Oct 21, 2013 by The Nation

Nigeria’s widest circulating newspaper

Youths attack acting governor

NEWS

Page 4

•‘He should address insecurity’

News Students to govt, ASUU: settle rift P6 Sports Enyeama makes progress at Lille P24 Business Currency in circulation drops P25 www.thenationonlineng.net

VOL. 8, NO. 2643 MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2013

TR UTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM TRUTH

N150.00

N342.8b ready for 40,093 PHCN workers’ severance pay

LL is set for the payment of severance packages to 40,093 Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) workers. Their names have been sent to the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation (OAGF) for payment, the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) has said.

By Akinola Ajibade, Energy Correspondent

The BPE, in a statement by its spokesman Chigbo Anichebe, said the action was line with the government’s commitment to settling the workers’ outstanding payment and ensuring the smooth take off of the PHCN’s successor companies.

It said N342.8billion had been released to the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation for the payment. Speaking at a forum in Abuja, BPE’s DirectorGeneral Benjamin Ezra Dikki said the figure represented payment to 84 per cent of the entire workforce of the former stateowned electricity giant.

Dikki, who was represented by the BPE’s Project Manager (PM), Electric Power Department, Mr. Amaechi Aloke, said of the six batches, the OAGF had confirmed the payment of three, totalling 26,899 persons. He said OAGF promised that two more batches (4 and 5) covering 11,716 workers Continued on page 4

Why Southwest National Dialogue meeting failed Alaafin, Olubadan, others: we were not invited By Emmanuel Oladesu and Bisi Oladele, Ibadan

ANY Yoruba leaders boycotted the interactive session organised by the Presidential Advisory Committee on National Dialogue in Akure, the Ondo State capital, because of their lack of faith in the process, it was learnt yesterday. Also, some stakeholders complained about lack of information on the meeting and the “short notice”, stressing that they needed more time to prepare their memoranda. Others said that their groups and associations were not invited by the committee headed by Dr. Femi Okunrounmu. The meeting, in the view of many, failed, as it was attended mainly by Ondo State stakeholders. Many political leaders from Ogun, Osun and Lagos states told our correspondent that they were still studying the process. They hope to submit memoranda at next month’s interactive meeting in Lagos. Some All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftains said they were waiting for their party’s position on the proposed conference before taking any action. The Interim Chairman of the APC in EkiContinued on page 4

•ST ARS ALL: From left: Star actress Peju Ogunmola, singer Sasha and veteran actor Peter Fatomilola —all Ekiti State indigenes— displaying their •STARS plaques and horsetails at the Ekiti State Cultural Ambassadors’ Awards in Ikogosi-Ekiti...at the weekend. STORY ON PAGE 8

Boko Haram shoots dead 19 in highway mayhem ST OR Y ON P AGE 4 STOR ORY PA

•Brig-Gen Olukolade

We’re pursuing the attackers, says military spokesman

•CITYBEATS P10 •SPORTS P24 •CEO P27 •ISSUES P32 •POLITICS P43 •MOTORING P45

THE NATION MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2013

NEWS

Getting •Left: President Goodluck Jonathan,Ondo State Governor Olusegun Mimiko, Kaduna State Governor Muktar Yero, Managing Director Niger Delta Power Holding, James Olotu and Leader, Yoruba Obas conflict Resolution Committe, Olugbo of Ugboland, Oba Obateru Akinruntan at the inauguration of the Omotosho power plants Phase 2 ...at the weekend.

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) is to get the private sector to inject funds into the rail system. Observers say the Public Private Partnership (PPP) may be the elixir for greater efficiency of the country’s rail system, writes ADEYINKA ADERIBIGBE

T • Nigerian Consul-General in New York, Ambassador Habib Habu; a member of staff of Nigerian Mission to the UN, Mr Emmanuel Okafor; Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN Usman Saki; Nigeria's Permanent Representative to the United Nations Prof. Joy Ogwu and the Defence Adviser, Permanent Mission of Nigeria to the Un Brig.-Gen. Lincoln Ogunewe at the inauguration of the defence section of the Permanent Mission of Nigeria to the UN in New York.

From left: Divisional Head, Product & Market Support, Keystone Bank, Mr. Sunny Obazee; Product Manager, Remittance, , Mr. Gbolahan Aminu and Marketing Executive, Anglophone West Africa, MoneyGram, Kofi Akyea during the MoneyGram Gear up for School 2013 Mini Library Donation to select primary schools in Benin City, Edo State

•From left: TV Presenter Frank Edoho; National President, Down Syndrome Foundation Nigeria Rose Mordi; Head, Quality Assurance and Training, Etisalat Nigeria Flora Ekundayo and Specialist, Social Media Support Andrew Enebeli during a charity football match organised for the Down Syndrome Awareness week, sponsored by Etisalat in Lagos.

HE Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) will tomorrow open a new investment window aimed at deepening its capacity to respond to the desire of Nigerians to modernise its operations and increase its passenger and freight haulage capacity. Members of the private sector will gather for a one-day Public-Private Stakeholders Workshop to get private funds for the use of the corporation. The workshop will take place at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja. In the last four years, there has been considerable commitment to get the trains working optimally, as government increases its yearly budgetary allocation. That the rot in the railway sub-sector should be frontally addressed is no gainsaying. Transportation experts said with a population of 170 million people, Nigeria can no longer continue to rely on a single mode of transportation. Over-reliance on road transportation, via the use of trucks and articulated vehicles, (for freights haulage) and buses, (whether mini, midi, or maxi), or private cars, for passenger transit, experts argued, have put more pressure on the roads, leading to the wearing of the roads, and has resulted in high rates of fatalities. Though the NRC has a very rich history dating back to the early part of the 20th century, having been introduced by the British colonial powers, in 1904, it fell out of favour as a preferred means of transportation in the 1950s as motorised vehicles, which became the new social symbol of affluence by the emerging crop of elite, took over, with government’s attention gradually shifting from the rails until the once booming sector became desolate. Successive administration paid not more than a passing attention to the train services with each, leaving it to continue to struggle for a breather. As at today, the two major rail lines; the western line - one that connects Lagos from the Bight of Benin to Nguru, in the northern part of Yobe State and the eastern line – that takes off from Port Harcourt in the Niger Delta, to Maiduguri in the north eastern state of Borno are almost prostrate, but for skeletal services on the western line. These two poorly maintained rail systems have 3,557 kilometres of 1,067mm of 3ft by 6in narrow gauge tracks. The resuscitative moves of successive administrations beginning from the late Gen. Sani Abacha have left but marginal improvement in the fortunes of the sector.

• Baraje

While Abacha invested about $500 million (N79 billion) on resuscitating the Lagos-Kano rail line, former President Olusegun Obasanjo also sunk $8.5 billion (N1.34 trillion) on the same Lagos-Kano line between 2000 and 2007, with no appreciable improvement in the services of the corporation. In the last four years, the Goodluck Jonathan administration has committed N104.9 billion into reviving the sector. The yearly budgetary allocation showed that in 2010, government allocated N31 billion from the supplementary appropriation bill for the construction of the Lagos-Ibadan standard gauge line to complement the N23.3 billion approved in 2009 for rail transportation; of this, N20.7 billion was reserved for capital projects, which included the rehabilitation of 120 coaches and wagons and the rehabilitation of the Ajaokuta-Warri line. In 2011, N29.6 billion was budgeted for the construction and rehabilitation of all existing rail tracks, out of which N5.5 billion was set aside for the completion of the construction of the Ajaokuta-Warri line. The sector got another N20.3 billion allocation in 2012; of which N16.3 billion was earmarked for capital expenditure. The allocation was targeted at rehabilitating the Jebba-Kano, PortHarcourt-Makurdi-Kaduna-KuruMaiduguri, and Zaria-Kaura Namoda rail tracks and the procurement and rehabilitation of rail wagons, coaches and tanker wagons. These measures, which have seen the rail sector gulp over N2 trillion in less than two decades, have merely translated as follows; two intra-city mass transit: 16 Lagos Mass Transit Trains Service (MTTS), which carries about 16,000 passengers daily and Kaduna Intracity Mass Transit, which offers 10 train service daily, moving about 10,000 and five inter-city passenger service, which includes: three shuttles of Lagos-Kano-Lagos (the third of which was inaugurated only in July), and runs thrice weekly, carrying 5,500 passengers; one LagosIlorin-Lagos route, which runs thrice per week, carries about 3,000 passengers; Offa-Kano-Offa train, once a week, moving about 2,000 passengers weekly, Minna-Kaduna-Minna, moving 3,500 commuters on its thrice per week shuttle and Kano-Nguru-Kano train which moves 1,000 passengers and 200 tonnes of luggage and parcels twice per week. On freight services, the corporation carries 3,000 tons of Lafarge Cement monthly between Lagos and Kano, 500 tons of Wheat for Nigeria Flour Mills between Lagos and Kano monthly, 3000 tons of track materials for constractors monthly, moving of 1,000 tons of NRC’s petroleum products between Lagos and Kano, while the excursion trains are also highly

THE NATION MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2013

NEWS

trains off the rotten tracks ‘

FACTS AND FIGURES We believe this N79b N1.34t N104.9b N20.3b PPP initiative will help in increasing our capacity and efficiency • Sijuwade

patronised, especially during festivities. Cumulatively, the trains, despite the huge investment, has been unable to maximise its mass transit potentials, carrying less than 200, 000 passengers in a country where over 70 percent of the 170 million people required a safe, reliable, comfortable and affordable means of transportation. If its potentials for passenger traffic has been less than desirable, its haulage capacity has been largely discomfiting until August, when its haulage sector resumed with the first cargo leaving the ICNL terminal in Apapa for Kaduna and Kano. A transport analyst, Abraham Johnson, said one of the reasons for the low patronage is the poor infrastructure with which the trains have continued to operate. According to him, the railway would remain unattractive and less patronised unless efforts are made to modernise its operations. “How can one explain that at this age, you would spend no less than 18 hours to commute between Lagos to Kano, when you can make same distance in less than one hour by air and about eight hours by road? No businessman, marketer or business executive who valued time would

‘

bear with such huge loss in man-hour. This is coupled with the fact that the trains are still running with old rickety coaches and wagons, imagine what would happen if any of those old engines break down on a desolate part of the country. With the growing cases of insecurity, the trains will continue to record low patronage until it improves its operations,” Johnson said. The Chairman of the NRC’s Board of Directors, Alhaji Abubakar Kawu Baraje, admitted some of these faults recently. Speaking at the flag-off of the third Lagos-Kano-Lagos service in July, Kawu said the NRC has been running on old rolling stocks of coaches, wagons, engines and all, which, he said, was due to the efficacy of the corporation’s engineering team. He added that the new stock being ordered for by the corporation are yet to arrive the country, adding that they may not be put to use until the modern gauge lines are in place. “For as long as these old stocks are still useable, we would continue to use them, rehabilitate our rail lines while we begin to work on the second phase of our development which was the provision of the standard gauge which would eventually take Nigeria to the next level where faster engines and modern coaches would be introduced,” Baraje said.

Amount spent regime on the Lagos-Kano rail track

N2t The amount spent on the sector in two decades

Amount spent by Obasanjo’s administration on the Lagos-Kano rail track

The amount spent by Jonathan on the railways

The amount allocated to the sector last year

N5.5b N20.3b N16.3b The amount set aside in 2011 for Ajaokuta-Warri line

The corporation, he said, planned to move away from the narrow gauge inherited from the colonial masters to the standard gauge, which would enable it to modernise its operations and provide modern train service to Nigerians yearning for a change. He however underscored the need to look beyond the government for the huge funding the railway required to enable it get to its destination. Corroborating his view, NRC’s chief executive, Prince Adeseyi Sijuwade, said the need for fresh funds outside the government informed the public private partnership option his management proffered to the government as the way out of the quagmire the corporation found itself, as it struggles to satisfy Nigerians’ yearnings and move to complement other modes of transportation. The PPP workshop is coming on the heels of an approval by President Jonathan earlier in April, and is meant to open the railway to private investors and seek their partnership in revamping of the sector. Sijuwade, an engineer, said the one-day capacity enhancement workshop is to ensure that the corporation continues its climb out of

The amount allocated to the sector last year

The amount for capital expenditure last year

the woods without being encumbered by lack of funds. He said though the Federal Government would continue to invest in the provision of the basic backbones necessary for the continuous operation of the services, the private investors would be encouraged to come on board with the provision of basic services in line with global best practices. According to him, the proposed PPP framework will introduce private funders to the National PPP framework and the overall concession plan as it concerns the corporation. The forum according to him would also afford the corporation’s transaction advisors to interact with key stakeholders and willing investors as well build private sector’s confidence in the NRC and the PPP process. Sijuwade said the workshop would be the foundation for effective financial intervention from the private sector for the ailing corporation. He said the workshop would equally afford the transaction advisors the opportunity to interact with General Electronics (GE) which has signed an MoU with the Federal Government to set up a locomotive assembly plant in the country as well as select potential providers to partner with the corporation for the build, maintain, operate and transfer (DBMOT) of ware-

housing for a suitable, safe and secured storage spaces for goods, the finance, supply, and operate (FSO) of modern loading and offloading facilities of goods, the finance, supply and jointly management of railway coaches with the NRC to enhance passenger carriage capacity and the finane, supply and joint management of wagons withb the corporation of wagons to enhance freight haulage capacity. Other areas, Sijuwade said, the workshop would address are the outsourcing of station remodeling and redevelopment and property and facility management and development. Other areas the corporation is addressing are the on-board cleaning of passenger trains, cleaning of major train stations, on-board catering, ticketing services and park and ride, especially for intra-city shuttle services. Sijuwade said the corporation under his watch has refurbished about 500 wagons and 120 coaches, while it procured 20 oil tank wagons last year. The corporation has also procured additional 20 oil tank wagons this year, procured and installed two 100 tons telescopic cranes at the Apapa port for trans-loading of containers, procured four 60 tons of overhead cranes, and three rail inspection vehicles. Also procured by the corporation five rail recovery vehicles, four CNR locomotives, six 68-seater modern coaches, which will be delivered in December, two set of Diesel Multiple Units (DMU) engine and three wheel lathe machine, which has been fully installed. He described the PPP as a step in the right direction, which would revitalise the rail transport system in the country. “While we are working to address the other areas of challenges, we believe this PPP initiative will help in increasing our capacity and efficiency and the delivery of better service to Nigerians,” Sijuwade said.

Abuja...Unfinished federal capital built on ‘stolen’ land Thirty-five years after, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja has come a long way, but as BBC’s Alex Preston found out during a visit to the city, it is far from the dream of those who conceptualised it.

HEN one of Nigeria’s long line of military rulers, General Olusegun Obasanjo, seized the land on which Abuja was to be built in the late 1970s, he could hardly have imagined that the city would remain unfinished 35 years on. Abuja has a makeshift, haphazard feel to it: A place of bureaucrats and building sites, its streets eerily empty after the buzz of Lagos or the enterprising bustle of Kano. It is one of the most expensive cities in Africa, and one of the most charmless. The skyline is dominated by the space-rocket spires of the National Christian Centre and the golden dome of the National Mosque, facing each other pugnaciously across a busy highway at the city’s centre. Its other striking landmark is the vast construction site of the Millennium Tower, which, if it is ever completed, will be Nigeria’s tallest building. The skyscraper was intended to mark Abuja’s 20th birthday in 2011. Now delayed until who-knowswhen, hugely over-budget and the subject of numerous official investi-

gations. All the people of Abuja have to show for the billions invested in the project are two stunted fingers of scaffold-clad concrete. I had been in Abuja for three days about two-and-a-half too many when my friend, Atta, a sociologist, picked me up from my hotel. We drove out towards Aso Rock, the monolith looming over the presidential palace. On either side of the road there are complexes of bulky, imposing mansions, most of them unfinished. Some had empty swimming pools; others had mock-Tudor timbering, but were windowless and often roofless. Atta told me that 65 per cent of the houses in these developments were uninhabited, put up only to launder Abuja’s dirty money. Like the Millennium Tower, these grandiose schemes are ruins before they are completed, bleak monuments to a city built by kleptocratic politicians on stolen land. We pulled off the Murtala Mohammed Highway at Mpape Junction, and immediately the road deteriorated.

“I am going to show you the real Abuja,” Atta told me, as his car struggled up a deeply-rutted dirt track. A warm wind from the desert to the north - the Harmattan - whipped clouds of red dust around us as we climbed through rocky scrubland into the hills. People began to appear on the streets - men carrying ancient Singer sewing machines, women balancing baskets on their heads. We entered a vast shanty-town of shacks with corrugated iron roofs, slums stacking to the horizon. Nissan minivans scuttled past they are called “One Chance” buses, as they barely stop on their manic journeys through these uncharted streets. Crowds thronged between skinny cows, beneath posters advertising beaming televangelists. Dance music blared out, interrupted by a muezzin’s call to prayer. Bright-eyed children kicked footballs about. This was the home of the Gwari people, the original inhabitants of the land where the capital was built. Hundreds of thousands of them

were summarily evicted in the 1970s, and now scrape a living in the hills. Abuja is itself a Gwari word and, although the city of generals and politicians below us had barely 700,000 inhabitants, two or three million people live in these shanty towns, many of them Gwari. The Gwari people continue to fight for compensation for the land wrested from them by the Obasanjo government, land now worth more per square kilometre than almost anywhere else in Africa. We got out and walked through the smoke and dust towards a row of shacks. In one of them, a woman knelt on the ground plucking a chicken, a man above her leaning on a makeshift bar. They were Frank and Mary, Gwari people in their thirties, children of one of the thousands of families originally evicted during the foundation of Abuja. The four of us sat in the shack sipping Fantas, staring out at the swarming life of the shanty town: Motorbikes and cattle and people, all of them through a veil of reddish dust. “I trained as an architect,” Frank told me. “I have an education. But I

do not have money, I don’t know the right people. So I work here with my sister. In Abuja, money defines everything.” I ask him about the empty mansions lining the roads into the city. “That is pseudo-Abuja, a false place. It’s unjust - we should be living in those houses. Instead…” He gestured to the squalid lean-to that jutted from the back of the bar. Mary looked up from her chicken. “Life here is difficult,” she says. “Often we can’t see across the street because of the smoke and dust. If it rains, you can’t move for the mud. But we pray hard.” Frank pulled out a CD. It was Fela Kuti’s Suffering and Smiling. “This,” Frank said, as the music coiled out from an ancient hi-fi, “is the compressed statement of Nigerian society. We suffer, but we smile. Nothing will change until we get angry, until we stop smiling.” A storm was coming in, red clouds rolling overhead and thunder crackling down the valleys. Frank and Mary stood waving to us, the music playing still, as we drove off down the hill, towards pseudo-Abuja.

THE NATION MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2013

NEWS Boko Haram shoots dead 19 in highway mayhem

•Catholic Knights of Saint Mulumba, Gwagwalada Sub-council, pose with the auxiliary Bishop of Abuja Diocese, Bishop Anselm Umoren during the inauguration of Fathers House at the St Luke’s Catholic Chaplaincy, University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Gwagwalada Abuja…yesterday PHOTO: NAN

N342.8b ready Continued from page 1

would be paid their entitlements next week. On union dues, the DG said that the OAGF had confirmed the remittance of N3bn to the two PHCN unions-the Senior Staff Association of Electricity and Allied Companies, (SSAEAC) and National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE), deducted from the PHCN workers’ benefits. Interest groups, such as the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), the Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO), the Senior Staff Association of Power Holding Company of Nigeria, among others, have protested against the late payment of the severance package of PHCN workers. Continued on page 57

USPECTED Boko Haram gunmen dressed in military uniform yesterday killed 19 people near Nigeria’s border with Cameroon in Borno State. A resident and a survivor, who confirmed the attack, said the motorcycle-riding gunmen armed with Kalashnikovs, blocked the highway near the town of Logumani, 30 kilometres from the border around 5:00 am. Besides shooting and hacking to death the 19 motorists, they also burnt three trucks, the witnesses said. “We have recovered 19 dead bodies from the scene of the attack by Boko Haram gunmen,” Musa Abur, leader of a civilian vigilante group in the area told French News Agency (AFP). “Five of the victims, who included two truck drivers and their assistants, were shot dead while the rest were slaughtered,” he said. He said the gunmen had attacked the border town of Gamboru Ngala near Logumani late on Friday but were repelled by soldiers and local vigilantes. A passenger who survived the attack gave a similar account.

From Gbade Ogunwale, Abuja

“We were asked to get out of our vehicles and lie face down by nine men dressed as soldiers who blocked the road around 5:00am,” the man who gave his name as Buba told AFP. “They shot dead five people and went about slaughtering 14 others before someone called them on the phone that soldiers were heading their way,” he said. “They abandoned the rest of us and sped into the bush on their motorcycles,” added Buba who was shot in the leg. The military authorities last night confirmed the attack. The Director of Army Public Relations, Brig. Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru, confirmed the attack last night. The Army spokesman, however, gave the casualty figure as four. According to him, the insurgents mounted a roadblock at a border town and intercepted a truck conveying foodstuff. “They killed four people on the spot. Our men went after them and killed a couple of them. Our men are still going after some of them that are on the run. Apprehending them is just a matter of time,” Gen. Attahiru.

Youths attack acting governor

•Senate President David Mark inaugurating the aircraft for the lifting of the October-December pilgrims to Israel, Rome and Greece in Abuja…on Saturday. With him are (from left) Chairman, Senate Committee on Police, Sen. Paulinus Igwe and Executive Secretary, Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission, Mr John-Kennedy Opara PHOTO: NAN

ITING “poor security provision”, among other reasons, hundreds of youths in Zamfara State attacked Acting Governor Sanusi Rikiji. Rikiji, Speaker of the House of Assembly, who is standing in for holidaying Governor Abdulaziz Yari, was attacked on Saturday in Birnin-Magajiin, headquarters of Birnin-Magaji Local Government Area of the state. Rikiji was in the area to condole with the families of three Fulani youths allegedly killed on Thursday by youths of Tudun-Kuya village in the local government.

The suspected killers were believed to be members of “the Fulani killer gangs’’ said to be terrorising villages in various parts of the state. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) gathered that the youths used stones and sticks on their visitors and it took the combined efforts of the police escort, the military and State Security Service (SSS), personnel who shot into the air to disperse the mob. Zamfara police has started investigation into the attack. Police spokesman Lawal Abdullahi, who described the incident as “unfortunate”, said Continued on page 57

Why Southwest National Dialogue meeting failed APC meets on National Conference, others

Continued from page 1

ti State, Chief Jide Awe, said that the perception of the process may have discouraged many from attending the meeting. He also said that the information about the meeting was not well circulated. Said Awe: “Are we duly invited? If people are not invited, how can they come? When I saw the discussion on the television, I wondered.” Former Southwest Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) leader Senator James Kolawole also complained about hour the meeting was organised. He said: “I was not invited. I did not get the information.” Afenifere chieftain Senator Ayo Fasanmi said the meeting was hasty, adding that it did not give room for extensive preparation. He said: “I have my reservations. I want to watch first. I want to watch, wait and see. I am not comfortable with the timing. I know Okunrounmu very well. He is handling a difficult task.” Our correspondent gathered that the pro-National Conference groups in the Southwest were still deliber-

HE All Progressives Congress (APC) will deliberate on the proposed national conference at its National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), tomorrow. The meeting, which will be presided over by the interim national chairman, Chief Bisi Akande, will also discuss the proposed national convention of the party, the harmonisation of state party structures and the party’s preparation for Anambra State governorship election. Expected at the meeting are the 11 APC governors, party leaders across the six zones and interim state chairmen. The dialogue proposed by President Goodluck Jonathan has generated controversy. Although many pro-democracy activists and leaders of ethnic nationalities have agitated for a Sover-

ating on the items to be included in their memoranda when the meeting took place. Sources close to the Yoruba Assembly chaired by Gen. Alani Akinrinade said that the group was still consulting with the stakeholders in the zone on their views on the conference. A member of the Assembly,

By Emmanuel Oladesu and Chris Oji, Enugu

eign National Conference (SNC), the President has restricted his proposal to a national dialogue, which will not be subjected to any referendum. Also, critics of the proposed dialogue have faulted the motivation and intention of the President, stressing that the timing is suspect. Following the announcement of the conference, some people started the unpopular agitation for the postponement of the 2015 general elections. Last week, the President cleared the air on the process. He said the report of the conference would be submitted to the National Assembly, although the members claimed that they were not consulted before the October 1 broadcast. Many critics have pointed out that

Mr. Ayo Afolabi, said: “Gen. Alani Akinrinade is not in the country. He is expected back this week. The time of the meeting was too close for us to submit any serious memoranda. The Yoruba Assembly has to consult, update materials so that we do not talk against the wish of the people.”

the legislators’ wish may now take precedence over the peoples’ wish, since a referendum is now tactically ruled out. The conference’s report, some also said, may end up in the dustbin as some forces opposed to the national question may influence the National Assembly to jettison popular recommendations or sacrifice them on the altar of the obviously difficult process of law making. APC leader Senator Bola Tinubu, who objected to the timing, described the conference as a “Greek gift” orchestrated to divert peoples’ attention from the President’s poor performance. Others said that President Jonathan suddenly changed his anti-national conference position to curry the favour of the people, and in the process of threading the populist path, he hopes to se-

Lagos APC leader Oba Olatunji Hamzat said: “Since we know that they are still coming to Lagos, we have decided to wait till they come.” A social critic, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said those who attended the Akure meeting and made presentations may have gotten wind of the meeting be-

Continued on page 57

fore the notice was sent out. He said: “Within that short time, no serious group and organisation would have been able to make any serious and meaningful presentation, if the group or association had not prepared for it. May be, before the announcement of the conference, some people had got the informa-

•Tinubu

tion.” First-class traditional rulers in Oyo State, including the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Continued on page 57

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

THE NATION MONDAY OCTOBER 20, 2013

NEWS

Plot against Amaechi is PDP’s ‘last desperate act’, says APC

HE All Progressives Congress (APC) has condemned the reported plot to abduct, blackmail and force Rivers State Governor Chibuike Amaechi to resign. The party called it the last desperate act of those who are bent on getting rid of the governor at all costs. In a statement in Lagos yesterday by its Interim National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, the party said that the plot, which was exposed by the Rivers Peoples Forum, should be taken very seriously, against the background of a similar occurrence in the past and the outcry by Amaechi that his life is in danger. The statement said: “Anyone who thinks this alarm by the Rivers Peoples Forum is outlandish should remem-

By Precious Igbonwelundu

ber what happened to then Anambra State Governor Chris Ngige, who was abducted and rough-handled in 2003 in what is undoubtedly the most egregious violation of democratic institutions in our history. “The instigators and perpetrators of the crisis in Rivers are keenly aware that they are running out of options. Their impeachment plan has been foiled by the take over of the legislative functions of the Rivers State House of Assembly by the the National Assembly. Their plan to declare a state of emergency in the state has also failed, against the lack of support for such act by the National Assembly. “This is the reason for this last desperate act by an

increasingly-desperate Presidency, which may not exclude a final solution. We are therefore, for the umpteenth time, calling on civil society and human rights organisations, opinion leaders and indeed all lovers of democracy and believers in constitutional rule to intervene to stop the runaway culture of impunity in Rivers State,” APC said it is instructive that a day after the Rivers Peoples Forum exposed the plot against Amaechi, the so-called chair of the PDP in Rivers, Felix Obuah, set out to prepare the grounds for the devilish plot when he called a press conference to deliver a harangue against Amaechi, whom he accused of “insulting and dragging the names of President Goodluck Jonathan and the First Lady, Dame Patience

Jonathan to the mud”. “There can be no better confirmation of the evil plot than this,” the party said. It also warned that the madness in Rivers State, which is being carried out under the watch of the Presidency, which has made the state’s Police Commissioner the de facto Governor with a clear instruction to neutralise the elected Governor, should not be seen as an isolated incident, but as a part of a grand plot and a test run for 2015. “As we have said before, the crisis in Rivers is being deliberately orchestrated to test the waters ahead of the 2015 elections, with the belief that if the perpetrators get away with the massive impunity in the state, it can then be extended to other states before 2015 to ensure that the polls will be every-

Jonathan to inaugurate NEITI team From John Ofikhenua, Abuja

•Alhaji Mohammed

thing but free, fair and transparent, and also to satisfy the yearnings of a President who is obsessed with winning reelection. “The daylight rape of democracy in Delta State on October 12 by those who prevented elections from holding, only to announce concocted results, is also part of this plot. The new strategy is to use security agencies, especially the police and the military, to undermine democracy. We have not seen the last of these dangerous games, hence the need for all to be vigilant,” APC said.

Glo parades 20 artistes in show

ATIONAL telecommunications operator, Globacomat the weekend dazzled Lagosians with entertainment unlimited as it paraded 20 top Nigerian and international artistes. It was at the opening of the 2013 Glo Laffta Fest tagged: Invasion LOL. The comedy show held at the Eko Hotel & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, featured four American comedians, Donnivin Jordan, Robert Powell, Deray Davis and Tony Roberts, two South African humour merchants, Ndumiso Lindi and David Kau, Uganda’s best comedian, Salvador and 13 Nigerian artistes consisting of two musicians and 11 comedians. The American foursome were full of praises to Globacom for bringing them to Nigeria and to Africa for the first time in their career, just as their South African and Ugandan counterparts expressed their gratitude to the telecommunications giant for providing a huge platform such as the Glo Laffta Fest for them to perform in Nigeria. Anchored by the hilarious Basketmouth, the Lagos edition of the show had Jimmy Jatt as the Dee Jay and the likes of the doyen of comedy, Alli Baba and Julius, the Genius Agwu performing alongside equally talented and resourceful hands like Okey Bakassi, Bovi, Buchi, Gandoki, Akpororo, Funny Bone, Senator and Osama. The show was spiced with music as Wande Coal and the legendary saxophonist, Lagbaja, thrilled the audience with their songs.

‘N20b spare parts smuggled’ By Toba Agboola

•Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi (second right); his Deputy Prof. Modupe Adelabu (second left); governor’s wife Bisi (third right); Deputy Speaker Chief Adetunji Orisalade (left) and Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Mr. Babajide Arowosafe at a thanksgiving service to mark the third anniversary of the Fayemi administration, in Ado-Ekiti...yesterday.

Jonathan has delivered, says PDP •Party hails President’s transformation agenda

HE Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has applauded President Goodluck Jonathan over the implementation of the Transformation Agenda, urging Nigerians to support the administration. The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Chief Olisa Metuh, in a statement, said the President has pursued his economic reforms, stressing that they have started yielding results. “We are indeed highly impressed that the reforms initiated by the President has started yielding very high dividends resulting in a massive leap in the nation’s economy which has also been acknowledged by the world community; the latest being the Fitch Ratings which affirmed Nigeria’s long-term foreign and local currency IDRs as well as senior unsecured bond and s`hort-term foreign currency IDR ratings respectively at ‘BB”s. The party noted that “it is heart-warming that at a time other economies of the world are having a downward trend, Nigeria’s economy on the other hand is experiencing

By Emmanuel Oladesu

stability and growth.” It listed some of the factors that led to the positive rating to include massive developments in the power, agriculture and road sectors as well as reforms in finance, commerce and industry. Particularly, the PDP praised the President for “initiating the New Automobile Industrial Policy Development which is focused on promoting investments in affordable madein- Nigerian vehicles” even as it “noted the conclusion of arrangements to kick-off passenger service on the Eastern railway route before the end of December.” “We are happy that the New Automobile Industry Policy is already yielding results. Direct foreign investments are already flowing in from leading vehicle manufacturers including Nissan and Stallion Group which have entered into an agreement with the Federal Government to establish auto plants in Nigeria’’.

Bi-Courtney sues FAAN, others for contempt

I-COURTNEY Aviation Services Limited (BASL), operators of the domestic terminal of the Murtala Muhammed Airport (MMA2), Ikeja, has asked the Federal High Court Lagos to commit three top officials of the Federal Airports Authority (FAAN) to jail for contempt of court.

PRESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan has reconstituted an Inter Ministerial Task Team (IMTT) to implement the Reports of Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI). The Secretary to the Federal Government of the Federation, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim announced this in Abuja at a dinner in honour of the International Chair of the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI), Clare Short. The President is expected to inaugurate the committee soon. Anyim, according to a statement by NEITI’s Director of Communications Orji Ogbonnaya Orji, explained that reconstitution was as a result of government’s decision to reintegrate the NEITI mandates into the country’s economic policy agenda.

By Precious Igbonwelundu

Bi-Courtney’s application followed the refusal of the officials, including its Managing Director, Mr. George Uriesi, to comply with the orders of Justice Jona Adah, in the suit restraining them from interfering with work on a fourstar hotel and conference

centre, which the plaintiff is developing at the airport. According to the application, others against whom Bi-Courtney wants the order of contempt made include FAAN; the authority’s Chief Security Officer, Col. C.L. Onalo and its General Manager, Public Affairs, Mr. Yakubu Dati. Bi-Courtney, according

to (Form 49) dated June 26, this year, claimed that the affected individuals willfully violated the order of the court, which restrained them and their representatives from “commencing, continuing and/or completing any actions or permitting the commencement, continuance and/or completion of any actions

in respect of taking over possession of and/or interfering with the Applicant’s possession of the Four Star Hotel and Conference Centre situate at the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal 2, Ikeja, pending the hearing and determination of the Applicant’s application for interlocutory injunction….”

ABOUT N20 billion worth of auto spare parts are smuggled into the country yearly, the Director General, Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Dr Joseph Odumodu has said. He added that only five percent of this figure can only be accounted for. Odumodu, who addressed the traders under the aegis of Auto Spare Parts and Machinery Dealers Association (ASPAMDA) at an awareness and sensitisation tour of their market in Lagos at the weekend, urged dealers of auto spare parts to take bolder steps by venturing into manufacturing so as to advance the country’s level of industrialisation.

Army engineers for US course From Chris Oji, Enugu

THE Nigerian Army is set to send a delegation from the Corps of Engineers to visit the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) later this month. The trip is to work out modalities for collaboration in flood management. The Commander, Corps of Engineers, Maj. Gen. F S Owonibi spoke at the CCE’s Third Quarter Conference held at 82 Division Dragon Officers’ Mess, Enugu. According to him, the delegation which, he would be leading will work out modalities with the USACE in dredging as well as discuss other issues. Among the issues to be discussed, Owonibi said, included courses and specialised trainings for their personnel.

THE NATION MONDAY OCTOBER 21, 2013

NEWS

N255m armoured car: Activists call for Oduah’s resignation

13 in ICPC custody over alleged visa scam THE Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has arrested 13 suspected visa fraudsters in Lagos. This was part of its war to improve the local business climate and transnational transactions by eliminating corruption-prone processes. A statement by the Resident Consultant (Media and Event), Mr Folu Olamiti, said the suspects were arrested in the last two weeks at various locations. It said the suspects were either caught using forged public documents, such as bank statements and letters from government agencies, or for aiding and abetting the production of same to procure visas at the Indian High Commission. “The latest arrests, last weekend, involved five suspects, three of who were involved in the production of fake documents to satisfy visa requirements, while a fourth was in possession of suspicious travel documents,” the statement said. The fifth suspect, a lady, was arrested for allegedly colluding with someone in India to procure a fake invitation letter from an Indian hospital.

HE Executive Director of the Africa Network for Environment and Economic Justice (ANEEJ), Rev. David Ugolor, has urged the Minister of Aviation, Princess Stella Oduah, to resign immediately, following the scandal that greeted the purchase of two cars worth N255 million for her official use. Also, a civil society group, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP), has urged President Goodluck Jonathan to sell the cars and spend its proceeds to settle the families of the victims of recent air crashes. In a statement by its Executive Director Adetokunbo Mumuni, SERAP suggested that another part of the funds should be for “a trust fund to jump-start genuine reform of the aviation industry.” Ugolor urged relevant authorities to probe the purchase of the cars. He said it was annoying

From Osagie Otabor, Benin

that the minister spent such money for her personal comfort at a time the country was faced with several problems and the government was claiming that there was no money. In a statement yesterday in Benin, the Edo State capital, the activist said the minister was insincere because she had told Nigerians during the National Assembly public hearing on the grounding of the Rivers State Government airplane that she did not control the operations of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). Ugolor said it was sad that the resources wasted on the cars should have been used to secure the Nigeria airspace. The activist advised President Goodluck Jonathan to check the excesses of his cabinet members, follow-

ing the emerging trend of their alleged financial mismanagement and undue interference in the operations of the agencies under their ministries. The statement reads: “The ANEEJ condemns the Minister of Aviation for the profligacy and alleged corrupt use of public funds to purchase two BMW armoured cars. It presents the minister as Janus, the Italian god of wine with double-faced, speaking with two mouths. “We are shocked at the level of provocative extravagance of Princess Stella Oduah, who described the two major air crashes, which occurred under her watchful eyes recently, as ‘inevitable acts of God’. “We deplore a situation where energy and resources, which ought to have been used to secure the Nigeria airspace, as being canvassed by all stakeholders, is being unwittingly deployed for self-service and preservation by the

minister. “Nigerians are obviously worried by an emerging trend where serving ministers financially strangulate and unduly interfere in the smooth operations and efficient running of agencies under their ministries. This scenario is also playing out between the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and the Ministry of Petroleum Resources without necessary checks by the Presidency or the National Assembly. It is detestable that the government keeps shielding these officials as sacred cows while corruption flourishes under their nose. “Now that the wind has blown open and the rot in the aviation sector exposed, we call on the Presidency and the National Assembly, which are statutorily charged with oversight duties, to bring all those involved in the car scandal to justice.”

A PROMINENT Lagosian, Pa Mojibola Oladisun Fashola, is dead. He died yesterday at 80. A statement on behalf of the family by the eldest daughter of the deceased, Mrs Abisola Olatunji, said funeral arrangements for the late Pa Fashola will be announced late. He is survived by children and grandchildren.

HE first batch of 805 pilgrims from this year’s Hajj in Saudi Arabia arrived the Lagos and Ilorin international airports aboard Med-View Airline yesterday. The Boeing B747 aircraft, which conveyed the 507 Osun State pilgrims, touched down at the Murtala Muhammed Airport (MMA), Ikeja, at 9am, while the 298 Ondo State pilgrims arrived the Ilorin Airport aboard a B767 aircraft at 5.30am. Buoyed by the success of the Hajj operation, the management of the airline said it would complete the conveyance of pilgrims allocated to it by the National Hajj Commission (NAHCON) at a record time. The airline said more flights would arrive today with Oyo and Ogun states’ pilgrims. A member of the Osun State House of Assembly who returned with the first batch, M. B. O Ibrahim, hailed Med-View for ensuring a hitch-free operation.

‘Church most organised’

By Kelvin Osa Okunbor

Mojibola Oladisun Fashola dies at 80

By Kelvin Osa Okunbor

From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

Arik Air launches 7th anniversary fares ARIK Air has launched a special sales promotion to celebrate its seventh anniversary. The promotion is valid on the airline’s long haul routes, such as LagosLondon Heathrow, LagosJohannesburg and LagosNew York. Guests travelling between Lagos and London would buy a return Economy class ticket for N41,990 and Business Class ticket from N355,139. A return Economy Class ticket on the Lagos-New York route starts from N97,062 while Business Class ticket on the route starts from N487,892. On the Lagos-Johannesburg route, a return Economy Class ticket starts from N38,437 and Business Class from N326,553. The fares are exclusive of all taxes and charges. The last ticket day is October 31. Outbound travel period is between October 14 and November 15.

Nigerian pilgrims arrive Lagos, Ilorin airports

•Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun (second right); Chairman, Ado/Odo Ota Local Government, Rotimi Rahman (right); Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works and Infrastructure, Kayode Ademolake (second left) and Managing Director, Central South Construction Company, Mgaret Xie, during a sensitisation visit on the construction of the 32-kilometre Sango-IjokoAgbado-Akute-Ojodu Road…yesterday

OUSE of Representatives Speaker Aminu Tambuwal has hailed the leadership of the Catholic church in Nigeria. He described the church as the most organised group in the country. The Speaker urged Nigerians to seek reasons for unity rather than those for divisions. He said there was no basis for ethnic or religious intolerance in the country. Tambuwal spoke at a thanksgiving mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, AdoEkiti, the Ekiti State capital, to end the centenary celebration of the Catholic faith in the state.

Save our future, students’ leaders urge Fed Govt, ASUU

TUDENT leaders from Akwa Ibom State yesterday urged the Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to save them from prolonged stay out of school. The students, under the aegis of Akwa Ibom Students Leaders’ Forum, in a statement in Abuja, said they were tired of staying at home. The statement was signed by 52 student leaders from within and outside the state. They are: the Vice President (Special Duties), National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Comrade Ubon Marcus; Saviour Ekpe, of the International Institute of Journalism (IIJ) Uyo; Comrade Joshua Akpan, of the University of Uyo and Comrade Uko Michael Ukpong, also of the University of Uyo, among others. The students called for a quick resolution of the Federal Government/ASUU impasse to prevent increased crimes in the country. They said: “The implication of this strike borders also on internal security, as crime rate will soar, because an

SSANU dissatisfied with Fed Govt over 2009 agreement

HE Senior Staff Association of Nigeria Universities (SSANU) yesterday decried the nonchalant attitude of the Federal Government on the 2009 agreement it signed with the union. The union said though it suspended its twoweek strike last week, the Federal Government was still paying a lip-service to its demands. The SSANU members yesterday held a congress at the Faculty of Arts of the University of Ibadan (UI). They directed their executives to convey their annoyance to the Federal Government through the union’s national executive in Abuja. The Chairman of the UI branch of the union, Comrade Wale Akinremi, presided over the conFrom Gbenga Omokhunu, Abuja

idle mind is the devil’s workshop. “We are not laying the blame for the current impasse. All we want is to go back to school and we want to do so as soon as possible. “We hereby appeal to ASUU and the Federal Government to kindly ensure that the strike is called off and students return to classes because we are tired of being idle. We do not intend to be students for ever.

From Tayo Johnson, Ibadan

gress. He urged the union’s members to be patient, assuring them that the union’s executives were working hard on the matter. Akinremi explained that SSANU’s executive suspended the strike because two of the major issues at stake were being attended to by the Federal Government. The issues, he said, are the subventions for the SSANU members and the payment of hazard allowance. According to him, the first had been released by the government and the second was being attended to.

“Think about our future; think about our families, which have suffered to send us through school, and the financial implication of our continued stay in school on their lean resources. We are tired of this strike. We want to go back to school.” The students regretted that the strike, which was called to improve the nation’s tertiary education, was having a negative impact on the students. They said: “While we salute the doggedness and resilience of ASUU towards ensuring that the 2009 agree-

ment is implemented by the Federal Government, we wish to remind both ASUU and the Federal Government that this strike is affecting us negatively. “ASUU embarked on the strike with the aim of achieving positive developments in the education sector, but with the prolonged strike, coupled with the Federal Government’s and ASUU’s uncompromising stance, the reverse is the case. “ASUU has accused the Federal Government of insincerity in implementing the 2009 agreement, while

the Federal Government has accused ASUU of making unrealistic demands. “We are hereby calling on both parties to consider the hardship imposed on us due to this strike. As goes the saying that when two elephants fight, the grasses suffer, we, the students, are the casualties in this case. “There are some selfsponsored students who make a living through small businesses, like selling recharge cards on campus and other business ventures. But with this strike, economic activities have been paralysed for such students. The question is: How will they survive? “Additionally, while the strike is ongoing, we are growing older without commensurate academic attainment but the age limit for employment is not adjusting to reflect strike. “In fact, most companies do not employ any person who is above 25 years as a fresh graduate. Is this not a ploy to give our colleagues in private universities and those studying abroad undue advantage over us? What wrong have we done in attending public universities?”

THE NATION MONDAY OCTOBER 21, 2013

NEWS

Jonathan, Fayemi, Mimiko, ARG mourn Omojola

RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan, Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi and his Ondo State counterpart, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, have described the death of the late pro-democracy activist, Dr. Oluwide Omojola, as “a big loss”. The late Omojola slumped and died in his hotel room in Akure, the Ondo State capital, last Friday. In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Dr. Reuben Abati, the President yesterday commiserated with the government and people of Ondo State. He described the deceased “as a patriot and indefatigable advocate of good governance, who dedicated his life to the pursuit of social justice and a better life for others”. Jonathan said the late Omojola was faithful to the cause of justice, equity and progress for all Nigerians till his death. He urged people to emulate the late Omojola’s “exemplary dedication and patriotism, which he showed in journeying to Akure to make a submission on the coming national conference at the advanced age of 75”. Jonathan said the late Omojola’s associates can honour his memory by ensuring the success of the proposed national conference, “which the deceased was committed to”. He prayed for the repose of the late Omojola’s soul. In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Olayinka Oyebode, Fayemi described the late Omojola as one of the champions of Nigeria’s democracy. He said the late Omojola stood out among patriotic Nigerians, “who worked tirelessly to chase the military usurpers out of power”. Fayemi described the late Omojola as a dogged fighter, whose commitment to revolutionary change in the country was unparalleled.

Obaigbena for Army lecture From Tayo Johnson, Ibadan

•Nigerians urged to emulate activist From Augustine Ehikioya, Abuja

He said the deceased pursued the cause he believed in and encouraged younger people to join the struggle to enthrone democracy. Fayemi said the late Omojola inspired him and other activists “in the heat of the battle” to revalidate the result of the June 12, 1993, election. He said: “Baba played a prominent role in the struggle to revalidate the result of the June 12, 1993, election won by the late Chief MKO Abiola. He was everywhere in the streets - at press conferences and meetings - to demand the return of the people’s mandate. “This great man further showed the stuff he was made of during the dark days of the Abacha junta. He led street protests in Lagos and other cities, demanding a return to democracy. “After democracy was restored, the late Baba Omojola kept up the struggle to save the common man from the anti-people policies of the successive administrations. His death has depleted the ranks of committed democrats and selfless patriots, who toiled to give us the democracy we all now enjoy.” He described the late Omojola as a “committed, bold and resourceful human rights crusader and nationalist”. In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Eni Akinsola, Mimiko said the late Omojola’s death was “an unfortunate departure from the fast depleting tribe of genuine rights activists and nationalists with conscience”. He said: “The late Baba Omojola represented the best of the genera-

tion of human and political rights activists, who never compromised in the face of serial treachery and consistent oppression of the ruling class. “He was dogged, committed, resourceful and unwavering. His was a life lived in moral decency, material modesty and social and political relevance. He was brave, bold, strong and reliable. He will be sorely missed.” Mimiko urged the deceased’s family to be consoled by their patriarch’s legacies. A pan-Yoruba group, Afenifere Renewal Group (ARG), also commiserated with Nigerians on Omojola’s death. In a statement yesterday, the group said: “It was with hearts filled with grief that we received and confirmed the demise of Baba Omojola, our brother and compatriot in the struggle for the liberation of the common man in Nigeria. “Though not a rich man, Baba was philanthropic in his life time. He gave all he had to humanity. He shared the little he had to promote the cause and wellbeing of the under privileged. Baba was a sage of a peculiar ‘ORDER’, which made the development of man the centre of his life struggle. “As a rare gem among freedom fighters, we know his position will surely be difficult to fill at this crucial time in our national history. Alas! He died after presenting a powerful paper in Akure on a Sovereign National Conference (SNC) for Nigeria. We will miss you Baba; the Yoruba Nation will miss you, but our consolation lies in the fact that you did not live a wasted life. We pray that your

•The late Pa Omojola

soul will rest in perfect peace. Adieu Baba!” Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker Adeyemi Ikuforiji said: “The bitter news of Baba Omojola’s death come to me and my colleagues at the Lagos Assembly as a great shock, which we still find hard to believe. “Considering his immense contributions to charting a course forward for our troubled country, it is saddening that we lost him at this time, when more of his like are needed to help salvage the nation from imminent collapse. “It is on record that he was among the first proponents of a Sovereign National Conference (SNC) in Nigeria. It is sad and ironic that his passing to the great beyond happened in Akure, where he had gone to present a proposal on the way forward at the inaugural sitting of the Presidential Advisory Committee on the National Conference on behalf of the Pro-National Conference Organisation (PRONACO), which he co-founded with some notable Nigerians some years ago. “Notwithstanding the fact that we have lost Baba Omojola to the cold hands of death, he will be remembered as one of the most patriotic and foremost fighters for the emancipation of our country. He shall be sorely missed.”

•Fashola (right), condoling with Odunsi’s widow, Dr. Yewande, and son, Akin (left)... yesterday.

Four die, 14 injured in Ondo road accident

OUR people died in a road accident at Igbara Oke, Ifedore Local Government Area of Ondo State, at the weekend. It involved an 18-seater Mazda bus marked Lagos KSF 706 XF and a Honda Accord Saloon numbered AA239GBH. Fourteen people were injured. The Officer-in-charge of Field Operations, Ondo Sector Command of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), Mr. Joseph Ojerinde, said the accident, which occurred around 6:30pm on Saturday, was caused by one of the drivers’ carelessness. He said: “Immediately we were informed about the accident, our men moved to the scene. We were told that the Honda Accord car dangerously overtook a vehicle and collided

•Presidential motorcade rescues accident victims From Damisi Ojo, Akure

with the Mazda bus, which was coming from the opposite direction.” Ojerinde said 22 people, comprising 14 males, four females and four children, were involved in the accident. He said four men died, adding that their bodies were deposited at the mortuary of the State Specialist Hospital in Akure. The injured were taken to the General Hospitals in Igbara Oke and IlaraMokin. Yesterday, the advance team of President Goodluck Jonathan’s entourage, which was returning to Abuja from Ado-Ekiti, the Ekiti State capital, rescued accident victims on

the Lokoja-Abuja highway. The accident occurred at Okpu, after Lokoja. A Nissan Almera car marked AH 47 KAA and a Honda Accord car (Baby Boy) numbered BG945BWR collided. The 11 passengers in both cars sustained varying degrees of injury. The accident occurred a few minutes before the presidential motorcade got to the scene. The security/ medical team in the convoy rescued victims trapped in the cars. The front passenger seat of the Nissan car was axed to rescue a middle-aged woman. Dr. Aliyu Usman of the State House Clinic and two nurses gave first aid treatment to the victims.

Officers of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), led by Mohammed Haruna, got to the scene about 30 minutes into the rescue operation. The victims were taken to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Lokoja, in an FRSC rescue van. An eye witness, Aliyu Sadiq, said the accident was caused by overspeeding, dangerous driving and the poor state of the road. Sadiq urged the Federal Government to expedite work on the dualisation of the Lokoja-Abuja highway. The eye witness, who is a commercial bus driver, said he plied the road on a daily basis, adding that “there is a hardly a day that an accident is not recorded on the road”.

HE Nigerian Army will today begin a week long CivilMilitary Affairs seminar at the auditorium of the 2 Division, Adekunle Fajuyi Cantonment, Ojoo in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital. The seminar, tagged: Consolidating Civil-Military Relations for Improved National Security, will feature papers on Capacity building for effective civil-military relations: the role of civil society organisations, to be delivered by Dr. Lanre Adebayo; Cordial civil-military relations as a tool for safeguarding human rights; as well as Early preparation for retirement: Challenges and prospects, to be presented by Maj. Gen. M.A. Efeovbokhan (rtd). ThisDay Chairman/Editor-inChief Prince Nduka Obaigbena is one of the resource persons. Dr. Jibril Ibrahim of the Centre for Democracy and Development and the Oyo State General-Secretary of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) will speak at the seminar. Oyo State Governor Abiola Ajimobi is the guest of honour.

Fayemi urges Christians to participate in politics

KITI State Governor Kayode Fayemi yesterday renewed his call on Christians to play active roles in politics. He spoke at the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Life Fountain Parish, Ado-Ekiti, at the thanksgiving service marking his administration’s third anniversary. Fayemi said politics, contrary to a popular belief, is not a dirty game and believers should not leave it to charlatans. Acknowledging God’s faithfulness to his administration, he said the peace and development witnessed in the state were made possible by God, who answered his prayers on his vision to renew Ekiti. Fayemi said: “The Lord has been good to us as a state and government. We thank Him for the peace and development the state is witnessing and for the future that is hopeful. It is only prayers that can give us ceaseless renewal and all we want our state to become. We all have a duty to serve God wherever we are. Service to the people must be our priority and children of God must engage in politics, so that charlatans do not take the saddle of power. “That is the message we are passing across. Politics is not a dirty game. We should not leave it to those who want to use it to line their pockets.” In his sermon, the Provincial Pastor of the church, Ola Adejubee, urged Christians to always give thanks to God. He said God uses thankful people to positively impact their society, adding that God had been using every citizen, and not only the government, to transform Ekiti in the last three years. Pastor Adejubee hailed Fayemi’s servant-leadership style, urging people to emulate the governor’s “diligent” attitude. At the event were the governor’s wife, Erelu Bisi; Deputy Governor Modupe Adelabu; top government officials; members of House of Assembly and National Assembly and party loyalists. The service was followed by a state luncheon at the Adetiloye Hall of the Trade Fair in Ado-Ekiti, with a grand performance by one of the state’s cultural ambassadors, Michael Omoshilade, popularly called Micho Ade.

THE NATION MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2013

NEWS Demolition: Perm sec, prisons boss clash in Ibadan From Bisi Oladele, Ibadan

BLOODY clash almost attended the weekly environmental sanitation monitored by officials of the Oyo State Ministry of the Environment and Habitat in Ibadan, the state capital. It was learnt that men of the Nigerian Prisons Service, Agodi, Ibadan, at the order of their boss, shot sporadically into the air to prevent environmental officials, led by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mrs. Modupe Omonigbehin, from demolishing illegal structures in front of the prison. A source said the prisons’ boss had, in the past, solicited the ministry’s help in removing illegal structures erected by vehicle spare parts sellers to prevent security breach and the ministry always obliged. It was learnt that their robust relationship collapsed on October 3, when the ministry’s officials’ attempt to remove two illegal structures by the prison gate were resisted by the prisons’ boss and his men. A source said the prisons’ boss insulted the civil servants and urged his men, who were armed, to stop them. It is believed that the prisons officials have interest in the structures. The source said: “The security details of the prisons swooped on the ministry officials in a wild manner, but the permanent secretary appealed for calm and sought audience with their boss. “Unfortunately, the prisons boss, after heaping insults on them, ordered all members of the team, except the PS and two others, to disappear within two minutes. Irked by the development, the PS insisted that her team members should stay in the market because they were carrying out their statutory duties. So the prisons’ boss ordered his men to shoot sporadically. They shot six times into the air to scare away the civil servants.” It was gathered that the ministry reported the case to the governor. When contacted, Mrs. Omonigbehin said the case was being handled by higher government authorities. Spokesman of the Nigerian Prisons Service (NPS), Oyo Command, Anjorin Olanrewaju, said it was an “avoided face-off” caused by lack of communication. He said: “The shots were not fired to scare them but to scare hoodlums from gathering around the prison to prevent security lapses.”

•Ajimobi (second left); Oba Adeyemi (second right); the Onijeru of Ijeru, Oba Sunday Oladapo (right), and the Aresaadu of Iresaadu, Oba Jimoh Oloyede ...at the weekend.

Alaafin, others hail Ajimobi on performance

HE Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, has hailed the achievements of the Governor Abiola Ajimobi administration, describing them as “unprecedented”. He said the administration had transformed education, health and security as well as built/repaired roads. The Alaafin spoke at the weekend when he led some traditional rulers and chiefs on a Sallah visit to the governor in his office in Ibadan, the state capital.

He said the administration ended violence and brigandage in the state, thus bringing relief to residents, who used to live in fear. Oba Adeyemi noted with satisfaction the “rare vigour” with which Ajimobi had been pursuing his administration’s transformation and repositioning agenda, adding that all parts of the state were feeling the administration’s impact. Urging the people to cooperate with the Ajimobi administration, he advised members of the opposition to desist from destructive criti-

cisms of “a performing government” in the interest of the state. Ajimobi said his administration would continue to execute projects that have direct impacts on the people. He said the essence of governance was to make life better for the masses by meeting their needs and aspirations, adding that his administration had continued to vigorously pursue this. The governor said his administration would continue to entertain constructive criticisms from the op-

Fashola, Tinubu, Jakande, others honour APC chieftain Odunsi

AGOS State Governor Babatunde Fashola; National Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Asiwaju Bola Tinubu; his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu; and the first Civilian Governor of Lagos State, Alhaji Lateef Jakande, at the weekend paid their last respects to a leader of the APC in Surulere, the late Alhaji Babatunde Odunsi. Fashola, who was one of the earliest callers at the Surulere home of the deceased on Saturday, later joined others at the Janazah prayers held at the Wahab Folawiyo Central Mosque, Surulere. Odunsi’s remains were interred at the Vaults and Gardens in Ikoyi after the traditional dust-to-dust rites was performed by the deceased’s family, who were sup-

ported by the late politician’s associates, including Fashola, Tinubu and lawmakers from the National and Lagos House of Assemblies, among others. The late Odunsi (82) joined politics in 1957. He was a founding member of several progressive platforms, including the Action Congress (AC); Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN); Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) and the APC. Fashola described the late Odunsi as “a foremost organiser, coordinator, loyal party man and thorough grassroots mobiliser”, who would be sorely missed. Condoling with the deceased’s family, party faithful and the people of Lagos State, he prayed Almighty Allah to admit the departed’s soul into Al-Jannah Firdaus. The APC in Lagos Central Sena-

torial District yesterday described Odunsi’s death as a loss to the progressive family. In a statement by its leader, Tajudeen Olusi, it said the deceased was a committed Awoist and disciplined politician, whose loyalty to the APC was never doubted. It said the late Odunsi would always be remembered as one of the architects of Nigeria’s democracy. APC said: “The late Odunsi was a loyal party man, who, despite his age, always participated in activities. He gave his all to the party and was always ready to contribute to the growth of the state and nation. “He was a thoroughbred democrat, detribalised Nigerian and a firm believer in the rule of law, justice and equity. We will miss his role in the party. May Allah grant him eternal rest in His bosom.”

Ekiti honours Sasha, Jimoh Aliu, Micho Ade, 11 others

HE first phase of the redeveloped Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort in Ekiti State was inaugurated on Saturday, almost 10 years after it was abandoned. The ceremony featured the public presentation of Governor Kayode Fayemi’s latest book, “Regaining the Legacy” and the decoration of Ekiti Cultural Ambassadors. Fourteen Ekiti indigenes, who have distinguished themselves in various aspects of arts, were decorated as Culture Ambassadors. They include Yinka Ayefele, Peter Fatomilola, Jimoh Aliu, Prof. Ojo Bakare, Elemure Ogunyemi, Peju Ogunmola and Akin Onipede. Others are Michael Omoshinlade (Micho Ade), Funmi Ajila, Moji Olaiya, Odunlade Adekola, Foluke Daramola, Akinade Ibuoye (Gaze Baba) and Yetunde Ibrahim, popularly known as Sasha.It was attended by a crowd of tourists and residents. Fayemi said the redevelopment was done because his government “cannot allow the God-given en-

•Fayemi opens Ikogosi, presents book dowment to be a waste”. Restating his administration’s commitment to developing tourism, he said the second phase of the redevelopment would involve the introduction of a games reserve, which would occupy about 10,000 hectares of land; a three- star hotel; a golf course and apartments, among others. Fayemi’s book was on his plans for the people, his perception about governance and his experience as a governor. He said he published the book to broaden his audience “beyond those present at the various forums where the papers were delivered”. Urging Nigerians to work together to surmount the nation’s challenges, the governor said: “We are committed to building a society in which no one is left behind because we recognise that, as the late Martin Luther King said, ‘we are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of des-

‘I dream of a time when future generations will bless our memories long after we are no more, because with the help of God, we did well to guide our society along the path of peace and sustainable development’ tiny’. Whatever affects one directly affects all indirectly. “I dream of a time when future generations will bless our memories long after we are no more, because with the help of God, we did well to guide our society along the path of peace and sustainable development.” The reviewer of the book and Chairman, The Nation Editorial Board, Sam Omatseye, said whoever read Fayemi’s book, Out of the Shadows,

would not be surprised at the tremendous change made by the governor in Ekiti in the last three years. Omatseye said Fayemi fought out of the shadow for a legacy that speaks to the endurance of memories; adding that the governor has not stopped letting people know “that he has done good”, especially with the various projects carried out by his administration. Former Governor Niyi Adebayo said his administration, between 1999 and 2003, renovated part of the resort, but could not complete it because it was “manipulated out of office”. Adebayo said there was need for Ekiti people to re-elect Fayemi to enable him complete and sustain ongoing projects. Speaking on behalf of the Ikogosi community, Mr. Aaron Adeniji said the redevelopment of the resort has given “a pass mark to this administration, credit to the governor and distinction to God”. Adeniji described Fayemi as a true progressive.

position to improve on its performance. He hailed the traditional rulers for their support, which he said made his administration’s achievements possible. Ajimobi said: “Oyo is one of the most difficult states to govern, but with the help of God, the support of the people and the cooperation of the traditional rulers, we have been able to achieve this feat and improve the state. The monarchs prayed for Ajimobi and his administration.

Educationist: schools’ merger’ll improve education From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

RETIRED education planner, Dr. Modupe Fagbulu (87), has hailed the reclassification of public schools in Osun State by the Governor Rauf Aregbesola administration. He said late Chief Obafemi Awolowo did the same when he was the premier of the old Western Region. Speaking with reporters in Ilesa, Osun State, the educationist said when it was clear that some schools were not viable to operate alone, he recommended the merging of some schools for efficiency and optimal performance. He said the late Awolowo achieved a lot in education because of the reclassification of schools, adding that the policy should be replicated across the country. Fagbulu said the policy was aimed at restoring the lost glory of public primary and secondary schools, which he described as a crucial foundation for any child. He said: “I stand to be corrected that all public schools in the country are owned by the government and not by anybody or organisation, in as much as they are being financed by public fund. So, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) should understand that the government took over the ownership of schools a long time ago. “I was involved in the handing over of schools to the government because, at that time, some issues came up that necessitated that. It was as it is now. The schools received grants from the government after three years of running the schools on their own. “In the fourth year, after they might have met all conditions set by the government, they applied for this grant, from which teachers’ salary was paid. But many of them were owing teachers and they did not use all the fund allocated for running the schools. So at a stage, the government resolved to take over the schools from them, leaving the names because name was not important and the government concerned about teaching.”

THE NATION MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2013

NEWS Carrington hails Nigeria’s election into UN body

FORMER United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Walter Carrington, has hailed Nigeria’s election as a United Nations (UN) Security Council non-permanent member. Carrington, who was a torn in the flesh of the late General Sani Abacha-led military junta, addressed reporters yesterday at the Ilorin International Airport. The ex-envoy is in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, to deliver the 29th convocation lecture of the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) today. Carrington was optimistic that Nigeria’s membership of the Security Council on a non-permanent basis would make the country become a progressive voice on the international scene. He said: “It is a good thing. When I was the US Ambassador in the early

From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

1990s, Nigeria was also a member of the Security Council. So, I think Nigeria, being the giant of Africa, ought to be on the world stage. I think it is a good thing. “There are very able Nigerians who are involved in foreign affairs and who know the rules well. I am very hopeful that Nigeria would be a very progressive voice in the international scene.” UNILORIN Vice Chancellor, Prof Abdulganiyu Ambali, described the arrival of the former U.S ambassador as a welcome back home. Prof Ambali said: “We are all excited. He’s been part of us in Nigeria for a while. He had a break and he’s now back home. We are very excited to see him and we look forward to tomorrow’s (today’s) convocation.”

Ogun begins construction of 32km road

GUN State Governor Ibikunle Amosun, has assured residents that the construction of the all-important Sango-IjokoAkute-Ojodu road will begin today. He said men and materials had been mobilised to the site for the take-off of construction of the 32km highway. The governor spoke yesterday during his sensitisation visit to Ijoko, Agbado, Akute and Ojodu on the commencement of the project. He said the strategic highway, which cuts across Ota, Ijoko, Agbado as well as Abule Ekun, Akute and Ojodu, would include two bridges and three fly-overs. The governor said compensation was ready for owners of houses and shops that would give way for the six-lane road. Amosun assured shop owners that ultra-modern shopping malls would be built and payment for their

Kogi denies plot to impeach deputy governor From Muhammad Bashir, Lokoja

HE leadership of the Kogi State House of Assembly has denied receiving any petition against Deputy Governor Yomi Awoniyi for allegedly misappropriating the money donated to flood victims in the state. Addressing reporters in Lokoja, the state capital, Majority Leader Yakubu Yunusa said the Assembly was not aware of any report on the misappropriation of funds on last year’s floods in the state. An online report had said the Assembly was probing the deputy governor following a petition it received on the matter. Yunusa warned those posting reports on the Assembly on line to desist forthwith.

•Amosun

acquisition would be made over a period of time. He called for the co-operation of residents. He urged the construction firm, Central South Construction Company, to complete the project in a record time.

•Carrington (middle) with his wife, Arese, and Prof Ambali...yesterday

Eight killed in Plateau cholera outbreak

EDICAL authorities in Plateau State have confirmed an outbreak of cholera in Namu village in the Qua’pan Local Government Area. Namu, a village at the Plateau and Nasarawa states’ boundary, hosts internally displaced persons (IDPs) following the violent crisis which broke out in the Obi Local Government Area of Nasarawa State. “Yes, there has been an outbreak of cholera in Namu village, eight people have been killed while 61 others have been hospitalised,” the Plateau State Epidemiologist, Dr Raymond Yuryit, said yesterday in Namu. Yuryit spoke when he received Alhaji Alhassan Barde, the Executive Secretary of the Plateau State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), who was on an assessment of the situation.

•61 in hospital He said those hospitalised had been diagnosed with the disease and admitted into various health centres. Juryit attributed the outbreak to overcrowding, dirty environment and the consumption of unhygienic food and water. He described cholera as a “deadly disease” which could kill “within the shortest possible time because it dehydrates the victim, leading to severe gastro-intestinal impact”. The medical expert said the Namu victims suffered chronic diarrhoea and vomiting, adding that many had been hit by the disease before the government intervened. The specialist said the epidemic was not altogether a surprise because the area had lots of internally displaced persons from Na-

sarawa State, a development that put much pressure on the environment and potable water. Yuryit said: “But we are happy that the situation is already under control.” The epidemiologist explained that he had advised health workers in private and government health centres on how to avert a recurrence of the ailment and how to manage the situation, if it arose. He thanked the Plateau and Nasarawa states’ Governments for their quick response to the report, hailing the SEMAs for their support. The epidemiologist advised governments at all levels to ensure that the monthly sanitation was taken more seriously, especially in rural areas, to ensure good hygiene for rural dwellers. Juryit also appealed to the

government to provide potable water to rural dwellers, adding that dirty water was the main cause of the epidemic. He advised the residents to promptly report any case of diarrhoea or vomiting to the nearest health centre. According to him, a quick action could minimise casualty rates. Barde said the quick intervention of the agency was part of its statutory mandate. He promised to always offer quick assistance to areas in need. The SEMA chief said the agency intervened to prevent the disease from spreading to other parts of the state. Barde urged relevant agencies to assist in the management of disaster cases. He thanked the Nasarawa State Government for donating drugs, which would be distributed to various health centres.

Kwara carnival of death must end, says Belgore

CHIEFTAIN of the All Progressives Party (APC) in Kwara State, Mr Mohammed Dele Belgore (SAN), has called for an end to the deaths that accompanied the distribution of annual gifts to people in the Ilorin home of the Sarakis. Scores of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) members died on last Eid-el-Kabir day in a stampede as they queued to collect Sallah gifts. Belgore, who was the governorship candidate of the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in the 2011 election Kwara State, said the incident had become a recurring decimal in the state. He urged the police to investigate the matter and bring those found culpable to justice. In a statement yesterday in Ilorin, the state capital, by his media aide, Rafiu Ajakaye, the frontline lawyer noted that the mysterious deaths had occurred in 2010, 2011 and this year. The statement reads: “We commiserate with the families and friends of our compatriots who died in the unfortunate incident at the Ile Loke House of the Sarakis a few days ago. May God Almighty bless the souls of the departed. “This carnival of death, disguised over the years as some political philanthropy, must

Ex-Rep, others urge Presidency to probe deaths

FORMER member of the House of Representatives, Bashiru O. Bolarinwa, has urged the Presidency and security agencies to probe the cause of the death of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) members during the distribution of Eidel-Kabir gifts in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, last Tuesday. Bolarinwa, who was a PDP governorship aspirant in 2011, expressed sadness over the incident. In a statement, the All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain said: “I am very sad at the stampede and the resultant deaths that happened on Wednesday night. Honestly, I do not know what is wrong with our people, because what happened should be the third incident of that type in which many people died. It is unfortunate that people are yet to learn from the experience. “It appears to be a game plan of the Saraki family because they have succeeded in impoverishing these people and made them to come to them from time to time for pittance. “But I think that on the whole, what had been happening in the past was enough to teach our people a lesson and give them the direction on what to do. “I join several people who said this incident should be probed by the Federal Government. But I hope and pray that something positive should come out of it. From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

end! “We condemn what has almost become an annual ritual, where dozens die queuing to collect amala and ewedu, N50 notes and five yards of ankara under the guise of political philanthropy. For the record, these deaths were the third in a space of four years! These occurred in 2010, 2011 and 2013. Worst still, every time this happened the government and the PDP played down the cas-

ualty figures and did nothing more than issue ready-made statements to commiserate with the families of the dead; it did nothing to tackle the cause of the cycle of deaths in the coming year. “Conservative estimates said 47 persons were confirmed dead in this year’s carnival of death alone! Counted together, it is safe to say hundreds of Kwarans have been lost to this practice. “In 2011, when dozens died collecting these Greek gifts,

From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

“What is important is for our people to learn from what has been happening and to take precautions; that is the most important thing. If something had happened and this was the third time, I think that is enough to teach them lessons.” Also, a group, Kwara Change Initiative, said: “We call on the National Security Adviser (NSA) to the President, the Chief of Staff to the President and the police to institute a probe on this heinous crime that the power bloc sought to keep under wrap. The perpetrators are not far-fetched.” In a statement, the group’s Organising Secretary, Adewale Adefila, said: “The ugly incident of October 16, where scores of Nigerians died in a rather controversial manner at the Iloffa Road, GRA home of Dr. Bukola Saraki, must be given the desired attention by relevant authorities, going by the number of causalities and the frequency of occurrence. “Since it has become an annual ritual that people must die in this controversial manner, when their hosts claimed that they were giving them gifts; it only behoves relevant authorities to declare Bukola Saraki’s house and campaign office a disaster zone and the people be made to stay off (the areas) to preserve the sacredness of human lives.” our party, in a letter dated May 31, 2011, requested Governor Abdulfattah Ahmed to investigate the matter and put in place measures to ensure it never happened again. We heard nothing after this. Here we are again! For how long can anyone continue to waste precious lives in the guise of whatever philanthropy? It has to stop! “Rather than continue this demeaning practice of queuing people up for whatever gift, the alternative is to set up a foundation to assist people to

outlive the poverty that made them to queue for food, which costs no more than N100. “This tragedy must not go without being investigated and the culprits punished. This cycle of deaths must stop. Innocent lives must not continue to be exploited for political gain. We call on the Nigerian Police, the National Human Rights Commission and other relevant agencies to investigate this annual tragedy and pass their findings to the appropriate bodies for further steps. Enough is enough!”

THE NATION MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2013

CITYBEATS SON chief decries smuggling T HE Director General, Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) , Dr Joseph Odumodu, has said about N20 billion worth of auto spares are smuggled into the country every year, adding that only five percent of the figure can only be accounted for. Odumodu, who addressed some traders under the aegis of Auto Spare Parts and Machinery Dealers Association (ASPAMDA) during an awareness tour of the market in Lagos on Saturday, charged auto spares' dealers in the country to venture into manufacturing to advance industrialisation in the country. Odumodu assured the auto dealers that government

would not lay hurdles in the path of those upholding the principles of quality standards in their businesses. He noted: "Over 95 per cent of the spare parts sold in Nigeria were imported, which also implies that for every container load of these goods coming into the country, traders were also paying to sustain the employment of those producing them in other countries, while we are faced with serious unemployment back home." He urged the dealers to embrace the new e-registration exercise and officially opened the SON Help Desk at the market to provide assistance to the dealers with the electronic registration of their products without leaving their business environments.

My domain peaceful, says monarch

HE traditional ruler of Iseheri Olofin community in the Egbe-Idimu Local Council Development Area (LCDA) of Lagos State, Oba Wahab Ayinde Balogun, yesterday described the rumours of thuggery and harassment in his domain as unfounded. He told reporters in his palace that all hands had been on deck to ensure peaceful and harmonious co-existence among residents of the

• Oba Balogun

area, especially with the cooperation of security agencies. Oba Balogun said he was aware of the agenda of some unscrupulous elements to give the community a bad name by sponsoring faceless people to create panic with baseless falsehood for selfish reasons. The monarch disclosed that some people had vowed to make Isheri Olofin ungovernable for him and even threatened his life ever since his family won a 34-year-old land dispute in a Lagos High Court on May 15, last year. The royal father commended his peace-loving and law-abiding subjects, but warned trouble makers in the community to eschew their lawlessness or face the law. "There has never been a situation of lawlessness, harassment or violence in Isheri Olofin and Ikosi area of Idimu which constitute my domain. This can be confirmed from the law-enforcement agencies. Trespassers who failed to abide by the law and order of the land are those sponsoring faceless people to raise unnecessary dust," he stated.

CITYBEATS LINE: 08023247888

How robber killed police officer for ‘snatching’ his wife F

ACTS have emerged on how an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), Mr. John Orubabe, formerly attached to the anti-robbery section at Area 'F', Ikeja, Lagos, was killed by an armed robbery suspect for allegedly snatching his wife. Orubabe was killed in December 2012 with his daughter, who was a serving National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member. The slain police officer's second wife, whom he allegedly snatched from the suspected robber, was said to have told the police, how the incident occurred. Police are now on a manhunt for the suspect and his gang. It was gathered that trouble started for the slain officer after he and his team arrested a suspected robber who was allegedly terrorising residents. Sources said the Area Commander at Area 'F', ordered him to charge the suspect to

By Jude Isiguzo

court, but he refused. While the suspect was in the cell, his wife was bringing food to him. At that time, the suspect and the late Orubabe had begun negotiating his bail. It was learnt that the late officer fell in love with the suspect's wife and started making love advances to her. And when she told her husband, who was desperate for freedom, the latter told his wife to welcome the policeman's advances. The late Orubabe, it was learnt, eventually married her and got an apartment for her. He was said to have released the suspect after taking N1.5million from him. A police source said: "On the fateful day he was killed, he went to his second wife's place. In the middle of the night, he woke up and went to his first wife's place. They were sleeping at night when their gener-

ating set went off. They were all surprised because the generator was filled with fuel before they went to bed. He had three children from his first wife. "The first child was a girl, who had graduated and was even then serving. It was the girl who went down to check on the generator. Immediately she reached there, she noticed three guns and attempted to run back into the house, shouting "armed robbers … armed robbers!" They shot her in the back. "The shout had already attracted ASP Orubabe, who rushed out with his service pistol. He shot into the darkness and watched, but there was nobody. There was silence. He didn't know that the robbers were hiding. As soon as he stepped further out, they shot him repeatedly and left. The daughter died on the way to the hospital." It was learnt that the police carried the corpse of the slain

•Mohammed-Abubakar

officer to his village, but his kinsmen took the corpse and insisted on burying him according to tradition, which demanded the participation of his two wives. Weeks after the burial, his second wife had a psychotic breakdown and soon started singing like a canary. She confessed it was her husband, the robber, who killed the late officer. She reportedly insisted that she was never happy with Orubabe, adding that the two children he had for him, were biological children of her robber husband. According to sources, she said that the plan was to kill the police officer at her apartment, but she suggested the home of the first wife to avoid suspicion.

Church holds convention

“W

E must all believe in God's omnipotence. There is no knot too tough for Him to unknot - even with ease. Nigerians must not lose hope. There will be restoration in all sectors of our ailing nation. Our joy has come." These were the words of divine assurance from the Shepherd in charge of the Evergreen Christian Church of God, Pastor Philip Babalola on Saturday, while speaking with The Nation on its fourth annual convention. The celebration, which starts on November 1 and ends on November 3, he said, would hold at the church's premises at Home Touch Building (1st floor), 228, Obanikoro Bus Stop, Ikorodu Road, Lagos. The guest speaker, Pastor Charles Achonwa of Doulous Ministries, Babalola said, would speak on "Joy has come," the theme of the event, which will feature soul-lifting music by Funmi Sax and Spirit Lifters. Expatiating on the theme, lawyer-turned-pastor Babalola said it was deliberately chosen in line with God's directive to assure his congregation and indeed,

By Uyoatta Eshiet

suffering Nigerians, that whatever has a beginning must have an end, adding that joy would surely come, no matter how long. Apart from divinely inspiring words that would be churned out by men of God on the occasion, the cleric said that there would be special prayers for individuals and indeed, the nation. Recalling that the church began from "point zero" four years ago, he said: "It has been challenging, but we have ample cause to praise and thank God for the journey so far."

• Pastor Babalola

•Governor of Lagos State Mr Babatunde Fashola (SAN), speaking at the flag-off of Primary Health Care System on Oregun Road, Ikeja ... yesterday. With him are: Deputy Governor Mrs Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire (4th right); Chairman, Lagos House of Assembly’s Committee on Health, Hon Suru Afose (3rd right); Secretary to the State Government, Mrs Oluranti Adebule (2nd right); Special Adviser to the Governor on Education, Otunba Fatai Olukoga (right); Special Adviser on Health, Mrs Yewande Adesina (2nd left). PHOTOS: OMOSEHIN MOSES

ESIDENTS and business operators in Ikoyi and its environs in Lagos are happy as Afriland Properties Plc has unveiled Caterers Court on 1-6 Onitana Road, Ikoyi, for the comfort of corporate individuals and organisations, especially lovers of sporting activities like

Caterers Court lands in Ikoyi By Okwy Iroegbu-Chikezie

golf. The property, sitting on about 1.5 hectares of land, stretches from the beginning to the end of the road.

College celebrates

UPILS of Bethlehem Girls College, AbuleAdo Festac Town, Lagos, have presented a drama titled: "The Dignity of Womanhood" and a cultural dance to celebrate the school's first year anniversary. The school's chapel, venue of the event, was filled up as parents, siblings, friends, and families of both the pupils and staff had gathered for the event. Owned by the Archdiocese of Lagos, the school was commissioned on July 26, last year and began academic activities on September 20 same year.

By Sampson Unamka

The school's administrator, Reverend Sister Felicitas Osinde, Sister, said the school had gone through the preliminary stages of growth and survived despite various challenges. Reverend Sister Catherine Ndukwa said the school is "all girls" because "when you train a girl-child, you train the nation, but when you train a boy, a single family is trained," adding: "We want our nation to be formed with in totality; that is why we decided to train the girl-child to get the nation integrated into one."

A four-storey building comprises 30 well-finished threebedroom flats, with each of the rooms en-suite, while in size, the parlour and dining areas could compare with a town hall. Principal Partner, M.I.Okoro & Associates, a firm of estate surveyors and valuers, Mr Meckson Innocent Okoro, said that in terms of size, location, luxury and aesthetics, Caterer's Court remains unrivalled within its immediate upscale neighborhood. These qualities, coupled with its proximity to Ikoyi Club Golf Course, he added, make the court a preferred destination for corporate organisations whose employees love sports, especially golf. Okoro added: "Prospective tenants can hold their Christmas or other parties by the pool-side. There is a gym for relaxation and exercise, and al-

ready there are security personnel here to ensure that lives and property are safe." "The building is one of the foremost master-pieces in the old Ikoyi. The exterior has fine finishing with ceramic tiles and burnt bricks which add to its aesthetic beauty and ensure durability. The concept is British with some level of modernisation; it promises 24hour power supply from the public mains to be complemented with stand-by two 2,000-KVA generators", he added. He said the building is for lease and not for outright sale, with minimum lease period of two years and maximum of 10 years while each flat is in the market for $65-70,000 or N10 million per annum. "Our expectation is to get a corporate body that can take the whole building or three corporate bodies that can take 10 flats each", he said.

THE NATION MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2013

CITYBEATS

CITYBEATS LINE: 08023247888

Lagos Assembly seeks prudence

'This is justice delayed …'

By Oziegbe Okoeki

•Family seeks justice over breadwinner's killing, 12 years after

“O

UR breadwinner was murdered over 12 years ago; we deserve to know who killed him and what his offence was … this is justice delayed," Mr Ola-Wealthy Ganiyu said yesterday as he fought tears. He is the first son of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) official, Comrade Muyibi Ganiyu, who was allegedly murdered by a faction of the group 12 years ago. Ola-Weathy, who led eight other members of the family to the Lagos Headquarters of The Nation, urged the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr Mohammed Abubakar and the Lagos State Government to help his aggrieved family. The late Ganiyu's son said he wants the IGP and the Lagos State Ministry of Justice to find his father's killers. OlaWealthy, who alleged that the man was murdered during a re-election crisis of the maritime workers' union in 2001, demanded adequate compensation for his family. He recalled: "On April 9, 2001, my father went to work; he told me they were going to resume as union officers. Unfortunately, he met his death. He was macheted to death; he was a unionist and they were embroiled in a factional crisis. There was a power tussle between a group led by Mr Uzoije Ukaumunna and another led by Mr Irabor Onikolease, who claimed to be the winner of the re-election and subsequently took over the office." Ola said when his father was

‘On April 9, 2001, my father went to work; he told me they were going to resume as union officers. Unfortunately, he met his death. He was macheted to death; he was a unionist and they were embroiled in a factional crisis’ By Uyoatta Eshiet

murdered, he was just 17 years old and hence, could not fight for his killing then as there was nobody to support him. He said he had contacted a non-governmental organisation, Centre for the Defence of Human Rights and Democracy in Africa (CDHRDA), which requested the IGP to order a re-opening of the case. However, he expressed concern over the manner the police had been handling the case, adding that he had been under threats. "In August last year, because of the steps taken to re-open the case, Mr Tony Nted Emmanuel, the current President General and some other officers of MWUN told us that killer of our father had come back with the case, that we should be on their side. They invited my family for a meeting at the Excellence Hotel at Apapa. They asked us to eat and drink anything we wanted for the first time in 12 years; the sudden kindness and interest was suspicious to us," he said. On August 7, the family

wrote to the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Lagos State and copied the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Federal Ministry of Justice and the President West African Bar Association (WABA), among others, demanding assistance to bring the man's killers to justice. The CDHRDA's SecretaryGeneral, Prof. Maurice Fangnon, said the group, on September 28, 2012, wrote to the IGP, who was in charge of the case then as the AIG Zone 2, to cause the re-opening of the case and ensure justice. The IGP, he said, promptly ordered the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, through the Deputy InspectorGeneral of Police (DIG), Zone 2, to act. The commissioner, Fangnon , directed the Deputy Commissioner in charge of the State Criminal Investigations Department (SCID), Panti, Yaba, to follow up, but regretted that till now, the police were yet to respond positively. The organisation, he said, had therefore, petitioned eight local and international human rights bodies, including Am-

nesty International of London, Human Rights Watch, Washington and African Human Rights Commission, Banjul, Gambia for action. The man, who took over as the President-General of the maritime body the day Ganiyu was murdered, Mr Irabor Onikolease, told The Nation that the victim was one of his supporters, but regretted that he did not live to be a part of the administration. He said on the day of his take-over, the late Ganiyu had gone to the Union House alone against their arrangement that all of them would ride in a convoy to the secretariat for the take-over. Onikolease said he met his death because the other faction had laid ambush at the secretariat before his arrival, adding that he was sure that God's judgment would catch up with his murderers. Ukaumunna said there was no faction while he was the National President of the body, adding: "In April 2001, when one of our members, who said he was coming to take over the secretariat, came with five lorry loads of thugs wearing clothes with the inscription, "Irabor for President," Ganiyu was killed because he was in the secretariat without the cloth on. This is what eye witnesses said. We were stopped from going to the secretariat because it was taken over by armed policemen”. He said when told that one of his members (Ganiyu) had been killed at the secretariat, he wrote to the state Commissioner of Police and higher

•The late Ganiyu

police authorities, adding that instead of doing their work, they came, arrested and detained him and his aides at Panti and at Ikoyi Prisons and later charged to the Yaba Magistrate Court. He said he first spent 52 days in custody before they were brought back to court on the order of the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) after when he was discharged and acquitted. Ukaumunna said after three years, 18 of them were re-arrested, detained at various places and after 37 court sittings in three years, the Magistrate discharged them again. He said in four years, he had spent 80 days in detention during which period his daughter died and was buried in his absence. He said he had been doing his best possible to help the bereaved family get justice. Lagos State Police Command's Deputy Public Relations Officer (DPPRO), Mr Ozoani Chukwuma, said he would get back to the reporter when the true position of things had been ascertained.

THE Lagos State House of Assembly's Committee on Public Account (State) has ordered Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to comply strictly with the provisions of the financial regulations as failure to do so would attract sanctions. Chairman of the committee, Hon. Bolaji Yusuf Ayinla, gave the directive at a meeting with representatives of the MDAs at the Assembly Complex, Alausa, Ikeja. The meeting, Ayinla said was necessitated because of issues arising from the ongoing consideration of AuditorGeneral's Audited report, involving the Ministry of Physical Planning and its agency, Lagos State Physical Planning Authority (LASPAA). The report queried LASPAA over non-retirement of vouchers, which the agency said, was expended by the parent ministry (Physical Planning). The General Manager of LASPAA, TPL, Toyin Abdul, said his agency had written to its parent ministry to forward necessary documents needed to retire the voucher, as requested by the Auditor-General. However, the Permanent Secretary, Mrs Toyin Ajayi, told the committee that the vouchers had been retired since the fund had been expended, citing similar instances with LAMATA and Ministry of Works, which also issued cheques to the ministry for services rendered.

GUS 10 EPISODE 17: HALIMA EVICTED FROM SHOW

• Weakest links from both tribes, Anthony and Halima Halima emerged the weakest link in the Square of Ten challenge and that earned her eviction from GUS 10. The core of the challenge was to arrange cubes marked numbers 1 to 4 on a work station in such a way that they would add up to 10 vertically, horizontally and diagonally. The warriors were to work as individuals.

•Chairman, Amuwo Odofin Local Government, Lagos State, Comrade Ayodeji Adewale (second left) with Chief Imam General Festac Town, Alhaji Yemi Idris (second right); Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Festac, Pastor Elias Olufemi (left) and Elder Olayi Balogun at the International Thanksgiving and Prayer Session for former Lagos Governor Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the by Mandate Group, Amuwo Odofin Chapter ... in Fastac . PHOTO: NIYI ADENIRAN

Group celebrates World Food Day, feeds 2000 children at Makoko

N commemoration of this year's edition of World Food Day, Foodclique Support Initiative, a non-governmental organisation, has distributed food items and gifts to over 2000 children in Makoko Community in Lagos State. Co-founder and Secretary of the group, Mr Akerele Hareef, said the development was part of the organisation's strategy at waging war against hunger

By Miriam Ekene-Okoro

in the state. Hareef enjoined corporate organisations, individuals and government to use the celebration to step up the advocacy of ending hunger in the society. He said: "Hunger is a problem created by social inequalities and if palliative measures are made available to bridge the social gap between the haves and have-nots in the so-

ciety, with the former being over 75 per cent of the population, the society will be a better place.” He identified the measures as provision of food through food banks as it is done in advanced societies. Also, Vice President of the body, Ibrahim Onilegbale, said: "Foodclique Support Initiative is celebrating her third edition of the event and we felt that with the growing level of

hunger and poverty, there is the need to evolve such initiative to advocate against hunger is imperative.” A member of the House of Representatives, representing Ikorodu Federal Constituency 1, Hon Abike Dabiri-Erewa, who commended the organisation for the gesture, said such efforts, if adopted by corporate organisations, would go a long way in ending hunger in the society.

Each warrior would make his/ her way through an obstacle course retrieving four cubes per trip; picking 16 cubes in all. The cubes were to be picked serially, starting with cube one. The first warrior to retrieve and completely assemble the cubes correctly wins the challenge, both as an individual and for the tribe. Halima returned on her second trip with cube number 3 instead of 2. This mistake cost her valuable time as she went back and forth to correct it. Eddy finished first, followed by Ifunanya, then Tracy. Others followed in slow succession. However, Anthony, Martha and Halima failed the task and the Anchor-man sent them to a tree behind the obstacle course for a clue. Martha and Anthony correctly solved the clue. Halima still could not get it. She was later evicted at the Place of the Talking Drum. The warriors were however inducted into the Hammer tribe; as the Spears and Swords tribes have now ceased to exist. The new Hammer tribe members are: Eddy, Bobby, Kunle, Tracy,Ifunanya, Martha, Denis and Anthony. ChidiMokeme, the Anchor man, appreciated Ezugo and Dominic, the two Gatekeepers, for their contribution in moulding the warriors. The Gatekeepers bid the warriors farewell. Catch more exciting episodes and clues to the Fans Edition on the following stations: African Magic (DSTV), Ebonylife TV, Realstar, Wap TV, ESBS and AKBC at 10pm; and AIT & Galaxy TV at 10:30pm.

THE NATION MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2013

NEWS

•Aare Babalola (in white suit and hat) with Prof Osho (far right) and Registrar Lady Christie Oluborode (second right) with the pioneer graduating students at the Alumni Tower... on Saturday PHOTO: ADEGUNLE OLUGBAMILA

18 earn first class as ABUAD gets 101 pioneer graduates today The Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD) will today line up 101 students as its first set of graduates. Among them are 18 first-class degrees holders. ADEGUNLE OLUGBAMILA examines the university’s journey and the vision of its founder. A painful farewell it seemed for time Pro-Chancellor and Chairman-

HE first set of graduates will, today, line up for the convocation of the Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD). The 101 graduates are from the university’s Colleges of Sciences, Social Sciences and Management Sciences. They have been described as “academically and morally successful”, according to ABUAD’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof Sidi Osho. The three colleges, where the graduating students were drawn from, took off in the 2009/2010 academic session. Today climaxes the week-long activities of the convocation, which began last Thursday with a media briefing. Other activities, such as a facility tour of the university, book launch, dedication of the College of Engineering - named after President Goodluck Jonathan - dedication of the Alumni Tower by pioneering graduates, film shows, founder’s dinner and farewell service, among others, will also hold during the week. The magnificent entrance to the three-and-a-half-year-old university, whose students have always enjoyed uninterrupted academic calendar will, today, be renamed after former President Olusegun Obasanjo, a good friend of the founder, Aare Afe Babalola (SAN). The university’s new 5,000-capacity multi-purpose hall will be named after former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Alfa Belgore (rtd). A special moment for ABUAD today is that its pioneer valedictorian, Akomolafe Sola, an Accounting graduate with a Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 4.89, will lead 17 other graduates as the university’s pioneer First-Class degree holders. Obasanjo and the Deputy DirectorGeneral of the United Nations Educational Science and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), Dr Lalla Aicha Ben Barka, will be awarded honorary degrees. “Reports reaching us from some of our students, who went on internships and industrial attachments, show that they were well behaved, dutiful and innovative. This did not come to us as a surprise, as moral education is part of what our students, go through. Even visitors to our school also affirm this’’, Mrs Osho said. She added: “The purpose is to have a total education system in which every student is taken through the normal curriculum, as recommended by the National Universities Commis-

‘We want to be in the mould of Harvard, Cambridge and Yale (universities) in not-too-distant time,” Babalola said. If this is our target, it simply means we need to start firing from all cylinders. We are not going to rest until we see our dreams fulfilled’ sion (NUC), and a lot more, including food security, entrepreneurial and leadership training as well as international language proficiency classes. In a way, this gives our products an edge over other graduates, as it helps them to survive the supersaturated labour market.” Aare Babalola, an accomplished lawyer, could not have been happier. For a man, who has attained the zenith of his profession and whose Emmanuel Chambers is adjudged to have produced the highest number of Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs), today’s occasion must be a watershed for him. The renowned lawyer said ABUAD is a victory over poverty; a triumph over impossibilities and a lasting legacy. Aare Babalola’s global reckoning runs in sharp contrast to his humble background, where he experienced abject poverty. He usually recalls how he walked barefooted for nearly two decades because his parents could not afford

•Aare Babalola

to buy him shoes. Worse still was the fact that there was no money to enrol him in school. But through a correspondence school, Babalola worked hard and obtained his School Certificate. Despite his success in the legal profession and now the Education sector, Babalola believes the journey has just begun. For the octogenarian, the best is yet to come. And he would not settle for less. The legal icon believes there are still many rivers to cross. His vision for ABUAD is to make the university among the best in the world. He has been working hard at this since its inception. It is not surprising that ABUAD is graduating some of the best students in various fields today. The Babalola’s Midas Touch has enabled a man from humble beginnings to hold his own among kings, presidents, and other prominent personage. The genesis of ABUAD, Babalola says, is not a mere show-off. As a two-

of-Council of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), the legal icon witnessed many years of government’s neglect in public education. This resulted in infrastructural decay, graduating halfbaked students and incessant strikes. This fired Babalola’s desire to set up a “regulatory university,” which would give Nigerians functional education “by being a model in education, character, discipline and service.” Besides its philosophy, ABUAD will continue to resonate in the hearts of the pioneer graduates and many others who will come after. It is the message of hope and victory over challenges, a philosophy of optimism and of Impossibility Made Possible, an allusion to Babalola’s captivating book. In this era of global economic depression, unemployment and other challenges affecting humanity, Babalola has never relented in chorusing his gospel of “I can still make it.” Last Saturday, at the dedication of the Alumni Tower in front of the university’s Owolabi Hall, the renowned lawyer was in his element. Thanking the donors, the expectant graduates for the donation, Babalola went down memory lane. He recounted his numerous battles with poverty. He said: “I had a very challenging upbringing. I recall that for almost 20 years, I walked barefooted because my parents could not afford to buy me a pair of shoes. Today, I have many shoes but I don’t wear them. Also today, I have been to virtually all countries of the world. So, my message is that if I can make it, you too can make it. I want you to leave this university with this mindset that nothing in life is impossible, if you are diligent and you believe in God and in yourself…”

him. Yet, it was a greater happiness that the first set of graduates of the university is marching out today. “It is a great privilege that you will forever be remembered as the first set of graduates from ABUAD. Therefore, I want to advise you to carry the name of this university with pride. Be good ambassadors of this great university and continue to demonstrate the sound academic and moral culture ABUAD inculcated in you. “We want to be in the mould of Harvard, Cambridge and Yale (universities) in not-too-distant time,” Babalola said. “If this is our target, it simply means we need to start firing from all cylinders. We are not going to rest until we see our dreams fulfilled,” he added. The investments of the university, including its sprawling enterprise farm, stand at N60 billion ($420 million) Babalola said. This was the figure from the university’s estate valuers. He said the university is an epitome of Nigeria, drawing students from every state, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Besides, ABUAD is rated as the fastest-growing private university in Africa. It is also a model university, according to the National Universities Commission (NUC). The university takes the Second Best Private University in the World Universities Webometric and ranks 13 of the 157 public and private universities in Nigeria. But Babalola is not intoxicated by all these achievements. He said the achievements are simply the starting point for ABUAD, which is being programmed to be among the Ivory League, in the nearest future.

Wike berates critics of First Lady’s honorary degree

HE Supervising Minister of Education, Nyesom Wike, yesterday faulted those criticising the First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, for the honorary doctorate degree conferred on her by a university in South Korea. The minister said the criticisms were “not only out of place, but bereft of common sense”. Critics of the award had claimed that it was ill-timed and improper for the First Lady to receive it when Nigerian universities were shut down because of the strike by Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).

From Augustine Ehikioya, Abuja

Wike said there was nothing wrong with the action of the First Lady since it was the university that extended the gesture to her. The minister said the award was in recognition of the First Lady’s humanitarian services and the fight against cyber crimes. He said: “One will not necessarily bother himself because most of these critics do not understand how governance operates. “The mere fact that ASUU is not on campus does not mean all activities of government would be

grounded. “It does not also mean that other workers of the universities are not working. They are working; the only thing is that academic activities are not taking place. “So, if other institutions all over the world want to honour the First Lady for her contribution to mankind, I do not see anything wrong with that. “That ASUU is on strike does not mean all universities are on strike. University of Ilorin is a public university but they are not on strike. “There are also other private universities in this country. So, to me

such criticism is completely out of place; it does not make any sense,” he stated. He also appealed to the ASUU members to shift grounds on their demands, just the way government had done, in order to end the four months strike. He noted that the demands of the teachers had been there for over 20 years. Stressing that it was impossible for the government to fully fund the tertiary institutions, he advocated financial autonomy for the institutions.

THE NATION MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2013

THE NATION MONDAY, OCTOMBER 21, 2013

COMMENTARY FROM OTHER LANDS

EDITORIALS

An enriching dialogue with Iran — with limits

NSE alert • Again, the exchange’s X-Compliance report reveals all that is wrong with quoted firms

N a clime where impunity by corporate actors is the rule rather than the exception, it comes as no surprise that the Nigeria Stock Exchange, NSE, is again posting an unflattering score-card on the activities of some of its listed companies. The X-Compliance report published by the NSE is instructive: 92 companies fell short of the exchange’s minimum listing standards. The infractions were specific: failure to disclose audited annual financial statements and interim quarterly accounts on time, and non-disclosure of information. Of the 92 companies, the report found that 51 defaulted in filing their audited accounts; the rest did not bother to render audited financial statements for 2012. In more serious cases, some did not even render audited accounts for three years. Jos International Breweries, for instance, was indicted for non-rendition of audited accounts for 2010, 2011 and 2012; while G. Cappa Plc was cited for default in its 2011, 2012 and 2013 accounts. Others like Afrik Pharmaceuticals Plc and Nigerian Wire Cable Company Plc did not file in their audited accounts for 2011 and 2012; in the same vein, Nigerian German Chemicals Plc and Union Homes and Savings Plc failed to render their audited accounts for 2012 and 2013. This is in spite of the fact that the listing rules mandated them to file their quarterly accounts within 45 days after the end of the quarter. That is not all. In the current year, a total of 66 companies failed to file in their interim quarterly accounts for the first

quarter of 2013, with 30 also in default in rendering their audited accounts. In the second quarter, 13 companies were affected with five defaulting in other areas. Sterling Bank Plc, Union Bank Plc and Dangote Cement Plc were charged with operating below listing standards for non-disclosure of information. Dangote Cement and Union Bank were found to have violated guidelines for nonrendition of free-float compliance report; Sterling Bank was listed for non-disclosure of the material information to the regulator with N1.323m fine imposed for non-disclosure of bond issuance to the exchange. On the balance, the report found that a total of 25 companies duly filed their interim accounts for the first quarter of 2013; 49 quoted companies filed their interim accounts early for the second quarter of 2013. The NSE has certainly taken an important step of identifying the infractions; we consider this first and necessary step to getting the companies live up to their responsibilities as quoted companies. The question is what next? We expect the exchange to move beyond the tactic of ‘naming and shaming’ of offenders. It should devise effective methods to secure the compliance of the affected companies with relevant regulations. Need we remind both the NSE and the companies that the regulations were put in place to ensure discipline and order in the capital market and in particular, to guide investors into making

informed decisions? When regulations are observed more in the breach as the X-Compliance report does suggest, the result is not just the calling of the institutional integrity of the NSE to question; the net effect is the gradual erosion of confidence of the investing public in the capital market. The offending companies must not be allowed to carry on as if nothing happened. A good place to start is for the NSE to undertake a realistic assessment of its capacity to enforce the regulations. Better, in our view, to deal with the capacity issue first to guarantee success of any planned enforcement action. The bottom-line is the right of the investing public to know. Nothing of the activities of the management of the quoted companies must be seen to abridge that right.

‘The offending companies must not be allowed to carry on as if nothing happened. A good place to start is for the NSE to undertake a realistic assessment of its capacity to enforce the regulations. Better, in our view, to deal with the capacity issue first to guarantee success of any planned enforcement action’

Loot without end •Liechtenstein should do the right thing by returning Nigeria’s $185m stolen by Abacha

IGERIANS yet again are regaled with the tales of the Abacha years of kleptomania. This time, the news is that Liechtenstein is trying all the tricks in the books to further delay the repatriation of $185 million, stolen through surrogate companies by Gen. Sani Abacha, when he was the maximum ruler in Nigeria. According to the Minister of Finance, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the help of the World Bank has been enlisted to help persuade Liechtenstein to do the right thing, by returning the loot. She wondered why the delay, when courts in Liechtenstein had ordered that the money be released to Nigeria. The finance minister, addressing a press conference at the International Monetary Fund/World Bank annual meet-

‘If Liechtenstein has any reputation to protect, it should be seen to be making concerted effort to help return the stolen wealth of ordinary Nigerians to their country, instead of taking steps that can rightly be seen as stalling the release of the looted resources. After all, under the municipal law of any modern society, the receiver of stolen goods is as guilty as the thief’

ings, noted the disturbing long effort to get Liechtenstein to return the stolen wealth to Nigeria: “For 14 years, starting since the Presidency of President Olusegun Obasanjo, we have been pursuing this money in Liechtenstein and this is part of the legacy of the Abacha money taken out of the country”. Now after the courts in Liechtenstein have ordered the return of the money, the indicted companies trumped up a new course of action at the European Court of Human Rights, and Liechtenstein is relying on that to further hold on to the loot. This should be unacceptable both to Nigeria and to the international community; so we urge the World Bank to pressure Liechtenstein to return the money without further delay. Indeed, if Liechtenstein has any reputation to protect, it should be seen to be making concerted effort to help return the stolen wealth of ordinary Nigerians to their country, instead of taking steps that can rightly be seen as stalling the release of the looted resources. After all, under the municipal law of any modern society, the receiver of stolen goods is as guilty as the thief. While the Federal Government deserves commendation for working hard to recover the country’s wealth stolen by previous regimes, it is also fair to ask, what has become of the portions of the loot so far recovered? As many have asked, is it not possible that the regimes that have worked so hard to recover these

monies have also re-looted the recovered funds? We are asking this question because we are not aware of how the funds recovered over the years have been utilised or paid back into our consolidated revenue account. It is also fair to ask whether the recovered monies have been frittered away as fees to third parties, or through other questionable means. Even more pertinent is what has the current government done to stop the clearly observable stealing of our common resources, at several levels of governance? Again, will it not be right to state that despite assurances from the highest officials of government, there is no serious effort to rein in corruption by the current government? Is it not likely, therefore, that when a government willing to demand an account is voted into place, we are likely to have tales of similar recoveries from the regimes that have been celebrating the recovery of loots from the Abacha years? While we await answers to these questions bothering the general public, it is important for our governments to be transparently more accountable. Unfortunately, this government and the ones preceding it have presided over heartbreaking scams just like in the Abacha years, such that many Nigerians are left wondering whether anything has really changed.

HOUGH few details of Iran’s new offer on its nuclear program have been released, two broad points were clear following this week’s negotiations in Geneva. One is encouraging: The Iranian government is more serious than it has been in years about negotiating a deal with the United States and its five partners. The other is ominous: Tehran is still insisting that it will never give up its capability to enrich uranium, which is the key to nuclear weapons production. The detailed proposal set out by Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif was a stark change from previous rounds of negotiations , which featured filibustering by Iranian negotiators who offered only vague ideas. Mr. Zarif made clear that Iran is eager to come to an agreement that would lift the sanctions crippling its economy. He reportedly talked about finalizing an accord within three to six months. Several reports, including one by Iran’s state news agency, suggested that the plan includes limits on the degree to which uranium would be enriched and on the number of centrifuges, as well as acceptance of a more aggressive U.N. inspection regime. As Trita Parsi of the IranianAmerican National Council pointed out, the proposal may resemble that offered by Mr. Zarif and Iranian President Hassan Rouhani when they last represented Iran in nuclear talks, in 2005. The scheme they presented then would have restricted Iran to 3,000 centrifuges; it now has 19,000 installed. That 2005 plan was rejected by the Bush administration and the European Union because it would have allowed Iran to continue enrichment, which remains a central feature of the new proposal. Mr. Zarif is saying that Iran’s “right” to enrich uranium must be recognized, and it appears Tehran may be unwilling to take even the interim, confidence-building steps proposed by the United States unless this principle is conceded. This position is troubling. No “right” to enrich uranium exists in the Non-Proliferation Treaty. Nor is enrichment needed for a nuclear power program: Many countries using nuclear power do not enrich their own uranium. On the other hand, as Mr. Rouhani himself said in a 2005 speech, a “country that possesses this capability is able to produce nuclear weapons.” Iran’s insistence on enrichment appears meant to preserve a capability for nuclear breakout after sanctions are lifted. The Obama administration has been hinting that it could accept some Iranian enrichment, provided it was under strict controls. But any such deal would pose political challenges. Israel and France remain opposed to any Iranian enrichment, as do many members of Congress. Six Democratic and four Republican senators recently sent President Obama a letter rejecting Iran’s enrichment demands and saying that Iran should suspend all enrichment now in order to avoid further congressionally mandated sanctions. We believe it is worth exploring a settlement that permits a token amount of enrichment while locking down the program to minimize the chance of an undetected breakout. Certainly this would be preferable to military action. But such a deal would require far greater concessions than the regime appears to be contemplating. As Russia’s deputy foreign minister put it in Geneva, the sides remain “kilometers apart.” And since Iran has yet to slow its enrichment, time is running out. – Washington Post

TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief Victor Ifijeh • Editor Gbenga Omotoso •Chairman, Editorial Board Sam Omatseye •General Editor Adekunle Ade-Adeleye •Editor, Online Lekan Otufodunrin •Managing Editor Northern Operation Yusuf Alli •Managing Editor Waheed Odusile

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• Gen. Manager (Training and Development) Soji Omotunde •General Manager (Abuja Press) Kehinde Olowu •AGM (PH Press) Tunde Olasogba

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•Deputy Editor (Nation’s Capital) •Press Manager Yomi Odunuga Udensi Chikaodi •Group Political Editor Emmanuel Oladesu •Legal Counsel John Unachukwu •Dep. Business Editor Simeon Ebulu • Manager (Admin) Folake Adeoye •Group Sports Editor Ade Ojeikere •Acting Manager (sales) •Editorial Page Editor Olaribigbe Bello Sanya Oni

THE NATION MONDAY, OCTOMBER 21, 2013

CARTOON & LETTERS

IR: In 2011, When President Goodluck Jonathan contested for the presidency, the bait he brandished was the transformation agenda- a delusional promise to transform all sectors in the country. Close to three years after, Jonathan has not been able to transform Nigeria as it continues to wallow in socio-economic backwardness, with the spate of degeneration in the country reaching an alarming rate. The latest casualty of Jonathan’s regressive leadership is the closeto-four months strike embarked on by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) over unpaid allowances and unfulfilled agreement the federal government reached with it in 2009. A perusal of the treatment of the strike by the federal government shows that the Jonathan administration does not see education as priority. While the president is busy with his ambition and party business, the educational sector is in shambles. He has planned personal meetings with the so-called

Victor Moses and team spirit in Super Eagles

IR: With the recent display by Victor Moses especially at the Africa Cup of Nations in South Africa, many Nigerian including this writer have come to love Victor Moses and his style of play. But the pre-match comment by the player in the match against the Antelope of Ethiopia where Moses was quoted to have said “I will score against Ethiopia” showed clearly that he is gradually forgetting that football is a team game unlike table tennis. My advice to Moses is that he should learn from the likes of Emmanuel Emenike who after delivering a brace at the match returned all the glory to God. No doubt Moses is a good player; with team wor,; the sky is the limit for him. • Adewumi ‘Tope Humble Federal University, Oye Ekiti

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ASUU strike and FG’s transformation agenda aggrieved governors but has not deemed it fit to show commitment to the future of the country by having a meeting with ASUU leadership. This underscores the level of recognition accorded education by our President. ASUU’s demands are not selfish or are they political as insinuated by some mischief makers in the presidency. ASUU is campaigning against the high level infrastructural decadence of Nigerian universities. This stance is the reality as most universities in our country are not better than prison yards. What of the 87 billion naira un-

paid allowances owed ASUU? Is it not a show of inhumanity and irresponsibility for a government to owe its workers such amount of money? It is noteworthy that amidst these and other reasonable demands by ASUU, the federal government tends to be unmoved. Rather than display maturity which is a requisite virtue of competent leaders, the presidency adopted childish approach making outrageous statements. One of such is the platitudinous statement credited to the Minister of Finance and the Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala that the federal government cannot

meet ASUU’s unpaid allowances demands. It is understood that she may want to please her boss; however, doing that at the detriment of the future of the country is grossly unfortunate. The latest stoppage of lecturers’ salary attests to the notion that the President has not gotten it right. That is a demonstration of immaturity in handling avoidable crisis. It is worthy of note that the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) is also on strike while the National Union of Teachers (NUT) is ready to join ASUU as a means of solidarity. Yet, the presidency has not done enough to convince Nige-

rians of its concern. A president who is not alarmed at the suspension of academic activities in virtually all tertiary institutions in his country cannot be said to be transformational. I fear if the articulated but passive transformation agenda is not deformation agenda in disguise. It is pathetic that this situation tends to replicate in virtually all sectors- not education only. The status quo in the country is a celebration of beautified deformation with no transformation history to tell. The government should address ASUU’s demands soonest and wake up from its slumber concerning other sectors. Personal ambitions should be shelved and the future of the country prioritised. A country cannot attain the height of glory in a garment of shame and indirection. Else, a massive alignment with the emerged viable progressives won’t be a bad idea. • Simon Godwin University of Lagos

President Jonathan and corruption IR recently, President Goodluck Jonathan remarked that corruption is not Nigeria’s worst problem. But Nigerians know better. Corruption is the reason why the refineries in Nigeria are not working and Nigeria imports fuel and inadvertently exports jobs. It is the reason why Nigeria spent so much money on power supply yet Nigerians are in darkness, with every family that can afford it owning one or more generators. Even Aso Rock has a monumental budget for generators, its maintenance and fuel. It is unbelievable that the history of electricity in Nigeria is over 100 years! Corruption is the reason why planes crash in Nigeria frequently. There was one last year, another this year. Aren’t Nigerians silently asking themselves when the next one will occur? Corruption is the reason why

the roads in Nigeria are death traps. Corruption is the reason why the banks failed in Nigeria, the thieves walk free and government paid over N5 trillion to recapitalize the banks. Corruption is the reason why the government doled out over N1 trillion to its friends for fuel not imported –sabotaging the Nigerian people and the economy! Corruption is the reason why about 70% of the population live on less than $2 a day. It is the reason why water is not running in our taps and we are forced to sink wells or boreholes. Corruption is the reason why billions of naira in pensions fund was stolen and the thieves walk free. It is at the heart of Nigeria’s security challenges –Boko Haram, kidnapping, armed robbery, militancy etc -with trillions of naira paid to warlords that have been engaged as security

consultants (militancy pays in Nigeria!). Corruption is manufactured in the National Assembly where lawmakers use oversight functions to demand for bribe (they are all rich and majority of Nigerians are poor!). Corruption is the reason why pupils do not have good classrooms. Corruption is the reason why the universities in Nigeria have been shut for the fourth month running (and the government has not been sacked). Now, this is how. Every naira stolen has an opportunity cost the best schools we should have had, water running in our taps, uninterrupted electricity supply, universities that rank among the best in the world, safe country, smooth roads, safe skies, high per capita income, good hospitals, industrial growth, employment for the populace etc. Corruption is the reason why

Nigeria is what it is today –the shame of the black race. President Jonathan knows why he has chosen to make light the issue of corruption in Nigeria. Yes, the president and his finance minister were right that corruption in Nigeria is across the value chain. But they were so very wrong to advance that as reason for the government’s helplessness. The anticorruption agencies have become hopelessly inefficient and as compromised as the people who run Nigeria. Only a clean government can square up to corruption. The government remains our problem on corruption. Next time when Nigerians go to the polls, we must not be swayed by rhetoric, religion or tribe. We must elect a president that has the moral authority to fight corruption. •Olami Akanni Abuja

THE NATION MONDAY, OCTOMBER 21, 2013

COMMENTS

N a rare and revealing interview dripping with circumstantial logic, Dr. Reuben Abati, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, illuminated his official philosophy and guiding principle in the face of perhaps well-founded accusation of changeability in his practice. Not surprisingly, he spoke defensively, but unwittingly betrayed his self-serving thinking and superficiality. “An invitation to serve your country is the highest honour that can be bestowed upon anybody,” he stressed with a hint of vainglory, grossly playing down the implication of the nature of the administration. There is sufficient evidence that political progressivism is alien to his boss, President Goodluck Jonathan; and his inclusion in the team of old ideas not only contradicts his professional antecedents as a presumably forward-looking high-profile newspaper columnist, it also questions the perception. Abati’s apparent explanation of the incongruity was an exercise in sophisticated sophistry, leaving him open to even worse delineation, for he then presented the image of a hitherto uninformed commentator, which is absurd, given his status. According to him, “And having spent some time in government, I have seen that public officials are there also to make a difference.” Could this admission of education mean that his days as a notable government critic were informed by ignorance, which he now regrets? What does this picture say of his past glory? Even more, what is the public supposed to believe, now that an analyst and event-interpreter of his standing has, by implication, disclaimed his history? It is fascinating that he chose two uncomplimentary metaphors as self-description, saying, “I do my best as

‘Perhaps the greatest indication of Establishment mentality was Abati’s promotion of a simplistic interpretation of the government’s failings. He reduced the alarming and fundamental reality of a visionless government to a far-fetched argument about petty political rivalry. It was a moment of ironic vacuity when he offered what should pass for embarrassing thoughtlessness’

Abati’s albatross By Femi Macaulay the President’s parrot and town crier.” Within the framework of this understanding of his work, it was strikingly incongruous when he claimed, “I don’t lie to the public. I explain things to the public. I put things in context…” Clearly, there is some confusion here because, by definition, a parrot is a quintessential mimic, meaning that if Jonathan is lying, then his mouthpiece must be lying as well. Also, the town crier is well defined by his slavish labour, meaning that whatever explanation or contextualisation he does is controlled by the authorities he represents. It is interesting and rather unflattering that the import of his self-qualification was apparently lost on Abati who, incidentally, has a doctorate in Literature, a subject that is concerned with diction. One aspect of the interview was a perfect example of that logical fallacy called Argumentum ad hominem, which involves an assault on a critic in order to discredit an argument or opinion. It is noteworthy that such method is generally regarded as the weapon of the immature or unintelligent who are unable to counter the other party using sound logic or superior intelligence. In short, it is the refuge of the dodger. Abati’s words : “From what I have seen , people who criticise me and say he is no longer critical, he has joined them, he is now eating, can’t you see he has added weight from too much eating, are just being mischievous or hypocritical.” His defence, presumptuous and suggestive of blackmail, was: “The same people will wish to be on this side, they will wish to be in government, and I see many of these same critical persons, perpetually hanging around government looking for this and that, practically begging, soliciting, hustling, but they go out there and pretend to be otherwise. But that is a story for another day. And their story will be told someday.” When will Abati be generous with such tantalising and damning exposé? Given that he demonstrated an overwhelming sense of outrage, it would have been more like human nature if he had revealed identities. Why should the public applaud his dramatic mudslinging at no one in particular, but at nebulous ghosts? On specificity, which is at the heart of journalism, his first love, and communication in general, he scored an abysmal zero.

In a display of wrong-headed satisfaction with his performance in allegedly taming the opposition, Abati’s crowing was a sad commentary on civility. Referring to his verbal battles, he gloated, saying, “ Fashakin has learnt to conduct himself like a gentleman. Even Lai Mohammed has since become a fine gentleman. They all seem to understand the ground rules now.” This was his conceited way of saying that he had employed sewer language to answer critics of the administration, and was unapologetic about it. According to him, “If you try to ridicule the President, I am not likely to be nice to you at all. If you throw a punch, I will connect you with an upper cut and maybe a kick to the groin.” Certainly, Abati is entitled to his pugilistic imagery and karate fantasy, but he might be mistaken in supposing that he could make gentlemen of others through thuggish means. Perhaps the greatest indication of Establishment mentality was Abati’s promotion of a simplistic interpretation of the government’s failings. He reduced the alarming and fundamental reality of a visionless government to a far-fetched argument about petty political rivalry. It was a moment of ironic vacuity when he offered what should pass for embarrassing thoughtlessness. According to Jonathan’s spokesman, “What we have seen is that immediately President Jonathan won the election, the bad losers in the other political parties just resolved that they would not allow his government to function. That is not statesmanship or sportsmanship and it is cruel.” It is unclear whether Abati himself believed his own words, which would be not only absolutely pathetic, but also utterly amusing, if he did. It was a glaring demonstration of how not to think, and a large discredit to his learning. It is even more disturbing that he claimed to be unchanged, saying, “It is still the same head, the same personality.” In the end, it would appear that the attraction of public office has become an albatross around Abati’s neck, which is a cause for concern. Sadly, he seems too engrossed to recognise that he needs contemplative sobriety. “Exciting!” he responded to a question about his experience in office. “In fact, I am enjoying the work. It provides me an opportunity not just to serve but also to learn,” he added. The big question is: what has he learned? • Macaulay is on the editorial board of The Nation

National Conference, Tinubu and Presidency’s diatribe

HIS Presidency will perhaps go down in Nigeria’s history as the most averse to its people asking questions of it. Yet again I read with amusement, its response to legitimate questions posed by Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu on its proposed cryptic “constitutional conference or dialogue”. All the mainstream dailies carried screaming headlines such as “ Presidency, Tinubu in slugfest over conference “, “Presidency attacks Tinubu”, “Presidency, Tinubu clash over National Conference” etc and I thought to myself, what manner of Presidency is this ? For me where a whole institution of the presidency takes on a single individual (Tinubu), who made it clear he was merely stating his opinion (though his opinion was in line with that of many discerning Nigerians), apart from reducing its stature, it unwittingly was paying Tinubu a back hand compliment. It is even worse when its response to legitimate questions is a non sequitur in form of diatribes. One would have thought it was an opportunity for the presidency to further explain issues concerning the controversial “conference” but no. So let’s try again. It is often said that the devil is in the detail. Unfortunately it appears in this case there are no details and so it’s even more difficult to search for the devil even though you know he or it is in there somewhere, but search we must. Yes it appears the presidency has perfected the more you look the less you see format but we will continue to ask questions no matter whose ox is gored. Perhaps the most important question Tinubu asked which was never answered was the auspiciousness and timing of the conference. Why now? Common sense, logic and intellect do not agree with the planning and execution of two major, delicate and difficult projects in any country within one year. A national election and a national dialogue? How feasible are these? Even with the best of intentions, will the planning and execution of one not take away from the other? Or is this a mere smokescreen or subterfuge? Why is this coming at the time the President’s party is disintegrating and his chances of winning re-election are dimming by the day? At what point after years of playing the ostrich did the President change his mind about the desirability of a conference? Why is the outcome of the conference going back to the National Assembly for legislative imprimatur as the President has now told us, suggesting that the exercise could be a waste of time if the National Assembly

By Femi Gbajabiamila disagrees with its output. How then is it different from the constitutional amendment exercise we have just gone through which gulped several millions of naira? Pertinent questions that require answers. In looking at the history of several countries including the 13 colonies of the United States that have sat together to fashion how to live together, such conferences have been done at auspicious times and not during the pendency or imminence of an election. The best time for the conveying of such a conference that could have far reaching implications for the country would be the very first year after an election in this case between 2015 and 2016 and definitely not 2014 a year to elections and few months before party primaries, especially when you have an interested party in the outcome of the elections. There is a rat somewhere and it stinks to high heavens. Hear Mr President: “those who continue to say that the initiative is diversionary or aimed at promoting certain political ambitions are in error. Our sincere objective is to create an acceptable and workable platform for a national dialogue or conference that will help us to resolve the issues that still cause tension and friction in the polity, reinforce the ties that bind the countries many ethnic nationalities and ensure that Nigeria’s immense diversity continues to be a source of strength and greatness” Mr President, good talk but a year to a major election? Whilst the President’s statement sounded presidential and conciliatory, hear the other one of his aides: “We wish to state categorically that President Goodluck Jonathan has shown convincingly that he is a credible,

reliable and capable leader by his unprecedented achievements in such a short space of time. He most certainly does not flip flop as the opposition politician insinuates blah blah blah” Oh really? Now the closest attempt to address issues was made by Kingsley Kuku, the amnesty guy. He detailed accomplishments of the amnesty programme. I do not know Kuku and I have nothing against him but on this one he missed the point. Simply put; a drain pipe is a metaphor used in ferrying money out of the treasury or if one is to be more charitable a way to suck money from the system unnecessarily. The point he missed is that even where you are able to show that certain things have been done in the name of amnesty, such does not negate the “drain pipe” fact. To put it in ordinary language easy to understand, if I am able to show as a governor that I have bought syringes for all government hospitals in my state at the cost of 500 naira when the actual cost was 10 naira per syringe, does the fact that all hospital now boast of syringes negate the fact that the programme of syringe purchase is a drain pipe? Ditto Sure P. If our President is desirous of having a national dialogue, I can give him some suggestions on major critical areas demanding dialogue which will be less impetuous and which can be started and finished within three months with no implication on the coming elections. He can start by convening a national dialogue on education (ASUU strike), Power, non implementation of budgets, oil theft and a national dialogue on our true finances as a country and whether or not the country which has been unable to pay its bills or allocate states their revenue for three months is broke. Hon Gbajabiamila is the leader of opposition, House of Representatives

‘If our President is desirous of having a national dialogue, I can give him some suggestions on major critical areas demanding dialogue which will be less impetuous and which can be started and finished within three months with no implication on the coming elections. He can start by convening a national dialogue on education (ASUU strike), Power, non implementation of budgets, oil theft and a national dialogue on our true finances as a country and whether or not the country which has been unable to pay its bills or allocate states their revenue for three months is broke’

THE NATION MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2013

COMMENTS

OR very obvious reasons, the impending national conference will continue to dominate public discourse for quite some time. Not only will the processes leading to its final convocation be contentious, the conference proper promises no less rancorous. The envisaged controversy was given fillip when President Jonathan indicated in his Independence Day broadcast, that he too was uncertain on its appropriate nomenclature, which he then charged the committee to figure out. Since then, debate has centred on whether it should be a sovereign national conference or just a national conference with many rooting for the sovereign variant. Issues were also raised regarding the incongruity in having a sovereign national conference with all the democratic structures in place. The argument is that you cannot have two sovereigns at the same time. But Jonathan seemed to have responded to this dilemma when he said last week that the decisions of the conference will be subjected to the national and state assemblies for ratification and incorporation into the constitution. For this to be realized, he then urged Nigerians to persuade their representatives at the national and state assemblies to get the recommendations of the conference incorporated into the constitution. Expectedly, the proposal has attracted a wide gamut of reactions. Most of those who spoke, faulted the proposition on the grounds

‘The challenge is how to resolve the myriads of these destabilizing tendencies taking copious inputs from the people without compromising the powers of the National Assembly on constitutional amendment. It is a matter of striking a balance between the resolutions of the conference and the powers conferred on the National Assembly to amend the constitution’

Emeka OMEIHE 08121971199 email: EmekaOmeihe@yahoo.com

Conference decisions that it amounted to another constitutional amendment process and therefore an avoidable duplication. They find it difficult to fathom how reflective of the decisions of the people the conference outcome would become if it is subjected to these assemblies that are largely peopled by those who represent the status quo. And why dissipate energy, valuable time and resources if the conference is another name for constitutional amendment which the National Assembly is currently handling, they seemed to be asking. These posers seem to have further reinforced scepticisms by the national leader of the All Progressives Congress APC, Senator Bola Tinubu on the motive of the conference. It would seem the envisaged conference may turn out a subterfuge to buy time especially given the rancour generated by Jonathan’s political ambition. But some others have argued that there is no way you can get the decisions of the conference into the constitution without subjecting them to the body constitutionally charged with that duty. Senate committee chairman on information, Enyinnaya Abaribe said the president’s position was proper and in tune with the fact that the National Assembly is the custodian of Nigerian sovereignty. At stake here again, is the location of the sovereign powers of the people in a democratic setting. In this column last week, I had dwelt extensively on the larger philosophical and conceptual issues encapsulated in this argument. We do not intend to go over them again. But suffice it to say at this point that the argument on the location of the sovereign powers of the people in a democracy would have been superfluous if elected persons, extant democratic institutions and structures had

been truly reflective of the collective will of their constituents. That Nigerians are wary of subjecting the decisions of the conference to the national and state assemblies is indicative of the dissonance and of loss of faith in the capacity of these assemblies to reflect the will of their supposed constituents. That is the tragedy of the contraption of democracy we purport to practice on these shores. It would appear it is this lack of synergy between the collective interests of the Nigerian people and their elected representatives that accentuates feelings for the nationalities to once again, take their destinies on their hands. We should be seriously worried why people do not have confidence in the capacity of the assemblies to reflect and represent the collective will of the Nigerian nationalities. It is because the Nigerian nation in a strict sense of it does not exist at present. In its place, what we have are ethnic nationalities that compete with the central authority for the loyalty of the citizens. With this competition comes mistrust and suspicion. The problem is further accentuated by the structural advantages which some sections of this country enjoy over and above others. These are reflected in inequalities in the spread of states, local governments and electoral constituencies among the zones. Because the central authority is largely seen in terms of what the constituents stand to grab from it, forging national consensus on vexed issues of our federal order has been largely illusory. Issues are perceived from the prism of how they satisfy the predilections of the primordial groups. It is difficult to build national consensus in such a prevailing circumstance. Little wonder nation

building has largely remained a mirage. In the issue of subjecting the decisions of the conference to the national and state assemblies, the suspicion is that these differences will again come into play. That is where a sovereign national conference derives its greatest lure. But its problem lies in the fact that the sovereign powers of our people are now vested in subsisting democratic structures irrespective of whatever reservations we may have against them. This fact is not in doubt. It is also not in doubt that the residue of the sovereign powers of this country lies with its peoples. But much progress will not be made in the present circumstance if we continue to dissipate energy on the structure of the conference. The fact of the matter is that there are contentious issues of our federal being that needed re-engineering if we must make progress as a united nation. A way has to be fashioned out to get some of these trashed out such that they do not continue to hinder our development. Ironically, the National Assembly has not shown enough capacity to get these issues resolved. Jonathan has now told us that he has no place for a sovereign national conference. That is his message and the way it is handled will determine the success or lack of it of the conference. The challenge is how to resolve the myriads of these destabilizing tendencies taking copious inputs from the people without compromising the powers of the National Assembly on constitutional amendment. It is a matter of striking a balance between the resolutions of the conference and the powers conferred on the National Assembly to amend the constitution. Now we know the mind of Jonathan, it is only proper we channel our creative energies to the best ways of taking maximum advantage of the seemingly difficult circumstance we found ourselves. The alternative is to spurn the entire idea. But that will not be in the best interest of our people. It is at this point that one considers the intervention by a leading lawyer, Awa Kalu SAN very apt. He had suggested that a way out is to subject any new or radical idea to a referendum. If approved, it will be sent to the National Assembly which will then have no power to override any decision taken at the referendum because power belongs to the people. It will take time. But if there is genuine commitment, it is realisable because some consensus already exists on some of these issues.

VIEW FROM ABROAD

AGOS — It was dusk and I was on my way home from Abeokuta, a vibrant city in southwest Nigeria. My driver had switched off the car’s airconditioning so I could open the windows and feel the breeze. He was weaving between potholes in the road when suddenly, the scene ahead changed. A large truck had pulled out carelessly onto the road, knocking a car straight into the median. That stretch of road is notoriously dangerous, not just because of traffic accidents but also because of armed robbers. It’s for that reason that I suppressed my natural instinct to stop and help. I was filled with guilt as we passed the wrecked car, because I knew that if the young man at the wheel had been badly injured, there was only a small chance that he would get the emergency treatment he needed. I knew this because I am a trauma doctor and the founder of West Africa’s first indigenous air ambulance service. Nigeria, a country of more than 170 million people, has no organized trauma response system and no formal training for paramedics. Injured people are often taken to the hospital in a car or minibus or draped across the motorcycle of a good Samaritan, sometimes several hours after the accident has occurred. Even if the patient does reach a local hospital, it may not have the skilled staff or equipment needed. (There are only a few that do, and there are huge distances between them.) Most of those who are seriously injured probably bleed to death. So I couldn’t help it when, a few moments later, I said “Stop the car, please.” I grabbed one of our emergency response bags from my trunk and walked back. I tried to concentrate on the types of injuries the driver might have rather than how unsafe it was walking on that stretch of road, particularly in the evening. Was he bleeding? Was he conscious? The crash scene had quickly attracted some of the people who typically gather around accidents in Nigeria. Bystanders were pulling the driver out of the car. Before long they were joined by a barefoot “prophet” in a white robe. No Nigerian accident scene is complete without a prophet who commands everyone to stand by while he loudly predicts that the patient will stop bleeding. The patient is often drained of blood by the time the prophecy is complete. Sadly, these prophets are the best hope that many Nige-

Africa’s trauma epidemic By Ola Orekunrin rians have. Trauma has become a silent epidemic in Africa, an epidemic that will only spread as the economy grows. More and more Africans are buying cars and working in heavy and dangerous industries. At the same time, infrastructure is poor, safety laws lax, and cars badly maintained. Sub-Saharan Africa has the world’s smallest number of motorized vehicles but the highest rate of road traffic fatalities, with Nigeria and South Africa leading the pack. The World Bank predicts that in the next two years, road accidents could be the biggest killer of African children between 5 and 15. By 2030, according to the Global Burden of Disease study, road accidents will be the fifth leading cause of death in the developing world, ahead of malaria, tuberculosis and H.I.V. If you add to these numbers the injuries caused by violent crime and communal conflict, then you have all the ingredients for a public health emergency. And yet, trauma receives only a tiny fraction of the attention and money given to these three infectious diseases. Every health care conference I attend focuses on vaccines, treatment and training to combat the infamous “triple epidemic.” Over the last decade, billions of dollars have poured into Africa with the laudable aim of defeating these killer diseases. But that most basic killer, injury, remains neglected. Part of the problem is that the solutions are so complex. It’s easy to quantify interventions like the number of AIDSfighting anti-retrovirals or mosquito nets distributed. Pills can be counted, flown in on cargo planes and delivered to large numbers of people in a short time period. But a pill would do very little for someone on a rural road in Nigeria with a head injury and a collapsed lung. We need to put in place systems to provide lifesaving care for accident victims. They need to be moved to a fully equipped hospital — one with X-ray machines, CT scanners, a burn unit — within the space of 45 minutes. We need at least 10 of these proper hospitals. We need to improve our roads, and we need a high-quality ambulance

system to drive on them. And we need paramedic schools — like the one my company is helping to open, the first of its kind in Nigeria. Some countries in other parts of the world have come up with proactive solutions. In Israel, a group called United Hatzalah helps volunteer emergency workers get quickly to accident sites, by “ambucycle” or on foot, if necessary. But Africa’s challenge will require an African response — and international support. On the road that night, I quickly assessed that the young man needed urgent medical attention. I gave him oxygen and inserted a makeshift airway. I noted that he probably had internal bleeding and did my best to stem whatever external bleeding I could detect. A passing taxi then transported him to the nearest hospital. He had a fighting chance. But too many injured Nigerians, forgotten on the side of the road, do not. It’s time the global public-health community paid attention to Africa’s urgent need for emergency medical care. • Orekunrin a trauma doctor and managing director of Flying Doctors Nigeria, contributed this piece for International New York Times

‘Some countries in other parts of the world have come up with proactive solutions. In Israel, a group called United Hatzalah helps volunteer emergency workers get quickly to accident sites, by “ambucycle” or on foot, if necessary. But Africa’s challenge will require an African response — and international support’

THE NATION MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2013

BUSINESS

THE NATION MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2013

THE NATION

E-mail:- bussiness@thenationonlineng.net

THE CEO

Banks ‘re holding too much treasury bills, bonds, says Sanusi -P. 27 News Briefing ‘Banks creating businessesforAMCON’ THE poor risk management structures in many banks have made it easy for them to create businesses for the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON), Managing Director, Financial Institutions Training Centre (FITC), Lucy Newman, has said.

- Page 26

PENGASSAN, ConocoPhillips tangle over severance pay THE Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has drawn the battle line between it and the management from the country.

- Page 29

Insurers pay N81.3m in fines, penalties INSURANCE operators paid N81.3 million as fines and penalties during the year which ended December 31, 2011 to the regulatory authority, the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) as against N70.3 million paid in 2010.

We want a SONCAP programme that would serve its purpose; a programme that would be dynamic, where all the identified loopholes would be effectively plugged thereby making it difficult for the plaque of substandard products to continue to dominate the Nigerian business space. -Dr Joseph Odumodu, DG, SON

ISSUES

Economy groans under oil theft -P. 32

Currency in circulation drops to N1.4tr, says CBN

HE volume of cur rency-in-circulation dropped to N1.44 trillion in August, representing a drop of about one per cent against the July figure, according to the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) Economy report released at the weekend. The report said the development relative to the preceding month, reflected the fall in currency outside banks and vault cash, respectively. It added that the total deposits at the apex bank amounted to N6.5 trillion, indicating an increase of 7.5 per cent above the level as at the end of the preceding month. The development reflected, largely, the increase in commercial banks’ and Federal Government’s deposits, which more than offset the fall in private sector deposits. It said the introduction of

By Collins Nweze

the 50 per cent Cash Reserve Requirement (CRR) on all public sector deposits in August, precipitated volatilities in most financial market indicators, stating that there was a reduction in the level of liquidity in the system due to the sterilisation of N896.43 billion and the delay in the release of fiscal allocation, which did not impact on the banking system liquidity until August 26, 2013. It said the government’s bonds and treasury bills were issued at the primary market on behalf of the Debt Management Office (DMO) for the fiscal operations of the Federal Government, adding that the provisional data indicated that the total value of money market assets outstanding as at end of August 2013, was N6.5 trillion, indicating a

decline of 0.1 per cent, in contrast with the increase of 0.3 per cent at the end of the preceding month. This development was attributed largely, to the 4.4 per cent and 9.4 per cent decrease in Bankers Acceptances and Commercial Paper, respectively. “The value of Commercial Paper (CP) held by the commercial banks at end-August stood at N16.59 billion, indicating a decline of 9.4 per cent, compared with the value of N18.30 billion at the end of the preceding month,” the report said. It attributed the development to the 18.6 per cent decline in investment in CP by the merchant banks during the review period, “thus CP constituted 0.25 per cent of the total value of money market assets outstanding, at the end of the review period, compared with 0.28 per cent at the end of the preced-

ing month.” The report said government bonds of three and 20year tenors were offered in the market during the review month. The total amount offered, subscribed to and allotted stood at N70 billion, N152.42 billion and N70 billion, respectively, it said, adding that the bid rates on the two tranches ranged from nine per cent to 15.69 per cent and the marginal rates were 13.05 per cent and 13.49 per cent for the threeand 20–year tenors, respectively. Also, the CBN report said the 20-year bond was reopened with time to maturity of 16 years 11 months, while the three-year bond was a new issue. In the preceding month, the five- and 20-year tenors were re-opened at marginal rates of 13.45 per cent and 13.79 per cent. The amount offered, subscribed to, and allotted was N55 bil-

‘Beware of imported poultry products’

- Page 35

By Daniel Essiet

DATA STREAM

COMMODITY PRICES Oil -$107/barrel Cocoa-$2,686.35/metric ton Coffee - ¢132.70/pound Cotton - ¢95.17pound Gold -$1,800/troy ounce Rubber -¢159.21pound MARKET CAPITALISATIONS NSE -N12.1 trillion JSE -Z5.112trillion NYSE -$10.84 trillion LSE -£61.67 trillion RATES Inflation -8.4% Treasury Bills -7.08% Maximum lending -22.42% Prime lending -15.87% Savings rate -2% 91-day NTB -15% Time Deposit -5.49% MPR -12% Foreign Reserve $46.9b FOREX CFA -0.2958 EUR -206.9 £ -242.1 $ -156 ¥ -1.9179 SDR -238 RIYAL -40.472

lion, N135.93 billion and N55 billion, respectively. The report indicated that total assets of the discount houses stood at N231.73 billion at the end of August, showing a decline of 9.2 per cent below the level at end of July, 2013. The report explained that the development was accounted for, largely, by the 18.9 per cent and 1.4 per cent decline in claims on the federal and state governments, respectively. Correspondingly, the decline in total liabilities was attributed, largely, to the 18.9 per cent and 28.2 per cent fall in other amount owed to commercial banks and other liabilities, respectively. Discount houses investment in Federal Government securities of less than 91-day maturity decreased by 60 per cent to N29.55 billion and accounted for 17.0 per cent of their total deposit liabilities. Thus, investment in Federal Government securities was 43 percentage points below the prescribed minimum level of 60 per cent, the report added.

• From left: Group Managing Director, GTI Capital, Mr Abubakar Lawal; Head, Transformation and Change, Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Mr Olumide Lala; Vice President, Emerging Markets, International Commerce Management Limited (ICML) United Kingdom, Samuel Retiola; President, ICML, UK, John Kavvouras and Managing Director, GTI Securities, Mr Tunde Oyekunle, during the visit of ICML to the NSE.

IFC issues $76m debt instrument in Nigerian domestic debt market

THE International Finance Corporation (IFC) has issued a Naira denominated debt instrument worth US$76 million in the Nigerian domestic debt market. Debt instruments are paper or electronic obligations that allow the issuing party to raise funds by promising to repay a lender in accordance with the terms of an agreed contact.Debt instruments include notes, bonds, certificates, mortgages, leases or other agreements between a lender and a borrower. They are also ways by which markets and participants easily transfer ownership of debt obligations from one party

From Nduka Chiejina (Assistant Editor), Abuja

to another. As a result of this development, the IFC has established a benchmark for other international bond issues to tap what it calls “the growing Naira bond market”. The Nation gathered that this was in response to the favourable domestic market environment created by the Debt Management Office (DMO) for the private sector. Already, 20 Nigerian firms have raised long-term capital of over N200 billion from the domestic debt market between 2005 and 2011 to

fund the development of the real sector. The DMO, on its part, believes that opportunities exist for growth in terms of number of and diversity of debt issuers, range of instruments, size and investor base. For the external debt market issues, the creation of a sovereign benchmark in the International Capital Market (ICM) has encouraged four banks to issue Eurobonds between January 2011 and July, this year worth US$1.45 billion. The banks are Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank), US$500 million, 7.5 per cent coupon

with five years tenor; Access bank, US$3530 million, 7.25 per cent coupon also with five years tenor; Fidelity bank, US$300 million, 6.87 per cent coupon, five years tenor and FirstBank, US$300 million, 8.25 per cent coupon with seven years tenor. By opening access to funding opportunities in both the domestic and external debt markets, the DMO wants to strengthen and deepen the FGN bond market for enhanced liquidity through the continued issuance of benchmark bonds and the introduction of other varieties of debt instruments such as securities lending, bond switches and inflation-linked bonds into the domestic bond market.

HE Poultry Associa tion of Nigeria (PAN) Lagos State has warned against the continued consumption of imported poultry products because of the various health hazards associated with it. Its Chairman, Dr Dotun Agbojo, expressed concern about the conditions under which smugglers ferry the products, describing them as unacceptable and substandard. He said the products were transported under unhygienic conditions, warning that those conditions were could trigger health problems for consumers. He said though poultry products had been banned, people still found ways to smuggle them in. The vehicles used to smuggle these products, he added, usually don’t have temperature-monitoring devices to keep them at the appropriate temperature. According to him, the environments under which poultry products are packaged expose the products to chemical and toxic contamination harmful to human health. He emphasised the importance of cold storage in the food chain continuum and the desired attention needed to give to the high-risk activity in the food supply chain to safeguard public health and safety.

THE NATION MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2013

BUSINESS NEWS Flight Schedule MONDAY - FRIDAY

LAGOS – ABUJA Departure Arrival 1. Aero 06.50 08.10 2. Associated 07.00 09.30 3. Air Nigeria 07.00 08.20 4. IRS 07.00 08.20 7. Arik 07.15 08.15 7. Chanchangi 07.15 9. Air Nigeria 08.15 09.35 10. Aero 08.45 10.05 11. Arik 09.15 10.15 12. Chanchangi 10.00 11.00 13. IRS 11.15 12.35 14. Aero 12.20 13.30 15. Air Nigeria 13.25 14.45 16. Chanchangi 13.30 14.30 17. Arik 13.45 14.45 18. IRS 14.00 15.20 19. Aero 14.10 15.30 20. Air Nigeria 14.50 16.10 21. Chanchangi 15.30 16.30 22. Arik 15.50 16.50 23. Aero 16.00 17.20 24. IRS 16.30 17.50 25. Arik 16.50 17.50 26. Chanchangi 17.30 18.30 27. Air Nigeria 17.35 18.55 29. Air Nigeria (T/TH) 18.30 19.50 20. Arik 18.45 19.45 31. Aero 19.20 20.40

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.

LAGOS – BENIN Arik 07.30 Associated 08.30 Aero 10.50 Arik 11.45 Associated 13.00 Aero 14.25 Arik 15.30 Associated 16.00

1. 2. 3. 4.

Arik Aero Arik Aero

1. Arik 2. Aero 1. 2. 3. 4.

LAGOS – CALABAR 07.30 11.20 12.50 16.00 LAGOS – JOS 10.55 11.15

LAGOS – KADUNA Aero 08.00 Chanchangi 10.00 Arik 10.00 Arik 15.10

By Collins Nweze

poration be stopped to curb moral hazard and fiscal risks. The IMF Executive Directors “recommended winding down the operations of the asset management company to curb moral hazard and fiscal risks. Directors welcomed the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN’s) commitment to address supervisory and regulatory gaps identified in the Financial Stability Assessment Update, particularly the need to strengthen crossborder supervision and the regime against money laundering and terrorism financing,” the article said. But Bismark Rewane, Managing Director, Financial Derivatives Company Limited, said AMCON was set up to revive and stabilise industry through the purchase of NPLs. “As at December 31, 2011 the NPL ratio had fallen to five per cent, enabling the banks to focus on lending. In addition, AMCON injected fresh capital into eight Nigerian banks, five of which have entered into successful

mergers. As a result of the recapitalisation of banks, it currently owns Mainstreet Bank, Enterprise Bank and Keystone Bank. The establishment of AMCON has also averted a potential financial disaster,” he said. Rewane said apart from the resolution of manifested risks and toxic assets roughly estimated at $25.2 billion, AMCON was also considered an essential part of the institutional framework for preventing and developing early response to isolated pockets of risks that could easily become contagious or viral. He said the question of a moral hazard arises, if the defaulting operators pay a less than punitive price which encourages deviant behaviour in the future. He said the price at which AMCON is purchasing toxic assets is so punitive that no rationale banker or operator will sell assets to it except as a last resort, adding that stigma of being an AMCON client in the domestic and international business community is both a fiscal and social burden.

08.50 12.40 14.10 17.20 12.15 12.45 09.10 11.00 11.10 16.20

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

LAGOS – OWERRI Aero 07.30 Arik 07.30 Air Nigeria 13.40 Arik 14.00 Arik 16.30

08.40 08.40 14.55 15.10 17.40

1. 2. 3. 4.

Arik Aero Arik Aero

LAGOS – WARRI 08.15 11.50 11.55 14.55

09.1 12.50 12.55 15.55

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

LAGOS – KANO Air Nigeria 07.10 IRS 08.00 Arik 12.20 IRS 14.00 IRS 18.15

08.50 09.45 14.00 15.45 19.55

LAGOS – OWERRI 07.20 14.00 16.30

08.30 15.10 17.40

LAGOS – MAIDUGURI 1. IRS 11.15 13.15 2. Arik 15.50 18.00 LAGOS – ILORIN 1. Overland 07.15 2. Arik (M/T/TH/F) 17.30

HE poor risk management structures in many banks have made it easy for them to create businesses for the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON), Managing Director, Financial Institutions Training Centre (FITC), Lucy Newman, has said. Speaking at a training for banks’directors in Lagos, she said there is need for the lenders to upgrade their risk management structures, to reduce the volume of loans being sold to the corporation. Banks are expected to retain a maximum of five per cent of their non-performing loans (NPLs), and sale the balance to AMCON. So far, the corporation has acquired over 10,000 NPLs worth N3.5 trillion. Before its formation, NPLs ratio in the industry was over 35 per cent. However, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in its last year’s Article IV Consultation advised the Federal Government that the cor-

08.30 09.10 11.50 12.45 13.40 15.20 16.30 16.40

LAGOS – PORT HARCOURT (CIVIL) 1. Aero 07.15 08.35 2. Arik 07.15 08.35 3. Arik 09.00 10.20 4. Aero 10.50 12.30 5. Arik 11.40 13.00 6. Air Nigeria 12.00 13.10 7. IRS 13.30 15.00 8. Arik 14.00 15.20 9. Air Nigeria 16.00 17.10 10 Arik 16.10 17.30 11. Aero 16.15 17.30 12. Arik 17.10 18.30

1. Arik 2. Arik 3. Arik

‘Banks creating businesses for AMCON’

08.00 18.00

LAGOS – ABUJA SAT/SUN Arik 7.15; 10.20; 2.20; 5.20pm – 7.30; 9.15; 10.20; 2.20; 4.50; 6.45 Aero 07.30; 09.35; 13.10; 14.50; 20.20 – 07.30; 09.35; 13.10; 14.50; 20.20 Air Nigeria 08.15; 14.30; 17.15; 18.30 – 08.15; 13.30; 14.30; 17.15; 18.30

• Akinsete Sunday, Adedoyin Kazeem, 1st place winners in the Microsoft 9jApps Competition (Windows Phone Category) and Dele Akinsade, Developer and Platform Evangelism Lead, Microsoft West, East and Central Africa and Bukola Akinfaderin, 2nd place winner at the prize presentation of 9jApps competition in Lagos.

More employers embrace pension scheme • 1048 get certificate of compliance By Toba Agboola

ORE employers are em bracing the contributory pension scheme. As at October 2, the National Pension Commission (PenCom) issued certificates of compliance to 1,048 employers. Experts say this is an improvement in the last two years. For instance while 852 employers got it in 2011, 559 received it last year. Although the certificates are issued only to organisations seeking to bid for Federal Government’s contracts, pension operators say the increase is an indication that more employers are obeying the pension law. In compliance with the provision in Section 16 (6) (d) of the Public Procurement Act 2007, any supplier, contractor or consultant bidding or soliciting contract or business from in any Federal Government Ministry, Department and Agency must fulfil all its obligations on pensions. PenCom is required to issued certificates to such companies. Compliance with the Pension Act, at minimum, include ensuring that all employees open Retirement Savings Accounts (RSAs) with the Pension Fund Administrator of their choice; remitting both employer and employee pension contributions to the appropriate Pension Fund Custodian not later than seven days from the date of payment of salaries; and transferring all pension funds and assets prior to the commencement of the Pension Act to licensed pension operators. The names of the affected companies are pasted on the commission’s website, after having provided evidences of implementation of the Contributory Pension Scheme. PenCom explained that the list is publicised to guide to Federal Government’s agencies.

AU, ICASA seek unified telecoms’ regulation for Africa

HE African Union (AU) and the Independent Communi cation Authority of South Africa (ICASA) have called for the harmonisation of telecoms regulations across the continent to further strenghten the growth and development of the sector. Programme Co-ordinator, AU, Alice Koech and General Manager, Consumer Affairs, ICASA, Phosa Mashangoane, argued that member countries of the AU should not compete but cooperate, collaborate and ensure solutions are found to the common problems confronting the continent. While Mashangoane spoke on the sideline with The Nation at the justconcluded Annual Conference of African Telecom Regulators on Consumer Affairs, in Lagos, Koech made a presentation on harmonis-

By Lucas Ajanaku

ing regulatory regimes in Africa at the forum. Mashangoane said the regulatory frameworks in the continent have to be harmonised for effective and efficient delivery of services to the consumers. According to him, the time has come for member countries to stop seeing one another as competitors and collaborate to develop the continent for the good of all, adding that opportunities such as the forum provided by the Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC) must be sustained. Koech said the major development in regulatory environment include the liberalisation of the international (voice) gateways; converged licensing; and technology neutral spectrum licensing

According to her, urgent regulatory interventions are required owing to the emergence of service neutral licensing which would allow a single ICT provider to provide both ICT and broadcasting services such as Zuku in Kenya which provides phone, internet and TV services. Other reasons she cited for regulatory “intervention are need for market based spectrum licensing for better maximisation of spectrum utilisation; making available the digital dividend spectrum to foster broadband in particular in remote/rural areas; and equitable access to marine optical fiber cables by all countries in particular landlocked countries.” What needs to be done to accelerate harmonisation include

more interaction with the outside world such as the International Telecomunication Union (ITU) to learn of prevailing and most importantly emerging best practices and engaging in “robust and more frequent regional and continental ministerial meetings to adopt and review performance of harmonisation.” On the role that could played by stakeholders, she said they could identify areas for regulatory harmonisation through forums such as this one; identify best practices; keep in touch with the world developments; develop harmonised regulations; negotiate and develop action plans in good faith; follow through on commitments and targets; and develop and implement a monitoring and evaluation mechanism

LADOL votes $350m for Egina FPSO project

HE Lagos Deep Offshore Lo gistics Base (LADOL) has ear marked $350 million for the execution of its work in the floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) vessel for oil production from the Total’s operated Egina field. LADOL is handling the project in joint venture (JV) partnership with Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI). Coincidentally Samsung was awarded the main contract scope which allows it to perform over 80 percent of the FPSO work scope that cannot be executed in Nigeria in home country Korea, which include the FPSO hull, over 20,000mt of fabrication, procurement and in-

By Emeka Ugwuanyi

stallation of major equipment. LADOL was slated to carry out between 1,500mt and 3000mt worth of fabrication job for the FPSO but following the partnership between it and Samsung, which was consummated a few years ago, Samsung proposed to do 10,000mt fabrication job at LADOL Base in Lagos. The proposal attracted some criticisms bordering on capacity and expertise. The Managing Director of LADOL, Dr Amy Jadesimi, told The Nation that Samsung is a world class company stressing the painstaking processes and due

diligences that were carried out to ensure that the facility meets international standard before the joint was sealed. She explained that the criticisms that trailed Samsung’s proposal were not constructive because those criticising the idea are those that don’t want change, those that want status quo to remain because they benefit from it to the detriment of the country and the industry. She said LADOL is the only 100 per cent Nigerian logistics base owner in Nigeria and the only one to develop a facility from a zero value Greenfield Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) site into a $500

million world-class base. She also said that contrary to allegations of lack of capacity, expertise and non-approvals by government and regulatory agencies levelled against the company, LADOL has got all the necessary approvals from Nigerian Export and Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA), Nigerian Ports Authority. Besides the series of approvals, she said LADOL had to sign nineteen separate agreements with Samsung over the three years with the active involvement of seven separate world-class Nigerian and International lawyers, financial advisors and consultants.

THE NATION MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2013

THE CEO Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Governor Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, says he is confident his policies will stand the test of time even after his exit from the apex bank. The CBN chief who spoke in Washington DC, USA to a cross section of Nigerian reporters during the just-concluded International Monetary Fund/World Bank meeting, emphasised the need to strengthen our institutions, among other isues. SIMEON EBULU, Deputy Business Editor, was there. Excerpts:

HY CBN put a halt to dollar payment You know the interesting thing about our country is that, we try to be an island in the world. If you are in the UK and somebody transfers money to you from the US, in what currency do you get paid in London? You get pounds. If you’re in Japan, you get paid in the Japanese yen. There’s no where in the world and because you get a transfer that you insist on being paid in that currency. The Central Bank did introduce this policy of asking banks to pay in dollars, because there was a time that the banks used to cheat people and pay them in a rate that was lower than the exchange rate. Now we’ve said it very clearly that the exchange rate must be the interbank rate at the date of the exchange and the banks must display that rate in their banking halls. I don’t see how we are going to continue with a policy that is not consistent with global practices. We can’t continue importing dollars and basically saying that we don’t have confidence in our own currency. It’s like the argument that we should disburse the Federal Accounts Allocation (FAAC) in dollars. Tell me one country in the world that basically distributes its resources in foreign currency, why should Nigeria be the only one, why are we different, why is it that if you send money to someone in Nigeria, who is going to spend it in Nigeria, he should not be paid in the local currency? The thinking here is that it is just a small transaction of $500, $1000 Then let them tell us one country in the world that allows it. It’s like all you journalist that write we should distribute FAAC in dollars. But just tell me one country in the world that basically distributes its reserves in foreign currency. Why should Nigeria be the only one? What is the logic and why are we different? If you go to Ghana you get paid in Cedi, and in the francophone countries you get paid in cfa. So why should your uncle or aunty living in Nigeria and who would spend naira, should not be paid the naira equivalent of the currency you sent, insisting on being paid in dollars. It is not right. On realtors that seek payment in dollars First of all, it is illegal. Anybody that refuses to accept the naira as legal tender, is committing an offence. I don’t think anybody would want to do that. What I think they might do is index their rents in dollars and use the exchange rate and accept the naira, but anyone who says I will not accept naira for payment, saying I want to be paid in foreign currency, is committing an offence. On Maritime operators that deal in foreign currencies They are covered by law. The law allows them to receive their duties in foreign currency On his exit stance First of all, I think no particular individual should make himself indispensable. The institution is far more important than the person managing the institution. I believe that people should be able to build institutions that believe in your vision and you are comfortable enough to walk away from the job. This is because nobody will be happy to have his legacies wiped away af-

•Sanusi

Banks ‘re holding too much treasury bills, bonds, says Sanusi Profile

Institutions attended:

Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria and International University of Africa, Khartoum

Qualification:

BSc in Economics and Islamic law

Previous position:

Group Managing Director/CEO, FirstBank

Present position:

Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria

Experience:

Over 28 years

ter he has left. So if you are comfortable to walk away from the job, it means you have built the right institution that has been sufficiently influenced by the thinking and strategies you have left behind. I think that the CBN has established itself as an institution that is strongly committed to price stability and nobody in the system would be prepared to play with that system. The Central Bank has committed itself to protecting depositors rather than shareholders and management of banks. It is committed to strong corporate governance and I also believe that the Central Bank has equally proved

its credential as a bank committed to development with selective interventions. We have also proved ourselves as an institution committed to payment system transformation and financial inclusion. These are broad strategic thrust that the Board of Directors of the bank has committed itself over the years to formulating. We have four Deputy Governors who were part of the policy formulation process who are committed to sustainability if this vision, and I do not think that the movement of the Governor would change the direction of our vision.

I also think that once you set a standard, the market expects you to sustain the policies, the depositors and other stakeholders expect you to maintain a certain standard. This is not saying it is going to be easy, but it is important you choose a Governor who would continue to defend the independence of the Central Bank. But I don’t think the solution is for people to set up institutions that once they are not there, things will begin to go wrong. We should actually endeavour to build up systems where we can watch from a distance the foundation we have laid being built on, by our successors. On sustainability of his policies after his exit Institution building is an on-going process, and I will give you an example. The CBN Act of 2007, established the basis for a truly independent and an autonomous central bank, so that justifies all the regulations we’ve had, all the resolutions, including the establishment of the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON). AMCON is an institution for the resolution of banking crisis, and ensuring that the banks continue to play long after I’ve gone. A number of the resolutions we’ve had revolve •Continued on page 28

THE NATION MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2013

THE CEO

Banks ‘re holding too much treasury bills, bonds, says Sanusi and that fund is premised on our recognition that the micro finance industry which started as a scheme for the poorest people, has been too commercialised that those for whom the institutions are set up, are actually paying the highest rate of interest. They are actually paying unacceptable rate of interest and all over the world, people who borrow from microfinance banks finally end up in debt traps they often find difficult to exit from. So what we are doing with the fund is providing the micro finance institutions with long-term low interest financing that will enable them provide low interest lending to the poor. So, a poor man in the village who wants to borrow N150,000, does not need to pay 48 per cent interest to the lender or even the 22 per cent that the banks are charging. But he can borrow at nine per cent and by so doing, you can make it more developmental because no bank can lend to you at the rate the the MSMEs’ fund can lend to the poor people. In doing this, we have tried to bring the state governments into the picture so that they will know that if the CBN is giving money to an institution at between three-five per cent, it is not giving them money to lend to the poor at exorbitant rates. So it becomes possible for the agencies of that state government to monitor the interest being charged borrowers by onlending institutions. What we have realised in the CBN is that if you bring enough of the interested parties in lending to the poor, especially agriculture, you achieve results. We, therefore, tried to bring in the ministries, the farmers, bankers, the SMEs and all other stakeholders to a common platform to share knowledge and avoid duplication of responsibility, and you find out you will be making a lot of progress.

•Continued from page 27

around the code of corporate governance, transparency, these are institutional issues. An institution is not a building, it’s a set of rules around which systems operate. But I have made the point over and again, even President Obama said it here that Africa does not need strong men, but strong institutions. No matter how strong an institution is, a weak leader will make it weak. So we need to focus on the institutions and the individuals that run the institutions. Institution building is an on-going process and the CBN Act of 2006 actually established the basis for a truly independent Central Bank. So all the regulation and institution we have built are aimed at sustaining the achievements we have made. The Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) for instance, is an institution that ensures banking crisis resolution and the Act establishing it aims at ensuring that banks will continue to meet their obligations regardless of their level of solvency. Of these we have had regulation about code of corporate governance, transparency and these are institutions we have built to stabilize our banking industry. Remember that an institution is not a building, but a set of policies and rules around which systems operate. Even President Barrack Obama has said it that Africa does not need strongmen but strong institutions. So no matter how strong an institution is, a weak leader will make it weak, so while there is need to build strong institutions it is equally important the we focus on individuals that run the institutions so we can get the best out of the bargain. On borrowing I’ve heard this thing since 2009 that Sanusi has criminalised borrowing, I have not criminalised borrowing, but there’s criminal activity that can be cloned as borrowing. If I’m a bank MD and I set up a Special Purpose Vehicle without my name, and I get my staff to apply for loan, and I approve that loan, and take that money and buy a property in the UK without any intention of paying back, until after three years, somebody comes out and discovers, that was stealing money from depositors. It wasn’t a loan, it was never a loan. But if I come and borrow to do a business and the business goes bad and there’s a loss, it’s not a crime and I think people should make that distinction. Stability of Nigerian banks When we had a problem I came out to tell everybody, this is the level of capital, this is the level of non-performing loans, this is the level of negative capital. You know that AMCON is there and have put in a lot of money to capitalise the banks. You know that banks have excess liquidity, I’m even complaining that banks are holding too much of treasury bills and government bonds. What do you want me to say about the state of banks! On the economy This is how everyday, there is a story out there saying Nigeria’s economy is weak and the Finance Minister has to come out to say, Nigeria’s economy is not weak. Everyday, you force your Finance Minister to have to come out and tell the world that the economy is not weak, but you are telling the world your economy is weak. And it is not the way to analyse an economy. In fact I’ve never heard anyone say an economy is weak, in economics, it does not make sense. You have a growth rate of over six per cent, this growth is coming from agriculture, from whole and retail trade and services. We have been growing at that rate even though in the oil sector, there’s negative growth. That is resilience. No economy is perfect, the United States today is riddled with its debt crisis, it is 25 per cent of the world’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Nobody will say today that the US economy is weak. It’s on a growth trajectory, certainly not as robust as pre-crisis, but certainly better than anything they’ve seen since 2008. Yet they do have a huge deficit problem. These are challenges you discuss intelligently as an economist, but to make a blanket statement that the economy is weak, it could induce capital flight. I don’t think policy makers should come and say we don’t have problems. Corruption, oil theft and leakages, these are problems which people should talk about, but that is not the same as saying that an economy is weak. On the 2013 IMF/ World Bank conference. I think in the last few years that we’ve been

•Sanusi

‘So, a poor man in the village who wants to borrow N150,000, does not need to pay 48 per cent interest to the lender or even the 22 per cent that the banks are charging. But he can borrow at nine per cent and by so doing, you can make it more developmental because no bank can lend to you at the rate the the MSMEs’ fund can lend to the poor people’ having these meetings, the focus has been on the European financial crisis and financial systems. This year, there is a tremendous amount of focus on what is happening in the United States, the budgetary impasse. You know the possibility if they fail to reach an agreement, and chances of the US being forced into what is equivalent of a massive austerity programme if it defaults on its obligations, not necessarily a default on treasury bills, or bonds and some of its obligations. But I think there will be some prioritisation. But as things stand, I don’t see the US defaulting on treasury bills, but they can default on some of their domestic obligations. No one knows exactly how the markets are going to respond, but the real challenge for us in the frontier and emerging markets is what will be the impact on currency and capital flows. The government shutdown is more of domestic issue but the debt ceiling is the one that affects us because we hold our reserves in dollars, and we have invested in US treasury bills and bonds. And if there is a spike in those yields, we suffer a capital loss on the assets that we are holding and therefore we do expect the US government to resolve the matter in the interest of the global economy. (It was resolved last week) Impact of the US fiscal stand-off on the naira The naira is doing fine. Last week we traded at N160 .1 to the dollar, so we are still within our band of N155 plus+- three per cent which is the prevailing exchange rate. If you look at the other currencies in the emerging markets from December till now, the Indian Rupee, the Ghanaian Cedi, or South African Rand or the Brazilian Rea, you find that most have lost anything between 10-20 per cent. But the naira lost a maximum of 2.3 per cent, and is actually backed to being within the range. So it has been stable and we have done that without losing much in terms of our reserves. We have tried to increase the rate at which banks lend to each other and to customers, but that is the price you

pay to maintain stability. Containing US fiscal tapering and China’s slowdown Well there are a number of issues you should look at when appraising recent developments in the USA. While the development in the US might affect frontiers and emerging markets, they don’t affect all of them in exactly the same way. And you could see that emerging markets were affected far more heavily than the frontier markets, so the crash in the capital markets of Brazil and Asian markets was much more deeper than say, Africa and the rebound was even stronger. So in terms of volatility, there is a variation depending on the depth of the market. Secondly you would notice that countries that had current account deficit were affected far more than countries with current account surpluses. We do have current account surplus in Nigeria so there is a general understanding that we were better prepared to absorb some of the shocks than most of the countries that have current account deficits today. Even when we had pressure on the naira, that was not coming from a major reduction in capital flows . We did have a slowdown in capital flows and you would expect that if yields go up, that will not be too good for the current rates, because people will pull out of emerging markets, investors will pullout of commodities and then there will be depreciation in oil prices and there will be reduction in capitalisation. But I don’t think that given where our rates are and given our commitment to stable currency, we are as badly hit as some of the countries we are competing with for capital. We have strong growth but it remains vulnerable until we put in place strong measures that can make it sustainable SMEs The CBN does not lend to SMEs, but what we have done is to set up a N20billion MSMEs fund,

Financial Inclusion First of all, I would like to say that Nigeria was a founding member of the Alliance for Financial Inclusion and therefore we were always part of the international collaboration on this effort. We are the one that forced Mexico, and a member of the G24 to make sure the financial inclusion became a priority in the agenda of G24. From there it became a major element of global governance, so we have directly or indirectly played a role in bringing this to global limelight as far as financial inclusion is concerned. Locally too, we have been playing major roles in promoting financial inclusion because one key aspect of financial inclusion is financial literacy, working on the capability of people to act in enlightened manner as far as financial decisions are concerned. We have launched a financial inclusion strategy in Nigeria, we have also launched a Financial Literacy Document Steering Committee which has me (Sanusi) as chairman, with the CEOs of other regulatory agencies, including the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Pension Commission (PENCOM),National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), Nigerian Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) and also representatives of the Ministries of Information, Finance, Education and Communications, as members. The whole essence of that is to ensure that we build financial literacy in our education and enlightenment curriculum so that people have enough literacy to protect them. You have seen what we have done with cashless Nigeria which is still part of financial inclusion. The Micro Finance Fund is part of financial inclusion. Our focus on women empowerment is still part of financial inclusion. So we are far ahead of many countries even though we are not presently where Kenya is, as a country. But I can say that many countries are far behind us in the area of financial inclusion Relaxing the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) I will only relax monetary policy rate anytime we feel the conditions are right to do so. If you look at the CBN Act, our objectives are very clear. We were given responsibility for price stability, protecting external value of the currency which is exchange rate stability, maintaining the reserves of the country and for financial system stability. It is very easy to call the shots from the sidelines. Supposing today I decide to lower the interest rate, which means printing more money and a number of things will go wrong. May be the interest rate goes up and naira gets weak. When a portfolio investor suspects he is going to lose money as a result of weak naira, he will quickly pullout his investment. We have stability we often take for granted. In 2009 when I became Governor of the CBN, the stock market had lost 70 per cent of its value, many of the banks were about to collapse, the official exchange rate was N145, and at the Bureau De Change (BDC), it was being sold at N190. It is very easy when you have established stability for people to start screaming that you are holding exchange rate too tight. People want a stable exchange rate, low inflation, low interest rate. but I am not a magician.

THE NATION MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2013

L ABOUR

PENGASSAN, ConocoPhillips on war path over severance pay T HE Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has drawn the battle line between it and the management of ConocoPhillips over the oil firms planned divestment from the country. The workers want all labour issues, especially payment of severance package and sales bonus, setttled before they will accede to the outright sale of the oil firm’s assets in the country. ConocoPhillips, one of the major players in the upstream sector, is planning to divest from the country. The workers added that the company should be ready to settle all liabilities to Nigerians working in the firm. The workers said they were ready to use all legal means to en-

Stories by Toba Agboola

sure that ConocoPhillips respects the extant labour laws and other international conventions regarding severance of employees. In a statement, its National Public Relations Officer, Comrade Seyi Gambo, said the workers would not hesitate to shut the oil sector if their requests were not addressed. According to Gambo, the union is aware that ConocoPhillips would soon approach the Minister of Petroleum Resources and the Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) to seek approval for the sale of the oil blocks to

some oil companies, adding that the process for outright sale of its operations in the country too is expected to be completed before the year runs out. The union alleged that all expatriate workers of the oil major have been paid their entitlements and redeployed to other countries where the firm operates while neglecting its indigenous workers. The union stated: “The Minister of Petroleum Resources and the Group Managing Director of the NNPC should not grant the approval unless the management of ConocoPhillips engages PENGASSAN on the severance of its members before concluding the sale so as not to plunge the buy-

ers into industrial crisis. “We are not saying that ConocoPhillips cannot sell their properties or investments in Nigeria, all we are saying is that the company should engage PENGASSAN so as to discuss the severance package and sales bonus of our members in that company. The workers lamented that all the efforts they had made to ensure a peaceful resolution of the matter have been rebuffed. “We have made several efforts to ensure that the management of ConocoPhillips come to table for discussion, but they arefused to engage the union. Even the company refused to

honour the invitation of the Ministry of Petroleum Resources and the Ministry of Labour and Productivity. ConocoPhillips also bluntly refused to yield to the call of the 13-Man Committee set up by the Federal Government to look into various industrial issues affecting the oil and gas industry,” the workers alleged. The union alleged that they have letters to the Presidency, Federal Ministers of Petroleum Resources and its Labour and Productivity counterpart, GMD of NNPC, Director, Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR), the Senate President, Speaker of the House of Representatives and other stakeholders on the intention of the firm to short change its members in the outright sale of its oil blocks in the country.

•From right: Director, Human Resources, Seven-Up Bottling Company Plc, Mr Femi Mokikan; Secretary, Shop and Distributive Trade Employers Association, Mr Timothy Olawale, President, Shop and Distributive Trade Employers Association, Mr Victor Eburajolo and First Vice President of the association, Prince Yomi Ogunsowo, during the association’s conference in Lagos.

Labour reiterates opposition to minimum wage decentralisation

ABOUR leaders in the Southsouth geo-political zone have reiterated their opposition to the plan of the Federal Government to move minimum wage from the exlusive legislative list to concurrent legislative list. They also want the government to strengthen the electoral process to guarantee free and fair elections ahead of the 2015 general elections. Rising from a stakeholders’ meeting in Port Harcourt under the auspices of the Centre for Development and Support Initiative (CEDSI) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the labour leaders said the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) should be granted full autonomy, while

the Justice Uwais report on electoral reforms should be adopted. They also said the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation should be granted full independence, while the issue of social security for Nigerians should be enshrined in the constitution. Others include: grant of full autonomy to local government councils in the country, removal of immunity for both the President and Governors in the country, while all legal institutions in the country should be strengthened to tackle corruption. The Country Director, CEDSI, Mrs Mina Ogbanga, said the meeting was held to reinforce the position of labour in the zone on some national issues, against the backdrop of the on-going consti-

tutional amendment. Ogbanga who spoke through her Finance and Administrative Director, Mr Kuna Porokie, said the stand of labour on the whole issue was that of good governance. The Treasurer of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Rivers State chapter, Dr. Chris Mbata, said TUC would continue to advocate for true federalism in the country and declared that the position of labour on the issue of minimum wage, remained that there could not be an isolation in the implementation of true federalism. “If you want to remove minimum wage from the exclusive list, then implement true federalism in all sectors,” he said.

Union pickets firm over anti-workers’ activities

RADE unions under the aegis of the Industrial Global Unions Federation (IGUF), have picketed Majestic Manufacturing Sack company over anti-workers’ activities as well as sensitised workers in Ikeja industrial areas on the need to work under decent conditions to commemorate the Seventh World Decent Work Day. The IGUF‘s unions, which consist of affiliates of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC), picketed the company for over three hours and blocked major access roads in some firms in Lagos that are involved in

anti-workers’ activities to warn the respective management to keep off from indecent workers condition. Speaking during the picketing, the Vice President of NLC, Comrade Isa Aremu said employers were reinventing colonial anti-labour practices. He said:”We call on the Federal Government to reverse the situation with a view to promoting sound labour practice”. The labour leaders however insisted that the sack manufacturing company had escaped picketing times without numbers, due to internal informa-

tion received by the outsider, saying they were caught unawares this time.. Also speaking, General-Secretary of Joint Action Front (JAF), Comrade Abiodun Aremu decried the degrading work environment in the country as unfortunate as the Government could not provide the enabling environment for companies to thrive He however urged the Federal government to use the decent day celebration to implement the agreements reached with labours in the country.

ASUU: ERC welcomes NUT’s, NUPENG ’s solidarity strike threat

HE Education Rights Campaign (ERC) has said it welcomes the decision of three

trade unions – the Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT), the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) and the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) – to embark on solidarity strike to compel the Federal Government to honour agreements signed with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU). Its National Coordinator, Mr. Hassan Soweto said this in a statement. He added that the three unions should take this beyond the realm of threats and immediately name a day on which the solidarity strike would begin. He said the unions should begin active mobilisation of their rank and file, students who are frustrated at home and other concerned citizens to come out en-masse for mass protests and demonstrations on this day. He said:”We commend the three unions for taking this decision which we believe is in the best interest of the education sector and the nation at large. We agree that the ASUU strike has gone on for far too long and the plethora of strikes in the education sector are just too many. Slowly the entire public education sector is grinding to a halt. “The public polytechnics are equally closed and it will not be too long before the Colleges of Education Academic Staff Union (COEASU) follow suit. The Colleges of Education lecturers held a seven-day warning strike. Indeed, the Academic Staff of Union

of Polytechnics (ASUP) had to resume the strike they had suspended in July after three months, due to the insensitivity and insincerity of government to their demands and terms of the suspension of the last strike.” He said such a solidarity strike would be in the best interest of the education sector and the country at large. He continued: “The three unions come from key sectors of the nation’s economy. As such their decision to embark on solidarity strike if given full and practical effect could help pile pressure on the recalcitrant anti-poor Federal Government to meet demands of striking education unions so that public universities and polytechnics can be reopened for academic activities to resume. “This would also serve as an example for other unions and the entire labour movement to follow. We want to stress that the solidarity actions which the NUT, NUPENG and NUEE have envisioned should also cover and back the strikes of ASUP, COEASU and all other unions in the education sector that have any ongoing dispute with the government over pay, conditions and education funding. This is the best way to ensure that all the outstanding disputes in the education sector are resolved and all public universities, polytechnics and colleges of educations are opened for full and undisrupted academic activities.” Soweto added that the ERC understands the position of Nigerians who believe that the entire sector will crumble if such a union as the NUT goes on strike.

THE NATION MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2013

EQUITIES NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE

Conoil, Forte Oil set new highs amid bullish push

DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 18-10-13

ONOIL and Forte Oil open today at their highest prices in recent years as increasing investors’ appetites for petroleum-marketing stocks continue to highlight the downstream oil subsector as the most bullish subgroup in recent weeks. Conoil and Forte Oil recorded the highest capital gains last week at the stock market, a rally that saw the subsector’s index surpassing the closest most active subgroup by nearly a ratio of four to one. Forte Oil recorded the highest capital gain of 33.96 per cent to close last week at a high of N64.30 per share. Conoil followed with a gain of 21.49 per cent to close at a high of N34.99 per share. The All Share Index (ASI), the common index that tracks changes in prices of all quoted equities on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), recorded a week-on-week return of 0.95 per cent. This pushed the yearto-date return at the stock market to 32.99 per cent. At the opening price today, investors in Conoil have earned 70.68 per cent in capital gains while investors’ values in Forte Oil have improved by 731.82 per cent so far this year. Against the 52-week timeline of the NSE, Conoil’s market consideration has grown by

•Oil stocks now goldmines By Taofik Salako Capital Market Editor

106.3 per cent while Forte Oil remained unchanged at about 731.8 per cent. The performance of the duo of Conoil and Forte Oil has coloured the subgroup’s ranking as the most resurgent subgroup. The NSE Oil and Gas Index recorded a weekly gain of 10.52 per cent last week as against 0.95 per cent by the general benchmark index. The duo of Conoil and Forte Oil were the best-return stocks in the subgroup. The NSE Consumer Goods Index recorded a weekly return of 2.68 per cent last week. The NSE 30 Index, which tracks the 30 most capitalised stocks, rose by 1.23 per cent. Banking sector index rallied 1.57 per cent while insurance index inched up by 0.43 per cent. The NSE Industrial Goods Index was the only decliner among the tracked subsectors with a weekly depreciation of 0.60 per cent. Over the past 21 days, the pricing trend has followed the same trend indicated last week. Oil and gas stocks, under the strong push of Conoil and Forte Oil, have recorded average capital gain of 18.21 per cent, the highest by any

subsector and more than 16 percentage points above the average return by the market. Month-to-date analysis showed that the ASI has risen by 2.07 per cent this month. The NSE 30 Index has returned 2.39 per cent. The NSE Consumer Goods Index indicates a return of 3.67 per cent. The NSE Banking Index carries a month-todate return of 4.47 per cent while insurance stocks carry average return of 0.96 per cent. Like the trend last week, only NSE Industrial Goods Index has a subsisting negative return of -0.16 per cent. The ASI opens today at 37,342.73 points while aggregate market value of all equities had risen to N11.897 trillion. Turnover during the three-day trading session last week stood at 895.210 million shares worth N11.659 billion in 14,989 deals. Two days were declared as public holidays to celebrate Eid-ul-Kabir, Muslim’s biggest festival. Trading in the shares of the trio of Zenith Bank Plc, Transnational Corporation of Nigeria Plc and Unity Bank Plc accounted for 312.180 million shares worth N3.649 billion in 1,705 deals, representing 34.87 per cent and 31.30 per cent of the aggregate turnover volume and value.

Stockbrokers mull financing means for key TOCKBROKERS will raise money from the capisectors consider traditional tal market don't know how

and new emerging methods available for raising funds for the key sectors of the economy at their forthcoming annual national conference. At a briefing at the weekend, Chairman, Organising Committee of Stockbrokers Annual Conference, Mr Abayomi Sanya, said the 17th Annual Conference of the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS), scheduled for October 30, would attract key decision markers and experts from the private and public

sectors According to him, the conference will avail opportunities to stockbrokers to learn how to package new instruments that can help fund infrastructure such as power, roads and housing among others. He added that the stockbrokers would use the occasion to also outline to quoted companies arious instruments that can be used in raising funds to meet their operational challenges noting that it has been observed that most companies that want to

to go about it and even the kind of instruments that would suit the purpose for which such fund is needed. "A lot of development has occurred in terms of structure, product development and these are the things that we are expected to know. The Federal Government is making some effort to ensure that power works and we as stockbrokers are cueing into such laudable effort," Sanya said. He pointed out that capital market is the bedrock of any economy and to that extent; brokers need to portray what the capital market can do. According to him, the power revolution is capital intensive and the Nigerian capital market is expected to play critical role in infrastructure development.

DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 27-09-13

THE NATION MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2013

MONEY LINK

Wema Bank to deploy N40b capital in loan expansion W

EMA Bank Plc has said the N40 billion capital raised from shareholders will be channelled into growing its loan volume by over 60 per cent in the next few years. Its Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Tunde Mabawonku, said in an interview at the weekend that the lender is committed to growing its loan volume from N89 billion to between N150 billion and N160 billion over the next few years. He said managemnt is aware that the expectations of shareholders are extremely high, adding that management is committed to ensuring that such expectations are met. He disclosed that over 90 per cent of the new fund will be used as working capital. “We are not spending any money in terms of infrastructure or strengthening of Information Technology (IT) base because they are already in place. As we have got this money now, it will be strictly used for business. And in terms of business plan, our primary market simply remains the Southwest, Southsouth and the Federal Capital Teritory,” he said. He said last year was a challenging one for the lender as it was hampered by lack of capital and adverse effects of loan provisioning. “Those two factors affected our operations in 2012, we had very low capital and were unable to do as much business as we had wanted to,” he said. He explained that while that lasted, lending was slowed, but deposit mobilisation continued, adding that with the restrictions lifted, the lender is now on a path of growth. Mabawonku said while waiting for the new capital, the bank continued its aggressive deposit drive especially at the retail segment of

Stories by Collins Nweze

the market. “Our idea is to go out and open as many accounts as possible and increase our deposit base,” he said. According to him, the bank has been able to clean up its loan book with its non-performing loans (NPLs) currently standing at three per cent from NPLs as high as 89 per cent three years ago. “We started pushing the NPLs down gradually, most importantly by putting in place proper structures of risk management. We are also interested in recoveries, but more so in good corporate governance. So, in 2010, we moved from 89 per cent to 56 per cent, to 18 per cent, 14 per cent and three per cent. And we believe we will not go above the three per cent mark in the nearest future,” he assured. He said the bank has strengthened its retail structure and workforce within the segment, adding that a customer could now walk into any branch of the bank and get loan approval within 24 hours.

However, within such period, all the necessary credit checks on the account including the customer’s past loan history and credit rating will be analysed. The bank’s cost of funds, Mabawonku said is also impressive. “Our cost of funds in 2012 was 5.6 per cent and at the third quarter, it was 5.8 per cent. We believe that one of the ways to make profit is to reduce the cost of funds. We did not go into taking expensive funds, what we are doing is step by step retail growth,” he said. He reiterated the bank’s commitment to ensuring that its public sector deposit does not exceed 10 per cent of its deposit liability. “After the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) policy on public sector funds became effective, we began re-pricing our public sector funds. It hurts us that we lost some funds, but it is better to remain profitable than to be big and unprofitable. We intend to keep our public sector deposits below 10 per cent of our total liability,” he said.

The CFO said the bank’s first priority remains providing superior returns to its shareholders, adding that in the last few years, the bank has been quiet, carrying out some internal restructuring on its processes, people and technology. He said the bank is not applying for national banking licence to operate in all parts of the country but in strategic areas, such as Kano, Kogi, Aba, Port Harcourt where its high-volume customers operate.

ABCON seeks compliance with money laundering law

HE Association of Bureaux De Change Operators of Nigeria (ABCON) has said bureau de change (BDC) operators should comply with the antimoney laundering policy being implemented by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). Recently, the CBN announced some measures to check money laundering tendencies observed in the foreign exchange market. These include the ban on importation of foreign currencies, and suspension

Tenor

Amount N

Rate %

M/Date

3-Year 5-Year 5-Year

35m 35m 35m

11.039 12.23 13.19

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

of 20 BDCs for not rendering returns and non-compliance with antimoney laundering regulations. ABCON Acting President, Aminu Gwadabe, said the measures of the CBN were in line with the group’s position on compliance with regulatory requirements. “When it comes to the issue of noncompliance with regulatory requirements, especially rendering returns as well as compliance with approved limits for foreign exchange transactions, the association

has a zero-tolerance position. “We have made it known to our members that we would not hesitate to impose sanctions or report to the CBN, any member found guilty of not complying with these requirements. So we are fully in support of the actions of the CBN,” he said. He said such action is necessary to ensure sanity in the foreign exchange market, and most importantly the stability of the naira, which is critical to our economy.

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

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

Price Loss 2754.67 447.80

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

Amount 30m 46.7m 50m

Rate % 10.96 9.62 12.34

Date 28-04-2012 “ 14-04-2012

GAINERS AS AT 27-09-13

SYMBOL

O/PRICE

FO 58.33 CONOIL 31.75 SKYEBANK 4.40 UBCAP 1.27 ASHAKACEM 22.00 DANGSUGAR 11.30 NESTLE 1,000.00 PZ 38.00 CADBURY 55.00 BERGER 7.70

C/PRICE 64.30 34.99 4.62 1.33 23.00 11.80 1,040.00 39.50 57.00 7.95

EXHANGE RATE 6-03-12 Currency

INTERBANK RATES 7.9-10% 10-11%

CHANGE 5.97 3.24 0.22 0.06 1.00 0.50 40.00 1.50 2.00 0.25

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

Year Start Offer

Current Before

C u r r e n t CUV Start After %

147.6000 239.4810 212.4997

149.7100 244.0123 207.9023

150.7100 245.6422 209.2910

-2.11 -2.57 -1.51

149.7450

154.0000

154.3000

-3.04

152.0000

153.0000

155.5000

-2.30

153.0000

154.0000

156.0000

-1.96

DISCOUNT WINDOW Feb. ’11

July ’11

July ’12

MPR

6.50%

12%

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

8.50% 4.50% 25.00% 1.00% 12.10%

8.50% 4.50% 25.00% 2.00% 12.10%

9.50% 5.50% 30.00% 2.00% 11.8%

LOSERS AS AT 27-09-13

SYMBOL IHS ETERNA INTENEGINS UNITYBNK IKEJAHOTEL CONTINSURE ABCTRANS WAPIC DANGCEM OKOMUOIL

O/PRICE 2.66 2.78 0.90 0.57 0.72 1.13 0.79 0.90 190.00 44.95

C/PRICE 2.53 2.65 0.86 0.55 0.70 1.10 0.77 0.88 186.20 44.13

CHANGE -0.13 -0.13 -0.04 -0.02 -0.02 -0.03 -0.02 -0.02 -3.80 -0.82

IDELITY Bank Plc funded the Alausa Independent Power Project (IPP) launched in Lagos at the weekend, Lagos State Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Taofiq Tijani has said. Tijani, who spoke at the inauguration of the project, said the bank did not only provided the funds, but also followed it through to completion. He said power development and delivery is no longer a rocket science, adding that the state government had earlier commissioned power plants at Akute, Marina, which are running. The Group Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer, Fidelity Bank, Mr Reginald Ihejiahi, commended the state government, saying it was the third power project to be financed by the bank in the state. “This project is going to supply power to 62 buildings and each of them is made up over 1,000 offices. We are very happy to do it with Oando,” he said. The Chief Executive Officer, Oando Gas and Power, Mr Bolaji Osunsanya, said the project would stimulate increased productivity in the state through the provision of a competitively priced electricity. According to him, the natural gas project would significantly reduce pollution that used to emanate from diesel plants. He said the 10.4 mega watts power plant will supply light to the Alausa Secretariat and its environs. Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Fashola said the state government has demonstrated that Public-Private Partnership (PPP) is working.

DATA BANK

MANAGED FUNDS

OBB Rate Call Rate

•Wema Bank CEO Segun Oloketuyi

FGN BONDS

NIDF NESF

Fidelity Bank funds Alausa IPP

NIBOR Tenor 7 Days 30 Days 60 Days 150 Days

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

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

Amount Sold ($) 150m 138m 113m

Exchange Rate (N) 155.2 155.8 155.7

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

CAPITAL MARKET INDEX

NSE CAP Index

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

% Change -1.44% -1.44%

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

MEMORANDUM QUOTATIONS Name

Offer Price

Bid Price

159.15

158.38

ARM AGGRESSIVE GROWTH

9.17

9.08

BGL NUBIAN FUND

1.18

1.16

BGL SAPPHIRE FUND

1.16

CANARY GROWTH FUND

0.75

0.74

CONTINENTAL UNIT TRUST

1.39

1.33

CORAL INCOME FUND

1,571.43

FBN FIXED INCOME FUND

AFRINVEST W. A. EQUITY FUND

1,000.00

FBN HERITAGE FUND

115.83

115.13

FBN MONEY MARKET FUND

100.00

FIDELITY NIGFUND

1.67

1.62

INTERCONTINENTAL INTEGRITY FUND

1.05

1.03

KAKAWA GUARANTEED INCOME FUND

1.00

LEGACY FUND

0.78

0.76

1,833.94

1,828.14

NIGERIA INTERNATIONAL DEBT FUND (NIDF) • • • • •

ARM AGGRESSIVE KAKAWA GUARANTEED STANBIC IBTC GUARANTE AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUNDARM AGGRESSIVE

Movement

OPEN BUY BACK

Bank P/Court

Previous 04 July, 2012

Current 07, Aug, 2012

8.5000 8.0833

Movement

THE NATION MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2013

ISSUES These are not the best of times for oil companies and the nation. The increasing rate of oil theft is taking its toll on the economy and the companies. Forced shut down of production and declaration of force majeure have been the lot of some oil firms in recent times due to pipeline vandalism by the thieves. The nation, which depends largely on the oil sector, is losing billions of dollars daily. This has led to some firms to divest from onshore to deepwaters. AKINOLA AJIBADE writes on the threats to the economy and the need to halt the illicit trade.

• Oil rig

Economy groans under oil theft C RUDE oil theft, pipeline vandalism, oil shut-ins, divestment from onshore to offshore infrastructure and, sometimes, outright sale of oil production infrastructure. These are some of the now familiar expressions in the oil sector. For sometime now, oil majors such as Chevron, Mobil, Total and Shell have been battling the scourge of oil theft while the nation has been losing huge revenue. Stakeholders, including the government, oil sector and human right groups, are not happy with the development. They have protested the unwholesome practices, as well as tried to proffer solutions to the problems. But with each passing day, the problems are gaining momentum as no solution seemed to

have stemmed the trend. Though the Federal Government constituted the Joint Task Force (JTF) to combate the challenge, the success of the military team still leaves much to be desired as oil thieves keep bleeding the economy dry with impunity. Not too long ago, the Shell Petroleum Development Company

‘

(SPDC) shut down its Trans Niger Pipeline (TNP) because of fresh leaks barely 10 days after it was repaired. The closure, which was the second within two weeks, came with devastating effects on the industry. About 150,000 barrels of crude oil and 500 million cubic feet of gas daily were deferred because of the development.

Shell's spokesman, Precious Okolobo, said the company loses an average of 80,000 barrels daily to oil theft. He said the pipelines have been repeatedly targeted and closed down five times since June 2013, due to multiple leaks from illegal points from where thieves siphon crude oil. He said the leaks were reported at B-Dere, NowanTai, and Bodo

The economic effects include reduction in income from sale of oil, running the economy below the fiscal estimate, putting Nigeria in a competitive advantage with other countries, especially those on the African continent... increased unemployment, creation of powerful cartels and individuals who can undermine the whole polity like the Colombian drug cartels

’

West in Ogoni land, adding that the closure was part of the precautionary measures taken by the company to safeguard its assets. Prior to this, Shell had on July 16, this year shut the 24-inch trunk line. The line, which is part of a broader pipeline, route that carries 150,000 barrels of oil daily through the Niger Delta to the Bonny Terminal, was another major blow to the company's operations. Also, the SPDC suspended loadings at Bonny and Forcados in October last year because of theft, flooding and damage to the supply pipelines. Though Shell lifted the suspension a few days after, it could not compensate for the losses suffered by the company and the economy in particular. •Continued on page 33

THE NATION MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2013

ISSUES

•Petroleum Minister, Mrs Alison-Madueke •Continued from page 32

Industry observers have blamed crude oil theft and associated crimes on militants and the communities where major companies are exploring oil. They said the initial problems Shell and other companies faced were resentment from host communities and its attendant destruction of oil facilities. They said crude oil theft came because the oil majors were not showing enough commitment to tackling ecological problems in the industry.

Fiscal ‘effects’ of crude oil theft Rising oil theft and pipeline vandalism, volatile oil prices and massive discoveries of shale gas are beginning to impact on Nigeria's fiscal revenue, as well as making it difficult to meet some of its domestic obligations. An estimated whopping $10billion have been lost to crude oil theft in the last two years. This has adversely affected the sector’s addition to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The Minister of Petroleum Resources, Diezani AlisonMadueke said the disruption of exploration in the Niger Delta is posing threat to the growth of the oil industry. She said the government is concerned with providing conducive environment for the companies, adding that the industry could only grow when the right environment is put in place. She said crude oil theft has resulted in huge loss of revenue for the companies and he government, adding that efforts have been made to arrest the situation. A report by Ecobank Group warned that Nigeria's debts would make the country to remain vulnerable to any unexpected large drop in oil prices. The report also pointed out that Nigeria's debt would remain susceptible to other macroeconomic shocks, even as it urged the government to properly manage the situation. The Ecobank report read: "Nigeria's debt situation will remain vulnerable to any unexpected large drop in oil prices or other macro-economic shocks to the economy; this could lead to a

•Group Managing Director, Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Andrew Yakubu

•Chief Executive Officer, Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), Mutiu Sunmonu

Economy groans under oil theft renewed debt distress. "This factor will continue to weigh on the country's sovereign credit rating. Amid this and other factors, Nigeria's sovereign foreign currency long-term credit ratings remain below investment grade, albeit with a stable outlook." The report, however, noted that the outlook for Nigeria's ratings compared more favourably to that of South Africa, which has a negative outlook. “Amid growing efforts to reduce external financing risk, the Federal Government's domestic debt has emerged as the bigger share of total debt, reflecting increased efforts by the Federal Government to finance a larger proportion of its deficit from the domestic capital market rather than from international creditors. “The Federal Government's domestic debt has risen from $10.4 billion (11.7 per cent of GDP) in 2004 to $43.4 billion (16.6 per cent of GDP) in 2012. The stock of domestic debt is likely to remain much higher than external debt, although the government's recent effort to exercise fiscal prudence should see domestic borrowing fall, remaining well below the Federal Government's target of 30 per cent of GDP. "Already, growth in domestic debt has slowed to 21.7 per cent, down from 40 per cent in 2010. However, despite the downward trajectory in domestic debt, debt-servicing costs remain high (amounting to $4.4 billion; nearly two per cent of GDP in 2012), reducing the fiscal space for investment in otherwise core areas of priority," it

added. Also, the Chief Executive Officer, Financial Derivatives Limited, Bismark Rewane, said the country's economy has been made more vulnerable to macroeconomic shocks by a fall in revenue as a result of crude oil theft in the Niger Delta estimated at 400,000 barrels a day. He said the loss to theft translates to 20 per cent of the country's output, which amounted to about $14 billion a month. "This implies that 20 per cent of Nigeria's revenue is being lost to crude oil theft. But it does not just stop at that, because the people who are stealing the crude oil have to sell it at a discounted price in the black market, so as long as they do not get full value and it cannot be invested in the national economy, it also amounts to a drop in our Net National Income (NNI)," Rewane said. He added that a third danger is that the proceeds from crude oil theft could end up in the hands of Nigeria's enemies. "It poses a national security risk because the proceeds could be used to buy arms and ammunition by enemies of the state, which could be used to fight and terrorise Nigerians," he warned.

NEITI's position According to the Nigeria Extractive Industry Transparency Initiative (NEITI), oil theft and bunkering constitute a major source of environmental pollution in the Niger Delta region. Its spokesman, Orji said massive public enlightenment and strin-

gent regulations are required to bring national and international attention to the dangers which crude oil theft posed to host communities and the people living along the coastal waters. It said the job of NEITI is more of whistle blowing, adding that it is collaborating with various government agencies on how to tackle oil theft. He said: “We believe that environmental hazards arising from oil exploration activities can be checked if relevant agencies such as National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA), Ministry of Environment, Department of Petroleum Resources, Ministry of Petroleum Resources and its key parastatals can work together with the security agencies and the companies to enforce the law on environmental pollution.” He said rancour among bidders would reduce, when oil licenses are awarded in an open, transparent manner under international best practices. NEITI maintains the position that award of oil licenses should be subject to open, transparent and international competitive bid process. This international competitive bid process (ICB) will guarantee that only companies with requisite competencies, professionalism, business integrity and financial capability win OPLs. This would be good for our country in terms of inflow of foreign investments, global competitiveness and good corporate governance which ultimately results in high revenue flows to the federation,' he added. The Petroleum and Gas Senior

‘This implies that 20 per cent of Nigeria's revenue is being lost to crude oil theft. But it does not just stop at that, because the people who are stealing the crude oil have to sell it at a discounted price in the black market, so as long as they do not get full value and it cannot be invested in the national economy, it also amounts to a drop in our Net National Income (NNI)’

Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) said there are immediate and remote causes of crude oil theft. Its spokesman, Seyi Gambo said the IOCs have lost money to crisis in the Niger Delta, adding that kidnapping of expatriates, pipeline vandalism and crude oil theft are dominant activities in the area. He said Shell and other firms have spent huge amount of money in repairing terminals and pipelines, noting that the development has impacted negatively on their operations. Gambo said the terminals always breakdown no sooner had they been fixed. He said IOCs are divesting their shares because of high fiscal regime, insecurity of oil and gas installations and unsafe maritime environment. From our own pint of view, IOCs have suffered crude oil theft from three angles. The economic effects include reduction in income from sale of oil, running the economy below the fiscal estimate, putting Nigeria in a competitive advantage with other countries, especially those on the continent. He added that there will be increased unemployment, creation of powerful cartels and individuals who can undermine the whole polity such as t h e C o l o m b i a n d r u g cartels. Often times , the cartels stockpile large cache of arms ammunition which they use to terrorise the country. The industry effects are reduction in crude production, lack of new investment by the oil companies operating in Nigeria, increase in oil theft from wells that are not readily taken over by new operators, entrance of new operators especially from China and India, he added. The effects on host communities, he said, are reduction in the royalties or other forms of compensation paid to host communities, and lack of social amenities in those communities. On labour, Gambo said over 30,000 jobs have been lost to oil theft in the past two years. “Job losses as a result of redundancy are one of the problems. Shell, Chevron and Agip are on the part of retrenching their staff. Besides this is the issue of increase in contract/casual form of employment,” he added.

THE NATION MONDAY, OCTOBER 21 , 2013

EQUITIES WATCH

Email: taofad2000@yahoo.co.uk

Housing is essential but holding equities of mortgage companies may not be essential to return-savvy investors. Amidst sustained bullish rallies and enticing average return, mortgage stocks still wallows in recession. Capital Market Editor, TAOFIK SALAKO report

When will mortgages mature?

NVESTING in quoted equities has been highly rewarding this year, as it was in the previous year. Average year-to-date return at the Nigerian stock market opens today at 32.99 per cent. The benchmark value index for the Nigerian stock market, the All Share Index (ASI) of the Nigerian Stock Exchange had risen by 0.95 per cent last week to open today at 37,342.73. Aggregate market value of all quoted equities opens at 11.897 trillion, indicating capital gains of about N2.92 trillion so far this year. While returns differ across sectors, the average market return underlines the widespread appreciation through several stocks and sectors. For several investors, their average returns are better than savings, bonds and other locked-up fixed-income instruments. According to sectoral indices computed by the NSE, average return in the banking sector stands at 19.71per cent while insurance carries 17.63 per cent. Returns in the oil and gas sector averaged 41.27 per cent. Consumer goods stocks have yielded an average of 27.60 per cent capital appreciation while market’s 30 most capitalised stocks show better prospects with 31.52 per cent. Investors in the buildingmaterials dominated industrial goods sector are far ahead of the market with average year-to-date return of 57.15 per cent. But for investors in mortgage sector, the 2008 recession is still as painful as it was then. With the exception of Abbey Building Society that currently carries a positive return of 8.76 per cent, all mortgage stocks-direct and indirect, are stuck at their nominal values. In its seven years, the mortgage subgroup shows little subsisting gains for investors. With the earliest company listed in 2006, all other mortgage companies were listed around 2008, riding on the back of the extremely bullish market situation during the 2004-2007 equity booms. They had raised huge capital, restructured their balance sheets and wooed investors, who were fascinated by the tangible underlying assets and immense opportunities in the housing sector, with high hopes of ‘concrete’ returns in the characters of the solid structures that formed their underlying assets. Mortgage runs on a clear business principle: a home buyer or builder obtains finance from a financial institution to complete the real estate development. Beside the demand for initial equity contri-

bution of varied size, the property in question also serves as collateral and the ownership only fully transferred to the owner upon complete payment of the loan and the conditions thereon. The underlying assets of mortgage companies are thus private and commercial housing developments. Savings and loans companies, otherwise known as primary mortgage institutions (PMI), therefore mobilise savings from customers, mostly prospective home owners, and distribute such deposits to needy customers. They also serve as veritable vehicles for implementation of government’s housing initiatives such as National Housing Fund (NHF). As financial intermediation companies, PMIs are regulated by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). Quoted mortgage companies are also regulated by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the NSE. With housing estate sprouting all over, the combination of the real estate boom and stock market boom had given many investors the beliefs of a one-for-two deal. This much was also evident in the historic emergence of the Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT), which also had its primary assets in real estate, on the stock market. But with post-listing results, mortgage companies appeared to have suffered a fatal failed start; they appear yet to recover from the trauma. This is related by the share prices and underlying fundamentals of the four mortgage companies.

Continuing recession

Besides Abbey Building Society, the three other direct mortgage stocks- Aso Savings and Loans Plc, Resort Savings and Loans and Union Homes Savings and Loans have stagnated at their nominal value of 50 kobo since 2011. Abbey Building Society appeared to be wading through the mud slowly. Its share price had opened 2012 at N1.44 and closed at N1.37. It opens today at N1.49. The nominal share prices largely reflected the poor operational results of the mortgage companies. Audited and interim reports of nearly all the companies have shown considerable declines over the years. Besides, the NSE has tagged many mortgage companies for late rendition of periodic earnings reports. The deteriorating fundamentals of mortgage companies underlined the adverse effects of wrong investment strategies and poor corporate gover-

nance. Stashed with new funds, the mortgage bankers had embarked on spending sprees, diverting funds from their core real estate and housing investments to personal investments and to stock market. Mortgage companies were reported to be carrying several bad loans from the huge funds poured into the stock market bubble between 2007 and 2008 and were trapped in unrealizable assets as recession kicked in mid 2008. A report by one of the mortgage companies described how former directors and other insiders built up nearly N4 billion in outstanding non-performing loans, more than three-quarter of the company’s total balance sheet size.

Rebuilding the foundation

The investment scenario of the mortgage sector is compounded by the poor performance at the secondary market and the need for additional capital to revamp dwindling businesses. Besides operational demand, most mortgages banks need to raise new equity funds to meet new minimum capital requirement under the new Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)’s policy framework for mortgage banks. Under the new CBN’s framework for mortgage banks, mortgage banks will be classified into national and state mortgage banks, with the geographic demarcation as benchmark for minimum capital requirement. National mortgage banks are authorized to operate in all states of the Federation while state mortgage banks are restricted to their regis-

tered state. National mortgage banks are required to have minimum capital base of N5 billion while state mortgage banks are required to have N2.5 billion. In a ray of hope, Aso Savings and Loans two weeks ago indicated it had successfully raised about N3.64 billion from its shareholders. More than 6.06 billion ordinary shares of 50 kobo each were then added to the outstanding shares of Aso Savings, signaling the conclusion of the company’s rights issue. The NSE had also approved combined floatation of initial public offering (IPO) and rights issue for Resort Savings. Under the hybrid offer, Resort Savings will be issuing more than 3.333 billion ordinary shares of 50 kobo each at a price of 51 kobo through the IPO. It will also simultaneously issue 3.6 billion ordinary shares of 50 kobo each at the nominal value to existing shareholders. Altogether, Resort Savings hopes to raise about N3.5 billion. The success of Aso Savings’ rights issue will lift up the mood of the sector, especially given that existing shareholders provided the new equity funds. But mortgage companies will have to tangibly demonstrate that they have clear direction, in terms of investment priority and fund management.

Converting the opportunities

Undoubtedly, the mortgage industry has a robust outlook. With estimated housing deficit of about 17 million and growing demand for private and commercial developments, mortgage bankers have latent untapped opportunity in

Nigeria’s large population and wide gap in shelter. The impending launching of the Mortgage Refinancing Company (MRC) and the plan by the Federal Government to set up specialize development finance institutions to support long-term lending are also expected to enhance the prospects of the mortgage sector. Although the roles of the mortgage companies have not been clearly outlined under the MRC, the quantum of capital and spread of activities will ensure that mortgage companies, being the core professionals, play active roles. Already, the Federal Government has selected 14 states for the pilot phase of the MRC. President Goodluck Jonathan is expected to launch the MRC by the end of November. The World Bank had in September approved $300 million liquidity facility for the MRC. Minister of Finance, Dr Ngozi OkonjoIweala also recently outlined plan by government to set up a development finance institution that will support commercial and specialised banks. She said the African Development Bank (ADB) has already indicated interest to commit $400 million into the specialized development finance institution. This initiative is expected to drive down the cost of borrowing, one of the main drawbacks to mortgage development. More amenable funds will provide solid foundation to rebuild the shaky mortgage stocks, but the challenges for the mortgage bankers are appropriate products and investment strategies that could unlock the opportunities. Before then, they need to convince investors they have found the winning formulas.

THE NATION MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2013

INSURANCE

Insurers pay N81.3m fines, penalties to NAICOM •Commission generates N1.97b

NSURANCE operators in the country paid N81.3 million as fines and penalties during the year ended December 31, 2011to the regulatory authority, the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM)as against N70.3 million paid in 2010. This was revealed in the NAICOM 2011 yearly report obtained by The Nation. Total insurance levies paid by operators, including insurers, brokers and loss adjusters in the year under review amounts to N1.57 billion as against N1.4 billion recorded in the preceding year. With a staff of 143,117, NAICOM generated an income of N1.97 billion as against N1.6 billion the previous year and recorded a surplus of N624 million. Under its operating income, it got Federal Government’s subvention of N582 million, registration and renewal fees of N104 million and attestation fees of N310 million. NAICOM, however, spent N1.3 billion out of which it donated N2.33million during the year. Out of the donations, the commission gave N1 million to Nigeria Youth for Goodluck Jonathan, N1 million to fire disaster prevention & safety, N300,000 to Nungtso Charity Foundation and N30,000 to West African Insurance Institute. Speaking on the industry in the year under review, Commissioner for Insurance, Mr Fola Daniel said the insurance sub-sector underwent substantial structural and regula-

Stories by OmobolaTolu-Kusimo

tory reforms three years ago. Daniel hinted that the medium term reform plan of the Market Development and Restructuring Initiative (MDRI), the a new Strategic Plan Document and the introduction of micro insurance and Takaful insurance models were possible inclusion in the commission’s plans. The two insurance models like the MDRI scheme, are focused on addressing issues of low insurance uptake, financial and social inclusion, lack of insurance awareness, market deepening and insurance penetration in the country. On the nation’s economic outlook, Daniel said overall economic performance last year was likely to increase, but at a slower pace. He said: “In 2012 specifically, the growth rate of real GDP is expected to fall, inflationary. “Pressures are likely to be higher, while value of total trade is forecast to decline. This is attributable to increased insecurity and general financial industry reforms still ongoing. The overall growth for the year is expected to be affected by the economic loss from the nation-wide strike early in the year; the partial removal of fuel subsidy will feed into the overall price level to contribute to the inflationary pressures in the economy. “However, the mounting interest in Takaful and micro-insurance models schemes coupled with ap-

propriate country-wide diagnostic research study will lead to the implementation of a social benefits programme through insurance with resultant effects of higher insurance awareness, market deepening and increase in insurance penetration. The outcome will therefore be increased investments and improved standard of living with a growing economy.” Furthermore, the commissioner said NAICOM has taken steps aimed at ensuring stricter compliance with existing laws and created additional operational guidelines to strengthen supervision in the industry. These he stressed include new regulations on premium receivables, solvency margins, and guidelines for the oil and gas insurance. “The Commission is moving to (bridge) any existing gaps in the regulation of insurer’s solvency status, in addition to remission of premiums by brokers. More so, the Commission has set out to introduce the new accounting administration for the industry. “The International Financial Reporting Standard (IFRS) is to replace the old practice of financial reporting in the insurance industry and NAICOM is championing its course through various stakeholders’ engagements, awareness and education,” he added. Accoring to him, NAICOM is also spearheading the anti-money laundering campaigns within the

NCRIB president bows out

HE Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers (NCRIB) is set to install a new president as its President, Olaide Osijo, bows out. Executive Secretary of NCRIB, FataiAdegbenro, who disclosed this, said the investiture of the institute’s Deputy President, Ayodapo Shoderu as the 17th president in Lagos next week will climax its annual conference. He said the place of insurance brokers in Financial Sector Strategy (FSS 2020) will be the central

focus at its National Insurance Conference with theme entitled: “Insurance Brokers and FSS 2020: Imperatives of insurance growth strategy” and will be delivered by the Head of FSS 2020 project, O.A. Jokosenumi. He said the conference is meant to draw attention of insurance professionals and other players in the business sector to their place and contributions to national economic vision and development under the FSS 2020.

• Osijo

• Daniel

•Director-General, NIA , Mr. Sunday Thomas

industry in collaboration with other related agencies to prevent fraudulent practices and detect them if any. Insurers’ are advised to undertake due diligence ontheir clients, he said. Daniel said the commission was at the fore-front of advocacy for the Local Content Act, adding that the law held significant potential for the growth of the insurance industry. He noted that the law places responsibility on foreign oil companies to retain a substantial portion of their operations in the local economy adding that aside from addressing capital flight, it provides indigenous insurers with an appreciable level of exposure to complex oil and gas risk underwriting deals that could rub off

positively on human capital development and underwriting expertise in the industry. “Under the regulation, no insurance risk in the Nigerian oil & gas industry should be placed overseas without the written approval of the Commission which will ensure that Nigerian local capacity has been fully exhausted. The law aims to retain up to 70.0 per cent of oil and gas risks in the local insurance markets. “Following the release of Oil and Gas Guidelines, the Directorate inspected 31 insurance companies on April 6 to 19, 2011 to ascertain compliance with the statedguidelines. The reports of the inspection were reviewed and proper sanctions were meted to defaulting companies,” he said.

‘Growth potential in Africa’

.M Best Rating Company has indicated that Africa’s insurance and reinsurance markets offer potential for growth. According to a report released by the company, despite the challenges in Africa, insurance penetration is growing, but from a very low base and in certain countries given the economic development in the region. AM Best posited that each country has different drivers for heightened insurance demand which ranges from economies dominated by the oil and gas and mining industries, to large populations. The report further stated that insurance market growth in recent years has also been characterised

Five vexatious car insurance questions

HY must I list all household members on my policy? Many people wonder why insurance policies require that all licensed drivers in the house be included on their insurance policy, even if they will not be driving regularly. This question often arises when the driver in question is a teenager whose inclusion on the policy increases the rates. "If someone gets into an accident, then the insurance is going to have to pay, so the driver's risk factors need to be calculated into the overall cost of the policy," says Jeanne M. Salvatore, spokesperson for Insurance Information Institute. Why does a car have to be insured if it's never driven? A car doesn't need to be insured under certain circumstances. "Most states have mandatory insurance laws only for registered vehicles. If a driver is going to store a car for a very long period and not drive it, most states will allow him/her to remove the

license tags [so that the vehicle legally can't be driven] and, as such, the owner will not be required to carry insurance," says Teresa Scharn, auto insurance product director for Nationwide Insurance. The problem is this: It's possible for a car to be damaged even while sitting in your garage or driveway through vandalism, fire or storms, so be cautious about removing coverage. Why do married people pay less for car insurance? According to Kevin Conlee, director in auto line management at Allstate, "If you are married then the data shows that you have a lower propensity for future losses than single drivers with the exact same factors." Sorry, single folks - the insurance statistics aren't in your favor. Why do different auto insurance companies charge wildly different amounts for the same coverage? Car insurance companies use different "underwriting models,"

which result in different calculations of risk. For example, a person with a DUI conviction might be viewed as less "risky" by one insurer over another. That's why it's important to shop around. The insurer that gives your sister a great price might not be the one that gives you the good deal. Salvatore says that insurance companies also use price differences to compete in the marketplace. "One company might seek out only the best drivers and price their policies to encourage top drivers while another might focus on first-time drivers. Companies price their policies to help them compete in the market that they are looking to attract as customers," says Salvatore. Why do I have to insure all my cars when I can only drive one at a time? State laws require insurance (or some other proof of financial responsibility) on all cars that are registered. But you might be able to drop

coverage under special circumstances. "If you have a seasonal car or antique car that you never drive, then you can technically suspend coverage for the car," Conlee says. "But if you are going to drive it, you need to have coverage for at least minimum liability limits." He also notes that cars can be damaged even if they are not being driven. If you suspend coverage, you will not be able to make a claim due to a tree falling, theft, fire or other calamity. Why doesn't my car insurance cover me when I drive someone else's car? Policies are priced based on the specific vehicle and the members of the household who have access to the car. This is how insurers calculate their likelihood for claims payments, and that's why insurance follows the vehicle, not the driver. While other people might occasionally borrow the car, the main risk resides with the family members who are regular drivers. • Culled from Insur.com

by an increase in the number of direct partnerships between businesses in Africa with others internationally. “There has been an increasing interest in international insurer financial strength ratings, with the need for insurers and reinsurers to demonstrate solid underwriting and overall sound financials as a key aspect of the sector’s development. “The benchmarking a company’s financial strength against competitors in other international domiciles is increasingly an aspect of this continent’s insurance development, in the same way as it has become a feature of other global insurance markets,” it said.

Firm to hold forum

LMOND Productions Limited, producers of Almond Finance and Wealth Report on Television and Wetin Insurance Dey Do Sef on Naija Fm, is set to organise the first Insurance Consumers Forum (ICF), which holds on Friday at the MUSON Centre, Onikan, Lagos. In a statement the programme producer, Faith Ughwode, said the forum with the theme: In Pursuit of better service delivery, is being supported by the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria (CIIN) and Nigerian Insurers Association (NIA). Faith said the event, which will be chaired by the former Managing Director Nicon Insurance and Nigeria Re, Ogala Osoka, will harness information for the promotion of customers satisfaction. She noted that the forum will focus on the following: Tiny prints of insurance policies (A Myth), When comprehensive motor policy is not comprehensive enough, exclusions and exemptions resolving claims issues, stressing that the forum, no doubt, will bridge the gap between insurers and the insured.

THE NATION MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2013

NEWS

FEATURE

Hiring the right employee depends so much on how much the employer is able to discover the present and past of such prospective staff. Chief Executive Officer, Primex Background Check Limited, Frank Oyorhigho, says his firm, a due diligence organisation, is focusing on helping employers identify the right persons for the jobs by finding out about their pasts, write COLLINS NWEZE and CHRISTOPHER EBOH

'Professionals should handle employee’s background checks'

FFECTIVE management of an organisation’s pool of talents including having detailed information about such employees remains critical tool in organisational successes. Still, this remains a daunting task for most employers. For Chief Executive Officer, Primex Background Check Limited, Frank Oyorhigho having the data of prospective employer verified by experts should be left to professionals. He said his firm helps employers simplify this complex task to enhance business success. It also assists employees create the right thinking that makes the delivery of their functions possible. According to him, Primex Background Check is involved in investigation of employees' certificates so as to bring integrity to the nation’s business environment, which in its own, come with benefits for both the employer and employees.

Human Resources He said most human resources departments of companies are known to be involved in background checks. "Naturally, when a company employs people, it verifies their certificates by writing letters to previous employers to authenticate claims on the resume. The process used to be given less attention in most companies, until it was discovered that with the saturation of the employment market, applicants can do anything, including falsification of results, to show that they are more qualified than they are," he said. Oyorhigho said such malpractices make it difficult for employers to recruit the best hands, putting many qualified hands out of jobs. It also makes business owners to lose money in terms of training and retraining, which usually follow after discovering that an employee does not have the needed skills claimed on the resume. The extra training expenditure adds to the huge costs of running the business. Such additional costs, he said, bloat the budget, adding that people are employed based on prestige and performance the employer expects the employee to bring to the table.

Employees that lie He explained that companies which discover that employees' claims are false are either retrain or dismiss such employee. Such, action, he said, is like starting all over again, which remains unprofitable for business, because of the time and money usually lost. The former staff of Skye Bank said the firm also helps foreign investors verify key information claimed by their local business partners. "So what we are actually doing apart from verifying certificates is do business with foreigners who want to do business with Nigerians, especially, with the kind of image we have. People want to get into business partnership but they also want to find out if their partners actually have the company or do the kind of business they claimed," he said. He added that from the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), the firm find outs who are the directors and shareholders of such company to ensure that the company's address used in the partnership business is correct

and factual or if the company is registered. According to him, the firm could also find out about the authorised share capital of the company, as such would give the business owners peace of mind by ensuring that businesses are done only with the right persons. There are also insurance benefits attached to such services. "For instance, if you have a staff that will be handling cash and then, he absconds with the cash, if you go to insurance to make claims, even though you have insured the person, one of the ways they can even deflate your claims is by asking if you did due diligence on the staff before employing him," he explained. Ensuring that such preemptive actions are done helps in the process of getting the insurance claims, he said. According to him, because of kidnapping, people need to do background checks on their domestic staff. "You need to find out if the person you want to employ actually needs the job, and that he is not a scam. You know, it was when I worked in the bank that I realised that sometimes, there are syndicates who work themselves to the banks. They are employed and then they make away with money from the bank," he said. Therefore, there is need to verify people that a company is employing. He said: "Drivers can move away with your vehicle, domestic staff can move away with your money, they can even kidnap your children by collaborating with outside kidnappers. It is all about ensuring that you are employing the right person, you are doing business with the right person. Making sure they are diligent and putting everything in proper perspectives. So, even if anything goes wrong, you will know that at your own end, you have done all that you needed to do."

Implications of inaction Oyorhigho said the lack of background checks has made it easy for some banks to employ people of questionable characters, who come in with the intention of defrauding the banks. That he said, explains the rising cases of internal frauds in many of the banks. "The fact that some people with questionable characters are engaged by banks to work as staff, that is why we are have also discovered that internal fraud has been on the rise," he said. He said finding out a prospective employee's past will expose if such a person does not have a record that could affect the job's operation. He said somebody who could forge National Youth Service Corp (NYSC) certificate or call up letter could forge any document or alter records if he or she is employed by a company. He said the interviewees should be told that the information they are supplying will be subjected verification

to do background check. “Also, if you are the young man who wants to get married, and your fiancé is coming to visit you with one small boy or girl, and you said 'who is this?' and she said that it is the last born in their family, and you went ahead to discover that it was the child she had while she was in secondary school, but didn't tell you. That will reduce the level of trust you are going to have for her or for him when you later get married. It may even make the marriage not to work. So, you can check anything or anybody before you go ahead with marriage or business. “But for us, at this moment, we focus on employment check, certificate verification, NYSC certificate verification, professional certificate verification, Guarantor check, reference check among others.”

Guarantor checks

• Oyorhigho

via the open check or the discrete check. According to him, the discrete check is when an employer wants to read in between the lines the things that does not exist. “For instance, there are some things that a prospective employee may not tell you because, maybe you did not ask. “If you want to employ an accountant and then you ask him how much he was earning formerly and he said N 2.5 million per annum, but if you say, I will give you N3 million, because you want to be a good employer and he accepted. “However, if you go back to his former employer discover that he was earning N 1.5 million. That is dishonesty! What this simply means is that if he has an opportunity to make away with your money, he certainly will do.” He recalled the problem with the legislators sometime ago over issues like age falsification. He said these were small issues which could easily be detected if proper checks were done. “You need to be sure that they are okay, so, somebody who can lie about his previous salary can also twist documents. Some people can be good at their jobs but in terms of integrity, cash management, financial integrity, they may be lacking. "I think the one that is usually common is that a company wants to hire a prospective employee and he is being asked how much he earned previously, in majority of the cases, one will always beef up his earnings especially, if you are coming from a background where you earned small. We know how much the pay is in every sector, and then, the person is thinking you can give him an edge in negotiation if he tells you the actual amount. Also, with that actual amount, the employers may not even engage him again," he said. He said many think that such lies will help them, or they will want to

say it is part of negotiation but let's turn the table around. "If you are the employer and you now asked the prospective employee how much he is earning and he said I am earning this amount, and you get to know later that what he said was not what he was actually earning, how will you feel? What will be your reaction? So when you think of it from that perspective, you will realise that what we are trying to do is to bring 'absolute integrity in business environment' so that when this person says it is 'A', it is 'A'," he said. He added that there was nothing wrong with a prospective employee saying no, this was what I was earning before, and this is my worth presently. “Now, if something happens tomorrow, and they say this guy has embezzled money, if for instance, the guy who is the owner of the business, does the background check and found out that what he said was exactly what it was, and if tomorrow, the guy was accused, even if it was true that he did it, the owner of the business would say no! Because the guy told the company the truth about his previous earning, though, it was too small.”he said. On the other wau round, he said if the owners of the business discovered that you lied about your previous salary, and something happens, that may also serve as a bench mark to say it is possible you committed the offence because while he was coming into the company, he told a lie. On the firm's products and services, he said, the products are endless. "For instance, if your daughter wants to get married, and she brings a boy to the house who you are not too comfortable with, even, if he says he work with XYZ company or in a business finance, or into buying and selling, and you say okay, what do you sell? Even if he says 'I sell spare parts, and you are not comfortable, you can decide

‘In developed climes, there is what we call Negligent Hiring (NR) and Negligent Retention (NR). So, if you employ somebody and you did not do background check, if the person commits a crime which the person has committed before somewhere, you can be sued for hiring such a person because that amounted to negligent hiring. But we don't have that kind of regulation here in Nigeria. So anybody can employ. Employers unfortunately don't think that background check is an investment, rather, they see it as a liability,’

He said guarantor check is a major challenge in Nigeria because most employees do not give their forms to the right persons. According to him, if an employer wants to employ somebody, probably a driver, that will be driving a 33000 litre fuel capacity trailer, part of the security will be to sign and check people that will stand as guarantors. If a proper check is not carried out on the guarantors and the driver absconds with the fuel and you now go and arrest the guarantor only to discover that it was somebody who scarcely support himself financially that is the guaranmtor. He said: “If that happens, the goods are gone because he cannot idemnify you. What we do is that the guarantor himself will be verified in terms of worth, reputation in the society and whether he is aware that he is standing in for someone as a guarantor because there are people who just fill in somebody's name without the person being notified, especially, as reference. You put a call through and the person being used as a guarantor says 'I don't know that he put my name there although, he is my aunt's daughter or son. So does the guarantor know that he is being used as a guarantor? Can the guarantor stand for the person? But once he says 'Yes! I am aware, I signed this form!' That is a form of security and it also serves as check, because, such a person will be very careful in the way he handles things or the way he does his job.” He said the job of background checks should be left for professionals who understand the what it takes and go the extra mile to find out about prospective employee.

Being proactive He said the average Nigerian business owner is not proactive but reactive, adding that such employers believe that if an employee commits fraud, and once he is sacked, he has been punished, but forgetting that if you sack one person, the recruitment process cost you more in terms of fund, time and man power. “So we just look at it at the surface level and say, okay, if he doesn't do well, I will sack him. But number two, there is no government regulation that says you must do background check before you employ. “In developed climes, there is what we call Negligent Hiring (NR) and Negligent Retention (NR). So, if you employ somebody and you did not do background check, if the person commits a crime, which the person has committed before somewhere, you can be sued for hiring such a person because that amounted to negligent hiring. But we don't have that kind of regulation here in Nigeria. So anybody can employ. Employers unfortunately don't think that background check is an investment, rather, they see it as a liability,” he said.

THE NATION MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2013

International Business

Google shares hit $1,000

• A Chief Business Correspondent Linda Yueh explains how China is seeking to rebalance its economy.

China’s economic growth picks up in Q3

HINA’S economic growth picked up pace in the July-toSeptember period, the first rise in three quarters. The world’s second-biggest economy grew by 7.8 per cent from a year earlier, up from 7.5 per cent expansion in the previous quarter. The official figures also showed growth in industrial output, retail sales and fixed asset investment. After years of blistering growth, China has seen its pace of expansion slow recently and there have been fears that growth may slow further. China has set a growth target of 7.5 per cent for the year. Analysts said the latest numbers indicated that it was likely that Beijing would meet this. “This is an indication that China’s economic growth is holding up in a range which is within the comfort zone of both the Chinese policymakers as well as global watchers,” said Song Seng Wun, a senior economist with CIMB Research . Over the past few decades China has relied heavily on its exports and manufacturing sectors as well as government-led infrastructure spending to help boost growth. The Chinese government is aiming for a slower and better balanced economy that can grow more sustainably.”

a key driver of growth, may be overheating. “There is certainly a build up of momentum among the small manufacturers, which is an indication that China’s policies targeted at them are working,” said Tony Nash, vicepresident at IHS.

RBS CEO urges staff to focus on recovery

OYAL Bank of Scotland’s new chief executive has told staff not to be distracted by speculation that the company may be broken up. In a memo Ross McEwan urged staff to focus on rebuilding the bank and doing the best possible job for customers. The government, which owns 81 per cent of RBS, is reviewing whether the bank should be split into “good” and “bad” arms. In his memo, Mr McEwan said that “at some point soon we’ll reach the end of the review”. Investment bank Rothschild is advising the government on whether RBS’s bad loans should be hived off into a separate entity. Speculation has grown that the review is coming to an end. But Mr McEwan said a bad bank

Toyota to recall 885,000 vehicles

OYOTA is recalling 885,000 vehicles to fix a problem that could cause a water leak from the air conditioning unit. It said water could leak into the airbag control module, causing a short circuit and triggering a warning light. In some cases airbags “could become disabled or could inadvertently deploy” and in limited cases the power steering function could be disabled, it added. The models affected by the recall are the Camry, Camry Hybrid, Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, and Venza made in 2012-13. Some 847,000 cars will be recalled

However, a slowdown in key markets such as the US and Europe has hurt demand for its exports. As a result, it has been trying to spur domestic demand to offset the decline in foreign sales and also to rebalance its growth. Earlier this year, it unveiled fresh measures to help boost the economy. From August 1, China has suspend value-added tax (VAT) and turnover tax for small businesses with monthly sales of less than 20,000 yuan ($3,257; £2,125). The cabinet said the move would benefit more than six million small companies and boost employment and income for millions of people. Policymakers said they would also implement measures to simplify customs clearance procedures, cut operational fees and facilitate the exports of small and medium-sized private enterprises. The cabinet also announced plans to completely open China’s railway construction market to private investors to develop the sector further. It said it would set up a railway development fund, with the initial money coming from the government. Analysts said the moves were starting to have an impact on the growth numbers. A model of a luxury property development in Beijing There are concerns that China’s property market,

in North America, while the rest will be in Europe, Asia and the Middle East. A spokeswoman for Toyota told the BBC that it had received reports of two minor injuries due to the issue, but there had been no reports of any vehicles crashing. This is the third major recall that Toyota has issued in recent weeks. Last month, the company called back more than 780,000 vehicles in the US to address a suspension defect in its RAV4 and Lexus HS 250h models, after fears that an initial recall last year did not fix the problem.

OOGLE shares have topped $1,000 (£617) for the first time after the company reported better-than-expected earnings. The firm posted a 36 per cent jump in net profits to $2.97billion for the July-to-September period. Shares in the giant online search and ads company rose more than 13 per cent to $1,006, and are up 41 per cent since the start of the year. Google’s revenues also beat forecasts with a 12 per cent rise year-onyear. “We are closing in on our goal of a beautiful, simple, and intuitive experience regardless of your device,” Google’s chief Larry Page said in a conference call with analysts. The strong earnings report also helped other online companies, with Facebook shares adding 4.4 per cent to a new high of more than $55. Amazon rose 3.4 per cent. At $1,000 a share, Google’s market value is about $334billion, which is still well below Apple’s $461billion. Google was floated in August 2004 at $85 a share, giving the company a market value at the time of $23billion. The company reported its quarterly earnings on Thursday after US markets had closed. Google said that paid-for clicks increased by a quarter during the

Toyota’s latest announcement puts the number of recalls over the past two years at nearly 20 million. That is far more than the number it called back in 2009 and 2010 - widely seen as the worst years for its reputation. Toyota’s sales had suffered in the aftermath of those recalls, which were prompted by problems with accelerator pedals becoming trapped under floor mats. The current recalls haven’t been linked to any major incidents or crashes. But 20 million is a huge number and the recalls have been spread across various models and unrelated issues.

would only affect a small proportion of RBS’s overall business. Analysts have said that the vast bulk of RBS’s assets are likely to be unaffected by the review. McEwan said: “The truth is, the review and its outcomes are important, but not in the way many people think. “The future of this company will not be about whether we operate in particular areas or where our problem assets sit. The future of this company is about how good a job we do for our customers, including those who are having difficulty repaying their loans. “But the debate you read about in the papers - and that has taken up too much time of the management team - has been about what is now a small proportion of our activity. “We are taking responsibility for resolving these debates. Let’s address the legitimate concerns shareholders and other stakeholders have. And then let’s get on with building a great bank for customers,” he said. Mr McEwan became chief executive at the start of this month, replacing Stephen Hester, who spent four years trying to repair the bank’s balance sheet. Supporters of a break-up of RBS include former Bank of England governor Sir Mervyn King and ex-UK Chancellor Nigel Lawson. RBS was bailed out for £45billion in 2008 at the height of the financial crisis.

Rate rise unlikely next year, says Bank of England

HE Bank of England’s chief economist, Spencer Dale, says economic conditions are unlikely to improve enough to merit a rise in interest rates next year. In a question and answer session on the social network Twitter, he said the UK would need to see sustained growth before rates rose from the 0.5 per cent level. Earlier this week he said that rates could rise in 2014 if conditions were strong enough. Mr Dale is one of the nine people at the Bank that set monetary policy. As might be expected from a cen-

tral banker, Mr Dale gave little in the way of surprises in his answers on current monetary policy. In its latest minutes, the Bank’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) said it would make no change to the £375billionn of monetary stimulus it is providing through its quantitative easing (QE) programme. The programme, brought in to give an extra stimulus because interest rates could barely be cut below the current record low of 0.5 per cent, has been criticised by some for helping the financial markets and the banks, by making money cheap, rather than the

economy as a whole. Asked “is Quantitative Easing a necessary evil? What will be the implications on the UK’s macroeconomic objectives?”Mr Dale replied:” QE not evil. Has helped to support economy and protect jobs.” Another of the big economic debates in the country is whether or not house prices are rising dangerously high. When asked if he had any concerns that there was a housing bubble, fuelled by the Help to Buy scheme which helps borrowers struggling to raise a deposit, Mr Dale answered: “A healthy hous-

ing market is good for economy. But watching carefully for overheating.” Twitter’s unfiltered nature inevitably draws offbeat comments. Of less importance to UK economy watchers was “do you ever polish the gold 1Kg brick in the museum?” “No need,” was the reply, “It stays shiny without out being polished.” But questions to Mr Dale answered in the hour-long session were markedly more serious and respectful than the session held by British Gas on Thursday, which was widely hailed as a lesson in how not to engage through social media.

July-to-September period, from a year earlier, the highest rate of growth in the past year. This offset an eight per cent fall in average cost-per-click, the price advertisers pay Google when consumers click on their ads. “We view solid paid clicks growth to be a good indicator of demand, driven by the continued shift to mobile,” JP Morgan analysts said in a note. Several brokers have raised their share price target for Google on the back of the company’s new initiatives to attract advertisers. In February, the company launched a service to help advertisers market through a mix of smartphones, tablets and desktop computers. And analysts believe there is still significant potential to generate revenues from its videostreaming website YouTube. YouTube-branded video-ads surged more than 75 per cent in the quarter from a year earlier, with 40 per cent of traffic now coming from mobile devices. “We estimate that Google’s key YouTube asset generated approximately $4billion in revenue in 2012, positioning Google extremely well for the strong growth in video advertising,” RBC Capital Markets analysts wrote in a note.

Canada, EU agree on free-trade deal

CANADA and the European Union have struck a free trade agreement aimed at boosting growth and employment. The deal will lower tariffs, streamline regulation, and cut red tape. Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper and European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso agreed the deal at a meeting in Brussels on Friday. Mr Barroso said they had reached a “breakthrough in negotiations” to achieve “a great agreement for both the European Union and Canada”. The deal still requires approval by parliaments and EU member states. Once approved, the agreement aims to make it easier for companies in Canada and the 28member EU bloc to invest in and sell to each other. The EU is Canada’s second-largest trading partner behind the US. Mr Harper said the agreement was “the biggest (trade) deal our country has ever made”. It will give Canada access to a market of some 500 million people in the EU, making it bigger even than the country’s North American Free Trade Agreement signed with the US and Mexico.

UK energy firm prices to rise by 4.5%

ONE of the United Kingdom’s smallest energy suppliers - Cooperative Energy - has joined two of the big firms in announcing price rises. The firm, which started in 2011 and has 150,000 customers, will increase gas and electricity prices by 4.5 per cent. Existing customers will see their bills go up from 8 January, but the price rise will take effect for new customers from Monday. SSE and British Gas have outlined price rises in recent days. SSE announced an 8.2% increase in domestic bills from 15 November and British Gas said prices for its customers would go up by 9.2% on 23 November. These two are part of the group of major UK domestic energy suppliers, known as the “big six”. Ministers have said it has been difficult for smaller firms to compete with these major firms. Co-operative Energy, which operates in England, Scotland and Wales and is part of The Midcounties Co-operative, said it had absorbed half of the increased costs it was facing.

THE NATION MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2013

MONEY MARKET REPORT

N1.19tr FAAC inflows trigger fall in inter-bank rates

ATES across all tenors fell last week over N1.19 trillion Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC’s) fund for August and September released during the week. The rates averaged 10.9 per cent lower than 12.9 per cent average rates recorded the previous week. Data from the Financial Market Dealers Association of Nigeria showed that at Friday, call rate stood at 10.50 per cent, seven-day 10.75 per cent while 90day funds was traded at 11.54 per cent. The inter-bank rate fell by 21 basis points to 10.5 per cent on 17 October, reflecting improved market liquidity from monthly statutory fiscal FAAC inflows, treasury bills and Open Market Operation (OMO) bills repayment. The call/overnight and seven-day money market rates were at 10.5 per cent and 10.8 per cent respectively. The three month Nigeria Interbank Offered Rate (NIBOR) was 11.8 per cent, though fewer activities were done on the tenor. The inter-bank secured lending (Open Buy Back) fell to 10.25 per cent for commercial banks and 10.33 per cent for discount houses. Analysts said the FAAC funds eased the tight liquidity condition that has characterised the system for the past one month. A currencies analyst at Ecobank Nigeria, Olakunle Ezun, said although the market liquidity is above N400 billion, the funding requirement for Retail Dutch Auction System /Open Market Operation bills, might push inter-bank rate up by 150 basis points this week. Meanwhile, the CBN liquidity management remained active, supported by recent change to Cash Reserve Requirement (CRR), according to a circular issued on 1 August reviewing its guidelines for how banks access its Standing Lending Facility (SLF) window.

Power funding The World Bank Group is to provide $1.4 billion to Nigeria in support of efforts aimed at improving power infrastructure, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, said. Mrs. Okonjo-Iweala, who stated this in Washington DC, in her closing remarks at the just concluded International Monetary Fund/World Bank bi-annual meetings, said the World Bank is planning to set up a global infrastructure facility and that Nigeria would be among the first set of countries to benefit from it, given the nation's large size and the scope of its infrastructure deficit. "They want to concentrate on power, and are already actively working with several private sector companies that want to invest in Nigeria. They are promising to give Nigeria about $700million under the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (BRD) guarantees for the power sector, as well as a willingness to invest another $700million to support transmission," she said. She explained that the power infrastructure support finance derived from the initiative of the World Bank Group and its affiliate, the International Finance Corporation (IFC), through its President, Dr. Jim Yong Kim, to list Nigeria to be one of the focused countries in sub-Saharan Africa for their efforts, "particularly in power, which means that they are willing to work with Nigeria to invest in power through the private sector by pulling resources from the US using the offices of the IFC through the Power Africa Initiative to help us address the power infrastructure problems." Forex Eleven banks were selected by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to handle foreign exchange (forex) sales to pilgrims travelling for this year's Hajj. The banks are Union Bank, Zenith Bank, United Bank for Africa, Fidelity Bank and First City Monument Bank. Others are Unity

‘Data from the Financial Market Dealers Association of Nigeria showed that as at Friday, call rate stood at 10.50 per cent, seven-day funds were at 10.75 per cent, while 90-day funds were traded at 11.54 per cent’

• Finance Minister Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala By Collins Nweze

Bank, FirstBank, Ecobank, Sterling Bank, Skye Bank and Keystone Bank. A circular to all authorised dealers signed by Director, Trade and Exchange Department, CBN, WD Gotring, pegged maximum Personal Travelling Allowance (PTA) sale to intending pilgrims at $1,000 at a flat rate of N146 to a dollar. The apex bank also said no commission shall be charged by banks for the sale of the PTA between the approved $750 to $1,000. The issuance of the PTA was done in Lagos and Abuja. According to the CBN, the funds of the respective banks shall be debited as soon as the funds are disbursed.

Syndicated loan Total Exploration & Production Nigeria Limited and Total Upstream Nigeria Limited agreed to borrow $7.5 billion from eight Nigerian banks, Bloomberg reported during the week. Total's spokesman in Nigeria, Charles Ebereonwu, said: "It's meant to finance local contractors and suppliers. It's in line with Total's development program for local contractors." He spoke on phone from Abuja. Banks have increased lending to finance oil, power and infrastructure projects after returning to profit from near-collapse in 2008 and 2009. Lending to the oil industry increased as smaller producers expand drilling. Companies such as London-based Heritage Oil Plc and Lagos-based Neconde Energy Limited bought stakes in fields owned by Royal Dutch Shell (RDSA) Plc, Eni (ENI) SpA and Total, Nigeria's fourth-largest oil and gas producer. The eight lenders providing the $7.5 billion facility for Total's contractors are Guaranty Trust Bank Plc, Ecobank Nigeria, Zenith Bank, Diamond Bank, United Bank for Africa, Standard Chartered Bank, Access Bank and Fidelity Bank, Ebereonwu was quoted as saying. Royal Dutch Shell, Chevron, Exxon Mobil Corp., Total and Eni pump about 90 per cent of Nigeria's oil through ventures with state-owned Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation.. Biometric database Biometric database for all bank cus-

• CBN Governor Sanusi Lamido Sanusi

tomers will be ready by March 2014, The Nation has learnt. The project, which is brainchild of the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Bankers' Committee, is meant to have a central database where all bank customers' information will be collected and stored. Since biometric identifiers are unique to individuals, they remain reliable in verifying identity of each bank customer from bank to bank. According to the CBN, the platform, when completed, would help operators and regulators of the financial system address issues of Know Your Customer (KYC), anti-money laundering (AML), and access to credit. This will help fasttrack use of channels, such as biometric Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) and Point of Sale (PoS) terminals, among others.

NDIC The Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) has stressed its total support for the establishment of a world class Microfinance Training Institute in the country to enhance continuous capacity building in the banking subsector. The Managing Director / Chief Executive of NDIC Alhaji Umaru Ibrahim who made the clarion call also advocated for the incorporation of All Women Microfinance Bank (MFB) wholly owned by Women NGOs in the country, to protect the interest of small depositors and boost public confidence in the microfinance banking sub sector. Ibrahim, who made the call when he played host to the Executive Members of National Association of Microfinance Banks (NAMB) who paid him a courtesy visit in his office, said that the NAMB request for Unit MFBs to have multiple branches and operate cash centres in local government areas of their operations was before a joint Committee which must be critically analysed and judged based on its merit. He, therefore, advised the Association to await the recommendations of the Committee on the matter. The NDIC boss reminded the association of the fundamental role of MFBs as grassroots business units toward enhancing financial literacy and consumer protection in promoting financial inclusion. He emphasized that only happy and

‘The call/overnight and seven-day money market rates were at 10.5 per cent and 10.8 per cent respectively. The three month Nigeria Interbank Offered Rate (NIBOR) was 11.8 per cent, though fewer activities were done on the tenor’

satisfied depositors could guarantee the much needed public confidence in the banking system, saying that the NDIC had put in place 24 hour toll free Help Desk to respond to all enquiries from depositors across the country.

e-clearing Electronic clearing (e-clearing), which is currently implemented only at banks' headquarters, will be extended to all banks' branches across the country in fourth quarter of this year. However, this is subject to Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) approval, The Nation has leant. The policy, which became effective last August, could not be fully decentralised to all the banks' networks because of poor technical know-how and infrastructure needed for seamless takeoff in those units. e-clearing involves stopping the physical movement of the cheque and replacing the physical instrument with the image of the instrument and the corresponding data contained in Magnetic Character Ink Character Reader (MICR) line. The cheque details are captured, typically by the bank presenting the cheque or its clearing agent and electronically presented in an agreed format to the clearing house for onward delivery to the paying bank for payment. Unlike the more common form of presentment where a cheque is physically presented to the paying bank, a truncated cheque is typically stored by the presenting bank electronically. Clearing period under the new rule would allow cheques clear on a T+1 basis such that customers receive value in the morning of T+2 even as the clearing house is also expected to operate three sessions.

Bank report Ecobank has restated its commitment to providing massive funding for local contractors operating in the nation's oil and gas sector. The bank's managing director, Mr. Jibril Aku, made this pledge, during the signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Total E&P Nigeria Limited, Total Upstream Nigeria Limited and eight leading banks in the country, on a $7.5 billion Nigerian Contractors' Initiative, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State at the weekend. In a statement, the bank described the project as laudable, noting that, Ecobank is determined to be a major player in the initiative. Mr. Aku explained that the banking finance programme is being put together by Total to effectively manage its value chain, including suppliers and distributors. He said the whole essence is to empower local contractors to play more active role in the oil sector through sustainable funding.

THE NATION MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2013

EMPOWERMENT CLINIC with

GOKE ILESANMI

AST week, we said most people are only a little amount of money a month away from financial empowerment. We added that financial success or freedom is not about millions of naira in the bank, but simply about generating investment income that exceeds your cost of living. We stressed that financial freedom means that you no longer have to work for money. We discussed some of the things we can do to achieve financial empowerment.

Courage

Research shows that another thing to do about financial worries is to be courageous, especially that fear creates worry. Gordon Gecko (Michael Douglas) asserts that “Greed is good!” Recent investment losses, corporate scandals, and a stagnant economy refute this statement. Instead, a warning is emerging in personal finance fora as we

Financial empowerment through income management(2) search and hope for indications that relief is in sight. Fear is bad! Fear has driven many investors either to dump stocks and load up on bonds, certificates of deposit and other conservative investments or, even worse, to stop saving and investing. This creates new problems. Miller says people will be incapable of achieving their long-term financial goals because their portfolio may now be so conservative that it will not deliver the returns needed to retire in comfort, or they are simply saving too little. “Faced with this fear and uncertainty, financial knowledge is more important than ever. Instead of reacting to the market’s ups and downs, learn more about the characteristics of stocks, bonds, and other investments; as well as the broad array of personal finance and money management topics,” advises this financial expert.

Managing low income

Experts say if you struggle from week to week trying to make ends meet, or are consistently going without things that you really wish you could afford, there are some possible and practical solutions to your dilemma. There are many ideas that you could adopt to help your hard-earned money buy more than you could before. Do you take your lunch to work? You will save a lot of money, if you pack it yourself. Make it interesting so you are not tempted to go and buy something

else. Make your lunchbox food, and that of your children, rather than buying stuff. If you add up the costs of bought biscuits, cakes, etc, you will realise these can be a huge saving, and considerably better for you. It is just a training and prioritising exercise, you can do it if you really want to save the money. According to Mandy Nield, an authority on investing, “Menu planning is a great way I’ve found to reduce my weekly shopping bill. Menu planning involves deciding at the start of the week what you’ll eat EVERY night (and day) that week. Include a couple of pasta dishes or cheapies like tuna mornay or whatever. Determine what ingredients you’ll need for all these meals and then only shop for those items. You’ll find you won’t have the waste and you won’t buy ‘on the spur of the moment’ items. If you put your mind to it, I’m sure you could come up with heaps more ideas of HOW you could make your income go further.”

Personal experience

Nield educates that if you have your belt pulled in as tightly as you can, and you really cannot find any area of your life that you could spend less, then perhaps you can try and increase your income. “I don’t mean ask your boss for a pay rise either. There are many ideas of earning extra income at home, e.g. home-based business ideas or run-

ning your own internet business. Both of these ideas are cheap and easy to start up, you just have to know how and where,” adds this expert. Nield says based on personal experience, investing in real estate, particularly real estate with a POSITIVE CASH FLOW, is the best and most secure way to get ahead and stay ahead. “Before you think ‘I can’t do that, only the rich can invest in property,’ then I want to tell you that ‘ANYONE CAN INVEST in POSITIVE CASH FLOW property.’ You just have to know how. Before you go investing in real estate, I’d encourage you to get educated so that you really know what you’re doing. If it’s not done properly, it could be expensive, but if it’s done correctly, then it will set you up for the rest of your life,” educates this investing authority.

Improving your income

We all want to improve our income, be it our salary or business profits. The following are some ways experts say you can achieve this goal. First and foremost, you need to figure out what you want, and do not settle for anything less without a struggle. Build a fortress around your desires. Figure out how you want it. Figure out how you are going to get it. According to Gordon Goh, author of the free, informative website Simply Motivation offering quality useful tips for motivation, “The difference be-

tween an achiever and a superachiever is that the super-achiever gets out of his comfort zone and tackles the tough stuff. Modest achiever attempts to survive on their reputation. Learn from people who have done it before. Those people always set high goals and achieve for themselves.” Another thing experts suggest you can do is to have focus. Do as you plan and do not let anybody steal your day. People can steal your day with their negative emotions, and sometimes they do not even know that they are doing this. Gravity is always there, and pulls you up through strong focus. Focus on the most profitable activity.

Last words

It is noteworthy that saving more money or earning more income on its own is not going to make you any wealthier. It is what you do with those savings or extra earnings that will set you apart from the normal and help you get ahead in life. Achieving financial freedom through income management requires a good dose of financial discipline, education and determination. You can achieve it. PS: For those making inquiries about our Public Speaking, Business Presentation and Professional Writing Skills programme, please visit the website indicated on this page for details. Till we meet on Wednesday.

WORKPLACE MATTERS

RE you really satisfied with the salary you earn? If you are afraid to answer me, move away from where your boss is and answer me in your privacy. It is a fact of life that we all want to be paid what we believe or know we are worth. In short, Andrew Griffiths says in his book “101 Survival Tips for Your Business” that you should not be afraid to charge what you are worth. To get paid for your worth, you need to radiate unique skills. When you know your exact value, you will request and get the right pay you really deserve. But the major challenge here is that we more often than not, we overlook our best skills, that is, our innate talents, probably because we perform them naturally. Many people undervalue what they are and overvalue what they are not.

Strategy

You can emphasise your soft skills such as exceptional interpersonal relationship, great team play, ability to work under pressure, energetic self-starting, etc., rather than focus on technical skills such as ability to write well, ability to repair computers perfectly, etc., which are very common. Let us illustrate with two presidential candidates Mitt Romney and Bill Clinton. Research shows that Romney emphasised his political views not his business acumen while Clinton concentrated on his skill of interpersonal intelligence as his unique selling point, during their political campaigns.

Closing the gap

Ms. Whitney Johnson, author of

Negotiating the salary that reflects your worth By Goke Ilesanmi

“Dare-Dream-Do: Remarkable Things Happen When You Dare to Dream”, educates that as we attempt to close the gap between what we are paid and what we are worth, there is a lesson to be learnt from the stock market. Johnson adds that in her experience, the stocks that trade at fair value or even a premium compared to their peers are those that know the kind of stocks they are, and then deliver “sustaining innovation”. When we apply this strategy to our career, when we offer the marketplace a unique set of skills and focus on our distinctive innate talents rather than common skills, we are more likely to achieve success and increase what we earn.

Negotiation fear

Many people hate negotiation because they are afraid of being taken advantage of, especially when they think that they are in a weak position. But the combination of the strategy of negotiation and persuasion can make you achieve results. Negotiation involves reaching an agreement on price or on the specific terms of an agreement; while persuasion, on the other hand, is the art of getting people to go along with your points of view, to see everything your own way. But you need negotiation skills to be a good persuader and you need persuasion skills to be a good negotiator. Salary negotiation is a concrete example of negotiation that people hate. Ed Brodow, a motiva-

tional speaker, negotiation guru and author of “Negotiate with Confidence and Beating the Success Trap” says, “Has the fear of rejection - of losing the job or antagonising your boss - kept you from putting your best foot forward in negotiating your livelihood?” If your answer is “Yes”, then there are ways out of your situation.

Doing research

The first way out of your situation is to do your research before negotiating your salary or asking for a rise. You need to find out the policy of the organisation on salaries to know if a fixed range has been established for your position. Also try to know what other people in comparable positions inside the organisation are being paid. Find out what other organisations pay for this position as well as your importance to the organisation. Brodow says if others are being paid more, and you are a key employee, be assertive; but if the policy is not to pay what you want, and you are replaceable, then be prepared to go.

Knowing what you want

Another thing is to know what you want. Mariette Edwards, a business and career strategist says, “Have you ever been at a loss for words when someone asked you what you do? Stumbled through a response trying to describe the kind of job you are looking for? Questioned why you aren’t connecting with the opportunities you seek? Maybe

it’s time to get clear about what you really want.” Steve Kaye, Ph.D., who helps leaders get enduring results, advises that you must know what you want because this obvious step is essential. First make a list of what you want, then go deeper to find why you want it. Susanne Gaddis, PhD, an acknowledged communications expert corroborates this assertion by saying before you ask, know what you want or need. This is a critical first step. Think about precisely what you want before you even say one word. Findings show that many people negotiate for a salary (rise) without having a clear idea of what they want. You need to first know how much you will be satisfied with and then the maximum you think the position will attract. It may be more than your target. If it is, you might begin by asking for more than you want. If the maximum is less than your target, determine if it is acceptable to you and the least you will accept, that is, your bottom line.

Stress benefits derivable from your pay rise

In persuasive business writing, it is said that you must always concentrate on audience-focused benefits not what benefits you. That is why one is expected to include expected benefits and Return on Investment of one’s (prospective) client in a proposal for instance. People easily give when they receive a reward in return. Thus, identify how others can benefit by meeting your requests.

For example, suppose you want a pay rise, you can say, “My salary rise will definitely elicit extraordinary performance from me to the extent that organisational productivity and profitability be will be greatly enhanced.”

Choosing the right time

Choosing the right time constitutes another strategy. In short, one of the fundamentals of effective persuasion is right timing. Gaddis says there are, in fact, more appropriate times than others to make a request. First, consider whether it would be better to ask in private or with others nearby. Some people get flustered when a private matter is discussed in public. Do not discuss your salary as an afterthought by saying, “Before I forget, there is something I think I should talk about too.” Accord the matter the desired attention by arranging a special meeting that will focus on your salary increase. • To be continued Till we meet on Wednesday. •GOKE ILESANMI, Managing Consultant/CEO of Gokmar Communication Consulting, is an International Platinum Columnist, Certified Public Speaker/MC, Communication Specialist, Motivational Speaker and Career Management Coach. He is also a Book Reviewer, Biographer and Editorial Consultant. Tel: 08055068773; 08187499425 Email: gokeiles2010@gmail.com Website: www.gokeilesanmi.com

THE NATION MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2013

Taxation

Administration of withholding tax (1)

ITHHOLDING Tax (WHT) is an advance payment of income tax. In principle, WHT is a payment on account of the ultimate income tax liability of the taxpayer or company. Withholding tax is not a separate tax and does not confer an exemption from the filing of yearly tax returns by the company which had suffered WHT. The tax is deducted at source when a payment is made to the beneficiary. Applicable tax law Withholding Tax (WHT) is not a distinct tax type and therefore has no legislation of its own. It is only a mechanism for the collection of other taxes. Consequently, its application is provided for in the enabling law of other tax types i.e. Section 81 of Company Income Tax Act, Section 54 of Petroleum Profit Tax Act, Section 73 of Personal Income Tax Act and Section 13 of Value Added Tax Act. Tax coverage and income subject to withholding tax The WHT provisions seek to collect taxes that may otherwise have been lost through evasion and/or avoidance. The aim is to ensure that taxpayers’ are correctly taxed but it must be understood that transactions that are ordinarily not liable to tax in Nigeria are also not liable to WHT; thus, contracts and supplies of goods and services performed entirely outside Nigeria by nonresident taxpayers will not be liable to WHT. The residence of the taxpayer is generally not relevant for the purpose of determining liability to tax or the application of WHT, but it is important to consider whether the provider/supplier of the goods or services is liable to Nigerian tax. The rate of tax applicable to the various goods and services is provided in later parts of this paper. The introduction of the WHT regime came about in order to address the problem of tax evasion although, there is the overriding objective of full disclosure, transparency, predictability and fairness. In the light of these objectives and bearing in mind that the tax is intended as an advance payment of tax, its operation should always be optimised to ensure that taxpayers are not overtaxed and Government does not lose revenue. Rents: This includes rental income on both real and personal property. As a general rule, income on a property (rent, hire or lease payments or rights (royalties) situated in Nigeria is liable to tax in Nigeria, the place of payment notwithstanding. Where a person rents or hires property/services from another, WHT at the rate of 10 per cent will apply. But where a person provides services to another for e.g. air/land transport service, using its own equipment/facilities, the transaction becomes a contract of services rather than rental or hire. Interest: This is income from investments of every kind. WHT is applicable to income from government securities and income from bonds or Treasury bills. Interest on loans paid by a Nigerian company is often not subject to WHT. Dividends: Refer to income from shares. The income is subject to tax whether it is received by a Nigeria company or a non-resident company. The tax imposed is regarded as final tax, but corporate bodies are allowed to recoup WHT deduction where the dividend is to be redistributed as Franked Investment Income (FII). The Petroleum Profit Tax Act (PPTA) however exempts dividends payable by oil producing companies on

enough to capture every transaction, other than outright purchase/sale of goods and property. The Revenue holds the view that majority of the activities carried on in the oil industry are done by way of contractions, and should properly fall under this category. The issue of contracts and transactions, not being conducted in the ordinary course of business has over the years been subjected to series of reviews and amendments, aimed at improving the WHT system in order to achieve efficiency as well as minimise the cost of doing business. The aim of withholding tax is not to compound the problems of producers, manufacturers and those engaged in any forms of activities, other than services. The definition of manufacturing activate as contained in the FIRS information circular No. 2002 appears to have further generated more controversy than expected. The following classification will assist in the understanding of circumstances where WHT will apply in relation to any production activity. • Acting Executive Chairman, Alhaji Kabir Mohammed Mashi

‘The aim is to ensure that taxpayers’ are correctly taxed but it must be understood that transactions that are ordinarily not liable to tax in Nigeria are also not liable to WHT; thus, contracts and supplies of goods and services performed outside Nigeria by non-resident taxpayers will not be liable to WHT’ By Frank Obaro

petroleum operations from WHT imposition. Royalty:Refers to unearned income which accrues to the owner from past endeavors. Permission must be obtained before it can be used. It is payment of any kind as a consideration for the use of or the right to use any patent, trade mark or right/ Consultancy/professional/management/technical services: These are specialised services rendered by persons with the required knowledge and skills. The mere fact that services are provided by a company which has consultancy as part of its name does not by itself render such service as consultancy. The real content of the services being provided must be examined and if it amounts to a consultancy service, then the appropriate rate would apply; the same treatment applies to professional/management services. For instance, if an engineering company is carrying out a construction activity, the proper classification for the services would be ‘‘construction’’ as opposed to Professional/Technical services; similarly, the use of industrial machinery/equipment to provide a service does not render it to be ‘Technical’’ because the industry position requires that only arrangements thatinvolve a transfer of Technology should be classified as technical. All types of Contract activities and arrangements, other than outright sale and Purchase of Goods and Property. This classification is wide

Where there is a dual relationship between parties in a business transaction

An example of this contract is where a manufacturer/ producer require raw materials from a supplier for its production. This is dual relationship between both parties and the transaction will not be liable to WHT. For example, a farmer supplies groundnut to a manufacturer of groundnut oil; a manufacturer of glass supplies bottles to a bottling company or soft drink manufacturer or an oil marking company supplies diesel direct to a user.

Where thre is a tripartite relationship between parties in a transaction In a tripartite contract relationship involving a manufacturer, supplier and agent, there could be either two options, depending on the level of financial arrangement. For example, where manufacturer A, engages agent C to procure or source for raw materials from supplier, B, for his production line, there is a tripartite arrangement here. There is nothing preventing manufacturer, A from dealing with supplier B to achieve a dual contract relationship. (a) If agent C is mobilised by manufacturer B with fund to source for materials for its operation, there will be need to segregate the service cost from the entire contraction, and only the service component will be liable to WHT. (b) If agent C finances the sourcing of the raw materials for manufacturer A, the contract value will be liable to WHT at the time of payment.

Where a manufacturer delivers its normal products to its distributors and dealers for sale In this situation, the income accruing to the manufacturer will not be liable to WHT as it is regarded as transaction in the ordinary course of business, but theCommission earned by the distributors/dealers will be subjected to WHT.

Agency transactions & arrangements

Agency arrangement implies a contract between a principal and agent. The reward payable for services rendered by the agent is Commission, which is subject to WHT of 10 per cent. However, if the principal is a non-resident, any sales proceeds from the arrangement will attract five per cent WHT, where any of the conditions in Section 26(1) (b) of CITA holds.

MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2013

POLITICS THE NATION

E-mail:- politics@thenationonlineng.net

Abia State Governor Theodore Orji will complete his second term in 2015. Correspondent UGOCHUKWU UGOJIEKE writes on the succession battle in the state chapter of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Who succeeds Orji in Abia? S

IX years ago, Abia State Governor Theodore Orji succeeded his former boss, Chief Orji Kalu, against all odds. He was in detention when he won the governorship election. In two years, he will face the same challenge of succession. The resolution of the challenge, observers contend, will be crucial to his post-2015 political calculations. Since the state was created, Abia North District has monopolised the number one seat. The first governor, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, hails from Uburu in the present day Ebonyi State. The second governor, Dr. Kalu, hails from Uburu, Bende Local Government. Orji, a native of Ibeku Kingdom, served him as the Chief of Staff. Following the protracted feud between Kalu and former President Olusegun Obasanjo, the former governor defected from the PDP to the Progressive Peoples Party (PPA), on which platform Orji was elected. But when crisis broke out between Kalu and Orji, the latter defected to the PDP. Although Kalu has also returned to the PDP, the crisis between them has not abated. Today, in Abia State, the internal opposition leader in the ruling PDP is the former governor. Both Kalu and Orji are from the Bende Division. Therefore, as agreed by the founding fathers of the state, power should rotate to the Old Aba Division, which is the Ngwa/Ukwa axis. Party sources said that Orji is interested in implementing the rotational agreement between the Old Aba and Bende. However, there are some hurdles to cross. Despite the fact that the governor had assured the people of old Aba division that a man from that area will succeed him, some politicians from the South are still itching to succeed the governor. Their argument is that, when Kalu and Orji were struggling to become governors, the people of the Bende Division also showed interest in the race. The governor has insisted on the previous agreement. At a recent meeting with the traditional rulers from Isiala Ngwa, Orji said: “Mark my words, the people of Abia South are going to produce the next governor of the state”. The assurance has become a tonic for the PDP chiefs from the Abia South. Traditional rulers from the zone have also added their voice. The Umuola Egbelu monarch, Eze Love Wogu, called on the political parties zone the governorship to the district in the

•Map of Abia State

•Orji

interest of equity, justice and fair play. He said there is no shortage of competent politicians to fill the slot. Eze Wogu said that it will be wrong for the position to go to another district in 2015, urging the Ukwa/Ngwa people to also put their house in order. The monarch said that the leaders of the area will back any candidate from the zone. “So long as he or she comes from Ukwa/ Ngwa area, we are ready to back the candidate”, he maintained. The traditional ruler recalled that the state had subscribed to “a charter of equity” as its guiding principle, which says that elective positions would be shared between the old Aba and old Bende, adding that the charter must be obeyed in the interest of political stability. Eze Wogu said that, since the creation of the state 22 years ago,

•Kalu

• Senator Abaribe

‘Since Orji will want to remain relevant in the state after his tenure, he may support a candidate, who will do his bidding, defend his legacies; a candidate who will accord him the respect of a leader. However, many people fear that this may not be possible because permanent political loyalty is a scare commodity in Abia politics’ •Senator Nwogu

the people of Old Bende have ruled the state. “Therefore, it is expedient that power should ro-

tate to Ukwa/Ngwa for the political stability of the state”, he stressed.

The monarch praised the governor for endorsing power shift. He said that courage is rare in politics, urging him to maintain that integrity till the end of his tenure. The state has two blocs, the old Bende and old Aba, and not the senatorial zones. This issue of senatorial zones should be discarded. The Ukwa/Ngwa people should be allowed to compete for the post of the governor. The people of the old Aba are one happy family”, he said. On whether the zone can agree on a consensus candidate, Eze Wogu said that decision cannot be taken by traditional rulers. “But, it is the right of the political parties to do that through their primaries or congress and not the people or the Ezes”, he added. He noted that the governor had already made a promise to his people that he would want the governor of Ukwa/Ngwa extraction to succeed him, “We are expecting the governor to fulfill his promise to this group of people, as a promise is like a debt, which must be paid”, Eze Wogu said. The traditional ruler said that as the people of Ukwa/Ngwa clamour for power shift, they should also remain dedicated to the struggle for the creation of Aba State. He said, if the new state is created, there will be a balanced equilibrium among the six geo-political zones. So far, six governorship aspirants are on the track. Although they have not openly declared their intention, they are holding consultations with the stakeholders. They have been visiting home more regularly in recent times. All of them are from the old Aba Division. They are Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, Senator Nkechi Nwogu, Chris Nkwonta, Labour and Productivity Minister Emeka Wogu, Acho Nwakanma, and F. Nwoso, a lawyer. Others may still join the race next year. Nwoso is an experienced lawyer and friend of the governor. He has handed some legal briefs for the PDP. Many party chieftains admire him for his humility and dedication to the PDP cause. But, he is not perceived as a politician in the real sense of the word. Wogu is a popular politician and he enjoys intimacy with the governor. He also seems to have political structure. But his close associates denied his ambition, saying that he prefer to focus on his ministerial job for now. Abaribe has a good profile. In the Senate, he is not a bench warmer. He is the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media. Nwogu is an Amazon. She has the supporters of the women and youths. She also has a grassroots appeal. Nwakanma is a former deputy governor. He also close to the governor. However, a source said that, since Orji will want to remain relevant in the state after his tenure, he may support a candidate, who will do his bidding, defend his legacies; a candidate who will accord him the respect of a leader. However, many people fear that this may not be possible because permanent political loyalty is a scare commodity in Abia politics.

THE NATION MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2013

POLITICS Hon. Jonathan Asake represented Zangon Kataf/Jaba Constituency in the House of Representatives between 1999 and 2003. He also served as a Senior Special Assistant to former President Olusegun Obasanjo. The National Youth Leader of the Middle Belt Forum spoke with TONY AKOWE on the proposed national conference, national security and other issues.

‘Conference should have no-go areas’ P

RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan has proposed a national conference. What is your reaction? First, I want to commend the President for this act of courage, foresight and yielding to the yearnings of the majority of Nigerians for a national dialogue to discuss the very basis for our corporate existence, to discuss the challenges that are facing this nation and explore the avenue for greater cohesive living. If an opportunity can be created for this, I think that it is a great act of patriotism and courage. I want to say that the committee that was inaugurated was carefully selected by the President and given the mandate to work out a frame work for the conference, which I think is a good and positive step. As Middle Belters, we have already made known what we expect. We expect them to design a framework such that the conference will not be like other conferences before it. The conference deliberations should have no-go areas like before. Let Nigerians talk on issues that bother on our collective existence as a nation. Let everything be brought before the conference for discussion. In addition, all stakeholders in this country must be invited. All interest groups such as socio-cultural and socio-political groups like Ohanaze Idi-igbo, Arewa Consultative Forum, Afenifere, Middle Belt Forum and Southsouth Peoples Assembly should be able to have very strong representation. We should also have ethnic nationalities in attendance because that is where the problem lies. In the North, we have ethnic nationalities that are considered minorities, who have continued to suffer deprivation since the amalgamation of this country and subdued to injustice and oppression as well as extreme marginalisation. Since then, nothing has changed because the

colonialists, when they came, brought in the indirect rule system and subjugated most of these tribes under the majority Hausa/Fulani and what came out of that was the injustices and imbalances you have today, the discrimination, the oppression and it is clear that these structures can no longer hold because the people are agitated and an opportunity must be given to these ethnic groups in the North and those of the south as well as all ethnic nationalities in the country to come together and be part of this discussion on how to make the Nigeria state a more virile and stronger state for everybody. Critics of the President believe that what the President has done is just a Greek gift and that it will not address the issues on ground... The truth is that, in every given situation, you will always have sceptics, who will never believe that anything is genuine, who will never believe the sincerity of purpose for any action taken. You will always have such people. On the other hand, you will always have distractors operating side by side with those sceptics. The distractors are those who will never see anything in its real value. If you kill a lion, they will say you have killed a cat and will never applaud any effort. So, I believe that we have sceptics and distractors of the present government, who will never believe in the sincerity of purpose of anything the President does; while the distractors, combine with the opposition, especially those within his party and government will, always undermine whatever he does. For us in the Middle Belt, we know that we don’t need the verdict of the sceptics or that of the distractors or that of any other person to tell us that the time is ripe for a national dialogue or that the time is ripe for a conference that will discuss the situation that Nigeria finds itself as well as the challenges

•Asake

that are facing us today. So, if they are saying that it is a Greek gift from the President, let them wait and see what will happen because we believe there is sincerity of purpose in the convocation of this conference. Again, if you look at the impunity that is happening in the country today, you will discover that life has virtually become meaningless for every Nigeria, particularly in the North. You can be walking on the street and somebody will come and cut your head, which is criminal in nature, but he can decide to use religion and he is let off the hook. For how long are we going to continue with that impunity? We have to come together and discuss that, if we are living under the constitution, let the constitution be supreme. If we are not living under the constitution because some people don’t want to, let us agree that we will not. But those that agree to live under the constitution where the rule of law abound, should be allowed to live under the constitution, which will be a ground norm. These are the issues and

so, I don’t believe that it is a Greek gift; I don’t believe that it is there to divert attention as some people would want to believe. I do believe that the time is ripe and the symptoms are there that the Nigerian nation is a patient that needs serious medical attention; that needs serious physicians to take a critical look at it and proffer solution on how to cure it. There is this fear, especially in the North, that the national dialogue will divide the country. Do you share this view? That is laughable. It is laughable when somebody wakes up and makes a sweeping statement without any proof as to why he is making such a statement. Why will a dialogue divide a nation? Imagine you have a house where you have a major crisis. It is left for you as the head of the house to call a meeting of your household to say, come let us reason together. It is actually when there is a bad situation that you call for a dialogue and not that dialogue leads to a bad situation. It is a warp logic that someone is thinking that dialogue will lead to confusion. It is only when you have an atmosphere of confusion that you call for dialogue so that you can have a calm atmosphere that is condusive for everybopdy. Those saying so have not substantiated their claim and I believe that this dialogue will not cause disintegration. It is Nigeria that is about to disintegrate because of the impunity, because of the challenges; because of the threat that are coming and because of the weak structures that we have that cannot fight some of these challenges. We have very weak structures that cannot fight corruption and unemployment as well as the vices that we have today and fight insecurity effectively. Look at the fight against Boko Haram. It has been reported time and time again that there are saboteurs within the se-

curity circle sabotaging the efforts of the security agencies. In Nigeria, we cannot count the number of highly trained security agents we have lost since this fight started. The number can only be comparable to a war situation. So, we need to talk about this. So, instead of somebody looking at it as dividing the country, we should look at it as bringing the country together and see reason why we should dialogue on why we must be under the constitution, wipe out corruption, create employment for the teeming youths that are readily available for recruitment into these militant groups, whether in the South or in the North. It is going to give us reasons why our schools should be reopened and why we must go back to the good old days when you don’t have to send your children to private schools. Today, if you don’t send your child to a private school, that child cannot get the best education and it is not everybody that can send his child to the private school. So, we need to come together and ask the question, what brought the decay in our educational system so that we bring the schools back. That is what dialogue will do for us. So, I believe that dialogue will bring cohesion. Your party, the PDP, is in crisis and many believe that the 2015 presidential election is at the heart of this crisis. What is your take on this? Certainly, it is about 2015. On behalf of the Middle Belt, I have said it over and over again. First, since 2011, when President Jonathan was contesting, certain people in the North insisted that he must not contest, which was a clear violation of his constitutional right to contest because he was qualified to contest. Even though the constitution qualified him to contest, they were using a gentleman agreement of the PDP, which itself is under the constitution.

Former Accord Party (AP) senatorial candidate in Oyo North District Chief Oyebisi Ilaka spoke on the Ajimobi Administration, prospects of AP and proposed alliance bewteen the party and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). EMMANUEL OLADESU was there.

Ilaka: AP in alliance talks with Alao-Akala, not PDP

•Ilaka

HAT is the future of Accord Party in Oyo State? The future of the Accord Party in the state is bright. Since the birth of the party, we have been playing the role of the opposition. Before we came, it has always been the two horse race between the PDP and the ACN, now the APC. We have tried both parties in the states and they have not actually brought succour to our people. We represent the new order, in terms of political philosophy. If you are well aware, you will notice that the party was brought to the state, shortly before the 2011 election. Literarily, it was about three months to the election. Since then, the party has been waxing stronger and on monthly basis, we have been having people defecting to the party. And the trend will continue because we really believe that as they come, they will reap the benefit of their inclusion. Some people have a lot of reser-

vations about the leadership style of the AP National Leader, Senator Rashidi Ladoja. What is your view? When he got elected in 2003,the challenge he had then was the distinction between the party and government. The issues he had with Baba Adedibu and former President Olusegun Obasanjo really stopped him from delivering on what he set out to deliver, but in the state today, people still reminisce on what he did. They remember then, that classrooms were not as overcrowded as we have now, it was then 30 students per class, civil servants were well treated, there were job creation, industries were sited in the state and there was a coherence philosophy and ideology, which was articulated to all and sundry. Even beyond that, I have met some of those people who worked with him then. They described his government as more inclusive, that they discussed issues as they arrived and he did not run a one man government. In a nutshell, his style was not napoleonic. He does not rule as if he is an emperor. For instance, I have to introduce some things into the party which he really appreciated and imbibed. He remains a major innovator and I think this is

what we need in the state. In Oyo state, what we need is an agenda for reform. What we have as at now does not fit the challenges of the age we live in. If the APC makes overtures to the Accord Party for the renewal of the alliance, what will be your reaction? I think those overtures don’t have any wing to fly. Such a proposition, as far as I am concerned, is dead. We are the only opposition to them in the state and, if we really want a plural society, things should remain as they are now. We heard that former Governor Ladoja and his erstwhile deputy, former Governor Alao-Akala, have resolved their differences. Does that translate into a romance between Accord and PDP? No, their differences had been resolved. Not only did they work together as governor and deputy, they had a brotherly relationship. Those issues have been resolved, but on the political front, there are discussions. Consultations are still going on, but they haven’t been finallised. Let me add here that the discussion is between Accord and Alao-Akala and not PDP. Yes, we are in alliance talks with him. We recognised

him as a political force in the state, particularly in the Ogbomosho and Oke-Ogun areas. We believed that having contested two elections in the state, he has followership across the state. Ours is a party that seeks to grow organically. So, if, in the path of our growth, we consummate this affinity, I think there is nothing bad in it but we are not in any discussion with PDP. My assessment is that the government is not coherent and it is strictly disjointed. More so, there is a major disconnection between this administration and the people. But our government in Accord is going to be a government that will have a human face and take into consideration what the electorate wants. We will connect with them at all level. We have also said that our elected officials will live within where they were elected. This administration constantly feels that its agenda is contractdriven and not people-driven. So, this is where we have major ideological differences. They are talking about urban renewal, but our philosophy is that, until we fix the rural area, until we develop our agricultural sector, until we develop our industrial sector, until we

‘The state has a team that is not our third eleven, but a mosquito team. They do not have a plan because, when you have a plan and you get to office, what you have to do is to immediately begin to delegate responsibility. We have heard a lot about that executive council. When somebody said people do not contribute, yes it is true, because they do not want to be shouted at by the chief executive, who knows all’

have proper job creating initiatives, which are enduring, not dead end jobs. We understand that jobs will not only give you a way, but help you build and sustain your family. We are not talking about dead end Oyes jobs, where half of the time, they don’t get paid for it. We have a vision. They call us dreamers, but we have a vision of where we want Oyo State to be. We want people to see what our dreams for the state are and show them our pathway. You have traversed three parties within one year because they refused to give you ticket. What will happen, if Accord equally fails to give you the ticket? I am in Accord Party for the long run. I left, PDP for the same reason. I and brothers and fellow-travellers left either for the ACN or Accord. I first left for the ACN. Now, I am in the Accord for the long run, for the foreseeable future. Many have said that Governor Ajimobi has lived up to expectation. Do you believe in this assertion? The state has a team that is not our third eleven, but a mosquito team. They do not have a plan because, when you have a plan and you get to office, what you have to do is to immediately begin to delegate responsibility. We have heard a lot about that executive council. When somebody said people do not contribute, yes it is true, because they do not want to be shouted at by the chief executive, who knows all. The bulk stops on his table because he chose those who work with him.

MOTORING THE NATION

MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2013

With advanced technology systems, the new Skoda Rapid offers more space than one would expect among the B-Segment vehicles and is uniquely adorned inside to cater for growing demands for a budget car. TAJUDEEN ADEBANJO reports.

•Skoda

Skoda out with dynamic Rapid Sedan S KODA may soon hit a chord with the public following the introduction of the all-new Rapid - a straightforward, spacious, good value B-segment competitor. An emerging B–segment Rapid Sedan is Skoda’s first model, incorporating the automaker’s new design language characterised by crisp lines that help to define clean surfaces. Also imbued with technologically advanced systems, the Rapid, according to Skoda, is designed to bridge the gap between the Fabia and Octavia, yet offers more space than one would expect and is uniquely adorned inside to cater for growing demands for budget car with agility of an A-segment car. Stallion Motors Limited (Skoda World) Head of Sales and Marketing, Mr Sanjay Rupani, at the presentation of the Rapid at a press launch in Lagos, said: “Skoda is going places and it would not be out of place to say the automaker wants to revise its production targets upwards, from a stated goal of 1.8 million cars per year by 2018.” He added that the Rapid is Skoda’s latest model in a roll-out of new products that include the new Octavia and a large SUV that would debut soon. “It is the Rapid that brings some balance to the line-up, sitting as it

does in the gap between the Fabia, which was previously referred to as a conventional super-mini. “A straightforward, spacious, good value B-segment sedan, Skoda Rapid will occupy the ‘small family’ ground and soon push the Octavia up into fleet territory,” the marketing helmsman boasted. He described the Rapid as an average-sized car, of average weight and wears the kind of keen price sticker one would expect to find on a car that is aimed mainly at private buyers. “What may well also surprise prospective buyers’ is Skoda’s high-value brand image, quality of materials used inside yet competitively priced,” Rupani said. In the creation of each Skoda car, developers, he said, placed emphasis on added value, especially in relation to the cost (value for money). In this respect, the Rapid, like other Skoda models, employs a raft of solutions under the motto “Simply Clever,” some of which have never before featured in a similar car.” Why then should I buy a Skoda Rapid? Rupani said: “In a market sector where storage space is an important feature, the Rapid enters the fray with good credentials, offering 550 litres of space, expandable to 1, 380litres when

•Interior of the car

the seats are down. This clearly triumphs the Golf for instance, which offers 380 and 1, 318litres. Built in Czech Republic and underpinned by German Technology, the new Rapid ride on what was already a strong foundation and offers more room than any other car in its class, flashing a price tag that undercuts competitions.

Buyers, he said, can similarly explore Skoda world’s mouth-watering deals and finance schemes for keen drivers. Skoda Rapid is available with a variety of engines, but the highlight for Nigeria market is the 1.6bhp MPI / 77kw Turbocharged petrol engine with high pressure direct injection system. This engine offers better handling

when compared to similar vehicles in its category. Standard safety kit on the rapid includes driver and passenger as well as ABS and ESP. All these helped it score full marks in the Euro NCAP crash tests, making it one of the safest cars in its class. Its engines are made such that they offer the best fuel economy with smooth and refined drive.

THE NATION MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2013

MOTORING

Intermotors for Abuja Motor Show with Chevrolet

NTERMOTORS, a division of CFAO Motors Nigeria Limited and the sole distributor of Chevrolet brand in Nigeria is set to hit the Abuja Motor Show with a bang. First, the N1million promo is extended to the show for buyers of Chevrolet Captiva. Second, there will be a special and exciting price offer for those who want to buy the recently launched 2013 model of the Chevrolet Cruze. Third, Nigerians will see for the first time live, a 2014 Chevrolet N300 seven-seater minibus and its cargo van variant. These will be spiced with gift items and special prizes that would excite all visitors to the Chevrolet stand According to Mrs Francesca Fabunmi, Head, Intermotors, this year’s Ninth appearance of the Chevrolet brand at the Eagles Square fair ground promises to be one to remember for a long time to come.

•Cruze By Tajudeen Adebanjo

She said: “We have carefully planned our participation in this year’s Abuja Motor Show in such a way that anyone who visits and buys from our pavilion will have reasons to smile more. “With Captiva, our customers will be

low fuel consumption capacity.” Mrs Fabunmi said Intermotors will be presenting the model of the Cruze during the nine-day event. She also said the Special fair price offer will not be let out of the bag and will serve a surprise package; “all I want to say is that it will be

mouth-watering. We have placed N1million give away on Captiva and it will be interesting to see the expressions of surprise on visitors’ faces when they hear first-hand, the price which Cruze will be offered to them at the show. The taste of the pudding is in the eating.”

Hyundai Motors partners Diamond Bank on car offer

Ember months: Firm offers travellers ‘easy ride’ HE Chief Executive Officer of Ifesinachi Motors, Prince Emeka Mamah, has expressed the preparedness of his company to make the difference in these ‘ember months.’ Mamah said: “We have vowed to give our numerous travellers the best of services never witnessed anywhere in the country. We are strategically positioned to embark on journeys at appropriate times at various locations of Ifesinachi bus terminals. Movements have also been made very easy for our travellers, whereby they can buy their tickets online rather than coming to the office to queue up. We have also procured state-of-the-art passenger jeeps that stand our company out. We have also put in place strategies to ensure that travellers will get to their destinations safely. “The roads have improved when compared to what was obtainable in the past, especially from Lagos to Enugu or anywhere in the east. I commend the powers that be for considering our plight by doing justice to those bad areas on our roads. I want to say that what’s worth doing should be done well rather than keeping quiet and allowing our infrastructure to go bad before considering repairs. It pleases me to say that much had been done and like Oliver twist, more

getting more value for their money’s worth, a seven-seater, all leather 2.4L SUV with a N1m discount! Part of this special motor show bumper package is the special price offer of the Chevrolet Cruze, a 1.8L , 17-inch Alloy wheel curvy glider with multiple safety features and

By Tajudeen Adebanjo

•Prince Mamah By Ebele Boniface

should be done to improve on Nigeria roads. We expect free traffic, less accidents and attacks on the highways.” On the outstanding features of his company, he said: “Ifesinachi’s vehicles are wonders on wheels - very comfortable, roomy, the convenience unequalled and fully air conditioned having seat belts per sit. Each takes maximum of 11 passengers,” adding: “We did this for our passengers who are on the move having in mind the importance of time. “We have initiated measures to make sure that our drivers are well prepared for the challenges ahead. It has been a continuous training, frequent eye checks, good remunerations and working relationship with our management team. Over the years, this has been our guiding principles for our drivers,” he added.

YUNDAI Motors Nigeria Limited (HMNL) in collaboration with Diamond Bank PLC has announced the introduction of flexible sales offer at affordable price. Announcing the incentive which promises to be resilient, HMNL Head, Sales and Marketing, Mr Jatin Nadkarni, said: “The objective of the campaign is to woo perceptive customers to ‘live brilliantly’ by buying precision engineered Hyundai vehicles that

reassures, on value.” He explained that the campaign was part of efforts to implement Hyundai’s brand essence of ‘Modern Premium’ – which seeks to reassert Hyundai’s commitment with new experience and values that are beyond customers’ expectations. The offer is not limited to Accent, Elantra and Santa Fe models. “The sales offer is exclusively seamless without any hidden charges and is open to individuals and fleet buyers,” Nadkarni noted.

Prospective customers, including those without pragmatic account with bank, can also access the scheme to procure any of the aforementioned Hyundai vehicles, the sales and marketing helmsman affirmed. He added that the scheme offers the first three services free in line with Hyundai Service Schedule. Nadkarni said: “The Hyundai experience begins from the very moment a customer walks into any Hyundai Motors Nigeria showrooms nationwide to process an application for a Hyundai car to discover Hyundai’s Brilliant Moment.”

Firm to launch product

LEADING automative and Construction Company, Richbon Nigeria Limited, is set to launch an XGMA construction equipment in Nigeria. The Managing Director, Richbon Nigeria Limited, Assumpta Muonagolu made this known in an interview with The Nation. According to her, the firm is introducing the brand for those desiring to purchase first-class construction equipment at an affordable rate. She said the product, reputed for its high pedigree, would become the second major product to be made popular in the country by Richbon Nigeria after the success its recorded with SINOTRUCK. It would be recalled that SINOTRUCK brand of truck was

By Adeola Ogunlade.

made popular in Nigeria by Richbon and has received the award for two consecutive years, in 2011 and 2012 as the fastest selling truck brand in Nigeria by the Nigeria Auto Award. Muonagolu noted the advantage of using XGMA equipment and machineries are in the area of energy saving, easy maintenance, eco friendly, affordability, durability and efficiency. She said: “XGMA machineries, currently in use in over 80 countries in the world were first introduced into the market in 1951 and the company is rated among China’s 70 most valuable brands.” She stated further that it is expected

•Muonagolu

that shareholder in civil engineering, mining, infrastructure, conservational, DAM and irrigation construction and road construction and road construction would benefit from the product launch.

SAFE DRIVING

HE CDAs will become more active in urging the community members to pay their Land Use charges so that they can enjoy more infrastructures from the government. This will create healthy competition among communities and drastically reduce the rate of default without the government wasting money and time in litigations against defaulters. • In all the areas where the government is embarking on major roads construction, there should be a simultaneous provision of more access roads to absorb the imminent traffic inflow. For example, the expansion work on Ikorodu road will, without doubt, increase the inflow of more people into Ikorodu (landlords, tenants, business clients and visitors). There is, therefore, an urgent need to work on the access road from Owutu to Ojodu via Isheri Oke as proposed by the state government. There is also a

Fashola and traffic chaos in Lagos (II) need to create an access road from Ita Oluwo on Shagamu road to link the Owutu – Ojodu/Ikeja road at Igbolonu junction area. There is also a need to tar the Owutu – Agbede – Ita-Oluwo road. These, if done, in addition to the rehabilitation of the Ikorodu–Shagamu and IkoroduIjebu-Ode roads will go a long way in easing up the traffic to and from Ikorodu thus boosting the economic and social activities in Ikorodu Local Government and the five Local Community Development Associations. The growth and development of the communities will also enhance income generation for the state and local governments in those areas. • Transport touts – There are two categories of transport touts that are constituting nuisance in the Lagos State transport system. The first group are

the touts that call passengers into vehicles, particularly at Jibowu, Mazamaza, and a few other places. These Touts are fond of embarrassing innocent people by dragging Travellers, pulling their bags, making a mockery of responsible citizens. Government should send plain cloth agents to loading points of inter-state transporters to get a clearer picture of the activities of these Touts and take appropriate actions to curtail their excesses in the interest of security, good traffic flow, and human freedom. The second category of Transport Touts are the people working for transport Unions and Local Governments. Some years ago, I sent a comprehensive blue-print to the Lagos State government but it was not even acknowledged not to talk of acting on it. The summary of the suggestion is that the

state government should licence few Intra- state transport companies to manage the intra-state transport vehicles in Lagos State. As part of the conditions for licensing, these companies will be required to have adequate spaces (land) or the government can assist them to secure spaces where possible, to serve as their motor parks. The companies will be given colours, codes or trade marks for identification. Each vehicle will have a number at the front, back and sides so that whenever any of them commits any offence, picking the number (not plate number) will reveal the vehicle and driver details for prosecution. All the levies being collected by Transport Unions and Local Governments on the roads will simply be collected by the various compa-

Jide Owatunmise Registrar / Chief Executive, Professional Driving and Safety Academy nies right in their offices and remit same accordingly. This strategy will keep the touts off the road for the good of Lagos State traffic system.

THE NATION MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2013

NEWS ANAMBRA 2013

Plot by INEC to rig for APGA uncovered

PLOT by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deceive Nigerians and create a façade to enable it rig the election on behalf of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) has been uncovered. A source said INEC as part of efforts to manipulate the results of the November 16 poll, handed over to the parties, the register used in the 2011 election without the supplementary list of new and qualified voters, which it compiled in August. A source close to the electoral body said: “It is clear that what INEC claims to be the authentic and updated voter register is, indeed, faulty and unfit for use in the poll, since in the first place, it does not contain the names of the new and qualified voters compiled in August.” According to the source, “if INEC goes ahead to use the purported voter register it handed over to the political parties in Awka on October 16, it would not only make the November 16 election a

From Chris Oji, Enugu

fraud in that it would have been conducted on the basis of an old and deficient voter register, but chances are that electoral violence may manifest in Anambra State to a level where the political disturbances of 2011 in some northern states would not be comparable.” Feelers in Anambra State show that some aggrieved parties have vowed not to allow the November 16 election take place, while others have decided to sue INEC if it failed to use the updated voter register including the names and particulars of those who participated in the sup-

plementary voter registration in August. A lawyer, who spoke to our correspondent on condition of anonymity, said INEC’s action smacked of an attempt to rig the election, judging from the way the electoral body decided to hand over to parties, an incomplete and an unacceptable voter register. He added: “INEC, in that hurried move, may have tacitly expected the political parties to do its job — the display of the voter register for objections and/or corrections of misplaced names and particulars.” At press time, the voter register, which must contain the

names and particulars of those who registered in August, had not been displayed. According to sections 19 and 20 of the Electoral Act 2010 (as amended) say: “Subject to the provisions of Section 16(1) of this Act, the commission shall, by notice, appoint a period of not less than five days and not exceeding 14 days, during which a copy of the voter register for each local government, area council or ward shall be displayed for public scrutiny and during which any objection or complaint in relation to the names omitted or included in the voter register or in relation to any necessary correc-

tion, shall be raised or filed. “The supplementary voter list shall be integrated with the voter register and published not later than 30 days before a general election.” Resident Electoral Commissioner Prof. Chukwuemeka Onukogu referred our reporter to INEC’s spokesman in Anambra State, who said the issues raised could not be addressed on the phone. Attempts to reach Kayode Idowu, the chief press secretary to the INEC chairman, Prof. Attahiru Jega, proved abortive. The text messages sent to them were not responded to.

ACD candidate may not launch campaign •Chairman: we’re on course From Nwanosike Onu, Awka

HE governorship candidate of the Advanced Congress of Democrats (ACD), Dr. Ifeatu Ekelem, may not launch his campaign. He was seen moving throughout the state with his party members, giving fliers and pamphlets to the people and doing house to housecampaign. A medical doctor, Ekelem, The Nation learnt, does not believe in what some of the ACD members call jamboree and politics of money sharing. When our reporter yesterday visited the state Chairman of the party, Lolo Oby Okafor, she said everything was fine, adding that the governorship election was a big business. On the launching of its campaign, she said: “We are on course. Politics is not about noise-making, walking round the streets with vehicles and shouting. ACD is playing politics the way it should be played. “My happiness is that nobody has written off ACD’s candidate because everybody sees him as a credible person. This is why many people are joining our party. “ACD does not believe in money sharing. We do not believe in lying about how many people have joined our party. Seeing is believing, this is our slogan. “We have set our goals and agenda. The way other parties are working is the way we are working. There is a way we carry out our campaigns and when the time comes, you will see surprises. “The public is ranking ACD 6th, but when the time comes, we shall see whether ACD will be in that position.” The Nation gathered yesterday that members of the party were not happy with the ACD candidate’s way of doing things.

•Supporters of the Progressive Peoples Alliance (PPA) in Dunukofia Local Government Area, when the Ezeemo Campaign Organisation made a sensitisation tour of the local government.

APC’s committees move to field

HE 13 directorates set up by the Chris Ngige Campaign Organisation (CNCO) have moved to the field, with the Director, Special Duties, CNCO, Chief Dennis Ngene, setting the pace in Awka North Local Government Area of Anambra State. Ngige is the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate in the November 16 poll. He is a former governor of the state. Yesterday, the APC candidate visited Onitsha prisons and said it was lamentable that over 800 persons were languishing there instead of 300 inmates. Ngige spoke during the 50th ordination anniversary of the

•Ngige decries number of inmates in Onitsha prison •As Bishop of Onitsha celebrates 50th ordination From Nwanosike Onu, Awka

Most Rev. Valerie Okeke, the Archbishop of the Catholic Church. He said judges should hear some of the cases to decongest the Onitsha prison, adding that most of the inmates had stayed there for years without trial. At the weekend in Awka North, APC members went round the 14 wards, telling the people to vote for Ngige. The enthusiastic crowd shouted Ngige’s chieftaincy title (Onwaa-Onwaa) and most

Anglican Church blasts PDP, APGA

HE Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, Abakaliki Diocese in Ebonyi State, yesterday decried the incessant court cases instituted by politicians in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA). The diocese, at the end of its first session of the sixth synod, attributed the crisis in the parties to the undemocratic way in which the executive members and other influential members of the parties ran their affairs. The resolution of the synod, signed by the Bishop, Rt. Rev Monday Chukwuma Nkwoagu and Secretary of the Synod, Ven. J.C. Agbo, further alleged that this was borne out

From Ogochukwu Anioke, Abakaliki

of greed and inability of the older and influential politicians to nurture and allow the younger ones a place in the scheme of things. “The synod notes with concern too, multiple court actions brought about by the same persons or politicians in courts in Anambra State and elsewhere, pursuant to the forthcoming governorship election in the state with a result that courts grant orders and counter- orders affecting the same parties.” The synod advised politicians to concentrate on delivering democracy dividends to the people instead of distract-

of them displayed his posters. Addressing members of each ward, the former chairman of Awka North Local Government, Chief Dennis Ngene, said the governorship poll was a serious project. He went on: “Anambra indigenes have decided to vote for the person they know very well, who is trusted and tested. His name is Senator Chris Nwabueze Ngige. “All of you can testify to what he did in Anambra State during his short rule. If Ngige had ruled this state for four years, Anambra would not

have been in this mess it is today. “We have come to you, the good people of this state, with our party, the APC, to tell you that Ngige has come to complete the things they did not allow him to finish.” Ngige’s speech was greeted with an ovation of OnwaaOnwaa K’anyi gesso, meaning, Ngige we shall follow. Other committee members also went to their areas to mobilise the people. The visit to Awka North, scheduled to last for three days, will end tomorrow.

Take cue from Imo election, Anambra voters urged

HEAD of the November 16 election, voters in Anambra State have been urged to take a cue from the 2011 governorship poll in Imo State and protect their votes. The Imo State Coordinator of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Marshal Okoroafor Anyanwu, who gave the advice in Owerri, the Imo State capital, said for the people’s votes to count, “it must be guided after the voting.” He said efforts to rig the Imo State governorship election by the powers that be were frustrated by the determination of the electorate, adding that APC was favoured to win the Anambra governorship poll if the peo-

From Okodili Ndidi, Owerri

ple ensured that their votes counted. According to him, the APC candidate, Senator Chris Ngige, is the candidate to beat, adding that his track record of achievement will guarantee victory. “In Imo State during the election between Ikedi Ohakim and Rochas Okorocha, we did not only cast our votes, but came out to protect the votes and at the end, the will of the people prevailed. I think Anambra people should learn from that experience and insist on a free and fair election,” Anyanwu said.

PDP governorship ticket takes twist From Nwanosike Onu, Awka

HE governorship ticket of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the November 16 election has taken a twist, with Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu cleared by the party as its standard-bearer. Although the matter between Ukachukwu and Comrade Tony Nwoye is still pending in court, the state Chairman, Prince Ken Emeakayi, said at the weekend during a rally for Ukachukwu in Awka that he had been cleared. Mounting the rostrum at the spacious Emmaus House in Awka, in front of a crowd of PDP supporters, Emeakayi said the National Chairman of the party, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur and members of the National Working Committee (NWC) took the decision last Thursday and Friday. He said he was at the meeting in Abuja with Nwoye, Ukachukwu, Prince Arthur Eze, Senator Andy Uba and the National Publicity Secretary of the party, Chief Olisa Metuh, where Ukachukwu, popularly called Ikukuoma (Wind of Glory), was given the mandate. Emeakayi went on: “Our job is code- named, Operation deliver your booth and not your ward. I’ve been waiting to see the person, who will deliver victory to PDP and the moment is here. “During the meeting with Tukur and others, including those who vied for the governorship ticket of our great party, we were told that we had a governorship candidate in Anambra, whose name appeared on the list of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

‘AMCON did not seize Capital Oil’

R. PATRICK Ifeanyi Ubah, the Labour Party’s (LP’s) candidate in the November 16 governorship election, has once more been vindicated in regard to the falsehood being spread by his political opponents that he opted to run for the governor of Anambra State because he was broke. Spokesman for the Ifeanyi Ubah Election Campaign Committee, Ayo Akinola, said in a statement yesterday that Ubah’s opponents and detractors have, for want of any genuine reason to attack him, fed the public with the malicious lie that he was broke and was therefore desperate to be elected the governor so that he could use state’s funds to pay off his debts. The statement reads: “These persons also alleged that the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) took over his company because of his inability to properly manage the company’s affairs. “Nothing could be further from the truth. As Abraham Lincoln stated in a letter to Secretary of War Edwin Stanton, ‘Truth is generally the best vindication against slander’. “Despite Ubah’s insistence that he resigned as the Managing Director & Chief Executive of Capital Oil & Gas Industries Limited so that he could pursue his political ambition and that the company was a going concern, there was no let up in the politically- motivated campaign of calumny against him. It has once more been shown that no matter how long you suppress truth, like cream, it will surely rise to the top.

THE NATION MONDAY OCTOBER 21, 2013

NEWS Ex-Head of service hails Rotary efforts

ORMER Commissioner and Head of Service in Enugu State, Chief Clement Okwor, has hailed Rotary Club’s support for communities. He spoke in Enugu when explaining the rationale behind the selection of some rural-based health facilities for assistance on maternal and child health issues in the state by the Rotary Club of TransEkulu Enugu, District 9140 Nigeria, with support from Rotary Clubs and Foundations in Germany, Austria and the United States. According to him, five community-based hospitals to benefit from the intervention are: Udi General Hospital in Udi Local Government Area, Amurri Cottage Hospital in Nkanu West L.G.A, AkpuogaNike Cottage Hospital in Nkanu East L.G.A, Awgu General Hospital in Awgu L.G.A., and Atasiobi Specialist Hospital in Tans-Ekulu, Enugu urban. On the selection system adopted before those hospitals were picked, the former head of service said: “We adopted vigorous screening and analysis before we picked those to be assisted and our sponsoring partners from abroad were also part of screening processes.” He said his club took up the problems of those health facilities close to the rural people after concluding a previous programme on sensitisation of rural communities on the danger of child bearing.

Thugs invade Delta community From Okungbowa Aiwerie, Asaba

HERE is tension in Otulu, a satellite community of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom in Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State, following attacks by suspected thugs on residents of the community. The Nation learnt that the thugs are suspected to be from a neighbouring community in Aniocha North Local Government. It was gathered that the hoodlums allegedly defiled and killed young women. The recent attack, it was learnt, may not be unconnected with a tussle over the land bounding the two communities. The Nation gathered that several persons had been killed and injured in the past as the attackers allegedly refused to obey a court injunction restraining both parties from trespassing on the disputed land pending the determination of the suit. A resident of Utulu, George Okafor, said he was beaten to a pulp, while his agent was allegedly shot in the arm by over 30 hoodlums, who attacked them. He said: “I was a victim of the recent attack. We had gone to paste this enrolment order, but immediately after pasting it, we saw more than 30 of them with cutlass, guns and iron rods. They descended on us. “They beat me up with a cutlass and shot one of my boys in the hand. There was a bullet in his hand and I took him to the police station in Ogwashi-Uku so that he could go to the hospital to extract the bullet and treat the wound. “They did not stop there, the house where they met us after pasting the order, they razed it. They damaged the restaurant operated by a woman.”

•From left: Governors Sullivan Chime (Enugu), Theodore Orji (Abia), Emmanuel Uduaghan (Delta), Liyel Imoke (Cross-River), Peter Obi (Anambra), Deputy Governor Ebonyi, David Umehia and Deputy Governor Bayelsa, Gboribriogha John Jona, at the Southeast/Southsouth Governors Forum in Enugu... yesterday.

MEND vows to visit Bonga offshore oil platform again T HE Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND) has vowed to visit again, the Bonga offshore oil platform in the Niger Delta, which its fighters earlier attacked. It also claimed responsibility for sabotaging the Trans Niger Pipeline (TNP) of the Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited (SPDC) in Ogoni land. MEND, yesterday in an online statement by its spokesman, Jomo Gbomo, regretted the collateral damage to the environment in Ogoni and other communities in the Niger Delta, caused by ravaging crude oil spills and gas leakages, following its Hurricane Exodus. The Anglo/Dutch oil giant (SPDC), on Friday, lifted the force majeure on the Bonny Light exports, following the

From Bisi Olaniyi, Port Harcourt

repair of the spill points on the TNP. Shell’s spokesman, Precious Okolobo, said the oil firm was committed to paying compensation, in line with the provisions of the law. The force majeure was declared on October 10, in view of production deferment from the spills, which were recorded on the 24-inch line of the TNP at B-Dere and Nonwa-Tai in Ogoni, Rivers State. The production was switched to the 28-inch line of the TNP, which was also briefly shut down for repair, following a fire at Patrick Waterside, Bodo-Ogoni in Gokana Local Government

Area of Rivers State and reopened on October 16. SPDC noted that repair of the 24-inch line was progressing and it remained shut in. Shell said: “Joint investigation of the spills has been completed and the reports signed off by all participants, including the representatives of the regulators, SPDC, security agencies and communities. “While the spill at B-Dere came from a hole drilled by unknown persons, it was confirmed that pipeline failure was responsible for the incident at Nonwa-Tai. “About 2,200 barrels of oil were spilled, of which more than 1,500 barrels have since been recovered. Further remedial measures, clean-up and

Rivers disagrees as youth council sacks exco

HE National Executive Committee (NEC) of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has dissolved the Rivers State Executive Committee (exco) of the body, hours after the state government passed a vote of confidence in the displaced leadership. The Commissioner for Youth, Owene Wonodi, at the weekend passed vote of confidence in the Kingsley Ibanichukwu-led state Executive Committee of the NYCN, saying the government recognised no other leadership in what appeared to be a preemptive opposition to the dissolution declared later by the national leadership of the apex youth body. At an extra-ordinary emergency meeting held yesterday in Port Harcourt, the National President of the NYCN, Yakubu Shendam, said the action was taken to correct ir-

‘The Commissioner for Youth has no choice over this matter. This is strictly a National Youth Council affair and we have acted in order’ From Precious Dikewoha, Port Harcourt

regularities, including abuse of power and financial misconduct by the Ibanichukwuled Rivers State leadership. He said: “Many things have gone wrong in Rivers State. We will not tolerate the activities of the NYCN being run like a personal property. We cannot watch our youths

being led astray. In accordance with the constitution governing the council and by the power vested in me, I hereby dissolve the Rivers State Executive Committee led by Ibanickukwu. “We are inaugurating an interim committee pending investigation, resolution and possible by-election for a new Rivers State Executive Committee. This inauguration also affects local government area coordinators where the interim body will appoint and swear in new leaders. We task the interim committee to be committed in the service of the youths.” The Deputy President of the body, Chinwendu Ordua, who hails from Rivers State, said: “The body has decided. The Commissioner for Youth has no choice over this matter. This is strictly a National Youth Council affair and we have acted in order.”

repairs are continuing. “SPDC again regrets the unfortunate incident and is carrying out a detailed investigation of the root cause of the pipeline failure.” The oil giant also said arrangements for payment of compensation were being made, in conjunction with the people of Bunu-Tai and Nonwa-Tai, the two communities which the joint investigation confirmed were impacted by the spill. MEND, however, declared that its Hurricane Exodus continued to gather strength, claiming that it swept through the swamps and creeks in the Niger Delta, leaving seriously damaged Shell’s Trans Niger and Feeder pipelines, harassed security operatives and scurrying oil workers in its wake.

Two arraigned for theft From Okungbowa Aiwerie, Asaba

TWO persons have been arraigned on a three-count charge of conspiracy, stealing and causing breach of peace. The suspects, a 51-year-old woman, Mary Eboigbe and James Mordi, were arraigned at an Asaba Chief Magistrate’s Court at the weekend. But the co-accused, Mordi, 43, was also charged with threat to life. The accused on September 23 at the Asaba/Onitsha Expressway, Asaba within the Asaba Magisterial District, conspired to steal, an offence punishable under Section 516(A) of the Criminal Code Law, Cap C21 Vol. 1 Laws of Delta State 2006. The accused on the same date and place allegedly stole 14 property cumulatively valued at N20, 030,000.00 belonging to Paul Omerah of Paulson O. Omerah Enterprises Nigeria Ltd. The offence is punishable under Section 390(9) of the Criminal Code Law, Cap C21, Vol. 1, Laws of Delta State 2006.

Enugu poll: Parties allege disqualification of candidates

ANDIDATES of the opposition parties earlier cleared by the Enugu State Independent Electoral Commission (ENSIEC), to participate in the November 2 local government election, have been allegedly disqualified by the commission. The All Progressives Congress (APC) raised the alarm yesterday that it got a letter of disqualification of its candidates from ENSIEC. The party accused Governor Sullivan Chime of being involved in the disqualification through the proxy of ENSIEC Chairman, Dr. Bonny Eneh. APC Chairman of the Enugu State Election Committee, Dr. Ben Nwoye, who showed the documents that cleared and later disqualified the candidates, said the party would today file an injunctive relief to stop the election.

From Chris Oji, Enugu

In the documents, Nwoye pointed out that whereas the party received a letter of clearance on October 11, it received the contrary letter on October 19 that was backdated to October 14, but the party received the disqualification letter on October 19, while the close of time for the substitution of candidates was October 16. Enugu State Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Okechukwu Nkolagu, said up till yesterday he had not received a contrary letter of disqualification of his party’s candidate even when Governor Sullivan Chime at three campaign rallies said only the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) would go into the election.

Murder of 25-year- old graduate sparks anger in Delta

ONTROVERSY has trailed the alleged killing of a 25-year-old Microbiology graduate of the Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka, Miss Radah Elsie Agbaje, at Boji-Boji Owa in Ika North East Local Government Area of the state. The victim was allegedly killed in the night of October 10, around Meme Street, barely weeks after she graduated with a second class upper degree from DELSU.

•Parents slam police’s ‘robbery theory’ From Shola O’Neil, Southsouth Regional Editor

Her mother, Mrs. Rose Dolore Ironsi, said: “My daughter was stabbed all over her face. Her eyes were battered; she was stabbed in the eye. Her jaw was slit; they used a weapon to cut her chest.” Our investigation showed that her death has pitted her parents against the Owa-Uyi-

bo Police Division in the state over perceived shoddy handling of the case. It was learnt that Miss Agbaje was sleeping in a room in her aunt’s home when her killers broke in through the roof and murdered her in the presence of an eyewitness, who was sleeping in the room with her. Speaking with our report-

er, her mother, Mrs. Ironsi, lamented that the police failed to quiz the witness, with whom the deceased had a running battle before her death. Mrs. Ironsi was also unimpressed with the armed robbery theory of the police, stressing that her late daughter’s three mobile telephones, those of the witness and other valuables were not left in-

tact in the house. She said: “According to the suspect (name withheld), who share the same room with my daughter and was on the same bed with her the day she was murdered, the incident started about 2am. “She said they were armed robbers. She said they were two gunmen. She said they beat them up. I asked her if they beat them with a gun, she said no that they flogged them.”

THE NATION MONDAY OCTOBER 21, 2013

NEWS (SHOWBIZ) Sequel of Segun Arinze’s ‘Black Arrow’ underway

F there is one nickname that has stuck on actor Segun Arinze, it is ‘Black Arrow’, the name of a ruthless criminal character he played in a film entitled ‘Silent Night’. Leveraging on the success of that flick, producer Chico Ejiro is about to continue the story in a sequel he called ‘The Return of Black Arrow’. Ejiro, through his Grand Touch Production outfit, is already asking for applications by interested actors for the new job. In a social media message, the producer announced that auditions for the job will hold on November 5th, 2013, revealing that stunts would be needed. A very emotional story in the wake of the Nollywood era, in which a father had to sentence his own son to death by firing squad, Arinze played a spectacular role as the leader of an armed robbery gang in this 1996 trilogy. He held viewers spellbound with his lines which really reflected his ruthless nature. His characteristic neck-twitching also added colour to his character. Ejiro said the audition holds at his number 6, Tafawa Balewa Crescent office, Surulere, and that priority will be given to members of Actor Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Association of Nigerian Theatre Practitioners (ANTP) and National Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners (NANTAP).

Tunde Kelani seeks fund to complete movie

•Kelani on the set of Dazzling Mirage

HE much-publicised Tunde Kelani’s awareness movie on Sickle Cell Anaemia, Dazzling Mirage, appears to have hit a brickwall, with the filmmaker seeking public donation to see the production through. Just last month, his mentee, Kunle Afolayan was at a cross road, on whether or not to toe the same line to complete his $2o million movie; ‘October 1’, which got a little less than 50 percent funding from Toyota Nigeria and Lagos State Government. The actor/producer appears to be trudging along, as the movie is in post production stage. Underscoring the implication of the scourge to the society, TK, as he is fondly called believes it is a campaign everyone should par-

•Arinze

take in, prompting his new idea of a public-joint investment which he says will rescue the film from its present logjam. “There are still many more characters and scenarios to shoot, which means production of Dazzling Mirage is not even yet on the home stretch. The finishing funds will be used to complete the remaining 25 percent; principal photography which is temporarily suspended and it can also launch us into postproduction stage.” The help campaign which is already trending online is asking potential donor to ‘Become a Dazzler’, by choosing from five categories of investments. With the least being $10 for a category called Dazzler, there is the $25 slot for Dazzling Daz-

zler, a $50 for Super Dazzler, $100 for Great Dazzler, $500 for Incredible Dazzler and $1000 for Top Dazzler. “We need N10m to complete Dazzling Mirage, but hope to raise N3m ($20,000) which will last a few days of filming. Our campaign is about two days old - we’ve a long way to go. But by God’s grace, we shall win,” said the filmmaker who is currently at Indiana University with MAAMi, his previous work, to discuss in a workshop tagged “Digital Paradox - Piracy, Ownership & The Constrains of African Cinema”. Dazzling Mirage tells the story of a talented, beautiful young sickle-cell sufferer who overcomes social stigma, prejudice and her own low self-esteem, to achieve career success, marriage and motherhood.

The movie features an allstar cast including Kemi (Lala) Akindoju, Kunle Afolayan, Yomi Fash-Lanso, Seun Akindele, Taiwo Ajai Lycett, Bimbo Manuel, Carol King, Khabirat Kafidipe, Bukola Awoyemi among others. The film is an adaptation of Olayinka Abimbola Egbokhare’s Dazzling Mirage, screen-played by Londonbased Nigerian screenwriter Ade Solanke. “It is an interesting love story,” said Kelani, “because all of us are connected directly or indirectly to the sufferers of this ailment. I’m intrigued by the writer’s approach to weave a love story with it and that to me, it is an attraction. I have also had personal relationship with sufferers of this ailment and I consider it my responsibility to bring their story to fore.’’

Nigerian comics outshine foreign counterparts at Glo Laffta Fest

T was a fun ride for Nollywood actress Funke Akindele, who, at the weekend, took delivery of a bicycle, worth about N500, 000. The bike was a gift from the Rotary Club International, which few weeks ago, announced the actress as the latest face in their campaign on Polio eradication. Jenifa, as she is fondly called, rode a bike for five kilometers. It was the second time she would ride in her life; the first being three years ago, on a movie set, she recalled. Beyond the fun, the thespian noted that she felt fulfilled to be giving back to the society in form of the campaign, saying: “I hopeful that polio will end finally.” The endorsement is charity based, and Akindele is expected by her role, to go from town to town, helping Rotary achieve its goal of a poliofree world in a new public awareness campaign tagged ‘This Close’. Part of the campaign will go on billboard, where the actress will be seen raising her thumb and forefinger to illustrate the ‘This Close’ crusade in the ad tagline that says, “We are this close to ending polio.” “I feel so honored to be part of a charitable cause like this. I accepted this appointment because polio kills or paralyses children, and Rotary is committed to ending this terrible disease worldwide. I also learned that the world has never been so close to eradication of polio since the mid 80’s thanks to

Stories by Victor Akande

•Akindele with other bikers

Funke Akindele begins race for Polio the vigorous efforts of Rotary International and its partners,” she said. Other notable persons who are noted for the Polio campaign include: Computer icon Bill Gates, Nobel Peace Laureate Archbishop Desmond Tutu, action movie star Jackie Chan, Pop star

PSY, Northern Nigerian singer Dan Maraya Jos and Hausa language film star Sanni Danjer. However, like the mantra of ‘using one stone to kill two birds, the actress believes that the bike will also enhance her physical fitness, as she embarks on regular exercise.

UT for the rescuing performance by Ugandan comic, Salvado, ‘Laffta Fest’, the Globacom-sponsored comedy show, which held at the weekend, could have suffered a serious anticlimax, judging by the show of the headliner acts, who were brought in from the United States. International comedians, Tony Roberts and Deray Davis of the United States, were the leading acts of the show which held on Saturday, at the Expo Centre of Eko Hotel & Suites, Victoria Island Lagos, with a follow-up edition billed for Abuja at the popular Thisday Dome on October 25. With what many considered a ‘home advantage’, the Nigerian comedians at the show raised the bar so high it was difficult for the visiting artistes to measure up. It was amazing, how Buchi led the crowd on the path of roaring laughter being the guy who opened the comic leg of the show. The event had earlier featured masquerade-styled saxophonist Lagbaja and hip-hop act Wande Coal, who gave a firsthand excitement the crowd. Buchi tempo was sustained by Okey Bakassi, Bovi, Julius Agwu and Alibaba, who took turns one after another to thrill the audience. When it was the turn of the visiting artistes, South Africa’s Ndumiso Lindi led the way

•Roberts

•Davis

with jokes that it appeared the audience were struggling to comprehend. By this time, the audience, most of whom gained access to the venue by recharging their Glo line with a N1000 air time, began to reduce in size. The two comics from US had come, each, with a support act who performed ahead of them. The session by Donnivin who was the support act to Deray Davis was marked by incoherent laughter; with jokes bothering on the pride of America on one hand, and the poverty and degradation that exist in Africa on the other hand. “All I knew before coming to Nigeria was what America taught me about Africa, and I must tell you, they get you all ‘fkd’ up,” he said, while passing remarks on the fate of the people, he noticed live on water, while passing through the Third Mailand Bridge. “Thought I

grew up to know what poverty is like, but seeing people living on the water without ‘light’ gives me a reason to thank God.” Donnivin’s jokes and mannerism were not too different from those of his countryman; Robert, the support act for Tony Robert and their two masters. It was obvious the visiting comedians took solace in some spontaneous moments wherein they threw jibes at the audience. But excitement rose again, just before the two big acts came on stage. It was the turn of Ugandan comedian Salvado who brought the African flavour to the show with hilarious jokes that got him a standing ovation as he wrapped up his 20 minutes performance. His moment was a rescue, even to jokes shared by David Kau, the second South African artiste on the show.

THE NATION MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2013

NEWS APC meets on national dialogue

‘Amaechi does not teleguide judges’

IVERS State AttorneyGeneral and Commissioner for Justice, Worgu Boms, at the weekend denied insinuations that Governor Rotimi Amaechi has been teleguiding the ways judges are performing their functions. He described such allegation from the “legal standpoint as not only a criminal contempt, but also as a part of the political group’s emerging desperate politics in the state, which does not hold anything sacred except that which accords with the group’s political calculation.” Boms, in a statement titled: ‘Rivers State Does Not Have Only Four Incorruptible Judges’, was reacting to a publication by Monwan O. Etete that Governor Amaechi was controlling the Acting Chief Judge, Justice P.N.C. Agumagu, to transfer some political cases

away from four ‘incorruptible judges’. The Justice Commissioner, who just came back from Boston, United States after attending the one-week International Bar Association (IBA) Conference, added: “By stating as Monwan O. Etete’s political Group did, that Acting Chief Judge has begun the transfer of those cases from four of these 35 judges, which four they described as uncompromising and unapproachable(long words for incorruptibilty) to the other ‘judges, who are willing to do the bidding’ of His Excellency, the Governor (long words for Corruption),the group is clearly alleging that the other eminent and hardworking and conscientious judges-having appeared before all of them as a practising lawyer, I can confidently so describe them as conscientious

and hard working- are all corrupt and can therefore not be trusted with the handling of cases, or at least, to use their languages, political cases.”. Describing the involvement of the Chief Registrar as unfortunate, Boms submitted that “the polity cannot make real progress with this style and brand of politics with blackmail as its trademarks. I appeal that in the interest of all those who live in this state, the judiciary which has its several inherent systems of self-correction including its appellate machinery should not be treated as the Monwan’s group has done and are doing through several sponsored publications by different names.” “Let all political bitterness cease. Let political power and relevance be sought for through decent, non-violence and ruled-based means, for judges are the last bastion of

Continued from page 4

•Amaechi

our civilisation and civility and the best evidence of our love of liberty and our membership of humanity and respect for judges is a proof of our individual and collective subscription to the high ideals of justice and deep appreciation of the very crucially important work their Lordships perform for our beleaguered polity,” he said.

Wike, Obuah destroying Jonathan, says forum

HE Minister of State for Education, Nyesom Wike and chairman of a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Felix Obuah have been accused of destroying President Goodluck Jonathan. The President, Rivers Peoples Forum (RPF), Charles Bekwele, said this in a statement yesterday. The statement reads: “Mr. Felix Obuah, who pompously parades himself as a factional chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) in Rivers State has continued his grossly thoughtless, ill-mannered and horrid, though fruitless mission of denigrating and disparaging the person and office of the Governor of Rivers State and the Chairman of the Nigerian Governors Forum(NGF), Chibuike Rotimi

Amaechi. “It is important to note that Obuah has now made discrediting and running down Amaechi his biggest life mission. “The Rivers’ Peoples Forum (RPF), an umbrella body of all Rivers people both at home and in diaspora, over the months have watched with disgust the scurrilous comments and statements of Wike, Obuah and others who persistently assail the person and office of the Governor of Rivers State under the pretensions of defending and fighting for President Goodluck Jonathan and his dear wife, our lovely, beautiful sister Patience. “In reality, Nyesom Wike, Felix Obuah and their co-travellers by their actions and statements are hell-bent on de-

stroying the office of the President and dragging the name of its present occupant and his wife through the mud. Their penchant for dragging the name of President Jonathan and his wife into their petty war of attrition against Governor Amaechi is tantamount to rubbishing President Jonathan in a most brutal and crude

manner and a vicious humiliation, disrespect and bastardisation of the office of the President.” “It’s an open secret that Wike and his cohorts have always invoked the name of President Jonathan and his wife, Patience, who they fondly call ‘mummy’ in their ‘war’ against Governor Amaechi.”

Youths attack acting governor Continued from page 4

the police would not fold their arms and allow such unbecoming behaviours by the youths. He said that the police had

deployed troops of mobile and regular police to maintain the peace in the area. He assured that anyone found to be involved in the attack would face “the full wrath of the law”.

Why meeting failed, by stakeholders Continued from page 4

Olayiwola Adeyemi 111 and his Ibadan counterpart, the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Samuel Odulana, were not invited to the consultative meeting preceding the National Conference, it was learnt yesterday. The Akure meeting was attended by interest groups, monarchs, individuals either of Ondo State origin or based in the state. Virtually all firstclass monarchs in the state attended the meeting. Alaafin’s media aide Prince Azeez Fehintola said the monarch was not aware of any invitation for the meeting. A member of the Olubadan Council, High Chief Lekan Balogun, also said he was not aware of any invitation letter sent to the Olubadan. But Balogun, who is a former senator, said he received a personal invitation from the committee through a text message in the morning of the day the meeting was held. He pledged to attend the meeting slated for Lagos. The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) also

said that it did not receive an invitation to the meeting. The president of the council, Chief Bayo Oyero, however, told our correspondent last night that CCII would sent its memorandum to the committee. He said: “We were not invited, but that is not the end of the story. We are preparing our memorandum and we will send it to them. We don’t have to present it. All interest groups can’t be there. We heard the announcement on the electronic media. Public presentation is not the only means of reaching them. We will send our memo to their office.” The interim Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State, Chief Akin Oke, also said the party did not receive an invitation for the meeting. After the Akure sitting, the panel moves to the Northcentral region with a sitting in Jos, Plateau State capital today and Minna, Niger State on Wednesday. The train moves to the Southsouth with sitting in Calabar, Cross River State on Friday and Benin, the Edo State capital on October 28.

SPACE FOR SALE

cure uncritical acceptance for a second term. Since the conference may not be completed before the next electioneering, spin doctors may capitalise on the prolonged process to drum support for the President’s second term bid, with the rationalisation that since he started the dialogue, he should be re-elected, so that he can complete the process. Southeast governors have slated a meeting with leaders of Ohanaeze Ndigbo this week to finetune the Igbo position at the dialogue. Ohanaeze, at its meeting at the weekend, decided to consult the governors on the need to present a common position that would be canvassed at the conference. After meeting with the governors, Ohanaeze will make its position on the conference public, a source said yesterday. Governors of the Southeast and Southsouth states

met in Enugu with a pledge to continue to foster economic cooperation and unity between the two zones. They reiterated their commitment to the success of President Jonathan’s administration. Cross River State Governor Liyel Imoke told reporters after the meeting that the two zones had agreed to foster economic cooperation to ensure the development. Although Imoke did not give details of their deliberations, it was learnt that the governors discussed common areas of agreement to be presented by the two zones to the National Conference Committee. The meeting was attended by Imoke (Cross River), Emmanuel Uduaghan (Delta), Peter Obi (Anambra), Theodore Orji (Abia)and Sullivan Chime (Enugu). Governors of Bayelsa and Ebonyi states were represented by their deputies. Governors of Rivers, Edo, Akwa Ibom and Imo were absent. They sent no representatives.

40,093 PHCN’s workers cleared Continued from page 4

They threatened to scuttle PHCN’s privatisation, if the government failed to address the problem. To avert crisis, the government

decided to settle the workers’ outstanding ahead of January 2014 when the Transitional Electricity Market (TEM) will take off.

THE NATION MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2013

FOREIGN NEWS Suicide bombing in Iraq kills 35

Aftermarth of a suicide bomber attack at eastern entrance of Hama City, Syria...yesterday

Somali suicide bombing kills 16 AU soldiers

T least 16 people have been killed and more than 30 injured after a suicide bomber blew himself up in a crowded restaurant in the central Somali town of Beledweyne. The Islamist militant group al-Shabab has said it carried out the attack. The Somali government, backed by troops from several African countries, is fighting al-Shabab for control of the country. Al-Shabab said its target was Ethiopian and Djiboutian soldiers in Beledweyne. The bombing occurred at a tea shop popular with the troops in Beledweyne, 300km (185 miles) north of the capital, Mogadishu, close to the border with Ethiopia. “Our main target was Ethiopian and Djibouti troops who invaded our country,” Sheikh Abdiasis Abu Musab, al-Shabab’s military operations spokesman, said. But witnesses, including a Somali MP in Beledweyne, Dahir Amin Jessow, have told the BBC that most of those killed were civilians. “There is a lack of medicine in the hospital and they can’t cope with the flood of wounded patients, so we asked the central government to send us planes to evacuate patients,” Mr Jessow said by phone. Al-Shabab militants have been driven out of Somalia’s major towns, including Mogadishu and the key southern port of Kismayo, by a UN-mandated African Union force of some 18,000 soldiers.

PHOTO:REUTERS

Afghan special forces commander defects

N Afghan army special forces commander has defected to an insurgent group allied with the Taliban in a Humvee truck packed with his team’s guns and hightech equipment, officials in the eastern Kunar province said yesterday. Monsif Khan, who raided the supplies of his 20-man team in Kunar’s capital Asadabad over the Eid alAdha religious holiday, is the first special forces commander to switch sides, joining the Hezb-e-Islami organization. “He sent some of his comrades on leave and paid oth-

ers to go out sightseeing, and then escaped with up to 30 guns, night-vision goggles, binoculars and a Humvee,” said Shuja ulMulkh Jalala, the governor of Kunar. Zubair Sediqi, a spokesman for Hezb-e-Islami, confirmed that Khan had joined the group, saying he had brought 15 guns and hightech equipment. The NATO-led coalition is grappling with a rise in “insider attacks” by Afghan soldiers who turn on their allies, undermining trust and efficiency. It has reported four lethal incidents over the past

month taking the total number this year to 10, according to a Reuters tally. Kunar, like other provinces along the border with Pakistan, is among the more insecure and volatile parts of Afghanistan. Local security forces have started a manhunt for the commander and tribal elders have promised to help. “We are trying our best to use elders’ influence in that area to bring back all equipment,” Jalala said. A record number of insider attacks - accounting for about one in every five coalition combat deaths - last

Iran warns over nuclear pressures

RAN’s parliament speaker warned yesterday that lawmakers could call for stepped-up atomic work if the West presses too hard for concessions in ongoing nuclear negotiations. The message from Ali Larijani - less than a week after talks resumed - appears aimed at both envoys from the West and Iran’s negotiation team, which is led by Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif. It also highlights the political jockeying inside Iran between backers of moderateleaning President Hassan Rouhani and hard-liners wary of his outreach to Washington. Larijani’s comments follow appeals by some members of the U.S. Congress to tighten sanctions on Iran despite the nuclear negotiations and historic diplomatic breakthroughs last month, includ-

ing President Barack Obama’s telephone call to Rouhani. Larijani, meanwhile, told Iran’s representatives that parliament would not permit world powers to impose “special measures” on the country beyond the obligations laid out by the U.N. treaty overseeing nuclear activity, such as U.N. monitoring and inspection. Iran’s ruling clerics approve all major policies and decisions, but parliament holds enough clout to potentially disrupt talks in response to Western demands to curb the program. Such resistance from Iran’s parliament could throw doubts on Rouhani’s ability to strike a deal with world powers in the same way that protests in Congress could stand in the way of potentially easing sanctions. On Sunday, Rouhani told a Cabinet meeting to be careful about foreign enemies’

plans for damaging unity in the country, the official IRNA news agency reported. Rouhani said Israel is trying to undermine the ongoing nuclear negotiations. “Zionists were resorting to sabotage and trouble-making inside or outside the country whenever Iran was achieving a success,” Rouhani was quoted as saying. Details from last week’s talks remain tightly guarded, but short-range priorities have been made clear. The U.S. and allies seek to roll back Iran’s highest-level uranium enrichment, which is several steps away from weapons grade. Iran wants the West to start withdrawing sanctions, which have hit Iran’s vital oil exports. The next round for talks is scheduled in Geneva for Nov. 7-8 between Iran and a six-nation group, the permanent U.N. Security Council

Tito’s widow, Jovanka Broz, dies aged 88

HE widow of the Communist leader of what was once Yugoslavia has died in Belgrade of a heart attack, aged 88. Jovanka Broz joined the partisans led by Josip Broz Tito who fought the Nazi occupation in World War Two. She became first Tito’s personal secretary, then his third wife in 1952. When Tito died in 1980, she was under house arrest for a time. She lived her last three decades in isolation

year prompted the coalition to briefly suspend all joint activities and take steps to curb interaction between foreign and Afghan troops. That has cut down the number of incidents, but some soldiers say the measures have further eroded the trust painstakingly nurtured between the allies over more than 12 years of war. All entrants to the Afghan National Security Force have to pass an eight step vetting process, which includes providing identification cards, letters of recommendation by village or district elders and undergoing tests.

She was left stateless by the collapse of Yugoslavia in the 1990s. “With Broz’s death, we are left without one of the last most reliable witnesses of our former country’s history,’’ Serbian Prime Minister Ivica Dacic said in a message of condolence. Jovanka Budisavljevic, an ethnic Serb, was born into a farming family in what is now Croatia on 7 December 1924. She joined the partisans when she was just 17, remain-

ing with them until the end of the war in 1945. After her marriage to Yugoslavia’s authoritarian president Josip Broz - known as Tito - she spent nearly three decades as first lady. But after he died, she was accused of plotting a coup. She lived in seclusion in the Belgrade suburb of Dedinje and rarely gave interviews. However, in 2009 she spoke to the Politika daily about the period after her husband’s death.

“They chased me out ... in my nightgown, without anything, not allowing me even to take a photo of the two of us, or a letter, a book,” she said. “I was in isolation and treated like a criminal... I could not leave the house without armed guards.” Mrs Broz had been admitted to hospital in August in a serious condition, suffering from heart problems. Her last wish was to be buried in the House of Flowers, in Belgrade, next to Tito.

members and Germany. The West and others fear that Iran could eventually produce a nuclear weapon. Iran insists it only seeks reactors for energy and medical use. The semiofficial Fars news agency quoted Larijani as saying that Iran’s nuclear program cannot be pushed beyond the requirements of the U.N.’s nuclear non-proliferation treaty, or NPT, which Iran has signed. “Iranian negotiators should be fully aware of this,” Larijani said. “If parliament feels another powerful party has a double-standard and unjustifiable attitudes, it will approve necessary measures on amount and diversity of nuclear activities.” Larijani did not elaborate, but said there is “no room for trust” yet with the U.S. Abbas Araghchi, Iran’s deputy foreign minister and one of its nuclear negotiators, also told a parliamentary committee that “Iran has not admitted any commitment” in the Geneva talks, the semiofficial ISNA news agency reported Sunday.

SUICIDE bomber slammed his explosive-laden car Sunday night into a busy cafe in Iraq’s capital, part of a day of violence across the country that killed 45 people, authorities said. The bombing at the cafe in Baghdad’s primarily Shiite Amil neighborhood happened as it was full of customers. The cafe and a nearby juice shop is a favorite hang out in the neighborhood for young people, who filled the area at the time of the explosions. The blast killed 35 people and wounded 45, Iraqi officials said. Violence has been on the rise in Iraq following a deadly crackdown by security forces on a Sunni protest camp in the northern town of Hawijah in April. At least 385 have died in attacks in Iraq so far this month, according to an Associated Press count. In a village north of Baghdad, a car bomb targeted a police officer’s house, killing his father, brother and five nephews, officials said. Six others were wounded in the blast, which happened when the officer was not at home. Security forces meanwhile foiled an attack on the local council of the western town of Rawah by five would-be suicide bombers disguised in police uniforms, said Muthana Ismail, head of the local security committee. Ismail said two attackers were shot while the rest blew up themselves up outside. Two police officers and an official were killed, while 20 people were wounded, he said. Rawha is about 330 kilometers (200 miles) northwest of Baghdad.

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OUR ERROR

In an advert on page 41 of Wednesday Publication, October 16 edition, Chief Ayakeme Whisky was inadvertently referred to as Bayelsa State Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development instead of Hon. Ball Oyarade. The mix-up is regretted.

THE NATION MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2013

FOREIGN DISCOURSE

The Westgate Mall attack: historicising nationalism, religion and violence Nigeria’s Super Eagles just battered Ethiopia to a 2-1 duel last week in a World Cup qualifier soccer game. A couple of al-shabab extremist elements tried to blow up the stadium where our men were playing but ended up blowing themselves up on the way to the venue. This coupled with the newly released CNN video of the dastardly act of this group and its vociferous and invective desire to continually unleash havoc on Kenya and other African nations supportive of Somalia is troubling. In this exclusive piece to The Nation newspaper, Professor TAIWO RUFUS AKINYELE, The Head Department of History And Strategic Studies, University of Lagos takes us along the path of this organisation’s macabre and incessant blood letting. Please follow.

HE attack on the Westgate Mall in Kenya on 21 September 2013 by AlShabaab was a dastardly act that has been condemned from all parts of the world. Far beyond the public outcry which the big bang effect has created, it is necessary to examine the “causes’ by probing into the offrricial explanation given by al-Shabaab for carrying out the attack. The explanation is that it was retaliation for Kenya’s invasion of Somalia in 2011. And since Kenyan forces are still in Somalia, the calculation might also have been that the attack of that magnitude would terrify Kenyans to mount pressure on their government to withdraw its forces from Somalia. This explanation, therefore, situates the motive for the attack in the domain of nationalism. Nationalism can be defined in various ways depending on the contexts. It is the consciousness of belonging to a nation that can take the form of a desire to create an independent country or to advance the interest of that particular country against all odds. The fact that alShabaab, the group that claimed responsibility for the Westgate Mall attack, is a militant Islamic group, indicates that religion could inspire nationalism or add some colour to it. Religion and nationalism are two powerful forces that exert considerable influence on world politics and history. This is largely because each of them has the capacity to mould the opinions of people and influence their actions. Where these two forces reinforce each other and are left untamed, one could expect the outbreak of violence. Nationalism and religion, like a coin, have two sides. The integrative and disintegrative sides. They can unite or tear apart. The two concepts have meaning only within the exclusive categorisation of “we” and “they”. The question then is, how can we explain the intersection between al-Shabaab nationalism, religion and violence as illustrated in the Westgate Mall attack? To get to the root of the Westgate Mall attack, we need to consider at least three issues. One, the reason for the frosty relationship between Somalia and Kenya that resulted in the invasion of Somalia by Kenya in 2011. Two, the internal factor that has promoted nationalism into a national creed or state ideology for mass mobilisation in Somalia. And three, the reason for the transformation of al-Shabaab from a domestic nationalist movement into an al-Qaeda affiliate with membership from the Middle East and Europe. To understand these issues we must go back to the history of the partition of the Horn of Africa, especially as it affects the Somali people. This is largely because many historical events are intrinsically related and a single action, whether carried out by a single person or a group of people, could be the outcome of series of actions. This is why historians often explain a single event in the context of other events. This process is called colligation.

Partition of the Horn of Africa: Root of Contemporary Crisis Somalia is located in the Horn of Africa. The country is bordered by Ethiopia to the West, Djibouti to the northwest and the Gulf of Aden to the north. The Indian ocean forms the eastern boundary while the country shares a common boundary with Kenya to the Southwest. About 85% of its 10 million populations are Somalia while the Bantu, Benadiris, Indians, Italians, Britons and others constitute the rest 15%. Although the Somali people are united by a common language, culture, as well as the religion of Is-

lam, they are divided into competing clans of which the Darood is the most politically powerful. Our misfortunes do not stem from the unproductiveness of the soil, nor from a lack of mineral wealth. These limitations on our material well-being were accepted and compensated for by our forefathers from whom we inherited, among other things, a spiritual and cultural prosperity of inestimable value: the teaching of Islam on the one hand and lyric poetry on the other… No, our misfortune is that our neighouring countries, with whom, like the rest of Africa, we seek to promote constructive and harmonious relations, are not our neighbours. Our neighbours are our Somali Kinsmen whose citizenship has been falsified by indiscriminate boundary arrangements. They occupy the same terrain and pursue the same pastoral economy as ourselves. We speak the same language. We share the same creed, the same culture and the same traditions. How can we regard our brothers as foreigners. Thus unlike the conventional process of nation building that is familiar to most Africans, the nationalism of the Somali, just like that of the Jews, is basically that of a people in search of a state. Article 16 of the original (1960) Constitution of Somalia, which was amended in 1979 states that Somali Democratic Republic will adopt peaceful and legal means to support the liberation of Somali territories under colonial occupation and encourage the unity of the Somali people through their own free will. The aggressive pursuit of the principle of selfdetermination has resulted into low intensity warfare between Somalia and Ethiopia and Somalia and Kenya. And, while the common Somali threat has brought Ethiopia and Kenya together, the Somali government had always received assistance from the Eritreans in Ethiopia and the people of Ogaden region who are struggling for their own liberation. Occasionally, the governments of Kenya and Ethiopia have had to turn the heat on the Somali people of their own country just to discourage them from activities that could lead to the breakup of the country, as evidenced in the Wagalla massacre of 1984 in Kenya. This was also the case in the Ogaden war of 1977-78, in which Somalia threw its weight behind the rebels and Ethiopia and Kenya demonstrated their resolve to eliminate Somali expansionism which they regarded as the root cause of tension and insecurity in the region. Their joint communiqué called on the international community to call on Somalia to “renounce publicly and unconditionally all claims to territories of Ethiopia, Kenya and Djibouti”. In retaliation, on 7th December 1980, the Somali Government stated that the Kenyan Government had been ensnared in an Ethiopian trap, and called on both countries to withdraw the communiqué which it interpreted as a declaration of war. One important point that should be noted from the on-going discussion is that it is Somali irredentism that has helped to create a deeper consciousness of nationalism in Somalia than what obtains in many African countries. But while the partition of the Horn of Africa broadly explains the perennial conflict between Kenya and Somalia, it does not explain the rise of al-Shabaab or its involvement in the dispute. The explanation of these must be sought in the failure of leadership and the attendant political crisis in Somalia.

The failed State and the Emergence of al-Shabaab The African continent is endowed with abundant mineral and natural resources that

ought to be harnessed to improve the welfare of its people. The unfortunate thing is that the continent has acquired notoriety as a laboratory for the study of government profligacy, fraticidal wars and human rights abuse, and of preventable diseases with serious demographic consequences. In particular, Somalia is widely acknowledged as a failed state and a good test case for the study of disaster projects. In spite of the homogeneity of its people in terms of language, culture and religion, the country has hardly known peace on account of the struggle for power among the Somali clans. The situation took a turn for the worse in 1991 when Mohammed Siad Barre was overthrown. The country degenerated into a civil war and different war lords tried to impose their rule in different parts of the country. In the absence of a central government, a few autonomous regions, including the Somaliland, Puntland and Galmudug appeared. It was in this era of “forced decentralization” and relapse to tribal rule that the group known as Islamic Courts union (ICU) emerged to lay claim to leadership position in Somalia. The ICU, as noted by Mukoma wa Ngugi in the Guardian African network of 4 October 2013, was a loose organisation that tried to administer the area under its control according to Islamic judicial systems. It was essentially a coalition of interests, embracing moderates and militants with links with al Qaeda. Although ICU tried to establish a modicum of central authority in Mogadishu, the capital, the internal power struggle in Somalia and the involvement of the African Union complicated the process. The attempt to put back the country on the right track resulted in the establishment of the Transitional National Government in 2000. This was redesignated as the Transitional National Federal Government (TFG) in 2004. The stage was, therefore, set for the battle for the control of Somalia between the ICU and TFG. In 2006, Ethiopia troops assisted the TFG to dislodge the ICU from the capital. The ICU subsequently splintered into many groups. Al Shabaab, which had served as the militant group of ICU began to rise in prominence as a result of its role in the resistance to the Ethiopia invasion. The group established a stronghold in the swampy Southern Somalia from where it conducted guerrilla campaigns against the invading Ethiopia army. The need to sustain the tempo of the attack made the al-Shabaab to look beyond the material assistance from Eritrea to soliciting help from al-Qaeda. It has been argued that it is the foreign Jihadists that introduced bombings and terrorism into the activities of alShabaab. In any case, in 2009, the Ethiopia solider were withdrawn and subsequently replaced by the African Union peace keeping force, Amisom, now confined to the area around Mogadibu. With the passage of time, the al-Shabaab stepped up its terrorism. For instance, in 2012, the group claimed responsibility for the suicide bombers’ attack at a rugby club and a restaurant in Kampala that resulted in the death of 76 people. By 2011, Kenya forces invaded the Southern part of Somali after blaming all Shabaab for raiding Southern Kenya. By 2012, Kenya forces had dislodged the alShabaab from the important port city of Kismayo. Although al-Shabaab had been blamed for throwing hand grenades into restaurants and other public places in Nairobi, the casualties from these and the occasional confrontation with the Kenyan troops close to the borders pale into insignificance compared with the Westgate Mall

•Prof. Akinyele

attack. It resulted in the death of at over sixty persons. And as already noted, the explanation of al-shabaab is that it was meant to avenge the invasion of Somalia by Kenya in 2011. At any rate, the international community, and African Union in particular, has thrown its weight behind the TFG which has been labouring to create a central federal government in Somalia since mid2012. The key question then is, is alShabaab a nationalist movement that is motivated by the singular aim of dislodging the foreign invaders from Somalia? Or, is al-Shabaab a self seeking political union attempting to exploit nationalism and religion to its own advantage in the struggle with the TFC for the control of Somalia? This is the third and final issue we shall consider in this essay. Politics, Nationalism and Religion: Every country has a right to defend its sovereignty and protect its borders from bandits. But it appears that Kenya has taken undue advantage of the al-Shabaab menace close to the Somali/Kenya border to transform itself into an army of occupation in Somalia. According to Mukumu wa Ngugi, the Kenyan troops were not invited by the Somali government or welcome by the African Union that has repeatedly called on Kenya to withdraw its troops from Somali. This has led him to speculate that Kenya is interested in the southern parts of Somalia or the Lower Juba because of its economic and strategic importance. It is the richest part of Somalia in agriculture, wild life, tourism and oil. A portion of it has been a subject of boundary dispute between Kenya and Somalia. More importantly, it has also been speculated that Kenya is trying to create a buffer zone between her and Somalia in order to protect the multibillion dollar road and railway projects that will link that country with Uganda, Ethiopia and South Sudan. That road project is barely 15 kilometers away from the common border. The picture painted above tends to validate the claim of al-Shabaab that it carried out the attack on the Westgate Mall in defence of Somalia’s sovereignty. The activities and the ideology of the group are, however, not compatible with the ideals of creating a strong and united Somali State. For instance, it has been observed that al-Shabaab flies the al-Qaeda flag instead of the Somali flag. The same group has been fighting with the Somali Transition Federal Government which has the backing of the international community to place Somalia on the road to federalism. Conclusion: The public outcry against the Westgate Mall attack is already being overshadowed by media report of natural and avoidable disasters such as the recent boat mishap in Lampedusa in Italy, the earthquake in the Philippines and al-Qaeda attacks in Afghanistan and Pakistan. While the Kenyan government is still pre-occupied with the investigation to fish out the attackers, the international community owes it a duty to humanity to address the larger issues connected with the attack. Only a comprehensive solution can help to restore peace to that region of Africa. To achieve the goal, the peacemakers have history at their service. •Prof. R. T. Akinyele Department of History and Strategic Studies University of Lagos

THE NATION MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2013

SPORT EXTRA NIGERIA PREMIER LEAGUE

Pillars champions again

ANO Pillars has retained the Nigeria league title despite losing 2-0 at Lobi Stars on the final day of the season. Pillars finished top of the table on 63 points, while Enyimba shot to second place after they defeated Sharks 1-0 at home to record 62 points. This is Pillars’ third league championship and they along with Enyimba, will represent Nigeria in next year’s CAF Champions League. They earned a prize money of 10 million Naira (about $63,000). Barnabas Imenger junior scored the first goal of the match in the 28th minute from the penalty spot after Umar Zango brought down Douglas Archi inside the 18-yard box. Imenger then scored his brace against the champions.

•3SC, Wikki, Kwara Utd, ABS relegated Pillars go into the record books as the first team from the Northern part of the country to win Nigerian league twice back to back. Mighty Jets in 1972, BCC Lions in 1994 and Lobi Stars in 1999 are the other teams from the Northern part of the country to win the league. Title chasers Bayelsa United and El Kanemi failed to win away from home and so slipped on the final day of action. Bayelsa lost 0-1 at Gombe United to finish third on 61 points, while El Kanemi finished on 60 points after they fell 0-1 at Enugu Rangers. Substitute Menshak Chukwubuikem scored the goal for Rangers to beat El Kanemi,

while Simon Timothy ended the dream of Bayelsa in Gombe with his strike. At the other end of the table, Wikki, Kwara United and ABS FC join Shooting Stars to the lower league. Akwa United and Kwara United played out a 1-draw in Lokoja, while ABS lost 1-0 at Warri Wolves. Shooting Stars confirmed their relegation after they lost 0-2 at Kaduna United. It was double tragedy for Kwara State football fans as both teams from the state, Kwara United and ABS FC, will campaign in the lower division next season following their relegation. Kwara United had a better

chance to stay put when they hosted Akwa United at Lokoja, but they could not get the needed three points as Akwa United, who needed just a point to remain in the top league, did just that as their game ended 1-1. 3SC finished bottom with 46 points from 38 games, followed by Wikki Tourists on 49 points, while ABS FC had 50 points, same with Kwara United.

ALL THE RESULTS Kwara Utd 1-1 Akwa Utd Gombe 1-0 Bayelsa Lobi 2-0 Pillars Nembe 2-0 Sunshine Nasarawa 1-0 Heartland Wolves 1-0 ABS Rangers 1-0 El Kanemi Kaduna 2-0 3SC Dolphins 1-0 Wikki Enyimba 1-0 Sharks

I’m not new to scoring four goals in a match —Iheanacho

N •Iheanacho

•Congratulates team for beating Mexico From Augustine Ehikioya, Abuja Dr. Reuben Abati, the President urged the team not to be carried away by the victory. Stressing that they have just overcome their first opponents in a long tournament, he

charged them to remain focused on winning their subsequent matches in order to get to the finals and win the championship once again. To this end, he called on them to avoid all possible distractions and continue to display the exhilarating soccer

skills, commitment and dedication which overwhelmed the Mexican team on Saturday. Jonathan assured the team and their handlers of the steadfast support and encouragement of the Federal Government as he looks forward to another victory when they take on Sweden Cadet team tomorrow.

First Bank donates N44m for facilities

IRST Bank of Nigeria Ltd. in its bid to strengthen sports development and enhance student health and wellbeing through physical recreational activities in secondary schools, has donated sporting facilities totalling N44 million to Queens and Kings Colleges Lagos. The Bank under its corporate responsibility and sustainability initiatives constructed a 450-seater sports pavilion at Queens College and renovated the Squash Court of Kings College as part of its continuous contribution

•Promotes Sports Development to complementing Government’s efforts by providing educational infrastructure support for Schools across Nigeria. FirstBank’s spokesperson, Mrs. Folake Ani-Mumuney, said the financial institution’s interventions in the area of sports development reinforce its commitment to boosting the process of developing the minds and abilities of the nation’s future leaders. “At First Bank, our ultimate goal is to remain a strong supporter of efforts

By Akeem Lawal justified his introduction by scoring the winner on the 90th minute to end his goal drought as they retain their leadership position on the Super Lig table. Fernerbahce are now toping the league table with 19 points from eight games, Kasimpasa is second with 15 points, while Besiktas is third with the same points but with lesser game of six.

•Emenike

Nigeria’s Abdulrahman through to semi final

particularly ``over the top with joy’’ when his first goal went in, making him to celebrate with a dance step inspired by popular wrestler ``American Dragon’’. While the Golden Eaglets are now favourites for a fourth title, the striker said the team must play its remaining matches with determination. “Sure, it’s a big win in our first game,’’ he said. ``We have to have courage now and determination to keep going, to go all the way''. Nigeria's next group game will be against Sweden on Tuesday, while their last group tie will be against Iraq three days later. Nigeria currently top their group with three points from one match, with Sweden who were 4-1 winners over Iraq on Saturday behind them in second place.

Don't lose focus, Jonathan advises Eaglets RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan yesterday congratulated the Golden Eaglets on their victory over their Mexican counterparts on Saturday in the on-going Under-17 World Championships in the United Arab Emirates. In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity,

I G E R I A N international striker, Emmanuel Emenike scored his first goal for Fenerbahce in the club’s 2-1 away win over Erciyesspor in the Turkish Super Lig played at Sükrü Saraçoglu Stadium on Sunday. The Super Eagles’ striker who had an impressive international week with the national team, scoring both goals in Nigeria’s 2-1 victory over Ethiopia in a FIFA World Cup qualifier first leg play-off in Addis Ababa last Sunday, continued in the same light for his club, securing a match winner for the Istanbul giants. Moussa Sow gave the visitors a surprise lead in the 9th minute before Randall Azofeifa scored the equaliSer for the home team, fifteen minutes later. However, with the match full points on mind, Fernerbahce coach, Ersun Yanal introduced Emenike in the 77th minute for Emre Belözoglu and the 26 year-old

CCSF INTERNATIONAL TAEKWONDO OPEN

•’Wrestler inspired goal celebration’ ELECHI Iheanacho, the scorer of four goals in Nigeria's 6-1 defeat of Mexico on Saturday in the UAE, says he is not new to scoring four goals in a match. Iheanacho’s goals were in the Golden Eaglets’ opening Group F match at Al Ain City in the 2013 FIFA U-17 World Cup. Iheanacho told fifa.com his feat was not the first time he was scoring four goals in a match. He, however, said the goals he scored in Saturday's match marked the first time he would score that number of goals in an international match. ``I’ve scored four goals in a game many times, but only in the streets with my friends. But it has never been in an international match, never for my country. The feeling is amazing''. Iheanacho said he was

Emenike scores first goal for Fernerbahce

geared towards equipping the youths with the skills required for socio-economic empowerment through support of sports development, youth engagement initiatives, endowment schemes and infrastructure development. Our desire is to see these strategic and need-driven youth empowerment interventions culminate in equipping our Nigerian youths for a bright future,” she said. At the commissioning and handover ceremony of the

squash court at Kings College, The Principal, Otunba Oladele Olapeju commended and appreciated First Bank for its support, stating that, “the squash court will help its students develop their skills in the game and build a veritable foundation for grooming future world champions.” Olapeju urged all stakeholders to help provide support for secondary school sports competitions that will facilitate the discovery of talents that would win laurels for the country in international events.

IGERIA'S Abdul Abdulrahman yesterday defeated African Champion, Mali's Ismael Coulibaly in the quarterfinal of the men's -80kg in the second at the Chika Chukwumerije Sports Foundation (CCSF) International Taekwondo Open holding in Abuja. From the first round, the Nigerian led the Malian and this thrilled the fans at the Ladi Kwali Hall of Sheraton Hotel, venue of the championship. To end the dream of the Malian, Abdulrahman won the threeround encounter at 9-6 to berth in the last four of the championship. An elated Abdulrahman said he was happy winning the bout but was ready to crush every opponent he faces on his way to final. "I am not scared of any opponent even though I knew he was the African champion but for me I just do my best to come

out victorious. I give him respect because it is not easy to become African champion but for me title does not win fights. I look forward to battle anyone enroute the final," he said. Also, yesterday Zamfara's Ahmed picked gold in the men's -58kg after beating Nigerian Immigration's Ilya Usman. Chiamaka Onumonu beat Esther Uzoukwu in the women's -67kg while NSCDC's Chinazum Nwosu beat Imo's Chinyere Nwazie in the -57kg. More than 300 athletes took part in the N2.8m prize money tournament with West African countries like Mali, Gabon, Cote d'Ivoire, Ghana, Togo among others participating. The two-day championship was attended by 24 states across Nigeria as well as the Nigerian Police, Army and Navy competing. Eight events were competed for in the male and female categories.

Pillars’ coach, Akwa Utd celebrate

ANO Pillars coach M o h a m m e d Babaganaru has said he is delighted to retain the Nigeria league crown, while Akwa United hailed their survival. Babaganaru told MTNFootball.com it was not an easy task to lead Pillars to a third league crown, but for the collective effort of all that were involved in the team they were able to reach the target. "I am very happy and thrilled with this achievement. I thank Almighty Allah for making this possible for us. It was not easy, but we all worked hard towards achieving our set target and we did it," Babaganaru told MTNFootball.com. "We set this target from the beginning of the season, we kept on working towards it and the Almighty crowned our efforts. It is a thing of joy for me and the entire team." Meanwhile, the players of

Akwa United also celebrated after they survived relegation on the final day of the season on Sunday. Akwa United went to Lokoja to battle Kwara United and drew 1-1 to stay up in the top flight. A cross section of Akwa United told MTNFootball.com it was almost an impossible mission. Akwa United top striker Mfom Udoh said: "I am short of words, God has done it for us, it is not our power but God, He showed the world how great he is through us. We are celebrating now." Emmanuel Enize told MTNFootball.com God showed the team they belong to him. "God really showed us he is our God. I feel very happy for this achievement because it was almost an impossible mission that was made possible by God and hard work. Everyone had lost hope on us but we did it, I am grateful to God," he said.

TODAY IN THE NATION

MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2013 TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM

VOL 8 NO 2,641

‘The challenge is how to resolve the myriads of these destabilising tendencies taking copious inputs from the people without compromising the powers of the National Assembly on constitutional amendment.’

C OMMENT & D EB ATE EBA

HE idea of an ambush is military. It connotes surprise, and the executor of the ambush assumes the position of the superior, being the aggressor. President Goodluck Jonathan played the ambush man when he propounded the idea of a national conference. He seemed to have ambushed everybody. He set up a committee, sprinkled it with some progressives while also ladling it with his advocates and marionettes. President Jonathan had turned his aboutface into virtue. He who pooh-poohed the concept as subversive and unnecessary turned into the spearhead. The imitator had become the originator. He was not the author of the story, but he had become the narrator, the protagonist and the omniscient raconteur. He understood the power of surprise in a story, especially the modern novel. He acted as if he read Ian Watt, who theorised on the novel as a genre premised on surprise as weapon. He imposed surprise on the narrative and it caught everyone, especially the progressives, with their pants at the knee. Other than that, he seemed to have read Harold Bloom, the author of the concept known as the anxiety of influence. That concept says the imitator so well emulates the original that the originator appears as the imitator. It is the ultimate fraud of identity. While it lasted, Jonathan was having the time of his opponents’ lives. So, in starting off his national conference, the president wore two hats, one of a literary genius and the other of a military strategist. He was at once a Napoleon and a Dickens. He thought so for a few days and his men basked in the new intellectual and political glory. Even many progressives, who had thought that the Nigerian moment had come to talk itself out of its age-old illusions, found themselves pitching their tents with the helmsman of Aso Rock. He turned out to be wearing false hats, an impostor in political fashion. The matter turned awry when he said the conference would report to the National Assembly. Suddenly, it became clear to many that the president alone understood what he meant by a national conference. The progressives abided the illusion of a sovereign conference. They thought that once the process began they would take the initiative from the president and his PDP viceroys, and Jonathan would lose control. They probably had history in mind, like the French Revolution when a mere meeting of the legislature turned into a conflagration of mass protests that torpedoed the system. Some groups had started unveiling their terms, and others started gearing to write their memorandums and positions. This was another ambush. They thought Jonathan, whom they often wrongly

SAM OMATSEYE

IN TOUCH

intouchsam@yahoo.com 08054501081(sms only) •NMMA Columnist of the Year

The Jonathan ambush ‘Jonathan did not know that the victim of the ambush would be none other than Jonathan himself. By saying that the conference would report to the National Assembly, he committed a grave error’ •Jonathan call clueless, would fall piteously into their traps. How wrong! Jonathan did not know that the victim of the ambush would be none other than Jonathan himself. By saying that the conference would report to the National Assembly, he committed a grave error. He assumed that those who had supported him would just tag along like a sheep. He did not know that many would suddenly realise that he did not know that he could not fool us. You can fool some of the people some of the time, crooned Abraham Lincoln, but you cannot fool all the people all the time. Some who supported him retraced their steps and started telling him, “sorry, no cigar.” That is the story. What those who understand the concept of the national conference want its decision to be binding on everyone and every institution, including the National

RIPPLES

NIGERIA : A WORK IN PROGRESS-Fed Govt

53 YEARS...and still in progress

Assembly and the president. When such a parley begins, the people take charge of the nation. That is why it is a national conference. The progressives have often called it sovereign because they feel that every topic will be on the table, including the very survival of Nigeria as a nation. In fact, that would be the very first topic because on it hinges every other deliberation. The Jonathan administration set a trap by saying everything is on the table. How false. If everything is on the table, it will not be subjected to the wisdom of the National Assembly. If the national Assembly would have to ratify the proceedings, then the legislature would assume that it (the National Assembly) is not a topic for deliberation. But the conference would have decided also how the legislature would work, how its members are elected, how the constituencies are delimited, what powers they should wield, their terms of office, and their sources of funding. If such a matter gets to the assembly, the report would be subjected to a com-

HARDBALL

RISIS, crisis everywhere, not a sector is spared. They have become so pervasive that even an aspect of our life that is as innocuous as our major staple food, rice has been afflicted. Have you ever stopped to ponder what would become of Nigeria without rice? Do you know that rice is eaten daily in nearly every home in every corner of Nigeria? Do you know that rice is almost as crucial to the Nigerian household today as petrol and like petrol, it is something that we have the capacity to produce in abundance and export to other countries but instead, we import it? To extend the comparison with petrol further, in the 70s to mid-80s, Nigeria was producing enough petrol for her use. It was the same with rice; Nigeria’s production actually peaked at about one million tons per annum when there was a ban on importation. This was up from about 450,000 tons of local production in the 70s. But with oil boom, by the mid 80s local production dwindled giving was to massive importation. Then, Nigeria had large rice belts sprawling from Sokoto, Benue, Abakaliki and Ogun axis. It was a major industry that comprised production, milling and distribution; providing food, jobs, livelihood and wealth to millions in the rice zones. It was an industry that over time, created well-knit enterprising communities, organic, prideful in

Nigeria’s rice crisis

their self-sufficiency and tradition of productivity. Now why is Hardball lapsing into a reverie of a long-lost utopia, you might be wondering? What is the point of all this if we all are well aware that in the past three decades or so, Nigeria’s rice economy has become almost a tragic situation with a quantum of importation that is not surpassed by any other country today. In fact our importation ramifies nearly all major staple foods like maize, beans and even palm oil. But rice is the one that has reached crisis level now. First, the federal government at the beginning of this year, arbitrarily jerked up duty and tariff on rice importation bringing them to a total of 110 percent in Nigeria while in neighbouring countries like Benin Republic and Togo, import duties on rice remain at about 30 percent. Why would any sane businessman ship through our ports if there is a slight chance that he can smuggle it through the borders. The profit is so tempting that those who are ordinarily law-abiding would think twice or risk extinction. Here lies the rice crisis: about 80 percent of rice consumed

EMEKA OMEIHE

mittee. That committee of a few men would now impose its ideas and distortions on the submissions of persons elected all over the country. Again, they could be at the receiving end of lobbyists from different political, ethnic groups as well as business moguls. At the end of it, the result will be a shadow of what the people’s representatives decided. It would look like the story of the Christian Reformation in Europe. The Reformation was mocked by historians who noted that Erasmus laid the egg but Martin Luther hatched it. But Erasmus said the colour of the bird was different from what he intended. Yet, once the National Assembly completes the job, the president must give his assent. The president and the lawmakers will become judges in their own causes. The presidency will also be a subject of the conference’s work. What if they curtail the president’s powers, what if they say the states will have more money than the centre and the police will no longer be at the beck and call of the centre? Ideally, once the conference begins sitting, all institutions, including the presidency must cede authority to the leadership of the conference. The president and governors become a little better than ciphers. That is how fundamental such a conference is. So, President Jonathan exposed the philosophical vacuity of his conference. So what it means is that he does not really intend this to be a groundbreaking affair, but just a conference to keep us silent and divert attention. Yet on the flipside, one cannot assume that convoking a conference will be easy. We cannot assume that voting the people into the conference may not be rigged or controversial. One cannot assume that the deliberations would not hit deadlocks or whether even after the conference has finished its work, the referendum would not be swindled out of the people with a fraudulent vote counting. These will be challenges. But we need to give it a try, and see if the people will insist on their own sovereignty and reclaim their mandate if the referendum is rigged. The great Yale scholar and philosopher, Robert Hutchins said, “the death of democracy is not likely to be an assassination from ambush. It will be a slow extinction from apathy, indifference, and undernourishment.” If soveriengn conference fails, then we can say the people ambushed themselves. But that will be a terminal ambush. We shall have assured ourselves that we have decided to rig ourselves as a people out of a future of progress. That is better than a rigmarole and cosmetic dance that Jonathan has placed on the Nigerian stage.

•Hardball is not the opinion of the columnist featured above in Nigeria today is smuggled into the country by a cabal. The negative imports of government’s thoughtlessness are numerous and far-reaching. First, Nigeria loses revenues in hundreds of million dollars to her neighbours. Two, genuine importers are put out of business and some may be forced into the illegality of smuggling. Three the Customs is put under immense pressure; compromised and overwhelmed. Four, the backward integration investments of genuine importers in local rice production and processing plants will go to waste in another year if this frenzy of smuggling is not checked immediately. The reason is that the price of a bag of the local rice is twice the price of the imported one. The modest efforts being made by some stakeholders to grow rice at home will soon be rubbished. Federal government had increased the levy paid on imported rice ostensibly to curb importations with a view to outright ban in a few years. But no effort is being made to encourage or develop local production. The rice development fund is not being deployed anywhere. All these going on and government seems so inured to it all. This will never happen in any other country; orchestrated crises like this in every sector of our national life cannot be any way to run a country.

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