The Nation October 26, 2012

Nigeria’s widest circulating newspaper

‘PDP, senator behind Boko Haram’ NEWS Page 2

•Ex-Governor Sheriff opens up

Jonathan, Mark, Tinubu urge peace

NEWS

Page 2

•Leaders preach tolerance at Sallah

www.thenationonlineng.net

VOL. 7, NO. 2290 FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

TR UTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM TRUTH

N150.00

Governor, five others injured in plane crash Pilot Suntai may be flown abroad for treatment Yusuf Alli, Abuja, Barnabas Manyam, Yola, Fanen Ihyongo, Jalingo and Kelvin Osa- Okunbor

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N aircraft flown by Taraba State Governor Danbaba Fulani Suntai yesterday crashed near the Yola airport.

Apart from the governor, five other people including the crew, were onboard at the time of the incident. All of them were injured and taken to the hospital, first in Yola,the Adamawa State capital, before being flown to Abuja.

Suntai is expected to be flown overseas for treatment today. He is said to have injured his arm.

As the Cessna 208 aircraft was approaching for landing, it contacted the Control Tower but was suddenly lost on the radar, The Nation learnt.

The plane crashed near the NNPC depot by Ngurore - four kilometres to the airport.

A statement last night by Joe Obi, Special Assistant (Media) to Minister of Aviation Stella Oduah said: ”An aircraft, Cessna 208 with six souls on board, including the crew, operated by the Taraba State Government, departed Jalingo, Taraba State, for Yola this evening (yesterday evening) and reported contact with the Yola Control Tower (1720Z) and field in sight at 38 miles estimating landing at 1730Z. “The pilot subsequently lost contact with Yola Control Tower and subsequent effort to raise the aircraft failed.

“Search & Rescue was immediately activated and site of incident located with all victims alive with various degrees of injuries.

“The victims have been evacuated to the hospital for treatment pending further investigation of the incident.”

A source said last night: “The governor was evacuated alongside the others and they were taken to the Nigerian- German Hospital in Yola for initial treatment.

Continued on page 2

•FOR THE LOVE OF FLYING: Suntai being ‘baptised’ after his graduation as a pilot at the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology, Zaria, Kaduna State in 2010.

•Pilgrims praying in Saudi Arabia...yesterday

PHOTO: AFP

•AGRIC P13 •SPORT P23 •SOCIETY P25 •BRAND P29 •POLITICS P43

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THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

NEWS

F

‘PDP, Senator behind Boko Haram’

ORMER Borno State Governor Ali Modu Sheriff yesterday alleged that the state’s Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chapter “is the engine room of Boko Haram”.

He also alleged that Senator Ahmed Khalifa Zanna, who is undergoing interrogation after a suspected Boko Haram Commander was arrested, allegedly in his house, engaged in terrorism.

Sheriff, who was also a Senator, has been exchanging accusations with Zanna over the arrest of suspected Boko Haram Commander Shuaib Bama.

Sheriff denied being an accomplice of terrorism urged the State Security Service (SSS) to intensify its interrogation of Zanna.

Borno State, along with neighbouring Yobe, is the hot-

From Yusuf Alli, Abuja

bed of the Boko Haram insurgency.

Sheriff spoke in a statement by his Special Assistant, Umar Duhu.

He said: “It is common knowledge in Borno State that Senator Zanna takes along some hapless Nigerians on a seeming religious voyage by road only to put some of them into terrorist activity and illegal arms importation.

“Some of the so-called pilgrims by road have been traced to terrorists’ camps in Afghanistan and Syria, and not Saudi Arabia, their preferred destination. It is very much on record that 27 of such pilgrims are still missing till date.

“Senator Zanna’s inconsistencies in trying to defend himself are clear indication of a sinking man’s desperate attempt to

About Cessna 208 aircraft

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•President Goodluck Jonathan celebrating with the First Lady...yesterday. Dame Patience marked PHOTO: NAN her 55th birthday at the State House in Abuja. Story on Page 58

Governor, five others injured in plane crash Continued from page 1

“The hospital was cordoned off by soldiers until about 8.45pm when the governor was flown to Abuja in an Air Force jet.

“He was not in good shape but he is not dead. I think he should be in the National Hospital, preparatory to a medical treatment abroad depending on the degree of injury he sustained.”

It was not immediately clear last night whether the governor flew the plane but, it

was late confirmed that he did.

Suntai, a pharmacist, holds a Private Pilot’s Licence (PPL) which he obtained in 2010, after attending the Nigeria College of Aviation Technology (NCAT) in Zaria, Kaduna State.

To obtain his licence in 2010, he successfully flew the Caravan Cessena plane. He is known to embark on solo flights in his leisure.

Suntai was elected governor in 2007 and reelected in 2011.

He was born on June 30 1961 at Suntai Town in Bali Local Government Area of the state.

He attended Federal Government College, Kano (1975– 1980) and the School of Basic Studies at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria (1980–1981). He graduated with a degree in Pharmacy from the Ahmadu Bello University in 1984.

Suntai did his internship at Yola Specialist Hospital and his National Youth Service at the State Hospital, Ijaiye, Continued on page 61

ITH sales exceeding the 1000 mark the useful Caravan is a popular utility workhorse worldwide.

Design work for the Caravan dates back to the early eighties. First flight of a prototype occurred on December 9 1982 and certification was granted in October 1984.

When production began the following year, it became the first all new single engine turboprop powered aircraft to achieve production status.

The Caravan I has had a close association with US package freight specialist Federal Express (FedEx), on whose request Cessna especially developed two pure freight versions. The first of these was the 208A Cargomaster (40 delivered), the second was the stretched 208B Super Cargomaster (260 delivered). The first Super Cargomaster flew in 1986 and features a 1.22m (4ft) stretch and greater payload capacity, including an under fuselage cargo pannier. FedEx’s aircraft lack cabin windows.

The 208B Grand Caravan first flew in 1990 and like the

Super Cargomaster is a stretched version of the basic Caravan powered by a 505kW (675shp) PT6A-114. It can seat up to 14 passengers.

Announced at the 1997 NBAA convention, the 208675 has replaced the basic 208.

It combines the standard length airframe of the 208 with the more powerful PT6A-114 of the 208B. Underbelly cargo pods, floats and skis are offered as options on the Caravan I family, and the type is easily converted from freight to passenger configurations.

A military/special missions version of the 208A, dubbed the U-27A, is also on offer.

The Brazilian Air Force designation is C-98.

Soloy is offering a dual-engine conversion of the 208B, named Pathfinder 21. This version is powered by a 991kW (1329shp) Pratt & Whitney Canada/Soloy Dual Pac powerplant, consisting of two PT6D-114A engines driving a single propeller. Other distinguishing features of the Pathfinder 21 include a 72in cabin stretch behind the wing and a large integral cargo pod.

hang himself on anything available in order to save his neck. If not so, what would his nephew be doing in the socalled house of Senator Ali Sheriff, the man he said is his political rival?

“Contrary to his claims in the media that he had parted ways with the suspect, we can authoritatively confirm that his nephew, Shuaibu, was still his associate up to the time of his arrest.

“It is an act in futility for him to try to name Ali Sheriff as an accomplice in his nefarious activity with Boko Haram, knowing full well that the wild allegations being levelled by him will never amount to an acquittal of his guilt.”

Sheriff raised some posers for Zanna, which he also asked security agencies to look into.

He added: “The one million dollar question is why has Senator Zanna never spoken against the atrocities being committed by Boko Haram; rather, he has been calling for the declaration of state of emergency or the disbandment of the Joint Task Force (JTF) which he knew are antithetical to the quest for peace.

“Again, being the second senator fingered as having links with Boko Haram, it is a confirmation of the wildly believed theory that the PDP in Borno State is the engine room behind Boko Haram.

“At his age and with the position he holds as a senator of the Federal Republic, we felt it is the height of un-patriotisms and irresponsibility for Senator Ahmed Zanna to not only fuel the crisis in Borno, but to attempt to drag the names of decent citizens, like Ali Sheriff, in the mud.

“We know that since his inauguration, Senator Ahmed Zanna, who has visited neither Borno nor his constituency, even for once can afford to play politics with the serious issue at stake by sponsoring terrorism against his own people.

“On this note, we want to call on the relevant security authorities to fully investigate the Continued on page 61

Jonathan, Mark, Tambuwal urge peace, tolerance at Sallah

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HE need for peace ran through the messages from leaders yesterday as Nigerian Muslims join their counterparts worldwide to mark the Eid-el-Kabir.

Senate President David Mark, House of Representatives Speaker Aminu Tambuwal, Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu and Deputy House Speaker Emeka Ihedioha, in separate statements, spoke on the need for Nigerians to live in harmony.

Besides calling for peace President Goodluck Jonathan urged the people “to live up to the highest ideals of religious beliefs, including the fear of God, selfless service, respect for laws and constituted authorities, honesty, justice, equity, fairness, dutifulness and harmonious co-existence with others”.

Dr. Jonathan also ordered a thorough post mortem of some Nigerian women pilgrims deported from Mecca over male companions.

He said the essence of the probe is to ensure that Hajj airlift operations are never disrupted by such problems in future and Nigerian pilgrims not subjected to such traumatic experience again.

The president extended warm greetings to Nigerians

Tinubu seeks tolerance, responsible leadership

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CTION Congress of Nigeria National Leader Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu yesterday called for religious tolerance and responsible leadership.

He said though Eid-el-Kabir is a Muslim festival, Nigerians of all faith and creed should regard themselves as partakers, in the best tradition of religious tolerance and harmony.

“I salute Nigerian Muslims on yet another glorious celebration of Eid-el-Kabir, with its symbol of community love and feasting in the sharing of the sallah ram,” he said. “But I believe every Nigerian that subscribes to faiths and creeds that stress brotherly love is a partaker.”

Tinubu said Nigerians, particularly Muslims and Christians, must emphasise the similarities, rather than differences, of the two faiths; and understand that and Muslims in particular, on the occasion of Eid-el-Kabir festival.

He congratulated all Nigerians who successfully undertook the Hajj.

The President noted that the country would make faster progress toward the attainment of developmental objectives, with the co-operation of the citizens.

He said his administration would continue to give dedicated, committed, focused and

Muslims and Christians are kith and kins; and not enemies.

“This festival celebrates the complete faith in Almighty God by Ibrahim (Abraham in Christianity), when God asked him to sacrifice his only son, Ishaq (Isaac in Christianity). The reward of this unquestionable faith in God is what we celebrate today in Eid-el-Kabir,” Tinubu explained. “We should celebrate that the two great religions come from the same source; and use that commonness to unite and build our country.”

Tinubu urged governments at all levels to locate poverty as the trigger of many crises that often assume the colouration of religion, and work hard to solve the poverty problem.

“Mass poverty, not differing faiths, is the greatest challenge to national unity and peace. So, if we solve the poverty problem, we will automatically take care of the

purposeful leadership toward overcoming old and emerging challenges before the nation.

The president said Nigerians should use the Sallah celebration to remember flooding victims.

“I have already announced a relief package of close to N18 billion and constituted a national committee to raise more funds to help victims of the floods.

“In the true spirit of our major religions which enjoin us to

most pressing of crises” he reasoned. “So, let every tier of government dedicate itself anew to offering accountable leadership that focuses on conquering poverty, deepening development and prosperity and giving our people the good life.”

He appealed to those perpetuating violence under the guise of religion to seek the face of God and halt the mass slaughter of innocent souls.

“We must reclaim our country from mass and senseless violence. We must stress the unity of our people under one God. We must insist on justice and equity. If we do all these,” he added, “our national narrative would change for the better: for we would have attained peace based on justice and equity, which will propel our nation to its manifest destiny as a proud, respected and prosperous member of the comity of nations.

be generous to the needy, I urge all Nigerians who can do so to donate munificently to the national relief fund for affected persons and communities.

“We will monitor the disbursement and utilisation of the funds released by the Federal Government and those raised by the National Committee very closely to ensure that they are judiciously and expeditiously expended for the benefit of the flood victims,’’ he said.

Mark called on the Muslim faithful to use the occasion of the Eid-el-Kabir to pray for peace and stability in Nigeria.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Paul Mumeh, in Abuja, Mark implored religious leaders to teach their followers the right thing to do so that they would not depart from the truth.

He noted that Nigeria was passing through trying times, especially security challenges,

•Mark

a development, he said, required that all men and women of goodwill rise up to tackle the menace.

The senate president said insecurity should not be perceived from the prism of religion but a crime against huContinued on page 61

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THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

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THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

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NEWS

Flood Lokoja, the Kogi State capital, is one of the worst-hit by the flooding in the country. Its victims relive their experience to Lizzy Agbaji, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) • Abia State Governor Theodore Orji (middle) flanked by his wife Odochi displaying the Champion leadership award at the Nike Lake Hotel Enugu…yesterday. With them is the National Publicity Secretary ofthe Peoples Democratic Party ( PDP), Chief Olisa Metu

•General Manager, Consumer Marketing, MTN Nigeria, Mr. Kola Oyeyemi (left), Brand Manager, Porsche Nigeria, Michael Wagner and Executive Secretary, MTN Foundation, Ms. Nonny Ugboma at the opening of the MTN Lagos Fashion and Design Week 2012 in Lagos...on Wednesday

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HE flood was never expected, although they say there was a flood disaster in Lokoja more than 43 years ago, I’m sure its impact could not have had a similar magnitude,’’ Mr Sunday Akubo, a resident of Lokoja, moaned, as he was being ferried in the flood-ravaged city to an upland for safety.

Having been informed of death and sufferings of some people at the various camps set up for Internally Displaced Persons, Akubo, whose home was totally submerged by floodwaters, decided to flee the town with his kindred.

“It was when I saw some landmarks from the canoe that I knew that we were sailing on the densely populated Adoja Long Drive in Lokoja, which is now totally submerged.

“You can then imagine what could have happened to the residents of the neighbourhood,’’ he added.

Sharing similar sentiments, Mrs. Esther Paul, another victim, said: “It is a harrowing experience which could provoke a heart attack.

Imagine this scenario: you wake up in the morning and you do not have a place to call your home anymore.’’

Paul, who now resides in a camp, conceded that things had been quite tough for her family.

“Whenever I look at my children, I usually burst into tears because it has not been easy for all of us in the camp. I particularly pity nursing mothers.

“This place is like a refugee camp; it has not been easy living here with

our children,’’ she added.

Unable to control her emotions, Paul recounted how her family lost all their belongings to the flood.

Mr Atodo Wisom, a 27-year-old drycleaner, said the flooding had rendered him homeless, while affecting his means of livelihood.

“I have no place to call my home, as my house is now underwater. My business has also ground to a halt,’’ he said.

Commenting on the flooding, Mr Emmanuel Bola Boro, a Director of Kogi State Agency for the Control of AIDS and a resident of the Adankolo Housing Estate in Lokoja, said that the flooding had traumatised many residents of Lokoja.

“It started like a child’s play when we saw River Niger gradually overflowing its bank; although the flood was not violent, it kept on increasing day by day.

“I was not affected but some of my neighbours who were affected never thought it was going to be as disastrous as this because it all started gently.

“Some people would wake up in the morning and meet the water at their doorsteps, gradually overtaking their homes. Others would wake up on their beds and step into a pool of water,’’ Boro said.

Habiba Umar, a journalist with the Kogi State Broadcasting Corporation who also lives in Adankolo Housing Estate, said some hoodlums had taken undue advantage of the flooding to commit crimes and loot affected houses.

“In recent times, people have been living in fear, as criminals have taken the advantage of the situation to loot

The problem with ECOWAS Court •Secretary to the Lagos State Government Mrs Oluranti Adesola, Dr. Christopher Kolade and Prof Pat Utomi (right) at the Vitafoam 5oth Anniversary Lecture in Lagos ...yesterday

•General Overseer, Victorious Army Ministries International, Rev. Joseph Agboli (right), his wife Blessing and American Preacher Dr. Mike Murdock during Murdock’s arrival for the church’s convention in Lagos... yesterday

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Y most accounts, the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice has played some vital roles in implementing the community laws, while serving as a veritable instrument for West Africa's integration.

The set of ECOWAS Community Laws includes the treaty, conventions and protocols, regulations, directives and other subsidiary legal instruments adopted within the framework of the ECOWAS Community.

Observers note that since its inception in 1999, the court has been able to live up to its mandate by ensuring compliance with the laws, particularly those relating to the protection of human rights in member states.

Besides, the ECOWAS Court of Justice Annual Report of 2009 to 2011 acknowledges that the court steadily ``increases in its credibility and confidence, while consolidating its role as the principal legal organ of the community."

It says this is typified in the

By Temitope Ponle, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

volume of judicial activities, which includes the number of cases filed, court sessions held and judgments delivered.

According to the report, 2009 marked a turning-point in the service delivery of the ECOWAS Court of Justice, as the court was then able to record a remarkable increase in its judicial activities, including the number of decisions made and hearings held.

It says the feat sprawled to 2010, as the court was able to record 85 hearings and deliver 15 judgments, including seven final judgments and eight rulings. ``Since its first hearing in 2004, never has the court held so many hearings and made so many decisions,'' the report states.

As the court resumed for its 2012/ 2013 Legal Year in September, observers express the hope that the court would be able to record more achievements in the year.

THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

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NEWS

victims’ tales of woe

•Flooded farmland in Warawa

•Wada

houses in our estate, as many residents have left the estate out of fear.

“At the time the government built this estate, they outlawed the building of houses in certain areas designated as green areas and waterways but to our dismay, some people began building on such places.

“Unfortunately, people who built houses on waterways were the worst hit by the flood with several of their houses submerged,’’ she said.

Many people, who live by the riverside in Kogi, admit that the flood took most of them by surprise.

There have been numerous tales of woes about the floods that recently ravaged several parts of the country.

The victims’ accounts have been

bizarre as well as disturbing and the situation compelled President Goodluck Jonathan to tour some of the affected areas.

“Nigeria is highly devastated by the flood,’’ the president exclaimed.

“Sometimes when you watch on television, you do not appreciate what we are going through. I travelled from North to South to see things for myself and on Sunday, I was in my village after touring my state.

“I left my village on Sunday morning and as at that time; water was about entering my compound.

As at this morning, information reaching me is that my house, up to the windows, is underwater.

“So, you can see what people are

passing through within this period.

But with the assistance of our development partners and people who are in the humanitarian sector, we will soon get over it,’’ Jonathan said after inspecting some flooded areas of Lokoja.

Observers, nonetheless, note that even though flood is a natural phenomenon; its impact could be mitigated if people abide by warnings of weather experts and town planning regulations on building plans and projects.

Citing a report of the UN Development Programme (UNDP), some weather experts claim that heavy rainfall this year as well as the release of water from Lagdo Dam and Lake Nyos in Cameroon

heightened the flood incidents in Nigeria.

The experts, however, insist that the Kogi flooding could have been less destructive if the people had paid adequate attention to earlier reports and predictions of flooding in Benue, Anambra, Adamawa, Edo, Kwara and Cross River, among others.

All the same, Mr Steven Mayaki, Kogi’s Commissioner for Land, Housing and Urban Development, stressed that the state government had always adopted anti-flood precautionary measures.

For instance, no layout along the waterways was earmarked for property development in Kogi, he said

During the resumption ceremony, the court's Chief Registrar, Mr Tony Anene-Maidoh, who said that 16 new cases had been filed before the court; however, called on ECOWAS member states to strive to implement the court decisions.

He said this year alone, the court held 73 sessions, delivered 11 judgments and 14 rulings, while 43 cases were still pending before it with 10 other cases awaiting judgment.

In a nutshell, the court has held 376 sessions since its inaugural session on Jan. 22, 2004, Anene-Maidoh noted. ``Since inception of this court, 130 cases have been lodged and some of these cases were consolidated. ``The court has delivered 108 decisions, including 52 judgments and 56 rulings; 10 cases are awaiting judgment, while 38 cases are awaiting trial,'' he said.

Anene-Maidoh stressed that the increase in the diversity of cases before the court somewhat necessitated the establishment of a vibrant culture of respect for human rights and good governance in ECOWAS member states.

However, perceptive observers attribute the court's feats to the adoption of the Supplementary Protocol of the ECOWAS Court in January 2005 by the Authority of Heads of States and Government.

They note that the supplementary protocol, which amended the 1991 Protocol of the court, permits individuals and corporate bodies to have direct access to the court.

They also observe that the protocol bestows on member states the responsibility of enforcing the court's decisions.

The court's achievements notwithstanding, the court's leadership has expressed concern over the non-enforcement of the court's decisions by member states.

It underscores the need for member states to play crucial roles in the development of ECOWAS Community Laws.

Justice Awa Nana-Daboya, the President of ECOWAS Community Court of Justice, said that even if the court's decisions had been enforced by member states, no reports had been made to that effect.

She also said the court received no feedback from the beneficiaries of its decisions. ``This air of uncertainty surrounding the decisions of the court is one of the challenges confronting the efficacy of the institution. ``Such attitudes are synonymous with opposition or non-observance of obligations. When will time come for an end to default on obligations so as to bring an end to political illwill?'' she asked.

Nana-Daboya particularly called on member states to adhere strictly to the provisions of the ECOWAS Community Laws.

The chief registrar said that the level of enforcement of the court decisions by member states was low.

``In terms of statistics as to the level of enforcement, it is difficult to give you the exact figure for obvious reasons. However, many of the decisions of the court ended on preliminary objections. ``But in respect of cases where member states are directly involved and an order is made against a member state to comply with a particular decision and it fails to do that; this is the area in which there are issues,'' Anene-Maidoh said.

According to him, Article 15 (4) of the Revised Treaty provides that judgments of the court are binding on all member states, individuals and corporate bodies.

Anene-Maidoh also said Article 24 of the Supplementary Protocol ``states that each member state is expected to appoint a national authority that will be responsible for the enforcement of the court's decisions, in accordance with her own rules of civil procedure. ``Unfortunately, only three member states have appointed the appropriate national authority; these are Nigeria, Republic of Guinea and the Republic of Niger,'' he added.

He said the apathy of the member states toward the implementation of the court's decisions could invariably erode the confidence of ECOWAS citizens in the court's ability to enforce the implementation of its decisions.

However, Dr Toga Gayewa, the Vice-President of the ECOWAS

Commission, attributed the nonimplementation of the court's decisions by member states to inadequate sensitisation.

He stressed the need for member states to organise public awareness campaigns on the ECOWAS Court of Justice, its mandate and the community laws to enable the citizens to understand all the salient issues involved. ``ECOWAS citizens ought to know more about the court; how to engage with it and the modalities for the implementation of its decisions. ``Armed with such knowledge, our citizens will be better placed to initiate, either by themselves or through their counsel, a writ before the court to express their grievances," he said.

Gayewa disclosed that the possibility of establishing an appellate court, as directed by ECOWAS Council of Ministers, would form part of the commission's priority programmes in 2013.

All the same, Prof. Muhammed Tawfiq of the Department of Public Law, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, proposed a strategic collaboration between the judiciary and executive arms of ECOWAS in efforts to implement the community laws and enforce the court's decisions.

However, observers insist that the political will of ECOWAS member states is paramount in

“The only reason why the government would put land in such areas into use would be only for recreational and tourism purposes.

“We have to discourage settlement along the waterways as there is enough land elsewhere where people can build their houses without any fear of flooding.

“I think a potent strategy on how to prevent this calamity from recurring is by constructing an embankment by the riverbank.

“Once that is done, it would prevent water from flowing into the hinterland and the recurrence of flood disasters would then be avoided,’’ Mayaki said.

However, concerned citizens stress that the flood disaster should be a wake-up call for the government to initiate pragmatic plans to check the recurrence of flooding and assuage the plight of those affected by the current flooding.

Habiba Umar, a journalist, said government should initiate public enlightenment campaigns on the effects of the flooding on the environment, while preventing the outbreak of epidemics.

“Government should try and help the flood victims because it is not easy. When you go to St. Luke’s Primary School, Lokoja, which is one of the camps set up for displaced persons; you will see more than 11 persons sharing a room.

“This is a very difficult situation, as it could even lead to epidemics and household quarrels,’’ she pleaded.

As a result of the flood, Mr. Steven Ajayi, a resident of Lokoja, called on the Kogi State Government to initiate a ferry service which would enable tourists to cross over to the other side of the state and even into Benue.

He said the ferry service would also bring in more revenue for the state, while creating employment opportunities.

•Awa-Nana-Daboya

efforts to implement the community laws and foster the integration of the sub-regional grouping.

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THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

NEWS EID-EL-KABIR Ajimobi calls for peaceful co-existence

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YO State Governor Abiola Ajimobi has advised Nigerians to imbibe the spirit of togetherness and peaceful co-existence to enhance growth and development.

The governor said it was only in an atmosphere of peace that Nigeria could achieve greatness.

Ajimobi, who spoke through his Special Adviser on Media, Festus Adedayo, condemned the spate of violence in some parts of the country. ``We cannot say we are brothers and sisters and still be carrying guns and machetes against one another.

“What do we stand to benefit by killing and maiming ourselves with ignominy?’’ he queried.

The governor urged Muslims to use the Eid-El-Kabir to pray for peace, progress and economic emancipation in the country.

He also admonished them to continue to show love towards their fellow human beings and dedication to the service of humanity as exhibited by Prophet Ibrahim.

The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to develop Oyo State and ensure that it is put on a sound footing.

Amaechi calls for unity

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IVERS State Governor and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum Rotimi Amaechi has called for prayers for peace, security and development in the country.

He congratulated Muslims for the successful conclusion of Hajj and urged them to continue to pray for unity in the country.

The statement by his Chief Press Secretary, David Iyofor, said: “As Nigerians, we should not relent in praying for our country, particularly for our leaders to lead right and for our people to grow in love and oneness to ultimately make our country a better place for us all.

“Let the love and generosity exhibited during the feast of sacrifice become part of our national life, as we strive to eschew violence and all forms of inhumanity.”

Uduaghan urges reflection

•Uduaghan

D

ELTA State Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan yesterday urged Muslims to reflect on the challenges facing the nation and support the Federal Government to surmount them.

The governor noted that the nation’s challenges require the cooperation of all to overcome.

In a goodwill message in

Asaba, the state capital, for the Eid-el-Kabir festival, Uduaghan said there was Nigerians should be their brothers’ keepers.

He said: “I call on all Muslims to use the period to reflect on the challenges facing the nation. It takes the concerted efforts of all to achieve meaningful development in any nation.

“This season calls for forgiveness and love for one another. There is need for Nigerians to be their brothers’ keeper in spite of all odds.”

The governor urged Muslims to imbibe the spirit of peace, sacrifice, love, piety, tolerance and mutual co-existence.

Be your brothers’ keepers, says Okorocha

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MO State Governor Rochas Okorocha has congratulated Muslim faithful on this year’s Eid-el-Kabir.

In a statement, Okorocha said the occasion calls for sober reflection and deep commitment to making sacrifices and selflessness in obedience to the Almighty Allah.

“We should strive to be our brother's keeper as well as work towards promoting religious tolerance, social harmony and peaceful co-existence.

“It is another opportunity for our Muslim brothers and sisters to pray for the unity and peace so that Nigeria will realise its potentials.

“We should say no to unwarranted killings and criminal activities and embrace one another towards building a nation of our collective dream and aspiration.”

•Customers waiting to use an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) at a bank in Bauchi...yesterday.

Aregbesola identifies recipe for development

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SUN State Governor Rauf Aregbesola has identified good governance, purposeful leadership and prudent management of resources as necessary ingredients for Nigeria's development.

In an Eid el-Kabir goodwill message, the governor, in a statement by his Director, Bureau of Communications and Strategy, Semiu Okanlawon, said what the nation needs is sincere leaders, who are driven by the desire to redirect it from gradual slide into social and economic doldrum.

He said corruption and divisive tendencies among eth-

From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

nic groups must be discouraged, if Nigeria must develop.

The governor said the political class and followers as well as religious leaders and their adherents must come together and forge a harmonious relationship for the love of their country, saying according to Prophet Muhammad (SAW), the love of one’s country is part of faith.

He called on the Muslim faithful to emulate Prophet Ibrahim and his son (Ismael), whose unshaken belief, perseverance and fulfillment of their promise to their Creator

earned them salvation, everlasting and divine compensation and glory till today.

Aregbesola said: "The time is ripe enough for us to know that we must either come together to jointly take our country to the height it deserves among the comity of nations or must assuredly ruin in it by hanging separately.

All hands must be on deck for us to move forward.

"Corruption is a cancerous tumour in the body of a nation. If not cured, it will fester, like we are witnessing today, and destroy the entire system. No nation, whose people thrive in corruption, develops. Hence, we must kill

•Aregbesola

this endemic ailment before it destroys the country.

"We must stop paying lip service to fundamental necessities, which are catalyst for development or else this nation would remain a dwarf to other nations, which ought to take directives from us."

Renew pact with Allah, says Oshiomhole

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DO State Governor Adams Oshiomhole yesterday urged the Muslims to renew their pact with Allah, in line with Quaranic teachings.

Oshiomhole said: “I rejoice with our Muslim brothers and sisters on this Eid-el Kabir Festival.

“The message of unflinching obedience to Allah, sacrifice and selflessness which is

From Osemwengie Ben Ogbemudia, Benin City

the hallmark of the festival must not be lost on the faithful.

“We must never forget Prophet Ibrahim’s total obedience to Almighty Allah when asked to sacrifice his son, and all of us who call on the name of Allah must strive to be selfless and trust in His judgement as the all-

sufficient, most merciful, and most gracious.

“On this occasion, the faithful must renew the spirit of obeisance to the will of our creator in accordance with the legacy of Prophet Ibrahim and deepen our faith in Allah.

“We should not forget to pray for our nation as it passes through this difficult phase.

“I believe with the prayers of the faithful, Allah in His incomparable majesty will heal the wounds of the nation, and take us to a desirable destination.

“I wish to remind all of us that, together, we have a duty to ourselves, our people and our nation to toe the line of peace with all men and imbibe the teachings of Islam.

“I wish all the faithful Happy Eid el Adha.”

Be submissive, Fayemi advises Muslims From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

Amosun advises Ogun pilgrims

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GUN State Governor Ibikunle Amosun has urged the state pilgrims to be upright as they complete the Hajj.

He gave this advice while addressing pilgrims through a telephone call to them while on Mount Arafat, Saudi Arabia.

The governor admonished them to reflect on the teachings and experiences gathered on the pilgrimage in their daily dealings.

“As you all become Alhajis and Alhajas from today, be reminded that it must now reflect positively in the community you reside and the society in general”.

Urging the pilgrims to support his administration with their prayers, Amosun assured the people of the government’s committment towards developing all parts of the state.

The Amir-ul-Hajj, Tajudeen Bello, congratulated all pilgrims for the grace to witness the climbing of Mount Arafat, urging all Muslim faithful to celebrate the Sallah period in moderation and fulfilment.

PHOTO: NAN

•Fayemi

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KITI State Governor Kayode Fayemi has congratulated Muslims for witnessing this year’s Eid –el- Kabir festival.

Fayemi, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Yinka Oyebode, urged Muslims to imbibe the lessons of sacrifice and total submission to the will of Allah.

The governor urged Mus-

lims to use the period to pray for peace, stability and prosperity in Ekiti State.

Describing Sallah as a period for sober reflection, Fayemi advised Muslims in Ekiti to celebrate the festival with moderation.

He said Prophet Ibrahim’s readiness to obey Allah’s command to sacrifice his son, Ishmael, marked a dramatic turning point in the worship of his Creator, who provided a ram for the sacrifice.

The governor noted that Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice gave him a double gain as God spared Ishmael’s life and provided a ram to be slaughtered instead of the son.

Fayemi said: “This has lent credence to one of my oft-re-

peated maxim which says that there can be no gain without pain.

“Taking a step to sacrifice one’s only son in obedience to the wish of Allah could be very painful and traumatic but the Prophet gained a lot by choosing to obey Allah and damn the consequences.

“We should always be

ready to make sacrifices which may be unpalatable at present but very gainful and sweet in the nearest future.

“I urge Muslims in Ekiti State in particular and Nigeria in general to draw lessons from the humility, piety, devotion and sacrifice exhibited by both Prophet Ibrahim and Ishmael.”

Obi calls for prayers

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NAMBRA State Governor Peter Obi has said this year’s celebration offers Muslims another opportunity to re flect on their spiritual lives, pray for themselves, others and the nation.

In a statement, Obi said: “As the celebration goes on, it reminds us to always reflect on the ideals of good living, which all religions preach; this abhors violence, but rather promotes peace and fraternity among men.

“Most importantly, may this period remind us all to be faithful to the Almighty and live according to His dictates, especially in our world that has been gravely wounded by vices of all types.”

THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

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NEWS FAAN complements security at international airports By kelvin Osa Okunbor

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HE Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) is complementing security at the four international airports in Lagos, Abuja, Kano and Port Harcourt, with the introduction of sniffer dogs and antiterrorism squads.

The new move is to enhance safety and security at the airports, as contained in the aviation road map of the Ministry of Aviation.

This measure, according to the FAAN’s General Manager, Corporate Services, Mr. Yakuku Dati, which will be extended to the other airports in the country later, is in line with the transformation agenda of the Federal Government in the aviation industry, designed to provide world-class facilities and service at the Nigerian airports.

Dati said a comprehensive audit of security and surveillance has been conducted on aircraft, terminal and security personnel to align them to the standards in the industry.

He said the airport security personnel have been trained in crowd control, body search and other specialised areas, while undercover surveillance is conducted by plainclothes officers.

The General Manager said currently, Nigerian airports have a full complement of modern security equipment, hand-held metal detectors, CCT cameras, x-ray screening machines and three dimensional scanning machines.

He said this is in addition to the 24 hours security patrol on the airside by the aviation security personnel and the presence of Police Bomb Disposal Units in the terminals.

Dati said: “The leadership team of the authority wishes to reassure all airport users, especially passengers, that Nigerian airports are safe and secure to travel through and that with the completion of the first phase of the airport remodelling project, service delivery at our airports can only get better.”

Koku for burial Nov 1

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R. Simeon Olujimi Koku is dead.

The remains of the former Chairman of the Young Men Christian Association (YMCA), Cathedral of St. Jude, will be interred on November 1 at Victoria Court Cemetery, Lekki-Epe Expressway, Lagos.

Other funeral programmes are: Service of songs on October 29 at 26, Olufemi Road, Surulere, Lagos.

Christian wake on October 31 at 5pm and funeral service on November 1 at the Cathedral of St Jude, Freeman Street, Ebute Meta, Lagos.

He is survived by his wife and children.

Ondo poll was an ‘organised charade’, says PDP T HE Ondo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has described last Saturday’s governorship election in the state as “a mere organised charade”.

In a statement by Dr. Dare Bada, the Director-General of the Olusola Oke Campaign Organisation, the party said: “The election was not only marred by irregularities and corruption, it has failed to reflect the true desires of the people of Ondo State who were looking forward to October 20 with high hope of bringing an end to deceit, waste, corruption and rudderless leadership.”

It said it was disappointed by “the top-level strategic

By Segun Balogun

manipulation that swung the poll in favour of the Labour Party’s (LP’s) candidate, Governor Olusegun Mimiko.

PDP said: “We are convinced and we say this to the whole world that the factors leading to this tragic experience were well known to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security forces, LP and the Ondo State government beforehand.

“In our humble view and from evidence at our disposal, the election was a mere

organised charade, as its outcome, as announced by INEC, was absolutely predetermined and predesigned.”

The party decried the flurry of congratulatory messages that greeted the declaration of Mimiko as the winner of the election.

It said: “It is embarrassing and regrettable that organised institutions and key personalities, who were not only absent during the election but who were also oblivious of the facts of the exercise, rushed to the media to congratulate the purported winner and attempted to

give him and the flawed electoral process undue credibility.

“The curious way and the manner of the emergency congratulatory messages, particularly by those who should know better, indicate their predetermined notion of where victory should go.”

PDP said it is analysing and collating reports of “massive irregularities and pervading non-compliance that characterised the entire process” and will soon shock those celebrating “this heavily flawed election.”

From left: The Managing Director/CEO, Media and Marketing, Mr. Ehi Braimah; Marketing Director, Unilever Nigeria Plc, Mr. David Okeme; and Chairman, Emergency Management Committee, Kogi State Flood Victims, Mr. Paul Okwenga, at the media briefing on the donation of relief materials to the Kogi State flood victims by the Unilever Nigeria Plc in Lagos on Wednesday.

Photo: Dan Ukana.

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Jonathan seeks prayers for security agencies

RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan yesterday urged Nigerians to pray that the nation’s security agencies experience divine intervention to overcome insecurity.

He spoke in Abuja at the third National Prayer Breakfast organised by the National Assembly.

The theme of the programme was: “Sacrifice with righteousness, a necessary ingredient for national transformation.”

The President, who was represented by the Minister of Police Affairs, Caleb Olubolade, noted that insecurity is the greatest challenge confronting the nation.

He enjoined leaders to shun corruption and preach peace to enable the country advance.

The President also urged Nigerians to pray to God to touch the hearts of the country’s detractors.

The Minister of Information, Labaran Maku, noted that it was time for the country to shift from “religious competitiveness” to “righteous competitiveness.”

He added that if people could behave righteously, the nation would be better.

The Director-General of the Institute for National Transformation, Prof.

Vincent Anigbogu, said Nigeria is not working accord-

•Says insecurity is greatest challenge From Sanni Onogu, Abuja

ing to the vision of its founding fathers.

He said the country needs quality leaders if it must develop.

Anigbogu said it was only selfless leadership and sound management principles that could revamp the country.

He added that leaders have to live for the future if the country must grow.

Said he: “Any nation that wants to grow must have a burning vision of the future, which in turn, it transmits to the children.

“Leaders must have a mind to solve problems.

“We need to create an environment that will allow Nigerians to be in their best element.

“If the country must advance, we must stop wasting our human resources and do everything that will make us great.

“We cannot develop without the requisite infrastructure.

“What can we do to change this nation?

“We must adopt the principles of functional righteousness.

“If you give this country to Europeans, they will make it

‘Any nation that wants to grow must have a burning vision of the future, which in turn, it transmits to the children.

Leaders must have a mind to solve problems.

We need to create an environment that will allow Nigerians to be in their best element’ the first in five years.”

Anigbogu enjoined those in power to “stop bringing shame to the country” through selfishness, corruption and greed.

Former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon led prayers for President Jonathan and other leaders.

He asked God to help them eschew corruption and grant them grace to rely on him in their activities.

The President of the National Prayer Breakfast, Senator Uche Chukwumerije, said the programme was predicated on the importance of prayers for divine guidance in governance and national growth.

He said: “It is our faith that our prayers will trigger the throne of grace to intervene in the intractable problems of our nation.”

Senator Sunny Ugboji led the prayers for Nigeria.

He asked God to forgive the country and turn its fortunes around positively.

The senator also asked God to show the nation mercy and give it a new lease of life.

Ugboji implored God to give Nigeria a second chance.

The Minister of Water Resources, Sarah Ochekpe, took the first Bible reading from the book of II Chronicles 7:11-20, while the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Emeka Ihedioha, represented by Andrew Uchendu, took the second Bible reading from 1 Peter 2:4-7.

The National Assembly Choir and a renowned gospel artiste, Dr. Panam Percy Paul, blessed the guests with soul-lifting music.

‘Give equal rights to people with disabilities during elections’ From Damisi Ojo, Akure

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HE Executive Director of Kids and Teens Resource Centre (K&TRC), a non-government organisation (NGO), Mr. Martin-Mary Falana, has said persons with disabilities should be represented in the processes of an election.

He said they should enjoy political rights on an equal basis with others, including the right to vote and be voted for.

Falana added: “We are equal, so we should have equal political rights, no matter the kind of disability we have.”

Speaking at a forum organised by the Democratic Governance for Development (DGD) for NGOs in Akure yesterday on the recently-concluded governorship poll, the Executive Director said sensitisng the electorate before, during and after an election should be part of the responsibilities of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

DGD has supported indigenous civil society organisations, such as Kids and Teens Resource Centre (K&TRC) and Life Line Empowerment Foundation (LLEF) in providing voter and civic education, sensitising and mobilising eligible voters to participate in the recently-concluded governorship poll.

DGD is a joint donor fund established to provide assistance to INEC and civil society organisations working on elections.

Lawmaker cautions agencies on death penalty law From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

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HE Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Judiciary, Dr. Ali Ahmad, has told the international agencies not to meddle in the affairs of Nigeria concerning its death penalty law.

He said he supported Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole’s recent approval of the execution of two condemned prisoners.

Ahmad said Nigeria should be allowed to implement its law since death penalty is part of the country’s legal document.

The lawmaker spoke with reporters in Ilorin after donating a transformer and electrical poles worth about N5 million to the Duma community at Oja-Igboro in Ilorin and a block of three classrooms to the Isale-Asa Local Government Education Authority Primary School also in Ilorin.

He said the position of the House of Representatives on the issue is that “Edo Governor was right to sign the execution of the two condemned prisoners.”

Ruling out arbitrariness in the decision of the governor, Ahmad noted that he had granted two condemned prisoners amnesty and commuted the sentence of another to life jail.

He said: “The two, whose execution order is causing a ripple of concern, were said to have committed a grievous offence, which precludes them from the governor’s leniency.

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THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

NEWS EID-EL-KABIR

FCTA assures residents of safety

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HE Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory, Ms Olajumoke Akinjide, has assured Abuja residents of their safety during the Eid-el-Kabir festival.

She enjoined Muslims to uphold the Islamic tenets of obedience, devotion, sacrifice, love, peace and uprightness.

Ms Akinjide urged them to imbibe the lessons of Eid-elKabir underlined by piety, kindness, promotion of religious harmony, peaceful coexistence and rededication to service.

The minister, in a statement by her Special Assistant on Media & Publicity, Oluyinka Akintunde, urged Muslims to remain fervent in

From Bukola Amusan, Abuja

their prayers for Nigeria.

She assured residents and visitors of their safety and security during and after the festive period.

“On behalf of the FCT Minister Bala Mohammed and the management of the FCTA, I wish to convey our warm felicitations and sincere good wishes to our Muslim brothers and sisters.

“As we celebrate, we must continue to show love and respect for one another and reflect on the ideals of unity, cohesion and mutual understanding, as well as be graceful to the less privileged members of the society.”

•Executive members of the Private Educators Conference at their fourth annual meeting at The Haven, Archbishop Vining PHOTO:JOHN EHBOTA Memeorial Church, Ikeja, Lagos.

Let’s pray for Nigeria, says Akume

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ENATE Leader George Akume has called on Muslims to pray for peace, stability and the socioeconomic as well as political development of the nation.

In a statement, Akume said: “On behalf of my family and the good people of Benue Northwest Senatorial District, I extend warm greetings to the Muslim Ummah in Nigeria as they celebrate Eid-el-Kabir.

“This is a festival of sacrifice even as this year’s festival is celebrated in the face of daunting security challenges and ecological threat.

“We are also be willing to

sacrifice and endure the harsh and difficult socio-economic conditions being foisted on us.

“May we continue to make sacrifices for the peace and stability of this great country.

“May our aggrieved Muslim brothers sheath their sword and embrace dialogue and negotiation for the peace and development of this nation.

“Let us take advantage of the on-going constitutional amendment to communicate our grievance.

“I urge the Federal Government to use this occasion to promote Nigerians’ well-being and defend their collective and individual rights.”

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Man arrested for ‘poisoning’ 50 rams in Ibadan

FORTY-YEAR-old man has been arrested in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, for allegedly poisoning 50 rams due to the refusal of the seller to bribe him.

The suspect was arrested, following a report by the ram seller, Mohammed Gobo of Gonori village, Gujuba Local Government, Yobe State.

It was gathered that Gobo reported at Eleyele Police Station that the suspect demanded a bribe from him to allow him offload his rams beside his shop at Aleshiloye market.

Gobo pleaded with him to

From Bisi Oladele, Ibadan

allow him sell some rams before giving him the requested sum.

He added that the suspect threatened to poison his rams, if he refused to offer the bribe.

A source said: “At about

1am the next day, he went to the place where he kept his rams, and was stunned to see 50 dead.

The suspect has since been arrested while a veterinary doctor has been contacted for analysis.”

The Police Public Rela-

tions Officer (PPRO), Ayodele Lanade, said Gobo and his friends refused to allow the police to conduct autopsy on the dead animals.

Major markets and supermarkets in the city were crowded yesterday with shoppers for the Sallah festival. This caused traffic snarls across the city.

Adhere to the rule of law, advises Fashola

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AGOS State Governor Babatunde Fashola (SAN) has enjoined Nigerians to conform to the tenets of the rule of law.

He said without law and order, no society would prosper.

In his Sallah Message, the governor said the act of obedience demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim when he was commanded by the Almighty Allah to sacrifice his only son, Ismael, is a compelling factor for all Muslims to

S

By Oziegbe Okoeki

gratulated Muslims.

He urged them to emulate Prophet Ibrahim by being resolute and committed, even when faced with adversity.

“We have to continue to emulate Prophet Ibrahim for that wonderful service he rendered to his Creator, by of-

fering his only son as a sacrifice. We continue to be obedient, dedicated and committed in our relationship with the Almighty God, our creator, the governments and people around us.

“This should also reflect in all Muslims’ positive attitude to all the laws passed by the legislature.

Plateau distributes N21m items

HE Plateau State Government yesterday distributed assorted items worth N21 million to Muslims for the Eid-El Kabir festivities.

The Commissioner for Water Resources, Idi Waziri, who shared the items in Jos, said the gesture is to assist the

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during democracy; an egalitarian society where every citizen will have the opportunity to attain his or her potentials in life”, the governor said.

He implored all Nigerians, particularly the Muslims, to use the period of the celebration to rededicate themselves to the maintenance of law and order in the society adding: “Without the rule of law, no society can progress and without law and order, life will be both intolerable and unbearable”.

Ikuforiji: be more committed

PEAKER of the Lagos State House of Assembly Adeyemi Ikuforiji has urged Muslims to be more obedient and dedicated in the service to God and humanity.

Ikuforiji, who gave the admonition in his message, by his Chief Press Secretary, Rotimi Adebayo, also con-

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learn from in the maintenance of law and order in our society.

“Our nation is greatly challenged by the inconsistencies in our attitude to the rule of law; yet the great religions of the world preach obedience as the only condition for our close relationship with the Almighty Allah”.

“The significance of the act cannot be more relevant at any other time in our history than today when we need all hands on deck to build an en-

less privileged and boost the spirit of unity among all groups.

“The state government wants to strengthen unity among people of various groups; we want to extend our good will to all groups,’’ Waziri said.

The commissioner said

Governor Jonah Jang called on the Muslim faithful to use the festivity to pray for lasting peace for Plateau and Nigeria.

“The governor has continued to challenge all residents to live in peace and be each other’s keeper; that is the spirit we are promoting,’’ he said.

ANPP calls for sober reflection

HE National Chairman of the All Nigeria People Party (ANPP), Ogbonnaya Onu, yesterday urged Muslims to reflect on how the country will remain peaceful and develop.

As a people, Onu said everyone should resolve to heal wounds that hurt, calm frayed nerves, replace hate with love and above all, learn to: “accommodate views that may differ from ours for the growth of our democracy and the oneness of our people as

From Gbenga Omokhunu, Abuja

members of one family.”

In a statement in Abuja, Onu said: “As our beloved country men and women join the rest of the world to celebrate this year’s Eid-elKabir, our great party urges them to reflect on the manifest destiny of our beloved country.

“The challenges of today demand that we redouble our efforts in the pursuit of those cherished attributes that will

enable us restore faith in the unity and progress of our dear country.

“We urge that in the spirit of Eid-el-Kabir, we renew our faith in the sacredness of our collective happiness, insist on mutual peace and more importantly, embrace forgiveness for one another as the basis for building a strong, united, peaceful and prosperous Nigeria where though tribe and tongue may differ, in brotherhood we should continue to stand.”

THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

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THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

10

NEWS Akume mourns Sheila Solarin

Six dead, 15 injured in Ibadan-Oyo road crash S

IX persons were yesterday killed in an accident on the Ibadan/ Oyo Expressway’ Fifteen people were injured.

The accident occurred in Fiditi.

It was gathered that the tyres of a Sokoto–bound bus burst and it somersaulted.

Sources said the victims

From Bode Durojaiye, Oyo

were carried off the road by policemen and men of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).

The injured were taken to

the State Hospital, Oyo, and the bodies of the deceased have been deposited at the hospital’s mortuary.

The Acting Medical Officer of the hospital, Dr. Alayo Ayo, said: “Six persons have

been confirmed dead. We are treating 15 persons with crush injuries, ragged laceration and flush avulsion, even though we are yet to see their relations. We are trying to contact them through the victims’ mobile phones and we are optimistic that they will respond.

Saving their lives is the most important thing.”

NDLEA destroys 60-acre hemp farms in Ibadan

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FFICIALS of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have destroyed three Indian hemp farms at Oluyole Local Government Area of Oyo State.

It was learnt that about 25 armed NDLEA officials stormed a government forest reservation area in the council, Gambari Forest Reserve and destroyed the farms, which were located on Ijebu Road.

The officers parked their cars at the Reserve’s gate and walked for about an hour before getting to the farms.

NDLEA Assistant State Commander Operation and Intelligence Mr. Inyamah Godwin led the team.

He said the 60-acre farms were discovered following a tip-off.

Inyamah said: “This is a serious operation. You can see that the journey from where we packed our vehi-

From Oseheye Okwuofu, Ibadan

cles to the farms was very long. This is to tell our people that NDLEA means business and will not stop until it gets rid of this illicit business in our nation.”

He said the farms were worth millions of naira, add-

ing that the plantswere matured and due for harvesting.

Inyamah said: “These drugs will be due for harvesting in two weeks. What we have done here today is to prevent the drugs from being harvested, let alone enter the market to destroy

the lives of people. Many people are getting mad almost every day.

“Nobody has been arrested in connection with the farms. I am sure the owners of the farms are watching us, but they will not show their faces.”

He warned those in the illicit business to desist.

‘Help the vision-impaired’

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HE Nigeria Association of the Blind (NAB), Ogun State chapter, has urged the public to be mindful of vision-impaired persons when driving.

They said they have the right to movement, convenience and safety on roads and walkways like every other person.

NAB Chairman Mulero Makinde spoke in Abeokuta, the state capital, during this year’s White Cane Day cele-

From Ernest Nwokolo, Abeokuta

bration.

Makinde urged commercial drivers and other road users to always put the physically-challenged into consideration.

He urged the public to respect the “White Cane” and assist them in crossing roads.

Makinde said: The White Cane is akin to the conventional traffic light. It serves as eyes and guides the blind. It tells you that they need help to cross or

walk safely on roads and walkways.

“Those bearing White Canes should not be seen as beggars, as many of them are well-educated.”

He said a bill to protect the blind is being prepared and would be sent to the House of Assembly.

The state government, through the Commissioner for Women’s Affairs, Mrs. Elizabeth Sonubi, distributed over 20 White Canes to the blind to help them move around easily.

•A k u m e

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ENATE Minority Leader George Akume has commiserated with the family of the late Dr. Tai Solarin on the death of Mrs. Sheila Solarin.

In a condolence letter to the family, Akume said: “I express my deepest condolences over the demise of your mother, Mrs. Solarin.

The death of a very dear

one such as a mother, especially at a time when her wise counsel is needed most, is indeed painful.

“As one who has lost his mother too, the passing-on of your mother is a pain I feel and deeply share with you. While we must mourn her demise, may we be consoled by the fact that as a mother and educationist, she served her family and humanity to the best of her ability.

“She made numerous contributions to the educational development of this country and has left enduring legacies for all to emulate. Her death is a loss to the entire nation.

“On behalf of my family and the people of Benue Northwest Senatorial District, I commiserate with you and the entire Solarin family over this great loss.

I pray the Almighty God to give you the strength to bear the loss and to grant her eternal rest.”

Olofa to host summit

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HE Olofa of Offa in Kwara State, Oba Mufutau Oloyade Gbadamosi, will host the International Leadership Summit.

The event, tagged: Olofa International Leadership Summit (OILS), will focus on leadership skills and youth empow-

From Ernest Nwokolo, Abeokuta

erment.

The facilitators of the summit are Global Organisation Nigeria (GON), DSV Global Concepts Nigeria (DGCN) and the African Youth Leadership Foundation (AYLF), South Africa.

ODUACIMA backs regional integration HE Odu’a Chambers in Southwest of Commerce, Indus-

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try, Mines and Agriculture (ODUACIMA) yesterday said regional integration in the Southwest would foster economic growth.

ODUACIMA President Mrs. Alaba Lawson said the group would return agriculture to its pride of place in the Southwest.

She hailed Southwest governors for improving infrastructure in the zone.

Mrs. Lawson spoke at the Lekan Salami Sports Complex, Adamasingba, Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, during the Chamber’s general meeting.

The meeting was held in preparation for the 2012 Trade Fair slated for December.

The theme of the fair, which will hold in Ibadan, is: “Agriculture - A guarantee

From Oseheye Okwuofu, Ibadan

for sustainable growth”.

Mrs. Lawson said agriculture, which used to be the mainstay of the nation’s economy, should be given the deserved attention to boost food sufficiency and economic growth.

She said: “Agriculture is of high significance to us in the Southwest. We are working towards eradicating poverty.”

Urging the government to introduce modern farming technology to attract youths, Mrs. Lawson said: “It is not just about disbursing money to people but getting the funds across to the right people and ensuring that the funds are applied appropriately.”

She said there is need to establish a refinery in the region.

The ODUACIMA President said: “We need to establish a refinery in the Southwest. Our governors should ensure that the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) repairs all the vandalised and disused pipelines.

“It is lamentable that we do not have a functional refinery in the region. Seventy per cent of the petroleum products of the country are consumed in the Southwest.”

She bemoaned the low rate of export of non-oil products in the country and urged the government to improve on the cultivation of arable crops.

Oyo council gets ACN caretaker committee

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SEVEN-man Caretaker Committee has been inaugurated to manage the affairs of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in Egbeda Local Government Area of Oyo State.

The Committee’s Chairman is Deacon Segun Oyediran and Alhaji Dauda Bashiru is the Secretary.

Members of the committee include Maj. Opawale (rtd.), Alhaja Zainab Juwon, Mr. K. Obisesan, Mr. Mufutau Oyewo, Mr. Mathew Akinwalere, Mr. Nafiu Kamilu and Mr. Fatai Akinsanmi.

The former executives were suspended by the ACN State Executives to allow for equal representation and better organisation of the party in the council.

The inauguration was attended by the party’s leaders in the council, including Prince Fatunbi, Apostle Falade, Ahaji Babatunde Ismaila, Alhaji Ganiyu Alade, Mrs. Dele Akinwale and Mrs. Tijani Comfort.

At the ceremony, the ACN State Chairman, Chief Akin Oke, hailed members for handling the incident that led to the sus-

pension of the former party executive with maturity.

He said: “Our great party is very unique when it comes to party formation, organisation and administration. The party undertook a series of reforms to give members at the grassroots more roles in the selection of candidates and leadership to create a sense of belonging.”

Oyediran urged members to support his committee and pledged to effectively implement the party’s programmes and policies.

THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

11

BUSINESS

The dollarisation of the economy is a big problem for all of us and it is something that we are going to work towards stopping. One major plank of solving the problem of dollarisation was the N5,000 note because that is one of the reasons people go for dollars and that is the reality.

- Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, CBN governor

THE NATION

E-mail:- bussiness@thenationonlineng.net

Union Bank chair seeks diversified economy

MTN woos customers

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By Paul Oluwakoya

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ORRIED by the poor state of the na tion’s economy, Chairman, Union Bank PLC, Mr Dick Kramer, has urged the Federal Government to deregulate the Nigerian economy and diversify to non-oil sector to cushion effects of dwindling price of crude oil in the international market.

He made the call in Lagos while delivering a keynote address on “Deregulation and Nigeria’s investment Climate,” at a seminar organised by Nigeria South African Chamber of Commerce and Phillip Consulting.

According to Kramer, there is need for deregulation in every sector of the economy to sustain a stable growth that would complement the country’s rapid population growth.

The financial expert noted that the petroleum sector is the major driver of Nigerian economy, but also a source of major problems and risks. He said the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) might not be the solution to the nation’s economic problem.

“PIB raises major questions that need to be fully debated and resolved. Nigeria needs to ascertain the feasibility of the bill, how to expand local capacity and participation in the oil sector, because Nigeria cannot afford the risk of a sharply lower oil sector, the question on how to maintain the required technological capability to optimise Nigeria’s petroleum industry need to be resolved,” he said.

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 JSE NYSE LSE

-N6.503 trillion -Z5.112trillion -$10.84 trillion -£61.67 trillion RATES Inflation -10.5% 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 $35.8b FOREX CFA -0.2958 EUR -206.9 £ -242.1 $ -156 ¥ -1.9179 SDR -238 RIYAL -40.472

• From left: An official from the Corporate Development Group of Sterling Bank Plc, Mr Ighodalo Aimienwanu; winners of just concluded 1000 Things I Can Do For My Country in the Facebook Sterling Bank Campaign, Timothy Chima; Abimbola Olamiposi; Akaninyene Uko; and an official of the bank, Mrs. Kate Edoho, during the presentation of Blackberry Phone to the winners in Lagos.

Excess Crude Account: Fed Govt raises peace team A

HEAD of the November 22 date for the submission of the report of settlement of the Excess Crude Account (ECA) or the taking of motions, the Federal Government has raised a team to study terms for out of court settlement on the dispute between it and the states.

The Nation learnt that the Federal Government might not be able to refund the deducted cash being demanded by the states, rather it wants to rely on judicial pronouncement to resolve the matter following what it considers as ‘huge’claims from the states.

The states are insisting on the refund of the money illegally deducted from the Federation Account to fund the Excess Crude Account, having submitted their demands, upon which they can settle out of court.

“We have forwarded the terms we thought could serve as the roadmaps for the resolution of the dispute on the illegality of the ECA. “First of all, the Federal Government should own up to the fact that the Account

• States insist on full refund

From Yusuf Alli, Managing Editor, Northern Operation

is illegal. The Federal Government cannot deduct any money from the Federation Account. The establishment and operation of and its unilateral deductions from the Excess Crude Account during the period between 2004 -2007 were inconsistent with the provisions of Section 162 of the 1999 Constitution.

“The states are also asking for full refund of the funds illegally deducted or diverted to fund the illegal Excess Crude Account. No state has less than N30 billion to collect if the out of court settlement sails through.

“We have facts, based on oil price and budget benchmark, to prove beyond reasonable doubt that the Federal Government can effect refund of the outstanding sum.

“We also have issues concerning signature bonuses and JV.”

They are asking the Federal Government to bear the legal costs and the professional fees of the lawyers for a the parties. The amount is to be paid within seven days of the execution of the Terms of Settlement, directly to the Plaintiff’s lead counsel.

“The states are demanding equitable shares corresponding to each state and local government council monetary values in the National Integrated Power Project (NIPP), Railway Modernisation Deductions and Ibom Power Plant Project Deductions.

“To start with, they want a the assets, including contracts of the NIPP, which was paid for using about $8.425 billion from the Federation Account to be clearly identified, inventoried and valued by a competent and reputable Nigerian accounting firm.”

A source in the govern-

Free 50m ID cards coming

T

HE Federal Govern ment has promised to bear the cost of providing the first 50million national identity cards for Nigerians, the Director-General, National Identity Management Commission ( N I M C ) , D r C h r i s Onyemenan, has said.

Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting in Lagos, he said the cards would be issued free to Nigerians to ensure the success of the project.

“The first N50million cards would be free as the Federal Government will pay for them. Most of the projects undertaken for the successful management of the national identity scheme are at the implementation stage. We will issue the na-

By Akinola Ajibade

tional identity number (NIN) that would not only be 11 digits but would be randomly generated to safeguard the identities of Nigerians,” he said.

He added: “The government has released N12billion out of N30billion budgeted for NIMC.” Onyemenan said every Nigerian would have a national identity card to ascertain their nationalities, as well as help them to curtail fraud in the country.

He said the national identity card does not confer citizenship on foreigners, arguing that foreigners who manipulate their ways into the country would be fished out

as soon as they arrive.

Onyemenan, while responding to an allegation that there are many foreigners residing illegally in Nigeria, said the cards have a lot of biometric features that can easily detect untoward practices.

“If a foreigner manipulates the ID Card, NIMC would get him because it would ask for certain valuable information that he would not be able to provide answers to,” he added.

Onyemenan said efforts were on to integrate the database between the private and the public sector, adding that the development would assist in complementing the objectives which the commission was set up for.

ment said: “We have got a copy of the terms of settlement and a team headed by the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Justice is looking into these conditions.

“But some of the conditions are spurious and untenable. For instance, why will they ask the Federal Government to bear the legal costs and the professional fees of the lawyers for all the parties?”

EW and existing cus tomers, on the MTN network, are getting more value for their money as MTN has rolled out another mouth-watering package, the MTN Wow Weekend, which offers subscribers double the amount of recharge made on weekends.

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To enjoy this exciting offering, subscribers are encouraged to load airtime from 6pm on Fridays using the code *888* the 12- digit PIN # and send. You, instantly, get 100% bonus to make calls to MTN lines.

GUS 9: Two down, 10 to go!

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yo Ojueromi ought to have taken special care of her Golden Key, the singular most important item handed to each of the contestant. It was nowhere to be found as they prepared for their first assembly at The Place of The Talking Drum.

She was obviously livid at the development and even the consolation from her fellow competitors was not enough.

Chidi Mokeme had noticed at the place of the Talking Drum that she did not wear the key around her neck. By evening, the Golden Key had still not been found. Not even with concerted efforts from the others contestants. Thus, Ayo Ojueromi was evicted!

It was her second defeat of the day having been a part of the losing team in the day’s task. Ogbuefi Michael, had a reward for winning the task before and was given the privilege of dividing the remaining contestants into two teams for the group task. After identifying the weaker team, he was asked

to join them which involved assembling pieces of a puzzle with the aid of a compass.

At the end of hostilities, the team comprising: Ogbuefi Michael, Bonford Patience, Ayo O jueromi, Adah Uleh James, Udodi Priscillia and Ojezele Paschal Eronmose lost out. They were to prepare a live cockerel for the winning team comprising: Uzoma Oluchi Osimpka, Ifet Iniobong, Ujam Chukwunonso Emmanuel, Ezeh Priscillia and Haruna Nuhu Zigway as punishment.

Worse still, they were exempted from devouring the meal.

With the pangs of hunger hitting them hard, the contingent were tempted to slaughter the cockerel which they nicknamed Michael earlier in the morning That surely would have incurred the wrath of the Council of Elders.

GUS 9, continues tonight on AIT, African Magic World (DSTV) and Real Star (Star Times) at 10pm.

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THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

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THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

AGRO-BUSINESS

Expert warns on adulterated food products ‘Flood-tolerant crops needed’

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CONOMICALLY motivated adulteration (EMA) costs the food and consumer products industry millions yearly, food safety expert Prof Stephen Fapohunda has said.

EMA is the fraudulent, intentional substitution or addition of a substance in a product to increase its value or reduce the cost of its production.

Internationally, the cost of one adulteration incident averages between two and 15 per cent of yearly revenue.

In an interview with The Nation, Fapohunda,who is of the Department of Biosciences and

Stories by Daniel Essiet

Biotechnology, Babcock University, Ilishan Remo, Ogun State, said EMA is a serious issue because people who perpetrate it defraud the public for economic gain, making it a criminal act.

He said there were cases of Nigerians going to China to fake products, misrepresent food, food ingredients, and repackage a legitimate product fraudulently.

Fapohunda said the economy and the health of Nigerians were at risk with high rate of counterfeiting.

While all incidents of EMA

will not result in a public health risk, he noted that they have the potential to negatively impact brands.

According to him, EMA is fraudulent because it involves substituting a lower cost product for a higher one.

Many are involved in the act, and the adulterants used may be unconventional and difficult to detect.

Therefore, access to legitimate products must be sufficiently protected and monitored within the production facilities from visitors and unauthorised employees to prevent diversion of products for illegitimate means.

•Dr Elemo (left) and Blanch in her office

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FIIRO, firms to boost tomato production

HE Federal Institute of Industrial Research, Oshodi (FIIRO) and two companies are set to boost tomato production and processing.

The two firms are Talon Group Nigeria and Alvan Blanch of the United Kingdom.

Speaking with The Nation, after her meeting with representatives of the company, last week, the Director General of FIIRO, Dr Gloria Elemo, said more than 50 per cent of harvested tomatoes spoil due to inadequate processing and packaging facilities.

According to her, the nutritional value of tomato makes it one of the most popular items. There are many reasons for processing tomatoes. The major one, she noted, is ensuring the product is available all-year round with preservation.

As its commercial value increases,

Dr Elemo said efficient processing was important to facilitate healthy movement of the produce to the market.

She said the produce would be processed into various products, such as sauce, paste, ketchup, chutney, puree, jam, juice or squash, and base of other sauces.

In the tomato value chain, she noted that farmers and other actors have been applying inferior production approach in harvesting and post-harvesting technologies, leading to a high level of tomato loss and price fluctuations.

Dr Elemo said FIIRO would like to make technology for processing tomatoes affordable at middle and large-scale levels.

She said the institute wanted to improve processing throughout the main production areas and to support farmers within geographic clusters in the production and marketing of tomatoes.

According to her, development of the processing sector may stimulate quality production practices among suppliers.

She expressed the hope that the collaboration will strengthen small enterprises, enhance productivity/ profitability and off-farm incomes through increased access to markets and services.

The Managing Director, Alvan Blanch, Mr Andew Blanch, said his company has helped farmers access hitech engineering equipment that enabled them to expand product range, improve product quality and meet the needs of more discerning customers while increasing their earnings.

Odu’a Farmers Academy admits 500 OYES cadets

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VER 500 members of the Osun State Youths Empowerment Scheme (‘O’ Yes) have been admitted into Odu’a Farmers’ Academy for a six-month practical training in modern farming.

The cadets, who are mainly young men released from the scheme by the Osun State Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, for the training, will be exposed to modern techniques in the management of food crops, horticulture and rearing of commercial livestock.

The courses include commercial crop production (maize, water melon, vegetable, pepper, tomatoes) livestock production and short courses on project management and aquaculture.

The move by the state government to engage the youth in mechanised farming is aimed at helping

From Bisi Oladele, Ibadan

to plug the shortage of food production in the state.

Aregbesola said with the training, the agricultural potential of the state would be developed, adding that food would be made available and at low price to the people.

The governor had disclosed that the focus of his administration would be on industrialising the state through farming and provision of essential facilities to better the living standard of the people of the state.

The Group Managing Director (GMD) of Odu’a Investment Company Limited, Mr Adebayo Jimoh, while receiving the students, said the academy was established to provide the highest level of qualitative and modern training for new and emerging commercial farmers in viable food commodities to sus-

tain food security in Nigeria.

He said the cadets would be exposed to theory and practice of farming and this would bring about an alternative to the old traditional way of farming.

The Odu’a boss noted that the trainees would enjoy an after-training follow-up and support by the government through their local governments in making available lands and soft loans for their takeoff at the end of the programme.

The academy situated at the old farm centre, (AISU) Ede, near Abere in Osun State provides training for commercial farmers in food commodities.

It will assist trainees in planning and laying out farms and farm estates, processing, farm business management and executing trainer’s feasibility and writing bankable proposal.

A

CROP protection expert, Dr Daniel Gwary, has urged farmers to plant more floodtolerant crops that can survive the effects of climate change.

Speaking with The Nation, Gwary, who is an Associate Professor, Department of Crop Protection, University of Maiduguri, said farmers would need to switch crops to address the impact of flooding.

He said flooding could negatively impact on food production, land and water resources.

He said flood-tolerant crops have a fighting chance to outlast rains and floods.

To cope with the continuing weather-related losses, Gwary said farmers were switching to maize and other resilient crops.

To deal with the more challenging weather conditions, he said farmers should grow a variety of high-yield crops, such as tomatoes and vegetables. He urged farmers to ensure that the progress they have made is not eroded because of the changing weather.

According to him, the strategies should include flood-resistant crops to irrigation systems. Intense and unpredictable periods of rain have ruined crops and threatened livelihoods in most parts of the country. Drought has also become a problem in the North.

Meanwhile, the Federal Government has assured that there will be no famine or food scarcity in by 2013, as rumoured following floods that disrupted farming in some parts of the country.

The Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr Akinwumi Adesina, gave the assurance at the just-concluded National Agriculture Show in Tudun Wada, Nasarawa State.

“We have already put in place a Flood Recovery Food Production plan to support farmers in the flood affected areas,” he said.

“As the flood water recedes, we will embark on a flood recession

food production intervention. me assure Nigerians that we •Let M shall not have food crisis or famine and we will recover from the flood.” Adesina said over 100 metric tonnes of maize seeds that mature in 60 days, to be planted on 5,500 hectares of farm lands in the affected areas, had been secured. This, he explained, would allow affected farmers to have crops quickly and feed themselves before the next planting season. He added that it would yield over 11,000 tonnes of the crop.”

This will be complemented with an additional 500,000 tonnes to be produced under irrigation in the dry season,” he said.

The minister added that the Federal Government had, in the past week, mobilised from within and outside Nigeria, over 20,000 metric tonnes of rice seeds. The seeds are enough to plant on 400,000 hectares of farm lands in the flood affected areas.

He added that this would allow the production of 1.2 million metric tonnes of rice grains. According to him, planting materials for cassava and yam would also be made available and government was making accessible food, from the strategic grain reserves, to the affected states.Adesina harped on the need to increase the weatherindex crop insurance scheme for farmers.

“The flood is a wake-up call and with changing weather patterns.

We must develop policies for protecting farmers from the impacts of climate change, especially droughts and floods,” he said.

“We need to scale-up the weather-index crop insurance scheme for farmers.Area-based flood insurance schemes must be put in place to ensure disaster payments to farmers and communities from floods and droughts that occur over vast areas and well beyond individual farmers,” he added.

Zamfara farmers get N3.7m loan

N

O fewer than 124 smallscale farmers in Zamfara State have received soft loans of about N3.7 million under the Self-reliance Economic Advancement Programme (SEAP), the Executive Director of the programme, Dr Olatunde Oladokun, has said.

He spoke while disbursing the loans in Gusau. He said the beneficiaries were selected from Gusau, Talata Mafara and Bukkuyyum local government areas.

Oladokun said more than N112 million ha been disbursed to farmers under the pogramme this year.

He said the objective of the loan was to provide small-scale farmers with a strong capital base for agricultural investment that could multiply their output and turn their economy around.

He said the programme was ex-

pected to equip the farmers with improved productive capacity and gear them towards saving their profit for self-reliance.

He said the programme was packaged in collaboration with the IFAD-assisted Rural Finance Institution Building Programme (RUFIN), to assist farmers to realise their dream of higher yield in agricultural production.

He called on the state government to support the programme by providing a micro-finance facility so that the loan scheme could be replicated in other local government areas of the state.

In his remark on the occasion, the state Commissioner for Agriculture, Alhaji Malami Yandoto, advised the beneficiaries to make judicious use of the loan and ensure prompt repayment so that the programme could be sustained.

Fed Govt to boost pig production in Abia

T

HE Federal Government will embark on the enhancement of pig production in Abia State next year, Mr Simeon Oziri, the Federal Director of Agriculture, in the state, has said.

Oziri disclosed this during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Umuahia on efforts to improve animal protein.

He stressed the need to increase animal protein in the state, lamenting that Abia had not done well in goat and sheep production.

He said the Federal Government had ordered the enumeration of pig farmers in the 17 local government areas of the state.

“The response has been impressive and it is our hope that this type of massive turnout of pig farmers will

sustain the programme.”

Oziri said the Federal Government wanted to leverage on the potential of the state in pig production and marketing to increase animal protein in the area.

“The pig market in Abia has been massive and lucrative and has provided employment for the people,” he said.

According to him, Abia is one of the states that has a large market for pork.

“That is why the Federal Government wants to add value to what is already on ground in order to boost the potential of the pig farmers.

“Pork is one of the best meat you can think of and it has actually been a ‘hot cake’ in Abia.

“By the time the empowerment of

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THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

AGRO-BUSINESS STATE FOCUS

Boosting food production in Kebbi

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•Aregbesola with Osun O’ Beef Construction consultant from South Africa, Jan Cloete, at the inauguration of the ranch.

Osun opens cattle ranch T

HE Osun State government has opened a cattle ranch where a new agro-based industry is emerging.

This is part of a plan to assist livestock farmers to improve milk and meat production.

Governor Rauf Aregbesola,who opened the beef farm , said it would boost self-reliance in food production as well as create economic bases and job opportunities for the people.

The Oloba Farm Settlement at Iwo, according to the government, is primarily targeted at boosting agriculture, meat and food production, food processing and mass agro-based employment.

Aregbesola’s theory is that given the huge market for cattle in Lagos and other southwest states, animal rearing has become a lucrative business for Osun.

The governor described the potential of the beef market in the Southwest as huge, adding that it could not be waved aside by visionary government.

For instance, he disclosed that in Lagos alone, about 6,000 cattle are slaughtered daily in the abattoirs, while the remaining five states combined conservatively accounts for another 6,000 based on their total population.

This translates to a huge N4.4 billion per annum. This huge market demand for beef, the governor argued, carries the potential to empower the state and the entire Southwest people economically through wealth creation. ”It is the objective of this administration in the State of Osun to create the enabling environment that will make this happen.

“We will be dedicating and developing hundreds of hectares of land into grazing reserves, cattle markets, breeding centres, and fattening hubs.

This will be in addition to the new central abattoirs that we are developing in selected towns across the state,” Aregbesola said.

It is against this backdrop that the

By Daniel Essiet

government began a study of the process to come up with a programme that will be indigenous to the state and the region.In February 2011, this assignment took them to the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) in Ibadan, where they discussed about building partnerships to help the state develop a robust framework for implementing an innovative programme that focuses on Beef Chain Development in Osun.

What came out of the interactions between the Osun team and the ILRI is the abattoir-linked enterprises that include fattening, breeding and marketing activities.

Hence, government decided that the strategic option for the state is to adopt the value chain approach to developing the beef sector in the state, with a preliminary target, excluding production for local consumption, of serving a minimum 10 per cent of the Lagos 6,000 cattle per day market. This, it was gathered, would be achieved through a strategic initiative incorporating activities such as cattle genetics improvement, breeding, fattening, slaughter and beef marketing.

With the resulting strategic discussion with the ILRI, between December 11th and 16th, 2011, Aregbesola led a delegation of selected state government officials on a tour of the Zambian agricultural industry. Research revealed that Zambia has practised what could be achieved through agriculture as a means for creating jobs and wealth for the people.

The first, it was gathered, hinged on gaining a first hand understanding of the Zambian success story in agricultural development, as well as to begin the development of the beef sector in Osun. The programme hit the ground running and this result is the Oloba cattle ranch, which the governor revealed would not be the only one in the state as efforts are on to establish more in viable locations in the state.Oloba Cattle Ranch is

about 78.8 hectares in size.

Plans are afoot to establish others in Ede (400 hectares) and Ejigbo (1,000 hectares). Land has been acquired for this purpose and the location would have grazing reserves and cattle hub – including markets, feed mills. The grazing reserves will help us to tackle the recurring feud between the Fulani pastoralists and the crop farmers usually caused as a result of cattle grazing on farms.

At present, the ranch, which is being managed by a South African expert in conjunction with Interna-

tional Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) and Faculty of Agri-

culture, Obafemi Awolowo University, has 1500 cattle sourced locally.

The farm is being run with the technical direction of foreign Technical Partners from Zambia and South Africa.

According to the governor, 30 foreign species of cattle called the Zambian Boran, would be introduced to the ranch with a view to genetically crossbreeding them with local ones to get new indigenous species.When fully in operation, the ranch, which will be run on public private partnership basis, will have modern abattoir that offers services to the people at a lower rate. Government also intends to promote the establishment of cattle and ram feedlots and as such, efforts are in progress to put the feedlot infrastructure in place to accommodate 1,500 cattle. At the maximum capacity, this ranch will accommodate up to 10,000 cattle being fattened at the same time.

Not only that, the Oloba Cattle Ranch would act as a breeding centre for a foreign breed of cattle known as the Boran, so as to develop a new breed of cattle that is indigenous to the South-West by cross-breeding the Zambian-Boran with local breeds such as the White Fulani and Sokoto Gudali.

The resulting cattle, it is expected, will have greater capacity to produce meat, making cattle fattening and beef production a very profitable endeavour for the state.

Ministry to import 173,000 tonnes of fertiliser

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HE Federal Government will import 173,000 tonnes of fertiliser to boost agricultural production next year.

According to a statement by Dr Olukayode Oyeleye, the Special Assistant to the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Dr Akinwumi Adesina, the importation would add up to the 260,000 tonnes to be produced locally by December.

“For fertiliser, although 610,000 tonnes are expected by December, records from the ministry show that 167,540 tonnes are available, going by feelers from those that

have responded to our inquiries on availability.

“We wrote to about 12 fertiliser companies and six of those that performed well have sent their stock position to us, on what they can produce between now and December.

“Efforts are already being made to import 173,000 tonnes and produce 260,000 tonnes locally by December,” the minister said.

Adesina also said the ministry had started ‘fast-track measures’ to increase food production through dry season planting before the end of year.

“This is to forestall food shortage following the flood disaster in many states of the country,” Adesina said.

To forestall the crisis, he said that the ministry had begun a ‘double-up farming’ to ensure rapid response and enhanced productivity.

He directed the directors to register farmers and assist those already registered on the platform of the Growth Enhancement Scheme (GES) for more food production.

Adesina spoke at a meeting with directors and heads of departments nof the ministry.

GRICULTURE accounts for a substantial aspect of Kebbi State’s economy.

Food crops include guinea corn, rice and millet while cash crops include groundnut and cotton.

Others are wheat, beans, tobacco, sugar cane, sweet potatoes and vegetables, such as onion, pepper and tomatoes.

Almost 75 per cent of the population make their living from farming. Many factors give Kebbi its competitive advantage in the agri-food sector.

The state boasts of rich a agricultural land. About 200,000 hectares of the land are fadama land, mainly on the flood plains of the Rima and Niger valleys.

The rest is upland, where season cultivation by mainly small farmers dominate. Agriculture continues to dominate the state’s economy. It is also the largest contributor to the state’ s coffers. Farming is mostly based on indigenous techniques, using local inputs of seeds, family and animal labour and informal credits.

Animal traction is used among the Kambari,Dukawa and Dakarkari. Indigenous forms of cultivation are, however, gradually giving way, as more farmers now use improved seed varieties, chemical fertiliser, formal credit facilities, ploughs and tractors.

Due to migration of family members, indigenous forms of farm labour also are gradually being replaced by hired labour.

Some farmers rear cattle, sheep and goats to augment their income.

These animals are fed with the stalk of grains, and leaves of legumes.For the most part, animals are grazed in the open field around the village and in the fadamas. Animal wastes are in turn used to manure the field.

Therefore, some form of mixed farming is practised. Most animal rearing is done by the Fulani who oscilate from north to south.

There are nine forest reserves in Kebbi, and there are pockets of ‘natural’ forests in the south and southeast,which yield forest resources such as wood, thatches, fruits as well as being sanctuaries for wildlife.

Already, the forests in the riverine areas of the state are exploited for wood, used in boat building at Yauri, while in the other parts of the state (around Zuru), the people use the wood in carving mortars, pestles and handles of various implements like hoes and knives.

Existing forest resources are, however, undersevere threat by animal grazing, bush burning and sourcing for fuelwood.

These have caught the t attention of the Kebbi State Ministry of Agriculture, and Natural Resources, the Kebbi State Afforestation Programme (KSAP) and the Kebbi State Environmental Protection Agency (KSEPA).

These agencies have pushed through various edicts to curtail the wanton destruction of forest resources. Furthermore, they have undertaken campaigns to improve the quality and number of forest reserves in the state.

Kebbi has abundant livestock which include cattle, sheep,

•Governor Usman Dakingari

By Daniel Essiet

goats, camels, horses, donkeys, pigs and poultry. A survey of livestock potential in the state.

The state ranks among the five with the highest number of livestock. It exports quite a substantial number to other parts of the country.

The importance of livestock in the economy of the state can be deduced from the number of slaughtered yearly. It is estimated that about 110,000, 152,000 and 211,000 cattle, sheep and goats are slaughtered yearly in the state. Thus hides and skins are an important livestock subsector.

The government has invested N1.6 billion in the IFAD-assisted Community-Based Agricultural and Rural Development Programme (CBARDP) in the last three years. The programme is being financed by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), with the federal, states and local government providing counterpart contribution.

The programme has helped youths to be self-employed by providing them with water pumping machines and boreholes to irrigate their crops.

An improved variety of cowpea and millet have been introduced to the beneficiaries by the Institute for Agricultural Research, Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), in collaboration with International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Ibadan,with a view to attracting buyers from Niger Republic.

The programme gave farmers improved varieties on cowpea and millet,which they call ‘wanke- IFAD’ and ‘dawaIFAD’. The farmers tried it and found it to be high-yielding and they have abandoned the old variety.

It has also boosted crop and livestock production with the provision of improved seeds and work bulls, among other support, he said. The focus of the government is to promote greater agricultural productivity, strengthen early warning and response systems and improve livelihoods.

To achieve these, the government works to facilitate the necessary changes in the agricultural sector and facilitate the transfer of best practices and technologies.

THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

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THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

SOS

INFRASTRUCTURE

SERVICE

Flood victims appeal to Uduaghan

Amaechi to rehabilitate roads

A harvest of projects

Delta

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Rivers

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

Enugu

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Email: news_extra@yahoo.com

Almajiris acquire skills in Katsina

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•Governor Shema

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HE Almajiri phenomenon is coming to an end in Katsina State, thanks to the effort of the Ibrahim Shema administration. Food and clothing are delivered to the children; they are also acquiring skills.

In Daura, an emirate in the state, Governor Shema has handed out food and clothing items to pupils of Qur’anic schools to keep them from begging on the roads.

Many are concerned that the Almajiri phenomenon is endangering the children, who are enrolled in Qur’anic schools but are often out on the streets soliciting alms and food.

From Isah Idris, Katsina

There are worries that their school environments are unsuitable and that their health is compromised. There is also concern on safety and moral issues. But the greatest worry is that not much has been done to help the children.

Shema has stepped in to address that challenge. He has started a pilot scheme with 70 Qur’anic schools in the state. Food and clothing are sent to those schools. The pupils are equally taught skills, on which to pro-

ductive lives upon graduation. With the success of the pilot scheme, the state government plans to replicate the effort in every Qur’anic school spread all over the state.

Many reckon that the scheme will not only help the pupils to acquire knowledge and self-improving skills, but will also fight poverty in the state, since many of the Almajiri children are from poor homes.

The Federal Government launched an Almajiris Integrated Boarding School Programme in Sokoto, designed to fuse western education into Quranic curriculum and be domesti-

cated in every northern states.

The Katsina pilot scheme, however, does not have the western education component, yet, but may do so in future depending on the success of the trial programme.

In driving the scheme, Shema has a dependable ally in Prof. Aminu Kado Kurfi, the state Commissioner for Education.

While flagging off the pilot scheme at Alarama Mallam Bello Qur’anic School, Shema revealed that the plan has been on the gov•Continued on Page 45

IT by flood and a rash of bomb blasts, fate has been unkind to Taraba State

lately.

No fewer than 19 persons died in the flood in the state, which swept through several parts of the country. About 12 people are still missing in the state, while 218 villages were wrecked by the waters in eight of its 16 local government areas. It is reckoned that 69,640 persons were directly affected in the disaster.

The affected local government areas are Ardo-Kola, Ibi, Wukari, Gassol, Lau, Karim-Lamido, Kurmi and Sardauna.

But as the people grieved, Jalingo, the state capital, was rocked by explosions, its fourth experience since the Boko Haram hostilities began. At least eight persons were injured in the blast in Mallam Joda, a rustic suburb of the state capital.

The bomb hit the usually quiet community just a day after another bomb rocked Dorowa, a 24hour bubbling ghetto in the spine of the capital city.

The victims included petty traders and commercial sex workers in the vicinity. Apart from the building, food, drinks, cigarette, kola-nut, condoms were ruined.

Eyewitnesses said a bomb was detonated at dusk time in a drinking outlet in Mallam Joda in the same fashion as the Dorowa incident.

Police posts and government structures had been the targets of terror attacks, but recently local brew bars, patronised by fun seekers, have become an attraction in the state.

Police spokesman in the state, Amos Alaoye, in a chat with Newsextra, said: “The state command has arrested some suspects who are in the custody, in connection with the bombings”.

Residents think some of the suspected bombers may live in the neighbourhoods, probably making their explosives locally.

Many residents have been living in fear since the area became a scene of bomb blasts.

Grappling with the security challenge in the affected districts has not been easy, it was learnt.

•Residents examine the scene of a bomb blast in Dorowa, Jalingo

Taraba grapples with flood, blasts Victims grieve as residents flee Jalingo

By Fanen Ihyongo, Jalingo

A government official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, told Newsextra how his younger brother may have foiled a bomb attack on his wife’s business joint. He said some suspected bombers first went to his wife’s drinking place but were not allowed to settle down by his

younger brother who said he noticed their unusual dressing and behaviour. No sooner had they left the place than the sound of a bomb blast was heard outside the shop.

The source said: “When I was returning home from work, my younger brother called me, saying that he has seen a strange person in my wife’s place. I asked him how strange the intruder was; he said they

looked like Boko Haram members, so he chased them away. He insisted I must come back quickly because they were afraid” “In less than 10 minutes before I could return, I heard a bomb explode close to my wife’s joint and the same person who was chased away by my younger brother was among the two people the youths arrested and handed over to the po-

licemen who rushed to the scene of the blast”.

The explosions have paralysed the Taraba state capital. The bustle that characterised Dorowa, for instance, has vanished. It is said with only N50, one could eat a plate of food in Dorowa and be satisfied.

But since the blasts, things have changed, said Agnes, a resident.

Dozens of persons have fled the state capital in the aftermath of the blasts. This is not good for a state •Continued on Page 14

THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

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Council trains 196 youths

Amaechi to rehabilitate roads

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N line with its transformation agenda, the Rivers State government will soon begin the rehabilitation of dilapidated roads in Port Harcourt, the state capital.

The state Commissioner for Works,Mr Victor Giadom, disclosed this in Port Harcourt while briefing newsmen.

He said that the project would begin immediately after the rains.

The commissioner said that due to the nature of the state’s landscape, he had instructed contractors handling the rehabilitation to use sharp sand instead of laterite for the foundation of the roads to guarantee their durability.

“Although this process is expensive due to the poor terrain, it is imperative for the ministry to apply the world best practices on road construction.

“I am optimistic we will complete the reha-

•Amaechi

Enugu seeks partnership on agric

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HE Enugu State government has said that it would partner the private sector to boost food production in the state.

The state Commissioner for Agriculture,Prof Martin Anikwe, said this in Enugu while declaring open a one-day farmers’ workshop on the use and application of liquid fertilisers (AG-ZYME), a product of Zenith Energy Enzymes Ltd. He said that government was no longer keen in subsidising agricultural inputs, but to allow the big players, input dealers and producers to synergise and ensure food sufficiency.

Anikwe said that government interference had affected food production activities in the state.

On the new liquid organic fertilisers, the

commissioner urged farmers to embrace the product as it would guarantee bumper harvests and food sufficiency.

“What we recommend actually is what we call an integrated nutrient management approach, where we use different kinds of nutrients to serve our crops and animals.

“So it is not fair to say that we should abandon every other type of fertiliser that we have been using in the market. ‘’All we are saying is that we should embrace A-Zyme. All of them have different kinds of merit, so we support all of them.’’

In his remarks, the National Vice President of All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Chief Ike Ubaka, said that the association would partner with government to educate its members on the new product.

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Rivers bilitation before the next rainy season,’’ Giadom said.

The commissioner expressed the hope that at the end of the rehabilitation, roads in the capital would be free from potholes.

Church marks seventh anniversary THE Revival Mountain and Miracle Ministries has kicked off activities marking its seventh anniversary on Monday. It will end on Friday, October 26 with an all night programme at 10pm till dawn. The time is 6:00pm to 8:30pm from Monday to Thurday and venue is 22, Martins Street, off Maidan,Agiliti Road, Mile 12, Lagos.

The host, Pastor Sam Olasinimi, said that the five-day programme is to seek the face of God for mercy and breakthrough.

Other guest ministers expected at the programme include: Dr. M. K. T. Adegbite; Prophet T. Aduragbemi; Prophet E. Oke and Pastor Paul Adewunmi.

•Governor Akpabio

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HE Abia State government will partner with MTN Nigeria to develop mobile rural clinic across the 17 local government areas of the state.

The state Commissioner for Health,Dr Okechukwu Ogah, made this known while de-

By Nneka Nwaneri

took turns to sensitise the traditionalists, who listened with keen interest.

Their population filled the entire town hall.

They were encouraged to pay attention to the teaching so as to avoid death resulting from over bleeding or infection.

The birth attendants were urged to be hygienic by washing their hands and avoid infections, as personal hygiene in the delivery process is also essential for saving lives.

They were encouraged by the medical instructors to sentitise pregnant women under their care on the need to eat foods rich in iron so that they can be adequately fortified for safe delivery.

Firm holds seminar for students

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OVERNMENT’s efforts towards improving the literacy level of the society received a boost last week when Julius Berger Nigeria Plc held a literacy seminar at the Surulere Senior Secondary School for senior students. The event was to encourage future writers and authors.

At the event, Mrs Chinyere Obi-Obasi, author of The Great Fall, spoke on the secrets of good writing.

Reeling off some of the qualities of a good writer, she said: “Some of the factors that make one become a good writer are being observant, being creative, having deep thought on issues, competence, reading voraciously, being inspired by some role models, being disciplined, having interest, being ambitious, developing critical ear, being a good listener, among others.

She further said that to be a good leader, one

By Duro Babayemi

should develop deep interest in writing, even as she added that the best time to write is in the night when the environment is less noisy.

Continuing, she said: “Nigerians are so eager to sow today and reap tomorrow. Writing requires patience.”

The Public Affairs Advisor of Julius Berger, Mr Clement Iloba said the event was part of the company’s corporate social responsibilities for communities across Nigeria.

Beneficiaries of the initiative are public secondary schools with record of excellence and a strong focus on achieving progress.

The Principal of the school, Mrs Folashade Arinola Ogunbekun thanked Julius Berger and Mrs Obi-Obasi for their contributions to the school. She prayed that God will continue to increase their knowledge. She advised students to study hard after the seminar.

•From left: Public Affairs Adviser, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Mr Clement Iloba; Mrs Chinyere Obi-Obasi; Principal, Surulere Senior Secondary School, Mrs Folashade Ogunbekun and Public Relations Officer, Lagos, Julius Berger, Miss Suzan Obi at the event PHOTO: BOLA OMILABU

HE Chairman, Mkpat Enin Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Mr Ephraim Akpan,has said that 196 youths would be trained in relevant fields in the oil and gas sector.

Akpan, who disclosed this in an interview with journalists at the council headquarters, said the youths would be selected from the 14 wards in the council.

He explained that 14 youths would be selected on merit from each of the 14 wards in the council, adding that the training would enable the youths to take advantage of the opportunities in the sector.

“We are poised to ensure that Mkpat Enin local government area participates actively in the oil and gas sector.

Abia partners MTN on health

Birth attendants re-trained NON-GOVERNMENTAL Organisation, (NGO), the Brown Button Foundation and Yinka Mafe Foundation has held training for traditional birth attendants in Shagamu, Ogun State. It distributed medical kits.

The NGO also organised free medical diagnosis and treatment to indigenes of the state, which coincided with the launch and presentation of the new Lawata Health Centre, Shagamu.

The birth attendants were trained on how they can help the doctors who are often busy with their schedules.

The Brown Button Foundation, led by its founder/CEO, Adepeju Jaiyeoba, a professional lawyer brought different medical doctors, who

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claring open the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) 2012 Physician Week in Umuahia.

Ogah said that the scheme would be launched by the Governor Theodore Orji, before the end of the year.

“Under the scheme, MTN would take up 18 Model PHC in the six local governments and run them efficiently for us for a given period of time.

“We are also partnering with national health insurance in the development of community health insurance scheme,’’ Ogah said.

He said that a pilot scheme of the health insurance programmes would start with some communities in Ohafia, Osisioma and Ukwa East local government areas.

Ogah said that the state was almost in the final stage of sealing a deal with the National Health Insurance Scheme for Abia civil servants to key into NHIS, adding that Orji would sign the MOU with NHIS. The commissioner, who reviewed government’s effort at boosting the primary, secondary and tertiary health system called on doctors to share the vision of government in moving the sector forward.

Akwa Ibom “We are committed to creating awareness for youth empowerment and providing infrastructural facilities in the area,” he said.

The council boss, however, bemoaned the absence of mathematics and English teachers in the local government area.

“We have reported the ugly situation to the relevant authorities, and we hope they will give urgent attention to the issue,’’ he said.

Emir advises parents on kid’s enrolment

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HE Emir of Hadejia,Jigawa State, Alhaji Adamu Maje, has urged parents and guardians in the state to enrol their children and wards in the western and Islamiyyah schools.

Maje gave the advice during the graduation of 21 students of Madarasatul Shaik Aliyu Harazimi Tahafizul Quran in Hadejia.

“The provision of basic education for children is the sole responsibility of the parents and guardians,’’ he said.

The Emir, who is also the Chairman, Jigawa Council of Chiefs, said the emirate councils would continue to give moral and financial support to western and Qur’anic education.

The emir described education as the key to human development.

In his speech at the occasion, the Chairman, Council of Islamic Clerics of Dutse Emirate, Shaikh Sulaiman Bamaina, congratulated the graduates of the school.

“I will urge you to continue to seek for more knowledge,’’ he said.

•From left: Mr Olasupo Shasore (SAN), Chairman, Law Recom; Mr Ade Ipaye, Hon Attorney General/Commissioner for Justice, Lagos State; Mr Gani Ali Safari, Chief Registrar, High Court of Lagos and Mrs Ade Adeyemo, Executive Secretary, Lagos State Law Reform Commission during Lagos State Law Reform Commission Stakeholders’ meeting on sentencingguideline held at Old Secretariat, Ikeja, Lagos PHOTO: ABIODUN WILLIAM

Help for kid heart patients

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ANU Heart Foundation, in collaboration with the Society of Performing Arts in Nigeria (SPAN) has concluded plans to raise fund for kid heart patients who need medical surgery.

According to the chairperson of SPAN Sarah Boulos, the society is collaborating with the Kanu Heart Foundation in order to save those who are suffering from the ailment.

This, she said, would take the form of a theatrical production tagged Star Art Stage and would be entitled: “Take Heart.” She dis-

NGO gets new executive

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• Hon.Dauda (left) and Hon Lapade at the inauguration

Council canvasses cleaner environment

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HE Chairman, Care-taker Committee of Ibadan North Local Government, Hon. Babatunde Idris Lapade has praised Governor Abiola Ajimobi for providing purposeful and vision-driven leadership in the state.

The council chief made the commendation while inaugurating the Skip Bins at the premises of the council secretariat.They were provided for the residents to keep the area clean.

Lapade said he was following Governor Ajimobi’s example to see that the lives of the residents are positively touched.

He said:“Skip Bins are made available so that refuse would not be disposed indiscriminately as these skip bins are placed in all strategic places in the council area of coverage.

“It would be an offence for anyone to dump refuse on the road in the local government area and that whoever flaunts the law would be prosecuted by environmental health officers.

“Before the present administration came on board, Oyo State ranked number one among the dirty states in Nigeria but with the effort of this government, the state is now among the neatest.

“The credit can only be given to the governor and that is what we are also working to achieve in our local government. I want to implore the entire people of the state to support the governor in his effort to make Oyo State great again.

Lapade also use the occasion to call on the state government to assist the council in evacuating the heaps of refuse at the Bodija market.

Speaking at the event, the state Commis-

By Jeremiah Oke

sioner for Environment and Habitat, Hon.Wasiu Dauda and Chairman, Oyo State Waste Management Authority, Engr Adebisi Adesina praised Hon. Lapade for his effort to keep the environment clean than ever before.

They called on other chairmen in the state to emulate Lapade in his quest to develop the council in every sector. They submitted that Hon. Lapade has continued to perform as a true disciple of Governor Abiola Ajimobi by following religiously his footsteps in the responsibilities of the restoration agenda of the Oyo State government.

NON-GOVERNMENTAL organisation (NGO), Rebuild Nigeria Initiative, has announced the appointments of new executives.

Among them are Dr. Kola Adeleke Adedoyin, who was named the Head of the National Directorate, Information and Communication Technology (ICT); Chief ‘Pegba Otemolu, South-West Zonal Coordinator; Hon. Semiu Babatunde, Coordinator, Ogun State.

Babatunde took over from Otemolu who was the state coordinator upon his elevation to the South-West Zonal Coordinator position.

They were appointed at the annual national conference of the body which was held last weekend at Nicon Luxury Hotel, Abuja.

The occasion, which was graced by top politicians, diplomats, technocrats and captains of industry, drew participants from the 36 states of the federation, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Speaking on the occasion, the National Coordinator of the organisation, Prince Hope RexLawson, urged the delegates to mobilise people in their various states to join the organisation as the state coordinators have been given membership cards, adding: “although the challenges ahead are daunting, they are not insurmountable.”

Women honour Chief Justice

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GROUP,Women in Successful Careers (WISCAR) ,recently hosted the Chief Justice of the Federation,Justice Aloma Mariam Mukhtar to a private dinner in Lagos to mark her appointment as the first female Chief Justice of the country .The venue was the WheatBaker Hotel in Ikoyi, Lagos.

The founder of WISCAR, Mrs Amina Oyagbola said: “The dinner was in recognition of her lifetime of hard work, exemplary leadership, thorough probity and consistent professionalism. In reaching the pinnacle of the Judiciary in Nigeria, she is a role model par excellence. We have decided to hold a dinner to celebrate not only Justice Mukhtar’s achievement of this milestone but most importantly her sterling qualities that have made the achievement possible.”

Renowned for standing on the side of the truth, Justice Mukhtar was the President of the National Association of Women Judges of Nigeria. In 2003 she was honoured by the

By Rita Ohai

International Association of Women Lawyers and in 2004 was conferred with the Fellowship of the Nigerian Law School.

Other guests at the event include: Hon. Mulikat Akande Adeoye, Majority Leader of the House of Representatives, Odein Ajumogobia, former Minister of Foreign Affairs and many accomplished legal practitioners, captains of industry and successful career women from different fields of endeavour.

WISCAR is a strategic mentoring network aimed at unleashing the largely untapped potential of women professionals in Nigeria.

Its vision is to institute a high level career and mentoring network for entry or mid career level professional women, and institute gender-friendly policies in organisations with the overall aim of developing women to build a better nation.

•The Public Relations Officer, Conference of the Methodist Church, Nigeria, Brother Aramide Tola Noibi (left) welcoming the Prelate of the church, Dr Sunday Ola Makinde to the Diocese of Lagos West’s third annual Festival of Hymns and Songs at Opebi, Ikeja Circuit Cathedral.

With them are the host bishop, Rt Rev Isaac Ayo Olawuyi and Lady Olulanu Ayoola.

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HE Chairman of Mushin Local Government Hon. Olatunde Adepitan has said that with research and education, the world has become a global village. He said this at the inauguration of an ultra-modern Library situated at Bishop Aggey by Da-silva street, Mushin.

According to the chairman, one of the ways to remove poverty and illiteracy is to create an atmosphere that will elicit curiosity in our youths as education has become an agent for development. “This library is an avenue for our youths to compete favourably with other youths in other developed societies.

“As a government, we have to come to realise that one of the ways to lure people out of poverty is to encourage them to go to school. This library is called Hybrid because a part shall be dedicated to Hardware’s while another side will be dedicated to software. The library will be I.T compliant so that our youth, children and the aged can learn new ideas and technologies with ease”.

He implored the well-to-do to invest in the library and equip it with modern facilities.

“The children that are not trained may end up being a big threat to those that are trained tomorrow. In other developed societies, people will a portion of their investments to public utilities like a library in order to enhance equity and even development “ Corporate organisations were urged to partner with the local government on the best possible ways to equip the library. The library can only meet its target audience when the neces-

By Biodun-Thomas Davids

closed that this would be premiered at the Ballroom of the Eko Hotel and Suites on Sunday, September 28, 2012.

Emphasising that, apart from educating the audience on the life-threatening heart condition called “dilated cardiomyopathy,” she said that the production is also aimed at raising funds for Kanu Heart Foundation to help take care of some heart patients. She said: “These funds would go a long way in providing the much- needed medical surgery for a child on the waiting list.”

In a letter signed by Jo Demmer, the Artistic Director, Star Art Stage Production, Gbenga Yusuf said that “Take Heart” “examines the problems confronting a couple who need to save their child whose survival depends on a heart surgery.”

In a chat with Newsextra, Boulos stressed that she was moving into this partnership as a result of an incident 12 years ago about a girl who donated her compatible heart to save her friend.

Boulos who described “art as a silent language that can be universally understood by everyone,” called on artists to learn from the girl by “re-defining their arts to reflect changes in the society.”

According to Yusuf, over 400 people, including children, youths, and parents are expected to watch the theatrical performance.

While the briefing lasted, Coordinator, Kanu Heart Foundation, Pastor Onyebuchi Abia, lamented that most Nigerians take the issue of their health with levity, even as he said that they do not feed well and do not go for constant health checks.

According to him, during their recently held free echo cardio-graphic test, among 150 checks carried out, 50 people were diagnosed with heart problems and other related diseases.

‘Education is agent for development’ sary modern facilities are provided.

“It is gratifying to note that many companies are very enthusiastic to support this noble idea.

If we only complain that youths are restive without providing a better alternative, this society may be stagnant. This government is using the

library is a better alternative to idleness poverty and development. We are still soliciting support and assistance.

We are still seeking expert advice, especially at the Lagos State University and other higher institutions.

•From left : Hon Adepitan; Dr Adetoun Idowu, Univeristy Librarian, Lagos State University (LASU) and the Council Manager, Mr Razaq Oladeji inspecting facilities at LASU library

THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

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COMMENTARY Comments

EDITORIAL FROM OTHER LAND

Trial and error

Celebration of faith • If we can emulate Ibrahim, the world would be a better place

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USLIMS worldwide celebrate today their greatest festivity of Eld-El-Kabir. The festival is the most essential in the Islamic Calendar. It falls on the 10th Dhul-Hyjah that equally coincides with the climbing of Mount Arafat during the annual holy pilgrimage to Mecca. This feast of sacrifice is unique for its spiritual implication and underlying divine commandment.

Muslims observe this age-long perennial ritual as a mark of absolute faith in almighty Allah, as exemplified in the slaughtering of animals, including cows, rams, goats and even camels. The feast is celebrated in commemoration of Ibrahim’s’s near use, as sacrifice, of his only son, Ismael, in total submission to Allah, consequent upon the pledge made to Him during Ibrahim’s needy days.

The Almighty was satisfied with and convinced about Ibrahim’s unalloyed faith in Him. He sent Angel Jibril at the nick of time to replace Ismael with a white ram, that was slaughtered in his stead.

With this act, Allah foreclosed the use of human being for any sacrifice, and such contemplation has been considered as barbaric in the spiritual and physical realms.

Ibrahim’s venerable decision to sacrifice his only son even at an old age, with little hope of having another remained the profundity of his faithful act. In Islam, submission to Allah is unqualified as typified by Ibrahim who did not compromise his faith during the several decades of his childlessness.

Today is the commemoration of that day when Allah tested Ibrahim’s faith in Him. The day remains so dear to true Muslims across the world. They will eat and merry with friends and well wishers.

More important to this great feast is our living together as brothers, with mutual benefits of harmony, peace and stability, and for the corporate too.

Islam as an all-encompassing religion embraces development, growth and progress. It spreads the gospel of love; it teaches peace; preaches tolerance; so does Christianity.

The unalloyed display of unity and love without religious impediments, witnessed today, should go beyond the moment. Such fraternity should not be for this festive season alone; it should be for all times so that our nation could grow from strength to strength: Also, on a broader scale, for the world to be a better place for all to live in, irrespective of race or colour of the skin. Father Ibrahim was a recipient of immense blessings because in obedience to Allah’s commandment, he obliged to use his only son as a sacrifice to Him before Allah stopped him.

In anticipation of such blessings, the people and the government should also be prepared to make inevitable sacrifices for the well-being of the country, during this occasion and beyond.

The country is still bogged down by unbridled insecurity arising from the activities of the Boko Haram sect. Lives and property are being wantonly

destroyed, all in the name of politics and or religion. Fuel scarcity and subsidy removal remain avoidable front-burner issues. These are all consequences of official hypocrisy which Islam absolutely abhors in domestic and public affairs.

Why should all these be taking place if we are all truthful to our pledge in the spirit of what Ibrahim did to almighty Allah? Those that are ingrained in destabilising the nation should disengage forthwith in the spirit of Sallah that is being celebrated today.

We seize today’s occasion of Eid-elKabir to call on all Muslims and nonMuslims to reflect on the tests of Ibrahim and also emulate his virtues so as to ensure the growth of our society and that of the entire world. Barka da Sallah.

‘Those that are ingrained in destabilising the nation should disengage forthwith in the spirit of Sallah that is being celebrated today. We seize today’s occasion of Eid-el-Kabir to call on all Muslims and nonMuslims to reflect on the tests of Ibrahim and also emulate his virtues so as to ensure the growth of our society and that of the entire world. Barka da Sallah.

Dollars at the airport • Where do people get such huge amounts from and why do they avoid the banking system?

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T is alarming that within three weeks the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) seized over $10.2m (N1.6bn) in Lagos alone, according to its Head of Operations, Mr Iliyasu Kwarbai. The most publicised of these seizures involved 24-year-old Abubakar Sheriff who was apprehended at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport with $7m (N1.1bn) as he boarded his flight en route Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), and more recently Akinyele Adetule, a security official of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), who was caught with $1.4m (N218m) at the same airport after beating security checks.

Although Sheriff was actually scheduled to fly, he had falsely declared

‘But there are other equally important posers. What is the source of such huge cash? Why would people choose to move such bulk cash out of the country without using the banking system? How come so much money is in the possession of some people in a society where poverty is so widespread? ...

Under the provisions of the Money Laundering Act, it is not sufficient to declare excess cash; the onus is on the person making the declaration to explain the source of the excess cash and the reason for the export’

that he had $4.5m on him, rather than $7,049,444, which was discovered after a search. He claimed that he was acting as a courier for 20 people who hired him to convey the money to Dubai. Adetule, on the other hand, was not an intending passenger, but used his official position as a FAAN worker to evade security points at the airport, with the aim of handing over the money to the yet-to beidentified owner at the boarding area. He said he was promised N10, 000 for the shady job.

“He was neither on duty nor on an official assignment,” his employers stated. Kwarbai said of him: “He wore his tag and was thus able to move freely in the airport without drawing suspicion.

He was carrying a bag and it went through the scanner. It is curious that such a huge sum went through the scanner undetected. Or was it a case of conspiracy and collusion?”

This question raised by the EFCC official is significant as the arrest seems to have confirmed suspicion that there are insiders who are members of syndicates operating at the airport. But there are other equally important posers.

What is the source of such huge cash?

Why would people choose to move such bulk cash out of the country without using the banking system? How come so much money is in the possession of some people in a society where poverty is so widespread? Travellers leaving the country are statutorily required to declare cash in excess of $10,000 (N1.56m).

However, under the provisions of the Money Laundering Act, it is not sufficient to declare excess cash; the onus is on the

person making the declaration to explain the source of the excess cash and the reason for the export. Against this background, it is worth mentioning that a Federal High Court in Lagos has ruled that Sheriff should forfeit 25 percent of the undeclared $2m to the Federal Government. But this judgment does little to uncover the origin of the cash and why the banking system was ignored.

The EFCC has noted that globally, bulk cash smuggling is usually associated with proceeds of crime and money laundering, and that legitimately earned funds are usually processed through the banking system. According to the agency, “Our experience in the last few years indicates an emerging trend of bulk cash smuggling to Europe, Middle East and North America with the attendant consequence for capital flight. Some Nigerian citizens are routinely arrested at airports in Europe and North America for currency smuggling, though no such arrests have been recorded in the Middle East. But in all cases, the money is lost as they are never repatriated back to the country.”

These incidents call for greater vigilance at our airports by the security operatives charged with the responsibility of tackling such wrongdoings. In addition, the authorities must ensure that all security personnel at the airports have the correct orientation to appreciate the lofty demands of their work, and shun the temptation to make fast money by aiding and abetting crime.

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N Italian court’s conviction of six scientists and an ex-official for giving inadequate information to the city of L’Aquila just before it was devastated by an earthquake has been compared with the papal condemnation of Galileo in 1633. The judge stands accused of ignoring the scientific truth that earthquakes cannot be predicted, and of seeking scapegoats to appease the embittered population.

To be fair to the court, this is a misrepresentation of its verdict. The magistrate acknowledged that earthquakes cannot be predicted.

However, he found the defendants had painted an overly reassuring picture to calm a panicking population. This position was taken after an official meeting held only a few days before the earthquake, and following months of tremors in the region.

The defendants could have been more cautious in their message. One of them stated on TV that there was “no danger” and explained that the tremors were a “favourable situation, that is to say a continuous discharge of energy”. This was scientifically incorrect. While a series of tremors is not normally followed by a disastrous quake, most scientists agree that a seismic sequence increases rather than reduces the probability of one.

There is clearly a case for the Italian authorities to review how the commission handled the situation. Whether politicians leaned on the scientists in order to influence their decision should also be investigated. But convicting the scientists of manslaughter was the wrong decision.

In the case of an earthquake, failing to communicate the risks appropriately to the population does not mean that the scientists are responsible for the deaths.

The court’s decision sets a dangerous precedent. On Tuesday, the head of Italy’s disaster body resigned in protest. In future, scientists could be reluctant to advise the government on how to deal with earthquakes and other natural disasters.

When they do, they may be inclined to issue alarmist warnings just to cover their backs. This would be expensive and could fuel unnecessary panic.

The appeal court would be wise to reverse this week’s decision. The courts should then concentrate on the many outstanding trials against those builders and engineers who failed to abide by building codes. The conduct of local politicians, so far untouched by the investigations, should also be scrutinised.

This would be a much better way to respond to the grievances of the citizens of L’Aquila.

– Financial Times

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THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

20

CARTOON & LETTERS

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IR: The planned visit of international tennis champions, Venus and Serena Williams to Lagos, Nigeria come October 30 to November 2 this year, is arguably a cheering one in the midst of the deluge of sad happenings that we have experienced in the country, in recent time. The Williams sisters, as they are fondly called, are due to visit Lagos exclusively as part of the Nigerian leg of their two-nation tour of Africa for the year. Only Johannesburg in South Africa and Lagos, Nigeria have been favoured as the preferred destinations of the amiable ‘’Queens of tennis.’’

Essentially, the Williams sisters’ visit to Lagos, which is on the platform of ‘Breaking The Mould’ (BTM) initiative, is aimed at inspiring, motivating and empowering Nigerian women and young people so that they can achieve their inner potential regardless of the obstacles on the way. Having gone through the crucibles of life, the duo provides a perfect fit for the task of motivating Nigerians to success as they exemplify how determination, passion, hard work and self-belief can turn dreams into reality, despite challenges. Considering the story-behind-the success story of the Williams, it is a natural thing to consider them as the 2012 international “mould breakers” having turned around

EDITOR’S MAIL BAG SEND TYPEWRITTEN, DOUBLE SPACED AND SIGNED CONTRIBUTIONS, LETTERS AND REJOINDERS OF NOT MORE THAN 800 WORDS TO THE EDITOR, THE NATION, 27B, FATAI ATERE ROAD, MATORI, LAGOS. E-mail: views@thenationonlineng.net

As Williams sisters visit Lagos the initial obstacles on their way to the top.

Ours is an environment where one keeps asking if it is possible to succeed in view of the prevailing negative forces around us. The contradictions are legion - high rate of youth unemployment, general insecurity, low standard of living, low educational standards, ethnic and gender discriminations among others. Despite facing similar situations, Venus and Serena Williams

prevailed over their obstacles to become true champions, an experience we can all share via the opportunity that Breaking The Mould initiative provides.

Like a larger percentage of us, the Williams sisters were raised in a lowly Compton town outside Los Angeles, United States of America by their humble parents. For the Williams, despite their busy schedule practising and competing on the tennis court, they still created

time to have proper education.

Having to experience the intrigues of being home-schooled by their mother, Venus and Serena graciously went through it and today, they have their high school diploma. Their sense of value for education notwithstanding their natural talents and abilities is a good lesson for our talented teens and youth who push aside their education in pursuit of their talents. Furthermore, the story of

Bank staff and the spate of robberies

S

IR: The relationship between the banks and their staff could be likened to that of father and his son. A son is supposed to follow his father’s advice and instructions religiously for his own good and that of the entire family.

Unlike father and son, banks are not biologically related with their staff but they are being employed to work and serve the customers with a view to making profit.

Consequent upon that, banks and their workforce are legally bound to protect the interest of their customers. Under this circumstance and in line with banking ethics, every staff is supposed to complete oath of secrecy form every year. The essence of this is to make sure that all aspect s of their customers’ transactions with the bank are kept secret from the public. The scenario helps to create a conducive atmo-

sphere for a smooth banking transaction between the two parties, as customers confidence is boosted the more once they know that their interest is protected.

The spate of bank robberies in the country calls to question the issue of banks’ observance of relevant protocols before employing their staff. Bank robbery cannot happen just like that; for there is no smoke without fire. Banks need to be for-

Benue politicians should close ranks

S

IR: In Benue State, a lot has gone wrong as a result of irreconcilable differences between the main actors in the politics of the state. As things are today, these gladiators are like parallel lines that will never meet and the consequence is the backwardness of the state. Until proper reconciliation is carried out between the main political actors, nothing tangible would come to the state that is yearning for total transformation.

It is sad to note that Benue State

Venus and Serena is a major boost to the breaking of the age-long stereotype that branded the girl-child or women generally as ‘weaker sex’. The Williams sisters have forged ahead to write their names on the sands of time, making history and breaking new records.

Today, the duo has won several laurels and grand slams titles.

The enigmas called Williams sisters are a catalyst for Nigerians across age and class to expand their horizon, come out of the moulds and begin to function in more than a singular mould-cast of their chosen career and aspirations. Our world is a place of unlimited opportunities where enable every man and woman can fully maximize his or her hidden potential.

• Efe Eguko Lagos.

which has been in mainstream of Nigerian leadership since independence and has produced prominent sons and daughters that have made their marks in the development of the nation is now in the doldrums politically.

Among them is former Speaker of the House of Representatives during the Shehu Shagari administration, Benjamin Chaha Biam; former Senate Presidents Iyorchia Ayu and Ame Ebute; ex-chief of defence staff during the Obasanjo administration, General Victor

Malu (rtd).

The state also produced seasoned technocrats like Tiley Gyado, Denen Tofi etc.

In politics, names of eminent politicians like Senator Joseph Saawuan Tarkaa of blessed memory, founder of United Middle Belt Congress (UMBC), Chief Obande Obeya, Wanteregh Paul Unongo, Senators George Akume, Barnabas Gemade and David Mark and Governor Gabriel Suswam readily comes to mind.

Despite producing these eminent

citizens, one thing that is lacking and that has hindered the progress of the state is unity among them.

The suggestion has grown that the people of Benue State, especially the elite, are enemies of themselves. The elite must urgently reconcile themselves and focus on the development of the state. They must forget their political differences and pursue the virtue of selfless service to the state. The time for the reconciliation is right now!

• John Akevi, Nitel Qtrs. Bauchi.

tified in this area as no bank robbery is possible without an insider divulging information to the robbers. Banks should fortify themselves against this phenomenon by recruiting those with unquestionable characters in their outfit. They should insist that their employees, both new and old, get reference from persons of good repute. And these referees should be invited for interview. They should lay more emphasis on this than on entry qualification, since no graduate no matter his or her discipline can just come into the bank and start working without being guided.

Banks should also encourage their staff to enrol with the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria, which is the body that insist on the good conduct of their members.

• Nkemakolam Gabriel Port Harcourt, Rivers State ERROR: Yesterday, we ran an opinion article headlined, ‘Wamakko and oil subsidy money’ on page 22, wrongly attributed to Lisa Olu Akerele. The writer is Mohammed S. Umar, president, Sokoto Liberal Democrats Media Foundation. The error is regretted.

THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012 16

21

COMMENTS

Readers’ parliament 21 • The end 1 and 2

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IR Ololade, the picture you paint in your “The End 1” is too scary but true. Like a movie, you recreated the dreadful pictures of the civil war and the horrors that television brought into our living rooms from other lands. Shall we be allowed to see 2015? And will they allow us elect the ones you envisaged? I am waiting for the second part! E.U. Ukairo.

FSTC Uromi, Edo state.

07032345312.

Only pain! Only misery! Only five years of hell as a graduate in Nigeria. Only hope and prayer that this prophecy is averted because it will be bloody. But that’s what satan their master want from us.

Maybe it’s a necessary evil. Phillip.

08033817094.

Mr. Ololade, are you a prophet because I can see you are seeing a vision in “The End (1).” Do we need to sit down and watch those things happen? Chinedu Osumili.

08130239474. UNN. Hi, Olatunji, just read your article: “The End 1” and it is a terrific read. I look forward to your articles. Very firebrand and passionate. Thumbs up. 08180661079.

Re: The End (2); fine piece. It frightens me that I am not the only one thinking along these lines.

Akinyode. 08033705338.

Behold Nigeria’s Nostradamus!

You sound between a prophet and a perfect prognosticator. I have been keenly following your lamentation right from “The End 1.”

Do we need to go to the planets to

A

verify the authenticity of the truths that are tormenting you to explosion? You are speaking of what even our western neighbours know as the inevitable truth. But you err by aiming straightforward for the truth. Winston Churchill said you don’t do that. I however encourage you to keep on telling the truth. Soji Ojediran. Ibadan.

08063939858.

Did Jonathan read the piece titled: “Farewell Umaru, Jonathan has come to us at last” of May 14, 2010? The answer is “no!” I think the Egyptians are more politically conscious than the oppressed Nigerians. PDP and Jonathan are one ideologically. Thank you. Amos Ejimonye. Kaduna. 08039727512.

Sir, I am a passionate reader of your “Reality Bites” indeed. And I must commend your journalism prowess and equally pray for you not to be lured by better pay to the presidency like some people we know. 07067416008.

I love your “Reality Bites” column. No doubt that a thoughtful and committed group of people can re-strategize Nigeria and give voice to the silenced. 08062704585.

We are very bad people (1) Your analysis is correct. Some parents are boastful of their ability to purchase seats for their wards to cheat at JAMB and SSCE centres.

It is sad to see what our country has degenerated to. God will help us. 08023137600.

I wish you continue with this line of write-up. You strike a definite

S a child, I read about gladiatorial shows and public executions of slaves, criminals and Christians in ancient Rome with great fear and trepidation.

Rome was a prosperous and great warrior state that controlled the whole of the Mediterranean basin and almost the entire North-western Europe. But anytime I remember ancient Rome, I remember their murderous games and this always overshadows the prosperity and excellent system of government of the Roman Empire.

Recently, ancient Rome literally resurrected in Aluu, a community that borders the University of Port Harcourt. There, four University of Port Harcourt students were gruesomely murdered under very baffling circumstances. Indeed, it was a murderous game because spectators cheered as the mob descended on the students. Anybody watching the footage of the Uniport 4, paraded naked with their bodies soaked in blood before they were eventually clubbed and burnt to death will feel very sorry for our dear country. And like Rome, this incident may haunt Nigeria forever.

I have listened to various versions of the story. First, the boys were accused of stealing phones and laptops. Some say they were serial rapists who terrorised the community in the preceding four months. Another version says the students were indeed cultists who had intimidated Aluu and adjoining communities for a long time. And that at the time they were apprehended by the vigilance group, they had dangerous weapons in their possession. There is even yet another ridiculous account which says that the boys actually went to recover debt from their debtor who smartly turned the table against them.

Whatever the reason, the plain truth is that the Uniport 4 represented hope and the future, not just for their respective families and their communities but for the entire country. So for whatever reason, this is a needless death that should have been avoided. And this sordid act should be condemned by all men of goodwill.

I understand Aluu and some neighbouring communities had been under siege for some time now. In fact, the state of insecurity within

chord in our psychology and sociology with the message. I wake everyday with these foreboding realities of the basic Nigerian psyche. I fear for the future of this race and generation…I totally agree with your thesis.

08054967602.

Excellent piece of writing. I agree with you 100 per cent. We need to change ourselves because we are indeed very bad people.

08079890367.

Thanks a lot dear. You did very well in your piece. May God bless you with more knowledge and wisdom. Amen. 08063675643.

Olatunji, what you are saying cannot be disputed. What has eluded us is the way out of the quagmire. Cyril Chinweike Eze. 08037907122.

I have never read a more honest description of you and me. We are very horrible people. Ehimare Ehoho. 08081322995.

You said it all. We are indeed very bad people. None could be worse. Barrister Obi Anierobi.

08031157593.

Olatunji, I like your write-up. Let us be accountable for all our actions, let us stop blaming our leaders. An average Nigerian man is a criminal. Zuby from Port Harcourt.

08051603828.

Your article is a very good one.

Unfortunately you are talking to people who have long chosen the path of amorality. The assertion that the followership is as bad as the leadership is true. But in all climes, it is the leadership that sets the pace either for moral degeneracy or righteous living. The theory of the vital few cannot be wished away. The elites, opinion moulders and policy formulators

who develop the framework for policy implementation and are supposed to enforce compliance are the first culprits. No society has only good people; what deters people from wrongdoing is the arm of the law which is supposed to be enforced by the leaders. That’s why foreigners come to Nigeria and beat traffic lights. Let’s get good leaders and things will fall in place. Etokowoh Owoh Uyo. AKS. 08037975031.

Your ability to put reality in pure perspective is outstanding. Until Nigerians move away from pretence, egoism, deceit, avarice, hate, etc, I wonder where our religious disposition will take us. Paul Vingil. Abuja. 08035880838.

Mr. Olatunji Ololade, your write up, ‘We are very bad people (1),’ I must confess, is the best write-up ever in this morally bankrupt and unholy entity called Nigeria. More of it, please, my brother. They will surely meet the people’s justice in 2015. May God keep more of your type for the battle ahead. Henry Oputa esq, Port Harcourt.

08033125515.

We are very bad people (1) says it all. Keep telling the truth. You are superb. Kehinde Olalemi.

07063504030.

Tunji my brother, I totally agree with you. I fully understand your angst. Our society is largely populated by monkeys and baboons in human garb, primitive in thinking and bestial in deeds. I have never seen or heard of a society so depraved as ours. Until we, as a people, embrace those things that are truly important in life and jettison the mindless and blind accumulation of vanities, we are eternally doomed as a people spiritu-

ally and naturally. Gerard Ifeanyichukwu Okonkwo. Onitsha.

08023656124.

What do you have to say about the south-east of the country where people are kidnapping fellow human beings including new born babies in the name of money? And all of us claim to be Christians.

08160149957.

Olatunji Ololade, since I was born in this feeble but very wicked and perverse country that is called Nigeria in 1953, I have never discerned anybody’s heart like I’ve just did yours…having gone through your humble and earnest dispositional topic, I thought I were you but of course, I’m not. This is to erase the unscrupulous position of the doubting Thomases that will oppose your write-up in anyway because Nigeria is just simply negative to the core. I’m in this position because some agents of negativity will want to counter the message of good people to this. They will want to smother this great message by which you teach all of us about how bad and wicked we are in this hopeless and worthless country we live in that is called Nigeria…A people that hails criminality are very bad people. A people that condones wicked preachers that pray for government officials who steal public money are very bad people. A people who allow their previous leaders to walk the streets with their loots, even after these leaders have lost immunity are very bad people. A people that have made their generation a thieving one are very bad people.

08036925729

‘Uniport’ 4 and state police imperative

By Dakuku Peterside the area had deteriorated so badly that the people had resorted to self-help.

Consequently, they formed vigilance groups’ with absolute powers and the death of these boys is a direct consequence to that illadvised move. Therefore, to all intents and purposes, Aluu was actually a disaster waiting to happen. But should this brand of jungle justice be visited on the Uniport 4 in the first instance? Again, are we such a depraved people? Where are the good men of Aluu? This is definitely not what I know of Aluu, a once peaceful neighbourhood. Did they just watch while evil was perpetrated or were they simply intimidated?

Security is at the centre of this latest national calamity and we must not pretend about it.

The Aluu incident is clearly a failure of state security apparatus to arrest a deteriorating security situation that prevailed in the town for several months leading to frustration by the people who resorted to self-help. It was indeed the failure of the police to rise up to the occasion as the crime under consideration took at least two hours to accomplish. This failure drew substantially from Nigeria Police obsolete equipment, lack of modern communications gadgets and a slow response time that compounded the already bad situation, issues we have canvassed severally with no one willing to listen.

Quite expectedly, most of the eyewitness accounts alleged that while the murderous game was going on in Aluu, two patrol vehicles of the Nigeria Police were sighted around the scene, yet their presence did not make any difference. A source I do not doubt even claim that police patrol vehicles pulled over at the scene and left without offering any assistance to save an embarrassing situation.

But I have a personal fear for our country and I wish to express it. If what happened in Aluu could happen in Rivers, a model state in terms of security, then we must seriously

guard against the fire next time. For those knowledgeable in security circles, Rivers State represents excellence in security management and hope for the common man.

For too long, we have been dancing on the edge, and it appears we are all waiting helplessly for an avoidable accident to happen. A few weeks ago, we were all confronted with the horror from Mubi, a polytechnic town in Adamawa State. Over 40 young and promising students were murdered in one fell swoop and everybody seems to be looking for answers in the same direction. No clues yet and it does not seem to bother us.

If the provision of security and welfare of the people as enshrined in the constitution are essentially the primary duty of any government, which of course includes state governments, then the issue of central policing must be revisited.

For me, these are warning signs and we cannot afford not to heed. Today, we are witnessing very strange occurrences in our country and we must rise to the occasion.

Those who opposed state police yesterday for some reasons are beginning to see the need for further dialogue.

The arguments against state police usually dissolve in the face of logic. Police cannot be a platform for national integration and this must be emphasised. And around the world, there are not too many examples of successful policing federal states. Antagonists of state police are also quick to cite concentration of power on one single man (the governor), discriminatory tendencies, interstate rivalry and even jungle justice like the macabre dance in Aluu. Ironically, what happened in Aluu would not have happened if there was state police.

Strangely, the advantages of state police far outweigh its disadvantages. The truth is that the federal police as constituted today lack capacity and resources and it is too bureaucratic. These also explain why they are easily overwhelmed.

I think some Nigerians are beginning to

appreciate the fact that a state police will be well funded. There is also the advantage of capacity building. There will be enough manpower and this will engender healthy rivalry. Adequate knowledge of the territory and quick response to distress calls are also possible because policemen are indigenes of the state and the environment is well known to them.

I know that despite these advantages, abuse could still occur. That is why a mechanism of control should be instituted at the centre to subordinate to some extent, the activities of the state police.

If we achieve the clamour for state police, a measure of frustration will leave our state governors who will then truly act as chief security officers. After all, governors will not be governors forever; they will leave someday and like every other member of society, will be subject to same laws. If while serving as governor they abuse the powers of the office, natural laws will catch up with them. More so, over time, the regulation of state police will be refined and perfected.

• Peterside, a member of the House of Representatives is Chairman, House Committee on Petroleum Resources, Downstream.

‘If the provision of security and welfare of the people as enshrined in the constitution are essentially the primary duty of any government, which of course includes state governments, then the issue of central policing must be revisited’

THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

22

COMMENTS ‘Do what you feel in your heart to be right for you’ll be criticized anyway: You’ll be damned if you do, and damned if you don’t.’

———Eleanor Roosevelt (1884 - 1962).

T

HE governorship election in Ondo State has come and gone but its reverberations are being felt across the country. From whatever prism, the victor won by simple majority even though victory is victory (see Emmanuel Aziken, Vanguard Newspaper of Sunday, October 21, 2012).

Majority of the accredited voters voted against the incumbent governor of Ondo. That says a lot about the governor’s acceptability profile.

But my instinct as a columnist tells me that the election, to a reasonable extent, was free and fair and the important thing is that Ondo people have spoken. That is the majesty of democracy.

However, the outcome of that Ondo election has led to outpours of resentful verbiage against the Action Congress of Nigeria and in particular, its most prominent national leader and former governor of Lagos State, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Expectedly, the media has been using that loss by ACN in that governorship election to get at Tinubu, who, hate or love him, has played a significant role in liberating the south-west people from the yoke of reactionary elements.

The negative outcome of the election, no doubt, gives those who hate Tinubu’s political gusto impetus to launch virulent media invectives against him, making most times spurious claims against the man. The question is: Would these set of people be writing against the man if the pendulum of victory had swung in the direction of ACN? The answer is absolute no!

Whoever attains the lofty height that Tinubu has attained in the leadership hierarchy of this country must expect the type of vilification that the man, popularly called Asiwaju, is passing through today. Whatever his shortcomings as a politician, the man has proved, beyond every living Nigeria of today that he is a risk taker, and in life, it is trite that anyone that would not take risk cannot go far. Even writing this is a risk to me too. Tinubu has proved to be a hater of injustice. Before those that are up in arms crucify Tinubu, they must realise that there are so many political battles that the man fought which but for God and him, the victims would have been history today.

Two examples will suffice here. In 2006 when former President Olusegun Obasanjo moved against his deputy, Atiku Abubakar, none of

I

F anyone needed evidence that President Goodluck Jonathan panders unduly to the North, the recent sale of the Nigeria’s power plants is sufficient proof. While one may not begrudge them their ‘good fortune’, what galls most other Nigerians is that some of the people from the North would still not be appeased. If bombs are not going off, uniformed security personnel and innocent people are being gunned down at will, for no just cause. If it is not senators of the Federal Republic being accused of aiding and abetting this senseless carnage, it is former governors or other members of the privileged elite.

Perhaps the only condition for peace is for the rest of us to scurry across the border into the hills of the Cameroons, and the hinterlands of Benin and Togo? Almost everything we have in Nigeria has been conceded to the North yet it won’t be appeased.

First, the recent sale of Nigeria’s electricity distribution companies by the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) shorn of the technical details and the little devils inherent in them, one must say that the broad ground norms required for fair and equitable bidding process are flawed. If we are privatizing, let it be truly private and competent companies (not transferring from federal to state governments); no private company should get more than one facility(they should build more in the future if they are so capable); no former head of state should be allowed to buy utilities they were instrumental to their failure.

But what did BPE do? It allowed state governments to throw in all sorts of bids by proxy; thus while some states won, some did not win.

That is bound to breed rancor. Second, it allowed a company chaired by former Head of State, General Abdulsalam Abubakar (rtd) to bid. Now Abubakar’s firm, Integrated Distribution Marketing a Company (IDMC) did not only bid, it got the three biggest facilities in the North, East and West. This is utterly unacceptable. The North will never accept this inequitable arrangement. Even the gentleman governor of Anambra State well known for pandering to the dictates of the Presidency raised his voice saying the action was ‘shocking’. Says Obi: “It was more shocking because Akwa Ibom, Cross River and Bayelsa succeeded, but the South-Eastern states totally lost out.”

Yes, the South-East seems to always lose out in everything especially in this dispensation.

South-East has the worst power facilities in

Before we crucify Asiwaju….

•Asiwaju Bola Tinubu the governors with same executive powers in Nigeria had the temerity to openly voice out their opposition against the oppressive conduct of Obasanjo that stand in his path to realise his ambition for tenure elongation. Atiku was even declared persona non grata in his home state of Adamawa. But he protected Atiku to the admiration of reasonable Nigerians. Were Tinubu to be the ‘selfish overtly ambitious’ man that hack writers against his person would want to portray him as, he would not have done that.

Not long after Atiku got over the problem, he immediately ditched Tinubu and the rest is history today.

Another example was that of former governor of Oyo State, Rashidi Ladoja. Obasanjo in his typical kangaroo fashion masterminded his removal from the top seat of that state. He became an outcast but the humane instinct in Tinubu made him to bail the man out without making any fuss about the matter. Ladoja was

surreptitiously sheltered in Lagos, provided with security and all the compliments associated with office of a governor. He was provided a legal team that fought his battle in court until he was reinstated as governor by the appellate court. One doubts if Ladoja can publicly say that Tinubu has ever made any outrageous demand from him. Today, he is the anchor man of Accord Party in Oyo which incidentally is currently governed by the ACN. These two men, Atiku and Ladoja were in the ruling PDP then, not Tinubu’s Action Congress Party. So, could this selfless humane disposition towards the underdog and the oppressed in the society be said to be another ambitious political conquest mission?

Tinubu by any standard could not be described as a man that lacked before getting to, or after leaving power. But when the whirlwind of PDP swept across the southwest except Lagos under his control in 2003, he selflessly took it upon himself to fight the political battle. By this year, the man in collaboration with Chiefs Bisi Akande, Segun Osoba and Lam Adesina ensured that the southwest except Ondo have returned to the grip of the progressives. He helped Adam Oshiomhole of Edo state, Ibikunle Amosun in Ogun state, Abiola Ajimobi in Oyo, Rauf Aregbesola and Kayode Fayemi of Osun and Ekiti states respectively to become governors.

Neither has the governor of example, Babatunde Fashola of Lagos complained to anybody publicly too!

These governors are no fools to be dictated to by anybody. None of them have publicly come out to say that Tinubu ever tried to rule their states for them. Why then is the needless fuss

EXPRESSO STEVE OSUJI

SMS O8181624757, email:steve_osuji@yahoo.com

Southsouth in government, North in power, yet… the land. What about road network, federal presence, not to mention the vexatious state and local government allotment deliberately skewed to eternally hurt the South-East. But we digress.

What the BPE led by Mr. Atedo Peterside has done in doling out all the key power distribution companies to Gen. Abubakar, we dare say, is an extension of the appeasement of the North which has gone on so rather nauseatingly under the Jonathan Presidency. The result is that while Jonathan is in government, the power and influence in all arms of government are firmly secured in the North. The South-East and the West are the sorry losers.

Let us take a quick roll call: barring the president himself, the next five positions down the pecking order of protocol in our federation today is held by the North viz; vice president, senate president, speaker of the House of Representatives, chief justice of the federation, attorney-general of the federation. It must be put on record that this is unprecedented in the history of Nigeria. Thus apart from having a leg in the Presidency, they control the National Assembly and the judiciary effectively. It is particularly overwhelming in judiciary as the North also heads the Court of Appeal, the High Court and indeed all other positions down the judiciary chain.

The North also dominates most of the strategic positions in the land. In defence, it holds the defence minister’s slot, the Chief of Defence Staff, the National Security Adviser and

the inspector-General of Police; three most important position in the security and defence of any nation. These are complemented with headship of the Customs, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, (NDLEA), the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, (EFCC), and the Ministry of Internal Affairs. Other key positions held by our brothers from the North include governor of the Central bank of Nigeria,(CBN), headship of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, (NNPC), and chairmanship of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, (FIRS), Petroleum Trust Development Fund, (PTDF), Nigerian Ports Authority, (NPA) and the Pensions Commission, (PENCOM). There are so many other no less important positions like headship of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), Education Trust Fund (ETF), the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and the Independent National Electoral Commission, (INEC), among others.

We must state it clearly that there is no prejudice whatsoever towards the various gentlemen and ladies occupying these important positions; most of them are well qualified for the positions they occupy and most important, some of the positions are elective and hierarchical. In fact there is no grudge towards the North over what can be considered their good fortune; what we say is that they must appreciate that they have the upper hand in the polity today, they must do a lot more to contain the raging violence in their part of the

by Tinubu’s political adversaries that his determination to win Ondo from Mimiko was informed by his determination to extend the frontiers of his territorial conclave?

The way Atiku and Ladoja from the PDP and others came to Tinubu was the way Governor Olusegun Mimiko came to him for help during the period of his political tribulation when trying to retrieve his earlier mandate from the PDP electoral marauders became difficult. The battle was fought, won and promises made were later jettisoned when Mimiko got to power.

The fact that Mimiko won the last election should not detract from the issue of Mimiko’s treachery that some are shamefully celebrating.

A treacherous mind, no matter the resources at his disposal cannot be a dependable servant of the people. Mimiko would only know his true poor ratings in the court of public opinion after he leaves power. Whatever accolade is being showered on him today is typical of howling from power grovellers, always taking side with whoever controls the lever of power, abandoning him, the moment he loses it. Time will tell.

Winston Churchill, war-time Premier of Britain once said: ‘Criticism may not be agreeable, but it is necessary. It fulfils the same function as pain in the human body. It calls attention to an unhealthy state of things.’Following from this is the fact that there are lessons to be learnt from issues emanating from the various media critics of ACN and Tinubu. The party must embark on compulsory self appraisal cum cleansing process. The fact that mostly what the party and its leadership are accused of, also happen in other parties, should not be an alibi. As the current bastion of progressive politics, ACN and leadership could not afford to do things the usual way, not when public perception is not in its favour.

Tinubu deserves no damnation from anyone for embarking on the Ondo journey if that was his conviction. He wants economic integration and entrenched democratic institutions for the entire southwest. Ondo under Mimiko is lagging behind, their voting for Mimiko on October 20 notwithstanding. Eleanor Roosevelt (1884 - 1962), former American First lady once said: ‘Do what you feel in your heart to be right - for you’ll be criticized anyway. You’ll be damned if you do, and damned if you don’t.’

History will definitely vindicate Tinubu and rightly puts Mimiko where he belongs, not where he is being erroneously allowed to stand at the moment.

country. They must also remember that when the fortunes change tomorrow and the pendulum swings to other parts of the country, they should show equal magnanimity and the desired equanimity. They must remember that equity and justice are the bases of peace in any society.

LAST MUG(S): why is NASS hounding Oteh? The story of the delectable Ms Arunma Oteh, the director-general of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), is well known to enlightened Nigerians. After exposing the corruption of members of the Committee of the House of Representatives who deigned to be probing her activities at SEC, the members of the National Assembly would not give her a breathing space. The fact that the lawmakers probing her office compromised themselves, insisting that she must be dismissed sounds like sour grapes. The fact that they could not establish any solid case of corruption against her and the fact that the Presidency which appointed her still finds her worthy of that seat, the wise thing for our law makers to do is to back off for the moment. Well, they are allowed to have their searchlight quietly trained on her if they insist on their vendetta by all means. They should look for something better to do and allow the executive do its job.

Gov. Fashola’s mishandling of the Okada riders: does the Lagos State Government know the number of commercial motorcycle riders in Lagos state? Is there any unit or department of government managing this huge block of an economic unit? Did anyone do a thorough analysis of the cost of taking this group off the Lagos roads? Apart from the huge opportunity to be tapped from this horde of hapless city transporters if we looked carefully, it is disheartening that the LASG is growing into the habit of throwing ill-digested laws at the people; laws motivated by anger and intent to punish punishment are often flawed laws.

Laws should not distabilise, frustrate and damage people, it should on the other hand, support the populace, cooperate with them and enrich their lives. What callousness informed the crushing of the property, the basic livelihood of the lowliest class? What manner of law permits us to confiscate and crush other people’s property? We must rethink such a law.

LASG must show more rigour and humanness in managing a social ferment manifesting as okada.

AFRICAN CUP OF NATIONS

INJURY SCARE

Keshi unfazed with draw

Yobo may miss Nations Cup

Pg. 24

Pg. 41

Sport Friday, October 26, 2012

PAGE 23

AHEAD AFCON 2013

Eagles to camp in

Zimbabwe N

IGERIA will still train in Zimbabwe for the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) even though they are in a first round group in Nelspruit, which is closer to Mozambique.

The team have proposed a final training camp in Zimbabwe, but Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) officials had hinted MTNFootball.com that

Mozambique could be considered were the Eagles to be drawn in Nelspruit.

“The team’s final training camp will still be in Zimbabwe even though they are now in Group C in Nelspruit, which is by the Mozambique border,” a top team official told MTNFootball.com.

“Besides the weather conditions, other things have

been considered before the training base was picked.”

Coach Stephen Keshi also plans a two-week training stint in Europe for players from the domestic league.

Nigeria has already confirmed a friendly against Venezuela in Miami on November 14, while several other warm-up matches against the likes of fellow 2013 AFCON finalists, Angola are also on the table.

24

41

NATIONSPORT FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

NATION SPORT

NATION SPORT

F/ Eagles’ star on trials at Maccabi Tel Aviv

F

LYING EAGLES’ midfielder, Ugonna Nnadozie Ezenwaka will today begin one week trial with Isreali giant Maccabi Tel Aviv following an invitation letter sent by the club.

The 18-year-old midfielder who was part of John Obuh's team in a four nations tournament in South Africa some months ago will be seeking to pen a deal with the club after the one week trials.

The letter of invitation sent by the club stated that: "We officail invite the Nigeria player, Mr Ugonna Nnadozie Ezenwaka to get impression of the club to pass few medicals test. In case

By Innocent Amomoh the player can pass all the medical test Maccabi Tel Aviv will begin the negociations with the agent about the player."

And according to a close brother to the player Stephen Orizu who plies his trade in Turkey disclosed authoritatively that the former Ocean Boys ace has stormed Isreal for one week trial and hopeful of making permanent deal at the end.

"Maccabi Tel Aviv has sent an invitation to my cousin Ezenwaka and has left on Tuesda night to team up with the club immediately," said Stephen who is aiming to set Turkey

on fire.

"I was aware of the planning and I pray that he make it real. I don't need to tell you how good he is, but you can ask his national team coach for that."

If Ezenwaka passes the trial, he will be joining Vincent Enyeama in the club payroll.

•Ezenwaka

Siasia celebrates ‘easy’ AFCON draw

F

ORMER SUPER Eagles’ Coach, Samson Siasia has described the Group C of the 2013 Africa Nations Cup having Nigeria, the defending Champions Zambia, Burkina Faso and Ethiopia as a good draw by any standard for Super Eagles of Nigeria.

"Its a good draw instead of being pitched against Cote d' Voire or Ghana. I think we should be able to top this group and qualify to the next stage of the tournament.

"I know Nigeria could have a good tournament in South Africa with good preparations. The Coach (Stephen Keshi) has the material I mean good players that can deliver the goods with good preparation

From Segun Ogunjimi, Abuja and support from everybody", Siasia told NationSport.

Other top Nigerian football stakeholders have also tipped Nigeria to qualify easily from the group. Below is their reactions after the draws Wednesday night.

NFF Chief Media Officer Ademola Olajire was more spiritual." We thank God for this good draw. Its a good draw but it doesn't mean that we should go to sleep with two eyes closed. Every team that qualified for this finals is a good opposition and must not be treated with kid gloves. We must step up our preparations and the players must have the mind set to

Eagles won't underrate AFCON opponents—NFF

T

HE Nigeria Football Federation(NFF) has warned the Super Eagles against looking down on their Group C opponents: Zambia, Ethiopia and Burkina Faso if they want to advance beyond the first round.

The NFF's Chief Media Officer, Demola Olajire in a brief chat with SportingLife shortly after the draws held in Durban, South Africa noted that though the senior national team got a balance draw added

•Maigari

From Tunde Liadi,Owerri

H

EAD COACH of the Super Eagles, Stephen Keshi has voiced his opinion following the draws for the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations released on Wednsday.

Nigeria will need to overcome Burkina Faso, Ethiopia and the reigning champions, Zambia if they are to reach the quarterfinals of the competition.

Keshi is full of respect for the three sides but feels his side can progress to the knockout stages of the tournament.

“I think it's a fair group. We are already

•Keshi

•As CAF appoints Moroccan referees

C

Tiazi while Leonal Vangente from Sao Tome & Principe would serve as the Match Commissioner.

In a related development, Nigerian referees would be on duty when Burkina Faso hosts Namibia this weekend. The first leg in Windhoek ended 2-0 in favour of the boys from Ouagadougou and their reverse fixture at home would be directly supervised by Nigerian Shina Henry Ogunyamodi as the centre referee. Isah Usman and Abel Baba would function as Assistant Referee 1 and 2respectively.

Benjamin Odey is the fourth referee while Ivorian Adriouma Kone would be the Match Commissioner.

•Manu Garba

From Tunde Liadi,Owerri the ticket on the away goal rule applied.

The former U17 coach stressed that based on the history between the two nations the Super Eagles should prepare adequately for all their matches especially the tie with the AFCON holders which he affirmed had always been very close contest in the past.

"As far as I am concerned, we don't have any problem qualifying from that group and there is no team in the group that we cannot beat.

For Zambia, they have always been a hard nut to crack being

Keshi unfazed with draw

U-17 CRACKER IN CONAKRY

OACH MANU GARBA (MFR) has revealed that the Golden Eaglets would approach Sunday's Confederation of African Football (CAF) Under-17 Championship second roundsecond leg qualifying match against Guinea like a World Cup final match!

Garba said the national Under-17 team is battle-ready for this particular encounter, adding that the team is in good form to preserve its streak of 16 successive wins in both friendly and competitive matches.

“I'm sure we can beat Guinea in Conakry,” Garba said with confidence before travelling out of the country.

“Except the first practice match we drew when we were just one week in camp, we have won all other matches and Guinea is not going to be an exemption.

“In fact, we are going to play against Guinea on Sunday as if we're playing a World Cup final match and by the special grace of Almighty Allah, we are going to come back victorious.”

Meanwhile, CAF has selected Moroccan referees as officials of the match between Guinea and Nigeria.

Thirty- Six-year-old Mounir Errahmani, an International referee since 2011 would be at the centre and would be assisted by Mouhib Abdallah Filali and Mohamed Lahmidi. The fourth referee is Hicham

F

ORMER Green Eagles' captain, Henry Nwosu has admonished Nigeria's senior national team to be wary of reigning champions, the Copper Bullets of Zambia whom he confessed, history has always made them a hard nut to crack for the nation.

Nwosu recalled some past encounters with the Zambians imcluding the famous 1985 two legged fixtures for the 1986 Africa Cup of Nations slated for Egypt then which the Eagles failed to qualify for after the Copper Bullets held Nigeria to a 1-1 draw in Lagos and recorded another goalless draw in Lusaka to nick

either at home or away. Even at a neutral ground, the Zambians have always been a formidable opponent to beat.

"In 1985 when I was the captain of the Green Eagles, the Zambians denied us the chance to feature at the 1986 Nations Cup. We played them here in Lagos and it ended 1-1 while we played goalless in Lusaka. It was that way we were beaten by them.

We also met in Libya,1982 Nations Cup where we needed a draw to qualify for the next round only for them to beat us 3-0 and our ouster confirmed.

AFRICAN CUP OF NATIONS

that the Football House was already prepared for any eventuality in agreement with the comments from the Eagles' boss, Stephen Keshi prior to the draws.

Olajire disclosed that the build up for the next Nations Cup would start immediately Keshi returns from his trip to South Africa when the Technical Sub Committee of the NFF convene to look at the programme submitted by coach Keshi regarding the AFCON tournament and to ratify the sure bet for an impressive competition in South Africa.

He said that the NFF will do everything within reach to ensure that the Eagles get to the target set by the nation's president, Dr Goodluck Jonathan who charged the team to go all out and win the Nations Cup to halt the cup drought experienced by the senior national team lately.

"Coach Keshi said before the draw that he is prepared for any team. The important thing is to prepare very well and have the mind to go in there and do a job.

"It is not the teams that you meet at the preliminary stage that matter but how prepared you are to take on those opponents that you meet later on in the competition. You really have to beat the best from other groups too to stand any chance to win the competition.

Manu fires Guinea warning

play their heart for their father land Nigeria.

Nigeria Football Federation Director of Technical Emmanuel Ikpeme simply reacted, "The draw its okay. Just okay.

Former Super Eagles defender Ajibade Babalade popularly known as Kunde warned about the danger of underrating the teams in Nigeria's group.

"There are no minnows again in football.

So it is going to be a tough group so we have to really prepare well. The preparations must start now, funds should not be a hindrance to Nigeria's preparations" the Shooting Stars Football Club Team M a n a g e r t o l d NationSport.

Beware of Zambia, Nwosu warns Eagles

in the group and we just need to get ourselves prepared and that's it,” Keshi said to supersport immediately after the draws in Durban.

The Nigerian trainer also took the time to speak on the team's first group opponents, Burkina Faso.

“Burkina Faso is a very good team and I want to believe that every team that qualified for this tournament is an outstanding team.

“We have to treat everyone with a lot of concentration Burkina Faso is a good team and

we all saw them at the 2012 edition of the Africa Cup of Nations.

“So we will go home and strategize and see what we can come up with when we come up against these teams,” he said.

Nigeria will face Burkina Faso in it's opening group game at the Mbombela Stadium in Nelspruit on January 21, 2013.

Four days later, the Super Eagles will take on the champions, Zambia at the same venue and then round off their preliminary campaign against Ethiopia at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium in Rustenburg on January 29

...Meets NFF Technical Committee soon

T

HE parley between the N i g e r i a F o o t b a l l Federation(NFF)'s Technical Sub Committee and the Head Coach of the Super Eagles, S t e p h e n Okechukwu Keshi is expected to kick start the nation's preparation for the next January Africa C u p o f

•Eagles' programme tops agenda

From Tunde Liadi,Owerri Nations(AFCON) a top official has revealed.

The Super Eagles were drawn in a balanced Group C comprising of the reigning Champions, the Copper Bullets of Zambia, the Stallions of Burkina Faso and the Walyas Antelopes of Ethiopia in the one made in Durban, South Africa on Wednesday.

In a telephone chat with the NFF's Chief Media Officer, Demola Olajire shortly after the draws, he disclosed that all reports on the

campsite and preparations of the Eagles for the AFCON were mere rumours as nothing yet has been concluded.

He stressed that there would be a meeting between the NFF's Technical Sub Committee and the Eagles' boss in the coming days to chart the way forward for the senior national team ahead of the AFCON in South Africa.

Olajire said:"Everything is on hold until the Head Coach (Keshi) comes back and until there is a meeting

between him and the Technical Sub Committee. The NFF has not decided on anything now. No arrangement has been made on the programme of the Eagles but in days to come they will be made public after their meeting."

Nigeria is seeking third crown in AFCON tourney after the triumphs at home in 1980 and 1994 in Tunisia where the current Eagles boss was then captain that lifted the cup after a 2-1 win over stubborn Zambia in Tunis.

• Mikel

AFTERMATH OF AFCON DRAW

Mikel, Musa promise good Eagles’ outing

E

AGLES’ stars led by Mikel Obi have promised a good AFCON outing after they drew champions Zambia and Burkina Faso in the first round.

On Wednesday, Nigeria were drawn in Group C in Nelspruit, along with Ethiopia also.

Chelsea midfielder Mikel Obi said it was a favourable draw for Nigeria.

"The draw favours us even though I am not saying we will just run over the other teams, but looking at the opposition, it is a group we should have upper hand,” said Mikel.

“We just have to take all the teams in the group seriously and we will be okay. I think the draw favours us."

"It is a very good first round group for us. I am sure no team there can stop us and so we will make it out of this group," added Russia-based Ahmed Musa, who is set to make his Nations Cup debut in South Africa.

However, Celtic defender Efe Ambrose warned that even though Nigeria will be fancied to go past this first round, they will need to prepare well to ensure they live up to expectations.

"It's a good draw. But I will not say it would be an easy walk for the Eagles. When something looks very easy on the surface, it may not be the same in the inside. So, we must prepare very well because there are no longer small teams in Africa," cautioned Ambrose.

The Eagles will begin their quest for a third Nations Cup title on January 21 against fellow West Africans Burkina Faso, who they last clashed with at the 1978 tournament in Ghana.

Nigeria won that game 4-2 against the Burkinabes, who were then known as Upper Volta.

INJURY SCARE

Yobo may miss Nations Cup

N

IGERIA skipper Joseph Yobo risks missing out on next year's AFCON as a result of a major knee injury, officials said.

MTNFootball.com has specially gathered that Yobo, who is set for his 90th international cap, has suffered a cruciate ligament knee injury, which could rule him out of action for at least six months.

The injury already meant the experienced central defender missed the decisive Nations Cup qualifier against Liberia in Calabar earlier this month. He was also replaced by Efe Ambrose due to injury in the first leg qualifier in Liberia in September.

He is also ruled out of his Turkish club's UEFA Europa League clash on Thursday against AEL Limassol of Greece.

“Yobo is nursing a very serious knee injury which may stop him from featuring at the Nations Cup. He has a cruciate ligament problem in the knee and such an injury could keep out a player for as long as six months,”a top source informed MTNFootball.com “The team officials are very much aware of this and have started working on several options in the team without Yobo.”

However, Yobo told MTNFootball.com on Wednesday night he will soon be back on his feet and playing again.

“I am still recuperating and my club don't want to rush me back, but should be back in a couple of days," said the player who has featured in five Nations Cup tournaments.

Should Yobo miss out on the AFCON, Nigeria Premier League (NPL) stars Godfrey Oboabona and Azubuike Egwuekwe will now stand a good chance of making the final cut to South Africa 2013.

That was the central defence combination that Keshi played for the last match against Liberia.

It would be recalled that injury also accounted for the former Everton star shortened run at the 2010 Nations Cup in Angola as he had to leave the tournament to attend to the complaint.

• Yobo

Lagos boxers storm Unilag for 2013 NATIONS CUP: Group C will be tough for Nigeria—Kuffour L LBHF boxing show F AGOS STATE boxers are set to storm Unilag for the Lagos Boxing Hall of Fame Monthly Saturday Boxing Show, preparatory to the 18th National Sports Festival slated for November 27 in Lagos.

The boxing show, which enters its 35th edition, comes up October 27, at the Indoor Sports hall, University of Lagos, Akoka, Yaba, thereby thrilling fans with best of amateur boxing in the entire duration.

In the 75kg of the boxing contests, energetic boxer, Shina John confronts Michael Oriyomi, Abua Christian

challenge Saheed Lawal in the 69kg, Hammed Rufai and prolific boxer, Otto Joseph takes on Adedeji Adekunle and Rasheed Aremu in the 64kg and 60kg bouts respectively.

Also, in the middleweight category, quintessential fighter, Abdulahi Balogun battle Kudus Adeleke for supremacy in the 56kg, as Hakeem Akinade lock horn with Isaac Oloyade in the 52kg. While the

duo of Dauda Azeez and Taiwo Abiodun clash with Muda Owolabi and Salau Nurudeen both in the 49kg bouts.

However in the female category, Mutiat Adebayo engages Adekunle Funmilayo in the 49kg fight.

The LBHF Monthly Saturday Boxing Show is organized in conjunction with the Lagos Amateur Boxing Association (LABA).

ORMER Ghana international, Samuel Osei Kuffour believes Nigeria's Super Eagles face an uphill task if they are to qualify for the knockout stages of the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations in South Africa.

Nigeria are in Group C alongside Ethiopia, Burkina Faso and the reigning champions, Zambia.

Kuffour who played in four editions of the Africa Cup of Nations with Ghana's Black Stars believes the Eagles have their work cut out against the three sides who

make up the group.

"Zambia are the defending champions and everybody is looking forward to seeing their performance again.

Watching them and Nigeria will be quite fascinating,” Kuffour told supersport shortly after the draws.

“The game between Nigeria and Burkina Faso will be fascinating as well because these are two teams from West Africa so it is a derby of sorts. Ethiopia also overcame Sudan in qualifying after losing 5-3 in the first leg.

“This is a very, very tough group,” Kuffour said.

Nigeria won the Nations Cup twice in 1980 and 1994 with Zambia being their victims in the final in their second triumph in Tunisia.

Zambia's solitary success in the competition came in 2012 when they beat the Ivory Coast on penalties in Libreville.

Ethiopia were African champions in 1962 while Burkina Faso have never won the competition.

The Burkinabes had their best outing in 1998 when as hosts, they finished in 4th place.

Groups Group A: South Africa, Cape Verde, Morocco, Angola Group B: Ghana, DR Congo, Niger Republic, Mali Group C: Zambia, Ethiopia, Burkina Faso, Nigeria Group D: Cote d'Ivoire, Togo, Algeria, Tunisia

THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

25

PEOPLE THE NATION

AN -EIGHT PAGE SECTION ON SOCIETY

Former Vice President Dr Alex Ifeanyichukwu Ekwueme was honoured in his home town, Oko, Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State last Friday, as part of the activities marking his 80th birthday, ADIMIKE GEORGE reports.

80 80 hearty hearty cheers cheers to to aa national national icon icon •From left: Governor Obi; Chief Anyaoku and Sir Joseph Ezeokafor proposing a toast to Sir Ekwueme

T

HE serene community of Oko, Orumba North Council Area of Anambra State, was in holiday mood last Friday. Oko is hometown of former Vice President, Dr Alex Ekwueme, who just turned 80.

It was the third edition of the Dr Alex Ekwueme Annual Lecture organised by the Federal Polytechnic Oko, Anambra State.

As early as 7.am, the heavy traffic flowing into Oko showed the day would be hectic, especially for motorists, despite the presence of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and other law enforcement agents.

The atmosphere at the polytechnic and the host community was electrifying.

Unlike the biblical prophet without honour in his town, Ekwueme is a man adored by his people and respected by outsiders.

But it was not all celebration. The venue was turned into a plaform ground for the upgrading and renaming of the polytechnic to Dr Alex Ekwueme University of Science and Technology.

Speaker after speaker called on the Federal Government to honour the elder statesman by naming the institution after him.

Former Commonwealth Secretary-General Chief Emeka Anyaoku, who chaired the occasion, said he was proud and privileged to be part of Dr Ekwueme’s birthday celebra-

tion.

Anyaoku described the celebrator as a “national icon.”

“He has instituted many legacies in the country including the polytechnic,” he said.

He said Ekwueme has contributed in many spheres of national life, especially in education, politics and architecture where he has an unequalled record.

Anyaoku went on: “I cannot see any Nigerian leader who has been as roundly educated and informed as Ekwueme in Nigeria’s history of both pre and post independence.”

The host and Rector of the polytechnic, Prof Godwin Onu, recalled how Ekwueme initiated and nurtured the institution some 30 years ago.

“Apart from many students that have passed through the institution, the polytechnic has about 12,000 students and 2,500 staff, all benefiting from the thoughtfulness and foresight of this multi-disciplinary mind.

“We assure you that the candle will not extinguish in our hands. As a management, we have tried to keep the flag flying. We have deployed studious and hardworking members of staff who have kept the students busy and disciplined. We have ex-

panded the curricula of the school with a number of new courses to reflect the multidisciplinary stature of the founder of the institution,” he said.

Anambra State Governor Peter Obi said it was high time the Igbos began celebrating great men whose source and path to greatness are traceable, adding that the celebrator is known for hard work and never cuts corners.

He said it was regrettable that people celebrate laziness and corruption which are eroding the spirit of entrepreneurship of the Igbo.

Obi described Ekwueme as a man to be identified with and a man of principles, insisting that he remains an elder statesman.

Senate Committee Chairman on Education Senator Uche Chukwumerije, in his lecture, pointed out that upgrading the polytechnic to a university was very important.

Chukwumerije urged Ndigbo on unity and to strive to reclaim their pride of place in the country.

According to him, the time has come for the Igbo to wake up to the challenges facing them as a nation.

He said the disunity among his kinsmen contributed to the continued marginalisation of the zone.

One of the recipients of the polytechnic’s award, Sir Emeka Offor, who was represented

by Innocent Anoliefo, urged the Federal Government to upgrade the polytechnic and name it after its founder.

Former Central Bank of Nigeria Governor Prof Chukwuma Soludo described the celebrator as a “colossus”.

Soludo called him an Ekwuemenomics who, he said, should be studied at all time.

He recounted Ekwueme’s contribution during the constitutional conference that gave birth to the six geo-political zones in the country.

He said he was always proud to identify with him at all times, adding that the country needs people like him.

In his vote of thanks, Ekwueme said he was not in a hurry to leave the planet as the late Nnamdi Azikiwe said.

He said he felt as strong as he was 20 years ago, adding that age was a matter of feeling.

He thanked the management of the polytechnic for the honour.

Guests at the lecture included the Olowo of Owo, Oba Olateru Olagbegi and Dr Alex Obiogbolu, among others.

•More pictures on page 26

THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

26

SOCIETY 80 HEARTY CHEERS TO A NATIONAL ICON

•Prof Soludo (left) and Prof Onu

•Chairman, Jezco Group of Companies, Sir Joseph Ezeokafor

•From left: Oba Olagbegi; Prof Laz Ekwueme and Innocent Anoliefo

•Prof Chukwuemeka Ike

•Mrs Beatrice Ekwueme

•Senator Uche Chukwumerije

A PARTY HELD IN LAGOS TO HONOUR THE LATE OBA KARUNWI OGUNDEJI, THE FATHER-IN-LAW OF CHIEF ERIC TENIOLA, A RETIRED DIRECTOR IN THE PRESIDENCY

•Chief Eric Teniola dancing with his wife Moji, daugther of the deceased

•Chief Babu Akinbobola (left) and Chief Biyi Akinseye

•From left: Mr Ademulegun; Mr Afun, his wife Bola and Mrs Ademulegun

•Executive Director, Union Bank Mr Philip Ikeazor

•Mr Kudus Adekoya and his wife Alhaja Toyin

•From left: Mrs Funmi Akinbobola; Mrs Wemimo Akinduro; Mrs Jumoke Kupoluyi and Mrs Bolanle Akinseye

•Chief Yemi Nelson

THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

27

SOCIETY

When Ilawe-Ekiti indigenes converged on the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos, under the auspices of Ilawe Improvement Union, Lagos Branch, for their sixth Iyan Day celebration, it was time to relax and recognise some of their dear ones. ABIKE ADEGBULEHIN and JUMOKE IDOWU were there.

H

UNDREDS of miles away, from home, Ilawe-Ekiti indigenes felt so much at home in Lagos last weekend. They were in the city to honour some of their dearest ones.

Ilawe, headquarters of Ekiti South Local Government, is proud to be the origin of many important personalities in Nigeria among whom are human rights activistlawyer Femi Falana (SAN); former Ogun State Military Administrator Navy Commodore Kayode Olofinmoyin; former Minister and Senator, Chief Bode Olowoporoku; former Nigerian Air Force Accountant Wing Commander Adeyemi Awe and renowned medical doctor Ore Orekunrin Last Saturday, the indigenes converged for the sixth Iyan Day tagged A Royal Iyan Day. Iyan (pounded yam) is a special delicacy of the Ekiti people.

The event also featured a special award session for some of the indigenes.

The hall was beautifully decorated in orange, blue and white.

It is no surprise that illustrious indigenes of the town from various walks of life thronged the ceremony.

A photography session was staged outside the hall as guests trooped into the arena.

The hall dazzled with scintillating music dished out by the Topeled band.

The arrival of the Alawe of Ilawe, Oba Adebanji Ajibade Alabi, was greeted with jubilation. Indigenes and guests stood up and yelled Kabieysioooo - the traditional way of greeting a monarch.

The event began with the National Anthem, followed by the Ekiti Anthem and their very own Ilawe Anthem.

The opening prayer was said by Pastor Abayomi Ayona.

Dignitaries and awardees were introduced and invited to the high table.

The chairman on the occasion, Senator Babafemi Ojudu, was represented by his wife, Tola Ojudu.

The Ilawe Improvement Union President, Mr Akin Abereowo, an engineer, was filled with joy.

According to him, it was the first Iyan Day celebration Oba Alabi would attend. He described the day as great, saying Ilawe community is a homogenous community with vast land for people to excel in farming.

"It gives me great joy and a sense of humility to present the presidential address to you on this occasion we are honouring our illustrious sons for their enviable achievements in their various fields. I crave your unalloyed support to move the town to an enviable position in Ekiti in particular and Nigeria in general.

"Let us run the Ilawe race together and faithfully to restore the town to its lost glory. Thank you all, and God bless," he said.

The awardees were called upon to receive their awards.

Among the awardees were the Chief of Staff, Ekiti State Government, Hon. Adeyemi Adaramodu; former Vice-Chancellor, Ekiti University of Education, Prof. Akin Ogunlade; and President, Institute of Taxation, Mr John Jegede.

Their profiles were read by friends and well wishers.

In response to the awards, the awardees made short speeches and donations which were supported by their friends.

Adaramodu thanked God and the Ilawe Improvement Union for honouring him.

Ekiti community honours achievers

•Olori Alabi (right) presenting an award to Adaramodu and his wife Olutoyin •Oba Adebanji and Mrs Olayinka

•Mrs Ojudu (right) presenting an award to Mr John Jedege (left) and his wife Florence

•Mr Falana (SAN) (right) presenting a plaque to Prof Ogunlade

•Mr Abereowo and Olori Abimbola Alabi

•Chief Gbenga Agbona and his wife Bolanle

"I am one of the reasons for this royal presence today, and I know I have done well for my community and they have noticed it and that is the reason I am being honoured here, today. I cannot thank them enough," he said.

In appreciation of the royal father, the people of Ilawe presented him a large portrait of him which he received with warm smiles and showered prayers on them.

Dignitaries in attendance included Ekiti State Deputy Governor Mrs Funmi Olayinka; wife of the Alawe Olori Abimbola Alabi; Human rights lawyer Mr Femi Falana (SAN); Special Adviser to the Governor Akin Feseye; his counterpart on Political Matters, Kayode Olashebi; Hon Tope Asidi, chairman of Ekiti South Local Government Kolawole Genge, among others.

•From left: Hon Olusoga David; Hon Genge Kolawole and Elder Ogunleuje

PHOTOS: RAHMAN SANUSI

28

THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

SOCIETY Children of the late Madam Veronica Abebi, joined by friends and others penultimate Saturday in Ilawe-Ekiti, Ekiti State, for her funeral at St. John’s Pro-Cathedral Catholic Church, SULAIMAN SALAWUDEEN

S

HE was a tailor, community based caterer, raw food retailer, and full scale farmer.

She believed hard work, describing it as the only antidote to penury; and was inclined to showing the needy always that crossed her path how to fish rather than giving them fish.

A fairly comfortable woman who took pride cooking well in excess of her immediate family needs, Madam Veronica Abebi spent years feeding several children, lavishing “love and care” on people in a philanthropic gesture often read about than experienced.

A magical authority of history which she would reel out with effortless ease despite not being formally educated, she quite often displayed a retentive memory which stunned many.

Although born in 1912 into a family, which believed in traditional religions, the circumstances of her life led her early enough into the catholic faith in which she nurtured a life of fulfillment until her death on July 27. She was 100.

Guests turned up early for the funeral service at the St. John’s Pro-Cathedral Catholic Church, Ilawe-Ekiti, filling the seats in no time. Scores of others either sat or stood outside.

The congregation clad in attractive attires, kept the silence except for occasional calls for participation in the process of cleansing mama in readiness for the final journey.

A mother in million In attendance were the children, including erudite Professor of Medicine, Akin Araoye of the Ekiti State University (EKSU), Mr. Adeniran Bernard Akindele-Alo; Mrs. Adenike Odilia Akomolede and Mr. James Akintade Akindele-Alo. They were joined by siblings of the deceased, her step children, grand children and great grand children who equally filed out in their bests in celebration of the passage of a woman who spent 70 years as a congregational member of the church.

Presiding at the service, Most Rev. Felix Femi-Ajakaye, explained that the deceased who he also knew as a mother was committed to the growth of the church and the development of the people.

The cleric lamented general loss of kinship bonds which has seen families becoming divided with attendant ills as are disturbingly familiar today.

Revd femi-Ajakaye enjoined the children of the diseased who are based overseas to return home and nurture new crops of achievers from within the community who would undertake the noble task of engaging the society meaningfully.

“Please, come home and multiply yourselves. Success without successor is failure in reality. Not all of us can work with gov-

ernment. But, let us know and filter those we want to assist. It should not be those who would take the money and go on wild drinking,” he said.

Femi-Ajakaye noted that those who decide to relocate overseas should not wait for an elderly relation to die before coming home as it shows only a lack of a caring heart for the community which nurtured them into attainments.

The Catholic Bishop of Ekiti Diocese commended mama for a fulfilled life as revealed in the achievement of her children who have all attained heights of glory and occupying notable positions across endeavours.

Encouraging the congregation to embrace the culture of maintenance, he lamented a “reign of waste” consequent upon general penchant to destroy, adding that a critical need to re-orientate societal values will in turn institute a “continuity in good things and not continuity in corruption.”

Relating her time with mama, Prof. Araoye who noted that despite being just a cousin to her, she gave him same treatment as she did her own children.

He said he could not identify any negative conduct with her.

Prof said: “She was my cousin but she took care of me whole seven years. She did not

have any formal education but was steeped thoroughly in the ways of the lord.

“She thought and acted the bible for as long as I knew her. Humility is a quality easy to identify in her, never fought or argued with her husband for one day.

Alo, one of mama’s biological children, described mama as the “very best of motherhood and womanhood; a philanthropist per excellence.”

He however noted that “mama would turn the other eyes if you try to be smart or want to take undue advantage.”

The event soon shifted from the church to Corpus Christi College in the town where guests had a refreshing time with all manner of tasty foods from the familiar to the less familiar.

Children of Mama also took time to wiggle dance steps to music tunes, which enabled willing guests to pelt them with wads of high denomination naira notes.

Dignitaries at the event included a past military administrator of Ogun State, Commodore Kayode Olofinmoyin and wife; the Alara of Aramoko-Ekiti, Oba Adegoke OluAdeyemi and wife; Prof. Bode Asubiojo of the Obafemi Awolowo University and wife, Femi. Others are Chief Kola Akomolede, the Asiwaju of Ilawe Kingdom; Chief Kayode Anjorin and wife, Chief Funke Anjorin; Special Assistant (Public Affairs) to the Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Mrs. Yemisi Ayokunle; and Mr Shina Awelewa and wife.

•From left: Prof Akin Araoye; Mr Ade Akindele-Alo; his wife, Mrs Akindele Alo; and Mr Bejide Richard at the church service

•Alara of Aramoko, Oba Adegoke Olu-Adeyemi and wife

•Mr Shina Awelewa and his wife

•From left: Mrs Kolade; a guest and Mr Kolade

•Prof Bode Asubiojo and his wife

•Commodore Kayode Olofinmoyin and his wife

29 FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

Vol 4. No. 1773

For years, the fight for consumers’ loyalty has been stiff among Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) service providers. The questioin is: which should be our major concern, promos or good network services?

RAJI ROTIMI SOLOMON writes

Telecom service providers in stiff promo battle P

ROMOTION has become the latest advert tool used by telecommunication companies in Nigeria to secure customers’ attention. The promos are aimed at getting new customers and retaining old subscribers. It is interesting to observe the race going on in the telecom industry as they try to lure consumers with different promos in order to out-do each other. These promos are quite amazing: for the new mobile users, it is the real deal. But for the first generation of GSM users, they feel cheated. Some of the promos thrown out by the telecoms companies would have sounded impossible some eight years ago.

I spoke with an Airtel subscriber, Mrs. Esther Raji. She said: “I bought my Econet SIM card for N50,000 and I was spending N35 per minute on every call I made. There was no consideration for intra-network calls.

I never knew a day would come when the same SIM card would be sold for N200”.

The telecoms industry in Nigeria has grown exponentially after the GSM mobile operators were licensed in 2001. Mobile Telecommunication Network (MTN) was the first mobile operator to set up shop on Nigerian soil. The rush for mobile phone acquisition was not so high but it was a big relief for the Nigerian middle class. Prior to the arrival of the mobile phone operators in Nigeria, telephones, and more specifically, mobile phones were strictly for the upper echelon, the high and mighty. The Nigerian telecommunication Limited (NITEL) was the only service provider and its operation and services can best be compared with our present day Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN). Epileptic network service, poor customer relations, embezzlement, and

clumsy telephone wires, characterized the organization’s operations. Power soon changed hands when the telecommunications sector was deregulated.

MTN came in and erased all of the flaws that NITEL exhibited. For starters, you no longer needed to bribe an engineer to fix your telephone line; all you needed to do was to call the customer service line. Wireless technology was introduced, putting an abrupt end to scattered NITEL poles and wires. Though signals were not at their best then, it was much better than what NITEL offered.

Within six months of operation in the country, MTN had 350,000 subscribers with their coverage strong in Lagos, Port-Harcourt and Abuja. At present MTN Nigeria is the market leader, with a subscriber base forty-one million strong. It also has the widest network

coverage in Nigeria. Subscribers’ major complaint is congestion and high tariff, said Bisi Ilori, a former subscriber.

Econet Wireless Nigeria flagged off in 2001.

From Econet to Vmobile, Vodacom, Celtel, Zain and now Bharti Airtel; the company has had its share of troubles. Customers got weary of the constant change of name and tariff plans. They go to bed at night as subscribers of one company, and wake up the following day as customers of another. According to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Airtel presently has slightly above 20 million subscribers.

On August 29, 2003, Globacom Limited entered the market to become the first indigenous mobile telecommunications company after the defunct NITEL. Its arrival was much anticipated because of its promise to reduce tariffs. Glo came in with the per-second billing plan which today has become the most

‘I bought my Econet SIM card for N50,000 and I was spending N35 per minute on every call I made. There was no consideration for intranetwork calls. I never knew a day would come when the same SIM card would be sold for N200 ... Telecom companies should focus more on delivering quality service to their customers.

This is bound to win in the long-term than any promo could’

used billing plan. Presently it has over 25 million subscribers.

So, telecommunications in Nigeria has come a long way. But is all well? Are consumers really getting the best service possible? What do we make of the many promos that are launched by the telecom companies?

Are these promos intended to benefit subscribers like these companies claim they are?

Promos, of course, are effective tools for gaining customer loyalty in any kind of businessif they are done with the interest of the customer at heart. Presently, virtually all of the telecoms companies have a use airtime-andget-free credit promo. Good. But what do we make of those that encourage subscribers to recharge and win airplanes? Airplanes!

Luxury buses! These promos are so spectacular, they almost border on nonsensical. Does anybody really think that they’ll win airplanes by using a recharge card of two hundred naira? The companies of course, make no such claim. They just leave out a few details.

The question is: Are these promos necessary? Promos, by nature, are short-term solutions to long-term problems. All promos eventually come to an end- tariff cuts, bonus airtime, and yes; the chance to win airplanes.

The major, long-term problem in our part of the world is quality of service. The long race usually goes to the tortoise, not the hare. According to a telecom expert, Idowu Aina, team lead, microwave transmission unit Huawei telecommunication company Nigeria said “telecom companies should focus more on delivering quality service to their customers.

This is bound to win in the long-term than any promo play could”.

THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

30

Brandnews

Odigbo wins firm’s Brand Personality crown

A

S part of Marketing Edge’s mission of promoting the brand idea, plans have been concluded to confer chairman of Casers Group, Enyi Odigbo with the award of Brand Personality of the Year 2011.

The award ceremony, which was held on October 23 at Sheraton Hotel and Suite Lagos, displayed pomp and pageantry at its peak.

Over 300 top corporate leaders in the Integrated Marketing Communications (IMC) sector and the clients’ side were in attendance.

Odigbo was crowned in recognition of his numerous achievements in the brand building business and for his contributions to the growth of creativity in advertising business in Nigeria.

Former Managing Director of Samsung, Nigeria Enang Idonrenyen delivered a dinner talk on contemporary marketing issues at the event. He said: “positioning is one major tool for per-

By Raji Rotimi Solomon

sonal branding and these four elements are key to achieve an enviable height. Authenticity, staying power, consistency and relevance. All these are characteristics clearly displayed by Odigbo both in his personal life and business world”.

Publisher/Chief Executive Officer, Marketing Edge Publications John Ajayi, said the doggedness and incomparable but admirable entrepreneurial spirit demonstrated by Odigbo in championing the cause of advertising and marketing practice over the years was second to none.

He further said the choice of Odigbo as the 2011 Brand Personality of the Year was very significant in view of the fact that this was the second time in the magazine’s eight-year history that a practitioner would be so nominated for honour and recognition.

•From left: Odigbo; Chairman of the occasion Mr William Nnorom and Ajayi, during the event organised by Marketing Edge in Lagos.

PHOTO: MUYIWA HASSAN

NB donates dialysis machines to LASUTH

A

S part of efforts to contribute its quota in the pursuit of good health delivery, Heineken Africa Foundation (HAF) in collaboration with Nigerian Breweries Plc has donated two dialysis machines to the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH).

The machines, worth N16 million were donated with consumables of about N3 million.

Nigeria Breweries also pledged to

By Olatunde Odebiyi

foot maintenance cost for a year.

The Managing Director/CEO Nigerian Breweries Plc Nicolaas Vervelde, represented by Mrs Eithel Uche, disclosed this during the presentation of the machines.

Vervelde said the donation is a practical demonstration of the commitment of the organisation to Lagos State and promised more

machines if the need arises. He said the donation and installation of the machines was especially for the dialysis of HIV+ and Hepatitis B+ patients, today is one of several health related projects lined up as a demonstration of Breweries commitment to social responsibility in Lagos State.

He said: “Being a socially responsible corporate organisation, NB is committed to supporting developmental aspirations. As a

result of its special relationship with Lagos, we have over the years invested heavily in several CSR and youth empowerment programmes in the state.

The Chief Medical Director (CMD) LASUTH Prof Adewale Oke, who commissioned the donation of the dialysis machines, expressed his appreciation to the management and staff of Heineken Africa Foundation and Nigerian Breweries Plc for their

kind gesture extended towards LASUTH and its numerous clients. He reiterated the plan of the hospital to build a kidney transfer centre.

According to him, the machines will go a long way in helping people live longer and healthier lives, it will also help people with HIV and Hepatitis B and also ensure that the plan of the hospital to expand the unit is achieved soon.

According to the new PRCAN president, “deliberate policy actions and legislation have underpinned growth of professions; Public Relations needs policy and legislative support to grow.” As such, PRCAN would adopt advocacy visits to key government officials at Federal, state and local government levels to raise awareness and the right policy environment that would create jobs for member firms. The visits would also enable these key stakeholders realise as

well as implement the law.

PRCAN is a creation of a bye law of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations. It groups together agencies that render public relations consultancy services. By the NIPR Act, only persons registered with NIPR are eligible to practise public relations in Nigeria. For companies, only those registered with PRCAN, whose key executives must be members of NIPR, are eligible to offer public relations services and earn income for it.

From left: Odusote; Opayemi; Akintunde; Nwakanma; Ehiguese; Osagie and Maduegbuna

New executives for PRCAN

A

NEW executive committee for the Public Relations Consultants Association of Nigeria (PRCAN) has assumed of-

fice to deliver “Bigger and better association that articulates and serves the overall best interest of members in key areas of advocacy, professionalism and support for growth of PR business”.

Led by Mr Chido B Nwakanma of Blueflower Limited as President, members of the executive committee include Mr John Ehiguese of Mediacraft Associates, Vice President; Mr Muyiwa Akintunde, Leap Communications, General Secretary; Mr Tola Odusote, CMC Con-

nect, Assistant General Secretary; and Mr Israel Jaiye Opayemi, Chain Reactions Limited, Publicity Secretary. The two past presidents, Mr Emeka Maduegbuna and Dr Phil Osagie are ex-officio members.

The executive emerged at the second Annual General Meeting of PRCAN held at Hotel 1960 Eagles Park in Ikeja. Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) Registrar Dr. Steve Adebayo observed the elections.

SHOPPING

31

THE NATION

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

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

•Buba & Sokoto

e-mail: janicenkoli@yahoo.com 08033349992 sms only

email:- shopping@thenationonlineng.net

•Danshiki

Local designs affordable, resourceful These days, almost every one aspires to own contemporary outfits made from local fabrics. The main attraction is their affordability and versatility. While shopping, how do you identify the original from the substandard? JANICE NKOLI IFEME gives a clue.

•STORY ON PAGE 32

How to buy a good rug

Page 33

High prices of livestock, foodstuff herald Sallah

Page 34

A breath of fresh air Page 34

THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

32

SHOPPING

Local designs affordable, resourceful L

OCAL designs have gained prominence and dot various social and corporate events in and outside the country.

The Nigerian native attire remains the toast of many gatherings but with a difference. Its increased popularity has spurred many designers to create contemporary outfits that could be worn for all occasions. From the boutique in your neighbourhood, the market closest to you, to the high brow stores and major markets across the country, it is interesting to see an array of local fabrics sewn stylishly that make the wearer stand out at any gathering.

They are richly designed and very affordable. Almost every market has a section for local fabrics as well as tailored ones but they are cheaper at specialised markets, such as Balogun and Gotta in Lagos Island, Itokun in Abeokuta and Gbagi in Ibadan. Many notable fashion designers get their materials and accessories from these markets for their trendy designs attires which they display in malls and boutiques. Some export them abroad and make huge profit from their sales because of its high demand in various parts of the world.

In the past, people wore native attires mostly for cultural and traditional events, such as weddings, festivals, christening and burial. Even at that, it was optional - only the core traditionalists imbibed it. But today, the case is different. Local designs dot every social gathering you can think of. Many wear them at corporate events. It is also trendy in offices; many people use them to make beautiful styles with a mix of corporate flavour.

In the past, many red carpet events flaunted clothes, shoes and accessories by western designers. But these days, many are proud to say their outfits have been made from local fabrics. This was also a major observation last Saturday, during the 2013 Hip hop World award ceremony otherwise called ‘The Headies’. Unlike previous editions of the show where people made a show of wearing outfits from foreign designers, most of those interviewed by Hip TV on the Yellow carpet said their clothes were sourced locally.

The Managing Director, Faculus Fashion, a high brow fashion outfit on Adenekan Salako Close, Ogba, Lagos, Mr Dele Faculude Olowe highlighted the uniqueness of local designs and gave tips on how to shop for them.

He said: “Great respect is now accorded native fabrics and that is what it should be. This time things have changed. People wearing native to the office helps us to have customers. There are certain things to consider while buying native fabrics. If it is lace fabric for instance, look at the quality of the material.

Look at the fabric and not just the embroidery. You have to be sure that it is 100 per cent cotton. The best lace is Swiss. It is our job, so we know the fabrics very well. It is also advisable to buy from different stores, except you discover a seller who is honest.

You can also know the quality through the price. As far as I am concerned, I will tell

•Guinea brocade

•Olowe in one of his designs

you; this must be more expensive than this.”

On shopping for Guinea brocade, he said: “If you do not know it, you may buy the fake as original. Look at the label. The best among them is Jetsner. It depends on the shop and the price. The same applies to Ankara, wooden and other local fabrics. You have to know them very well, to be able to identify the fake from the original. Many of my customers rely on me to help them spot the original when they are shopping. But it is something you can also do for yourself, if you are very observant”.

His outfit, Faculus Fashion, sited between two banks is a port of call for managing directors of several companies, local government chairmen, retired generals, government functionaries, prominent men in the society and the middle class.

Having been in the trade for over 40 years,

he seems to have established himself with a particular set of customers. “We sew for selected people. It is classy and not expensive.

At the same time, we do not want every Tom Dick and Harry. My clients are mainly in their 40s and 50s. You know, the set of people who are highly responsible and value our native attires”, he said.

“We only sew for men. I create my designs.

I give each design a number, so when you are coming again, we make sure we do not repeat it. When I do a particular design, I put it under your name. I thank God for one thing.

About 80 per cent of customers for the past 20 years are still with me.”

Some of the designs are: long caftan, agbada, danshiki, buba and sokoto. Embroidery and stitches are skillfully incorporated to form unique styles.

“We receive fabrics and sew. We buy for

‘There are certain things to consider while buying native fabrics. If it is lace fabric, for instance, look at the quality of the material. Look at the fabric and not just the embroidery. You have to be sure that it is 100 per cent cotton’

the customer on request. The fabrics we work on are Guinea brocade, wooden, linen, lace, adire and other local fabrics.

With about N25,000 one can get a trendy Guinea brocade. You can buy five yards of the fabric for N18,000. Italian linen costs less than N20,000 while Bankok linen costs N12,000.

The company name Faculus, was coined from his name, Faculude.

Despite the progress of local designs, he noted that the erratic power supply is a major challenge in the trade.

“Power supply is a major impediment. We spend so much on alternative power. It is not helping us. If the government can do something about electricity, Nigeria will grow. If they can just take care of that area, other things will follow.”

Speaking of his sustainability in the business, he said: “I give thanks to God and my clients. They love me and assist me.”

He expressed disappointment at financial institutions saying: “Banks are not helping issues. They do not give loans. The interest rate is too high.”

He gave a piece of advice to shoppers: “Some people do not have taste. The best thing is to look out for a good designer who would clothe you properly.”

Hot sale of abbayas for Sallah Muslim women love to wear beautiful clothes, such as abbayas, the female fashionable kaftan, to celebrate the Sallah.

SULIAT LAMID visited some Muslim stores and reports that abbayas top many women’s shopping list.

T

•Elegant ladies kaftan

HE Sallah festival is not just a celebration for killing rams and preparing delicacies but also for adorning beautiful attires.

The latest fashion trend nowadays is Indian gowns and abbayas worn mostly by Muslim women. These attires can be used for social, traditional and wedding events.

They are usually beautiful and colourful.

They are affordable, costing between N2, 500 and N4,000. But with the Sallah, they now cost N5,000 to N10,000 depending on the size and length, which may be long or short.

Alhaja Muibat Oladejo, a trader at Nnamdi Azikwe Road, Central Mosque, Idumota, Lagos, said she had to increase the prices of

her clothes because of the Sallah celebration. She also said her goods come from Kano and the transporters have increased the fare due to fuel scarcity and this has led her to increase prices.

Mrs Toibat Abdul Kareem, a shopper at the market, said she had to buy clothes that went for N4,500 last year for N6,000 due to the economic challenges in the country.

Abbaya wears can also be got at Al-Ameens place at 13, Lagos Road, Benson Bus-stop, Ikorodu, Lagos at affordable prices ranging from N5, 000 to N10,000 depending on the sizes.

33

THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

SHOPPING

How to buy a good rug Purchasing a good rug can be demanding yet rewarding.

A quality handmade rug has lively, lustrous wool or fibre with well balanced colours and perfect finishing. Bear this in mind when you go shopping, writes SULIAT LAMID.

Shopping Right with

Shoppers love fun, too

Y

• Round Persian rug

T

HE most important step in buying a good rug is to find a rug dealer you can trust. The best rug dealers are those who love to share their knowledge with you to enable you make the right choice.

Some of the finest, ones can be found at Nobel Carpets and rugs located at 44, Eric Moore Road, Surulere, Lagos, Btr Commercial Enterprises, 7/9 Itire Road, Surulere, Lagos, Duluxe Carpet located at 67 Awolowo Road, Ikeja, Lagos.

At the Ojuwoye market, Mushin, Lagos, a fairly used plain rug which has no design is sold for N30,000 depending on the size.

A yard is N4,000. The price of fairly Persian rugs range, from N60,000 to N120,000 de-

• A rug for children’s room

pending on the quality. It costs N8,000 per yard and has hard textual quality.

Before you head to the rug store, measure the area the rug will cover. Remember, you should probably have a border of flooring all the way around the rug. Allow for a range of sizes; the greater the range the more choices you will have. Consider if you will prefer traditional rug or those with contemporary designs. To guide your decision, you may consider getting an interior designer to help you find a suitable one. But remember, the rug dealer’s focus will be on quality. Yours will be on what you like. Listen to all, but mostly to yourself. Ensure that the pattern of rug does not clash with the curtains.

ES, shoppers may be looking for bargains, but they also value a fun and entertaining shopping experience. If you provide that, the customers will keep coming.

Since it costs five times as much to acquire a new customer than to retain an existing one; and dissatisfied customers vote with their feet, smart retailers pay very close attention to customer relations.

This means that every employee needs to treat every customer like the precious resource they are, since they are the future of your store. Be proactive about making changes to merchandise, prices and customer service programmes.

JANICE NKOLI IFEME Staying in-tune with your customer is the key to staying on top.

Once you have set up your store based on the Perhaps this was what inspired the revamp above, it’s time to get the customers in. The Los of Popular retail brand, Marks & Spencer. It is Angeles Times recently had an article listing wheeling out an array of props including mosome examples of in-store promotions being peds and pasta machines as part of a £600million used by retailers. These will give you some revamp of its shop floors, which will see stores ideas on how to create your own in-store within stores created for its clothing ranges and promotions. These include holding parties, ofthe return of delicatessen counters. Its chief exfering loyalty discounts, providing classes and ecutive, Marc Bolland, orcareer counseling to get catch dered the believing that, the interest of customers. despite £2bn spent by his preSome stores team up with ‘Every employee decessor Sir Stuart Rose on local medical practitioners to needs to treat every modernising the estate, the offer free blood pressure and customer like the shops remain stubbornly breast cancer screenings and difficult to navigate and less precious resource conduct free nutrition workthan inspiring. The new deshops. they are, since they sign is already being tried in Some even host a cocktail are the future of your 16 stores around the United party and initiate a reward store. Be proactive Kingdom, including the new programme that gives cusoutlet at Westfield Stratford tomers a certain discount about making City in east London. Bolland every time they spend up to a changes to chose to show off the new particular amount. This is the merchandise, prices concept not in Stratford, but kind of thing MTN is doing and customer service with a tour of the M&S with its five* bonus. It gives branch in High Street its customers a target of programs. Staying inKensington. He believes that spending N200 air time and tune with your the revamp revamp will winning N1,000 airtime, customer is the key boost sales by £1billion to which expires 12 midnight £1.5billion over three years. to staying on top’ same day. Other networks The same has also been done have also taken to similar for the grocery section. promos.

Taking inspiration from organic farmers’ marSome give free gifts at the purchase of a parkets, the food hall shelves have been clad in ticular item. For instance, Samsung is currently wood and galvanised steel, and the bakery prorunning a promo whereby if you buy its new duces sourdough bread as well as the usual refrigerator, you get a smart camera or galaxy croissants. The flowers are in zinc rather than pocket for free. plastic buckets, mounted on wooden crates.

Some shops offer sewing and craft workThis is what distinguishes famous brands all shops. This is common among sugar craft artover the world. They have maintained their ists. While holding exhibitions, they also enreputation over the years by bringing creativgage in workshops and training for interested ity and innovation into their acts and making shoppers. changes where necessary.

They enlist a career coach who offers guidKeep in touch with your retail results. Use ance to customers on home making and do-ityour store technology to know what promoyourself activities. tions are effective and where consumer experiMany shopping malls offer leisure and enterences are lacking. tainment options. Many provide children’s court Use your POS system to assess customer purwhere the kids could catch fun while their parents chase and return history that verifies customer shop. Even smaller stores which do not have so satisfaction, allowing you to offer new items at much space to spare also make provision of sort preferential pricing that a valued customer to enable shoppers catch fun. It could be in the might want. provision of cable TV for shoppers who walk in Using information on your customers, their to watch the Premiership and great movies. demand and some market intelligence, leverKeep in mind that once the customer is in the age that knowledge to build a strategic, tarstore, your focus should be on merchandising. geted approach to pricing, promotion, assortAvoid filling racks with discounted products and ment and other crucial merchandising funcminimal staff. Merchandisers should move tions. appealing products to the front and promote by Take a look at whether the category roles and using eye-catching displays. image items you identify are really perceived Maintain the value of your retail brand with a that way by your customers. For example, do clean and well-presented store front. Regardyour traffic drivers actually yield profitable trafless of the economy, consumers want to enjoy fic or do they encourage cherry-pickers? The their shopping experience. Make sure your technology you have in your store can help store front is warm and inviting get-away from you determine the answer. the daily economic downturn.

Write to us, express your views, observations and experiences. Let’s have your comments about shopping. Your comments, questions and answers will be published first Friday of every month. With your full name and occupation, send e-mail to: janicenkoli@yahoo.com SMS - 08033349992

34

THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

SHOPPING As Muslims prepare for the Id-Al-Adha, popularly known as Eid-El-Kabir or Sallah, they are faced with the high cost of foodstuffs, livestock and other commodities due to increase in their prices. SULIAT LAMID and OGECHUKWU EMEDIKE report.

High prices of livestock, foodstuff herald Sallah I D-AL-ADHA is a season of celebration observed by Muslims by slaughtering rams and preparing various delicacies.

With this year’s Sallah festival, the country is battling with challenges such as scarcity of fuel and increase in transport fare as well as high prices of foodstuffs and livestock. People are facing so much difficulty in getting their rams and foodstuffs for the celebration.

Ram is the major livestock used for the Sallah celebration and due to the increase in the price of fuel resulting in scarcity, it has been difficult to transport the item from neighbouring countries, such as Niger Republic without increase in their prices.

A ram that cost N35, 000 last year is now N60,000. Bad roads has also contributed to the increase in prices of ram since truck owners charge exorbitant fares to convey

them from Kano to other places.

Mallams in Kano complained that the recent floods have washed away or killed their rams meant for sales for the festival.

This has resulted in increase in the prices of rams.

The abattoir at Berger bridge along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway is popularly known for sales of livestock, especially during the Sallah season, but buyers have been complaining about the high cost of ram.

A butcher, Yusuf Abdullah, said there have not been customers to purchase ram because of the rise in prices. He said he had to sell a ram of N50, 000 last year for N90,000 this year because of the challenges the country is facing.

Mr Musibau Oladele, a buyer at the ram market at Oke-Afa Bridge, Isolo, Lagos, said that a ram he bought for N40,000 last year has now been increased to N85,000.

Also, at the Owode Ram Market, near Mile

12, Lagos, the price of ram range from N70,000 to N150,000.

It is not just the cost of ram that has increased, but also the prices of foodstuffs, such as fresh tomatoes, rice, onions and groundnut oil. A basket of tomato was between N8,000 and N10,000. But now costs N40,000. The medium basket formerly N500 is now N800.

Mrs Titilope Ajanaku, a buyer at Mushin market, said the rate of the increase in price of fresh tomatoes is alarming. She stated that as at last month she still bought a small size basket of tomatoes for N150 but now it is N400.

Mrs Kikelomo Badmus, a trader at the popular foodstuff Daleko market, said the increase in sales of foodstuffs was due to the Sallah celebration, which increased the demand for food items. She said a bag of rice that was formerly N8,000 to N10,000 now costs between N15,000 and N20,000 depending on the

quality.

Other markets where rams could be bought are Alabarago market along the Lagos Badagry Express Way, Lagos, Costain and Ketu Alapere markets by Ikorodu road, Lagos.

Mr Abddul Azeez who trades in livestock on Kumuyi Street at Ojuwoye market, Mushin, Lagos, said: “The prize of ram ranges from N30,000 to N50,000, but the prize of cow is higher, ranging from N80,000 to N100,000 depending on the size. It is a bit more costly this year.

But you know, it is something we cannot do without this festive period. It is a very lucrative business but a seasonal one.

People have taken advantage of the festivity to nurture the livestock for some months before the Sallah to make them look healthier and more robust. It is expected of Muslim faithful to share the items with neighbours, friends and well wishers.

•Hand sprayer

•Airwick air freshner

action. Continuous action products include: scented candles and devices which use a candle frame or some other heat source to heat or vapourise a fragrant formulation.

Instant action systems are mainly aerosol sprays, or atomisers. The aerosol spray uses a propellant and fragrance packaged under pressure in a sealed metal or glass container with a valve which is opened by pressing down a button which contains a spray nozzle.

Air fresheners introduce fragrance into the air of interior spaces either as droplets which

translates to vapour or as the molecules of fragrance ingredient evaporating from a source. Fragrance diffuses into the air to mask other odors or to introduce a specific odor.

Automatic air fresheners, handheld room deodorizers, solid air fresheners, ozium odor neutralisers, aero air fresheners, air fresheners dispensers, gel air fresheners and bathroom air fresheners are all available to achieve that desired fragrance that you deserve.

•Rams on display at Ojuwoye Market, Mushin, Lagos

A breath of fresh air Looking for a way to spark up your home, office or environment? Air freshener will do it. They are affordable and available in your neighbourhood stores. ESTHER MOHAMMED writes.

A

IR fresheners are very affordable, but vary in types, fragrance, prices and sizes. They are sold in markets and stores in your neighbourhood.

Whether you are looking for a battery operated automatic metered spray air freshener system to deodorise your environment around the clock, natural air fresheners, hand held air fresheners, or you simply want a solid auto air freshener for your car, office, bathroom, reception, room, restroom, smoking area, kitchen or home, air fresheners have that touch of luxury to brighten your environment and give it a lasting fragrance.

Local air fresheners such as airwick cost N350. The automatic ones cost between N1, 500 to N2, 000.

Air fresheners are designed to deal with

household odor problems. The fragrances create a fresh and pleasant atmosphere in your immediate environment.

To transform your home to a great environment making you feel happy and joyous, air fresheners have a range of offerings to suit your specific needs. It is an affordable way to protect yourself against the harmful effects of indoor air pollution.

“Without air fresheners in my home, I always feel uncomfortable. I make sure I buy them at every shopping opportunity; this is because I can’t do without them, they make my home smell great”, said Mrs. Elizabeth Ahonsi who is of the view that air fresheners are a must for every home and environment.

Air fresheners typically emit sweet fragrance. There are two broad air freshener categories: continuous action and instant

THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

35

Mimicking kalo-kalo with coin dispensing ATMs

Reckitt Benckiser unveils Dettol 21 days of healthy hands habit campaign

I

N Nigeria 200,000 children under the age of five die every year due to Diarrhoea. 88 per cent of diarrhoeal deaths could be attributed to unsafe water, poor sanitation and hygiene.

Once again Dettol realising the importance of continuing these efforts in Nigeria is embarking on a 21 days campaign on the Global Hand Washing day, where they will reach people all over Nigeria with the message of washing their hands regularly for 21 days. Why 21 days because popular belief is that’s the time it takes to build a habit.

More over in order to increase participation of kids and families and make the habit of hand washing enjoyable Dettol has launched its Sound of Health Sound track which encourages children to wash and keep good hygiene to prevent illnesses (Visit: http://www.dettolghd.com/ for details of content and Participation) During these 21 days, Dettol will use its new ‘‘21 Days to a ‘Healthy Hands’ Habit campaign to intensify the hand hygiene awareness campaign using various media platforms such as out of home types comprising branded BRT buses, digital billboards as well as print and electronic media . These are all in addition to an interactive theme song which has been produced to promote the campaign.

Hand washing with soap is one of the world’s most cost-effective preventive health interventions and has been proven to reduce the risk of not only diarrhoea, but also some of its more severe manifestations, such as cholera and dysentery, by 48-59 percent. Regular hand washing with soap has also recently been shown to reduce pneumonia infections by 25% and levels of school absenteeism by between 20 and 50 per cent Dettol has been at the forefront of providing Health and Hygiene messages via its products to Nigeria for the last 50 years.

The company’s vision is to have a world where people are healthier and live better.

In a similar stride Dettol has been conducting mass programs to make a difference to the lives of Nigerians through the following initiatives: New Mum Program where they have reached 5 million moms since 2006 teaching them good hygiene habits for themselves and their new born babies; The Health on Wheels Program where they have reached 150, 000 families through mobile clinics; School Hand Hygiene Program in which they have reached almost a million kids this year across schools in Nigeria while a total of 3 million kids have been reached since they started the programme in 2009.

According to Reckitt Benckiser, many more Nigerians will be exposed to the message of regular hand washing thereby increasing mass awareness on the immense benefits of hand hygiene.

Commenting on the “21 Days to a ‘Healthy Hands Habit with Dettol” campaign, representative of the National President, Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Dr. Martins Momoh commended Reckitt Benckiser for the innovative concept. He said the adoption of a healthy hands habit through regular hand wash with soap and water will go a long way in combating many diseases that are caused by germs.

Also speaking, Deputy Director (Laboratory Services), Federal Ministry of Health, Mr. Oyebanji Oyenuga affirmed that incidence of communicable diseases in Nigeria and elsewhere will drastically reduce when people imbibe the habit of hand washing with soap and water.

“As a laboratory scientist of over 30 years, I can confidently say that the importance of regular hand washing with soap and water cannot be over-emphasized be-

cause the unseen germs that cause diseases in human body are real.” He noted that the campaign is well focused, and pledged the readiness of the federal ministry to partner with the company in any area it may desire.

Speaking in similar vein, the Director, Press and Public Relations, Special Duties Office of Secretary to the Government of Federation, Mrs Philomena Oshodin applauded Reckitt Benckiser and its flagship Dettol brand for blazing the trail in hand hygiene advocacy. She thanked the company for its unrelenting commitment to good health in Nigeria.

“Your efforts are in line with the Millennium Development Goals part of which is to reduce maternal and infant mortality.

With this kind of initiative, your support to government towards eradicating diseases and building a strong, healthy nation is immense. Thank you for the wonderful job that you are doing. We will certainly let government know what your company is doing”, she said.

Speaking at the media conference to unveil the campaign in Lagos, Ashok Bhasin, Managing Director, Reckitt Benckiser Nigeria Limited/General Manager, Reckitt Benckiser Central Africa Region, said the 21 days’ target is predicated on the research finding on human behaviour and attitudinal change to the effect that it takes a period of 21 days of consistently doing a particular thing to make it a habit. ‘‘Interestingly, the main focus of the hand washing campaign is to educate the children, who are the ‘agents of change’ to cultivate the habit of hand washing.

Dettol, the world’s no.1 antiseptic brand is renowned for protecting millions of families from germs globally. With its passion and commitment to health and hygiene, the 21 Days to a ‘Healthy Hands’ Habit with Dettol will further go a long way in improving the hand hygiene situation of millions of household in Nigeria and significantly help to reduce death arising from preventable diseases.

G

ONE are the days when slot machines popularly known as kalo-kalo was democratised in Lagos. Then, you do not have to visit a hotel casino to play the money game. Almost all the major streets in Lagos had jackpot shops. The game was as popular as Premier Lotto was (Baba Ijebu) is in Lagos today.

How time flies.

To play jackpot in Lagos today, you must be ready to visit a highbrow hotel. Jackpot has become exclusive game for the higher class. I hope lotto will not suffer similar fate in the future. I pray not. My prayer is not because of my love for the game. Rather the number of people lotto businesses have gainfully employed in the state. If you doubt my enthusiasm, take a census of the red-coloured PoS terminals at bus stops, market places, and open areas in Lagos.

I remember my first and last slot machine game at a corner shop in Mushin, Lagos. It was a wet evening in November 1986. I had always been tempted to enter the jackpot shop whenever, a passed through this particular street. This day I decided to look at what was going on in the shop. Alas, I met three drunk elderly men in the shop playing the monies game.

The first thing that attracted me was the flashing lights. The light was on each of the machines. The machine were carefully designed and installed to attract the players. After watching these elderly playing and packing many coins dispensed by the slot machines, my appetite grew the more. After a brief hesitation, I approached one of the slot machines; I put One Kobo coin into the coin slot and draw the handle. The machine did not dispense anything at the first two attempts.

However, on my third attempt, the machine dispensed 20 coins in One Kobo denominations.

At that point, I became very greedy and wanted to win more. I slotted my entire jackpot and remaining 70k on me but the machine refused to dispense again. I became very sad with myself.

As I was stepping out of the shop, my big cousin sighted me and he shook his head. Two days, later he asked me of my experience at the casino. He asked me if I want to be like the men, I met at the shop playing the game, of which my answer was negative. That was how

my cousin talked me out of going to casino.

However, 26 years after, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) is making me to recollect my street education at the street corner casino. When I read it in the newspapers sometimes ago that the apex bank will facilitate the introduction of ATM that can dispense coins to encourage the citizens imbibe the culture of spending them, I immediately pictures myself drawing the slot machine handle.

The Head of Shared Services, CBN, Mr. Chidi Umeano had told the News Agency of Nigeria in Lagos that the plan was in tune with the currency restructuring exercise. He said the coins dispensing ATMs would hasten the acceptance of coins by Nigerians and change the misconception about their use.

Umeano said, “To achieve this plan, what is needed is to facilitate the inclusion of a process called ‘add-on’ to the ATMs. “Good enough, the existing ATMs have the add-on feature that will easily make them adapt to coins dispensing.”

He said that the apex bank would ensure that newly deployed ATMs had the add-on‘ feature among others. Umeano said, “It is very possible to achieve Automated Teller Machines that will dispense coins. This add-on feature can be activated on the ATMs at any time by the CBN and this is not new because it is being practiced in advanced countries. “This proposal is in consonance with our cash-less policy and also in line with the CBN’s effort to encourage Nigerians to appreciate coins.”

To the best of my understanding, I do not see how cash machine whether note or coin dispensing complement cashless initiative. The cash-dispensing feature of an ATM has never been cashless friendly because it only stimulates the desire of consumers to use cash.

What cashless scheme entails are the end-toend cashless transactions that cut off the usage of cash in consumer purchases. This is the reason that Point of Sale (PoS) terminals and web are the preferred platforms for cashless initiatives. I think issue of coins dispensing ATMs is unnecessary distraction to the cashless initiative drive.

SOLA FANAWOPO, specialist communication analyst contributed this piece from Lagos

•Community Affairs Officer, Coca-Cola Nigeria Limited Emeka Mba (middle) and co-founder, Wecyclers Nigeria Limited Bilikis Adebiyi, presenting gift items to Eguchukwu Victoria, second highest recycling points scorer at the Wecyclers maiden redemption event sponsored by CocaCola in Surulere, Lagos.

*Editor - Wale Alabi *Consulting Editors - Rarzack Olaegbe, Sola Fanawopo * Correspondent-Jimi David * Business Development - Kenny Hussain * Legal Adviser - Olasupo Osewa & Co Brandweek is powered by Brandz Republic Consulting and published every Friday in THE NATION newspaper.

All correspondence to the editor - 0808.247.7806, 0805.618.0040, e-mail: korede2000@gmail.com © All rights reserved.

THE NATION FRIDAY,OCTOBER 26, 2012

36

COMMENTARY

FEMI ABBAS ON

T

HIS is the season of rains when water is everywhere but none for drinking. This is the season in which the sky opens up its generous bowl to pour down water in abundance. But the earth has no room to accommodate the gesture.

This is a period when plants and animals feel that their needs for survival have been grossly exceeded. The world is said to be flooded with water everywhere and humanity becomes restive. The bounties of Allah seem to be too much for the need of man. In Europe, Asia, Africa and America, the story is one and the same. The world is grappling with a deluge.

When this happens, the tendency is for the scientists to lay blame at the door on what they will call global warming. They will give many reasons including the depletion of the Ozone Layer as the cause.

But Muslims have no choice but to thank Allah and request for a moderation of His largess. This is the time to realise that moderation rather than excess of anything is the best in man’s life. In Islam, there is no cause or effect of a matter that is not known or cannot be controlled by Allah.

Whatever happens in the life of man is by His permission.

The world is like a queue. You enter it at a point and come out of it at another point. This is one major lesson which every Muslim has come to learn through the observance of daily prayers (Salat). In Salat alone where queues are essential, a lot of lessons are there to learn.

The very basic lesson to learn in Salat is hygiene. If you newly embrace Islam, you have to undergo a ritual bath called Ghuslu-s-Shahadah or Ghuslu-d-dukhul fil Islam. It is performed with water. When you want to observe any Salat, be it obligatory or supererogatory, you must perform ablution with water. This is called Wudu. If there is no water, you take to Tayammam (dry ablution). As a Muslim, after an intercourse with your spouse, you must perform a ritual bath called Ghuslul Janabah before you can observe any Salat. When a Muslim woman completes her monthly menstrual period she must perform a ritual bath called Ghuslul Haydah before she can resume observance of Salat. A Muslim woman who has just completed her blood-dripping period following child delivery must perform a ritual bath called Ghuslu-n-Nifas before she can resume observance of Salat. A newly born baby in Islam must be taken through a mandatory bath called Ghuslul Wiladah which is also done with water.

Muslim pilgrims must commence their Hajj or Umrah activities with a ritual bath called Ghuslul Hajj or Umrah at their respective Miqat before they enter the condition of Ihram. When a Muslim, male or female is dead, a ritual bath is performed on his or her body. This bath is called Ghuslul Janazah. Anybody who carries out a bath on a dead body must also undergo a ritual bath of purification called Ghuslut-Taharah mina-n-Najasah (bath for purifying self from filth). This is because a dead body in Islam is like a filth which must be disposed of as soon as possible before it starts to decompose and thereby constitute health hazard for the living. Whoever touches such filth has had a share of it and must therefore cleanse up before observing any Salat. Such a person cannot participate even in Salatul-Janazah on the body of the deceased person which he has just cleaned up until he has taken the purification bath.

Muslims are expected to clean up with water through ablution at least five times a day. And, as a prophetic tradition prescribes, they are also expected to perform ritual bath on Fridays in preparation for Salatul Jum’ah though such bath is Sunnah (optional) rather than Fard (obligation). Naturally, women, especially Muslim women utilise water much more than men. They are the ones who take care of the children and, in the process; they clean up for them many times a day. Besides, women are the ones who must clean up for menses every month. They are the ones who must clean up ritually after 40 days, following child delivery. They are the ones in charge of matrimonial kitchens where they use water day and night.

Thus, when the demography of women in any society is compared to that of men one can imagine the quantity of water consumed daily or weekly by women.

Given the fact that water plays a central role in the life of a Muslim therefore, two important conclusions can be reached. One is the fact that Islam is absolutely a reli-

Femabbas@yahoo.com 08122697498

Muslims and use of water

•Waterfall

gion of purity. And that is why Prophet Muhammad was reported to have said that “Allah is pure and He will not accept anything impure.” The second is that Muslims are the greatest consumers of domestic water in the world. This is because, besides using water socially, commercially or domestically like other human beings, an average Muslim uses additional one third of total water used by any non-Muslim on a daily basis.

It is therefore understandable why Muslims feel more worried when there is dryness and water cannot be easily accessed.

This is what led to the idea of a special prayer called ‘Salatul Istisqai’ (rain-seeking prayer). This prayer randomly observed by Muslims when shortage of water becomes acute cannot be observed with water ablution. It is a way of reconfirming to Allah that the main purpose of our existence on earth is to worship Him just as the purpose of keeping domestic animals is to serve man. Salatul Istisqai which is usually followed by heavy rainfalls is a major evidence of an existing covenant between Allah and His faithful servants. The wonderful effect of that Salat contradicts any scientific theory. Non-Muslim meteorologists have always wondered how possible it is for rain to fall at an impossible time, following a congregational prayer by some Muslim faithful in a locality or region. But to their amazement, they have regularly seen the potency of such prayer in bringing rain not only for Muslims but for all and sundry. The question is: ‘can any other religious group do same to the advantage of mankind? This one trillion Naira question is still begging for answer even almost one and a half millennia after the introduction of Salatul Istisqai as a bringer of rain.

That Salatul Istisqai actually brings rain even in a severely dry season remains a puzzle to unbelievers especially in the West who see everything, including God, as a

product of science.

I first took part in the observance of Salatul Istisqai in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), as a student in that country, in 1976. The two rakat prayer had hardly been concluded when rain started in torrents. It rained for nine hours continuously in that desert country and flooded the entire Emirates like the deluge incurred by Prophet Nuh (Noah) as contained in history. It took more than a week before normal social and commercial activities could fully resume. I have since participated in the same exercise twice thereafter in Nigeria and in Saudi Arabia. The effect of Salatul Istisqai is not necessarily immediate. At times, it may take a week or more before rain starts pouring. And, if, after some time, following the observance of Salatul Istisqai, rain does not come, the Salat can be repeated. Allah has a design for everything. He knows when rainfall will best serve the need of man. And in seeking such a favour, Muslims must not try to jump the gun.

During Hajj in 2007, when the weather became too dry to bear, the Saudi authorities called on all Muslim residents and pilgrims to rise up and cry to Allah for heavenly water through Salatul Istisqai.

Thus in cities like Madinah, Riyadh, Dammam, Dhahran, Yambu’, Jubail, Abha, Asir Taif and the likes, millions of Muslims, residents and pilgrims alike, queued up before the Almighty Allah, crying for water to come from heavens. The prayer was led from the great sanctuary of Makkah (Al- Haram) and I was a participant.

In the observance of Salatul Istisqai, any Imam who leads it is expected to recite Suratul Fatihah as often done in any other Salat. He follows it up with any other chapter or verses in the Qur’an but it is preferable that rain or water-related chapters or verses are recited. These recitations are done aloud. And they are followed by

‘Unknown to the non-Islamic world performance of Hajj every year is a great blessing to humanity rather than just a mere act of worship by Muslims. Hajj is the biggest congregation of human beings on earth. Allah loves and respects congregations of pious people who praise Him and pray to Him for the needs of the world’

emotional supplications made passionately to Allah while pleading for rainfall.

Any participant in such prayer is expected to be in a sober mood and be absolutely confident that the prayer would be accepted. The essence of raising one’s hands to Allah in prayer is to further confirm that there is no intermediary between man and Allah in worship and in prayer. Allah Himself emphasises this in the Qur’an by saying to Prophet Muhammad thus: “When my servants ask you about Me, tell them that I am very close to them. I accept the prayers of those who seek from Me but let such seekers expect the giving from Me alone; let them be confident in My ability to accept prayer so that they may be guided aright”. However, there is need to correct the wrong notion being spread around that dresses must be worn inside out by those who will partake in Salatul Istisqai. There is nothing like that in Islam.

The effect of Salatul Istisqai in bringing rains is just symbolic of all other prayers

by Muslims. No genuine Muslim prayer is ever turned down by Allah. Acceptance of prayer may not be exactly in accordance with human expectation, it may not be as promptly as man wants it but eventually, a Muslim will realise that his prayer has been accepted by Allah without an intermediary. Right now, about three million Muslims are performing Hajj in the Holy Land each of them using an average of 10 litres of water for Salat alone daily. And each will spend an average of one month in the Holy Land. This is happening in desert cities like Makkah and Madinah where no visible rivers flow.

Yet, water is abundantly available for everyone even at the height of over 110 floors in sky scraper buildings. How else can one feel the mercy of Allah?

Unknown to the non-Islamic world, performance of Hajj every year is a great blessing to humanity rather than just a mere act of worship by Muslims. Hajj is the biggest congregation of human beings on earth. Allah loves and respects congregations of pious people who praise Him and pray to Him for the needs of the world.

That congregation is essential for the continuity of human existence. There is no country in the world today without Muslim pilgrims joining their brethren from other parts of the world in requesting Allah to save the world from perishing.

And each year, as such prayers are accepted, the world is confirmed saved despite the evil moves of Yajuj and Ma’juj (Gog and Magog) as well as their agents who are ignorantly pursuing their own destruction every minute. Thus, like Salatul Istisqai which brings water to everybody and not Muslims alone, Hajj is to the benefit of mankind and not Muslims alone. Thus, its preservation must be ensured by everybody in the interest of continued human existence.

Without water, it will be difficult to observe Salat or to fast in Ramadan or to give Zakat or to perform Hajj. Without water, it will be impossible to bear children and bring them up, or to keep farms and sustain them. Water is life. But this is not for Muslims alone. The difference is that Muslims use part of the water to show gratitude to Allah by worshipping Him. Others use it for mundane life alone which is sheer vanity.

Knowledge is like water which softens the earth for seeds to germinate and for plants to be nourished to fruition. Knowledge in Islam is much more important than worship. No one can validly worship Allah without knowledge. And if for this reason alone, it should behove the entire Muslim Ummah of the world to join and cooperate in using water to worship Allah. That is the essence of knowledge.

It cannot be trivialised.

As this year’s Idul Adha comes up today, ‘The Message’ hereby congratulates our numerous readers for witnessing another festival wishing them many pleasant returns of it. But ‘The Message’ will be shirking its responsibility if it fails to comment on a fabricated Hadith now making the rounds. The so-called Hadith is quoted as saying that observance of Salatul Jum’at is not obligatory on whoever observes ‘Idul Adha on a Friday. This fabricated Hadith cannot be reasonably attributable to Prophet Muhammad (SAW). Salatul Adha is optional while Salatul Jum’ah is obligatory. It will therefore be unreasonable to quote Prophet Muhammad as expressing such an obnoxious Hadith. ‘Id Mubarak!

Kullu ‘Amin wa antum bilkhayr.

37

THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

SOCIETY 10TH ANNIVERSARY DINNER AND AWARD NIGHT OF THE CONVENANT UNIVERSITY AT OTA, OGUN STATE

•Bishop David Oyedepo and his wife Faith

•Vice-Chancellor Aize Obayan and her husband Tokunbo Obayan

•Chief Lea Aimiuwu and Opral Benson

•Bishop David Abioye and his wife

•From left: Dr Leke Rukoyi and his wife and Mrs Sola Rukoyi

•Godfrey Adeniyi and Pastor Beecroft Regent

•Justice Kunbi Oyefeso (left) and Dr Nkiru Danjuma

•Dr John Agunloye and Pastor Omama Edarie

•Mrs Aize Obayan and Olota of Ota Oba Alani Oyede

•Mr Itiola Adegboyega (left) and Mr Emmanuel Ojo

PHOTOS: SOLOMON ADEOLA

38

THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

SOCIETY The expansive Odundun Hall in Ile Oluji/Oke-Igbo Local Government of Ondo State was filled as Lagos accountant Alhaji Muftau Ottun buried his mother-in-law, the late Mrs Esther Bunade Ogunkamisi, in grand style. LEKE AKEREDOLU was there.

Farewell to a ‘loving mother’

I

T was a memorable passage for the late Mrs Bunade Ogunkamisi going by the encomiums showered on her by her children and in-laws.

Guests and family members engaged the pall bearers in various dance steps while ferrying her remains, in a golden casket, to the cemetery.

On the entourage were beautiful women decked in customised Ankara fabrics.

Though they sang elegy, they were elated at the passing on of mama to eternal glory.

The ancient town of Ile-Oluji accommodated people from all walks of life who trooped into the town to grace “Mama’s funeral that day.

The commendation service took place at the St. Peter Anglican Cathedral in Ile-Oluji where the Dean of the Cathedral, Venerable Olumide Akindoyeni, expressed the need for children to always obey the commandments of God by caring for their parents while alive.

The cleric also reminded parents of the need to place greater emphasis on the training of their

•Alhaji Ottun (right) with members of the deceased’s family

wards in the way of God Ven Akindoyeni urged them to provide them with sound moral and academic training to make them worthy citizens in future.

He praised the late Mrs Ogunkamisi, saying she spent her days in serving the Lord and also laid the right path for her children before she died.

The deceased’s remains were committed to mother earth at the Anglican Cemetery in Ile-Oluji in Ile-Oluji/Oke-Igbo Local Government Area of Ondo State.

After the interment, Odudun expansive hall became the next port of convergence.

Guests wine and dine with choice of foods and drinks in a

lighter and jubilating atmosphere.

Families, friends, as well as acquaintances, camped under different seats savoured the friendly weather of the day, which is calm and cool.

Mrs. Ogunkamisi first’s son, Oluseyi in his tribute said his mother lived a virtuous life.

He wrote: “One can find solace in the knowledge that your passage to the world beyond does not call for mourning, but for thanksgiving to God for the beauty of your life.

“You are a woman of virtue, peaceful, loving and hardworking, you love your God and your family without reservation and brought us up in like

manner, mummy you have fought the good fight because to me you have completed your assignment here on earth and has now gone to sleep in the bosom of our Lord, you will be sorely missed by all especially my children”.

The deceased’s son-in-law, Alhaji Muftau Ottun, said she lived a fulfilled life, stressing that her prayers had brought a great joy to the family.

“She was not a mother-in-law, but a mother to me. Since I met her, she had been playing the role of a mother; I will remember her for the motherly love, care and advice she gave to me and my family. We love her,” he stated.

Ottun’s wife Alhaja Modupe de-

scribed her mother as a teacher, who, according to her, created the channel that gave her the opportunity to be a great person in life.

“Your virtue has been my watchword and I will always remember the lesson of life you thought me and the love and kindness you showered on your grandchildren. You ensured that I did not let you down, you were supportive. I am, indeed, very grateful to God for the life you lived. I will miss you.”

At the event were the Deputy Editor of The Nation Newspapers, Mr Lawal Ogienagbon; Mr Gbenga Ojo; Mr Yemi Ojo; Wasiu Bawallah; Alhaji Ganiyu Eleha and Gafar Sulaiman, among others.

Dignitaries thronged the KIO Event Centre, Lagos for the marriage between former Miss Ufoma Abosede Johnson, a Nicomsat, Abuja official and Olanrewaju Elegbede, who works at the National Agency for the Prohibition of Traffic in Persons and Other Related Matters (NAPTIP). ABIKE ADEGBULEHIN writes.

•

•The couple flanked by (from left) bride’s father Mr Johnson; groom’s mum Mrs Elegbede; groom’s dad Mr Elegbede and bride’s mother Mrs Johnson

T

HE hall was filled to capacity; it was the engagement of former Miss Ufoma Abosede Johnson, a Nicomsat, Abuja official and Olanrewaju Elegbede, who works at the National Agency for the Prohibition of Traffic in Persons and Other Related Matters (NAPTIP).

Members of the groom’s family, led by a middle woman (Alaga Iduro) introduced themselves to the bride’s family in a humorous way.

The groom, Olanrewaju, looked charming in his native attire. He was accompanied by his friends who looked handsome in their outfits He was introduced formally to his bride’s family amid prayers from both families.

An elated Olanrewaju was joined by his friends to observe the ritual prostration before he was led to the bridal chair.

The guests stretched their necks to catch a glimpse of the beautiful bride, Ufoma, who looked radiant in her attire. She was the cynosure of all eyes as she acknowledged greetings from friends and families amid dancing.

She knelt to greet her husband’s family and was helped up by her mother-in-law, who

Union of lovebirds rained prayers on her.

She was asked to pick the most treasured gift from all the things brought by her husband’s family, she picked the Holy Bible and all prayed for her to have a happy home where the Lord will be the head of the family.

The celebration continued the next day at the new Covenant Baptist Church, Ijaiye- Ojokoro, Lagos for the holy matrimony.

The solemnisation started with the processional hymn, which was led by Ademola Nuga.

Committing the wedding to the hands of God, the opening prayer was said by Deaconess Duntan Oyegoke.

The solemnisation featured exhortation, charge, declaration, joining and blessing, special prayer for the couple, hymn of prayer, and proclamation of marriage.

The Zion Choir, TNCBC Ojokoro led the church in a special song.

The officiating ministers, led by Revd Israel

Akanji, urged the couple to know that marriage without God is an empty investment in life.

The clerics urged them to be patient with each other and allow love to radiate in their home.

“In marriage, husband and wife are one, and must have everything together; a new life has begun today. So, you should know that you have another piece of you at all time somewhere; love and do to one another what you would do to yourself, you are now one flesh,” Revd Akanji said.

Shortly after, he declared them husband and wife, the marriage register was signed.

Afterwards, a photograph session was held in the church’s compound.

The train returned to the KIO Event Centre, Ojokoro, for the reception.

The hall was tastefully decorated.

Amid beautiful songs, the couple danced their way into the expansive hall.

Some of the guests joined them on the dance

PHOTO: SOLOMON ADEOLA

floor.

There were lots to drink and eat from small chops to varieties of food and drinks.

The reception featured goodwill messages, cutting of the cake, toast and throwing of the bouquet.

The couple fed each other with a piece of cake after cutting the cake.

The bride, Ufuoma, described her husband as “a lovely, wonderful and caring person.”

“I am so happy I am getting married to this wonderful man, and I know he is God’s perfect plan for me,” she said.

The groom, Olanrewaju, described her as “beautiful, kind hearted and a person with great personality.”

The groom’s mother, Mrs Elegbede, urged the couple to make God the centre of their marriage.

She prayed God to bless their union with wonderful children.

The bride’s mother, Mrs Johnson, described the day as joyous “I pray that this marriage shall yield fruits,” she said.

THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

39

SOCIETY

•From left: Hon Shittu; Hon Hassan; Otunba Femi Odubiyi and Chief Okusanjo

•Members of Twelve Brothers Club displaying their plaque

A celebration with elegance The grand finale of the annual Olumodi Day festival of Imodi-Ijebu, Ogun State held at the Market Square attracted scores of indigenes and dignitaries from the country and overseas, writes TAJUDEEN ADEBANJO

M

EN and women, young and old, across religions, professions and political divides, indigenes and non indigenes were clad in uniform purple Ankara fabric.

Like a carnival atmosphere, they converged on the ever busy Market Square as early as 9am.

The youths competed with one another, dancing to the music played by a Disk Jockey (DJ) and a band stand.

The elders were entertained by itinerant drummers who eke out new naira notes for themselves.

Traditional caps and headgears adorned the heads of male and female dignitaries.

Scores of commercial motorcycles and cabs from other communities shifted their business to the area.

Welcome to Imodi-Ijebu, an agrarian suburb in Ogun State.

The Olumodi Day, Imodi townspeople’s principal festival which holds yearly has come and gone but the memory lingers.

Expectedly, the event afforded indigenes of the town resident in the state, within Nigeria and abroad the opportunity to assess the town’s development and plan to consolidate progress for the coming years.

About noon, various clubs had mounted their canopies. Soon after, the Council of oloritus and chiefs made a gallant entry.

For over 32 years, the town has been marking the day in an elaborate manner with high profile personalities invited to catch fun and merriment.

The week-long activities began with a quiz, debate and cultural competition. It featured environmental sanitation, road maintenance, walk for life, draught competition, special Jumat

service, football competition and church thanksgiving.

The high-points of the events were Ikokore/ artist variety night and the grand finale which featured award presentations for organisations and individuals who are outstanding in uplifting the community.

At the Ikokore night, the special delicacy of the Ijebus was prepared. A theatre group with link to the late doyen of theatre in Nigeria, the late Hubert Ogunde, stage a special performance.

The event began as soon as the principal guests from outside the town arrived in various posh cars and Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs).

There were recitation of the national anthem, Ogun State anthem, Imodi traditional anthem and the Imodi Community Development Association (ICDA) anthem.

ICDA chairman Alhaji Olumide Olufowobi welcomed the guests to the event.

Olufowobi, a lecturer at The Polytechnic, Ibadan, said the ceremony has played a huge role in changing the face of the community.

He called on all Imodians to brace-up to the future challenges.

“The truth is that our neighbours will not wait for us as this is a competitive world. We should as a matter of urgency come together to chart a new order and put solid structures on ground before shifting blame on innocent souls in future.

There should not be crying over spilled milk hence we must plan not to fail this town.

Candidly, our time is now and not tomorrow,” he said.

The Olumodi of Imodi, Chief Adebisi Lawal described this year’s event as spectacular.

•Alhaji Olufowobi flanked by his wife Alhaja Bola (left) and Alhaja Sikirat Odeyemi

•CEO Pebbles Suit Mr Sam Adebanjo

•An awardee Chief Ibrahim Adam

Represented by Chief Moruf Okusajo, the town’s paramount ruler urged all indigenes of the town to give priority to its development.

He wished them continuous success in their various endeavours.

Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun was represented by a member of the state House of Assembly, Hon Remi Hassan.

Amosun praised the community for sustaining the festival over the years.

He canvassed support for his administration.

An elated Chairman of Odogbolu Local Government Hon Hameed Shittu could not hide his joy.

Shittu congratulated the community on the successful celebration.

Engineers honour icon with book The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) has honoured its past President, Samuel Olatunde Fadahunsi with a book at a colourful ceremony in Lagos, NNEKA NWANRI reports.

T

HEY came decked in their agbadas. Traditional regalia of all sorts were on display. Such was the turnout of men and women who graced the ocassion.

Their regalia spoke of fashion and affluence.

It was a gathering of who is who in Nigerian engineering as the Environment Division of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) launched the book entitled: Engineering and the challenges of the Environment.

The book was in honour of a man they consider an icon in the engineering field, Mr Samuel Olatunde Fadahunsi.

Armed security personnel hovered over the venue, ensuring there was tranquillity and orderliness.

The Banquet Hall of Airport Hotel, Ikeja, venue of the event, came alive and was filled to capacity with dignitaries, especially from the engineering sector that came to celebrate one

of their own.

It was colourfully decorated in green, red, white and blue. Lightening decorations added some spark to the arena.

The height of the occasion was the unveiling of the book by former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo.

Obasanjo, who was the special guest of honour, led the guests. He praised Fadahunsi, describing him as an upright man who has over the years refused to tolerate corruption.

Chief Obasanjo was at his usual sarcastic ebb.

He joked about the personality of the celebrator, making jokes out of the situation on ground as attendees couldn’t help but laugh.

Snapping out of the jokes, the former president recalled that even while the celebrator was in charge of land allocation and had access to allocate land for himself and his family, he never did that; noting that Fadahunsi contributed largely to the engineering

•From right: Mr Johnson; Mr Onyeri ; Chief Obasanjo; Mrs Iyabo Fadahunsi, her husband Chief Samuel and Mr Adebayo Fari

sector and the upgrade of the environment in particular.

Earlier in his welcome address, the chairman of NSE’s Environment Division, Peter Onyeri said the book came in handy and timely having considered the serious threat posed by climate change, which has unleashed devastating flood in many parts of the country.

As Onyeyi spoke, many hummed and nodded in concurrence. It was a solemn moment.

“As we gather here today many homes and engineering infrastructure

are submerged in flood water and the future is very bleak with all sorts of ‘waste’ threatening to exterminate us,” he added.

Reviewing the book, Mr I.K. Inuwa, praised Fadahunsi, commending him for being very instrumental to the amendment of the law establishing Council of Registered Engineers (COREN). It was gathered that the article of the NSE was drafted under his leadership.

“For many years he had remained the guiding light for the leadership of the society ensuring that NSE remained relevant in the scheme of

things.

“It was also during Chief Fadahunsi’s tenure as COREN President, that COREN was able to undertake visits to accredit universities offering engineering courses not only in Nigeria but also abroad,” he said.

Inuwa, an engineer, described the celebrator as a thoroughly detribalised Nigerian who would never speak his native language, Yoruba but English once he noticed that a person in a group did not understand Yoruba out of respect for the individual.

THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

40

SOCIETY AT THE COMMENDATION SERVICE FOR THE LATE PA THOMAS AKINYEMI AROGUNDADE IN IJEBU-IJESA, OSUN STATE

•Son of the deceased Lanre and his wife, Sola Arogundade greeting Bishop Adebiyi

•Bashir and the deceased’s daughter Olamide Oso

•Son of the deceased Ayodele Arogundade and wife Titi

•Deceased’s daughter Desola and Kehinde Onipede

•The eldest daughter of the deceased Titi and Feyi Ekundare

•From left: Mr Bola Agbola; Mr Dotun Ayoade; Mrs Funmi Ayoade and Mrs Dupe Olumorin

•Mrs Nihinlola Aluko-Olokun (right) and others •From left: Chief Segun Ogunsanwo; Mrs Ogunsanwo; Mrs Oduyeru; Mr Oduyeru and President Nigeria Guild of Editors Mr Gbenga Adefaye

•From left: Mr Goke Odeyinka; Bayo Ogunlana; and Femi Aborisade

•Mr Segun Sango and Abiodun Owonikoko (SAN)

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THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

43

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

POLITICS THE NATION

E-mail:- politics@thenationonlineng.net

The House of Representatives has suspended all legislative activities in the Kogi State House of Assembly, following the impeachment of the Speaker and other principal officers in a manner that has been described as unconstitutional. In this report, VICTOR OLUWASEGUN and DELE ANOFI present how the House arrived at the decision.

Kogi Assembly: In whose interest is Reps’ intervention?

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HE decision of the House of Representatives to intervene in the Kogi State House of Assembly crisis has been variously interpreted by many people- lawyers, lawmakers and academics.

Some think it is a timely intervention and an effort to save democracy from alleged executive gangsterism; others see it as meddlesomeness by the lawmakers. They argue that the House has no power to stop the Kogi Assembly from sitting.

The House on October 17, constituted a panel to investigate the crisis in the Kogi State Legislature that led to the removal of Speaker Abdullahi Bello and 10 other principal officers. According to the House of Representatives, the state is currently battling ecological problems caused by the recent flood and cannot afford another crisis in the form of a political crisis.

Relying on powers purportedly confered on the House of Representatives by Section 11(4), members were unanimous in their decision on the need to urgently address the crisis before it spiraled out of control.

Deputy Speaker Emeka Ihedioha noted that it would be unjust to debate the issue without hearing from all the parties concerned in the impeachment saga. For him, setting up a committee that would listen to all sides of the matter through an interaction with the Kogi Assembly was the right thing to do.

He said the committee would have to, among other things, unravel what led to the removal of the Speaker and other principal officers. This, he said, would enable the House make an informed decision.

Those named by Ihedioha, at plenary that day as part of the Kogi intervention team were: Deputy Chief Whip Ahmed Mukhtar Mohammed (Kaduna PDP) who was the leader of the panel. Other members of the committee are: Hassan Ibrahim El-Sudi, Sokonte Davis, Pally Iriase, Nkem Abonte, Ali Ahmad and Adams Jagaba.

The thinking of the House was that the unfolding scenario in the state was inimical to the growth of democracy. A member of the committee, Iriase, who spoke with The Nation, defended the decision of the House.

According to him, the era of military tendencies in politics was over. Besides, he noted that the panel was a fact finding committee and it was not meant to go to Kogi State to apportion blames but to find out the different sides to the crisis and forge a way out of it.

He said the way the Kogi Speaker and the other principal officers were removed was sending a wrong signal to the other State Houses of Assembly and that it may, if not nipped in the bud, lead to a corrup-

• Tambuwal

• Bello

Kogi assembly: divided, fractured

H

From Muhammad Bashir, Lokoja

OW legal is the closure of the troubled Kogi State House of Assembly by the National Assembly Ad-hoc Committee on Kogi State House Assembly Matter? This poser has been agitating minds since legislative activities were put in abeyance by the higher legislature.

The chairman of the committee, Hon. Mukhtar Mohammed Ahmed, said the committee had already got permission from the Inspector General of Police to beef up security to forestall breakdown of law and order. He explained that the plenary had to be suspended until after the submission of the committee’s report to the National Assembly, assuring that they were poised to carry out a thorough job.

The lawmaker further stressed the need for the members of the Assembly to fully co-operate with them, disclosing that the constitution mandates them to take over the affairs of the House if the matter remained unresolved.

Backing the decision of the committee, Hon. Saidu Akawu Salihu of Koton Karfe State Constituency in Kogi State, maintained that Section 11 of the 1999 Constitution empowers the House to rise to such an occasion.

According to him, it is a good thing that the National Assembly waded into the issue, as such had averted a crisis capable of consuming the assembly and the state in general.

Salihu who described the decision as ‘a stitch in time that saves nine’ equally urged the people of the state to support the action so that illegality would not thrive to their detriment.

The legislator, who belongs to the camp of the impeached Speaker, Hon. Abdullahi Bello, described the committee’s action as legal, adding that the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is uppermost.

Speaking in the same vein, Hon Funsho Daniel, representing Mopa/ Muro Constituency in the state, told The Nation that the committee’s action was right. He added that the House would have been in turmoil without the decision. According to him, “We respect the rule of law, “The law is made by man, not spirit. We made the law and therefore we must abide by it.” Hon Daniel, also a supporter of the impeached Speaker, Friday Sanni Makama, however, described the action of the adhoc committee as illegal and an affront the rule of law. While commending Senator Olorunnibe Mamora for condemning the act, Makama said there was nowhere in the World an ad-hoc committee of a National Assembly would suspend state Assembly proceedings. tion of Nigeria’s young democracy.

“The era of impunity is gone, we have a constitution that guides our ways and we, as legislators that have sworn to defend the constitution must be seen to do the right thing. This is a constitutional matter, we have done what we are supposed to do.

“The question over whether we would need concurrence with the Senate or

According to Makama, an ad-hoc committee, since it is not a standing committee, can only go for fact-finding mission and subsequently report back to the larger House, but not shutting down the state Assembly’s activities.

He argued that the National Assembly is only empowered to invoke Section 11 of the Constitution in a case where a state Assembly ceases to function. He said: “The National Assembly, under the section, shall take over the function of the state Assembly in a situation where the Assembly ceases to exist. They have the power to legislate for the state, but the Subsection 1-2 of Section 11 denies them the right to impeach the governor or his deputy.

“But in the case of Kogi State Assembly, there is nowhere in the constitution that says an ad-hoc committee shall suspend the activities of the state Assembly.”

He accused the committee of having concluded its investigation before coming to the state for the fact finding. “To show that the committee had already concluded its judgment, before visiting the state, they had asked the Inspector General of Police to seal up the assembly and thank God, the Chairman of the committee announced it at the floor of the House. I have never seen such a thing before. How can you conclude a case you have not even commenced investigating?” He asked.

“The state Assembly had not been sitting for three months despite the need for an emergency sitting. The House did not call for emergency sitting during the killing of a Deeper Life Bible Church worshiper, and the flood that ravaged the state, which of course drew the attention of the entire world; yet, Section 11 was not invoked. It is only when we decided to change our leadership that Section 11 is invoked; it is laughable,” Makama added.

Also speaking, the newly elected Speaker, Hon. Jimoh Lawal, added that Section 11 could only be invoked when a House is in crisis, saying that there was no crisis in the House, but an inevitable change of leadership.

He said that the impeached Speaker, who is his brother from the same Okene Local Government area, should come and join hands with him to steer the affairs of the House, rather than going the other way. According to him, he supported Bello when he (Bello) held sway as speaker, wondering why such a gesture should not be reciprocated.

However, the state Commissioner of Police, Muhammad Musa Katsina, told The Nation that his men never sealed up the state Assembly Complex, explaining that he only beefed up security to forestall any breakdown of law and order based on available intelligence report and a letter written to his office over a planned move to create havoc in the Assembly Complex.

whether we had not completed our assignment before suspending the House, it does not matter at this time. We have to do what we do first and if it is illegal, we have to be proved wrong.

“All we are doing at this time is to arrest the situation before it degenerates, which we think is about deepening democracy. If at all we have overreacted,

then it must be seen in the light of us working in the interest of the our democracy”.

The lawmaker, who brought the issue of the impeachment of the Kogi State Speaker before the House, Honourable Osai Osai (Delta PPDP), has said members should condemn the action.

The embattled Speaker, Abdullahi Bello, • Continued on page 44

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THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

POLITICS

Kogi Assembly: In whose interest?

• Continued from page 43

had already declared that his removal was unconstitutional. According to him, the number of members that impeached him was not up to the number required constitutionally.

The Minority Leader of the Kogi Assembly, Yori Afolabi, had also alleged that the executive arm was enticing members with a sum of N15 m to oust the leadership of the assembly.

Bello, some weeks before his impeachment had raised the alarm that there was conspiracy against him by some members who were angling for his removal.

When the House committee got to Kogi State, it immediately set to work, on meeting with the feuding parties, suspended legislative activities of the House until further notice.

The chairman of the committee, Hon. Mukhtar Mohammed said the move became inevitable after discussions with contending groups in the matter.

Thirteen members from the embattled Speaker’s camp and three members from the opposing side that carried out the impeachment attended the meeting with the National Assembly adhoc committee.

According to Mohammed, the plenary had to be suspended for now until after the submission of the committee’s report to the National Assembly, assuring that they were poised to do a thorough job. While he emphasized that the State assembly have to fully cooperate with the federal legislators, Mohammed reminded the state legislators that the constitution mandated them to take over the affairs of the House if the matter remained unresolved.

“Our concern in the matter was purely the process of the impeachment and not what led to the removal of the speaker, the document specifying how the nation should be governed must be protected,” he added..

Of course this would not be the first time the House of Representatives would be intervening in the crisis of a State House of Assembly. It did the same thing during the crisis that engulfed the Ogun State House of Assembly which was shutdown by the the Governor Gbenga Daniels.

On October 14, 2010, a motion was sponsored by Chairman, House Committee on Rules and Business, Ita Enang and 16 others, entitled: Inability of the Ogun State House of Assembly to perform its Constitutional duties.

It resolved that if the InspectorGeneral defaulted in reopening

• Wada

the Assembly, “the National Assembly should take over, assume and exercise all the legislative powers of Ogun House of Assembly to make laws as the legislature thereof in accordance with Section 11(4) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 until the House of Assembly is able to resume its functions”.

The prayers were adopted without amendment as Enang quoted Section 305 (1) of the Constitution, which gives the President the power to declare a state of emergency in any state.

Section 305 (1) states “Subject to the provisions of this Constitution, the President may, by instrument published in the official gazette of the Government of the Federation, issue a proclamation of a state of emergency in the Federation of any part thereof”.

According to the lawmaker, the Assembly formally sat last on June 29 and received this year’s Supplementary Budget proposal and requested for approval of a N100 billion bond from the governor and adjourned plenary to embark on annual recess.

In addition, he pointed out that when the Assembly reopened on August 3, it was invaded by protesters, which forced the Assembly to adjourn sine die since peace has been disrupted.

He also pointed out that he Speaker sent a notice to the Clerk to send to members, urging the Assembly to be reconvened by the Speaker, Tunji Egbetokun.

Osun deputy governor urges women to join politics T

HE Osun State Deputy Governor, Mrs. Titi Laoye-Tomori, has charged women in the state to rise above the primitive idea of gender discrimination and assume leadership positions, saying politics is no longer the exclusive preserve of men.

She said: “I am calling the attention of womenfolk to the need to take active interest in governance and the political processes of their immediate environment, i.e. ward levels, local governments, federal constituencies, and the State platform respectively.”

She gave the charge at the Women Participation in Politics and International Day for Rural Women Rally held at the Leisure Spring Hotel, Osogbo, Osun State capital.

Calling on women to partake in politics and to see it as a higher calling, she, however, warned that they should not see joining politics as a license for them to indulge in untoward behaviour, which she said could tarnish human character.

She said: “In politics, when character is lost, everything is lost. This rally is about sensitising women to take their rightful position in the society, and not a call to rebel, or chant war songs against timeless traditions, such as family and relational values and usages. The time has come for women in the state of Osun in particular, to rise above the primitive idea of gender discrimination.

From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

“Politics is no longer the exclusive preserve of men. What a man can do, a woman can, and sometimes does it better.

However, to achieve our goal of equal participation in the governance processes, we need two key ingredients. First, we must be fairly educated.”

Otunba Laoye-Tomori said the implementation of the 35 percent Affirmative Action Policy about gender parity will remain elusive until the majority or every girl-child in the

‘Delta State ACN not in crisis’

A

CHIEFTAIN of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) Mr. Amechi Omagbeshi Ogbonnia at the weekend debunked the report of a crisis looming in the Delta State chapter of the party, describing the report as mere blackmail.

Ogbonnia who was reacting to a newspaper report that the party was in disarray, said it is intact at the ward, local government and state executive levels.

Ogbonnia said, “The Chairman of the party, Chief Adolor Okotie-Eboh, was a founding member of the PDP who contested for the senate and the party state chairman of the party but was frustrated by the former governor, Chief James lbori and having seen PDP as a conservative party, left it for the ACN where he rose to the posi-

From Polycarp Orosevwotu, Warri

tion of the State Chairman.”

“We have even seen that the person who wrote the report is not a member of ACN but from Democratic Peoples Party (DPP), so it is surprising that a non member could make comments about a party and l see what he has written as blackmail on the person of Chief Adolor Okotie-Eboh, a son of a former minister of Finance and Labour.”

“The likes of Dr. Veronica Ogbuagu, Professor Eferakeya Adegor and others that the report favours are those not working in the interest of ACN in the Delta Central and the state al large and l am calling on them to repent, change their attitude towards the party so that they can join us as progressives

that we have always be instead causing disunity among members” Ogbonnia also said that the leadership of Chief Adolor Okotie-Eboh is recognised at the national level of the ACN party, pointing out that he was one of the members that attended the party’s retreat in Ghana recently as published by Ghana’s magazine. He said there was no time the leadership of Chief Okotie-Eboh was used as stooge by the ruling party or at any time sold out to PDP, describing the report as blackmail.

He alleged that Ogbuagu, Prof.

Adego and others wanted to hijack the leadership of the party but said that when they could not succeed, decided to take measures like blackmail to tarnish the image of the existing state executive headed by Chief Adolor Okotie-Eboh

Legislator cautions agencies on death penalty

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HE Chairman, House of Rep resentatives Committee on Judiciary, Dr Ali Ahmad has cautioned international agencies

• Vice President Namadi Sambo Muhammed with Secretary to the Government of the Federation Senator Anyim PHOTO: AKIN Pius Anyim at the Federal Executive Council meeting in Abuja. ..Wednesday OLADOKUN

• Mrs Laoye-Tomori

state is educated.

“Gladly, the Aregbesola-led administration has made this effectively possible in the state of Osun. I plead with you all; let us send our wards to school.

Economic empowerment of individual and the collectives, become easier with modest education. The focus of this rally is to join other countries of the world in the celebration of the rural women.

“Here in the State of Osun, we know the worth of our rural women and we appreciate you all. We are aware that majority of our people are farmers. It then follows that the fight against hunger and poverty, which is one of the cardinal agenda of this administration, would not have been successful without the active participation of our rural women. As we celebrate this year’s Rural Women Day, I enjoin all to take advantage of the Aregbesola-led administration’s benevolence,” she said.

The deputy governor declared that the six-point agenda of the Rauf Aregbesola administration is about economic empowerment of the people cum radical transformation of the socio-political landscape of the state of Osun.

In her welcome speech, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Mrs. Mofolake Adegboyega, enjoined women to support the present government in the state to improve the qualitity of lives of the people of the state.

From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

from meddling into the affairs of Nigeria concerning its death penalty law.

Ahmad therefore threw his weight behind the Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole’s recent approval of the execution of two condemned prisoners in the state.

He asked the international agencies opposed to the decision to allow Nigeria implement its law “since death penalty is still part of Nigeria’s legal document.”

The lawmaker told reporters in Ilorin, Kwara State shortly after donating a transformer and electrical poles worth about N5 million to Duma community, Oja-gboro, Ilorin and a block of three classrooms to Isale-Asa LGEA Primary School, Ilorin.

He added that the position of the House of Representatives on the controversial issue is that, “Edo Governor was right to sign the execution of the two condemned prisoners”.

Ruling out arbitrariness in the decision of the Edo State governor, Ahmad noted that the same governor had granted two condemned

prisoners amnesty and commuted the sentence of one other into life jail, adding that, “two others whose execution order is causing ripples were said to have committed grievous offence which precludes them from governor’s leniency”.

He added: “The position of the House is that death penalty is still part of our law in Nigeria and anybody that is saying that death penalty should not be carried out is saying that the law of the country should not be implemented. So, on that core, I disagree with them.

“On a personal note as a lawyer, let me put a caveat that for now, I support death penalty in principle, because those who oppose it do so in principle. What they say is that death penalty is an inhuman punishment but we disagree with them.”

“I think the problem is that they take hook, line and sinker whatever comes to them through the West just like the same-sex marriage; they want to push it through our throat and say that we should legislate and legalize same-sex marriage because it is there in America or whatever country,” he further said.

THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

45

Almajiris acquire skills in Katsina •Continued from Page 17 ernment’s education drawing board since the inception of his administration in 2007.

He explained that it will take time for government to effectively execute an important programme of this nature; it requires adequate planning to ascertain wha is involved.

He revealed that N36m will be spent on the programme monthly in the first phase that would last six months, after which the programme will be assessed for possible expansion to other schools in the state.

Shema said: “Our intention is that we should be able to promote effective teaching and practice of Islamic knowledge among the youth to inculcate the fear of God in the children.

“You are aware that this administration always put education and acquisition of knowledge as the first priority of the government. That is why we will never stop propagating western education and Islamic education as both can always go together.

The Commissioner for Education, Prof. Aminu Kurfi, said in order to properly educate the youthful Almajiri to make more impact in the society, government has decided to promote Quoranic education alongside western instruction.

He said he drew inspiration from the state governor, urging him to continue with his effective leadership. The commissioner added that the governor has made Katsina the first state in the North to devise a workable solution to the Almajiri challenge.

Kurfi said the Shema administration has constituted a committee that visited and assessed Quoranic schools before determining that feeding and •Continued from Page 17 that was already traumatised by flood, which destroyed houses and vast farmlands as well as livestock.

The pandemonium resulting from the blasts has refused to leave Jalingo people, who have now moderated their operations, especially at night.

It would be recalled that on April 30, a bomber rode on a motorcycle and hit the convoy of the former state Commissioner of Police, Mr. Mamman Sule.

At least 11 persons were killed in the early morning suicide attack, which appeared to be targeted at the police chief who was newly redeployed to Jalingo. Twenty persons were seriously injured, including a police corporal Usman

•Beneficiaries of the food and clothing plan at 10 Makarantun Allo in Daura clothing the pupils would drastically dren go out begging because of hun- state. Also, our Almajiri who go about reduce the Almajiri menace in the ger and poverty of their parents, but in search of food while studying in state. he added that change has come since their respective Qur’anic schoosls also Senior Special Assistant to Gover- the state government is now feeding, totalled 460,212 pupils”.

Gambarawa insisted that the state nor Shema on Almajiri Affairs, clothing and providing vocational government feed-the-children proMallam Lawal Mani Gambarawa, ex- training. pressed appreciation for the pilot proThe SSA said: “In Katsina State zone, gramme is in the right direction to gramme which is likely to be ex- we have 3,023 Qur’anic schools just as put an end to excruciating suffering tended to thousands of similar we have 2,689 schools in Daura and and begging among the Allo school Qur’anic schools in the state.

2,653 schools in Funtua, making a to- pupils as it would also ameliorate the Gambarawa said the Almajiri chil- tal of 8,365 Qur’anic schools in the prevailing insecurity in the northern

states and indeed Nigeria.

He therefore called for the co-operation of everyone to make the progamme succeed, as the government cannot unilaterally drive it.

Gambarawa appealed to the wellto-do and the entire Muslim community to support the Allo Model School programme as its success will enhance co-existence in the north and entire country.

Taraba grapples with flood, blasts Suleiman who was the outrider on the commissioner’s convoy. The bomber was also blown up by the blast that sent the city to sleep as soon as it woke up for the day’s activities.

There was another bombing on May 11. Although, there were no casualties, the panic paralysed the economic and social life of the once peaceful people. Two suspected bombers reportedly drove past a police van before dropping an explosive. It was gathered that the timing was miscalculated, so the bomb exploded a few seconds after the police van had passed the scene.

After those bombings, the terror-

ists changed tactics: in the last blasts, they struck at night.

The flood is a different disaster.

President Goodluck Jonathan has visited the camps of flood disaster victims in Taraba. He was in Lau, where seven people died.

The president cheered up the people, saying flood is a natural disaster, which ravages even developed nations.

“My personal residence is now under water,” he told the people.

Jonathan put Taraba in category B’, alongside Jigawa, Kano, Bauchi, Kaduna, Niger, Nasarawa, Cross River, Edo, Lagos and Imo states in the ranks of desolation by flood.

•Members of Opute Descendants Wives Association (ODEWA), Lagos, a community development and charity organisation, at the GBI Orphanage in Ebedei, Ukwuani Local Government of Delta State, with their cash, provisions and other gifts to the facility

But Commissioner for Information, Mr. Emmanuel Bello said Taraba was relegated in the grouping.

“We have the worst scenario of the flood disaster and ought to have been in category A or even A plus”, he said, explaining that the longest stretch of River Benue is found in the hinterlands of Taraba which caused devastations that many people especially passers-by have not seen.

Executive Secretary, State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Nuvalga Dan Habu, said “10 persons were drowned in Karim-Lamido, seven died in Lau, while two perished in Gassol.

Twelve persons are still missing; 28,139 persons have been displaced”.

It was gathered that a bridge and 50 culverts collapsed to the flood even as 13 roads were either submerged or covered by debris, affecting the movement of people and traffic. Also 49 schools submerged by the flood, which has kept several pupils and students outside the classrooms.

The flood also destroyed about 3,051 livestock, 80,764 farmlands, 26 churches and 27 mosques as well as 14 clinics in Taraba, said SEMA.

•Governor Suntai Mama Hebbini Ciroma, an over 100-year-old resident of KarimLamido Local Government Area is among the victims. She said the last time she saw flood was about 85 years ago when she got married.

“But the flood wasn’t up to this magnitude,” she said.

Some expectant mothers gave birth in the camps without healthcare services. In 2005, flood destroyed the Nukai-Jalingo Bridge, killing 105 people, including a senior lecturer and deputy commissioner of police.

THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

46

Council chief inspires staff

N

O fewer than 35 staff of Somolu Local Government Area of Lagos State have benefited from two seminars organised by the chairman, Hon Gbolahan Bago-stowe.

The staff were drawn from different sectors of the council.

The seminar was designed to help them improve on their jobs as well as imbibe principles of good administration. Participants were inspired.

The seminar dwelt on issues such as office routine, registry and correspondence procedure as well as improved revenue procedure for the junior staff.

The vice chairman, Hon. Abiodun Orekoya who represented the council chairman, said the event was borne out of the need to train the staff on how to face official challenges.

Orekoya said that the training was not only aimed at boosting workers’ productivity, but also initiated to show the importance the Bagostowe administration attached

•Hon Orekoya (middle) with participants at the event

By Emmanuel Udodinma

to staff welfare.

He told participants to use the

training to improve their skills in order to better discharge their official duties.

“There has been a mutual relation-

ship between the staff and the present administration,” he said.

The council also pledged to create a better working relationship be-

tween the administration and the workers, even as staff were enjoined to re-dedicate themselves to the progress of the council.

‘Ex-lawmaker Okonkwo inspired us’

A

YOUTH group, Agunechemba Youth Scheme (AYS), has mobilised resources to visit motherless babies and destitute homes in Anambra State, saying it drew inspiration from ex-lawmaker Senator Annie Okonkwo.

The youths said they are set to visit motherless children as well as

From Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, Nnewi

homes for the destitute in the state, hoping to cheer them up with gifts.

Led by Charles Ifejika, the group said they would be happy to make a difference in people’s lives, just

The youths said they are set to visit motherless children as well as homes for the destitute in the state, hoping to cheer them up with gifts

O

UR homes are no more; our farmlands and cash crops have been washed away by the flood. We have nothing left, but we believe our governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, can make a difference. We need help.

That was the position of residents of Obecha-Utchi, Ndokwa-East Local Government Area of Delta State, af-

•A part of the flooded community

as the lawmaker who represented Anambra Central has done.

Ifejika said: “Senator Annie Okonkwo is a patriotic Anambra politician and see how he has been politically stable till now. He is in APGA [All People’s Grand Alliance] and is supporting our Governor, Mr Peter Obi to take the state to the next level. He has given thousands of youths scholarship and empowered youths, women and men in the state without discrimination. In October he will be the Chairman of NUJ Zik Lecture Series at Emmaus House, Awka.”

The youths announced that they would support Okonkwo, now a member of APGA, in any capacity he chooses to present himself for service to Anambra people.

They also set up a 22-member committee drawn from the 21 local government areas of the state to

coordiante their activities in the state.

He said the youth scheme is committed in mobilising youths in the state to support Senator Okonkwo in 2014 judging from his investment in youth education and business and economic empowerment.

The leader of the group insisted that the senator has empowered more people in Anambra than all the senators and members of Representatives put together, adding that only Governor Peter Obi as governor of the state, has done more than Okonkwo.

He said that any position the senator deems fit to contest in 2014, including the governorship, will receive the backing of not only the coordinators and youths of the Agunechemba Youth Scheme but youths across the state.

He said the visitation they would

•Senator Okonkwo embark on to destitute homes and orphanages has the blessing of Senator Okonkwo.

Flood victims appeal to Uduaghan

By Ogochukwu Ikeje

ter flood submerged their houses and wasted their farms and cash crops.

The community is situated by the bank of the River Niger.

Leaders of the community, under the aegis of Obecha Development Union (ODU), articulated the resi-

dents’ plight in a letter sent to the state governor, copies of which were also delivered to Senator Ifeanyi Okowa (Delta North Senatorial District); Hon. Ossai Ossai (member of the House of Representatives, representing Ndokwa/Ukwuani Federal Constituency), and the Presidential Committee on Flood Disaster, Abuja.

In the letter, the ODU leadership, including the oldest man in the community, Chief Obi Chiejina, its president Elder Paul Nwose, and six others informed Governor Uduaghan and others of “the destruction of properties in Obecha-Utchi community by the flood in September and October 2012.”

The community leaders said their settlement is “ravaged by massive coastal erosion and flood” every year because of its location, but emphasised that the residents have never

experienced such destruction as they did this year.

Part of the letter read: “The havoc occasioned by the September and October flood from River Niger is catastrophic and unprecedented in the annals of history. The destruction affected houses, ancient landmarks, economic trees, farmlands, plantain plantations, cassava farms, livestock, fishponds, and other infrastructure.

“Due to the flood, our people whose main occupation is farming and fishing are prone to diseases.

Hunger and starvation are a clear challenge; we are in dire need of relief materials.”

No fewer than 136 residents of the community were said to be directly affected by the flood, some losing their houses or farms and cash crops.

The community leaders estimated the losses at N146 million.

48

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

They sang, they danced and exhuded unspeakable joy after the governor switched on the light to deliver them from darkness, promising to repay him with votes at the next governorship election

O

CTOBER 16, 2012 marked two years that Dr. Kayode Fayemi assumed office as the Governor of Ekiti State after his stolen mandate was restored by the Court of Appeal.

Confronted by gargantuan challenges of governance and a huge burden of expectation from the people of the state who expected their problems to be immediately solved, Fayemi has slowly but steadily won the hearts of Ekiti citizens within two years in office.

The second anniversary of Fayemi’s ascension to power gave the people of the state an opportunity to assess their governor and the projects executed so far to ascertain the impact they would have on the citizenry.

Invited guests and visitors who came to celebrate Fayemi’s second anniversary in office were completely dumbfounded by the enormity and quality of projects carried out by the administration.

This should be expected because Fayemi chose to work silently behind the scene and allow his work to speak for him rather than spending huge resources of the state on razzmatazz in a bid to glorify himself.

But the people of Ekiti State have cause to thank God for the various people-oriented projects executed and commissioned for their use by the Fayemi administration to marks its 730 days in office.

The projects range from roads to schools, enterprise development centres, skills acquisition centres, stadium facilities, electricity projects, water projects, among others.

Hitherto dilapidated schools were renovated during the eight-week long vacation period and commissioned for the use of appreciative students and teachers who resumed to their completely transformed schools.

The schools were renovated under the first phase of Operation Renovate All Schools in Ekiti (ORASE) as classrooms, hostels, dining halls, laboratories, administration blocks were touched to make learning and extracurricular activities conducive.

As the government commissioned projects for the use of its citizens, it also laid the foundation stones of new projects it hopes to complete within the last two years of the four-year mandate.

The foundation of what the administration christened as Legacy

•Dr Kayode Fayemi and Caretaker Chairman, Irepodun-Ifelodun Local Government Area at the inauguration of Odo-Oro community electricity project

A harvest of projects in Ekiti

By Odunayo Ogunmola

Projects for which it expects to be remembered by generations yet unborn include new Government House, new Governor’s Office, Civic Centre and State Pavilion.

Foundation stones of ultramodern Trailer Park in Omuo-Oke, Life Academy in Iluomoba and Samsung Engineering Academy in Ado which are expected to touch the lives of the host communities were also laid.

Projects commissioned on the first day, October 9, 2012 include a Data Centre at Governor’s Office and the renovated Oluyemi Kayode Stadium

•Inmates of Erelu Adebayo Orphanage, Iyin-Ekiti which added another building donated by the Ekiti Development Foundation

which was in a state of disrepair when the administration came on board.

The people of Ilupeju-Ijan in Gbonyin Local Government Area in Ekiti South Senatorial District praised Fayemi to high heavens on October 10, 2012 when the governor commissioned the community’s electricity project.

They sang, they danced and exhuded unspeakable joy after the governor switched on the light to deliver them from darkness, promising to repay him with votes at the next governorship election.

To residents of Ilawe-Ekiti, headquarters of Ekiti South West Local Government in the same senatorial district, the commissioning of IlaweIgbara Odo-Ibuji Road was dreams come true.

The road now serves as an alternative route to commuters travelling to Akure, the Ondo State capital from Ado-Ekiti, the Ekiti State capital following the collapse of Ondo State portion of Ado-Ikere-Akure Road.

Residents of Ilawe were marvelled at the transformation of the premier post-primary institution in the town, Corpus Christi College which was commissioned by Fayemi.

Other projects commissioned include Enterprise Development Centre, Aisegba-Ekiti; Omuo-Oke Grammar School, Omuo-Oke; Obada High School, Obada and Africa Church Comprehensive High School, Ikere.

On October 10, 2012, Fayemi’s commissioning train rolled into Ekiti Central Senatorial District which also witnessed a harvest of projects in all the five local government areas.

Projects unveiled are Erijiyan-Ilawe Road, Efon-Ipole Iloro-Ikogosi Road both of which lead to the Ikogosi Warm Spring Tourist Resort, AwoIyin Road, Ado-Afao Road and AdoIlawe Road, Ipoti High School, Odo Owa-Okeila Road which leads to Osun State.

Equally commissioned by Fayemi

are Odo-Uro Electricity Project, Efon Water Project, Okemesi Water Project, Ido-Ile Water Project, Ido-Ile Basic Health Centre, Iropora Skills Acquisition Centre, Eyemote Grammar School, Iyin and Erelu Adebayo

Orphanage, Iyin.

The rest are Mary Hill Water Project, Ijigbo-Isato Road, EKSUTHFajuyi Road and the massively renovated Ola Oluwa Muslim Grammar School, all in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital.

•Ogunmola is Special Assistant (Media) to Governor Fayemi

500 get free eye surgery in Ogun O

VER 500 people benefitted from the ongoing eye surgical operation in Ogun State.

It was tagged ‘Save Our Sight Project 2012’, organised by the state Hospitals Management Board in collaboration with Indo-Eye Care Foundation and the Rotary Club Palm Groove, Lagos.

The state governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun who disclosed this at the State Hospital, Abeokuta, venue of the surgery, said his administration was working very hard to make healthcare delivery a standard policy.

While appreciating the Indian community, Senator Amosun urged them to “transfer their expertise and technology so that ideas can be shared and in turn improve the skills of the state health workers”.

Governor Amosun enjoined the foundation to construct a domiciled institute in the state so that more people can be trained and skills enhanced to give adequate medical attention to eyes, saying that the government was working hard to move the health sector forward.

Speaking in an interview, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Olaokun Soyinka submitted that the state is partnering with the non-governmental organisations by providing the enabling environment for them to work in terms of medical, infrastructural and personnel.

Dr. Soyinka stated that aside from the free eye surgeries, government had embarked on other free medical emoluments for the people in the past such as the artificial limbs, saying

•Governor Amosun that “there is still more to come”.

The secretary, Rotary Eye Institute, India, Mr. Viral Purohit, commended the government for its support and providing a conducive environment for them to work. He submitted that Indo-Eye Care Foundation was ready to partner with the state government to build an institute in the state.

Two of the beneficiaries, Mrs. Olasumbo Komolafe and Mr. Adekunle Michael said they were pleased with the government for putting up such an elaborate programme, adding that they could now see clearly after going through the surgery.

The governor presented glasses to the beneficiaries.

THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

49

50

THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

UNIVERSITY OF MKAR (Office of the Registrar) P.M.B 017, Gboko, Benue State, Nigeria www.unimkar.edu.ng Email: mkaruni@yahoo.com

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VISION: To be a world class University that is committed to advancement of knowledge through quality teaching, research and holistic education that put God at the centre of all learning The following candidates who have been sourced through JAMB have been offered Supplementary admissions into University of Mkar. Those interested in the admission should proceed to the University for processing of their admissions from Monday 29th to Tuesday 30th October, 2012. For details contact: 07033038619, 07033061955, 08091926635, and 08062419260 All courses offered at the University have been accredited by the National Universities Commissions B. Sc. PHYSICS 25257811FH EKIM OFEM ENO 25040867BJ HAMID EZEKIEL 25042353CD AWUA FRANCIS 25046959HG SARDAUNA WILLIAMS MADUGU 25061336BD ASUQUO EMMANUEL EFFIONG 25062308AH PETER PETER BASSEY 25075616EH AWAK JOSHUA OKON 25075691BG EKAM UTIBE BASSEY 25078651GA JACOB AKPAN IMAOBONG 25081413BJ SANDY IGHA SANDY 25087532JC MA’AJI SAMIRAH ADAMU 25158661AI DOGO STEPHEN OKHIZOYARE 25175678HG SIMAILA MUSA MUHAMMED 25195303IA AONGOR SESUGH SAMUEL 25196039AG AESE DOUGLAS NYIANSHIMA 25197416EG UGWUANYI CHIMOBI PRECIOUS 25200575HF ORTESE FELIX SHIAONDO 25203685FH ALIYU ANIHELI SHEHU 25204467DJ PAUL NGBEDE 25208034AI IORZA BASIL 25214018AB OGBOLE TONY INALEGWU 25218961BD KEMASUODE ADAM 25225745DB OKONKWO CHIBUIKE DARLINGTON 25226246IA NYIOR RICHARD LUBEM 25239638GC BASHI TERNENGE PAUL 25239678DJ IORNUMBE AONDOFA DOMINIC 25245981EF ABUTU SUNDAY GABRIEL 25286090JF AYIBE ELIJAH EJANGBE B. Sc. INDUSTRIAL PHYSICS 25257859BA EKWE BARRY USANG 25352217HJ CHUKWUEKWU MOSES ERUEMULOR 25352992IC OKEH EPHRAIM NWITE 25358161JF EZE SOLOMON O 25358952FA EDE KELECHI THEOPHILUS 25287747HB EKEBI JULIUS IBI 25286442AJ OKO LAWRENCE OGBUDU 25365225EJ OZOEMENA SAMSON CHINONSO 25367376JF OGWALE ONYEMAECHI PRINCE 25367561CF IDENYI EJIOFOR CORNELIUS 25367701JA OKPARA IKECHUKWU JEFFREY OGODO ONYINYECHI MARY 25368054AB NWENYI CHINONSO JUDE 25368524EG NWASARAH EBUKA HENRY 25368639IJ OBIEKWE FABIAN TOCHUKWU 25009239DH IGANGA EDOZIE ABRAHAM 25015552BD ORJIUDE EZINWANNE JACINTA 25135030JB ELOM JOHN UDELE 25371943HB ALITA CHINEDU IGWE 25372052DF EDE SUNDAY 25372162JD NWOKPORO IKECHUKWU EMMANUEL 25372356JD ONAH EJIKE EZE 25372780IC IBEKWE VIVIAN ONYINYECHI 25476865HA AGU CHRISTIAN CHIZOBA 25481575AF NWIGWE ODINAKA OLIVER 25463668IF NWOKO SAMUEL OSINACHI 25561297EB OBI CHIKWADO MAGNUS 25568408EI EWA BENJAMIN OBI 25982304FH OBIYA FABIAN JOHN 25982976HI ELOM ITUMA FRIDAY 25494637AH B. Sc. FOOD SCIENCE & TECH ODI EBERE GRACE 25062642HC OLORUNMOLA SHERIFAT BUKOLA 26543594BA ODO GINIKA MARTHA 25351776EE UGOTA NGOZI 25366120IA UWAKARAONYEMMA IJEOMA M 25498621ID NWUDE STELLA OLUCHUKWU 25520957AF UGBOR CYNTHIA UGOCHUKWU 25526731EG EDEH MAKUOCHUKWU JENNIFER 25477893JA OGBONNA COMFORT CHINECHEREM 25478980DA CLEMENT SOMADINA ABIGAIL 25472767EF NWODE NKECHI NORA 26062077DH IBE CHIOMA PRISCILLIA 26077085CB EMEBITE CHIOMA MIRACLE 26080057CJ OKON SAMUEL PATRICK 25852748EG OKO IFEOMA JENNIFER 25604114BI IVO NGOZIKA 25324870FI ODO GINIKA MARTHA 25351776EE FRANCIS PRINCE BARIDAKARA 26479860CF OKO NNEKA ALUU 25367656DB OYIBE ABEL AMOBI 25370514JA OKAFOR UCHECHI DEBORAH 25375013HG OKAM OKORO ISAAC 25375059DF UGBENE CHINENYE MONICA 25481840ID NWIKE OBUMNEME MAC-ANGELO 26504178BF OKON SAMUEL PATRICK 25852748EG UGOTA NGOZI 25366120IA NWANKWO CATHERINE CHIOMA 25368001GD ENEMKPALI KANNY PEACE 25493060IC NDUBUISI BLESSING GIFT 26237744DH OKAFOR PEPERTUAL CHIAMAKA 26119541BE NNAJI CHIDIMMA ANNASTECIA 25495448JG SUNDAY NNENNAYA 26151028DB EMEBITE CHIOMA MIRACLE 26080057CJ OGBODO CHIOMA MARY 26057001DG OKO IFEOMA JENNIFER 25604114BI UGBOR CYNTHIA UGOCHUKWU 25526731EG UMEH AKUABATA UCHENNA 25497896CH UWAKARAONYEMMA IJEOMA M 25498621ID NWUDE STELLA OLUCHUKWU 25520957AF FRANCIS PRINCE BARIDAKARA 26479860CF B. Sc. BIOCHEMISTRY SYLVESTER ONYINYECHI 25000803CI

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EBO_IVO

BIOCHE

OKPARA OKO NNAZIM 25000895ED OGBONNA UCHECHI VERACIOUS 25001854HG NNAM CHIDINMA ROSEMARY 25003769FE JONATHAN EBUBECHUKWU MIRACLE 25003844CD NNACHI SABINA CHIOMA 25000072IH OTI SAMUEL O. 25000387BF OZOEMENAM CHUKWUEMEKA LAZ 25005362CI AZUBUIKE BRIGHT ONYEDIKACHI 25005928HG DICK OGECHI CAROLINE 25006662AI AHAMEFULA SHULAMITE NNEOMA 25009173EB EMMANUEL ONHYEKACHI 25010707JF UWAEZUOKE ONYEKACHI GODWIN 25010884EJ ORJI KENNETH NDUBUISI 25011625FH CLEMENT KINGSLEY CHINENYE 25013450BE UGWUMBA KAMA OJI 25013753HF EZEAKOLAM UCHENNA HENRY 25013878II NWOKO MIRIAM CHIYERE 25014623IE ODOGWO UZOCHI GRACE 25014703DI AMAH CHINASA FELICIA 25015312FE OGBONNAYA AMARACHI 25016089FB OKOYE JULIET EZINNE 25016444FD EKPOATAHA EDIDIONG NSE 25017770FC ORIH CHIAMAKA EMMANUELLA 25018426CE ADIELE CHIMAOBI DIAMOND 25020564BC EZEIRUAKU CHINONSO CHIBUZOR 25021030GJ ALUU MARTHA UDECHUKWU 25022653FA AJAEGBU CHISOM MICHEAL 25023013DH KALU SUNDAY 25023101GE AMARAIZU CHIBUIKE INNOCENT 25023684GB KALU VICTORIA IJEOMA 25023930AC NNABUE EBERECHUKWU GLORY 25026776JH ANYANWU OBIAGERI JOY 25027123CG OKORO AMARACHI AZU 25027384BJ NWANJOKU LINDA NNENNA 25028110HC ALBERT IKECHUKWU 25028236IC SUNDAY VICTOR OBIORA 25028270HH UZODINMA ELIZABETH CHIAMAKA 25028981HI ABOR MERCY CHIAMAKA 25029051GC DANBAKI JOSEHUA 25034337BF CALEB EMODOSHI BARDE 25037599CG AKUNATU APAJI DAVID 25039924DF AKOR FRIDAY ONUH 25197907CI ALEVA DOOSHIMA RUTH 25198354EF UJAH ESTHER ADDA 25203009EI AHAM MAUREEN E 25203253JC OGBE ELIZABETH 25204199GH BABA ABEL 25204722FA IDRIS ADAMU 25205108FG EZE EMEKA 25208862EG ATSORGA JULIUS IORFA 25209566GI TIZA REYES TERLUMUN 25209929EG SALIFU DENNIS AHMED 25210229BJ OKOYE JULIET 25210798FI IBRAHIM YUSUF 25212850BD ADAGA EMMANUEL 25213072CG OTOKPA VICTOR EJEH 25214293EJ AONDONAM ISAAC 25214769HG DIMAS AHME ELION 25040166IF SIKI EMO DEAKEN 25041607DA JAMES ANTHONY JACKSON 25041949HB JOHN TIMOTHY 25048953BB LODIYA GARPIYA 25051422HD OKON MMENYENE BONIFACE 25054910IF AKPAN THANKGOD MOFFAT 25055133JF EKPENYONG AMOS OKON 25055347DF AUGUSTINE BLESSING NICODEMUS 25056934CH EDEM GLORY GABRIEL 25057727HD KING UNWANA MATTHEW 25059192ED OKEH ECHEZONA HENRY 25155545EE WILSON AGWU RITA 25173982CD CHUKWU OLUCHI SUNDAY 25174185JD OMAKA SIMON CHUKWU 25175754EC AGOROWEI TARIPREDO N 25177530EJ IGBOKE FRANCIS NWANKWEGU 25180452BD DADUGOBO UNITY EBIKEBINA 25190535CI CHUKWU JERRY OBINNA 25195772DB MNDZA JOY TERDOO 25215638II OKAFOR BLESSING UCHECHUKWU 25215667AB NWEKE EMMANUEL IKENNA 25215867IA B. Sc. MICROBIOLOGY MOKWUE PATRICIA ISIOMA 25001143HF ENYA JOSEPH OKPARA 25001287DB ONYIA MICHAEL CHUKWUEMEKA 25001399ID AMANZE CHIBUOKEM EMMANUEL 25001631GG KALU FAVOUR NWANYISUNDAY 25004275II MBONU ONYINYECHI AGNES 25004695IJ NWOKEAFOR CHIBUDO GENEVIEVE 25005216HI EZE LOIS IFUNAYACHI 25007529CG UKEJE CATHERINE CHINWENDU 25008927AD MBADINUJU CHIEMEKA VALENTINE 25011454IF NDUBUISI AMARACHI NANCY 25012749IA CHINYERE LATEST CHIBUZOR 25014403GF NNABUDE FAVOUR IJEOMA 25016765GA ONUKWUE CYNTHIA 25017008BA UCHECHINEKE CHIGAEMEZU I 25017487CI NWOGU TOCHI GLORY 25018053HG CHUKWUEMEKA COLLINS NDUBUEZE 25018966FD NSOR JOY CHINYERE 25019313HJ RICHARD FAVOUR CHIOMA 25021938GB NJOKU LIZZY AMARACHI 25021974FA CHIJIOKE CHINEMEREM 25023628DF OTUBAH IFUNANYA JUDITH 25026269GG ONYEMAIRO VICTOR CHINOMSO 25027511CG OKANI DEBORAH IFEDINMA 25028285DC EDEH NICHOLAS ONYEKA 25028594HF AKUJUOBI CHIAMAKA SHIRLEY 25029180GD OKECHUKWU NNAEMEKA LOVEDAY 25029504GB OBOGO AGNES OCHUELE 25237800EH AKERITYO IYANGE JAPHET 25238215GD ISHENGE ROBERT ORSEER 25238399JD FAYO HENRY MDUGHGA 25239021HA TYOER MZUNGWEGA FELIX 25239183GJ EZEONU NGOZI GOODNESS 25239666HF TYONANDE TERYIMA CHARLES 25239820AB ELAIGWU VICTORIA ONYEMOWO 25240434AC UMOH NSIDIBE DICK 25057996EC UDO VALENTINE MOSES 25058410GB NWOGU BLESSING ISRAEL 25058711DB BEN ROBERT HERBERT 25059341IB OKPUTU TAKIM GIFT 25059671GB OKEREKE NGOZI MAUREEN 25059822JD UDI WINIFRED EDOHO 25061082JG IKPI PATIENCE OFEM 25061265DC EBITU CHRISTIANA UDO 25065052CA SAMUEL HAPPINESS UDOH 25065452IB PETER INIOBONG EZEKIEL 25065241DF ASONYE TOCHUKWU JOHN 25065258IB UMEH PASCARIA NGOZI 25065378BC IBANHA BLESSING SUNDAY 25067579AF EYO NKESE EFFIOM 25068853GD NYONG EYO ETIM 25068936AI CHISOM NWANKWO MARTINS 25070359AH HANSON JESSIAH NSE 25071265AF TOM NDIFREKE SUNDAY 25071342GF SAM EKOM-OBONG OKOKON 25072222EE INYANG BRIGHT PETER 25072750BC OKORO THERESA INYANGBE 25191009GB MADU JOY 25191025BD ALLISON ABIYE ATHANASIUS 25191087CB OTOR EDWIN OITA 25196171JF IJALE VICTORIA ONYILA 25196455BJ TARHEMBA MSENDOO GRACE 25196544ED IDRIS MOHAMMED 25196883JD YIMAM JENNIFER DOOSE 25197130DB AKAHA PETER TERHILE 25197475GD ACHILE IGBUDUYIMA JACOB 25197517DE CHUKWUEMEKA KINGSLEY IFEANYI 25200287GG AKOGWU HELEN AJIYA 25202607JA

EBO_AFI-N ABI_OBI-N ENU_NKA-W EBO_ONICH EBO_AFI-S ABI_AROCH ANA_OYI ABI_ISI-N ABI_OBI-N ABI_ABA-S ABI_UKW-E ABI_BENDE ABI_BENDE ABI_OSISI EBO_AFI-S IMO_IHITT IMO_AHI-M ABI_ISI-S EBO_AFI-S ABI_AROCH ENU_NKA-W AKI_ES-UD ABI_ISI-S ABI_UKW-W ANA_AGUAT EBO_AFI-N ABI_ISI-N ABI_BENDE ABI_OBI-N ABI_OHAFI IMO_NJABA EBO_ONICH EBO_AFI-S ABI_OBI-N ABI_AROCH ANA_IDE-S IMO_IKEDU EBO_OHAUK TAR_WUKAR TAR_BALI TAR_WUKAR BEN_OGBAD BEN_VANDE BEN_OKPOK BEN_OTURK BEN_OGBAD NAS_NASSA KOG_DEKIN ANA_ORU-N BEN_KAT-A BEN_UKUM KOG_OLAMA ANA_AWK-N NAS_NASSA NAS_DOMA BEN_ADO TAR_DONGA ADA_IDEMS TAR_WUKAR TAR_KA-LA ADA_MADAG TAR_TAKUM AKI_UKANE AKI_ET-EK AKI_URUAN AKI_IBI-I AKI_UKANE AKI_ORO-A EBO_ISHIE C-R_OBUDU EBO_ONICH EBO_AFI-S BAY_YENEG EBO_IZZI BAY_EKERE ENU_NKA-E NAS_OBI ANA_DUNUK ANA_AWK-S

BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE BIOCHE

DEL_ANIOC EBO_AFI-N ENU_NKA-W IMO_OWE-N ABI_OHAFI ABI_BENDE IMO_IHITT ABI_OBI-N ABI_BENDE IMO_ORLU EBO_ISHIE ABI_OBI-N ANA_NNE-S ABI_OSISI IMO_ISI-M ABI_ISI-N ABI_AROCH C-R_IKOM ABI_ISI-N ABI_ISI-N ABI_AROCH ANA_NJIKO ABI_UMU-N IMO_ORSU EBO_ONICH IMO_NGO-O ABI_UMU-N C-R_BEKWA BEN_UKUM BEN_UKUM BEN_UKUM BEN_UKUM ANA_OYI BEN_UKUM BEN_OTURK AKI_ABAK AKI_INI ABI_OSISI AKI_MKP-E C-R_IKOM IMO_IDE-N AKI_ESI-E C-R_YUKUR AKI_EKET AKI_EKET AKI_EKET IMO_NGO-O EBO_IVO AKI_ABAK C-R_ODUKP C-R_ODUKP IMO_ABO-M AKI_UKANE AKI_UKANE AKI_IBI-I AKI_IBI-I BEN_OJU ENU_EZEAG BAY_SOUTH BEN_OJU BEN_OBI BEN_GWE-E NAS_NASSA BEN_TARKA NAS_OBI BEN_GWE-E ANA_ANAOC BEN_OTURK

MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI

51

THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012 25202753EA OTEIKWU ELIZABETH ONYAOLE 25202786DI ADAKOLE OKOH CHRISTIAN 25203210CH OTACHE ENE ROSELINE 25203794CB DAVID EDET 25203834JF OGBE MATTHEW LYON 25203950DI DANLAMI ANYIDAKULA MONDAY 25204339DF AYENI OMOWUMI OMOTOLA 25204769AG DOGO SAMUEL 25205264HD OKPLA GRACE ADA 25205267GE GIDEON SHUAIBU AUTA 25184577FE AUGUSTINE GODBLESS TIMI 25205375DB UGWUOKE CHIOMA 25205545AG ONUH VICTORIA 25206359IG KPAREVFA KADOON LILIAN 25207627GF YAKUBU IBRAHIM SABO 25208900CJ AMEH BECKY OYIFIE 25209160CF AFAR PINEN 25210312GB ONUH EJEBA GODWIN 25210485CH OYEWOLE RAFIAT FUMILOLA 25210901EA HASSAN LOVELY NAPARA 25210956GJ GIDADO FAITH EFUSEH 25212100DC PIUS ABAH 25213209AD ISHOM TERHILE IBRAHIM P 25213642GC GUGU NGUKURAN STEPHANIE 25214122HH OBULE ENEJI MATHEW 25214541IB ABARI FATIMA HARUNA 25214771HA ABADA ABDUL ABUBAKAR 25214792AH NASIR HUMAIDA MUHAMMAD 25214932HC MOHAMMED MARYAM BELLO 25215065GB ALARIBE GLORY ADANNA 25215163FI MUSTAPHA SADIYA OGAH 25215431DA DANIEL THEOPHILUS YIRUMIKI 25215499CA LABA KUJE 25215542IF YEKPOGU ATALA SUCCESS 25215669JC SABO EMAYI OMADEFU 25215727BF ABDULLAHI JAMILA ANGARA 25215821CE AUDU REBECCAH GALADIMA 25216201EI ALIYU RABI 25216431DH ADAMU ABDULLAHI ABUBAKAR 25216591EC EPHRAIM AKOLO 25216745GF IWA MALE QUEEN 25216983DA MERENINI IFEANYI FRANCIS PETER 25217035GI OMAKU ABUBAKAR ADOKWE 25217377BC OSHAFU IBRAHIM ZALIHA 25217976FI ARUM UGHOCHUKWU SOLOMON 25218466ED AKWE HANNATU JAMES B. Sc. MATHEMATICS 25012493HC OKORO KENNETH OGBONNA 25015058EA KANGE EMMANUELLA NGUEVESE 25040448BF TARGEMA TERSEER MOSES 25050090JC EDISON SAMSON V 25172003ED OLUGBODE GBENGA AFEEZ 25192848HD TOM TERYIMA 25210586BF ASOGO LAWRENCE SAMUEL 25210741DF ASOR ORYINA PHILIP 25215881DI HUSSAINI ADOKOJI RABI 25218614IE ABEL RAPHAEL 25219011FH ANUM MANASSEH TERNA 25220472DJ TYOKYAA TIMOTHY TERDZUNGUWE 25239568HI ORGA PETER C 25270019AC ABANG-ANOH YIOKIE CECELIA 25275329HH ASHIA FIDELIS AKANUNG 25367362EA ITUMO KELECHI 25367660BJ OTAH IFEANYI SOLOMON 25367724CB IGWE EZEKIEL KELECHI 25368494DJ MBAM FRIDAY 25369940GG ONUH CHIBUEZE MICHAEL 25373224BB UKWUOME IBEABUCHI ITUMA 25435365CC LUCKY LUTHER 25438431DJ AGONOR JAMES PETERS 25447185GE SUNDAY DAMILARE JOSHUA 25462341IJ ADESUA OLAYINKA EBENEZER 25500669FA CHIKWENDU CHIMA J 25541911JG HAMLAK KEVIN ZACHARIAH 25546128FF ONUSURU SUNNY SAMUEL 25569821HH DANCHIMAH UKAOBASI STANLEY 25633681HC ONOJA FELIX UGBEDEOJO 25652982HI HARUNA YOHANNA 25653419CI IGBANOI JOSEPH ARMIEMENOGHENA 25653824HE MICHEAL OMOLARA BLESSING 25660400DH PHILIP LINUS 25668057FF JAMES JULIUS VASUMU 25679184EC OKE OLUWADAMILOLA LYDIA 25690915GA ATABO PHILEMON OGBE 25721300IF OBI SANDRA ONYEDIKACHI 25737695HJ JIBRIN ABDULHAKEEM 25774380CC ADEJOH ABUBAKAR 25786839IH MUHAMMED SALIFU A 25796303BJ OFFOR NELSON BOYOYO 25804345EG YAKUBU MUSTAPHA 25867533CA IJIKA FRANCIS AGI 25922187IF NWAFOR TOBIAS ODINAKA 25936531CE SEIDU AYOOLA AHMED 25942726GD MUHAMMED ILIAS ONIMISI 26017894IE RICHARD AMBROSE NNAMDI 26033757CF ONUCHUKWU MARVELLOUS 26103314AB MOSES DINATU ABMOAZHE 26103358GD ANDREW FRIDAY 26107869BD ONU USMAN UMAR 26108769CJ SABO STEPHEN AFFIKU 26111992GA OLAYIWOLA JOHNSON SUNDAY 26114437JH IBHAFIDON GODWIN 26119626FA CONGO DAVID ENVULUTSA 26119935JD ABDULLAHI SABO 26119955DD DUNIYA AGUM PETER 26120466FC ABU STEPHEN ELISHA 26121313DD DANJUMA DAVID DOGO 26125658JD JOSEPH CALEB SHAORGA 26144940FJ SAIDU HAUWA DANSADAU 26400185EC OLWOOKERE QOWIYY ADESINA 26402854IG SAKA YAKUBU AJIBADE 26462041DF OGU HENRY A 26501364BI AGBAHI JULIUS ATTAH 26503554EE EIKORE IREDIA HENRY-STEVEN 26506619GE IBINI EMEKA ELEM 26541533IC NWANKPA AKACHUKWU BRIGHT 26561241DB PATRICK MICHAEL MAIMAKO 26561434DE EZEKIEL JOHN TIDUA 26561737JF LAMU CLIFFORD GIRNWI 26561801JH GAMBO SUNDAY 26562715HB NYAM PAUL ADAMU 26563649IC SALLAH SUNDAY SOLOMON 26566527IB ATTAH ANITA GOODWILL 26567030CH BULUS TANGSOM COMFORT 26567154ED SAMBO BINUGA 26594722IA IKPE SUNDAY OGAH 26594924FG CELESTINE EMMANUEL MUYIWA 26594987GB OKEJE EGBE EMMANUEL 26595072JH MADAKISON DOMINIC TANZE 26601916DC OKHUOYA GODDAY IMUZEZE 26602626DG ADIMEKWE CHARLES OKECHUKWU 26603363FG AMIN ADAMU EKPO 26604935JD IBE NNADOZIE EZENWA 26608936CB OWOLABI MARIAM OLAIDE 26613137CI IKANI KINGSLEY SUCCESS 26624670FI JIMOH SAMARI IBRAHIM 26627093GE PIUS EMMANUEL 26630959AJ ROWLAND ADEKUNLE ADEMOLA 26635344EG OLOWOLAYEMO SAMUEL SUNDAY 26637220EE ADAH EMMANUEL A 26644935IC OHAKWEH GERARD CHWKWUNYERE B. Sc. COMPUTER SCIENCE 26637095DB ESSIEN JOSEPH GABRIEL 26637176HJ ULOKO JOHN DOUGLAS 26637301JC ANYANWU KEMNAELEM VIRTUS 25001110HH NWOKOCHA CHINAZA JUNIOR AMARACHI MERCY CHIDIEBERE 25002123EF EMMANUEL VICTOR CHIDIEBERE 25002933EA

BEN_OTURK BEN_OTURK BEN_AGATU BEN_AGATU BEN_OGBAD NAS_NASSA KOG_IJUMU NAS_NASSA BEN_OTURK NAS_NASSA BAY_KO-OP ENU_IG-ES BEN_OHIMI BEN_VANDE NAS_LAFIA BEN_OGBAD BEN_OBI BEN_OHIMI KWA_OFFA TAR_TAKUM TAR_DONGA BEN_OGBAD BEN_GUMA BEN_USHON C-R_OBUDU NAS_KEANA NAS_AWE NAS_AWE NAS_LAFIA ABI_OSISI NAS_DOMA NAS_WAMBA NAS_EGGON NAS_OBI NAS_KEANA NAS_DOMA NAS_LAFIA NAS_KEANA NAS_AWE NAS_LAFIA NAS_OBI IMO_OWE-W NAS_OBI NAS_KEANA ENU_NKA-W NAS_KEANA

MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI MICRBI

EBO_AFI-N BEN_GWE-E TAR_GASSO TAR_YORRO OYO_AFIJI BEN_USHON TAR_BALI BEN_BURUK NAS_DOMA BEN_OGBAD BEN_VANDE BEN_BURUK TAR_DONGA C-R_OGOJA C-R_OBANL EBO_IKWO EBO_EZZ-S EBO_EZZ-S EBO_IKWO EBO_IVO EBO_OHAUK TAR_WUKAR EDO_ETS-C OND_AKONW EKT_EKI-E IMO_AHI-M TAR_SARDA IMO_ABO-M IMO_ONUIM KOG_OLAMA KAD_KAJUR EDO_ESA-C OND_OWO KAD_ZAN-K ADA_MICHI OYO_OGO-S KOG_ANKPA ANA_IDE-S KAN_BEBEJ KOG_OLAMA KOG_IGALA KOG_IBAJI KOG_OKENE BEN_OKPOK EBO_ISHIE OND_AKONW KOG_OKENE DEL_IK-NE ANA_NNE-S NAS_EGGON BEN_OHIMI NAS_DOMA NAS_DOMA OYO_OGO-S EDO_ESA-W NAS_LAFIA NAS_LAFIA NAS_KOKON NAS_OBI NAS_AKWAN NAS_KEANA ZAM_MARU OYO_SAK-W OYO_ATIGB IMO_NGO-O C-R_YALA EDO_ES-NE EBO_ISHIE ABI_ISI-N TAR_BALI TAR_JALIN TAR_SARDA TAR_TAKUM PLA_JOS-N TAR_AR-KO AKI_UKANE TAR_USSA TAR_DONGA BEN_OBI OND_AKOSE C-R_BEKWA NAS_WAMBA EDO_OWA-W IMO_OKIGW NAS_NASSA FCT_KUJE OGU_OBA-O KOG_DEKIN KOG_OKENE EDO_AKO-E FCT_KWALI KOG_KABBA BEN_OKPOK IMO_IDE-S

MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH MATH

AKI_ITU BEN_OTURK IMO_EZINI ABI_UGWUN ABI_UGWUN IMO_NJABA

COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S

25003512EJ ANDREW MIRACLE UZOCHI 25003651CA UKPABIA UGOCHUKWU BRIGHT 25004166CH ACHIONYE GODSWILL CHIBUEZE 25004737GA JAMES ISAAC CHIZURUOKE 25005150IC AJAH PAUL O 25000668EF CHIMEZIE PROMISE OBINNA 25005891JA OGUZIE BRIGHT BENEDICT 25005983AI KALU PROMISE CHIADIKOBI 25006199DJ UGONNA CHIDINMA C 25191799BJ GODWILL IPIRIFUMO ANDY 25192402FD WANKAR BENJAMIN DEADE 25192596FD ICHOR SEFA PETER 25192652HJ ANUNGWA COMFORT 25192704CA DYURAN SAMUEL TERUNGWA 25192706BE YATEGHTEGH SOLOMON KERSHIMA 25193055DE ADZUA SEYINA 25193680AC APERA CLEMENT TERTSEA 25193795EF IORKOHOL M EVARISTUS 25193835CC KORGBA FESTUS DEMESUGH 25194401HA ANTYEV ITYOHEE FIDELIS 25194664FH AUNDE TERTSEA TITUS 25194691HD TYONENGE DOOMEMEN VERONICA 25194723HE YAAKWAN DOOBEE FELICIA 25194816IG ONAH JOHN OHEAHIGWU 25194928EB ONYIKE MICHAEL 25195179GE HENDAH FELIX FAEREN 25195370HD TER-AYUHWA MIMI OCHANYA 25195479DH AZUANGO NGUSHA 25285277BC NEJI JOHN MOMNANG 25285343AI OGAR PATRICK OGAR 25285364EC OKEY SUNDAY WOKA 25285366DG AWUPRI PRECIOUS OMAGU 25285382IF ILOM GLADYS MOLEY 25285465DA ODEY BENARD PATRICK 25285495DH BISONG MARIA NYIAM 25285509JC EKPOR MARY EBUO 25285606JC OTU ANATHANSIA EKWE 25285623EB ADIE CHRISTOPHER ESHIDENANG 25285629CD ABANG PRAISE AGIAMPE 25285703JC OGAR ALICE EBENYIN 25285801IJ DIMINYI DANIEL ADI 25285803ID ACHODA JOSEPH AJOR 25285848EF AGIDA PATRICK ADE 25285964IF WONAH JOSEPH AMOJA 25285980DH ASU JUDE EDOR 25286001HB OBI PATIENCE BUSA 25286003GF OKACHE JOSEPH OKO 25286047DA OYONG MARIA BEBIEM 25286050CB EMEKA VICTORIA CHIEMERIE 25286238DJ OTIRIBI JOHN USHIE 25286285JC ECHUA ALBERT OSAR 25286307CG AJAHMANSON GORDON UBUA 25007338BH UKA CONFIDENCE NNENNA 25007440AC OKOCHI LILIAN CHINASA 25007482HA ANIUKWU MICHAEL CHUKWUMA 25007568AG NWODO OSINACHI B 25008636AD IGWE CHIOMA FAITH 25008276BG LAWRENCE ADAEZE NNACHI 25010519HH ONWUAMAEZE CHINENYE EUCHARIA 25010645IH EKE MARK 25010825DC GIDEON CHIAMAKA GOODNESS 25011157AG UKANDU CHUKWUEMEKA MARVEL 25012213DJ ONYEMACHI ABIGAIL CHINASA 25012543BJ EGWU FREDRICK CHINAZA 25013093BI OGBONNA JENNIFER OMASIRICHI 25013515BD EKOH CHRISTIAN 25013598FF MEHEOBI SAMUEL OBINNA 25013990ED EZENNAKWE CHIDOZIE MICHAEL 25014083FF CHUKWU OGBONNA EDWARD 25014181FC ANTHONY PETERMICHAEL CHINEDUM 25014197AE UDENSI EMMANUEL EKE 25014946IF IGWE CHRISTIANA NWANNEKA 25015170JC ANOLABA IHECHIEME FELIX 25016202AD OKENWA JOSEPH CHINEDU 25017470HJ OBI KINGSLEY OTUOMASIRI 25017505HB MBAERI CHIJIAMARA FAITH 25291833DF JOHNNY GODSWILL OTHUKE 25292701FA EGWABOR CHIDI LEWIS 25292750JH OPENE HENRY OGOCHUKWU 25294397AG ONYEANAKWE COLLINS 25294771EI IJEDINMA GOD’STIME OGECHI 25295602HH NDUBUISI CHRISTIAN CHUKWUEBUKA 25299542JB DUFF EYAI SUNDAY 25300338DB MAINASARA JEREMIAH CHUNNEH 25301165HC CHUKWU JAMES 25302019DC ORETTE EFE MAZINO 25303656GI MORDI CHARLES CHUKS 25304257BB OMONGBELEGHAN JERRY OSEZELE 25306557JF OBASI CHUKWUEMEKA AGWUEZE 25310514FI CHRISTOPHER CHRISTABEL ELOHO 25312704IE ERARO OTHUKE 25196630HG DOGO UDE FRANCIS B. Sc. ACCOUNTING 26218142GB AMOSU TAIWO OLUWASEUN 26218900BI JAMES ELIZABETH NOAH 26223838EF NDEM IMAOBONG ALLEN 26326011EG OSHUO BENEDICT OBI 26332929FA AKOMAYE THOMAS 26333082HG UBI JOHNSON NGODI 26334839ED AGADAGA MIESINTEI YOUNG 26336543HC ITA BLESSING NKOYO 26339319IG UKPEPI MERCY JULIET 26356271FI OJE KAWONA ENANG 26361762HF ALABA BRIDGET OLUFUNMILOLA 26374502HD AKINJOBI OLAYIWOLA AYOBAMI 26442712BG ONYEMEREKWE JOY CHIAMAKA 26444077JC OKULU FELIX T 25113471GJ MATTHEW CHRISTIANA NKEREUWEM 25113641EE INWANG BLESSING GODDY 25113682BI EDET GIFT FRIDAY 25125081GC MBAEYI BENARD CHINEDU 25130138CD MKPARU ONYINYECHUKWU ESTHER 25154191DC UGOCHUKWU CHINEMELU FAVOUR 25173785DC TARIGHA MODUKPE ALLEN 25174282JD JOSEPH DAMERO 25175381JE ORIANU EZEKIEL OYINBRAKEMI 25175672JE AREBAI ENDURANCE PEREKEME 25175924BH AGUNOWEI RITA ABOSOR 25176745HG EBUTU STELLA IMURANI 25177494GA DAVID ASUENIZE 25180170ID GITA HAPPY TEBOKESELE 25181756HI PREYE GOODNESS TODIESONUME 25183625JH NIXON GEORGE EBIEGBERI 25188089JB YOUPELE SOPHIA W B 25192502EE CHIRZENDAN YUANA 25190724ED AUGUSTINE DANIEL 25190735BA OJOBOLO EBIEREDE CHRISTABEL 25194058DC SHAGBA BLESSING IVEREN 25193490IH IKE PATIENCE FAVOUR 25198561AG CHUR DAVID 26453010GF ISAAC TONYE UCHE 26454129AG NDULUE ESTHER UZOAMAKA 26454350CC EZEKIEL LOVE FRIDAY 26454720HG NELSON LUCY ELOHOR 26455869CE TORDEE EUNICE WALETON 26456508EH BROWN SARAH GINIKANWA 26456925FH NELSON CHRISTIANA 26457179HB IBEH CHIMEZIE WORLU 26459863HA GEORGE VICTORIA JONATHAN

IMO_ABO-M IMO_IDE-S ABI_ISIKW ABI_BENDE EBO_IVO IMO_EZINI IMO_NJABA ABI_ISIKW ANA_NNE-S BAY_SOUTH BEN_KWAND BEN_KAT-A BEN_KWAND BEN_KONSH BEN_USHON BEN_KWAND BEN_KAT-A BEN_KWAND BEN_VANDE BEN_MAKUR BEN_KWAND BEN_VANDE BEN_VANDE BEN_OJU BEN_ADO BEN_KWAND BEN_GBOKO BEN_GWE-W C-R_OGOJA C-R_BEKWA C-R_YALA C-R_YALA C-R_OGOJA C-R_OBANL C-R_OGOJA C-R_BOKI C-R_BOKI C-R_BEKWA C-R_OBUDU C-R_BEKWA C-R_OGOJA C-R_BEKWA C-R_OGOJA C-R_YALA C-R_BOKI C-R_BOKI C-R_YALA C-R_BOKI ABI_UMU-S C-R_BEKWA C-R_YALA C-R_BOKI EBO_AFI-S EBO_IVO ANA_OYI ENU_NKA-E IMO_MBAIT EBO_AFI-S ANA_IDE-S ABI_OHAFI ABI_ABA-N ABI_BENDE ABI_UMU-S EBO_AFI-N ABI_UGWUN ENU_AWGU ABI_ISIKW ANA_AGUAT EBO_OHAOZ ENU_NKA-W EBO_AFI-S ABI_BENDE ABI_UKW-W ENU_NKA-W ANA_EKWUS IMO_NWANG DEL_NDO-E DEL_IK-S DEL_OSH-N DEL_IK-S DEL_IK-S DEL_IK-NE AKI_ETINA NAS_KOKON BEN_OGBAD DEL_ISO-N DEL_ANIOC EDO_ESA-W EBO_OHAOZ DEL_ISO-N DEL_ISO-N BEN_KWAND

COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S COMP S

OGU_IFO AKI_INI AKI_MKP-E C-R_BOKI C-R_OBUDU C-R_YUKUR BAY_SOUTH AKI_OKOBO C-R_OBUDU C-R_UGE-N OSU_ATAKU OGU_ABE-S ABI_OBI-N RIV_ABO-A AKI_IBI-I AKI_ABAK AKI_ETINA IMO_OGUTA ANA_NNE-N ANA_AWK-S BAY_NEMBE BAY_YENEG RIV_DEGEBAY_SOUTH BAY_YENEG BAY_OGBIA BAY_YENEG BAY_EKERE BAY_YENEG BAY_BRASS BAY_OGBIA BEN_KWAND AKI_URUAN BAY_EKERE BEN_KWAND ENU_ANINR BEN_GBOKO RIV_OKIRI ANA_IHIAL AKI_UR-OF DEL_ISO-S RIV_KHANK RIV_ELEME C-R_ODUKP RIV_OBIARIV_OGU-B

ACOUNT ACOUNT ACOUNT ACOUNT ACOUNT ACOUNT ACOUNT ACOUNT ACOUNT ACOUNT ACOUNT ACOUNT ACOUNT ACOUNT ACOUNT ACOUNT ACOUNT ACOUNT ACOUNT ACOUNT ACOUNT ACOUNT ACOUNT ACOUNT ACOUNT ACOUNT ACOUNT ACOUNT ACOUNT ACOUNT ACOUNT ACOUNT ACOUNT ACOUNT ACOUNT ACOUNT ACOUNT ACOUNT ACOUNT ACOUNT ACOUNT ACOUNT ACOUNT ACOUNT ACOUNT ACOUNT

Visit the School website for the complete list of Candidates on

www.unimkar.edu.ng

Signed: REGISTRAR

52

THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

53

CITYBEATS

Sallah: Lawmakers call for sacrifice

L

AWMAKERS from Lagos State yesterday urged Nigerians to imbibe the lessons of sacrifice and submission to the will of Allah.

Lagos House of Assembly Speaker Adeyemi Ikuforiji and two federal lawmakers, Babajide Akinloye (Eti-Osa Federal Constituency) and Dayo Bush-Alebiosu (Kosofe Federal Constituency), in separate messages agreed that the current situation in the country calls for sacrifice.

They pointed out that the significance of Prophet Mohammed’s life was a good lesson, given his humble beginning and his attainment of greatness through submission to Allah.

Bush-Alebiosu said: “Sacrifice implies that we must be our brother’s and sister’s keeper and ensure that peace and harmony is sustained in every area we find ourselves.”

He said greater patriotism will come with social justice and fairness and called on leaders at all levels to always promote social justice.

“Sacrifice as exemplified by Prophet Mohammed should be the catalyst that will spur Muslums to reflect on the various challenges facing the nation,” Akinloye said.

“We have to continue to emulate Prophet Mohammed for that wonderful service he rendered to his Creator, by offering his only son as a sacrifice.

This should also reflect in all Muslims’ positive attitude to all the laws passed by the legislative arm of government at all levels”, Ikuforiji said.

Also, Chairman, IfakoIjaiye Local Government Area, Apostle Oloruntoba Oke, while wishing Muslims residents in the council a joyful and memorable festive period, enjoined Okada riders, commercial vehicle operators and other motorists to obey the new Lagos Traffic Law because “government would not hesitate to prosecute and sanction violators as its enactment is in the overall interest of Lagosians.”

•Ikuforiji

08033054340, 08034699757 E-mail:- ynotcitybeats@gmail.com

619 persons killed, maimed in Okada accidents in two years

O

NE hundred and two persons, including 71 men and 36 women, have died in accidents involving Okada riders, a statistics of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) compiled over two years revealed yesterday.

The data from LASTMA’s Planning and Research Department also revealed that 512 others sustained serious injuries from about 442 okada accidents.

Last year, 47 were killed and 98 others sustained serious injuries. From January this year till date, 63 people have been killed. Fifty nine others sustained serious injuries.

Also, the Lagos State Police Commissioner, Umaru Manko, said most of the robberies recorded by the Police were carried out on motorcycles.

Police records said 513 of all fatal accidents recorded in the state in the last two years were caused by okada operators. The record also re-

•Police blame two-third of armed robberies on okada operators

Riders beg govt to rescind ban on some roads

C

OMMERCIAL motorcyclists in Lagos State popularly known has Okada riders have pleaded with the state government to revise the list of restricted roads.

Some of the operators urged Governor Babatunde Fashola to consider their plight by reducing the number of the routes.

Mr. Peter Okwoli said the ban on highways is well justified, but not on major streets, which makes their business worth the while.

By Segun Balogun

vealed that of the 30 armed robberies between July and September 22 employed commercial motorcycles.

Manko, who broke the news after the weekly State Security Council meeting chaired by Governor Babatunde Fashola (SAN), said commercial motorcycle oper-

By Olumide Adesanya and Adebisi Adeyanju

“I have been at home for the past five days unable to go out with my okada for fear of being seized by policemen,’’ he said with teary eyes.

A thrift collector, Mr. Emmanuel Quadry, said most of his customers are motorcyclists and they have been unable to meet up with their contributions. He said accidents can happen anywhere, whether on the highway or on local routes. Quadry sugators have caused much damage in the state. He said the police would not succumb to any blackmail in enforcing the new Traffic Law in its entirety.

“Motorcyclists have done so much damage in Lagos State. I am the Commissioner of Police and I am telling you from the point of knowledge that most of the armed

gested training instead of the prohibition plan, which is already taking a toll on thousands of lives.

Mr. Adewale, a retired civil servant said he earns a living by leasing out motorcycles to able-bodied men, and now that motorcycles have been prohibited from plying some routes, he has nothing to feed himself and his family with.

“There will be no cause for alarm if the government creates other means of employment for them,” he said. robberies that we recorded were carried out by these motorcyclists. People go to the banks to collect money, they will hang around banks, they will hang around peoples’ houses, take their belongings, collect their money, even in traffic holdups,” he said.

Although there has been false impression from some

•Manko

quarters that the state government has banned the operation of commercial motorcycles in the state as done in some other parts of the country, the government has consistently maintained that it only restricted their operations to some areas both as a means to regulate traffic and reduce avoidable accidents and loss of life on its roads.

Manko said: “Now that we have a law that says they should not operate in certain places, restricted areas; that law is going to be enforced. The state has about 9,010 roads and only 400 of these roads are being restricted for now, so how can someone say it is wickedness?”

Ladipo traders seek pedestrian bridge

T

•Kwara State bound Sallah travellers at the Ijora Motor Park, Lagos... yesterday

PHOTO: RAHMAN SANUSI

Thousands of commuters stranded on Abuja-Lokoja highway F OR more than six hours yesterday, thousands of commuters were stranded on the Abuja-Lokoja highway, following heavy security against the Boko Haram insurgency.

The army mounted an unusual blockade in Abaji, homestead of a Boko Haram coordinator, Kabiru Sokoto, who is detained by the State Security Service (SSS) after his arrest in Taraba State early this year.

Commuters urged President Goodluck Jonathan to prevail on the army to reduce the delay caused by its checkpoint in Abaji, while screening passengers.

Investigation by our correspondent showed that there was easy passage of commuters between 5am and noon but a sudden heavy security was mounted as from 1pm.

As at 6pm, there was no hope for the stranded commuters, most of whom might sleep in their vehicles in Abaji.

An official of the Federal

•Soldiers mount unusual blockade From Yusuf Alli, Managing Editor, Northern Operation

Roads Safety Corps (FRSC), who spoke in confidence with our correspondent, said: “We are helpless; the soldiers told us that they decided to strengthen security based on orders from above.

“We have done our best to put structures in place for easy passage, but if it has to do with security issues, we have our own limitation.

“We will make representation to the government on the traffic gridlock in this axis; it is now left to the appropriate authorities to liaise with the Army on how to improve the situation at the checkpoint in Abaji.”

The source added: “As it is, we should have more than 200,000 commuters stranded because at a ran-

dom count, we have about 5,000 to 6,000 vehicles on queue with no hope of leaving Abaji. Most of these commuters in Abaji are Muslims going for Sallah celebration.

“We are certainly trying to resolve the traffic challenge caused by this sudden security build-up. We have always had the checkpoint but today’s (Thursday) has been standstill. We cannot talk about the information at the disposal of the authorities.”

Some of the commuters spoke with our correspondent in Abaji.

Hajiya Zainab Malik said: “This experience is just harrowing. I got to Abaji at about 12.15pm and here I am at 5.29pm on the same spot. Yet, I am not sure of when I will get home on the eve of Sallah.

“They told us that the tight security has to do with Boko Haram scare. But we have not noticed any threat at all.”

Alhaji Musa Yabagi, said: “I am carrying my ailing aged mother home for treatment but you can see the helpless woman gasping for breath. I feel so disappointed.

“I want to appeal to the President to intervene, especially during festive periods like this. If we cannot have good roads, we should be allowed to move about freely.

It is this kind of situation that makes some of us to lose faith in the system. Who can be this callous to give this kind of order?

“Yet, when we got to the checkpoint, they were only doing sight-and-pass method. They were not checking anything than to look at faces. Why should we wait for five hours for soldiers to look at our faces?”

HE LADIPO Auto Central Executive Committee (LACEC) has pleaded with Governor Babatunde Fashola to build pedestrian bridge at Toyota Bus Stop on Apapa-Oshodi expressway.

In an ‘SOS message’ sent to Fashola, LACEC President-General, Iyke Animalu, said the lives of more than 20,000 of hismembers and their customers are in serious danger as they cross the expressway daily.

Addressing reporters at the end of last month’s environmental sanitation, Animalu said in the last three months, five traders have been killed while crossing the expressway.

Others lie critically ill in hospitals.

He said: “As an action and listening governor, we plead with Governor Fashola to build a pedestrian bridge at Toyota Bus stop and save the Ladipo auto traders from being crushed daily by fast-moving motorists on the everbusy Oshodi-Apapa Expressway”.

The LACEC PresidentGeneral recounted several promises made by some government officials regarding the building of the pedestrian bridge which are yet to be fulfilled. He urged the Lagos State Government to take positive action on the issue, to avoid more deaths at Toyota Bus Stop.

Animalu also called on the government to repair Ladipo road and other adjoining roads, as well as construct public toilet for their use.

THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

54

EQUITIES NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 24-10-12

May & Baker targets N27b turnover

M

AY & Baker Nigeria Plc would more than quadruple its turnover to N27 billion in the next five years as the company consolidates plans to become one of the 10 largest conglomerates in Nigeria.

In a preview of the prospects of the company during a factory tour to the company’s manufacturing complex in Ota, Ogun State, by capital market stakeholders, group managing director, May & Baker Nigeria Plc, Mr Nnamdi Okafor said the company has laid the groundwork for growth and would going forward harness the potential of the diversification of its business.

Audited report of the company for the year ended December 31, 2011 showed a turnover of N4.8 billion, a 4.5 per cent increase from N4.6 billion recorded in 2010.

Profit after tax stood at N255.5 million, up by 32.5 per cent from N192.9 million attained in 2010.

Okafor outlined that the company would collaborate with international partners as part of measures to generate more funds and technical support, noting that the management is in “a hurry to achieve results.”

He said four firms have al-

By Taofik Salako and Tonia Osundolire

ready indicated interest to take advantage of the stateof-the-equipment available at company Pharma Centre, a WHO-standard pharmaceutical manufacturing plant ensconced in the Ota complex.

According to him, the company would continue to diversify to cover all areas of healthcare and wellness while growing a West African brand of international standard.

He said the company has done well in the past seven years with decent revenue, profit and dividend records while it has also engaged in rapid diversifications and made many bold fixed assets investments profile.

“Our goal now is to turn our good company into a great company with consistently impressive profit and loss accounts and balance sheet. We need to build a wall of perceived invincibility and perpetuity around us with strong brand and strong institution,” Okafor said.

He outlined that the company’s turnaround strategies would entail recapitalisation of its business and improvement in its ability to compete in

current businesses.

He added that the company would step up marketing and research and development efforts while also improving on its operational efficiency through process re-engineering and automation of its processes.

At the recent Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the company, chairman, May & Baker Nigeria, Lt. Gen, Theophilus Danjuma (rtd), said the company was hopeful improving significantly on dividends to shareholders as it begins to reap from the benefits of its investment in the ultramodern pharmaceutical manufacturing centre.

He said the dividend payout of 10 kobo per share being paid for the 2011 business year would serve as benchmark for future returns, assuring shareholders that the board and management would continue to identify new areas of investments for future growth.

“We are very positive about the future of our company. We intend to aggressively drive our business diversification and market penetration and expansion strategies, leveraging on the potentials of our newly completed world class manufacturing plant,” Danjuma said.

He intimated the shareholders that May & Baker is currently working on a number of new products, which are expected to be launched before the end of this year.

NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 24-10-12

THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

55

MONEY LINK

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‘Forced merger for tier 2 banks likely’ N

IGERIA’s smaller banks may be forced to consolidate to compete with the biggest institutions, Mark Mobius, executive chairman of Templeton Emerging Markets Group, has said.

According to Bloomberg report, Nigerian banks have reported rising profits and loan growth this year. “The largest banks are moving forward at a fast pace to strengthen their position, so smaller banks may not have any other choice but to merge or acquire,” Mobius, who oversees about $45 billion, said. According to him, there is a possibility of further consolidation in the banking sector although he failed to identify any banks that may combine.

He said the growth of the industry comes after Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor Lamido Sanusi fired the chief executive officers of eight of the country’s 24 lenders in 2009 and bailed them out with 620

By Collins Nweze

billion ($4 billion) because loans by banks to equity speculators and fuel importers had pushed the industry to the verge of collapse. The government then set up Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) to buy bad debts from the country’s banks.

He said that most banks have swung back to profit after selling their bad debts and are set to benefit from an economy forecast by the government to grow 6.5 per cent next year, the same pace as it expects this year.

He said that Bloomberg NSE Banking Index, which tracks Nigeria’s 10 biggest banks by market value has advanced 60 per cent this year, compared with the 31 per cent rise of the Nigerian Stock Exchange All-Share

Index. Templeton holds shares in Nigerian lenders including Guaranty Trust, Zenith Bank, Access Bank Plc, United Bank for Africa Plc and First Bank of Nigeria Plc, according to data compiled by Bloomberg.

“We are not reducing,” said Mobius. “We are long-term holders.” Templeton is also considering buying shares in Kenyan banks to “get exposure to the entire Kenyan economy, which we see growing at a healthy pace,” Mobius said.

He said that Kenyan banks are attractive to international investors because their practices, capital adequacy and other ratios are fundamentally good. “Given the generally low penetration of banking services throughout the country there are excellent prospects for growth,” Mobius said. “We see contin-

• Sanusi

ued growth in the next 10 years.” Increased capital requirements in Nigeria and other African countries are “quite positive,” he said.

Kenya, Ghana, Gambia and Zambia increased minimum capital requirements for foreign lenders in the past 12 months. Banks must obtain new funds to re-capitalise their foreign units and won’t be allowed to use money already raised by their parent companies, the CBN said in a statement published on its website on July 26.

UBA spearheads talks on infrastructure devt

U

NITED Bank for Af rica (UBA) Plc has taken a frontline position in stakeholder’s discussions on bridging the gap between opportunity and infrastructure investment in Nigeria and Africa.

A two-day United States (US) /Africa Infrastructure Conference, themed Building the Infrastructure for Nigeria ’s Vision 20:20, was organised in the US by The

Corporate Council on Africa (CCA) in conjunction with the Embassy of Nigeria and co-sponsored by UBA Plc. CEO, UBA Capital, Africa, Wale Shonibare spoke at a panel session titled “Financing it All”. He commended the Federal government’s renewed focus on developing infrastructure to stimulate economic growth. According to him, “policy decisions such as the recently announced tax in-

centives to encourage private sector investment in infrastructure are essential to accelerating investment in the sector.

He sid UBA Capital is positioned to assist American and other overseas investors with interest in exploring the abundant opportunities presented by the rapid growth in the Nigerian economy. “As one of Africa’s leading financial services group, UBA has proven ability to finance big

ticket transactions,” he added.

He said the confab was an important step in bringing the Vision 2020 goal to fruition. Key speakers at the conference identified project opportunities totaling $2.8 billion for successful development of roads and bridges, rail, ports, airports, agro-allied cargo operations, housing, water and information communication technology.

FGN BONDS Amount N

Rate %

M/Date

3-Year 5-Year 5-Year

35m 35m 35m

11.039 12.23 13.19

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

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

Amount Amount Offered ($) Demanded ($) 350m 150m 350m 138m 350m 113m

Price Loss 2754.67 447.80

INTERBANK RATES 7.9-10% 10-11%

PRIMARY MARKET AUCTION (T-BILLS) Amount 30m 46.7m 50m

Rate % 10.96 9.62 12.34

Date 28-04-2012 “ 14-04-2012

GAINERS AS AT 24-10-12 SYMBOL

AIICO A CADEMY BAGCO PRESCO DETAGLAS CAP WEMABANK UNITYBNK CUTIX NASCON

O/PRICE

0.60 3.75 4.75 14.00 10.00 31.52 0.61 0.62 1.48 5.75

C/PRICE

0.66 4.10 4.88 14.90 10.50 33.09 0.64 0.65 1.55 6,00

CHANGE

0.06 0.35 0.13 0.90 0.50 1.57 0.03 0.03 0.07 0.25

O/PRICE 29.50 1.23 3.54 1.75 8.05 4.10 6.30 1.68 11.97 17.00

C/PRICE 26.57 1.12 3.23 1.60 1.65 3.90 6.00 1.60 11.41 16.21

CHANGE 2.93 0.11 0.31 0.15 0.40 0.20 0.30 0.08 0.56 0.79

Exchange Rate (N) 155.2 155.8 155.7

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

CAPITAL MARKET INDEX Year Start Offer

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

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%

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%

NIBOR Tenor 7 Days 30 Days 60 Days 150 Days

NSE CAP Index

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

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

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

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

% Change -1.44% -1.44%

MEMORANDUM QUOTATIONS Name

LOSERS AS AT 24-10-12

SYMBOL PZ FIDSON DNMEYER STERNBANK ARBICO SKYEBANK CCNN MAYBAKER CACPROP FIRSTBANK

Amount Sold ($) 150m 138m 113m

EXHANGE RATE 6-03-12 Currency

Tenor 91-Day 182-Day 1-Year

to manage the deadly impact of worsening drought, rising food prices, rapid population growth, and volatile weather patterns.

With many African farmers effectively cut off from the high-yield seeds, and the affordable fertilizers and pesticides needed to expand their crop production, the continent has turned to foreign imports to meet its growing needs in staple foods.

“Africa has the ability to grow and deliver good quality food to put on the dinner tables of the continent’s families. “However, this potential is not being realised because farmers face more trade barriers in getting their food to market than anywhere else in the world. Too often borders get in the way of getting food to homes and communities, which are struggling with too little to eat,” Makhtar Diop, World Bank Vice President for Africa said.

The new report suggests that if the continent’s leaders can embrace more dynamic inter-regional trade, Africa’s farmers, the majority of whom are women, could potentially meet the continent’s rising demand and benefit from a major growth opportunity. It would also create more jobs in services such as distribution, while reducing poverty and cutting back on expensive food imports. Africa’s production of staple foods is worth at least $50 billion a year.

WHOLESALE DUTCH AUCTION SYSTEM

MANAGED FUNDS

OBB Rate Call Rate

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HE African continent would generate an ex tra $20 billion in yearly earnings if African leaders can agree to dismantle trade barriers that blunt more regional dynamism, the World Bank has said. It disclosed this in a report released on the eve of an African Union (AU) ministerial summit in Addis Ababa on agriculture and trade.

In a statement, the bank said that Africa’s farmers can potentially grow enough food to feed the continent and avert future food crises if countries remove crossborder restrictions on the food trade within the region.

The report urged African leaders to improve trade so that food can move more freely between countries and from fertile areas to those where communities are suffering food shortages. “The World Bank expects demand for food in Africa to double by the year 2020 as people increasingly leave the countryside and move to the continent’s cities,” it said.

According to the new report, Africa Can Help Feed Africa: Removing barriers to regional trade in food staples ¯ rapid urbanisation will challenge the ability of farmers to ship their cereals and other foods to consumers when the nearest trade market is just across a national border.

It said that countries south of the Sahara, could significantly boost their food trade over the next several years

DATA BANK

Tenor

NIDF NESF

World Bank forecasts $20b agric earnings for Africa

Offer Price

Bid Price

ARM AGGRESSIVE 9.17 KAKAWA GUARANTEED 1.00 STANBIC IBTC GUARANTE 126.78 AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUND 126.95 LOTUS CAPITAL HALAL 0.79 BGL SAPPHIRE FUND 1.10 BGL NUBIAN FUND 0.93 NIGERIA INTERNATIONAL DEB. 1,738.57 PARAMOUNT EQUITY FUND 10.45 CONTINENTAL UNIT TRUST 1.39 CENTRE-POINT UNIT TRUST 1.87 STANBIC IBTC NIG EQUITY 9,223.00 THE DISCOVERY FUND 193.00 FIDELITY NIGFUND 1.67 • ARM AGGRESSIVE • KAKAWA GUARANTEED • STANBIC IBTC GUARANTE • AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUND

9.08 1.00 126.47 126.33 0.76 1.10 0.91 1,732.32 9.94 1.33 1.80 0.00 191.08 1.62

Movement

OPEN BUY BACK

Bank P/Court

Previous 04 July, 2012

Current 07, Aug, 2012

8.5000 8.0833

8.5000 8.0833

Movement

THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

56

NEWS

Two kidnapped in Anambra

Ebonyi council poll: Elechi warns PDP, others against violence From Ogbonnaya Obinna, Abakaliki

E

BONYI State Governor Martin Elechi yesterday accused some people he called “powerful gladiators” in the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and other parties in the state of planning violence ahead of next year’s local government election.

The governor said his accusation was based on the security report he received from the police and the State Security Service (SSS).

Addressing reporters in Abakaliki, the state capital, the Commissioner for Information and State Orientation Chike Onwe said Elechi expressed concern about the alleged plan.

The commissioner said the governor spoke when he addressed the State Executive Council (Exco).

Onwe noted that the warning was necessary because “a threat of violence anywhere is a threat to peace”.

According to him, the warning is not tied to only the ruling PDP because the council poll is not about a particular party only.

Onwe said: “Politics is a sectors. Irrespective of which party you belong to or whichever organisation you find yourself, your activities at one level or in one form will always affect what is happening in other sub-sector of the political sector.

“The report is not tied essentially to the ruling PDP. It is a general report, and the local government election is not for one political party. In whatever platform you find yourself, you should conduct yourself properly. Just try to do things that are civil: carry on with your followers the best manner that is safe.

Even if you are in the PDP, you should also be well guided by the programmes and policies of the party.”

‘Policemen in Abia not tax collectors’ From Ugochukwu Ugoji-Eke, Umuahia

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THE Abia State Police Commissioner Ambrose Aisabor has warned his men to desist from following tax collectors or face the full wrath of the police edict.

He warned that any policeman caught accompanying tax collectors to harass any resident would be dismissed and prosecuted.

The police chief addressed reporters in Umuahia, the state capital.

He said the image of the police has been battered because of checkpoints.

Aisabor said the state and Nigeria would not return to the checkpoint era.

The police chief noted that it was embarrassing that policemen in the state accompanied tax collectors to beat up, harass and arrest residents to collect revenue.

F

EW hours after the Anambra State Government demolished the homes of suspected kidnappers at Uli, two people were yesterday abducted in the state.

The Vice-President of the Amalgamated Traders Association (AMATA), Chief Gozie Akudolu (aka Iroko), and the Director of Works, Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra State, Mr Ephraim

From Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, Nnewi

Enekwenchi, were abducted on Wednesday night.

Akudolu was reportedly kidnapped from his home in Umuanuka, Otolo Nnewi at 9.30pm.

A statement by the union’s Publicity Secretary Dede Uzor Uzor urged Police Commissioner Ballah Nasarawa to go after the ab-

ductors.

The statement said three gunmen held Akudolu and drove him away in his Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV).

Enekwenchi was reportedly kidnapped by unknown gunmen as he was driving to his home.

It was gathered that the polytechnic director was forced out of his vehicle, dumped in the gunmen’s operational car. They left foran

unknown destination.

Police spokesman Ralphael Uzoigwe, a Deputy Superintendent (DSP), confirmed both incidents.

He said the police would go after the kidnappers and release their victims.

Uzoigwe said the police had recovered Enekwenchi’s car.

The police spokesman assured that the suspects would be apprehended.

Tension in Onitsha over plan to relocate market

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HERE was tension yesterday at Williams Street Market, one of the major markets in Onitsha, following the government’s plan to relocate the traders to the market’s permanent site at Ogbunike, Oyi Local Government Area.

There was a brawl between the Acting Chairman of the market, Mr. Solomon Maduike, and his principal officials, after the announcement.

The chairman allegedly refused to obey the relocation order.

The Chairman of the Caretaker Committee set up

From Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, Nnewi

by the government, Mr. Gabriel Momegha, told reporters in Onitsha the committee sought an audience with the executives on the matter.

He said: “The visit was to seek the possibility of the executives of the market to relocate to the permanent site, which has been completed and officially inaugurated by the government in 2009.

“At the mere mention of Ogbunike Building Material Dealers’ Market, the Acting Chairman, Solomon Ma-

duike, started shouting on top of his voice. He said he was not interested in Ogbunike Market.

“All efforts to explain the need to relocate to the new site, have failed. We also tried to tell him about the need to relocate because Williams Street Market is no longer large enough to accommodate their goods, but he refused.”

Momegha accused a trader of masterminding the crisis.

He said: “Further attempts to calm them down by the caretaker committee officials did not yield any fruit. He walked out on us and made a

call for the police to arrest us. We quietly left the market.”

A detachment of policemen from the Central Police Station was deployed in the market to forestall a breach of the peace.

The embattled chairman allegedly mobilised to lynch the caretaker committee members.

But Maduike denied the allegation.

He said the market had not resolved to relocate to the permanent site.

Maduike described the allegation as false and malicious.

PDP to probe Elechi’s projects

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HE Ebonyi State chapter of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has said it would investigate the projects the Martin Elechi administration

From Ogbonnaya Obinna, Abakaliki

has executed.

This is to ascertain their impact on the residents, it said.

Its Chairman, Prince Ugorji Amaoti, addressed reporters in Abakaliki, the state capital, after the State Working Committee (SWC) of the party submitted its report to the State Executive Council (Exco) on the 13 local government areas and 64 development centres.

The PDP chairman said the party would not recommend any sanction against any of the council chairmen or development centre coordinator who performed below the expectation of the party until Governor Martin Elechi would have gone through the report.

He noted that the report was not to witch-hunt anybody but to ensure that those who performed below expectation are encouraged to turn a new leaf.

Submitting the report to the party Exco, Amaoti thanked the governor for giving them the opportunity to interact with him.

He explained that the PDP embarked on the tour of the

councils to get first-hand information on their operations.

The party chairman said the PDP occasionally undertook oversight functions on the performance of those it elected to manage the affairs of the people.

Amaoti said the report was in two parts: the major copy and the abridged version.

He noted that the report would enable the government to have a deeper insight into the councils.

The party also presented Party Project Magazine and wall clocks with the PDP insignia.

Amaoti said the clocks would be given to political appointees and elected members of the party to remind them that they are products of the PDP. Elechi hailed the party chieftains for their innovativeness.

He said: “We have a chairman, who has so much confidence in our party. Yet, he is unassuming.”

The governor said the tour was to ensure that those who emerged through the party deliver the dividends of democracy to the people.

•Elechi

Elechi noted that the zonal leadership of the party had undertaken similar trips.

He added: “We hope the national leadership will also do the same. If this can’t be done state by state, it could be zone by zone.”

The governor said his administration will, by December, tour the local governments to interact with the people and thank them for the mandate they gave him.

Elechi added that the government would study the report and encourage sanction against any erring council.

Anambra to sustain women empowerment

A

ANAMBRA State Governor Peter Obi has said his administration will sustain the tempo of women empowerment.

The governor spoke at the Government House in Awka when he received a delegation of the National Centre for Women Development.

He noted that the empowerment and motivation of women would have a multiplier effect on poverty reduction and promotion of quality life in families.

Obi said massive infrastructural development in rural communities has enabled women to have access to cities and boosted the rural

From Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, Nnewi

economy.

The governor said the collaboration with donor agencies and development partners has helped the state to fill budgetary gaps and accelerated the drive for the attainment of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).

The Commissioner for Women’s Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Henrietta Agbata, said the delegation was in the state to tour its skill acquisition projects in Idemili North, Ogbaru and Orumba South Local Gov-

ernment Areas.

The commissioner said the delegation was satisfied with the quality of work at the centres.

She said the Obi administration has given women stronger voice.

The director-general of the centre, Mrs. Fatima Hassan Bertora, hailed the governor for his prompt response to the recent floods and providing succour for the victims.

She said the projects were the centre’s contributions to the women empowerment programmes of the government to alleviate poverty.

THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

57

NEWS

I

Travellers agonise on Abuja-Lokoja Expressway

T was a nightmare yesterday for commuters and motorists travelling on the Abuja-Lokoja Road to various destinations for the Eid-el-Kabir holiday.

A correspondent of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), who left Abuja at 7 am, did not arrive at Abaji, in the Federal Capital Territory, until 2 pm, a journey of one hour on a normal occasion.

A combined team of soldiers, police, civil defence and road safety corps mem-

From Gbenga Omokhunu, Abuja

bers worked hard to clear the bottleneck at Gwagwalada, also in the capital territory, earlier in the day.

It was not clear what caused the gridlock at Abaji, but motorists blamed it on the security checkpoint in the area, manned by soldiers.

The checkpoint has been

in existence for several months and has disrupted traffic, especially on holidays.

While some motorists called for a speedy completion of the dual carriageway, others decried the delay caused by security agencies at the checkpoints.

Mrs Esther Nwafor, a civil servant travelling to Lagos, called on the government to find a lasting solution to

the problem on the highway.

“It is surprising that the expansion of the road is taking too long considering its importance as a major link between the North and the South.”

Another traveller, Mr. Timothy Olaoye, said motorists should exercise patience instead of driving against traffic or jumping the queue.

Also, hawkers around the area had a field day selling food and drinks.

•Vice-President Namadi Sambo (middle) with Chinese Vice Minister of Commerce, Mr Li Jinzaqs *left) and Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Peng Boqing during the visit of Chinese Vice Minister to the Presidential Villa, Abuja. PHOTO: NAN

Niger to employ 293 health workers HE Niger State Government will employ about 300 health workers to address a shortfall in the number of public health workers.

At its weekly meeting yesterday in Minna, the state capital, the State Executive Council (Exco) approved the employment of the workers through the Ministry of Health and Hospital Management Service.

The Commissioner of Health and Hospital Services, Dr. Baba Sule, said this when he briefed reporters after the State Executive Council (Exco) meeting in Minna.

He said the government’s decision was informed by the need to bridge the manpower gap in the face of rapid expansion in the sector and the high rate of retirement of workers.

Admiting that the current workforce in the health sector was inadequate, the commissioner said the new recruits would improve what is needed and what would be supplied.

Giving a breakdown of those to be employed, Sule said 251 would be employed into the state Hospital Management Board.

The commissioner said 100 would be nurses and midwives, 20 doctors, five pharmacists, 11 laboratory scientists, 25 laboratory technicians, 80 ward attendants and 10 medical record officers.

He added that 42 workers would be employed into

T

From Jide Orintunsin, Minna

the Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida Specialised Hospital in Minna.

Of this figure, he said five would be doctors, 10 nurses, three pharmacists, four laboratory scientists, five laboratory technicians, 10 ward attendants and five medical record officers.

Sule said from 2012 to 2015, an estimated 255 nurses would retire in the state.

He added that this was why the government decided to employ more health workers.

The government also inaugurated a committee to monitor the implementation of projects executed by the Babangida Aliyu administration.

These include those attached to the N9billion collected from the capital market.

The Chairman of the Monitoring Committee, Prof Mohammed Kuta Yahaya, addressed reporters in Minna.

He explained that the government wanted to ensure that the projects are executed according to specifications and meet the people’s expectations.

He said: “The state government wants to have value for money spent and ensure timely completion of the projects. We want to put all ministries and departments involved on their toes.”

Governor gets gender-friendly award From Kolade Adeyemi, Kano

Judicial officers urged to shun partisan politics HE Convener of the Concerned Benue Citizens Coalition (aka G10), Comrade Philip Agbese, has urged the Chief Jude, Justice Iorhemen Hwande, to check the activities of some judicial officers in the state.

Agbese expressed concern over the forthcoming local government election in the state.

He noted that the readiness

T

of the State Electoral Commission (BESIEC) to conduct a free and fair election is no longer in doubt.

The Convener said the activities of some judicial officers have become worrisome.

Agbese added that unless the Judicial officers are checked, their activities can erode the confidence the people have in the nation’s democracy.

He said: “The state of af-

fairs in Benue State at the moment is quite commendable, considering the fearless and patriotic posture the State Independent Electoral Commission has maintained in the discharge of its duties in the forthcoming elections.

But it is not yet uhuru, because we have to monitor them to ensure there is a free, fair and transparent contest that provides a level-playing field for all the actors.

“Nevertheless, the activities of some judicial officers in the system tend to pose a great challenge to our democracy, if the Chief Judge, Justice Iorhemen Hwande, does not call them to order.

“We at G10 are confident that His Lordship is going to call his men to order to accord all actors in the game the right to fair participation and the confidence to seek redress, where necessary.”

CAN, Okorocha, Fayemi, congratulate Onaiyekan

T

HE Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Imo State Governor Rochas Okorocha and his Ekiti State counterpart, Dr Kayode Fayemi, have joined other eminent Nigerians to congratulate the Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, John Onaiyekan on his appointment as a Cardinal by Pope Benedict XVI. CAN President Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor conveyed the association’s message in a letter to Onaiyekan.

The letter reads: “It is with joy that I received the news of your appointment as a Cardinal of the Roman Catholic Church by His Holiness, Pope Benedict XVI. “I am happy that this appointment has placed Nigeria on the world map of Christendom and that your fame now spans the globe.

“I am particularly happy because of your current status as one of the ‘Cardinal electors’, a position which qualifies you to be among those to choose Pope Ben-

From Gbenga Omokhunu, Abuja and Sulaiman Salawudeen, Edo-Ekiti

edict’s successor. Remain blessed.

“I pray that with this appointment, you will pursue with vigour those attributes that earned you this appointment.”

Okorocha, in a statement by his Media Adviser Ebere Uzoukwa, said the appointment is a testimony that “Archbishop Onaiyekan clearly represents a dedicated and committed servant of God, whose exemplary devotion to the Catholic Church in Nigeria, has not gone unnoticed by the Vatican.

“It also signifies the fact that God has not forsaken Nigeria and its people as something good can still be found in our dear country. “ A r c h b i s h o p Onaiyekan’s elevation is no doubt a blessing to Nigeria and Africa and we will remain grateful to God for his grace and mercy to us.

“We pray God Almighty to grant the Cardinal the good health and wisdom to discharge his responsibilities as expected.”

Fayemi noted that Onaiyekan’s elevation was a worthy recognition by Pope Benedict XVI. In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Yinka Oyebode, the governor described the elevation as a boost to Nigeria’s image in the international community.

He said the cleric’s new status has lifted Nigeria in the realm of international religious diplomacy and the quest for understanding among the great religions of the world.

Fayemi noted that the appointment is well-deserved given Onaiyekan’s dedication to duty and diligent service in the Roman Catholic Church in the last 40 years.

The governor said the appointment has proved that Nigeria has men and women of integrity who can be en-

trusted with leadership positions locally and globally.

He urged Onaiyekan to use his new position to rededicate himself to the service of God and humanity.

Fayemi advised the new Cardinal to ensure unity in the Christendom and among followers of other religions as he used to do.

The governor was confident that Onaiyekan would live up to the expectation of his new status, adding that he has never disappointed.

He recalled that Onaiyekan had received plaudits as Catholic Bishop of Ilorin Diocese, Archbishop of Abuja Diocese and a former President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN).

Fayemi added that the new Cardinal ensured unity among Christians and Muslims during his tenure as CAN President.

The governor congratulated Catholics, the Christian community and Nigerians for the recognition.

HE Institute of Gender Studies Nigeria has honoured Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso with the Most Gender-Friendly Award.

The institute said it was in recognition of his gender-balanced policies and programmes.

The governor, the institute said, has given women a significant leverage to realise their potential as active participants in the socio-economic development of the state and Nigeria.

The Commissioner for Information, Youths, and Sports, Dr Umar Farouk Jubril, received the award on behalf of the governor at the Musa Ya’Adua Centre in Abuja.

The occasion was this year’s Women Leaders’ Conference, with the theme: Nigerian Women are Coming.

Other recipients include Sokoto State Governor Magatakarda Wamako, who received the Most Sensitive Governor in the Northwest.

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Kwankwaso urges contractors to expand roads with service lanes From Kolade Adeyemi, Kano

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HE Kano State Government has directed contractors handling the Hadejia, Gwarzo and Zaria road dualisation in Kano city to include proposals on the extension of the roads with service lanes.

Governor Musa Kwankwaso gave the directive when he visited Hadejia road project site.

The governor noted that the expansion would enhance smooth vehicular traffic.

He said his administration awarded the contracts to create more transportation infrastructure for the growing population of the state.

Kwankwaso, who also visited the ongoing construction of the Kwankwasiyya Road in Gobirawa area of Kano, said the government would compensate owners of structures that would be affected by the project.

The governor said the Ministry of Land would make some adjustments on the project.

According to him, the government will ensure that all alternative routes on the Kofar Nassarwa axis are renovated to avoid traffic gridlocks when the construction of Kofar Nassarwa multi-billion naira flyovers begin.

Kwankwaso also inspected refuse dumps at Jakara and Kwanar Goda in Dala and Kano Municipal Local Government Areas.

The governor directed the state refuse disposal agency, REMASAB, to ensure that garbage is removed from roadsides in the city.

He visited Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital, Kano, where he expressed satisfaction with the workers and directed the Commissioner of Health to correct some projects recently executed in the hospital.

THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

58

NEWS Cross River ACN candidate’s whereabouts unknown

Slain boy’s father seeks justice From Osemwengie Ben Ogbemudia, Benin

From Nicholas Kalu, Calabar

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WO months after his son, Solomon, was murdered, Mr. Austine Onyeoghani has urged the police to ensure the killer is brought to book.

Onyeoghani, in a statement, said justice delayed is justice denied.

He said: “I have come here so that you people can help me cry to the whole world, particularly the police hierarchy in this country.

Two months after, police is yet to arrest the killer of my son.

“They have collected all the relevant details about the boy that stabbed him to death, Kelubia Chukwuma.

They have his identity and photograph, yet no effort seems to be made to arrest the boy. The parents of the boy, from reliable information, know where their son ran to and they do not want to hand him over to the police.

“I want justice to prevail because my son cannot just die like that. The boy and his parents are boasting that nothing will happen, that I have no money to pursue the case. You know how painful it is for a father to lose his only son?

“I had two children, a boy and a girl. I am only left with a girl. What am I livings for again? All I want is for the government to arrest and prosecute my son’s killer. I want justice to prevail in this matter.

“The boy’s parents are in Warri. The mother is hiding somewhere and the father is moving freely, while my son is lying lifeless at the Warri Central Hospital’s morgue.

“I want the mother of the boy arrested, because if she had cautioned her son on that fateful day, all these would not have happened. I want justice and that is why I am here.”

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•Anambra State Governor Peter Obi in a caterpillar meant for the repair of Onitsha roads...yesterday.

From left: Minister of State for Niger Delta Affairs Hajia Zainab Kuchi; Minister of Works Mike Onolememen; Minister of Niger Delta Affairs Peter Orubebe and Minister of Petroleum Resources Deziani AlisonMadueke at the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting at the State House, Abuja...on Wednesday.

PHOTO: AKIN OLADOKUN

First Lady marks 55th birthday I T was a moment of joy for the first family yesterday as the First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, marked her 55th birthday.

The celebration took place at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

Dame Jonathan, who re-

PUBLIC NOTICE CLOSURE OF IGANMU OVERHEAD BRIDGE This is to inform all motorists that the Iganmu Overhead Bridge leading to the National Theatre will be closed on Saturday October 27, 2012 and Sunday October 28, 2012 between 7am – 12noon.

It is to allow for the erection of pressurised beams for Lagoon Bridge structure over Eric Moore.

All motorists using this overhead bridge are requested to use alternate routes during the hours.

Management China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC).

PUBLIC NOTICE HOPE-ALIVE CHRISTIAN CHAPEL INTERNATIONAL The General Public is hereby notified that the above chapel has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission, Abuja for registration under Part ‘C’ of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.

Pastor Matthew Adebisi 2.

Pastor (Mrs.) Olubukola Adebisi 3.

Engr. Ayandiran Kayode 4.

Pastor (Engr.) Nwaneli Chinedu Okwudili 5.

Pastor Ogoleh Efe Franklin 6.

Engr. Jegede Moses Kayode 7.

Barr. Johnson Oshoma AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. To preach the full gospel of Jesus Christ in all parts of Nigeria and beyond through crusades, seminars, conferences, revival meetings, retreats, radio, television and gospel music bringing hope to the hopeless.

2. To establish and maintain Churches, Missions, Schools, Bible Schools, Hospitals, Orphanages as well as organizing conferences that promotes moral attitude and growth of the society.

3. To enhance, elevate and restore the dignity and integrity of members and the society at large Any objection to the registration of the above mentioned body should be addressed to the Registrar General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Garki-Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGN: BARR. JOHNSON OSHOMA (08066621452)

From Vincent Ikuomola, Abuja

turned to the country recently after a prolonged stay in Germany, thanked God for keeping her alive.

She described her recent experience as God’s design for her life and thanked her immediate family and Nigerians for praying for her.

Dame Jonathan was showered with gifts by her husband, President Goodluck Jonathan, who described her as a shining star in his life.

He thanked God for granting her good health.

The event was marked with thanksgiving prayers and presentation of gifts by family, well wishers and friends.

Jonathan, after presenting a gift to his wife, said: “I thank God for her life and that she is not celebrating the day on a sick bed.

“She is the brightest star in my life. She is my jewel of inestimable value and I thank God for granting her good health.”

The First Lady said whatever happened to her was God’s design for her life.

She said: “I thank God for the gift of life and I deeply appreciate and thank my beloved husband for his love and support. I also thank my family, staff and Nigerians for praying for me.”

The event was marked with thanksgiving prayers and presentation of gifts by family, well wishers and friends, including Ondo State Governor Olusegun Mimiko and his wife, Olukemi; ministers of Women’s Affairs, Finance, Aviation, Labour and Foreign Affairs.

Rivers not volatile, says Amaechi

R

IVERS State Governor Rotimi Amaechi yesterday said the state is not volatile.

The governor said a few persons erroneously claimed that the state was crisis-prone.

He spoke at a news conference at the Hotel Presidential, Port Harcourt on the “Port Harcourt Carnival,” tagged: CARNIRIV. Amaechi, who was represented by the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Nabs Imegbu, assured the people who would be

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attending CARNIRIV of adequate security.

The event was attended by the Chairman of the State Tourism Development Agency, Mr. Emeka Woke; the agency’s Director-General, Sam Dede, who is a veteran actor, and the Mayor (Chairman) of Port Harcourt City Local Government, Mr. Chimbiko Akarolo.

Amaechi said: “Port Harcourt and other parts of Rivers State are not volatile. The state is the most peaceful in Nigeria. Investors are trooping in.

“The carnival should remain a key ingredient in our end-of-the-year activities.

We intend to make CARNIRIV the best. We need the support and part-

nership of the private sector and other stakeholders.”

The theme of the carnival is: “Reminiscing our past, consolidating our future”.

Nobel Laureate Prof.

Wole Soyinka will deliver the keynote address at a colloquium on December 10.

The agency’s Director-the General described the CARNIRIV, which began in 1988, as the oldest carnival in Nigeria. He said there would be improvement every year, adding that this year’s edition would be bigger and better.

Dede urged people all over the world to be part of the carnival on December 8.

Former Miss World, Agbani Darego, said she was delighted to be the face of the CARNIRIV and urged people from all walks of life to attend the carnival.

HE Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in Cross River State has raised the alarm over the whereabouts of one of its candidate in the 2011 general elections, Mr. Eno Ekapong.

Ekapong contested the seat of the Yakurr/Abi Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, occupied by Mr. Bassey Eko Ewah of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

ACN Chairman Hillard Eta told The Nation in Calabar yesterday that Ekapong phoned him on Wednesday around 4pm that he had been apprehended by policemen, who claimed to have been sent by the Inspector-General of Police from Abuja.

He said: “Members of the PDP and ACN were sitting out in two groups when a member of the PDP decided to pass in the midst to go and ease himself. He was quietly asked to go back, which he did without any problem.

“Later, two policemen, Inspector Ibrahim Ado and ASP I. Bello, who claimed they were sent by the IG to arrest him at his guest house, Amex Hotel, for threat to life.

“Right now, we do not know where he is. We have looked everywhere and cannot find him.

“We want to know where Ekapong is. Even if there was such thing as a threat to life, is it such that the local police cannot handle? We call on the IG to present him to us. No harm should come to him.”

President for Akwa Ibom

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RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan will pay aone day working visit to Akwa Ibom State tomorrow.

Commissioner for Information and Communications Aniekan Umanah said the President would lay the foundation of the International Stadium in Uyo and inaugurate the new Governor’s Office.

The new Governor’s Office has a conference room, a lounge, a multi-media studio, a press room and an Executive Council Chambers with video conferencing facilities, among others.

The stadium has a classic multi-purpose layout, comprising running tracks, two-tiered seating arrangement, a football pitch and eight-lane 400m standard track, including complete athletic facilities.

The access and exit system of the stadium complies with international safety requirements. It provides emergency routes and allows an evacuation time of less than eight minutes. It will, on completion, be equipped with three video boards under the roof.

Preparations are in top gear for President’s visit.

THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

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FOREIGN NEWS Bahamas residents prepare for Hurricane Sandy

•Syrian men step out from an old taxi vehicle after it stopped in a flooded avenue following heavy rain in the northern city of Aleppo, on October 25. The Syrian military and the country’s main rebel force have agreed to halt combat operations from Friday morning for the Muslim holiday weekend, but both also reserved the right to respond to attacks.

Obama to cast vote early in Chicago

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RESIDENT Barack Obama will be the first president to vote early, as part of a two-day campaign marathon across eight states.

His Republican challenger, Mitt Romney, is in Ohio, a swing state which could hold the key to the White House.

A new Associated Press poll suggests Romney has eked out a slight national edge over Obama, by 47 per cent to 45 per cent.

The survey also showed that Romney had erased some of the president’s lead among women, although Obama had sliced into his rival’s lead with male voters.

Med-View hails Fed Govt over zero tariff HE Managing Director of Med-View Airline, Alhaji Muneer Bankole has praisedthe Federal Government and Minister of Aviation, Princess Stella Oduah on the recent removal of Customs duties on commercial aircraft and imported spare parts for indigenous airline operators.

The airline also lauded Oduah for the inauguration of the General Aviation Terminal (GAT) of the Murtala Muhammed Airport (MMA), Lagos.

Speaking with reporters in Lagos yesterday, Bankole said that the zero tariff regimes would help airline investors invest their resources to other important areas in the sector.

Bankole explained that the action of the government would give airline investors in the sector extra capital that could be spent in other areas of the highly capital intensive sector.

He noted that although the gesture was long overdue as other airline operators in the continent, Europe and America have been enjoying the benefits for sometime now, but stressed that this would make the indigenous airlines compete favourably with their counterparts anywhere in the world.

He said: “This is something worth commending the government for by every investors and professionals in the sector.”

56 killed in Rakhine clashes

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T least 56 people have been killed and hundreds of homes torched since Sunday, as clashes spread in Burma’s Rakhine state, officials say.

Several were killed overnight as violence erupted despite a night-time curfew in at least two towns.

The latest clashes are the first serious outburst of violence since June when a state of emergency was declared in Rakhine after 90 people were killed.

But tensions remained high between ethnic Rakhine Buddhists and Muslims.

It is unclear what prompted the latest clashes. The Rakhine

Buddhists and Muslims blame each other for the violence.

Clashes erupted in the Ratha Taung township late last night but this later spread to the Kyauk Taw township, where security forces opened fire, reports say.

Rakhine state spokesman Win Myaing told BBC Burmese yesterday that the total death toll since violence flared up again on Sunday had reached 56.

More than 1,000 houses have been torched since then and police have deployed reinforcements in the townships of Min Bya and Mrauk Oo, where curfews are now in effect.

The rape and murder of a young Buddhist woman in Rakhine in May set off a chain of deadly religious clashes.

A state of emergency allows the introduction of martial law, which means the military can take over administrative control of the region.

The United Nations describes Rohingya as a persecuted religious and linguistic minority from western Burma. The Burmese government, on the other hand, says they are relatively recent migrants from the Indian sub-continent. Neighbouring Bangladesh already hosts several hundred thousand refugees from Burma and says it cannot

take any more.

It was the rape and murder of a Buddhist woman by three Muslims in May that set off the initial unrest.

A mob later killed 10 Muslims in retaliation, although they were unconnected with the earlier incident, and the violence escalated after that.

In June, about 90 people were killed as clashes spread across the state.

The houses of both Buddhists and Muslims were burnt down and thousands of people fled.

Muslims throughout Burma have abandoned plans to celebrate the festival of Eid alAdha because of the violence.

Journalist’s widow inaugurates foundation

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IDOW of the late journalist, Bayo Ohu, Blessing, has immortalised her husband.

She also inaugurated a foundation in his memory to commemorate the third anniversary of his death in Lagos yesterday.

According to Mrs. Ohu, the foundation, inspired by her experience, is out to empower widows.

She recounted her experience, saying the journey has not been easy.

The event was witnessed by several widows including the wives of some deceased journalists led by The Nation’s Edoh Ugbagwu’s wife, Mariam.

“I have also passed through some tough times. So, I know how it feels when, you’d look for friends, neighbours, family and you won’t find them. It is not enough to give the widows food. Today is the formal unveiling of the Bayo Ohu Foundation, which is centred on empowering widows. I have had a dream of making widows smile,” Mrs. Ohu said.

With the theme: Every widow deserves to smile, it empowered four widows, namely: Mrs. Esther Osahon, Mrs. Mercy Nwagasi, Mrs. Maryam Mohammed and Juliana Udeh.

To the widows, she said: “To be a widow is not a curse.

Widows, you deserve to smile. Bayo Ohu Foundation is set to put a smile on your faces.”

•Mrs Adeoso (left); Head, High International Organisation, Pastor Tinu Odugbemi and Mrs Ohu... yesterday PHOTO: ISAAC AYODELE

By Evelyn Osagie

The widows went home with grinding machines, lots of foodstuffs and provisions.

The donation came as a relief for the recipients, according to Mrs. Osahon, who lost her husband three years ago. She said: “The donation has come at a right time. We are really suffering. Mrs. Ohu has made us laugh. From now on, these items will bring more money for me and keep food on our table. Thank you Bayo Ohu Foundation. Thank you Blessing.”

Lagos State Deputy Governor, Mrs. Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, who was represented by her Special Assistant on Media, Mr.

Tunde Abatan, hailed the efforts of Mrs. Ohu, advising other widows to learn from her example. She urged Nigerians to reach out to the widows around them.

Mr. Abatan, who recounted his experience as an orphan, enjoined widows to focus on caring for their children.

He said: “Those passing through it know how deep the trauma is. I know what it means; my mother went through it for 42 years. I had a lot of dreams that were dashed. But my mother stood up for us and trained us.

Today, we are the best in the family.”

The founder of the Head High International Organisation, Mrs. Tinu

Odugbemi, linked the plights of widows to the kind of marriage contracted. She said there are many unclaimed accounts in banks because families, especially women, failed to acquaint themselves with their husbands’ businesses. She advised women to move close to their husbands.

“Deal with your pain and move on with your lives,” some widows whose lives have become success stories such as the author of Coping with Widowhood, Mrs. Margaret Adeoso, founder of Centre for Moral Development, Pastor (Mrs.) Aduragbemi Alagbada, Mrs. Ugbagwu and Mrs. Adeoso advised.

GIVEN their geography, Bahamians know a thing or two about hurricanes.

As Hurricane Sandy approached the Bahamas after pummeling eastern Cuba, Nassau resident Stephan Rolle wasn’t overly worried.

It is a “small storm” with “mediocre wind,” he said of the Category 2 hurricane with winds of 105 mph.

But as the storm churned 65 miles south-southwest of the Bahamas’ Long Island on Thursday, Rolle and others also knew they had to prepare.

Rolle, 29, waited for 40 minutes in line at a grocery store to purchase nonperishable goods and bread. He moved the potted plants and emptied part of his family’s pool to make room for the rainwater.

Jamaica, southern U.S. brace for Sandy. Sandy may not be a Category 5 monster, but “we take it seriously, and we just want to make sure we are comfortable,” he said.

Single mum challenges dismissal from Air Force REBECCA Edmonds grew up a military kid and, like most military families, often moved as her dad rose through the ranks of the Navy.

Enamored with the military and her father’s service to his country, Edmonds decided in high school that military life was calling her.

“I think it’s definitely a tight-knit community, and I was willing to be a part of that,” Edmonds recalled of her decision to join the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps, commonly called ROTC, at age 18.

“I think the families are welcomed. I remember going to a base, and we’d be welcomed by these families we didn’t even know. “ When the Air Force offered her a full scholarship to Marquette University, Edmonds jumped at the chance to become a nurse and serve her country. Marquette is a Catholic university, a perfect fit for the practising Catholic.

Nothing captured her feeling of community and sense of military pride more than when her equally proud father, Capt. Tony Edmonds, swore in his oldest child as a second lieutenant in the United States Air Force.

“It was very special,’’ she recalled of her commissioning in July 2011, shortly after college graduation. “I was so happy that (my parents) had an opportunity to come out and be a part of that ceremony and have him administer the oath of office to me as an active-duty officer.”

Today, her dream of serving her country has been shattered.

Rebecca Edmonds shakes her father’s hand after her commissioning as an Air Force officer. Weeks before being commissioned as a military officer, Edmonds discovered that she was pregnant.

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THE NATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

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NEWS Govt ministries, agencies get N300b capital allocation

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INISTRIES, Department and Agencies (MDAs) have received N300billion being the capital allocation for the fourth quarter.

Following the release of the fund, the Federal Ministry of Finance said the total capital allocation released is now N1.01 trillion, of the N1.3trillion proposed in the 2012 budget.

The cash represents 75 per cent of the capital budget for 2012, Mr. Paul Nwabuikwu, Special Assistant to Finance Minister Dr. Ngozi Okonjo – Iweala, said yesterday. He said the release of the fund is also to ensure that the momentum on capital budget implementation is maintained as the year comes to a close.

Nwabuikwu added that the impact of budget implementation could be seen in various sectors of the economy.

He said power supply in many parts of the country has improved to a consistent level of 15

By Nduka Chiejina (Assistant Editor)

hours per day; the rehabilitation of existing power infrastructure has yielded up to 1000 megawatts of additional electricity; the NIPP projects are being fast tracked, which will lead to an additional 1055 megawatts by year end and that the prospects for progress in power supply have increased significantly, with the imminent conclusion of the privatisation programme.

In agriculture, he said the desire to meet the 3.5 million jobs target by 2015 has led to the establishment of 13 private sector rice mills, with capacity of 240,000 metric tonnes and that one million metric tonnes of dried cassava chips have so far been exported to China.

The performance of the 2012 budget, he added, has brought about “the Railway modernisation programme, with the Abu-

ja-Kaduna line now at 46 per cent completion, the rehabilitation of the Lagos-Kano and LagosIbadan lines has opened up new platforms for passenger traffic while the Abuja Light rail project is making progress”.

On job creation, he said the implementation of the 2012 budget has so far brought about “the Community Services, Women and Youth Employment Programme of SURE-P launched in February 2012 and already working in 14 states, targeting 370,000 jobs per year, the second edition of the YOUWIN job programme, which focuses on women entrepreneurs, has been launched by President Goodluck Jonathan.

YOUWIN targets 80,000-100,000 jobs over three years.

He added that this year’s budget implementation has boosted the ports reform resulting in the “clearance time for cargoes in the ports reduced from 39 days to seven days”.

‘PDP, Senator behind Boko Haram’ Continued from page 2

incident and Senator Zanna’s possible links with Boko Haram, and also his Hajj-byroad activities for which he was suspected to have used as a façade for the importation of arms and window for the training of terrorists.

“It is on record that the Joint Task Force in Maiduguri had on Friday 19th October, 2012 announced the arrest of one Shuaibu Muhammed Bama in the house of a serving Senator along Damboa Road, GRA, Maiduguri.

“It is on record that shortly after the JTF announcement, Senator Ahmed, who represents Borno Central, came out publicly in a BBC Hausa Service interview to own up that he is the only senator whose house is along Damboa Road; he also went ahead to admit that the arrested suspect is his nephew and lives with him in his house.

“It is also on record that the

State Security Service has invited Senator Zanna to clarify his involvement with the suspect and his links with Boko Haram.

“Senator Zanna, in a comic uturn, shortly after these developments, told journalists in a face-saving interview that while he could not deny his relationship with his nephew, he disowned his house where the JTF arrested the suspect, stressing that the house belongs to Senator Ali Modu-Sheriff, the immediate past former governor of Borno State.

“Given his recent political en-

counter with the immediate past governor, now the BOT chairman of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), Senator Ali Modu-Sheriff, he appears desperate to settle scores by dragging Ali Sheriff into the controversy.

“It is laughable that instead of defending his obvious involvement with Boko Haram, given his antecedence where people finger him as an illegal importer of arms via his Hajjby-road fame, Senator Zanna is desperately looking for somebody to hang for his sins.”

Governor injured in plane crash Continued from page 2

Abeokuta, Ogun State between 1985 and 1986. He worked at the General Hospital, Ganye in the old Gongola State (which became Adamawa and Taraba states) until 1991.

This month has been full of action for Suntai. His state was one of the 13 hit by a massive flooding. His running battle his deputy, Alhaji Sani Abubakar Danladi ended on the impeachment of Danladi by the House of Assembly on October 4.

He received President Goodluck Jonathan who visted the Lao Lag camp of the displaced persons as a result of the flood last week.

Jonathan, Mark, Tambuwal urge peace, tolerance at Sallah Continued from page 2

manity.

He urged all citizens to reinforce “the African spirit of brotherhood, love, solidarity and unity which were the hallmarks of our communal life’’.

“We all have a stake in the project Nigeria. We must shun divisive tendencies and come together against all forces of darkness that seems to be dragging us back.

“We have come a long way.

We cannot at this stage … with the future of our nation. We desire peace. We need to make progress.’’ He said.

Tambuwal urged Nigerians to be law abiding at all times and restore the virtues of good neighbourliness.

His statement, signed by his Media and Public Affairs adviser Malam Imam Imam, said for Nigeria to make the progress it desired, the citizenry at all levels must be their brother’s keepers and be more sensitive to the well-being of one another.

According to him, all Nigerians must show commitment and readiness to make sacrifice toward the development of the nation.

He said that making sacrifice for the nation had become imperative now more than ever before, considering the numerous challenges confronting the nation.

The speaker added that while every nation on earth had peculiar challenges confronting its people, the determination to tackle those challenges at times

sets some of them apart.

“We must face our problems with more commitment, determination, unity of purpose and the best of intentions,’’ he said.

He enjoined Muslim faithful to use the occasion to reflect on their spiritual lives.

“Let me use this opportunity to urge Nigerians, especially adherents of the Islamic faith, to use the occasion to reflect on our spiritual life as individuals and how we can contribute more meaningfully toward making Nigeria the great nation envisioned by its founding fathers.’’

Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu said only peaceful co-existence, selflessness and obedience to Allah and the laws will take Nigeria to the promised land.

Ekweremadu noted that “the essence of life is obedience to Allah as well as service and love to both Allah and humanity’’.

He observed that corruption, greed, and wilful disobedience to Allah and the teachings of the prophets were largely responsible for the many challenges facing the nation.

He said that selflessness, justice and total submission to the will of Allah epitomised by Prophet Mohammud would restore the nation on to the path of speedy growth and transformation.

“We must not only seize the opportunity of the Eid-El-Kabir to pray for the peace, unity, security and prosperity of the nation.

“We must also resolve to show high sense of patriotism, submission to the rule of law.

“We also must show emulation of the great values of selflessness and love for one another to ensure that Nigeria reclaims her pride of place among the comity of nations,’’ he said.

The deputy senate president wished the Muslim Ummah and the nation a hitch-free Eid-ElKabir celebration.

Ihedioha said Nigerians should show commitment and patriotism to the cause of building “a stronger virile and prosperous country.’’

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary Oke Epia, Ihedioha noted: “Our collective efforts will certainly yield results if we persevere.’’

He urged Muslims to continue to imbibe the spirit of sacrificial giving for which the Eidel-Kabir was noted while commending them for their prayers and efforts for the nation.

The deputy speaker also called on Nigerians from all walks of life to embrace religious harmony and share in the conviviality of the celebration that “presents itself as another opportunity to display our unity in diversity as a country’’.

He congratulated the Muslim Ummah and urged them to continue to pray and work toward the unity, growth and development of Nigeria He, however, reminded them to remember the less- privileged so as to give them a sense of joy and participation in the festivities.

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SPORT EXTRA

South Africa to spend 461m Rands on AFCON S OUTH Africa on Thursday said it will spend R461 million to stage the Africa Cup of Nations next year but denied it was a "vanity project" in tough economic times.

South Africa stepped in after the football showcase was shifted from conflict torn Libya and had to find the funds to pick up the hosting tab amid a slowing economy and rising debt levels.

"We are ensuring that we cut out any form of extravagance," Deputy Finance Minister Nhlanhla Nene told reporters,

saying the tournament had not been budgeted for in the current financial year.

"What we have approved for funding for AFCON, we have cut it absolutely to the bone...I don't think we can regard it as a vanity project."

South Africa was only due to stage the continent's championship in 2017 but the country's lauded 2010 World Cup, which saw a building boom on stadiums, roads and airports, would help with hosting duties, he said.

The costs for the tournament, which runs from January 19 to

February 10, were outlined in the medium term budget policy statement which was tabled on Thursday.

Funds were diverted from reprioritised spending and will go to areas such as to host cities, security and health.

The tournament will be played in five host cities and towns -Johannesburg, Durban, Port Elizabeth, Nelspruit and the mining town Rustenburg.

South Africa is also to take over the 2014 African Nations Championship for local-based footballers.

Yobo denies surgery rumours, says he won't miss AFCON

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IGERIA’s football team captain, Joseph Yobo has told Goal.com that he is not nursing a serious knee injury that requires surgery which would keep him out of the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations in South Africa.

The Fenerbahce defender, angry at a recent news report on a football website, said it is mischievous for anybody to have concocted a story that he would be going under the surgeon’s knives because of a knee injury he copped while playing for his club. He disclosed that it was a minor swelling in the leg which has started going down.

“I can tell anybody that cares to listen that I don’t have a cruciate ligament injury that requires surgery of any kind.

What happened is that I had a

little problem on my knee which I am taking precautions on. But it doesn’t require surgery like it was reported in a local website. I only need to calm down for the swelling to come down,” said Yobo.

“I have a game on Monday which the orthomedic surgeon even said I can play if I want to.

But I don’t want to rush back to play. I want to take my time before starting to play.

“Right now I am doing a lot of strength work and to hear that there is a report saying that I am not going to be fit for the Nations Cup is very sad. It is important to cross check facts and do a lot of investigations on very delicate issues like this than to come out with false reports. This is very sad.”

Yobo missed the crucial Afcon qualifier against Liberia

26

a fortnight ago due to the strain and this has resulted in speculations about his future in the side preparing for the continental showpiece in January.

“I spoke with Coach Stephen Keshi last week after we qualified for the Nations Cup in Calabar and I told him point black I don’t need surgery and that surgery is definitely out of it. That was what we discussed and he was so happy about it. So I don’t really know where the news of surgery is coming from. I don’t want everybody concerned to be panicking for a minor case.

This is just to correct the erroneous impression.

“I am using this medium that I am going to be back pretty soon and it is definitely not going to be long I can assure them,” said Yobo.

26-10-2012

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2012

TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM

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T Sallah time, when the total submission of a man to the will of his maker is recognised and celebrated, it is appropriate to reflect on religion and the potentials it has for peace and prosperity.

The paradox of our contemporary life is that an institution that originated in the desire for peaceful co-existence has been turned into a veritable agent of war and destruction. Certainly, the various objects of human religious devotion couldn’t have been pleased with this turn of events.

Religion speaks to the heart with a message of love; and to the soul, with a promise of redemption and salvation. The major religions understand the fallen nature of humans and the need for divine favor to overcome sin and. This is what gives one inner peace—knowing that one is in tune with the Almighty.

No believer, whatever his or her faith, fails to make this his or her ultimate goal. Of course, there are other purposes, including the materialistic hope of miraculous prosperity. I dey serve my God, e dey do am for me.

And sometimes when the latter overwhelms the former, we have cases of unfulfilled expectations, leading to frustration and psychosis.

I am sure that I am not alone in being perplexed when believers of all faiths fail to translate the pursuit of inner peace that their religion affords to the pursuit of social peace. If each person is at peace with God because of his or her belief in the divine will of God, why is it so difficult to be at peace with others who are equally at peace with the divine will of God? In the matter of social peace, it is interpersonal relations that matter, and while the various religions promote inner peace of adherents, they have not been very successful in the matter of promoting interpersonal relations. I want to believe that it is not intrinsic to the religions that they neglect interpersonal relations that promote social peace. Rather, I think there is something in human nature that prevents the message of inner peace from being translated effected into a pursuit of social peace. If it is not in the nature of religion but just in the nature of humans, perhaps there is hope of transcending the aspect of human nature that makes it difficult for religious believers to promote social peace.

There is a powerful argument against what I just proposed. It goes as follows. While there is nothing inherently opposed to social peace in each religion, a pluralism of religions in a common space is not likely to promote peaceful coexistence among adherents. But we know that there is hardly a society without a multiplicity of religions or

BATE

SEGUN GBADEGESIN gbadegesin@thenationonlineng.net

Making religion work for peace ‘

Both Prophets Muhammed and Christ could not have intended their injunctions to evangelise to result in conflict and violence.

You could evangelise and preach the gospel without instigating violence. There is religious violence and conflict because the various devotees are intolerant of the views of rivals

•Map of Nigeria at least sects of the same religion. Therefore the argument is that if not by nature, then by circumstance of modern life, which brings people of different faiths and sects into a common nationspace, it is naïve to expect religion to be an agent of peace. Why not?

Looking at the injunctions of each of the major religions, it is hard to defend the foregoing position. Christianity is a religion of peace, with its injunction to believers to be peacemakers so they can be blessed. One of the major commandments, summed up in the teachings of Christ is to love one’s neighbours as oneself. Indeed, Christ himself is the truest symbol of love for laying down his life for the sake of others. If love of others is a precondition for social peace, then Christianity should be considered a foremost promoter of social peace.

‘

The Islamic faith is based on the teachings of Prophet Muhammed (PBUH). Like other major religions, Islam preaches peace and the social obligations of believers derive from and reinforce their religious duties. They are enjoined to maintain peace and love their fellow human beings. Leaders are instructed to be righteous and it is the religious duty of believers to take care of the poor and wretched.

Traditional African religions of all shades cannot be ignored in the context of our society. Dwindling in numbers, they are still in reckoning in communities across the nation. And it cannot be overemphasised that these religions are integral to the communal foundations of traditional African societies with emphasis on the community and its well-being. In a sense, then,

HARDBALL

they have a mission to preserve and promote the peace of the community. More than the two Abrahamic faiths, traditional religions demonstrate a capacity to enforce their injunctions regarding the promotion of social peace.

Given the position of each of these religions on the important issue of peaceful coexistence, while would anyone suggest that religious pluralism is antithetical to the promotion of social peace? The answer is that it is not just the injunction of each religion in the matter of peace that counts, the tragedy of our time is the fact of the politicisation of religion. The messages of Christ and Prophet Muhammed (PBUH) have been politicised beyond reason. In the service of self-interest, later day prophets have turned these messages on their heads and have sown seeds of hatred and war. In the circumstance, it is naïve to expect that adherents who listen to the messages churned out by religious leaders today are going to be moved to promote peace among people of different faiths.

This history of Christianity and Islam cannot be complete without reference to the crusaders and jihadists and the ensuing intolerance in their wake. These are motivated by the proselytising injunction fundamental to each religion. Yet, both Prophets Muhammed and Christ could not have intended their injunctions to evangelise to result in conflict and violence. You could evangelise and preach the gospel without instigating violence. There is religious violence and conflict because the various devotees are intolerant of the views of rivals.

Religious intolerance is deep and troubling and it can be explained in terms of the distorted understanding of devotees concerning their roles in spreading the good news of their faiths. On the part of leaders, there appears to be an instrumental conception of religion in terms of the material gain it affords. The more the adherents, the greater the good things of earthly existence and religion have been turned into an irresistible source of wealth and primitive accumulation by many religious leaders.

If religion is to contribute to the promotion of social peace and refrain from being an instrument of conflict and violence, religious leaders must come to terms with their social responsibilities and enjoin their followers to be tolerant of other people’s religious beliefs. In the final analysis, the social enterprise is more important because it makes the religious structures thrive. If the nation is in turmoil, the practice of religion is in grave danger. Happy Sallah!

•For comments, send SMS to 08057634061

•Hardball is not the opinion of the columnist featured above

Rethinking Anambra’s demolition strategy

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Don’t forget...HEAVEN HELPS THOSE WHO HELP THEMSELVES

STEVE OSUJI

VOL.7 NO.2290

COMMENT & D E

RIPPLES NIGERIA NEEDS HELP FROM ABOVE CLERIC

TODAY IN THE NATION ‘Laws should not distabilise, frustrate and damage people. What callousness informed the crushing of the property, the basic livelihood of the lowliest class? What manner of law permits us to confiscate and crush other people’s property? ’

NAMBRA State Governor Peter Obi is right to view the menace of kidnapping as a serious affront to our civilisation and humanity. Reports indeed indicate that Anambra is one of the states seriously threatened by the activities of kidnappers. This may be why on Wednesday the governor led a team of policemen to demolish two buildings belonging to a suspected kidnap kingpin, Emeka Ezekude, in Uli, Ihiala Local Government Area.

Ezekude’s buildings were not the first to come under the sledgehammer. Earlier, two other kidnap suspects, Olisa Ifedike, aka Ofeakwu, and Okechukwu Amasiatu, aka Okey Nnewi, had had their buildings acquired by the state government and pulled down. Obi describes the exercise as government’s policy to ruthlessly tackle the menace of kidnapping, a crime that nearly brought business activities and social life to a halt in the state and in nearby Abia State with the exploits of one Obioma Nwankwo, aka Osisikankwu. It is not a surprise that Obi’s policy has received huge support from the state and beyond.

However, though the kidnap kingpins are described as suspects, and though the law

empowering the government to acquire kidnappers’ assets and destroy them were passed a few months ago, no one seems to remember how the prosecution of the suspects has fared. It is important that in spite of the gravity of the crime of kidnapping, there must still be considerable openness in the trial of the suspects. And it does not matter whether, like Ezekude, the suspects were caught in flagrant delicto. The law against kidnapping not only empowers the government to acquire and destroy properties of kidnap suspects, it also provides for the death penalty. The governor on Wednesday reminded the public that he intended to implement the law to the letter. This, therefore, imposes the obligation on him to diligently prosecute the suspects before any punishment is carried out, whether the punishment involves the death penalty or the acquisition and destruction of properties.

Neither Anambra nor any other state afflicted by the curse of kidnapping – and it is a cancer spreading rapidly all over the country – must surrender to hysteria or extra-judicial tactics. Even if the law against kidnapping is draconian, its provisions must still be openly and scrupulously adhered to. The

government and people of the states implementing such tough laws must also not mind however slow the processes of delivering justice on kidnapping are. It is sometimes that slowness and painstakingness that define us civilised human beings. It is hoped that the rule of law would be always fully respected before Anambra State government decides to acquire and destroy kidnap suspects’ properties.

Though the law against kidnapping was passed a few months back and is already being implemented, it would seem wasteful that after acquiring the properties of kidnap suspects, they are then pulled down.

Could the buildings not be turned over to orphanages or even be refitted to serve as police posts and units of state agencies and departments? The earnestness with which Anambra State fights kidnapping is commendable, and even enviable, but it has an obligation to ensure that the law is neither subverted nor compromised for any reason.

Something noble must set the ways of the state apart from the ignoble tactics of the kidnappers; and that something must be related to the style and principles that ennoble our humanity.

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Editor Daily:01-8962807, Marketing: 01-8155547 . Abuja Office: Plot 5, Nanka Close AMAC Commercial Complex, Wuse Zone 3, Abuja. Tel: 07028105302. Port Harcourt Office: 12/14, Njemanze Street, Mile 1, Diobu, PH. 08023595790. WEBSITE: www.thenationonlineng.net E-mail: info@thenationonlineng.net Editor: GBENGA OMOTOSO