The Nation Sep 3, 2013

Nigeria’s widest circulating newspaper

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News Doctors give 21-day strike notice P5 Sports Osaze joins Cardiff for N633m P24 Business UBA appoints executives P11 www.thenationonlineng.net

VOL. 8, NO. 2595 TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2013

TR UTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM TRUTH

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•PRESIDENT MOURNS AS SON RECOUNTS HOW PETER OBE DIED P5

Angry PDP governors to Jonathan: forget 2015 •SEE ALSO PAGES 2&3

Peace talks resume today Atiku/Governors faction asks court to stop Tukur

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HE civil war in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is likely to escalate, with aggrieved governors giving four conditions for peace.

They tabled the conditions at a meeting on Sunday night with President Goodluck Jonathan, 16 governors, and the Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of a faction of the party, Chief Tony Anenih.

From Yusuf Alli, Abuja

The conditions are that: •factional National Chairman Bamanga Tukur should be sacked; •President Jonathan should do one term only and forget re-election in 2015; •the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) and Rivers State crises should be resolved; and •”harassment” of governors by the Economic and Fi-

WHO SAID WHAT AT THE VILLA MEETING All the problems analysed are within human capacity...

Those within my powers, I will address them personally and...

—Jonathan nancial Crimes Commission (EFCC) should be stopped.

Attempts were made to narrow the conditions to two but no progress was made, The Nation learnt.

The two factions only succeeded in setting agenda for resumption of talks today.

But the National Secretary of the Atiku-Governors faction of the PDP, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, said yesterday that despite the inter-

I do not see anything bad in EFCC investigation. My sister, who was on a medical trip, was sent back from Germany...

—Akpabio

Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido’s son was prosecuted when it was obvious that the victim was on a medical trip to Egypt —Kwankwaso

THE FOUR CONDITIONS •Chairman Bamanga Tukur must go •Jonathan should forget 2015 election •NGF, Rivers crises must be resolved •EFCC harassment of governors must stop vention by Jonathan, ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo and other party leaders, members of the New PDP would not abandon their struggle.

Oyinlola, who issued a statement in Abuja, said the faction would not disappoint members in the mission to make the PDP work again in

the interest of Nigeria and its people.

Sources said that Sunday’s meeting was a noholds-barred type, with Jonathan feeling overwhelmed.

It was gathered that the seven governors, who were represented by four of their colleagues, complained lack of internal democracy in the party and “represContinued on page 4

Nine lawmakers pass motion against Suntai

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From Fanen Ihyongo, Jalingo

ARABA State’s race to anarchy gathered more speed yesterday.

The House of Assembly passed a resolution empowering Deputy Governor Garba Umar to continue as acting governor.

It said its decision was an adoption of its executive session of August 29, which mandated the acting governor to continue running the state.

Only nine of the 24 members of the House attended the “special plenary”.

Sixteen members of the House last week rejected the letter transmitted by Governor Danbaba Suntai, saying the acting governor should remain in charge.

Deputy Speaker Tanko Maikarfi, who presided over the session, said it was convened to adopt the last executive session.

But he did not explain the absence of the other members of the G16. Speaker Haruna Tsogwa was away in Abuja.

After reading a copy of the resolution, Deputy Umar (PDPgovernor is Aminu Jalingo II) moved a motion for its adoppower It was seconded thirsty, says tion.

by Mr Mohammed Gayam (PDP-GashaSenator ka).

•Page 4

Continued on page 4

•A MAR CH FOR JUSTICE: Members of the All Progressives Party (APC) marching on the office of the Kwara State Independent Electoral Commission MARCH (KWASIEC) in Ilorin to demand immediate release of Saturday’s Offa Local Government poll rerun results...yesterday ST OR Y ON P AGE 53 STOR ORY PA

Protests rock Kwara over Offa poll

•PROPERTY P17 •SPORTS P23 •POLITICS P43 •HEALTH P45 •ENERGY P47

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2013

2

NEWS CRISIS IN PDP Vice-President Namadi Sambo being received by the Group Managing Director, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Andrew Yakubu, during the Stakeholders Forum on the Protection of Critical National Assets and Infrastructure at the International Conference Centre in Abuja...yesterday.

With them is the Minister of State for Defence Erelu Olusola Obada.

PHOTO AKIN OLADOKUN.

•Governor Babatunde Fashola (second left), former Minister for Administrative Development in Egypt Dr Ahmed Darwish Bio (left), Director, Emerging Regions, Public Sector, Middle East & Africa Headquarters of Microsoft Mr. Yasser Elabd (third left)and Commissioner for Science and Technology Mr. Adebiyi Mabadeje. Back row: (From left) Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure Dr Obafemi Hamzat, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Science andTechnology Mrs Nike Animashuan and the Secretary to the State Government Mrs Oluranti Adebule when the governor received Bio and Elabd at the Lagos House, Ikeja.

Presidency, A

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HE Presidency and former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar yesterday traded words over the outcome of the mini convention of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The Special Adviser to the President on Political Affairs, Ahmed Gulak, said Atiku was indebted to the PDP and should not spearhead its fictionalisation.

Atiku said he would not dispute Gulak’s claim, adding that the best way to continue to pay the debt was to protect PDP. He said: “That is exactly what I’m doing: Protecting the PDP.” Atiku and seven aggrieved governors walked out of the Eagles Square venue of the 2013 Special National Convention on Saturday to form a parallel exco for the PDP. Speaking with State House correspondents in Abuja yesterday, Gulak said Atiku should be grateful to the party for reabsorbing him and giving him waiver to contest the presidential primary election in 2011.

According to him, Atiku is expected to protect the party at all times.

He said: “I was surprised because Atiku is supposed to know more than another person that there is no party like PDP. He left PDP and went to ACN and he came back to PDP, because he discovered that outside PDP there is no party.

“So, he had to come back and he was even given a waiver to contest the primaries in 2011. Atiku should be grateful to PDP. Atiku is indebted to PDP and the best way to continue to pay the debt is to protect PDP.” Speaking on the meeting at the Presidential Villa to resolve the crisis, he said: “The president is the leader of the party and the governors came and the president and other leaders had useful discussions with

•Atiku From Augustine Ehikioya, Abuja

them and God willing these things will be things of the past.

“That is why I said politics is about interests and whatever somebody says, it is how his interest can be protected and they have put on the table what they want, or put on the table what it should be and the leader has carefully listened and analysed it and we keep on talking.”

On whether the governors insisted

ACF: split shows PDP can’t deliver on promises

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Tony Akowe, Kaduna

HE Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) yesterday said the split in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) showed its inability to deliver on its promises to the people.

ACF spokesman, Anthony Sani, in a text message to The Nation, said: “The split of PDP, which took place last Saturday, has been a source of concern in the sense that if the ruling party cannot provide order and direction to itself, many Nigerians would doubt the ruling party’s capacity to deliver on the promise of democracy.

“You would note that the mandate to rule Nigeria includes not presiding over a divided people but is about bringing Nigerians together to enable them confront our collective challenges for public good.

“Where the party shows its divisive tendencies openly, it becomes a source of concern. We pray the leaders would brace up and confront the current challenges before the politics of 2015 overwhelm them.”

•Outgoing Prelate of the Methodist Church of Nigeria Most Reverend Sunday Ola-Makinde, Prelate-elect Most Reverend Samuel Uche and Lay President of the First Emergency Conference Sir Jimmy Nathaniel Coker at a news conference to introduce the Prelate-elect at the William Methodist Church of Nigeria, Ebute-Metta, Lagos...yesterday.

PHOTOS: ADEJO DAVID.

• From left: Secretary-General, Medical and Dental Consultations' Association of Nigeria Dr Aderemi Adeosun; President, Dr Olusegun Oluwole and immediate past President Prof. Amos Gazama at a news conference on the 2013 post-biennial delegates meeting in Ibadan...yesterday.

PHOTO: NAN

No room for parallel PDP in Kwara, says Ahmed

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From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

WARA State Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed yesterday warned those he described as dissidents not to waste their time planning a parallel Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) structure.

Such an attempt, he said, would not succeed as the state’s PDP electionwinning machinery was intact.

He said: “For those few dissidents who think that they want to come and start running parallel structure here, they are wasting their time because we are a formidable force.”

Ahmed spoke with reporters at the Ilorin International Airport on his arrival from Abuja.

The governor, who was received by his commissioners, political office holders and PDP supporters, said:”As you are aware of the goings on, consultation has started with the Presidency and it is still ongoing. Hopefully, another round of consultation would be arranged where we hope the issues that have been raised would be thrashed out.

“Don’t forget that we had to go to the Presidency as a mark of respect for the president to deliberate on the issues, which we have highlighted and to let you know that things are still ongoing and hopefully we would get you informed as soon as the final outcome is made available.

“But the most important thing we should know is that a few dissidents might feel that this is an opportunity for them to begin to raise disharmony in the PDP system in Kwara.

“Let it be clear as crystal, we in Kwara State have an election-winning machinery and that machinery has been trusted, tested and it is still available.

So, we should get to know that.”

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2013

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NEWS CRISIS IN PDP

Atiku trade words over PDP split

•Amaechi

•Tukur

on the removal of PDP chairman, Bamanga Tukur, he said: “You cannot remove the national chairman like that. He was elected and you will remember that of all the offices, INEC observed that only the position of the national chairman and the financial secretary was properly done and that is why we had gone to the special national convention to properly elect the other officers.

“There are processes; there are provisions of the constitution; there

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is the Electoral Act, we should not act outside the laws. We must act within the extant laws of the land.

Because the PDP is a law abiding party, we must entrench internal democracy. You cannot come and say, remove Mr A or Mr B and you cannot say, for example, remove Governor A. There are processes of removal. The constitution is clear about it.

“And I want to plead with all PDP leaders and members, especially the

•Kawu Baraje

senior stakeholders, to continue dialoguing. You don’t win war at the battle front, you win war on the table. We want to plead with all members of this political party to keep on dialoguing, discussing, because the opposition out there wants the party to split and there are moles and they sent moles in the cloak of PDP. We have discovered them and Insha Allah, all PDP stakeholders, especially our field commanders who are the governors, have discov-

•Gulak

ered this and we are talking.”

He continued: “It is all politics and politics is about interest and we are harmonising. We are talking, we are dialoguing, because the PDP as a family will not allow any of its members to go away, and even the members that want to go away, we will make bold to tell them that out there, there is no party as good as PDP. “So, it is a matter of dialogue. It is a matter of discussion and God will-

ing these problems will be surmounted. It can never be the end of PDP. PDP has been there from 1998, it is only PDP that has still maintained its name and identity. The other people you are talking about, started as AD, transformed to AC, transformed to ACN; you know they have lost their identity. It is only PDP that has consistently maintained its identity and its name. So there is no party that can beat PDP.”

PDP’ll be history soon, says Akume

ENATE Minority Leader George Akume has said the breakup of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is a signal to its imminent collapse.

He said the party’s crisis was a repercussion of abandoning the principles on which it was built.

Akume spoke with reporters yesterday in Makurdi, the Benue State capital.

He said Nigerians should no longer waste time on the PDP, because the party would soon be buried and forgotten.

Akume said he was one of those who nourished and nurtured the PDP to stand, adding that he had to leave when he discovered that the party was being run by unpatriotic, insincere and excessively greedy people who were not ready to change for better.

He said: “Some of us who were there at the beginning and knew how this party was formed saw a great disaster waiting for it. We left for good and aligned ourselves now with people who have the interest of the nation at heart. I tell you, PDP will fall and never stand again.

“APC has come to stay and ours is a party of and for the people. It is going to be a general movement, for the youths, the women, the old and all that. We will move and continue to move until Nigerians decide on who they want to rule them. We will be there in 2015 and all the wrongs will be corrected.”

Kaduna-based civil rights activ-

•Team up with APC, Sani urges breakaway faction

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Southwest PDP roots for Tukur

HE leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the Southwest yesterday passed a vote of confidence in President Goodluck Jonathan; its National Chairman, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur and the National Working Committee (NWC).

The Zonal Caretaker Committee, the State Chairmen Forum, the Elders Committee, the Stakeholders Forum, the Organisation and Mobilisation Committee, the Women and Youth fora said Tukur’s leadership was good for the party.

In a statement by the Acting Chairman of the Caretaker Committee, Adedeji Doherty, the leaders expressed satisfaction with the leadership of Jonathan and Tukur.

They urged the duo to continue the good and commendable leadership that they had given the Federal Government and the party.

The leaders regretted the action of some governors, particularly at this period when all hands should be on deck to rebuild the party.

While urging the aggrieved governors to retrace their steps and embrace dialogue, they praised former President Olusegun Obasanjo for the prompt action he took From Uja Emmanuel, Makurdi and Tony Akowe, Kaduna

ist Mallam Shehu Sani urged the breakaway faction to negotiate with the All Progressives Congress (APC) on a merger deal.

Sani said the break-up of the PDP was long overdue and a welcome

by calling for the intervention of the elders to resolve the issues.

“It is hoped that the elders will respond positively to this clarion call and resolve the issues promptly,” leaders said.

They urged all members of the party across the country in general and the Southwest in particular to remain loyal to the party and give support to the Federal Government and the party officials so that the opposition does not use this “family feud to disorganise our great party and government”.

The leaders reiterated the earlier South West endorsement of Jonathan for a second term since he is legally qualified to contest.

They noted that the second term would afford him the opportunity to complete his Transformation Agenda and other reforms.

The urged the party leaders and members to eschew bitterness and create a peaceful atmosphere within the party so that we can prepare, fight and win the governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun states in 2014.

development, adding that the development exposes the inherent rancour, confusion and disorder in the party.

Sani’s statement reads: “The break-up of the PDP is a welcome development. It exposes the inherent rancour, confusion and disorder that pervade the ruling party.

“The breakup will automatically ventilate the political atmosphere that had been polluted by years of chicanery, shenanigan and a catalogue of fraud. The break-up of the PDP will dissolve the shackles and manacles that impede the socioeconomic and political progress of the Nigerian state.

“The demise of the PDP is long overdue and its split is long expected. The PDP is a rallying point for people allergic to clean politics and politics of principle. It is a shade for self-serving men and women and carrier bread and butter politicians.

The PDP is a breeding ground for cancerous politics of self-interest, cronyism and parasitism.

“The implosion of the PDP will give birth to a new politics of purpose, vision and collective democratic advancement. The split will herald a new political dawn to end the famine of leadership and the drought of governance that has become of our bewildered polity.

“For fifteen years, the ruling PDP has ruined our great country by unleashing a succession of thieving and inept government, bankrupt of ideas.

The PDP is a menace and monstrous evil whose death will bring prosperity and glory to our fatherland. The PDP has criminalised the democratic process and turned government into a crime scene.

“The new PDP faction is made up of men of conscience and their resistance and objection to the dictatorial tendencies of Jonathan/ Bamanga confraternity is commendable. I wish to advise the new PDP to immediately enter into dialogue with the APC with the aim of exploring the possibility of merger.

“For fifteen years the ruling party has unleashed deaths, untold hardships and poverty on Nigerians, it is time for it to die as a price for its toxic and lethargic legacies.”

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THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2013

NEWS Police declare Amaechi’s ADC a deserter

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•Participants in the Lagos Empowerment and Resource Network Students (L.E.A.R.N) at a Skill Acquisition Training Class as part of the ongoing Free Summer School Programme for Children organised by L.E.A.R.N, the non-profit organisation of the wife of Lagos State Governor, Dame Abimbola Fashola.

Taraba deputy governor is power-thirsty, says Senator

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HAIRMAN, Senate Committee on Agriculture, Senator Emmanuel Bwacha, yesterday accused Taraba State Deputy Governor Garba Umar of plotting to be governor.

Bwacha (PDP, Taraba South) also described as “ridiculous” the position of some National Assembly members from the state who backed the House of Assembly’s stand that Umar should continue to act as governor.

Bwacha, who spoke in Abuja, said due to desperation to assert himself, the deputy governor had been going round “poisoning the minds of our Muslim brothers” that Taraba people do not want a Muslim to be governor.

He said Umar had forgotten so soon how Governor Danbaba Suntai “picked him from nowhere and made him his deputy”.

He noted that “if Suntai had liked at the time, he would have brought a Christian to be his deputy and heavens wouldn’t have fallen because it wasn’t an election.”

Nine lawmakers pass motion against Suntai Continued from page 1

The deputy speaker called for a voice vote and the members unanimously voted in favour of the resolution.

Maikarfi then directed the Clerk of the House to communicate the resolution to the acting governor.

Deputy Clerk Mr Mellah Ongu said nine of the 24 member-legislature had formed a quorum.

But the eight members who backed Suntai last week stood their ground - that Suntai transmitted a letter and had resumed work.

Mark Useni (Takum II) said what the nine members did was not a plenary but a “town hall meeting”.

He said the legislative calendar closed last Wednesday. The calendar was adopted by a twothirds majority of the members.

Said Usein: “We were supposed to have closed last Wednesday and be in recess; only that the Speaker ran away.

“As far as legislative business is concerned, what was done in the House today (yesterday) is a useless business.

“We don’t adopt announcements in the House.

The business of the legislature is done through resolutions and law making –by motions and deFrom Onyedi Ojiabor, Abuja

Bwacha said: “This man did not run election with him (Suntai), he just brought him, sent his name to the House of Assembly

bates and not as they did today (yesterday) when the members read from a press statement.

“In the House, we move motions, adopt them and deliberate on the instruments before us.

“What the nine members did yesterday was not plenary but more of a town hall meeting”.

Useni noted that it would still be illegal and unconstitutional even if all the House members hold plenary to stop Suntai from resuming work.

“We (the eight members) insist on constitutional compliance. Governor Danbaba Suntai returned and transmitted a letter. He has resumed work,” he said.

Also yesterday, the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) said it was prepared to inaugurate a board to investigate Suntai’s fitness.

NMA President Dr. Osahon Enabulele, said the association was willing to offer its support. He advised concerned parties to adhere to the provisions of the constitution.

“The NMA is very prepared to make available its expert members who are professionals in various fields of medicine to constitute a medical board to resolve the lingering question of the medical fitness of the governor and any other public or political office holder,” the communiqué of the NMA conference, signed by Secretary General, Dr. Akpufuoma Pemu, said.

and he was confirmed.”

He said Umar is also busy visiting traditional rulers in the North.

In his view, the way out of the crisis is for Umar to re-

vert back to deputy governor.

Bwacha said: “The way out of the situation, except if the deputy governor has Continued on page 60

•Govt: action a mischief

HE Aide-de-Camp (ADC) to Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, Debeware Semeikumo, an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), was yesterday declared a deserter by Rivers police.

Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Mbu Joseph Mbu also removed Semeikumo as the ADC to the governor.

The Rivers State Government described the police’s action as “another mischief”.

Commissioner for Imformation Semenitari said Rivers police was aware that Semeikumo sustained injuries and had been away for further medical treatment.

Mbu spoke in Port Harcourt through the Assistant Commissioner of Police

sion” by the Presidency.

“The governors demanded the removal of the factional National Chairman of PDP, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur to have genuine reconciliation in the party, a source said, adding: “They also asked the President to stick to the agreement he purportedly had with party leaders to spend one term in office. They urged Jonathan to come out openly on his rumoured reelection bid in 2015.

They listed the crises in the NGF and Rivers State and promotion of parallel party structure in some PDP states as their grouses.

Another source at the session said Kwankwaso spoke first, complaining against the use of EFCC by the Presidency to witch-hunt governors who have mere political disagreements with the President.

Said the source: “Kwankwaso cited the arrest and prosecution of a son of the Governor of Jigawa State, Alhaji Sule Lamido, by the

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Port Harcourt

(ACP, Administration), Augustine Sanomi.

The Rivers police commissioner said the ADC was declared a deserter, following his alleged failure to honour all lawful directives to see him and the Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Abubakar, since July 10.

Mbu said: “The decision to declare Semeikumo a deserter followed Section 398 (1) of the Police Act and the Regulation Cap 359 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 1990.

“The whereabouts of Semeikumo remain unknown to the police. IGP Abubakar has approved his declaration Continued on page 60

PDP crisis: Atiku’s faction asks court to restrain Tukur, others from office

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HE Atiku-Governors faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) yesterday asked a High Court of Lagos State, Ikeja Division, to stop the factional National Chairman of the party, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur and other National Working Committee members from parading themselves as officers of the party.

According to a statement in Abuja by the National Secretary of Atiku’s faction, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, the matter was filed before Justice Ganiyu Safari.

The statement said: “Determined to effect a change and stem the slide of the People’s Democratic Party, the Executive of the Peoples Democratic Party, led by Alhaji Abdullahi Kawu Baraje, brought a case at the High Court of Lagos State, Ikeja Division before Justice Safari.

“The Plaintiffs- Alhaji Abdullahi Kawu Baraje, Dr. Sam Sam Jaja, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola and the PDP- are asking it to restrain Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, Prince Uche Secondus, Mrs. Kema Chikwe, Olisah Metuh and others from parading themselves as

Angry PDP governors to Jonathan: forget 2015

Continued from page 1

From Bisi Olaniyi,

From Yusuf Alli, Abuja

the members of the National Executive of Committee the Peoples Democratic Party.

“They also sought a motion ex-parte order asking for leave to serve the defendants outside jurisdiction - Bamanga Tukur purported chairman, Uche Secondus, purported Deputy Chairman, Kema Chikwe, purported Woman Leader and Olisah Metuh purported Publicity Secretary, (the defendants) “In its ruling, the court granted the plaintiffs leave to serve the defendants in their various locations “But with regards to the matter of their illegality as members of the National Executive Committee of the party, the court said there is no urgency as to the fact of who should hold what office and now directed that the status quo should be maintained while asking all parties to come back on Monday September 9 to argue the motion on notice.

“What this means is that in the meantime, both executive committees are to remain until the court resolves the matter.”

Talks to resolve PDP crisis deadlocked

HE meeting between President Goodluck Jonathan and 16 governors of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at the Presidential Villa on Sunday night towards resolving the crisis in the party was inconclusive.

Seven governors, including Sule Lamido (Jigawa), Rabiu Kwankwaso (Kano), Abdulafatah Ahmed (Kwara), Babangida Aliyu (Niger), Aliyu Wammako (Sokoto), and Murtala Nyako (Adamawa), quit the venue of the 2013 Special National Convention of the party on Saturday with former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar to form a parallel exco for the ‘new PDP’.

They announced the sacking of the Bamanga Tukur-led exco and formed a new one, with Kawu Baraje as National Chairman, Olagunsoye Oyinlola as National Secretary and Dr. Sam Jaja as Deputy National Chairman of the new PDP.

EFCC. He insisted that the prosecution of Lamido’s son was triggered by the Presidency when it was obvious that the victim was on a medical trip to Egypt.

“Kwara State Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed, whose brother was recently grilled

From Augustine Ehikioya, Abuja

Reading the Communiqué of the meeting in the early hours of yesterday, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the party, Chief Tony Anenih, said discussions at the meeting were smooth and encouraging.

Anenih, who was flanked by President Jonathan and Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso said all the other aggrieved governors would attend another meeting scheduled for today.

Of the seven governors who left the convention to form a parallel party, only four were at the Sunday meeting. They are: Babangida Aliyu (Niger), Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso (Kano), Murtala Nyako (Adamawa) and Abdulfatah Ahmed (Kwara).

The 12 other governors who attended the Sunday meeting included Isa Yugu-

by one of the anti-graft agencies over alleged N60million contract, was quoted as saying ‘I have been facing EFCC probe because I served in the executive of Senator Bukola Saraki. There is an atmosphere of fear in Kwara over activities of the EFCC’.

da (Bauchi), Idris Wada (Kogi), Liyel Imoke (Cross River), Godswill Akpabio (Akwa Ibom), Emmanuel Uduaghan (Delta), Ibrahim Shema (Katsina), Mukhtar Ramallan Yero (Kaduna), Garba Umar (Taraba Acting Governor), Saidu Dakingari (Kebbi), Theodore Orji (Abia), Ibrahim Dankwambo (Gombe), and Jonah Jang (Plateau).

Anenih said: “This evening, Mr. President, the leadership of the party and the PDP governors met to discuss the incident that occurred during the PDP special convention on the 31st of August 2013, whereby some state delegations walked out of the convention ground to announce a faction of the party.

“The meeting was smooth and encouraging and the discussions will continue on Tuesday with all the aggrieved governors in attendance,” he stated.

Governors Jonah Jang, Godswill Akpabio, and Gabriel Suswam reportedly pleaded for understanding.

Jang was said to have attributed the challenges being faced by the party to what he called “deception”.

The source quoted Jang as

saying: “People should not be using deception in politics. The same people who said I should go and contest for the NGF chairmanship as a consensus candidate later moved against me. As adults, we should not engage in politics of deception.

•Jonathan

“On EFCC investigation, this should not be an issue because it applies to everyone. For three years, I was Continued on page 60

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THE NATION TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 3, 2013

NEWS

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Nasarawa: How 50 people were killed, 1,431 houses burnt, by lawmaker

MEMBER representing Kokona West in the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, Danlandi Jatau, yesterday relived how mercenaries allegedly killed over 50 people in his constituency.

Jatau spoke at the resumed sitting of the Judicial Commission of Enquiry probing the killing of security personnel in Lakyo village, in the state.

The Justice Joseph Fola Gbadeyan-led panel had adjourned for a week because of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) conference in Calabar, the Cross River State capital, last week.

Although Jatau’s memorandum earlier came up for hearing, it was adjourned twice following applications by his counsel, Ovye Ezekiel Yakubu.

The lawyer told the panel that Jatau could not attend the sittings because he was indisposed.

The commission turned down the lawyer’s request that the lawmaker’s submission before the panel should be taken as having been read.

Some Eggon communities and their counsel had withdrawn from the sittings of the commission, alleging irregu-

From Sanni Onogu, Lafia

larities in the conduct of its proceedings.

The affected communities also said they were no longer certain of justice at the end of the day.

Jatau is from Eggon.

Although Jatau did not appear before the commission yesterday - on health grounds - according to his counsel, Justice Gbedeyan allowed him to read his submission to the panel.

The chairman said it was necessary for Jatau to appear before the panel to answer pertinent questions emanating from his submission.

He mandated his counsel to present a medical certificate of his illness to the panel, so that the panel could visit the hospital to crosscheck the lawmaker’s claim.

Reading the lawmaker’s presentation, Yakubu relived how mercenaries killed over 50 people in Eggon.

He also accused the mercenaries of burning 1,431 homes, including the palace of the District Head of Bassa, Joshua Daudu, JP; the palace of Ukai Village Head, Alhaji

NMA gives Fed Govt 21-day ultimatum to fix health care system

‘The report I received said there was a likely reprisal attack by Eggon youths on Angwan Arume, a Fulani herdsmen, if an immediate step was not taken.’

U. Ibrahim; the palace of Yelwa Village Head, Alhaji M. Dauda.

Other property allegedly burnt include eight ECWA churches, an RCM Church, an ERCC Church, a Word of God Church, three tractors and two primary schools, among others.

Jatau also attributed the carnage to the slow response from security agencies during the attacks.

He said: “On December 8, last year, while I was in Lafia (the state capital), I received a call from some people in my constituency, particularly those in Arume, a village in Bassa District.

“The report I received said there was a likely reprisal attack by Eggon youths on Angwan Arume, a Fulani herdsman, if immediate steps were not taken.

“I promptly contacted the youth leaders, elders of the village and the District Head of Bassa. I also set out for the area.

“On my arrival, I discovered the bodies of two Eggon youths, whose names were given as Obgenre Emmanuel and Philibus Avre, who were attacked by some Fulani herdsmen while they were in the farm threshing rice.

“This unfortunate incident occurred when the deceased had a disagreement with the herdsmen who forcefully entered to graze on his rice, as narrated by the survivors of the attack.”

He told the commission that it was the intervention of the police, the District Head and himself that pacified the enraged youths.

The lawmaker said he later held a peace and reconciliation meeting with the aggrieved communities in collaboration with the security

agents, district head as well as traditional and religious leaders.

Jatau added: “While our peace promotion lasted, I received another distress call, just about a week from the previous attacks, that an Eggon woman had been macheted by a herdsman. I quickly intervened in the matter. This time round, it was in Ruman Doma of Sakwato village area (now deserted).

“From that day, the rumour of an impending invasion of some settlements owned by Eggon people in Bassa became the order of the day.

While the rumours lingered, I received more information on January 8 that our Eggon youths had been attacked.

“Two of the youths died on the spot of the attack; two others survived but had severe bullet wounds.

“The incident created room for serious mutual suspicion among the ethnic inhabitants of my constituency and of the possibility of attacking some specified settlements.

“The rumour persisted till February 9, when I got a call that some gunmen had invaded some major settlements in my domain. This led to the sacking of over 15 settlements in Bassa District.”

Aliyu cautions politicians From Jide Orintunsin, Minna

THE Chairman of Northern States’ Governors’ Forum (NSGF) and Niger State Governor Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu yesterday cautioned politicians against overheating the polity.

The governor said politicians need to place national interest above personal or primordial sentiments.

Aliyu spoke in Minna, the state capital, when he presented cheques of N5.74 billion, donated by Federal Government, to victims of the 2011 post-election violence in Niger and eight other states.

The giovernor, who spoke through his deputy governor, Ahmed Musa Ibeto, noted that the survival of the nation should be paramount to leaders.

He said great nations are built by patriotic citizens who dedicate their lives to the development of their countries.

Aliyu said: “Let me call on the political class in this country to exercise utmost caution and high sense of responsibilities in all our actions and utterances.”

•LUTH workers abandon duties over non-payment of salaries

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HE Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) has given the Federal Government a 21-day ultimatum to find solutions to various challenges confronting the nation’s medical sector.

The association also gave the government an ultimatum to pay doctors and other health workers in public hospitals their outstanding salaries because of the irregularities in implementing the centralised Integrated Personnel Payroll Information System (IPPIS).

The ultimatum began yesterday and is expected to run till September 23.

In a communiqué issued yesterday at the end of NMA’s National Council Meeting (NEC), which held from August 25 to September 1 in Abuja, its President, Dr. Osahon Enabulele, said the association was willing to support and advise concerned parties to adhere by the provisions of the constitution.

“NMA is very prepared to make available its members who are professionals in various fields of medicine to constitute a medical board to resolve the lingering question of the medical fitness of the Governor and any other public or political office holder.”

The communiqué, which was also jointly signed by NMA’s Secretary-General, Dr. Akpufuoma Pemu, said there is need to address lapses in the IPPIS to reimburse the three months outstanding salaries.

“Since the beginning of the implementation of IPPIS in federal public hospitals, it has greatly undermined the welfare of doctors, many of whom have had to endure over three months of non-payment of salaries due to gross irregularities in the implementation.

“The NEC, therefore, calls on government to urgently correct the numerous IPPIS irregularities within the next 21 days

From Vincent Ikuomola, Olugbenga Adanikin, Abuja and Oyeyemi Gbenga-Mustapha

with effect from September 2 to September 23 or stop the use of IPPIS as a means of payment of salaries in public hospitals until the irregularities are sorted out with a perfect innocuous system put in place.”

House officers at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) have begun a weeklong work boycott to protest the non-payment of their salaries.

Interns at the Physiotherapy, Radiography, Pharmacy, Dietetics, Medical and Laboratory Science, Dental Technology and others have joined the work boycott.

The protesters said their salaries have been delayed since the beginning of the Integrated Pay Roll and Personnel Information system (IPPIS).

In a letter the house officers sent to the Chief Medical Director (CMD), Prof Akin Osibogun, they said the delay has caused them great economic hardship.

“It has become difficult to feed and be at the workplace with the right frame of mind...

“Upon the expiration of the resolution contained in the letter attached, the house officers can no longer be at the workplace until all accrued salaries and allowances are paid.”

The letter was copied to the Minister of Health, the Accountant-General of the Federation, the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), the President of the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), the LUTH branch of the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) and the Medical and Dental Consultant Association of Nigeria.

• Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Prof Modupe Adelabu (middle) with the Chief Imam of Odo-Oro Ekiti, Alhaji Bello Orisajemifo (left); Alhaji Kareem Fafure; Chairperson of board of Al-Majiri’s School, Alhaja Aisha Badmus (second right) and the Chief Imam of Ikole, Alhaji Dauda Fajembola, after the meeting of stakeholders on the Al-Majiri school in Ado-Ekiti…yesterday

Jonathan mourns Peter Obe •How ace photographer died, by son From Augustine Ehikioya,

Abuja and Ozolua Uhakheme, Assistant Editor (Arts)

•The late Obe

P

RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan yesterday commiserated with the family, friends and associates of ace photo-journalist, Peter Oyeyemi Obe, who died on Sunday in Lagos. He was 81.

The President said the photojournalist would be remembered as a thoroughbred professional who put his skills to the best use in an illustrious career that spanned several decades.

In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Dr. Reuben Abati, the Presi-

dent noted that the history of journalism in Nigeria would not be complete without acknowledging the late Obe’s pioneering role in the development of photojournalism, his lucid documentation of the Nigerian Civil War and other events in the evolution of the nation.

The statement reads: “As they mourn the legendary ace photographer, President Jonathan enjoins his professional successors and other journalists to strive to emulate Peter Obe’s exemplary commitment, dedication and patriotism, which were always apparent throughout his long and highly successful career.

“He prays that God Almighty would receive the late Obe’s gentle soul and grant him eternal rest.”

Femi, the eldest son of the late photojournalist, has narrated how his father died peacefully last Sunday afternoon.

He told The Nation that his

father, who passed on at 81, was hale and hearty until he developed a symptom (sore throat) earlier in the week.

Femi said on Saturday, one of his siblings and a doctor, was contacted to test the ace photographer at his 31 Moronu Maduagwu Street, Surulere, Lagos home.

He said: “On Saturday night, my father went to bed late. So, he did not wake up early in the morning until when his doctor son came to the house around noon to check on him. Unfortunately, he was found in his room gasping for breath. He died just two minutes after.”

Femi said his father’s thriving photography career was stunted by the visual impairment he suffered some years ago. Since then, the son said, Obe could not perform as actively as he used to be.

The late Obe was born in December 28, 1932. He lived a life of photography as his name was synonymous with excellent photography.

Femi described his father as a man who loved his job and took

a lot of risks in doing it.

He said: “In fact, he was passionate about it and took risks where others dreaded. He taught us to be serious with our work. When he was at the war front during the Biafran war, we were very worried each time we heard of the death of people. We only got information about him when soldiers from the Defence headquarters visited us.”

On his father’s most memorable assignment Femi said: “It was the news of the Cocoa House in Ibadan being gutted by fire. In company of my younger brother and myself, my father left Lagos for Ibadan by 10pm. He took several shots of the Cocoa House that late night when many had gone to bed. He dared the danger and got exclusive shots.”

The young Obe said his family would discuss how to preserve their father’s photo collections and the publications in his studio.

He added that the family would also decide on the date for the ace photographer’s funeral rites.

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2013

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NEWS Navy arrests oil theft suspects

Army officers’ families get N1m compensation

By Precious Igbonwelundu

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By Precious Igbonwelundu

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MOTIONS rose yesterday at the headquarters of 81 Division, Nigerian Army, Lagos, when the families of 12 soldiers, who died in Borno State, gathered to receive some comfort.

A. I. Ushoga, Sgt. Sadiq Ominisi, Olafimihan Akeem, Sabo Mijinyawa, Moses Sylvester, Umar Isa, Michael Ike, Nwanbuwanne Monday, Kabiru Mairiga, Musa Job, Private Ephraim Ebimine and Private Ndah Mohammed were killed by suspected Boko Haram members during a peacekeeping mission in Borno.

The deceased’s wives, children and relatives wept as they were handed N1 million per family.

Deployed from 174 Battalion, Odogunyan, Ikorodu, Lagos to join the Joint Task Force (JTF) operating in Borno State to quell the Boko Haram insurgency, the soldiers were killed by suspected members of the Boko Haram.

Presenting cheques to the deceased’s families on behalf of the Borno State Government, the General Officer Commanding the division, Gen. Obi Umahi, said the money was to alleviate the sufferings of their wives, children and relatives.

He noted that the men died in active service in an operation in the Northeast.

“The cheque is part of the succour given to the families and next of kin of the deceased soldiers by the Borno State governor. This is to cushion the effects on the wives, children and family. Besides, the Nigerian Army has promised to do a number of things, such as funeral and payment of benefits, which have been processed.

• Oyo State Governor Abiola Ajimobi speaking during a condolence visit to the family of the late Mrs. Tejumade Alakija in Ibadan, Oyo State. On the left is Ekiti State Governor Dr. Kayode Fayemi, second left is Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola and Mrs. Toyin Akomolafe, daughter of the late Mrs. Alakija, the first female Head of Service, old Western Region.

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SSANU threatens indefinite strike

HE Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) has said it may embark on an indefinite strike if the Federal Government does not implement the agreement it signed in 2009.

The National Vice-President of the union, Comrade Alfred Jimoh, spoke yesterday at the SSANU congress organised to discuss the hazard and earned allowances as well as other issues.

It was held at the Arts Theatre Hall of the University of Ibadan (UI).

The union leader said: “We have been reading the lips of the government and have been observing their body language. We think what they are intending to do, particularly with respect to the earned allowances, is

GOTEL TV/ Radio gets board, management

not in the interest of our members.”

He said the agreement has been in operation since 2009 and some earned allowances from the agreement have not been implemented.

Jimoh said a struggle is going on with the union in the university system over accrued allowances and other parts of their allowances, stressing that the Federal Government offered something, which does not solve the problem.

He said the Federal Government paid about N30 billion as part of an allowance that had accrued to over N90 million, adding that they have not spoken on how the

continuous implementation of the agreement would be.

Comrade Jimoh said SSANU has been discussing with the government, which has yielded only promises, adding that when the union discovers that the government has failed, it would begin strike.

He noted that SSANU would pressurise the government to ensure that all aspects of the agreement are implemented.

The Chairman of SSANU, UI branch, Comrade Wale Akinrinde, said the congress is determined to hold a peaceful protest from the venue of the congress to the main gate of the university, to sensitise the public to what they experience in the university system.

He added that they were

persuaded by their vicepresident not to begin the protest until they discovered that the government was not yielding.

Akinrinde said: “We do not know why the government is not willing to implement an agreement duly signed between us.”

He went on: “The Federal Government threw peanuts at us as if we are dogs. They allowed the money to pile up and they are not coming up to say when they will pay the rest of the money.”

Comrade Akinrinde said the union is also concerned about the development of infrastructures, laboratories and the training of workers.

He enjoined the unions, workers and patriotic Nigerians to fashion out a way for the survival of the universities.

NDLEA foils hard drug export

By Kelvin Osa Okunbor

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HE GOTEL TV/Radio, founded by former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, has inaugurated a new management team, with veteran journalist and broadcaster, Mr. John Chiahemen, as the managing director/ chief executive officer.

Also, the board of the Yolabased media conglomerate was reconstituted under the chairmanship of Mallam Ahmed Aminu.

Atiku urged the new management to fast track the realisation of GOTEL TV’s vision of becoming the preferred voice in disseminating the Nigerian and African perspective.

Besides Chiahemen, others in the management team are Gary Alfonso (chief operating officer), Anton De Wit (director of Engineering Services/ IT), Garvin Hill (director, Television Services), A.A. Tafida (executive director, Administration and Human Resources) and Mohammed El-Yakubu (director, Radio Services).

The reconstituted board of the company comprises Ahmed Aminu (chairman), Chiahemen (MD/CEO), Tafida, Mazi Paul Ibe, Mr. Yakubu Tsala and Prof. Margee Ensign (president, American University of Nigeria).

Other members are Mr. Abba Tahir, Mr. Siddiki Jauro, Joshua Hassan, an engineer and Abdullahi Nyako and E. O. Ojo as company secretaries.

From Tayo Johnson and Diamond Adebowale, Ibadan

•Ugochukwu

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HE National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has prevented the illegal shipment of liquid methamphetamine to South Africa.

The methamphetamine,

weighing seven kilogrammes, was disguised as a vegetable oil.

Anti-narcotic officials made the discovery at the cargo section of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Ikeja, Lagos during a routine check.

A clearing and forwarding agent, who brought the consignment for shipment through a South African Airline flight, has been arrested by the agency.

NDLEA Airport Commander Mr. Hamza Umar said the discovery was the first seizure of liquid methamphet-

amine.

“This is the first seizure of liquid methamphetamine.

There were six containers in all, but only two were found to be vegetable oil and the remaining four contained liquid methamphetamine. With the assistance of our forensic personnel, we were able to extract the crystallised methamphetamine, which weighed 7kg,” he said.

The suspect, a 31-year-old clearing and forwarding agent, Ugochukwu Okoroji, accepted ownership of the drug in his confessional statement.

“I have been working as a clearing and forwarding

agent since 2008. Since 2003 when I came to Lagos, I have been struggling to make ends meet. I told the NDLEA officers before the examination that the consignment belonged to me. I felt bad when the drug was found and I was apprehended,” Ugochukwu said.

He lives in Lagos with his wife and a four-month-old baby.

Ugochukwu hails from Owerri West Local Government Area of Imo State.

The Chairman/Chief Executive of the agency, Ahmadu Giade, hailed the officers for the discovery.

Obasanjo urges RMAFC to ensure equitable revenue sharing F ORMER President Olusegun Obasanjo yesterday in Abeokuta stressed the need for a fair and equitable revenue sharing formula.

He spoke when members of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) visited him ahead of the proposed review of the revenue sharing formula.

Chief Obasanjo said the sharing of revenue among the three tiers of the government must be proportionate to their responsibilities.

He said items on the exclusive and concurrent lists in the constitution must be quantified to determine how the nation’s resources should be

allocated.

“We must determine how much security, education or health cost and then determine how much should be allocated to each,” he said.

Obasanjo noted that such quantification could be a difficult exercise, but emphasised that it was necessary to avoid a lopsided or a disproportionate revenue sharing formula.

He said such technical exercise might require the services of experts and advised that consultants could be engaged for the purpose.

The ex-president also

stressed the need for the commission not to jettison the fund mobilisation aspect of its responsibility.

He said it was sad that adequate attention had not been paid to fund mobilisation.

“I always want to emphasis the nomenclature of your commission and stress that mobilisation comes before allocation,” he added.

“Please note that it is very important that you do not only concentrate on revenue allocation, but you must also seek to find out what the local governments, states and the Federal Government are do-

ing to mobilise revenue.”

On the issue of local government autonomy, Obasanjo recalled that councils were first allocated funds directly from the centre in 1976 when he was a military head of state.

He said the decision was neither a mistake nor by accident, stressing that that level of government was meant to operate as “governments” in the real sense of the word since councils are the closest to the people.

Chief Obasanjo noted that through the local government reforms of 1976, criteria such as population, space and contiguity were considered for the creation of local governments.

HE Navy has arrested five suspected crude oil thieves, including two Beninoise.

They were alleged to have, at the weekend, siphoned petroleum products from the ruptured Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) pipeline.

The arrest, which was carried out by personnel from the Nigerian Navy ship, NNS BEECROFT, also saw the recovery of 270 jerry cans (50 litres) filled with Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).

The suspects, Juten Seiki and Joseph Logbo (Beninoise) as well as Bababo Oritshebinomi, Victor Sopha and Segun Okimiji were nabbed at Makoko, Lagos and two of their wooden canoes seized.

They claimed that they were not the owners of the product but were only conveying it for a man, who offered to pay N3, 000 each.

Institute okays cashless policy From Frances Ajewole, Abuja

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HE Chartered Institute of Financial and Investment Analysts (CIFIA) has urged the Federal Government to enforce the AntiMoney Laundering Prohibition Act (MLPA) and the new Terrorism (Prevention) Act, to fight corruption through the cashless policy.

The CIFIA President, Mrs. Bibiana Okereafor, said the Federal Government must implement certain laws to enable the nation battle corruption.

She spoke in Abuja at the weekend during the fifth CIFIA induction of new members and educational training.

Mrs. Okereafor said government should sensitise Nigerians concerning the cashless policy in order to adopt the policy.

She added that the benefits of adopting the policy included a reduction in corruption, mass job creation and economic development.

Nigerian killed in Abidjan

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HE death of a Nigerian girl, Queen Ebimaho, has left some Nigerians in Abidjan, living with fear.

Ebimaho was on, August 24, found dead inside her room in a brothel in Ajame, Abidjan.

Eyewitnesses said the body of the girl, who arrived in Abidjan about two months ago, had a series of punctures.

She was said to have been brought into the country by a Nigerian woman.

Nigerians living in Ajame have accused the Consular Officer in the Nigerian Embassy, Mr. Obinna Ogbonna, of treating issues concerning Ebimaho’s death with levity.

Mr. Ogbonna confirmed the death, saying: “She died from injuries, which looked like stabs from a yet-to-be identified persons.

“We took the matter officially to the Ivorian police and we were told that she was stabbed.

“But the girl had no consular card. Our investigations showed that she was just about two months old in the country.”

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2013

CITYBEATS

CITYBEATS LINE: 08023247888

FRSC's medical test for drivers

By Olalekan Ayeni

NO fewer than 200 drivers of heavy-duty vehicles and other road users were tested free-of-charge at the public enlightenment campaign rally organised by the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), Ota in Ogun State, in conjunction with the Shell Nigeria Gas Limited (SNG). It was held at the Ijako Tipper Garage, Ogun State.

The Ota Unit Commander of the commission, Mr Sunday Omafu, said the test was instituted free for the drivers who were ignorant of the state of their health, thus causing accidents on the roads. This is why the commission initiated this free medical test to assist the drivers for sanity on our roads.

He noted that road crashes were caused by factors such as poor mechanism, poor health, lack of maintenance, impatience, fake spares, drunk driving and overspeeding. He warned drivers to exercise caution and be on the alert while driving, adding: "They must imbibe the culture of driving to stay alive in an unsafe environment."

The FRSC boss, urged the Ogun State Government to construct different lanes for motorcycles, tricycles and taxi cabs to stop them from competing with heavy lorries, thus curbing accidents.

The Agbado Unit Commander of FRSC, Mr Babatunde Farinloye, who represented the Sector Commander, said impatient and abuse of road rules and regulations are the highest factors causing chaos on the road.

Mr Victor Eke, who represented the Managing Director, SGN, praised the FRSC and pledged their supports to the command as part of the company's corporate social responsibility.

The chairman, Ajowa Tippers Owners Association, Chief Babatunde Ajayi, also lauded the commission for the programme.

Compronians get new exco

By Bukunmi Ogundare

THE Old Student Association of Comprehensive High School (Compronians), Ayetoro, Ogun State, has installed a new leadership.

A member of the body's electoral committee, Mr Temitope Ajayi, said the new leadership would restore the school's lost glory.

The association's former executive was re-elected except for the post of financial secretary which went to Mr Oladotun Oguntola. Mr Tunde Oladipo is the new chairman. They were sworn in by Tokunbo Fayemi, a lawyer.

Other members are: Vice President, Olamide TeslimBalogun; Gen Secretary Omolola Oshodi, Gen. Sectretary; her assistant, Seyi Adeyanju; Ayo Tailor, treasurer; Azafi OmoluabiOgosi, publicity secretary; Oludotun Oguntola, financial secretary, and Segun Shara, social secretary.

Oladipo assured that his leadership would work tirelessly at reviving and redoubling their alma mater's glory.

F

IVE weeks after 17year-old Jennifer Deborah Onyeche was allegedly found dead at her juice-producing work-place in Lagos, the family yesterday got N500, 000 as compensation.

It followed an agreement between the company, ROTPAT, and the deceased's parents, Mr and Mrs Friday Onyeche, at the Lagos State Government's Public Advice Centre (PAC).

Jennifer died on July 24, at the company's Alapere, Ketu office. She had not got her first monthly salary of N12, 000 as a casual worker.

Following her family's cry for justice after alleged foulplay by the police, PAC intervened in the matter.

Contrary to the claim by the factory's management that Jennifer might have died from electrocution, the report by Dr O.O. Lawal of the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) Pathology Department said her death was caused by asphyxia.

The deceased's family earlier demanded N2 million as compensation, but reconsidered its demand for the sake of the company's owner, Rotimi Akintan.

The deceased's father, Onyeche said the company's director gave the family N150, 000 for Jennifer's burial.

He said: "I know that no amount of money will bring back my daughter. But I insisted I was not happy with the way the people on ground handled the situation. If they were careful, maybe my daughter would not have died. But the director is the only one who acted differently.

"He was out of the country the day my daughter died but he called me that same day. He also came to my house when he returned from his trip. We are pained that she died that way, but we have handed everything over to God for us to move

L

AGOS State Signage and Advertisement Agency (LASAA) has begun its much-anticipated outdoor audience research project. It is aimed at revealing vital statistics about the opportunity to view outdoor advertisements in the state.

The research, The Nation learnt, will produce audience estimates for outdoor advertising, while the data published will tell advertisers the number of viewers of an outdoor advertising campaign in their locations and how often they do so.

The audience, according to LASAA's Managing Director, Mr George Noah, will be categorised on the basis of age, sex, class and lifestyle among others, adding: "The information will help advertisers to plan and evaluate advertising campaigns on the outdoor medium."

He added: "For advertisers to make informed buying decision and data analysis of the target audience is essential. Scientific audience measurement will provide details of Realistic Opportunity to See (ROTS) with eyetracking studies which will gauge the Likelihood To See (LTS) factor of the various types of display. This will also account for scale, orientation, distance, movement, illumination and spa-

7

Dead employee's family gets compensation

By Precious Igbonwelundu

on."

An agreement signed by both parties in the presence of their lawyers stated that the N500, 000 given to the family was to carter for allegations that the deceased was not properly taken care of.

The family also agreed that Jennifer was not murdered by the company, its proxies or agents.

Akintan said: "I feel deep pains that such a thing happened. No one wishes for evil and I know it has been a tough time for the family.

But I want it to be cleared that Jennifer did not die in the factory. She died while she was being rushed to the hospital. She was found by other factory workers shivering beside the labelling

‘I know that no amount of money will bring back my daughter ... we are pained that she died that way, but we have handed everything over to God for us to move on’ machine, where she worked and was promptly rushed to Obas Profile Clinic, which is the closest hospital to the factory.

"From there, she was referred to LASUTH, but when those taking her realised she was stretching, they branched at Fine Day Hos-

pital, but she died before they got there. Since this unfortunate incident happened, my company has been sealed and we have not been working. I want members of the family to know that I will always be with them. I pray that God will comfort them."

• The late Jennifer

• Part of the remains of the buildings burnt in a fire that rendered 45 families homeless last weekend at Amukoko in Lagos ...yesterday PHOTO: AYODELE ISAAC

Lagos advertising agency's initiative berths

By Uyoatta Eshiet

tially analyse the sites in relation to competitors, customer locations and traffic patterns."

"With deep knowledge people’s movements, advertisers can decide what is on their way in terms of communication opportunities.

By defining the audience,

data can be used to plan, trade and compute valuation for the medium," he said, adding: "We must encourage outdoor advertisers to consider more populated

areas like Ikorodu and Alimosho. The LASAA Outdoor Audience Research will reveal the marketing potential of previously ignored areas."

• Scene of LASAA’s advertisement traffic survey on Ozumba Mbadiwe Road, Victoria Island, Lagos

THE NATION TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 3, 2013

8

NEWS Lagos urges auditors to be focused

By Miriam Ekene-Okoro

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HE Lagos State government has urged internal auditors to comply with international standards.

Commissioner for Finance Ayo Gbeleyi spoke at the 11th Internal Auditors’ Conference in Topo, Badagry Local Government, Lagos.

Gbeleyi, who was represented by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Oluseyi Williams, said internal auditors need to operate with the International Public Sector Accounting Standard (IPSAS) for efficiency.

He urged internal auditors not to be timid in performing their responsibilities anywhere they find themselves.

Gbeleyi said: “This conference, with the theme: ‘The role of Internal Auditors in the Implementation of the Lagos State Procurement Bill and International Public Sector Accounting Standard’, could not have come at a better time than this, because it avails us an opportunity to brainstorm and address issues affecting our collective objectives.

“The function of an internal auditor is to aid management and control. You are not supposed to make enemies or compromise standard while doing your job. Let integrity be your watchword.”

•A cross section of the vehicles...yesterday. INSET: Fashola (middle) inaugurating the vehicles while others watch him.

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MTN donates 25 patrol vans to Lagos

ELECOMMUNICATIONS giant MTN Nigeria yesterday donated 25 Hilux patrol vans to the Lagos State government to fight crime.

MTN’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr. Michael Ikpoki presented the vans to Governor Babatunde Fashola at the Lagos House, Alausa.

Some members of the State Executive Council and the Executive Secretary of Lagos State Security Fund (LSSTF), Mr.

By Miriam Ekene-Okoro

Fola Arthur-Worrey, were also present.

Ikpoki said the gesture was part of MTN’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) to support security and development.

He said: “We have been part of the Lagos State Security Trust Fund, we have consistently contributed to it and our donation today is in continuation

of our support for the Security Trust Fund.

“We recognise that development can only be achieved in an atmosphere of peace and I assure the government, on behalf of MTN, that we will continue to support you in that regard.”

Ikpoki said MTN would continue to strengthen its “mutually beneficial” relationship with the state and

2014: It’s an open race, says Fayemi

E

KITI State Governor Kayode Fayemi has said anyone is free to contest next year’s governorship election.

He described the allegation that he brooked no opposition as “absurd”, adding that he had no intention of being the sole candidate for the poll. Fayemi said the election was an open race and anyone was free to join it, including the member representing Ado-Ekiti/ Irepodun-Ifelodun Constituency in the House of Representatives, Mr. Opeyemi Bamidele.

The governor and Bamidele are members of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Fayemi spoke at the weekend during a monthly live broadcast programme, “Meet Your Governor”, on the state’s local stations.

He urged aspirants to present their manifestos to

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From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

the people and let them decide which candidate they want, instead of “whipping up sentiments and causing disaffection to get cheap popularity”.

On the clash between his supporters and Bamidele’s in Iyin-Ekiti, the governor said: “The crisis clearly showed that our youths have become willing tools in the hands of politicians. It showed that the government has a lot to do on youth employment. I am one of the politicians, who believe politics can be done without bitterness.

“Though we have tried by setting up the Volunteer Corps, State Traffic Management Agency (EKSTMA) and the Ekiti State Peace Corps to employ our youths, sadly, some of them are not making use of these opportunities to better their future.”

Fayemi said measures would be taken to prevent “desperate politicians” from fomenting trouble during the election.

He said there was no embargo on employment as is being rumoured, adding that applicants into the state civil service would soon write a test and successful candidates would be interviewed.

The governor urged members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) at the Ekiti State University (EKSU) to approach the tax tribunal, if they had issues with taxation.

He said he had approved EKSU’s N50 million monthly subvention, aside the N100 million released to the university to pursue the accreditation of its Faculty of Medicine and Surgery.

Fayemi said his administration’s legacy

‘I have received several reports of how some of you have been beating people and carting away traders’ wares. Let me emphasise here that YES-O was not set up to wage war on the public. We will not condone thuggery, harassment and extortion’ people and carting away traders’ wares. Let me emphasise here that YES-O was not set up to wage war on the public. We will not condone thuggery, harassment and extortion.”

The governor said a situation where cadets abandon their duty post without cogent reason, only to return at the end of the month to collect their stipend was un-

fair.

Stressing that the meeting was to review, re-evaluate and revalidate the programme, he said henceforth, local government councils would pay the monthly stipend.

Ajimobi said the cadets would be interviewed in their respective councils after the verification of their credentials.

thanked the government for providing a good environment for businesses to thrive.

Fashola said MTN’s investment in security was “a sensible one” and pledged that the government would continue to keep the state safe.

He said LSSF was one of the government’s strategies to tighten security through the provision of equipment for security agencies.

Amosun mourns journalist

O

•Dr. Fayemi

projects, including the Governor’s Lodge on Ayoba Hill, the multi-million naira Civic Centre and the State Pavilion (all in Ado-Ekiti), would be inaugurated before the end of the first quarter of next year.

He said the state has started paying the 16 per cent Teachers’ Peculiar Allowance.

YES-O costs N3.6b annually, says Ajimobi

HE Oyo State Youth Empowerment Scheme (YES-O) gulps N3.6 billion annually.

Governor Abiola Ajimobi spoke at an interactive session with about 20,000 YESO cadets at the Lekan Salami Sports Complex, Adamasingba, Ibadan.

He decried the conduct of some Yes-O cadets, saying he got reports of harassment and extortion about them from the public.

Ajimobi said cadets, who engage in thuggery, harassment and extortion, would be fished out and shown the way out.

He said: “I have received several reports of how some of you have been beating

PHOTO: OMOSEHIN MOSES

He said the meeting would be organised quarterly and urged the cadets to shun acts that could discredit the scheme.

Ajimobi said the government would begin vocational training for the cadets next month to make them self reliant, adding that YESO was a temporary measure to curb unemployment.

He said the injection of fictitious names into the system was responsible for the delay in the payment of their stipend.

On behalf of the cadets, Miss Iyabo Adebisi of the Ministry of Environment thanked the governor for his efforts to empower youths.

GUN State Governor Ibikunle Amosun has described the late Mr. Peter Oyeyemi Obe (81) as an icon of photojournalism in Nigeria.

Amosun said the veteran photographer’s death is “a great loss” to the media.

In a statement yesterday, he described the late Obe as a “master of the art of press photography, who bestrode journalism like a colossus”.

Amosun said: “He was a quintessential photojournalist; a thoroughbred professional. His works have been a source of knowledge and inspiration to many in the profession, right from his eventful days in the Daily Times as chief cameraman.”

The governor urged the new generation of photojournalists to follow in the late Obe’s footsteps by making professionalism their watchword.

He commiserated with the deceased’s family and the media, praying God to grant the late Obe eternal rest.

Ogun checks teachers’ posting

T

HE Ogun State government has started a screening to check the concentration of secondary school teachers in urban areas.

The four-day exercise is holding at the Abeokuta Grammar School, Idi-Aba. The Chairman of the Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM), Ms. Olubukunola Onabanjo, said: “The major objective of this exercise is to address the shortage of teachers in rural areas.”

Urging headteachers to give accurate data on the number of teachers and pupils in their schools, she said the commission would continue to promote the welfare of teachers.

The Chairman of the All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS), Egba Division, Mr. Kinkunmi Adenekan, said the screening would ease the pressure on some teachers, who have been over-burdened due to the non-availability of subject teachers in some schools.

Ekiti audit office gets admin sec

M

R. Michael Afeniforo has been appointed Administrative Secretary of the Central Internal Audit Office for the Ekiti State Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).

Afeniforo succeeds Mrs. Oluwayemisi Owolabi, the pioneer administrative secretary, who became a permanent secretary recently.

Commissioner for Finance Dapo Kolawole said the Central Internal Audit Office for MDAs was established to enhance efficiency, accountability and transparency in government expenditure.

Amapetu loses mum OLORI Rebecca Omowole, mother of the Amapetu of Mahin Kingdom in Ondo State, Oba Lawrence Omowole, is dead.

She died last week at 118 after a brief illness.

Eminent personalities across the Niger Delta have been trooping to the Amapetu’s palace at Ode-Mahin to commiserate with him.

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2013

9

NEWS

T

Unknown gunmen kill 10 in Kaduna

EN people were killed yesterday at Addu in Attakar chiefdom, Kaura Local Government Area of Kaduna State, by unknown gunmen.

Police spokesman Aminu Lawan said some of those suspected to have carried out the attack were being interrogated.

This is the third time the area has been attacked this year.

Residents said a family of four was killed.

A couple was killed but

From Tony Akowe, Kaduna

their children escaped.

It was learnt that the gunmen stormed the village early in the morning while the villagers were still sleeping, shooting indiscriminately and killed their victims with knives and swords.

The National President of the Attakar Students Association, Raphael Soja said: “We have recovered eight bodies and are looking for the remaining two people missing. We

have the bodies of a couple and their two children; another couple whose children escaped, some children and women. Four injured persons have been rushed to the Kafanchan General Hospital.”

In a letter to Governor Mukthar Yero, the Centre for Development and Rights Advocacy (CEDRA) condemned the killings.

It said: “Once again, Addu came under assault by murderers at the wee hours of yesterday. Report reaching us sug-

gests that five suspects have been apprehended by the vigilant people of Bondom in their attempt to escape from their operating theatre (the hills of Attakar).

“The suspects were nabbed in the blood-stained cloths they wore during the operation and were handed over to the police. The car and suspects are now in Kaura Police Division.

“When previous incidents occurred, we petitioned those in charge of protecting life and

property. Yesterday’s attack shows there is a genocide agenda against the people of Southern Kaduna by local and international terror groups.

“Our genocide treatise was not given serious attention. On each incident, the government promises to fish out the perpetrators and punish them. Beyond those superficial tension cooling talks, nothing is done or heard until the next ugly incident is recorded.”

Security operatives have been deployed in the area.

Ekiti Almajiri school takes off

T

THE Morkaz Ibn Junaid Primary School for Almajiris has taken off in EsunEkiti, Ekiti State.

At a meeting with stakeholders in her office in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, Deputy Governor Prof. Modupe Adelabu said the school offers both Islamic and western education.

Mrs. Adelabu, who doubles as the chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), urged residents of the host community to enroll their children in the school.

She said the government was committed to preparing children for a better future.

Chairman of the State Implementation Committee Alhaja Aisha Badmus, who also chairs the Almajiri School Board, said the school has 15 teachers, 61 pupils and eight classrooms, two of which were built by SUBEB. Alhaja Badmus urged the government to assist the school with a bus for the transportation of pupils and regularise the appointments of part-time teachers.

President of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Ekiti chapter, Alhaji Afolabi Ogunlaye, prayed God to continue to guide the Governor Kayode Fayemi administration.

Dentists fault health care From Tayo Johnson, Ibadan

•Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun,acknowledging cheers from residents during his visit to Aiyetoro in Yewa North Local Government... yesterday. With him are some government officials and others.

T

Fed Govt orders evacuation of Nigerians in Syria

HE Federal Government has directed its embassy in Syria to start evacuating Nigerians in the country.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Martin Uhoimoibhi, broke the news yesterday

From Vincent Ikuomola, Abuja

to reporters in Abuja after a training for mid-level Swiss diplomats.

He said the embassy had been directed to ensure a safe

passage for Nigerians in case of any military action by the United States (US) and its allies.

Uhoimoibhi said: “We have asked our embassy to arrange for Nigerians to have a safe passage. In fact, this has been on for years. We do not have many Ni-

T

•35% of power-generating assets vandalised, says minister

P

From John Ofikhenua, Abuja

“It is envisaged that similar crisis centres will be established at the state and local government levels, employing the ICT infrastructure provided by the NSA, who will continue to coordinate the activities of all stakeholders in the security sector.”

On synergy among security agencies, the President said: “Secondly, there is need for heightened cooperation between stakeholders and security agencies to effectively protect our critical national assets and infrastructure.

“For instance, there is need for quicker resolution of court cases and the imposition of stiffer penalties on offenders. We must send a clear message that, henceforth, there is a huge price to pay for the theft of resources, and the destruction of critical infrastructure.”

House of Representatives Speaker Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, who was represented by the Chairman of the House

support military action by the US, he said: “Why ask me the position of the Nigerian military? That is not mine to determine. We are very proud members of the United Nations (UN) and I am sure Nigeria’s action will be determined by the UN.”

Bishop’s wife hails Fashola

Jonathan intensifies fight against vandalism

RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan yesterday called for cooperation between security agencies and private owners of infrastructure to tackle vandalism.

Jonathan, who was represented by Vice-President Namadi Sambo at a two-day stakeholders’ forum on the Protection of Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI) in Abuja, said he would inaugurate a component of the National Crisis Management Centre later in the day.

The forum was organised by the National Security Adviser (NSA) to the President, Mr. Mohammed Dasuki.

Jonathan said the centre would, among other things, drive coordination when dealing with major national incidents.

He said: “Later today, I will inaugurate a component of the National Crisis Management Centre, which will, among other things, facilitate this coordination when dealing with major national incidents.

gerians there any more. The embassy had since relocated a large chunk of its staff and only a very small number is left. This has been on for, at least, two years. So everyone is ready for the situation as it evolves.”

On whether Nigeria will

•Jonathan

Committee on Interior, Mr. Umar Bature, said the House has been advised to pass a law to put the nation’s assets in care of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

Minister of Interior Abba Moro, who expressed confidence in the ability of the NSCDC to tackle vandalism, said more resources should be allocated to the corps.

Power Minister Prof.

Chinedu Nebo said vandalism was a “moral equivalent of war” on the nation. He said over 35 per cent of power-generating infrastructure had been vandalised.

NSCDC boss Dr. Ade Abolurin said the country had lost many security officers to the war against vandalism. He called for the provision of helicopters to monitor national assets.

HE Wife of the Bishop of Diocese of Lagos West of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Mrs. Lydia Odedeji, has hailed Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola’s administration for making Lagos “a place of pride”.

Mrs. Odedeji spoke at the 14th Women’s Guild Annual Conference in Ipaja, on the outskirts of the city.

She said Lagos State has lived up to its name as the centre of excellence. Mrs. Odedeji hailed the government on the construction of the Lagos-Badagry expressway.

On the Carter Bridge, she said: “The bridge was built in 1901 and was rebuilt in 1973. The place was always dark at night and hoodlums robbed people there. On July 1, Fashola switched on the lights of the 6km Carter Bridge, the oldest bridge in Lagos, revealing the beauty of the area at night.”

Mrs. Odedeji described Dep-

On July 1, Fashola switched on the lights of the 6km Carter Bridge, the oldest bridge in Lagos, revealing the beauty of the area at night uty Governor Adejoke OrelopeAdefulire as an achiever, who has done well in the education sector.

She said: “The decision of the government to establish enviable public schools is encouraging and highly commendable.

Many schools have hitherto been reconstructed with a lot of refurbishment. The schools in Lagos State have now imbibed the reading culture.”

Mrs. Odedeji urged Lagosians to cooperate with the government by paying tax and adhering to the state’s rules and regulations.

Police warn vehicle owners

T

HE Lagos State Police Command has given owners of accident and abandoned vehicles parked at the Ijora Badia Division 14 days to remove them.

It said the vehicles would be auctioned at the expiration of the ultimatum.

They are a Toyota Salon car, marked AM492BDG, and a Faragon bus numbered XF905YAB.

T

HE Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCAN) has decried the poor state of health care delivery in the country.

MDCAN National President Dr. Steven Oluwole, spoke yesterday at the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) House in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

He said: “The teaching and specialist hospitals, which are accessed directly by patients rather than through organised referral systems, are congested and do not meet the needs of all patients.

“While infrastructure for primary and secondary level health care exists in many states, no meaningful, if any, services are provided by many.

“There should be no legislation preventing Nigerians from seeking health services abroad. This reversal of health tourism, which drains the economy and occasionally costs lives, should be reversed by the reorganisation of our health services to inspire confidence in it by Nigerians.”

He said MDCAN, would partner the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) and other stakeholders to curb road crashes.

Oluwole said road accidents were a major problem in the country.

He said collaborating with major stakeholders would curtail the menace.

Oluwole said: “We shall organise lectures with the FRSC to sensitive drivers on how to curb road crashes “Our focus would be on over-speeding, use of cell phones while driving, taking of toxic substances before driving and the non-use of seatbelt by motorists.”

He warned motorists against overloading and noncompliance with traffic laws.

10

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2013

BUSINESS

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2013

THE NATION

E-mail:- bussiness@thenationonlineng.net

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

-Dr Joseph Odumodu, DG, SON

UBA positions for Pan African banking

Tax relief for Total on renewable energy

•Appoints executives

From Nduka Chiejina (Asst. Editor), Abuja

U

T

HE Federal Govern ment has granted To tal Nigeria Plc tax relief for building a renewable energy plant.

The initiative of the firm to introduce its new ‘Awango’ portable solar lamps into the market would go a long way in leveraging the country’s drive for climate change, the government said.

Speaking at the launch of Total Sun King Solo Lamp, Awango and Total Sun King Pro Lamp, in Abuja, yesterday, the Minister of State for Power, Hajiya Zainab Kuchi, also promised that the Federal Government would give fiscal incentive to investors in renewable energy.

She said the incentives form part of government’s support towards increasing the use of renewable energy.

Hajiya Zainab Kuchi, urged the firm to build a renewable energy factory in Nigeria “because there are tax holidays, fiscal policy incentives and economic incentives. I assure you, that with a population of 160 million Nigerians, is a huge market. You need to harness it even if it is just for the social responsibility that you intend.”

She said government will ensure that fiscal incentives are made available to investors in all aspects of renewable energy.

“We have economic incentives for those who import equipment, and look forward to more enhanced participation in this area,” she addded

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

• From left: Sanusi, Imoke and Senate Leader, Victor Ndoma-Egba at the inauguration of the CBN Entrepreneurship Development Centre in Calabar ... yesterday.

Unemployment worsening, says Sanusi

G

OVERNMENTS ef forts aimed at creat ing jobs and reducing unemployment may have yielded very little results, going by what the Central Bank Governor, Sanusi, Lamido Sanusi, has said.

Sanusi, who spoke at the launching of the Southsouth Zone of the Entrepreneurship Development Centre (EDC) in Calabar, the Cross River State capital yesterday, said the unnemployment rate in the country has exhibited a worsening trend, rising from 8.2 per cent in 1999 to 23.9 per cent in 2011. Specifically, the rate increased from 7.9 per cent in 2002 to 18.2 per cent, nine years later, he said.

Quoting from last year’s General Household Survey by the National Bureau of Statistics, he said 23.9 per cent of the adult working population is unemployed, adding that this would obviously not only have a significant effect on the psychology of the individuals concerned, but also have a destabilising impact on the wider society.

Admitting that the nation is confronted with a various developmental challenges, Sanusi argued that the apex bank in its bid to support efforts aimed at reversing the challenges, continued to partner with the government

• Imoke inaugurates Southsouth entrepreneurship centre From Nicholas Kalu, Calabar

and some stakeholders to initiate policies, programmes and schemes that will impact the lives of youths in the country.

He said the EDC would be expected to serve Akwa Ibom, Rivers, Bayelsa, Edo, Delta and Cross River states, in enrolling and trainees the youths to take them off the unemployment queue.

He said the EDC provides a platform for state governments, the private sector and the CBN to jointly support entrepreneurship development across the country.

“The centre provide facilities for training, particularly secondary school leavers and university graduates to obtain skills on how to identify, choose, and practically engage in profitable production of goods and services,” he said.

Cross River State Governor, Liyel Imoke, in his speach, urged unemployed youths in the South -South region to take full advantage of the South-South EDC to empower themselves, saying the centre will enable them acquire capabili-

ties to engage as active agents in the economic growth and integration of the region.

He said: “In Nigeria today, there are millions of young people who are economically dislocated either through unemployment or a lack of engagement with any meaningful economic activities. In effect, 24 percent of our economic agents are disaffected and disenfranchised through unemployment and that figure rises to almost 70 percent when we consider those between the ages of 18 and 30”.

The governor explained that in recognition of this problem, the state government, through the Investment Promotion Bureau, set up the Micro-Finance and Enterprise Development Agency (MEDA) to promote and deliberately cultivate the entrepreneurial spirit amongst young people, reorientating them towards private enterprise.

He said the state has made some noteworthy success in Agriculture as it has established Songhai farm with the first 98 participants returning from training at the Songhai Regional centre at

Porto Novo in Benin Republic and are currently undergoing entrepreneurship training at the EDC. “Last month, we witnessed the launch of the Incubation Centre at the Tinapa Knowledge City, a project driven by the need to provide a creative environment for our ICT proficient youths to develop their skills and hone their craft with the end result being the development of ICT solutions which have direct market applicability and immediate commercial value.”

Imoke, said the state is excited about the launch and that EDC initiative enables beneficiaries to acquire the relevant skills in generating good business ideas, develop bankable business plans, and gain access to microcredit linkage for business startup capital and business development services.

“It presents a seamless integration with what we have already started here in Cross River and I am in no doubt that this initiative will consolidate our efforts. This initiative is a testament to the gains which could accrue from an effective partnership and collaboration between the states and Federal Government” he said.

BPE, power investors brainstorm on entrance to capital market T HE Bureau of Public En terprises ( BPE) and the new owners of the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) yesterday brainstormed on how to raise long term capital from the capital market into the sector.

A source, who spoke to The Nation in confidence, said the meeting discussed how the investors can raise long-term funds from the market for the sector.

He noted that the meeting was part of the preparation for a smooth

• Govt briefs PHCN investors

From John Ofikhenua, Abuja

handover of the plants to their buyers in order to reduce liabilities to the barest minimum.

BPE’s Director-General, Benjamin Dikki presided over the meeting that was held at the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja.

The Nation gathered that the meeting was interac-

tive with the stakeholders in the power sector.

Those who attended included the Managing Director, Nigeria Electricity Bulk Trade , the Director-General, Security and Exchange Commission (SEC), Ms. Aruma Oteh and the Managing Director, Nigeria Electricity Liability Management Company (NELCOM), and others.

Dikki gave an update on the payment of severance package to the PHCN employees to the investors.

It was also learnt that the modality on how to engage labour under the new dispensation was a major issue at the meeting.

The source added that the meeting deliberated on the new workforce of the PHCN, and and the possibility of retaining some.

The Nation yesterday reported that the BPE and the new owners of the power entities were to meet.

NITED Bank for Africa Plc (UBA) has launched Project Alpha – the Group’s next stage focus of strategic transformation.

UBA has for eight years executed a dedicated strategy of local, regional and global expansion, whose implementation has seen the Group transform from a national player to an institution of international prominence.

Project Alpha is a three-year route map of key transformation initiatives designed to consolidate the Group’s strategic positioning and fully capture the opportunities from Africa’s economic renaissance and the Group’s unique platform.

Also, a series of senior executive hires underlines the Group’s commitment to Project Alpha.

Mr. Apollos Ikpobe has been appointed as Deputy Managing Director, Domestic Bank and Ms. Obi Ibekwe as Executive Director Human Resources and Customer Service. Both appointments have been approved by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

Mr. Ikpobe, who was until recently an Executive Director at Zenith Bank, a position he held for 7 years, brings over 21 years of experience of the Nigerian banking sector. Mr. Ikpobe will be responsible for driving UBA’s domestic business in Nigeria.

His appointment complements existing Deputy Managing Director, Mr. Kennedy Uzoka, responsible for Resources and Treasury.

The new Executive Director Human Resources and Customer Service, Ms. Ibekwe had a distinguished career with Zenith Bank Plc, where she was responsible for Human Resource Management, Customer Services, as well as Credit Risk Management. She has a background in consulting, banking and customer service, critical for leading the renewed service excellence culture at UBA. Her appointment to the board brings to five, the number of female Directors at the Group board of UBA. Other key appointments also announced include Mr. Rasheed Adegoke, General Manager in charge of Group Information Technology. Mr Adegoke joins UBA from First Bank of Nigeria, where he was CIO, a role he has held over 13 years at different institutions in the Nigerian financial services sector.

Emmanuel Nnorom, Formerly Executive Director, Finance & Risk Management at UBA, has been appointed as the CEO for UBA Africa.

Other senior level appointments in UBA Africa include Mrs. Amie Sow, Managing Director, UBA Senegal; Mr. Demola Ogunfeyimi, Managing Director, UBA Tanzania; Mr. Mamadou Sanon, Managing Director, UBA Gabon; Mr. Martin Che, Managing Director, UBA Congo Brazzaville; Mr. Marcel Bitang, Managing Director, UBA DRC; Mr. Stanley Ugwueze, Managing Director, UBA Zambia; Mrs. Abiola Bawuah, Deputy Managing Director, UBA Ghana; Mr. Benedict Nklama, Executive Director, UBA Kenya; Mr. Wilbrod Owor, Executive Director, UBA Uganda and Mr. Chinedu Obeta, Executive Director, UBA Sierra Leone.

“UBA is able to recruit the cream of African banking talent and we are proud to be able to provide a dynamic platform for these Africans to contribute to our continent’s transformation” said the GMD/CEO, UBA Mr. Phillips Oduoza.

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THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2013

PROPERTY

Tuesday, SEPTEMBER 3, 2013 Website:- http://www.thenationonlineng.com

•Justice Uwais

•Pepple

17

* The Environment * Mortgage * Apartments * Security * Homes * Real Estate

email:- property@thenationonlineng.net

•Omeife

How can building collapses be stopped? It is by the enforcement of a strict building code, say experts at a forum held by the Federal Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development to address this recurring issue. SEYI ODEWALE reports.

Towards a strict building code T

HEY gathered in Abuja not for a jamboree but for the serious business of curbing the increasing rate of building collapse across the country.

The Minister of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Ms. Amma Pepple, convened, the meeting, which was held in conjunction with the National Building Code Advisory Committee, the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN) and the Federal Housing Authority (FHA). It was to revalidate and press for the adoption of the revised building code.

The first edition of the code was published in 2006, with a provision for its review every three years. The effort was necessitated by the need to update the code to correct the lapses and omissions identified; align them with the current policy direction of government and adequately curb the alarming rate of building collapse in urban centres. It is also believed by construction experts that the updated code would ensure conformity with the International Building Code, which emphasises the seriousness of fire hazards in buildings and the provision of fire protection system in buildings, particularly high-rise buildings.

It is believed that the code will not only arrest building collapse but will tackle the use of substandard materials in construction and address lack of maintenance of buildings, among others.

Worried by the low level of adherence to the code since 2006, Ms Pepple said states should adopt it to maintain the prescribed standards in the building and construction industry. She noted that its enforcement would regulate the construction of buildings and non-building structures. Building collapses, Pepple said, was not because of lack of requisite laws but ineffectiveness in their enforcements.

Giving an insight into the meeting, President, Nigerian Institute of Building (NIOB) Chucks Omeife said: “The meeting was a re-validation meeting of professionals and stakeholders in the built environment. It was organised by the Federal Ministry of

Lands, Housing and Urban Development and was chaired by Hon. Minister of the Ministry, whose mandate included providing a working document for the regulation of the built environment.

“Earlier all stakeholders submitted memoranda as input in the process of reviewing the National Building Code. We were then requested to come together to agree on the different inputs that will ensure that the code is effective and its implementation capable of resolving all the problems associated with the built environment. The major problem that we tried to provide solution for was building collapse.”

He added: “The Nigerian Institute of Building’s position has been that the gap in the existing framework is some of the major reasons for building collapse and disconnect between Design and Construction. It has become very necessary for the building approval process to be strengthened to cope with the various challenges in the built environment. The inclusion of Builders’ document as enshrined in the code being reviewed is a very practical way of solving the prevalent problem of building collapse across the country.

“The Builders document include: Quality management plan, health and safety plan and construction programme of work. This document engenders efficient and quality delivery of building works. This is why we strongly believe that

the inclusion of this document as a pre-condition for granting approval will guarantee professional involvement of the builder who is responsible for building production and management of building works.

“There is no new code yet as stakeholders inputs are still being collated. It is after the collation that another meeting will be held to ensure that input is truly captured. It is after this that the code can be said to have been reviewed.”

Listing what necessitated the review of the code, Omeife said the plan-less nature of our towns and cities; incessant cases of buildings collapse; fire in high-rise buildings; built environment abuses and other disasters; dearth of referenced design standards for professionals; use of non-professionals; use of untested products and materials; inadequate regulations and sanctions against offender were some of the reasons that prompted the organisers of the meeting.

NIOB also at its 43th Annual General Meeting (AGM), which also held in Abuja last week had building collapse on its agenda. Omeife in his welcome address said the menace of building collapse, which is avoidable, “cannot be used as a reliable indicator of the competence of professionals in the built environment, since it has been established that there is a missing link and a gap in the existing regulatory framework.”

He added: “One of the most enduring solutions to the problem of building collapse is

national building code will soon ‘beA revised presented to government for approval to

ensure better safety standards and the protection of lives and property from avoidable hazards arising from the occupancy of buildings, structures and premises

’

for the government to take the enabling bill which is supposed to give a legal backing to the National Building Code as an executive bill to hearten its promulgation by the National Assembly. This way the buildings waiting to collapse can be perverted and sanity can return to a large extent to the built environment.”

Pepple in her keynote address at the AGM with the theme: “Transformation of the building industry, possibilities and realities,” said the building industry was replete with enormous challenges, which according to her are surmountable.

She said: “The challenges are not insurmountable though. It is encouraging that they are being addressed by the current administration under the leadership of President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan. Accordingly, the policy framework for ensuring an integrated and coordinated effort for the accomplishment of the national strategic objective of transforming the housing and urban development sector has been put in place through the approved National Housing and Urban Development Policies. The framework reflects the priorities and strategies of the sector, as enunciated in Vision 20:2020 and the Transformation Agenda.

“A national integrated infrastructure master plan, with a strong housing and urban and regional development, is at the final stage of its development. A revised national building code will soon be presented to government for approval to ensure better safety standards and the protection of lives and property from avoidable hazards arising from the occupancy of buildings, structures and premises.”

Concluding her address she said: “The preponderance of quacks in the built environment is very distressing, and needs to be addressed. Other sharp practises such as the use of inferior building materials, inadequate supervision, change of building design on site after approval, inad•Continued on page 18

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2013

18

PROPERTY/ENVIRONMENT

Fashola orders probe of LBIC over subscribers’ claims

A

LL hope is not lost for subscribers who were allegedly fleeced after paying for houses managed by the Lagos Building Investment Company (LBIC). Governor Babatunde Fashola has ordered a probe of the company’s activities.

Following the subscribers' complaints. The Nation on March 12 carried a story of subscribers allegedly swindledby some workers and agents of LBIC. Fashola's probe order to the Attorney-General and Commissioner of Justice Ade Ipaye was said to have followed the subscriber complaints that the House of Assembly is slow in investigating the matter.

The House raised a three-member committee to investigate the alleged scam following The Nation’s report.

The committee, headed by Mrs. Adefunmilayo Tejuoso, has as members, Oluwakayode Ogundimu and Remi Olowo.

The committee has completed its assignment but its report was not considered by the House before it went on vacation. The House is expected to resume this month.

The Nation gathered that during the panel’s sitting, LBIC’s Managing Director Babatunde Jinadu and the Company Secretary, Kunle Akindele, came under fire from the aggrieved subscribers who backed up their claims with documentary evidence.

Johnson Atoyebi, Adeniyi Olanrewaju, Alhaji Ajani Adedibu and Alhaji Jimoh Akewusure are among the subscribers, allegedly encouraged

by LBIC officials and agents to invest millions of naira into some housing project, but the firm reportedly failed to keep its part of the bargain.

They had claimed that some agents of LBIC told them that the company was selling some apartments within

•One of the estates managed by LBIC.

‘

The Attorney-General, it was learnt, has assigned the Directorate of Advisory Services and Judiciary Liaison, an office within the state’s Justice Ministry, to investigate the case and advise the Ministry on the appropriate step to take

By Eric Ikhilae and Seyi Odewale

the Iponri Low-Cost Housing Estate, Iponri, Lagos and encouraged them to make payment.

Investigations revealed that instances abound where allocations were deliberately delayed even when payment has been fully made. When allocations are eventually made, necessary documents are withheld. In some other cases, subscribers’ funds were deliberately tied down without any explanation, and where partpayment is made, no official receipts were issued.

Atoyebi paid N3 million for a threebedroom flat at the Iponri Estate in 2010. He claimed to have been made to pay over N2m extra, but was even-

’

tually allocated a two-bedroom apartment three years later and the necessary documents withheld from him.

Olanrewaju said he paid N2.5m in 2011 for an aprtment. He claimed to have been made to pay additional N1.5m into a private account owned by an LBIC official. Till date, no house has been allocated to him.

Adedibu was a sitting tenant. He said he was encouraged by LBIC’s officials to make part-payment for the purchase of the apartment he occupies, with the understanding that the balance of N1.5million would be paid in instalments.

Adedibu said he paid the N1million in July 2011, but was not issued any receipt and was later ejected from the apartment with a refund.

Akewusure claimed to have expended millions of naira to renovate his apartment, with the understanding that the apartment would be sold to him at a reduced cost. Akewusure said he was taken aback when officials of the LBIC threatened him with eviction after he had renovated the house and without promise of a refund.

The Nation learnt that Fashola’s intervention was particularly influenced by a petition dated May 21, this year and a reminder dated June 14, written by Atoyebi’s lawyer Wahab Shittu.

It was further learnt that immediately the Governor became aware of the petition, he sent it to the Attorney-General for investigation.

Although Jinadu was to retire before now, The Nation learnt that the Governor insisted that he sees to the end of various allegations of sharp practices raised by many subscribers against his management before he leaves the company.

The Attorney-General, it was learnt, has assigned the Directorate of Advisory Services and Judiciary Liaison, an office within the state’s Justice Ministry, to investigate the case and advise the Ministry on the

Towards a strict building code •Continued on page 18

equate use of building materials for construction and failing to abide by planning rules and regulations will no longer be tolerated. I therefore, urge you all to be familiar with the provisions of the revised national building code because once it is approved, priority attention will be accorded to its strict enforcement by which time there will be no room for excuses.”

In his address, the chairman of the occasion and former Chief Justice

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of the Federation, Justice Mohammed Lawal Uwais said the collapse of building is one of the most challenging problems facing the urbanising of the nation. “This is a source of concern not only to the professionals and the government, but also to everyone. The frequencies of collapse of buildings and the associated negative consequences have continued to place doubts on the effectiveness of all the efforts being made to stem the menace,” he said.

To stem the tide of building col-

lapse, he said: “The industry has to look inwardly; the building environment is dynamic and is becoming increasingly complex. There is the need to keep your members abreast of evolving technologies in the construction industry in order to meet new challenges.”

He continued: “There is the need also for the National Assembly, as a matter of urgency, to pas the Building Code bill, which has been lying before it and which I hear is also undergoing review by the professionals in the building industry un-

der the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development. Passing the bill will help in no small measure, because, the building code provisions are intended to take care of most of the problems mentioned above. The building code is the appropriate and most effective regulatory framework for monitoring and controlling the various stages in the execution of building project.

Also, it will make the professionals in the industry to professionalise the operations of the construction business in Nigeria.”

Anambra, firm partner on N50b market

EST Trade Centre (WTC) and the Anambra State Government are partnering to build a N50billion trade centre at Ogbunike near Onitsha that will house about 30,000 stalls.

Addressing reporters in Awka, the state capital, WTC President, Mr. Emmanuel Anyaralu, said the market would be made up of 65 clusters of 440 stalls each to be built on 50 hectares of land.

He said all traders would be accommodated in the market, which he said would not only decongest markets around Onitsha but attract businesses from Lagos and other West African cities where Anambra and Igbo people have established businesses.

From Odogwu Emeka Odogwu.

The Commissioner for Commerce and Industry Mr. Robert Okonkwo said the state government bought into the scheme because of its desire to build modern markets with all the necessary facilities for international trade centres.

He said the market would provide shelter for Igbo traders, who may want to relocate from hostile business environments in other parts of the country.

Apart from building the market, Okonkwo said government was constructing roads and a mono-rail that will link the site with other major centres in Onitsha and

neighbouring cities, such as Awka and Nnewi.

His counterpart for Youths and Sports Dr. Edozie Aroh said the centre was an answer to Igbo traders who have been looking for where to do business in Igboland.

The state House of Assembly Committee Chairman on Internally Generated Revenue Mr Valentine Anyika said the centre would not only boost the revenue profile of the state but would provide ample employment and business opportunities for its people.

While appealing to traders to patronise the project, Committee Chairman on Commerce and Industry Dr. Ikechukwu Umeh promised that the House of Assembly would

assist with the necessary legislative framework to encourage the project.

Arranged into two major phases, Anyaralu said the first phase will tentatively cost N10 billion to execute, while the second phase will cost N40 billion.

The project, he said, will have warehousing facilities, bondage warehousing for bulk customs clearance, health facilities, lodging and conference centre, adding that the project would be a continuous one considering the dynamic nature of the global economy.

The project’s private sector facilitators are members of the Association of Cosmetics and Allied Products Marketers of Nigeria.

appropriate step to take.

An Assistant Chief Counsel with the Directorate of Advisory Services and Judiciary Liaison, Mrs I. I. Isinjola, confirmed Fashola’s directive in a letter to Atoyebi’s lawyer, dated June 19, this year.

The letter reads: “I am directed to acknowledge the receipt of your letter addressed to the Executive Governor of Lagos State, a copy of which was forwarded to the office of the Honourable Attorney General.

“I am further directed to inform you that the letter is receiving the necessary attention.”

But when The Nation visited the Lagos Justice Ministry, it was learnt that the official handling the case was having difficulties getting the LBIC to respond to allegations contained in Atoyebi’s petition.

Officials of the company, it was learnt, have consistently avoided any contact with the official from the Justice Ministry and have allegedly refused to respond to written queries.

“We have written them twice. We have also visited the company on different occasions. But they have refused to speak to us. Initially, we were even allowed to see some of the officials when we visited. But when last we were there, we were not allowed to go beyond the reception area.

“We have sent the third letter to them. If they fail to respond this time, we will have no option than to write our advice based on the information we have. Their refusal to respond to our queries simply means that they have no response,” an official of the Ministry said.

Earlier in June, an official of the company tried thrice to organise a media chat with the management of the company to allow them state their case, but it could not hold. The reason for this could not be explained. This made the man who tried to arrange the meeting to say in desperation that: “I think I have done my best. Whatever happens after this is their problem. They asked me to use my contacts to get the medium that broke the story to give them the chance to defend themselves, and I did just that. The man came on three different occasions, but nobody attended to him. They have forgotten that a story of this nature is always followed up,” the official said.

Ogun acquires equipment

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O ensure efficient land administration, the Ogun State Government through the Bureau of Lands and Survey has acquired the Continuously Operation Reference System (CORS) network, Director-General of the bureau, Adewale Oshinowo has said.

Oshinowo, at an interactive session with reporters in Abeokuta, said the state has acquired Very High Resolution Satellite Imagery installed on high development areas of the state.

The equipment, like 3D Stereo and 50 Cm Imagery, he said, was installed on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, Lagos-Ogun border areas, Abeokuta, Ifo, Ijebu Ode, Ilaro, Ilaro-Ofada road, Ode-Omi and Sagamu.

The equipment, he said, would allow surveyors, government agencies and the public have access to data through Radio Satellites, Direct Global Positioning System (DGPS) and the internet, adding that it would help to produce high accuracy maps and Global Positioning System (GPS) navigation projects.

The project is expected to be inaugurated by the end of November.

The CORS project stations, he said, had been built in Abeokuta, Agbara and Ijebu-Ode, adding that four other stations would be deployed during the Phase II in ensure 100 per cent coverage of the state.

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2013

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COMMENTARY FROM OTHER LANDS

EDITORIALS

Special border corps

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•This is superfluous. Rather we should strengthen existing institutions

E know that the nation’s borders have always been porous.

We equally know that something drastic must be done to curb the trend. But what is doubtful is whether the Federal Government’s imminent move to create a special border corps to be responsible for protecting the nation’s borders against especially terrorists and illegal immigrants’ infiltration, will be the panacea.

Emeka Obua, Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) Public Relations Officer reportedly confirmed the move: “The Minister of Interior, Abba Moro, has been working tirelessly with the ControllerGeneral of Immigration (CGI), to ensure that the border corps is established by the Federal Government. The corps will

‘We agree that the nation needs to do something urgent concerning its borders at this time when terrorist activities pervade the land. The influx of agents of violence into Nigeria is a consequence of her long admitted permeable borders manned mostly by illmotivated and corrupt officers.

But to rectify this anomaly would not have been through the setting up of a parallel agency that might lead to avoidable rancour’

be in charge of border protection and it will be fully equipped with the latest security equipment to stop terrorists and other irregular immigrants from breaching our borders; the formation of the corps would be announced in due course,” he said. David Parradang, the CGI has also submitted a proposal requesting for the approval of 5,000 recruits to that effect, to the government. This is aside from those that would be deployed from the immigration service to work with the proposed outfit.

The border corps, to be costumed in camouflage, will be statutorily empowered to move around the borders in patrol vans round the clock and will reportedly have access to digital infrared cameras, hand scanners and other hi-tech security gadgets to detect illegal entry into the country through the borders.

Unfortunately, it is debatable whether the promoters of this initiative can vouch for its effectiveness and sustainability.

Rather than fashion out ways through which the NIS can be made more virile, it is sad that some government officials came up with such fantasy as policy. We are certain that it would, at best, be another drain on the public till; a shadow chasing plot, which obviously makes a mockery of existing structures and the touted move of the current administration to curb illegalities at the nation’s numerous border posts.

If indeed the CGI has made a case to the presidency regarding the problem of inadequate staffing facing the Immigration service, how would the creation of a special border corps be solution to this?

Assuming the government even succeeds in its move to establish this proposed, well-catered-for and better-equipped corps, would that not translate to breeding unhealthy rivalry with the staff of the NIS? It is wrong for the government to embark on this policy when it has not solved the myriad of problems facing the Immigration service.

We agree that the nation needs to do something urgent concerning its borders at this time when terrorist activities pervade the land. The influx of agents of violence into Nigeria is a consequence of her long admitted permeable borders manned mostly by ill-motivated and corrupt officers. But to rectify this anomaly would not have been through the setting up of a parallel agency that might lead to avoidable rancour.

We call on the government to fortify the Immigration service so that it can adequately respond to contemporary challenges. The service needs modern security gadgets; it needs sophisticated communication gadgets, strong patrol vehicles, bullet-proof vests and more importantly, a tested insurance scheme to cater for its staff in case of any accident.

The budget being proposed for this special corps will readily serve this essence and also make the nation’s borders reasonably impervious to the antics of illegal immigrants that are mostly on a mission to foment bedlam in the land.

The government should forget this grandiose idea of setting up a new special corps to reinforce the borders. As we have argued, strengthening the existing institutions will suffice.

Flawed Ondo verdict

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•The Supreme Court did not sufficiently interrogate the basic questions of the appeal

T did not seem to us that the Supreme Court of Nigeria which delivered its judgment on the disputed governorship election in Ondo State did justice to the matter. The Justices dismissed the appeals filed by the candidate of the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Mr. Oluwarotimi Akeredolu (SAN), and also that of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mr. Olusola Oke. In dismissing Mr. Akeredolu’s petition, the court held that he failed to prove his case beyond reasonable doubt, while in the other judgment it also held that Mr. Oki was not able to prove the alleged illegal insertion of over 100,000 voters into the voter register.

The apex court was reported to further hold that both appellants could not prove their cases which they found to be substantially criminal in nature, beyond reasonable doubt. The court further held that the parties could not substantiate that the alleged unlawful injection of over 100,000 voters into the register affected the outcome of the election; considering that Governor Olusegun Mimiko of the Labour Party (LP) won the election by more than the disputed number of votes.

In our view, the exertion of proof beyond reasonable doubt for election petitions and question of what effect the unlawful insertion had, are mere legal sophistry.

Indeed, while the summations of the court may be tenable under our legal system, more so being the judgment of the apex court; we doubt if it satisfies the so-

ciological requirement of law acting as a deterrent against impunity. For, if the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), as alleged, truly inserted as many as 100,000 unlawful voters into the register, then the election ought to have been voided, without any further ado.

While the winner may have won with more than the disputed votes, the fact of that impunity and the debilitating effect it may have had on even potential voters before the election, should, in our view, be enough reason to call for a fresh election by lawful voters.

Furthermore, the fact of whether unlawful voters were added on the list or not, should be one that a trial court could easily have found out, if the officials of the electoral body were put in the witness box. Unfortunately, the society is the loser for that, as the matter was muddled up in the foggy determination of whether that important question was a pre-election matter or not. Having been denied that opportunity, it is a double whammy for the appeal court to yet again hold that the appellant should be required to prove the allegation beyond reasonable doubt, failing which, it dismissed the appeal.

With due respect to the Supreme Court and the Court of Appeal, the loss of the opportunity to hold the electoral body accountable does not serve our electoral system better. We however appreciate that the appellate court acted to have the matter determined within the period provided by the electoral act. While we have argued for election petitions to be determined within a time frame to stop elec-

tion losers serving out full term while the matter is litigated, it is also important that the tribunals are compelled to hear all cases on merit, including interlocutory applications, so as to avail the appellate court the opportunity to have all the facts and material evidence before it.

As Governor Mimiko savours his judicial victory, he must ponder the averment of Charles Titiloye, counsel to Mr. Akeredolu that the judgment “is a tacit judicial endorsement of electoral fraud; that is the illegal injection of voters perpetuated by the electoral body.” That allegation, unfortunately, also puts a question mark on our electoral and judicial processes.

‘As Governor Mimiko savours his judicial victory, he must ponder the averment of Charles Titiloye, counsel to Mr. Akeredolu that the judgment “is a tacit judicial endorsement of electoral fraud; that is the illegal injection of voters perpetuated by the electoral body.”

That allegation, unfortunately, also puts a question mark on our electoral and judicial processes’

Barack Obama’s gamble on Syria – US president has made a strong case and deserves a Yes

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F David Cameron had a replay of last week’s parliamentary vote, he would have waited for Barack Obama to announce first. Whether the US president’s weekend decision to seek Congressional approval first occurred to him before or after Mr Cameron’s stunning reversal is now moot.

Even though he now risks being accused of prevarication, Mr Obama is right to seek authorisation. He is also right to couch the request for military action in narrow and limited terms. But he needs to do a far better job of explaining his broader strategy on Syria.

Failure to spell it out could jeopardise the clear majorities he will need in both chambers of Congress. Defeat in either chamber would deal a grievous blow to his The case for US-led international action is strong and becoming stronger. By killing at least 1,000 civilians with sarin gas last month, the Assad regime has traduced the most basic humanitarian norms. It could do so again.

Failure to register the world’s disapproval – and its willingness to respond – would embolden the Assads and their supporters. In contrast to Mr Cameron’s cobbled-together approach, the Obama administration has made a coherent, forceful case for limited, punitive strikes. On the draft resolution’s language alone, Mr Obama deserves a Yes vote from Capitol Hill as soon as practical – preferably before the end of next week.

But Mr Obama still needs to make a stronger case for the course on which he has embarked. On the resolution, he has made it clear he is requesting, not requiring, Congress’s approval – in contrast to Libya in 2011, when he said he already had the authority to act. Some officials have hinted Mr Obama would press ahead with the strikes regardless of the US vote. That would be a mistake.

The president has rightly staked his case on grounds of principle and he should stay there.

The second concern is about Mr Obama’s strategy on the ground in Syria. While it makes sense to confine the rationale for strikes to chemical weapons, the debate over regime change is only going to intensify. Mr Assad looks likely to respond to the US strikes in some form. There will be no good options available. On the plus side, Mr Obama has bought himself time to push for a diplomatic breakthrough at the G20 summit in St Petersburg next week and elsewhere. That, too, may be a long shot. But he needs to work tirelessly on creating some less bad options for himself.

– Financial Times

TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief Victor Ifijeh

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THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2013

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CARTOON & LETTERS

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IR: I watched some children conversing in English, and how they ‘butchered’ that language. Worse still they could not even speak Igbo, their native tongue. The emergence of a generation of children especially in the East who either cannot speak the Igbo language well or at all spells doom for the language. It calls for urgent attention if the Igbo language is not to become extinct in the near future.

It has unfortunately become fashionable especially among young parents to speak only the English language to their children. Yea, they desire them to be fluent in the Queen’s language, to be seen as polished. These parents may not be aware and may even deny it but the truth is that their action is

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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

A plea for local languages mostly informed by a subconscious feeling that the native language is too ‘local’, primitive, and inferior.

Some of these deluded folks even proudly advertise the fact that their children cannot or have difficulty in comprehending their native tongue. By implication, only ‘local’ children are expected to be fluent in their native tongue. How unfortunate!

I find it tragic seeing parents who can hardly navigate their way through the English language sweating to teach same to their children. I once chanced upon a rather bizarre scene of a woman selling akara balls by the roadside communicating with her little boy in what could best be described as tattered English. How ridiculous!

These parents end up not only

teaching their children horrible English but also denying them of opportunity to learn their native tongue. We thus have children that can neither speak good English nor their native tongue; that are neither here nor there. Such children with little or no knowledge of their roots will grow into adults who may likely feel inferior around more culturally grounded adults

would have done well to find solace in plucking the streaks of grey in Odimegwu’s bristle rather than going the whole hog of recommending his head for the guillotine.

Surely the truth is bitter, but we all must not allow ourselves to be amenable to amnesia as it concerns the actual comment made in respect of past census in Nigeria. To be specific, I strongly believe, Odimegwu’s statement was not only meant for the con-

sumption of all Nigerians but aimed at unearthing for our collective reflection, the fundamental malaise associated with demographics in Nigeria from the colonial era to 2006, when the last census exercise was conducted. It therefore boggles one’s mind why our compatriots from the far North are yelling out as if they were the only people that heard and/ or understood the statement credited Odimegwu.

It is high time we – Nigerians – learnt to confront issues and not individuals. Indeed the chairman of the National Population Commission, has passed his message, willy-nilly, and the onus is now on those who disagree with him to rebut his message by dint of issue-based arguments and cogent reasons and not by attacking his person.

• Onyiorah Chiduluemije Abuja

Confront issues, not Odimegwu

IR: The increasing vituperative reactions emanating mostly from northern leaders against the person of Festus Odimegwu, chairman of National Population Commission, over the statement credited to him to the effect that all the census exercises held in Nigeria so far were basically riddled with irregularities of immense proportion that ultimately undermined their credibility, appear to be not only misdirected but apparently risible. This is considering the sheer emptiness of some of these criticisms that clearly underscore the sole intent of those behind them to be merely spiteful and nothing more.

One had thought that by the prevailing circumstance of Odimegwu’s revelation and his well registered unwillingness to embrace the typically Nigerian administrative culture of window dressing inherent in our public service life (which the likes of Rabiu Kwankwaso would have preferred and in fact had confessed their predilection for), these cavilers would have done well in picking holes on the actual issues raised by Odimegwu rather than going personal about the whole thing. They

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from other parts of the world thus giving credence to the unfortunate misconception that we are people without culture and history. This must not be allowed.

Government and our schools must redouble effort to promote our indigenous languages. The declining number of people who major in our indigenous languages at higher level is indeed worrisome. A secondary school once advertised vacancy for Igbo language teacher and for weeks and got no application. Measures and incentives should be evolved to encourage undergraduates to major in our indigenous languages. Indigenous language literatures should be encouraged. Perhaps a credit in an indigenous language should also be one of the criteria for admission into higher institution. It is indeed of great importance that government and conscious citizens brainstorm and devise means to preserve our languages and cultures.

And to the parents, especially the young ones, I say, please, help save our languages. It is no shame for a child to be fluent in his or her native tongue. Speak and teach the children their native language, they’ll definitely learn English at school.

• Nnoli Chidiebere Aba, Abia State.

Oyo-Ogbomoso road deserves attention

IR: Incessant loss of lives at the Oyo-Ogbomoso section of the Old Ibadan- Ilorin highway with no end insight necessitated this outcry to the government to rescue innocent Nigerians from brutal death. The gory sight of mangled bodies of 18 passengers whose vehicle was involved in an auto accident at Agric Area, towards Ogbomoso in the night of Thursday, August 15, showed how brutish Nigerians lives are.

It has come to a situation when passengers plying this road have to pray fervently before embarking on their journey. Over speeding and lackadaisical attitude of

drivers of articulated lorries popularly called trailers to the plights of other vehicles on that road is a cause of the incessant carnage on this busy road. Another cause of accident on this road is the rate at which these articulated lorries break down on the road due to their age and over-loading. Once these trailers develop fault, they are usually abandoned on the road thereby causing accident because most of the oncoming vehicles would not know that abandoned vehicles are on the road until they get to that spot and collide with such abandoned vehicle. That was what caused August 15, accident men-

tioned above. Men of the Federal Road Safety Commission could not be blamed because they are trying their best but lack of towing vehicles is hindering their effectiveness in this wise.

Obviously, the hope that the new expressway from Oyo to Ogbomoso may bring succour to the travellers when completed is becoming forlorn. This is because the contractors handling the road have abandoned it due to lack of fund. The way out of this situation in my own opinion is that Oyo State government under the able leadership of Senator Abiola Ajimobi has to come to the aid of

the travellers on this road.

As a matter of fact, Ajimobi is on rescue mission in Oyo State. This is what his intervention policies thus far show. Therefore, his intervention is needed in this wise. I think if he can provide towing vehicles on this road, the carnage would reduce and that would be credited to him. As a matter of fact, it would be an innovation and government could generate fund, and provide employment for some people through that exercise.

• Adewuyi Adegbite Apake, Ogbomoso.

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2013

COMMENTS

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ANBABA Danfulani Suntai, Yar’ Adua bloc, after becomembattled governor of Taraba ing accidental president?

State, is happily locked in a gilt O, the recourse to crass lecage. But those trying to prise him from galism in defence – constituthat golden prison don’t necessarily tional right to run, Nigeria boast a better moral hue. needs “national”, not ethnic Both sides are power warriors, who leaders, and allied cant! But subscribe to the same rotten values. If while politically correct legalyou doubt, relive the odyssey of Presiism, with its empty fullness, dent Goodluck Jonathan. could truncate politically inOlakunle Vice President Jonathan was high viccorrect argument, it has lordbeek1@gmail.com, 08054504169 (Sms only, please) Abimbola tim of the Yar’ Adua cabal. That earned proved no Deus-ex-machina to him high national sympathy. Yet, the living problems like lack of victim as president has not exactly political fairness, ethnic domibalked at erecting his own cabal. nation, religious chauvinism, Indeed, the difference between the minority rights and allied Yar’Adua Katsina cabal and the fears. purist lawyers is helpless voices from the fringe. In the vorJonathan Ijaw cabal, vis-a-vis Jonathan’s presidential emerTrue, in a normal constitutional republic, Sections 189 and tex of state, the power lunatics are not only in government, gence and his plot for an encore in 2015, is just a stark ex190 of the 1999 Constitution ought to have led to seamless they are also in power! transition of power in Taraba. By Section 190, the letter by change of roles. In pole positions, both sides would dagger That brings the discourse to a suggestion that President justice with absolutely no qualms.

Governor Suntai that he is back and ready for work should Jonathan intervene in the Taraba show. To be sure, that is no So, will it be with the Taraba power tussle, whichever side have sufficed. That is what the law prescribes. But even the bad counsel.

But legally, what can he do that the 1999 Conof the divide, between Governor Suntai and Deputy Govermost doting of his friends know he is not. stitution, as amended, has not done, if the ground rule of nor Garba Umar, gains ascendancy.

To make matters worse, he sacked his cabinet to pre-empt political engagement is good faith?

That stark reality puts the moral purists in the media and the trigger of Section 189 (1) (a), which empowers the execuGood faith! That challenges the president’s own track tive council to declare the governor, on account of ill health, seething purists in the legal high streets, the likes of the record, after his odyssey, which the current Taraba box ofincapable of performing his duty. A medical board would irrepressible Femi Falana, SAN, who always literally flies fice monster hit seems uncannily cut after. off the handle at the whiff of any constitutional infraction, now confirm or demur (Section 189 (1) (b); Section 189 (4)).

True, the Yar’ Adua cabal, with the presidential widow, in a no-win situation.

That was power cynicism at its worst – and from a governor Turai Yar’Adua, reportedly playing a lead role in its high Yesterday, they were banging their heads against the wall mortally struggling with his health! tension power game, was a constitutional affront. Yet, in for Jonathan, the arch-victim. But how is Jonathan himself But in a festival of bad faith, the Taraba Assembly also retrospect, it knew what it was up against: a power ethos turning out? Today, they are fighting for the latest crusaderover-reached itself in its purported “rejection” of the goverwith absolutely no honour. nor’s letter; and re-crowning Deputy Governor Umar as saints on the block, the tag team of Deputy Governor Umar If you lost power, you lost everything – even power roActing Governor. It has no such powers under the law. Even and Taraba Speaker Haruna Tsokwa. But is there any guartary agreements signed in black-and-white! The cabal’s antee the pair would tomorrow not turn the latest constitumore grotesque is the Deputy Governor’s counter-instrucmethod? Prevention is better than cure – and if the Constitutional daemons? tion that the governor’s dissolution of his cabinet is void. At tion got slaughtered along the way, too bad!

So, then: good people should fold their arms? Hell, no! It the end of the day, except his side wins, Umar would lose Still, its illegal “prevention” collapsed under the weight is just that they are condemned to fighting the same battles, more than his office as deputy-governor. of national outrage. And the cabal is living its worst fears: and crowning yesterday’s victims as tomorrow’s devils. So, Suntai could well be the face of a Christian lobby, scared no “cure” for its loss. Yar’ Adua is dead and buried. Interred maybe it is time to quit getting excited over symptoms and stiff at a possible loss of power, in a state hinged on delicate with his bones is the worthless rotation agreement the North digging deep for the root cause. No sane law works on inChristian-Muslim divide: majority Christians with a sizestill clutches in moral rage! sane sociology. able Muslim population. It is the very opposite of Kaduna: Meanwhile, the arch-victim of yesterday, the president, Indeed, the Nigerian power code is stark – stark to the Muslim majority, with a sizeable Christian population. canters ahead on the same unconscionable power horse. The point of hopelessness: where there is power, there is no Umar, perhaps, is the face of a Muslim lobby, salivating at same people that balked at the Yar’ Adua cabal, and are now honour; where there is honour, there is no power. It doesn’t the rare chance of producing the top dog. Should Umar bebalking at the putative Taraba cabal, lost their moral outget any grimmer for a country that needs all its talents to come accidental governor and, like Jonathan after completrage when Jonathan, after finishing Yar’ Adua’s term, inbreak free; yet boasts a power vicious cycle that throws up ing Suntai’s term, insist on his “constitutional right” to run sisted on having a full term of his own – which he is having hustlers and racketeers! on his own, that would be a fait accompli – unless, of course, – and is busy plotting a second term, even if his party exAll the cacophony of protest from the media and from his party loses at the polls. plodes in the process! And all these without giving a damn These would appear the fears driving the Taraba standabout the deep hurt of the cheated! off. In such a titanic primordial tussle, there are neither con“Suntai would fight to the finish, So, what advice might the president give the Taraba gladistitutional saints nor sinners; only smart alec pawns deployThat they should stick by principles, as he himself has ing the Constitution to angle for group supremacy. even at the risk of his life; and Umar ators? done? Or give assurance that the Suntai bloc’s interest would That is why Suntai would fight to the finish, even at the no less, at the risk of political death” be protected even if Deputy Governor Umar became acci- risk of his life; and Umar no less, at the risk of political dental governor, as he himself protected the interest of the death.

epublican ipples

Suntai and the gilt cage

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EARLY 10 days after, I have sought in vain to locate the lacuna in the 1999 Constitution as amended on which those behind the contrived crisis in Jalingo can sufficiently stake their case. Not only does the issue seem so cut and dried that required no invocation of the doctrine of necessity; that we are at this point is partly explained by our boundless tolerance of political delinquency and the ingrained culture of impunity that has metastasised beyond measure.

Now, I have heard some people describe the arrival of Governor Danbaba Suntai first in Abuja and later in Jalingo last week as a public relations disaster. I consider that an understatement. Clearly, those who though very little of dragging the man through the motions of that ‘feigned consciousness’ have helped in no small measure to confirm our fears of how serious the incapacitation of Taraba’s chief of state is. Vegetative state may appear too strong to describe the man as we saw him on TV being brought down from the aircraft; nothing of his appearance – including his laboured address on TV (which could have been staged anyway) – presented him as anything near the fit-as-the fiddle individual that his hordes of supporters claim he is.

So, the man is back? No one argues that the individual brought down from the aircraft on August 25 is Danbaba Suntai. However, it must be disappointing for the throng gathered to welcome their governor, both at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport Abuja, and at Jalingo Airport, that the man who alighted from the aircraft looked pathetic, worn and lost after 10 months of medical sojourn in German and United States hospitals. Contrary to the high drama of his return, he certainly didn’t cut the picture of someone eager to return to his desks in months!

It is therefore understandable that those who scripted his return would seek a dramatic way to prove that their man is alive and well. Never mind that their principal could only take a fraction of three minutes of broadcast time to thank the people of the state for their prayers, support and understanding; he apparently had just enough reservoir of energy left subsequent to transmit a letter to the state legislature intimating them of his return to his duty post after 10 months of absence! And all of these barely 24 hours after his return!

But that is not anything near the Thursday’s overdrive – the order purportedly issued under the name of the governor dissolving the state executive council, an exercise that also swept away the Secretary to the State Government and the Chief of Staff both of whom were summarily replaced with new hands.

Policy Sanya Oni sanyaoni@yahoo.co.uk 08051101841

Suntai: Not always about the law Was the apparently shell-shocked lawmakers right to have insisted on having the governor address them at plenary as pre-condition for returning to his desk? Or even the more dramatic step of countermanding all the steps taken by the governor, and reaffirming Alhaji Garba Umar as the acting Governor only on the strength of their doubts which from all appearance looks well founded?

The answer to the first question is that the constitution is unambiguous about its provision on a returnee governor: a letter transmitted to the legislature is what is provided for. Much as the House would seek public understanding for what it considers a well-intentioned move, their doubts about the fitness of the governor to continue in office would certainly not be resolved by any steps taken outside of the law. The exception is if the House can prove that the letter was a forgery – an impossible task.

The other step of reversing the steps taken by the governor is not only ridiculous but an invitation to anarchy. While the governor remains in town, how does the House back up its resolve to keep the acting governor in charge? And what happens in case of contradictory orders from the executive branch?

What the Taraba farce does, just like the Umaru Yar’Adua tragedy, is present the nation with a Hobson choice, neither of which is desirable. No matter how one looks at it, the idea of a cabal –acting in proxy and purporting to be at the behest of the legitimate authority whose decision-making power appears impaired - is obviously beyond the contemplation of the constitution.

But then, there is also the danger of indecent haste by

constitutional do-gooders to assume the powers they clearly lack under an assumed exigency particularly when such steps end up subverting the same institutions they are supposed to make work.

I did not think that we had a grave constitutional problem in 2010 anymore than the actors in the Taraba drama can today claim difficulties in interpreting the relevant provisions. What we had was human problem – what I often describe as the delinquent antics of the operators of our laws. In 2010, it took the invocation of a superfluous doctrine of necessity to transfer executive powers from the terminally-ill President Yar’Adua to President Goodluck Jonathan when the Federal Executive Council could have acted promptly to stave off the looming constitutional crisis. The same failures are playing out in Taraba today.

The summary of course is that the option available to the Taraba House is rather limited in the circumstance.

To be sure, that option does not include power to reject the letter from the governor informing the house of his return to office. The power to determine the governor’s state of health resides with the executive council of the state. That power is exercised under Section 190 of the Constitution as amended. Surely, the House could have done better by working with the executive council, or, if it so chooses, proceed with impeachment.

That leads me to the final point – the decline in the standards of public conduct and morality. I think that we have invested too much energy in the laws without commensurate attention to values in public conduct. It seems to me that the only enduring lesson from the Yar’Adua and Suntai saga is how those serving in executive positions are unrepentantly beholden to their principals as against their sworn public duty. A good way to start with their re-orientation is to remind them of the oaths they swore at inception of office. At the moment, it does not seem that many appreciate the weight of those sworn declarations. Time to bring them to their attention.

‘Much as the House would seek public understanding for what it considers a well-intentioned move, their doubts about the fitness of the governor to continue in office would certainly not be resolved by any steps taken outside of the law’

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2013

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COMMENTS

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araba state in north eastern Nigeria is one of those rural states that offer natural attraction as a peaceful place to live.

Surrounded by Adamawa, Gombe, Bauchi, Plateau and Benue states and sharing Nigeria's international border with Cameroon, Taraba is hardly in the (national) news, not for lack of nothing to report about the state but simply because there are too many much more important things happening in the region competing for national attention pushing events in the state down the pecking order in most newsrooms across the country.

But that seems not to be the situation any longer following the surprise arrival on the scene penultimate Sunday of ailing Governor Danbaba Suntai after a 10-month medical holiday, first in a German hospital and later in another hospital in the United States.

Governor Suntai, you may recall was involved in an aircraft crash last October as he was piloting a small jet towards the international airport in Yola, capital of neighbouring Adamawa state. He almost lost his life in the accident and is alive today simply due to the grace of God and the miracle called modern medical science.

But while many Nigerians, especially his constituents are happy and grateful to God for sparing his life, Suntai, it does appear, is stretching his luck too far judging by the kind of activities he has engaged himself in since he was helped off the aircraft on arrival in Nigeria on August 25.

The governor, evidently still very ill, is not content with looking after his ill-health and has been dabbling into the delicate and dirty politics of Taraba with the likely consequence of deepening the crises that have engulfed the state since that ill-fated flight to Yola. After a few months lull following the media

I

T was with trepidation and a numbing disorder that I received the passing into glory of a friend, comrade, patriot, father figure and “twin brother”, Professor Martin Olusola Ogedengbe, Emeritus Professor of Civil Engineering, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife. The late amiable Ogedengbe had been ill for some time but his will to live was obvious in all his activities as he always drove himself to the hospital, church and such other places like the newspapers’ stand at the Obafemi Awolowo University gate for his newspapers.

In his tribute to the late Ogedengbe, Toye Olorode, the Botanist and highly regarded Political Economist described the death as the loss of “a courageous comrade, a great friend, a man for all seasons”. Indeed, the late Ogedengbe was a man of steely comportment who was rigidly committed to principles and not given to blinking and backpedaling on issues of honour and decency. As a teacher and unionist, he provided a strong moral compass for his students, colleagues and the university administrators alike. He was highly disciplined, thorough, easy-going, well-bred and radiated culture and excellence. He was in every material particular a man of high intellectual propensities.

The Nigerian Left which Professor Ogedengbe was eminently part of must come out of its political closet to redeem the country from the clutches of rent seekers and political pimps who have hijacked the post-colonial Nigerian state.

So Suntai is back

•Suntai

frenzy that attended the aircraft crash, Taraba is back in the news and as it was then, for the wrong reasons.

The man wants to take back the reign of government from his deputy, the acting governor, Garba Umar, who had been in charge since the accident. Nothing wrong with that you may say, but a lot is, considering the fact that Governor Danbaba Suntai, on the evidence of the pathetic picture of him being helped out of the aircraft on arrival and his hardly audible two-minuteplus video message to Tarabans last week, is not healthy enough to run the affairs of the state. Anybody saying anything to the contrary is definitely not being honest with the people. And until there is a verifiable and transparent medical assessment of his current situation

any order or action purportedly taken by him stands the risk of being disregarded and thus plunge the state further into more political crises.

Already the acting governor has called on the public to ignore Suntai's dissolution of the executive council and appointment of a new Secretary to the State Government and Chief of Staff in the government house. The divided state House of Assembly had equally called on Garba Umar to continue as acting governor and urged Suntai to return to his hospital bed in the United States for proper treatment, promising him a return to his seat once he is medically fit to discharge his duties. The man or rather those around him whose political and economic survival depends on his seemingly remaining in charge, is not ready to give in and is digging deep to consolidate his hold on power even at the detriment of Taraba state. This is sad.

Already the uncertainty this has created is beginning to get to the government's bankers some of whom are reportedly rejecting transactions done by the acting governor. Though the government has denied this, the impression out there is that of a divided administration and this does not bode well for the state especially with the countdown to the 2015 general elections drawing closer. And that seems to be the

Sola Ogedengbe: A man for all seasons

By Chijioke Uwasomba Because of his rounded intellectual pedigree, most people (including this writer) did not know that he was in the engineering discipline. For years, until I know him closely, I had thought that he was in the Social Sciences. He wrote and engaged in discourses which gave him off as a man of letters, and possibly one who should have been a Professor of Literature. There is no doubt, as I later found out, that he read a lot of literary works even as a student and teacher of Engineering Sciences.

Interestingly, it should be noted that the late Ogedengbe started his career at Ife in the Department of Agricultural Engineering where he taught courses like Hydraulics, Hydrology, Water Resources Management, Technical Report Writing, Structural Analysis and other Civil Engineering-related courses. It was therefore not surprising that given his academic exposure that he could single-handedly establish the Department of Civil Engineering in the University which has produced a lot of engineers who have and are contributing to the development of our country. And for Ogedengbe, the icing on the cake came when by a letter dated May 6, from the University Registrar, he was told of his appointment as Emeritus Professor in recognition of his sterling academic accomplishments as a scholar worthy of emulation.

The late Ogedengbe was a strong voice on the floor of ASUU (the union of academics that has since 1978 been a thorn in the flesh of successive irresponsible governments in Nigeria). Very sequenced in

his debates on the floor of ASUU and the Senate of the University, no wonder he was appointed into many committees of both the Union and the University. Usually, his thoughts and their vocalisations were anchored on logic and reasoned anecdotes making him an admirably respected figure within the university system. In those days of insensate military dictatorship of various stripes accompanied by a creeping authoritarian flavour even in the universities, the late Ogedengbe and the likes of Eni Akigboungbe, Olorode, Idowu Awopetu, Dipo Fashina, Segun Osoba, ‘Layi Ogunkoya, Otas Ukponmwan, Kayode Adetugbo, Kola Torinmiro and others, too numerous to mention, provided the intellectual and ideological templates for the union in particular and the university in general with their encyclopedic knowledge. The tragedy of our country today is that men and women of Ogedengbe’s stature are leaving the scene with their unimpeachable values while those of lower values with their crass ignorance and polluted mindsets are taking over the affairs of our country. The country is indeed at the cross roads and at its worst!

An old friend of the late Ogedengbe gave a vivid account of their relationship at the Iowa University of Science and Technology, in the United States of America in 1967 where they had gone for postgraduate studies, hinting of Ogedengbe’s virtues of erudition and patriotic excellence. It is not unlikely that what shaped Ogedengbe’s consciousness and outlook was his socialist inclination which prepared him for a life of conscientiousness. This, as noted earlier on rubbed off on the platforms and

cause of the impasse in Taraba state.

With a dominant Christian population, Taraba has, not surprisingly, been producing a Christian as governor since the return of democracy in 1999 and the trend which has been designed to continue in 2015 now seems to be threatened except Suntai remains in charge. There is the fear that with Umar in charge in the run up to the 2015 polls, the role may be reversed and a Muslim in the saddle. This, to those fanning the embers of religious division in the state will be against their selfish interest. This is the crux of the matter and the main reason the cabal behind Suntai would rather have on the governor's seat rather than his deputy, even when not fit.

The question is where and how is the interest of the generality of the people of Taraba being served under this cold calculation of these grabbers of power? Does it really make any different whether a Muslim or Christian is in power in Taraba or any other state in Nigeria?

What difference would it make if the Nigerian President were to be a Christian or Muslim? This was the religious card being played in Kaduna state before until we had late Governor Yakowa, a Christian and the heavens did not fall.

It is about time we outgrow this kind of stupid sentiments and elect those who would serve the best interest of the people. Governor Suntai, if he loves himself and his constituents should not succumb to pressures from this cabal whose only interest is what they can profit from his governorship. He should without delay submit himself to a verifiable medical examination to determine the true state of his health. The Nigerian Medical Association has offered to do this for him. If he is not fit enough to rule, as it seems obvious, then he should not force himself on Taraba. units that he had had the opportunity of creating and leading. It is pathetic that this icon of truth and integrity of the highest order has passed on at a time in our national life when many members of the Nigerian Left are retreating and cocooning themselves thereby creating an undeserved space for the rampaging neo-liberal order with its theology of the market and everready theologians who are holding away.

The Left cannot be coy in telling whoever that cares to listen that the only alternative for humanity is the socialist mode of economic production. Any other economic process and arrangement, as Kagaslitsky has brilliantly articulated, will amount to barbarism.

The Nigerian Left which Professor Ogedengbe was eminently part of must come out of its political closet to redeem the country from the clutches of rent seekers and political pimps who have hijacked the post-colonial Nigerian state. Partisan politics has become a profession to a good number of people who by every definition and consideration could not have had the opportunity of enjoying political power if things were properly arranged. It is intriguing that it is these otherwise less gifted and fourth-rated individuals that have been allowed to determine the fate of millions of Nigerians. No wonder our sensibilities are routinely assaulted by the indiscretions of these elements who have nothing useful to offer other than their selfserving proclivities.

There must be a new way of doing things in Nigeria and the Left must be at the vanguard of the process for the attainment of a new Nigeria. It is by attaining the goals, ideals and values for which Ogedengbe cherished and lived for that all his creative and patriotic exertions would not have been in vain. Adieu brother and bonhomorous comrade.

• Uwasomba is of the Department of English, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife.

INSIDE

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2013

Website: http://www.thenationonlineng.com

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Abuja’s haven for the rich - Page 27

Metro taxis: Loved and hated in equal measure Association to build 100,000 houses

- Page 28

Perform or get the boot

- Page 40

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BUJA residents have accepted the prohibition of mini-buses in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and moved on. What is taking the place of the buses, however, has not filled the city with wholesale joy.

The new yellow-and-blue metro taxis represent different things to different people. Some love them.

Others loathe them.

The cars, manufactured by one of the leading brands, Chevrolet, were initially a welcome development to all, until some commercial drivers began to grumble, despite their classic, new and appealing features.

Commuters’ grumbling subsided as the taxis, whether painted or not, were preferred to the ‘long buses.’

Introduced about two months after the mini-buses were stopped from plying the routes of Abuja, the middle class wholly gave the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) a pass mark. This could be attributed to its newness and factory-fitted air conditioning system, among other features.

High capacity buses are in short supply, causing commuters to wait endlessly at bus stops. The introduction of the cabs was a relief to them.

Few operators often take advantage of the situation by carrying four passengers at the rear seat with another passenger at the front. Perhaps, the drivers would have occupied the front seat with two passengers but for the fear of law enforcement agencies; espe-

From Olugbenga Adanikin

cially officers of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).

Motorists in the territory would have keyed to this new initiative but for the pains which seem more than its gains. The seemingly exorbitant cost of acquiring a unit of such car is another disturbing factor.

The new taxes launched by the Federal Government are painted green and yellow, with Sure-P and other identification numbers emblazoned on them.

Abuja Review gathered that each of the cabs costs N2.6 million on hire purchase basis. Monthly return is N64,000. The payment is a continuous one until the total cost is defrayed. While some frowned at the cost and limited time frame for the refund, others saw it as a rare opportunity.

In a chat with one of the operators, it was revealed that applicants for the cabs were expected to make

initial payment of N130, 000 to meet the basic requirement.

Apart from the monthly installment, another condition required to purchase the blue-andyellow Chevrolet car is that, the buyer provides a guarantor who is of level 14 in the public service.

According to one of the cab operators who spoke to Abuja Review in confidence, the FCTA has the absolute right to withhold papers of the car until full payment is made. In situations where payment is not made within the stipulated time, the FCTA offers an additional grace of two weeks before appropriate sanction will be taken.

“We are trying our best to make sure that we meet up with the payment. But we know it is not easy.

Not that government will collect the car back; it will give like two weeks after the deadline before it takes action.”

Another operator, Mr. Joshua said that the newness of the car presents any serious-minded indi-

Each of the cabs costs N2.6 million on hire purchase basis. Monthly return is N64,000. The payment is a continuous one until the total cost is defrayed. While some frowned at the cost and limited time-frame for the refund, others saw it as a rare opportunity

vidual the opportunity to refund the cost of purchase and make more profit within two years. He stated that he borrowed the car from a friend a day before our correspondent met him. He said he drove a customer to the airport and made double profit of what he would have made if it were to be his Mazda taxi car.

According to him, passengers are naturally attracted to the car because of its newness and they are always willing to pay more.

He further observed that its airconditioning feature attracts passengers.

But Mr. Lamidi Alebiosu had a different view. As for him, the product is not best for commercial purpose and may not stand the test of time. Except the car is driven by the individual who run the business, it may develop fault virtually on a weekly basis.

He narrated recent records of accidents the cars had shortly after it was introduced. According to him, the result has been a total write-off.

Alebiosu said: “The cars are neat, no doubt. But how can we use that kind of car for commercial purpose? The car is not strong! Today, two of those cars got accident. If you see the extent of damage on the cars, you will believe that N2.6 million is not worth the price of these cars?”

It was gathered that the cars were released to buyers with in•Continued on page 26

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2013

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ABUJA REVIEW

Metro taxis: Loved and hated •Continued from Page 25 built trackers to monitor their movements for security and safety reasons. Operations of the taxi, according to some of the operators, are also restricted to the FCT. “Any form of operation outside the territory will automatically lock the car. This will help protect such cars against car theft and other forms of illegal usage.”

Ugor, a driver, who acquired his car two days earlier, said it is the expectations of operators that they will suffer less attack from police.

“As it is now, this car has some advantages. One of it is that police would not impound any of them. The worst they would do is to ask you to ‘move your car,” he said.

Investigation has shown that, apart from their costs, the cars are not sufficient enough to meet demands of commuters.

A staff of the Abuja Environmen-

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HE, Board of Directors of the International Facility Management Association (IFMA), Mr. Collins Osayamwen, has said that due to lack of awareness on the essence of facility management in the country, the association has decided to use the Abuja National Stadium as a pilot project for facility management.

Speaking with Abuja Review, Osayamwen said: “To introduce the concept of this profession is capital intensive. What we are asking for is the opportunity to continue to showcase the proposition of facility management. If we can get a public facility to demonstrate what facility management can do for a country, it will go a long way to achieving what we have been looking forward to.

“For instance, the challenge we have given ourselves is give us the National Stadium and see what we can turn it into.”

On how his association would achieve this, Osayamwen said it could be through a public-private partnership, stressing that the group was still planning the model after a house in Australia.

He noted that the plan of the facility managers is to ensure that they play their role in order to achieve the purpose of designing it.

Osayamwen, however, revealed

tal Protection Board (AEPB) who expressed an interest to acquire the car observed that the cars were insufficient, adding that those available are less than 300.

However, Abuja Review gathered that all taxi drivers have been mandated to adhere to the FCTA new transport policy, failure of which attracts stopping the car from operating.

The deadline, according to the source, will be October 2013. “It is compulsory because, by October, government will ban these taxis painted in green-and-white from plying the roads.”

However, if the administration must ensure affordability and sustainability of the new taxi policy, there is need to simplify the processes, subsidise procurement of spare parts of the cars and reduce the cost to encourage the people to purchase more of the cabs in order to address transport challenges in the capital city.

• Traffic jam in Abuja

Association stresses better facility management From John Ofikhenua

that the association is planning to present a bill on the enactment of facility management legislation.

He further said that plans are underway for the association to approach the Presidency for the possibility of presenting the bill as an executive bill since the procurement process in most organisations is weak.

The law, he said, is targeted at addressing the lack of regular turn around maintenance of public facilities in Nigeria.

He said: “We need to conduct a

proper research, do our homework very well and ensure that we get the right processes in place and present them to the executive to ensure that they present it to the National Assembly as an executive bill. We are calling on government to assist in helping to get the bill passed so that we can have it as a profession in order to have a voice.

The only way we can have a voice is to have the legislation.”

Osayamwen said facility managers also help in reducing cost as most organisations’ procurement processes are deficient.

His words: “When we succeed in

When we succeed in implementing facility management in all the organisations, they will be able to save billions of dollars because we are losing a lot from procurement process.

We are losing a lot from not managing our facilities well. With time, the facilities fail while we lose a lot of money in the process

•The Minister of State for Federal Capital Territory, Oloye Olajumoke Akinjide (right) with the Representative of Pope Benedict XVI to Nigeria, Papal Nunico, Archibishop Augustine Kaujja, at a meeting in Abuja

implementing facility management in all the organisations, they will be able to save billions of dollars because we are losing a lot from procurement process. We are losing a lot from not managing our facilities well. With time, the facilities fail while we lose a lot of money in the process.”

The director, therefore, stated that IFMA plans to empower facility managers worldwide to perform their legitimate roles.

He noted that the association started in America 30 years ago, adding that facilities over there exist as commissioned because they are efficiently managed.

He further said the position of a facility manager is non-existent in most organisations in Nigeria; regretting that they are respected in advanced countries.

According to him, the facilities of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) are becoming more decent than in the past. This he attributed to the apex bank’s ability to establish a department of facility management.

On why he was appointed the

first board director of the association from Africa, he said that: “I have contributed immensely in making the value of facility management visible in Africa. My appointment into the board will make that visible also. IFMAN wants to begin to look at elevating the profile of facility managers around the world. And getting me on the board will certainly make that a reality.

“My greatest achievement in IFMA has been service. I have been asked to serve in the capacity as the President of the chapter in Abuja.

And I was also instrumental to the establishment of the Accra chapter of IFMA. On what the association does, he said: “We are facility managers. The International Facility Management Association’s objective is to empower facility managers worldwide. Facility managers are responsible for managing the built environment. When we talk about the built environment, we mean from airport to zoos and anything in between.”

NGOs provide free medicare

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non-governmental organisation in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Shekwoyeyedu Foundation in collaboration with the Bridge of Life Mission, amongst others, has offered free medical services to the people of Bwari Area Council.

The two-day programme attracted a large number of people with various ailments, within and around the area seek-ing treatment.

Speaking to newsmen at the occasion, the coordinator of Shekwoyeyedu Foundation, who is also the wife of the council chairman, Mrs. Tamar Peter Ushafa, said that the programme was designed to treat over 1000 people in the area free of charge.

Mrs. Ushafa noted that the programme was to assist indigent people who cannot afford to treat themselves.

She expressed worries that sometimes people die in the rural areas due to minor sickness that can be treated while calling on other NGOs and well-to-doNigerians to render assistance to the less-privileged in the society so that Nigeria can be a better place for all to live.

From Bukola Amusann

According to her, most of the doctors who participated in the programme did so voluntarily, adding that the NGO has empowered about 700 women since its inception. She said that their focus is to make life better for the poor in the society.

Country Director of Bridge of Life Mission, the major collaborator of the programme, Prof Boreen Babo said that they have travelled to over three countries rendering medical services to people, adding that they have also travelled to 19 states since they came to Nigeria.

According to her, Bridge of Life Mission is a non-governmental organisation based in Benin City and aimed at giving free health services to the vulnerable in the society.

One of the beneficiaries, Mrs. Chidi Nwankwo, said that she was treated after all the necessary tests were conducted on her, saying that the treatment was free.

She thanked the organisers of the programme for the assistance rendered to the people of the area, praying that God will bless them.

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2013

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ABUJA REVIEW

Abuja’s haven for the rich

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DEMOLA Adetokunbo Crescent is in Wuse II in Abuja. Wuse II is one of the h igh-brow areas in the FCT and home to the hospitality industry, malls, plazas and hotels. Following its centrality, the popular street has become the home of relaxation for the rich and mighty who inhabit Abuja districts like Maitama, Asokoro, Central Business District (CBD) and Wuse, among others.

Apart from several banks that have their branches on the street, the crescent is home to several shopping malls and supermarkets like the popular Amingo Supermarket (now temporarily shut), Exclusive Supermarket, AP Plaza which is home to several electronic appliances marketing companies, household goods and offices, Suya and relaxation spots like Cubana, Barbedos Lounge and Restaurant, and hotels like Rockview and New Chelsea.

While the average Abuja residents frequent gardens, especially when they need to give their family a treat, clubs and lounges are the exclusive preserve of the nouveau-riche in town to exhibit class.

Among the upscale clientele are political office holders, business executives and top civil and public servants.

Checks by Abuja Review revealed that the street is busier at night than at day time. It can be safely said that it is a street where there is no ‘night’ going by the number of clubs and lounges that dot the area. Clubbing and relaxation are daily affairs on this crescent.

It was further discovered that as a result of the large concentration of relaxation centres in the area, competition among the various operators has become intense.

They now employ ingenious means in their scramble for customers.

The question is: Why have those

•Barbados Lounge From Sanni Onogu and Gbenga Omokhunu

in the hospitality industry chosen to pitch their tents along a major street in the heart of Abuja? While most club owners in the area confirmed that business is good, others attributed the attraction in the area to adequate security.

The Executive Director, Administration and Finance of Barbados Lounge and Restaurant, Tessy Nwoke, gave Abuja Review an insight into what makes Ademola Adetokunbo Crescent unique.

She disclosed that the upscale clientele that patronise the various clubs in the vicinity is the reason d’être for the growing number of relaxation spots in the area.

Barbados, which now operates from the former Silver Spoon lounge, enjoys the patronage of such rich clientele.

“I think Adetokubo Ademola Crescent is a prime area because we have so many other clubs here,” Nwoke said.

She, however, said that the new owners of the defunct Silver Spoon are not perturbed about

the competition occasioned by the litany of drinking and relaxation spots in and around the street.

“We have our concept which is to make this place one of the best lounges in Abuja. We chose here not because it is in the heart of

Abuja and close to where the high and mighty lives. This place is meant for everybody. We are not looking at any category of persons because we don’t know who will walk here and be our best customer,” Nwoke added.

We have our concept which is to make this place one of the best lounges in Abuja.

We chose here not because it is in the heart of Abuja and close to where the high and mighty live. This place is meant for everybody. We are not looking at any category of persons because we don’t know who will walk in here and be our best customer

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The upscale clientele that frequent the area has made it a haven of sorts, she noted, adding that the rich and powerful in Abuja like governors, ministers, directors, civil servants, private business executives and youths who have achieved a lot in their careers, find the place irresistible.

Nwoke said: “Notwithstanding, we have the kind of clientele that we want to come in here.

We don’t want just anybody. But everybody is welcome. We have our rules and regulations. You come in here, sit down and have your drink. If you want to dance you dance. You have your food quietly. We don’t like people who want to come here to make noise. We want to have an •Continued on Page 40

FCTA to allocate land for EU staff estate

HE Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Senator Bala Mohammed has promised to allocate a plot of land for the building of the European Union (EU) staff housing estate.

•From left: Kaduna State Governor Dr. Mukhtar Ramalan Yero; Chairman, National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Muhammed Bello, and Vice President Namadi Sambo during the Amirul Hajj Report of the 2012 Hajj Operations at the Presidential Villa, Abuja

From Gbenga Omokhunu and Grace Obike

The minister made the promise while receiving the outgoing European Union Ambassador to Nigeria and West Africa, Dr. David McRae who paid him a visit.

Senator Mohammed further said that the housing estate, when completed, would go a long in alleviating the housing deficit in the Federal Capital Territory and encourage the staff of the organisation to give in their best.

The minister thanked the outgoing envoy for his personal interest in Nigeria’s development efforts and, particularly the Federal Capital Territory.

According to him, that personal interest has helped in opening up new frontiers and partnership between Nigeria and the 28 Nations that make up the European Union.

He said that the purposeful leadership of the outgoing Ambassador has impacted positively on the country; stressing that it also fostered the cordial relationship between Nigeria and the European Union.

Senator Mohammed praised McRae for his efforts to uplift the living standard of the common man in Nigeria, especially his visits to all the nook and cranny of the country.

Speaking earlier, Dr. McRae stated that he was in the FCTA to bid farewell to the FCT Minister and to thank him for his co-operation with the European Union while he was serving in Nigeria.

Dr. McRae remarked that he recently visited Kano and Jigawa states and was impressed to see everybody going about his or her normal businesses despite the security challenges in those areas.

He said that the new EU Ambassador to Nigeria would be reporting to Nigeria in two weeks. He therefore pleaded with the minister to extent his usual co-operation to him in order to further the existing relationship and partnership between Nigeria and the EU. Dr. McRae also called on the minister to help allocate a plot of land for the EU to build staff housing estates for Nigerians working for the organisation.

That personal interest has helped in opening up new frontiers and partnerships between Nigeria and the 28 nations that make up the European Union…The purposeful leadership of the outgoing Ambassador has impacted positively on the country…It also fostered the cordial relationship between Nigeria and the EU

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THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2013

ABUJA REVIEW

Association to build 100,000 houses

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N partnership with a Canadian firm, the Road Transport Employers’ Association of Nigeria (RTEAN) will soon start building 100,000 houses in Abuja.

Speaking after the National Executive Council meeting in Abuja, the President of the association, Alhaji Musa Isiwele Shehu, said plans are underway for all members of the association to benefit from the programme.

He said the projection of the RTEAN is for the members to repay the money in the next 10 years.

The foreign contractor, he said, was prepared to display a projector of the plan soon after the NEC meeting.

“Some of the foreign partners are here. They are going to show the projector to members.

A form has been given to us to fill. Every member will fill it and decide the type of house he wants,” he said.

Continuing, Shehu said: “Everybody knows the cost of houses here but by the grace of God, we will break that yoke.”

The National President also said the motive is to assist the Federal Government in the transformation of the housing sector since government alone should not be left to handle all projects.

He said that following his promises, some of the highlights

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•A section of a housing estate in the city From John Ofikhenua and Chioma Onyia

of the meeting were to fashion out modalities for the development of the association’s national secretariat in Abuja.

According to him, the association has commenced the repayment of the 22 vehicles it acquired through the Subsidy Reinvestment Empowerment Programme (SURE- P).

On the SURE-P he said the as-

sociation received 22 vehicles from the scheme a month ago. According to him, 160 buses have been launched so far under the programme.

Although he did not state how much has been repaid, Shehu said the RTEAN got the buses in July and started repayment last month.

The National President also said the NEC advised members of the association to patiently wait for the next batch of the ve-

NGO urges youths to be self-reliant

HE Organisation for Truthful Rebirth (OTR), a non-governmental organisation (NGO), has advised youths to be self-reliant in order to reduce dependency on government.

The National Coordinator of the group Mr. Eben Akinyemi gave the advice while briefing newsmen in Abuja on the state of the nation.

From Gbenga Omokhunu

Akinyemi decried a situation in which people, mostly youths, depend on people in power and the government for employment and income.

He said the youth could achieve self reliance through value orientation, adding that the habit of living within their means would earn them dignity

before the elite.

Akinyemi also argued that corruption was not the major cause of underdevelopment in the country as believed by many people. He rather blamed the development on lack of good ideas that could bring the desired development in the country.

His words: “Our youths need

• From left: Mukhtari Shitu of USAID; Hon Ismaila Gadaka; Josef Ansorge of P/DG; Chairman, House of Reps Committee on Human Rights, Beni Lar; Ms Mino Nadiradze, P/DG Office Director, Hon Abdulsalam Adamu and Andrew Michels of Peace and Democratic Governance, USAID after a meeting at the National Assembly Abuja

•

hicles.

He added: “For those who are complaining, I have told them to give them something to do at the state and chapel levels until the vehicles come.”

The advice, according to him, is to restrain any of the members from any criminal activity as a result of joblessness.

He said for his members to vote any political party of their choice in the next general elections, the association has advised them to

to be remodeled to attain greatness in all aspects of life.

“We need more ideas than money to be able to develop Nigeria, because the developed world used sound ideas and not money to be where they are.

“To me, corruption is only part of our problems. It is not our total problem.’’

The OTR National Coordinator also cautioned the elite against selfishness and accumulation of the country’s resources, adding that the act of looting at the expense of youth empowerment would turn against them in the near future.

He said: “The risk of developing only oneself is inimical to his existence because when others are not empowered, all asset acquired by the wealthy becomes vulnerable and could be destroyed by the idle ones.”

Akinyemi, however, insisted that there were some good Ni-

register for the election, adding that members must shun thuggery during elections.

“We don’t want our members to be used as thugs. We are not thugs. We are transporters. We are mature and disciplined people,” he said.

The National President noted that the association will organise a three-day enlightenment campaign and seminar for all members on the electoral process. gerians who have good vision for the country.

“I still believe that there are some good people in this country; we should not continue to think that every Nigerian is bad.

“We have good ones that still think well about the future of this country. Our NGO is out to create talent warehouse where these talents can be harnessed for a better Nigeria. ORT will continue to preach the gospel of a new Nigeria, where citizens will be judged on the strength of their character and not on the strength of their wealth,” he said.

OTR is a new NGO which has the objective of inculcating good moral values that will be translated into a better Nigeria where things are properly done.

The NGO is to achieve its aims through promoting societal development through funding of immediate and affordable community needs.

We need more ideas than money to be able to develop Nigeria, because the developed world used sound ideas and not money to be where they are…To me, corruption is only part of our problems…The risk of developing only oneself is inimical to one’s existence because when others are not empowered, all assets acquired by the wealthy become vulnerable

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TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2013

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Our justice system has created such widespread cynicism that it is now publicly canvassed that our criminal justice where the well-heeled are involved has been outsourced; that the big among us can only be successfully brought to justice beyond our shores. This situation is certainly not edifying and should concern the legal profession.

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E-mail:- law@thenationonlineng.net

See page 36

INSIDE: ICPC introduces Law Report to aid trial

-Page 32

‘How to achieve peace in Nigeria’

-Page 33

How to fight terrorism, by commission’s chief

•Suntai on arrival being assisted to come down from the plane

-Page 34

NBA seeks solution to nation’s challenges -Page 36

Governor Danbaba Suntai of Taraba State returned last week, 10 months after he was flown abroad for medicare after his air crash on October 25. He is in Jalingo, amid controversy over his fitness to stir the ship of the state. A few days after he returned, Suntai, purportedly, forwarded a letter to the state House of Assembly indicating his readiness to resume duty as governor. Since then, the state has been in a political logjam. What then is the way out for the state? ADEBISI ONANUGA writes

Address the Assembly or go back for medication, lawyers tell Suntai

Ministry holds conference on restorative justice

The Issue:

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‘Courts can formulate issues for parties where justice demands’ -Page 38

T is 10 days since the return of Taraba State Gov ernor Danbaba Suntai. Contrary to expecta tions, the situation in the state is getting worrisome by the day. The House of Assembly has asked Suntai to go back to the United States to continue with his treatment until he is fit to take over his office as governor. The Speaker, Haruna Tsokwa, said the Deputy Governor, Alhaji Garba Umar, should continue to act until the governor is fit.

Suntai arrived in Nigeria two Sundays ago from Sea View Hospital Rehabilitation Centre and Home, New York, where he had been recuperating, having been moved there from the German hospital he was flown to after the multiple injuries he received in the October 25, 2012 plane crash at Yola Airport. He spent four months in the New York hospital. He had earlier spent about six months in the German Hospital,

bringing his stay outside the country for medical treatment to 10 months.

The governor, a pilot, flew the ill-fated Cessna 208. With him in the aircraft were his Aide de Camp (ADC), Iliya Dasat, Chief Detail, Joel Danladi and Chief Security Officer (CSO), Tino Dangana, all of whom have recovered from the injuries sustained in the crash and returned to the country. While in Germany, it was reported that the governor had brain-damage from the severe injuries he sustained in the head in the crash. It was reported then that Suntai may not be able to function effectively again as governor because it would take some time for him to fully recover and return to the country. The report generated a lot of controversy but the state government refuted it and insisted that Suntai was not brain-damaged. He was actually responding positively and very fast to treatment, it said.

The governor arrived in the country by a chartered aircraft, a Gulf Stream Jet belonging to Shell Air. He was assisted to disembark from the plane by three men and later driven straight from the tarmac to the VIP lounge of the Yola International Airport.

None of the reporters who thronged the airport, anxious for a good interview with him, was allowed access to him. Suntai, from his picture taken at the airport on the day of arrival and published in the dailies, looked frail and was expressionless contrary to the mood and excitement that greeted his arrival. The pictures in the dailies showed him with a raised hand as if waving but reports said he was not really doing that.

• Continued on page 30

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2013

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LAW COVER CONT’D Town’s head in prison custody

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•Akinjide

•Falana

•Agbaje

‘Address the Assembly’ •Continued from page 29

Two days after his arrival, Suntai was reported to have transmitted a letter to the Taraba State House of Assembly intimating them of his desire to resume duty.

In reply, the assembly members asked him to appear before it to enable them decide on his request. Instead of accepting the invitation of the state assembly, the governor in a broadcast to the state, announced the dissolution of the state executive council and appointed a former Commissioner for Justice, Timothy Katap as new Secretary to the State Government (SSG) and Alhaji Aminu Jika as Chief of Staff, Government House.

From the day he was involved in the plane crash on October 25 last year, up till the time he arrived the country and to date, Governor Suntai has been enmeshed in one controversy or the other, which continues to put the state in a political logjam.

Barely 24 hours after Suntai addressed the people of the state through a recorded video that lasted less than three minutes, the state assembly advised the governor to return to US hospital for further treatment until he is fit and proper to govern the state.

The speaker, Haruna Tsokwa and 15 other legislators, asked the Deputy Governor to continue in office as governor in acting capacity. The Majority leader, Joseph Albasu, however opposed the decision saying the governor was fit to take over his office.

Albasu said that they saw the governor in New york and had conversation with him upon his return and that he is sound enough to resume work. Albasu said the governor has fulfilled the provision of the constitution, having written the house to express his desire to resume work. To him, the governor does not have to address the house to determine his fitness as this isunconstitutional.

But the speaker, Haruna Tsokwa insisted that Suntai must appear on the floor of the house and speak to the law makers. In the alternative, some principal officers must go to talk to him. The Coalition of Taraba Youth Movement in Jalingo also want the governor to address the house. “The state is in a state of confusion because the people do not know what to believe”, they said. The speaker alleged that Suntai’s wife, Hauwa, blocked some officials that made an initial attempt to see him. He told journalists that from the manner the governor spoke, when they were finally allowed to see him by his aides who ini-

‘What is the position of the constitution on the manner of how an ailing governor should come back to duty? Who determines the fitness of a governor to resume duty? What is the way forward them in Taraba?

These are the questions begging for answers.’ tially rebuffed them, they doubted if he actually wrote the letter in which the governor purportedly wrote and indicated his desire to resume work. They doubted if the signature on the letter was actually that of Suntai. In a statement, the 15 lawmakers who have taken a position on the matter, said that the governor is not fit and should go back for recuperation in New York. The statement read in part, “ We the undersigned members of the state assembly have unanimously resolved in our meeting that the deputy governnor, upon whom power was earlier transmitted by the state house of assembly still remains the acting governor of Taraba state and he will continue until such a time the governor is capable of administering the state”, they stated.

The legislators include Deputy speaker, Tanko Maikafi; Chief Whip, Mohammed Gwampo, Deputy Minorty leader, Josiah Kente. Others are Deputy Chief Whip, Mohammed Umar, Minorty whip, Yahya Abdulrahman, Iratsi Daki, Rashida Abdullahi, Aminu Umar, Emmanuel Dame, Jonathan Bonzema, Dr. Abubakar Jugulde, Hamman Abdullahi, Abdulkarim Mohammed and Edward Baraya.

But Emmanue Bello, a former Commissioner for Information and an aide to Suntai, said the action of the lawmakers was null and void and a figment of their imagination stressing that the lawmakers do not have the constitutional power to do what they did. “So what they have done is unconstitutional”. To him, “only medical experts can determine the state of health of a person. He said Suntai read, writes and sign documents.

Bello questioned the criteria used by the lawmakers in arriving at their decision on whether or not the governor is fit for office as they are not medical experts.

He said that as long as the law makers do not subject Suntai to medical checks, they are not in position to say he was not fit to govern the state.

But based on the decision of the state assembly, the deputy gover-

nor, Garba Umar has continued in office by announcing to the people of the state to disregard the dissolution of the executive

by Suntai.

The return of the governor of Taraba after 10 months that he has been away for medical treatment and his desire to assume office and govern the state has raised a lot of fundamental and constitutional issues.

Some believe the provision of the constitution should guide the development in the state, they likened the situation to what Governor Sullivan Chime of Enugu State did when he came back from overseas where he had gone to receive treatment. He wrote the house of his readiness to resume work in line with the constitution. But some pundits differ, they asked whether it would be appropriate to rigidly apply the constitution given the present state of the governor. To this latter group, the situation in Taraba was likened to what Nigeria went through when the late President Yar’ Adua was brought back to the country and the governance of the country was being done by proxy. This group believed that the people of Taraba state should not be subjected to that kind of experience.

In all of this, what is the position of the constitution on the manner of how an ailing governor should come back to duty?

Who determines the fitness of a governor to resume duty? What is the way forward in Taraba?

These are the questions begging for answers.

Lawyers’ reaction: Constitutional lawyers who are versed in the the law are united on the controversy surrounding the state of health of the governor and his desire to return to office and other issues.

The umbrella body of Lawyers in the country, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) posited that the best thing is for Governor Suntai to address the House of Assembly if he is indeed healthy enough to resume duties.

The NBA, through its President, Okey Wali (SAN), said the controversy over the governor’s health status was capable of creating constitutional and political crisis in the state. He said reports that there are “pseudo-governors” in Taraba should be cleared once and for all to restore the people’s faith in governance.

Activist-lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) said a “political cabal” may have hijacked governance in Taraba State. He alleged that ailing Governor Danbaba Suntai could not have written the letter sent to the House of Assembly on

HE Baale of Kirikiri town, Lagos Chief Waheed Sunmonu, 81, tasted the bitter side of the law last weekend as he was remanded in prison custody on the order of an Apapa magistrate court.

The Octogenarian had to spend the weekend in Kirikiri prison custody having failed to meet the bail conditions set by the trial magistrate, Mrs. K.O. Shonubi.

Chief Sunmonu and four others had been arraigned by the police for allegedly threatening to kill one Babatunde Babalola .

Other defendants in the suit are Chief Oseni Adewale, 77 years; Kayode Ewarawon, 53 years; Julius Ajanlekoko, 69m years and Adewale ijuaogbomo, 50 years.

The police had preferred a fivecount charge against the defendants.

The first count stated that the five defendants “sometimes in 2013, at Karimu Street, Kirikiri, Lagos did threatened to kill one Babatunde Babalola”.

The police alleged that the third defendant, Julius Ajanlekoko and one other at large, on the same day, time and place assaulted Babatunde Babalola by strangling his neck.

Ajanlekoko and another at large were further alleged to have

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By Adebisi Onanuga

damaged one Canon Camera valued at N175,000 property of one Mustapha fatai.

The police further alleged that the fifth defendant. Adewale Ijaogbomo had on December 19, 2012 at Doctor Lucas Memorial College, Kirikiri town, Lagos assaulted Babatunde Babalola by pointing finger at his face.In addition, it was alleged that the five defendants sometimes in 2013 at Kirikiri town, did conduct themselves in a manner likely to cause breach of peace by granting press interview to disparage the person of Babatunde Babalola.

The police said the offences committed are punishable under sections 56. 171, 348 and 166(d) of the L:agos State Criminal Law 2011.

All the five defendants pleaded not guilty to the five count charge preferred against them by the police.

The trial magistrate, Mrs. Shonubi set bail conditions at N500,000 or two sureties in the like sum for each of the five defendants.

The magistrate excluded teachers from the sureties who must be civil servants onn grade level 10 and above.

She, thereafter, adjourned the matter to September 20.

Oke-Agbo land tussle verdict Sept. 26

USTICE Adeniyi Onigbanjo of a Lagos High Court, Ikeja, will, on September 26,deliver judgment on the ownership of parcels of land known as OkeAgbo Village in Ikorodu.

The land has been a subject of litigation between two families, the Adeboyejo Olutunsen Descendants’ family of Oke-Agbo and Oteshimile family of Oke-Agbo since 2005.

Chief Bisiriyu Ajano, Chief Jimoh Ekundayo Ashafa, Chief Adetunji Adesanya, Jimoh Ibraimoh and Ganiu Ogunja, who are claimants/defendants to counter-claim, had filed the suit for themselves and on behalf of the Adeboyejo Olutunsen family while the defendants/counter claimants are Chief Michael Oretoye, Mureni Fassasi, Kassim Folorunsho Tijani, Sunday A dekoya, Fatai Oyenuga and Segun Bakare for themselves and on behalf of the Oteshimile family.

In the course of the trial that spanned about eight years, the claimants called five witnesses while the defendants called four witnesses.

In their writ of summon, the claimants through their lawyer, A.G. Giwa-Amu, had approach the court seeking three main prayers.

They sought from the court a declaration that all parcels of land known as Oke-Agbo Village, Ikorodu, Lagos,s being situate at Oke-Agbo belongs to their family and that they are entitled to statutory rights of occupancy thereof.

They are also seeking from the court a declaration that any alienation howsoever of all that parcel of land known as Oke-Agbo village or any part thereof by the defendants, their agents, servants privies without the consent and approval of the claimants is null and void.

In addition, they sought an order of perpetual injunction restraining the defendants, their agents, privies, servants and assigns from further trespassing on the parcels of land known as OkeAgbo Village or any part thereof which land is the subject matter of the suit.

The defendants, in their further amended statement of defence filed by their counsel, Abayomi Abisuga, made four main counter-claims against the claimants.

By Adebisi Onanuga

They sought a declaration that the land, particularly delineated on survey plan nu2mber AAT/ LA/078/95 dated August 7, 1995, drawn by one Tunji Adewole, a registered surveyor, on behalf of the claimants/defendants to counter-claim and survey plan number GDS/1055/BIOA-C/ 2005/LA dated April 11, 2005, drawn by J.A.O. Amu, a surveyor, for the defendants/counterclaimants, is the joint inheritance of the descendants of Ayanboyejo family of Oke-Agbo village.

They sought a declaration that the Ayanboyejo family of OkeAgbo village, Ikorodu comprises of three constituent branches, namely: Oteshimile, OgunbefunTunde and Orelaja, the members of which they posited are the descendants of the three children of Ayanboyejo.

The defendants/counter-claimants asked the court for a declaration that they, being the accredited representatives of two of the three constituents branches of Ayanboyejo family of Oke-Agbo, Ikorodu, together with the accredited representatives OgunbefunTunde branch of the family, are the persons entitled to a statutory right of occupancy over the large parcels of land at Oke-Agbo.

They, therefore, asked N1 million only, as cost of the action against the claimants-defendants.

They prayed the court to dismissed the claims of the claimants/defendants to counter claims as lacking in merit and to grant the defendants’ counterclaim with award of cost in their favour.

The defendants, after a review of the evidences made before the court by some of the witnesses of the claimants, filed additional and final address in which they urged the court to reject the evidence of traditional history led by the claimants for being in-conclusive, conflicting and lacking in probative value and to accept their own as cogent and conclusive.

The claimants, in their final address to the counter-claims of the defendants filed by J.N. Igunbor, also urged the court to hold that on the preponderance of evidence, they have established their claims and therefore enter judgement in their favour while the counterclaim of the defendants be dismissed with costs in their favour.

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LAW & SOCIETY

‘Address the Assembly’ •Continued from page 30

his readiness to resume official duties and consequently has petitioned the Attorney-General of the Federation,Mohammed Adoke (SAN), the Inspector-General of Police Mohammed Abubakar and the Speaker, Taraba House, Haruna Tsokwa, urging them to investigate and make public the true state of Suntai’s health.

Falana said his petition to Adoke was based on the Freedom of Information Act. On why he wrote the petitions, Falana said: “Unfortunately, another political cabal has emerged in Taraba State to cause confusion and to deny the ailing governor the opportunity to have himself fully treated.

“He’s been brought back to the country to achieve certain selfish political interests that have further endangered the health of the governor.

“He’s not in a position, from the information at my disposal, to write a letter, to compose a letter, to sign a letter and to send the letter to the House of Assembly of Taraba State.

“Hence, I’ve sent a petition to the Inspector-General of Police to investigate the circumstances surrounding the writing of that letter.

“I have also sent another one to the Speaker of the Taraba State House of Assembly to set up a committee to investigate the health situation of the governor.

“Based on information that the Presidency or the Federal Government has information on the true state of health of the governor, I have sent a petition to the Attorney-General of the Federation under the Freedom of Information Act to make available to me and to the Nigerian people the state of health of the governor so that the citizens of Taraba State can be properly governed in line with the Constitution.”

Falana said if Suntai was healthy enough to resume his duties, he should have met with his deputy and the Speaker for a full briefing on how the state fared in his absence.

“It is very dangerous for us that this culture of impunity has continued unchecked.

“If the governor has recovered, and is prepared to resume his duties since Sunday, he should have appeared in his office, attending to his files; he should have allowed the deputy governor to brief him on how he has run the state since he has been away.

“He should have met with the speaker to find out what the House has done, but to keep him away from all the relevant officials and agencies of state is not acceptable.

“And for some people to be running the show, and signing a letter purportedly signed by the governor should not be tolerated in any decent society, having regard to what this country went through when the late President Umar Yar’Adua was similarly brought back to the country.

“It was the same way the then Vice-President, Dr Goodluck Jonathan was shielded away. The Senate President, the Speaker of the House – all of them were not allowed to even visit President Yar’Adua. And it’s been done now in Taraba State.

“The relevant officials that should invoke the Constitutional provisions are not allowed access to the governor. It should not be

tolerated”, he added.

Lagos lawyer activist, Ikechukwu Ikeji noted that there are genuine concerns about the ailing governor’s real state of health. There were also doubts that the said letter of resumption from Suntai did not emanate from him in his truly conscious self, with members of the House insinuating that the governor does not have the presence of mind and body to have written the letter and that it is a proxy who wrote it.

“The fear is that the governor may be governing through proxies and this in itself is unknown to the Constitution. A tidier line of action would have been that Governor Suntai’s aides make public the doctor’s report declaring him fit to do his work. “Permanent incapacity does not mean permanency of the condition but inability to work. In my view, the Suntai I have seen on television is unable to function as governor both mentally and physically. He is frail, unstable and has difficulty of speech. It is most unfair for people around him to force governance on him when he should be resting and recuperating. This is my quarrel with the situation. The point has to be made that the ‘’state of health’’ of our elected officials should be public information,” he said.

Ikeji said if the intention of asking Governor Suntai to address them is to approve his resuming to his position, the Assembly does not have such power under the Constitution. But in terms of appropriateness, I submit that the Assembly is right in asking him to address them because there is genuine concern that he is not fit to resume.

“What we see happening is governing by proxy and this is not envisaged by the Constitution.

Governor Suntai should continue with his recuperation and allow the Deputy Governor to continue acting until he is fully fit to face the exertions of daily governance and meetings required of the office. Whenever he is fully fit, he can simply take over his position without fuss from any quarter. The Acting Governor, at least from the surface, has shown that he is not unduly desperate to become substantive Governor. If he had such ambition in an inordinate manner, he had the power all this while to have dissolved the executive council, rightly or wrongly, and appointed his own people who would then easily come under Section 189 of the Constitution as amended to declare Suntai permanently incapacitated to function as Governor and thereby kickstart the process of medical examination by a panel of five experienced medical practitioners to determine the true state of health of Suntai,” he added.

•Ikeji

•Suntai on arrival being assisted to come down from the plane

What the 1999 Constitution says in Section 189 and 190 “189. (1) The Governor or Deputy Governor of a State shall cease to hold office if (a) by a resolution passed by two-thirds majority of all members of the executive council of the State, it is declared that the Governor or Deputy Governor is incapable of discharging the functions of his office; and (b) the declaration in paragraph (a) of this subsection is verified, after such medical examination as may be necessary, by a medical panel established under subsection (4) of this section in its report to the speaker of the House of Assembly.

(2) Where the medical panel certifies in its report that in its opinion the Governor or Deputy Governor is suffering from such infirmity of body or mind as renders him permanently incapable of discharging the functions of his office, a notice thereof signed by the Speaker of the House of Assembly shall be published in the Official Gazette of the Government of the State.

(3) The Governor or Deputy

Governor shall cease to hold office as from the date of publication of the notice of the medical report pursuant to subsection (2) of this section.

(4) The medical panel to which this section relates shall be appointed by the Speaker of the House of Assembly of the State, and shall comprise five medical practitioners in Nigeria (a) one of whom shall be the personal physician of the holder of the office concerned; and (b) four other medical practitioners who have, in the opinion of the Speaker of the House of Assembly, attained a high degree of eminence in the field of medicine relative to the nature of the examination to be conducted in accordance with the foregoing provisions of this section.

(5) In this section, the reference to “executive council of the State” is a reference to the body of Commissioners of the Government of the State, howsoever called, established by the Governor and charged with such responsibilities for the functions of Government as

the Governor may direct.

The amended Section 190: “(1) Whenever the Governor is proceeding on vacation or is otherwise unable to discharge the function of his office, he shall transmit a written declaration to the Speaker of the House of Assembly to that effect, and until he transmits to the Speaker of the House of Assembly a written declaration to the contrary, the Deputy Governor shall perform the functions of the governor as Acting Governor. “(2) In the event that the Governor is unable or fails to transmit the written declaration mentioned in sub-section 1 of this section within 14 days, the House of Assembly shall by a resolution made by a simple majority of the vote of the House mandate the Deputy Governor to perform the functions of the office of the Governor, as Acting Governor, until the Governor transmits a letter to the Speaker, that he is now available to resume his functions as Governor.”

Constitutional lawyer, Mr Fred Agbaje supported the position of the law makers that the governor should go back to New York to continue with his treatment.

He said: ”The lawmakers are correct in insisting that Suntai go back to hospital to continue with his treatment. They are the ones on ground, and they know the truth that the governor is not medically fit , that he is not the same Suntai they used to know.”

The situation in Taraba, Agbaje noted, is a “recap of the TuraiYar’Adua case of a few years ago.

I think Nigerians and Tarabans have learnt their lessons and don’t want a repeat of that episode. If he goes on TV with his picture by proxy to address the people of the state whereas he is not fit, he would have succeeded in doing what I called civilian treachery and is invariably causing damage to the fabric of the constitution,” Agbaje said .

Akinjide also cited the role the constitution has to play in the matter. “The constitution is clear on cases like this. There should be expert report. They can’t resolve the crisis without it. The onus falls on medical report,” he said.

Another lawyer Kayode Ajulo counselled the speaker to institute a five-man medical team to determine the fitness of the governor. Citing Section 189(4a) and (4b), he said the speaker has the power to set up such panel in a case where the governor is showing unfitness of sorts.

Constitutional lawyer, Mr Fred Agbaje also suggested the need for a medical approach to the matter on hand. “My advice is that a medical panel consisting of five medical personnel, one of which must be the personal physician of governor Suntai, be constituted to examine him to determine if he is fit to govern the state. When the panel decides whether he is fit or not, the matter will be resolved,” he said.

Agbaje further said there is adequate provision in the constitution in Section 189 of the amended constitution to solve the situation.

To the NBA, the only option is for the governor to speak directly to the assembly members and not by proxy. “The governor should address the House of Assembly. If

he does not address the House, then it means he is not there”, said Okey Wali.

For Falana, the way out is for Suntai to meet with his deputy and the Speaker for a full briefing on how the state fared in his absence if he was healthy enough to resume his duties.

Ikeji remarked that the health of Governor Suntai is pivotal and that any resolution, short term or long term, should address his true state of health. He said that a blind and rigid interpretation of the Constitution can only lead to chaos in Taraba State.

He challenged Suntai’s handlers to make public his certified true state of health provided by qualified medical personnel.

He said governor Suntai and the people around him should douse the tension by proving him fit and capable, health-wise, to be governor.”

He can do this by presenting himself to the State House of Assembly as was requested of him by the House in addition to subjecting himself to an independent transparent medical examination by an esteemed team of medical practitioners to ascertain his true state of health.

Indeed, this is an appropriate time to test the Freedom of Information Act since Suntai’s state of health ought to be public.

The way forward for Taraba Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Chief Richard Akinjide (SAN) said a medical report is critical to resolving the political logjam in Taraba. He said the authorities in Taraba need to get the appropriate medical report to determine if the governor is fit or not.

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2013

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LAW & SOCIETY The ICPC last month unveiled its maiden Law Report, containing decisions on 21 corruptionrelated cases by the commission. ERIC IKHILAE examines this publication, which ICPC says, is aimed at aiding the fight against corruption in the country.

ICPC introduces Law Report to aid trial

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NTIL recently, sourcing local au thorities for corruption-related cases was difficult. Lawyers and judges were compelled to rely on decisions of foreign jurisdictions in prosecuting corruption case.

The situation was so discouraging that a former Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission (ICPC) reportedly attributed the paucity of local authorities to the fact that corruption cases were hardly concluded in the nation’s courts.

Equally, the pioneer Chairman of the ICPC, Justice Mustapha Akanbi (retired) was quoted as observing that between 1985 and 2000, no cases of corruption were reported as prosecuted in any Nigerian superior court of record.

But today, the situation is gradually changing with efforts of the various anticorruption agencies in the country.

Much as more locally decided cases now abound, they are still not well harmonised, publicised and made easily available to those who require them.

It is in this light that the decision by the ICPC to publish a compilation of some corruption cases, which it had successfully prosecuted at the High Court, Court of Appeal and the Sureme Court, is commendable.

The 1029-page compilation, named “ICPC Law Report, Volume One,” and is to be cited as “(2013) Vol.1 ICPCLR,” is a report of judgments in 21 cases, and in which salient legal issues in relation to the various provisions of the ICPC Act,2000 have been resolved.

The publication is a result of the combined efforts of personnel of ICPC’s Legal Department and a private organisation.

Speakers at the public presentation of the report in Abuja, including Justice Akanbi, the Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Abubakar; former AttorneyGeneral of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Kanu Agabi (SAN) and another Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Abiodun Layonu, praised ICPC’s decision to produce the Law Report.

Akanbi noted that, at the inception of the agency, one of its constraints in prosecution of corruption cases was the dearth of decided cases.

He said the only known local authority then was the case of “Odofin and the State”.

Agabi said the Report would aid the court and lawyers in handling corruption cases, will serve as a ready pool of judicial authorities in that regard.

Layonu said the publication, “will, no doubt, go a long way in aiding the prosecution of subsequent corruption cases in Nigeria.”

ICPC Chairman, Ekpo Nta, while ex-

•Staff of Law Pavillion at the NBA conference

plaining the reason behind the publication, said it will assist the public and lawyers distinguish and recognise what constitutes elements of corruption.

Some of the cases featured in this maiden volume include the celebrated case of the Attorney-General of Ondo State and the Attorney General of the Federation, cited as (2013) 1 ICPCLR 254; ELECHI v FRN (2013) 1 ICPCLR 1; Fagoriola v FRN (2013) 1 ICPCLR 786; FRN v Anache (2013) ICPCLR 617; Ayoade Ogunsola (2013) 1 ICPCLR 868; FRN v Bitrus Bakkat (2013) 1 ICPCLR 739; FRN v Marius Ameh No 1 (2013) 1ICPCLR 566 and Chidiebere Ude v FRN (2013) 1 ICPCLR 808.

The AG, Ondo v AGF and the FRN v Anache cases mostly address the constitutionality of the ICPC establishment law - the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act (CPOROA), 20000.

Particularly, in the AG Ondo State v AGF case, the Supreme Court resolved issues relating to whether the National Assembly could legislate on issues relating to the establishment and regulation of authorities to promote and enforce the observance of the Fundamental Objectives and Directive Principles contained in Chapter Two of the Constitution; the mode of commencement of proceedings in the original jurisdiction of the Supreme Court as provided by Order 3 Rule 2(2) of the Supreme Court Act 1985.

The apex court also, in the case, resolved issues relating to the objective of the ICPC and how to achieve same, and whether the National Assembly can legislate on “corruption,” not being a subject under the Exclusive or Concurrent Legislative List; the interpretation of Section 15(5) of the Constitution in relation to the definition of the word “state” vis a vis the making of legislation on corruption.

The case also addressed issues relating to whether or not, provisions of the CPOROA impinge on the cardinal principles of federalism; whether the Federal Government can undermine the legislative powers and authority of the states; whether the National Assembly has the sole power to abolish all corrupt practices and abuse of power under Section 15(5) of the Constitution.

The apex court, also in the case, addressed the duty of the court in interpreting the Constitution; when the National Assembly may legislate on matters within the legislative or executive competence of the states and the powers of the AGF or person authorised by ICPC can lawfully initiate or authorise the initiation of criminal proceedings under the ICPC Act, in states’ courts.

In the Elechi v FRN case, the Federal High Court’s decided issues in relation

to the power of the ICPC to invite a suspect for interrogation.

In the case marked FHC/OW/CS/163/ 2011 Chinedum Elechi, then Deputy Speaker of Imo State House of Assembly sued the ICPC and two others, claiming that his invitation for interrogation over his alleged involvement in a case of fraudulent cheque conversion amounted to a violation of his right to personal liberty.

The court, as per Justice F. A. Olubanjo effectively addressed issues relating to the meaning of corruption under the commission’s Act, the powers of the ICPC to investigate individuals accused of involvement in fraud related offences. The court held that invitation for questioning

by ICPC does not amount to prima facie evidence of threat to violate an invitee’s fundamental right to liberty.

In the case of Fagoriola v FGN, the Court of Appeal, in a decision upheld earlier this year by the Supreme Court, dwelt on the meaning of no-case submission; when an accused will be discharged on a nocase submission; when a no-case submission can be made and upheld and that what a court needs to consider in a nocase submission, is whether the prosecution has made a prima facie case requiring some explanations.

In the case of FRN v Ameh, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court per Justice M. N. Oniyangi, identified ingredients of the offence of corrupt demand by a public officer, under Section 8 (i)(a), (ii)(b)(i) of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act 2000.

The appellate court also dwelt on the ingredients of the offence of corruptly receiving gratification by public officer under Section 10(a)(i) and (a)(ii) of the CPOROA 2000 and the issue of who has the responsibility of paying the expenses incurred by investigators while investigating a charge against an accused person.

The case of FRN v Bitrus Bakkat effectively addressed issues relating to whether a person must be a public officer before being charged with corrupt offences; the jurisdiction of the High Court in corruption cases; ingredients of offence of official corruption and that any person, not only public officers can be charged with corruption offences. The Chidiebere Ude v FRN case relates among others, to whether offences under Section 22(5) of the CPOROA are strict liability offences; the ingredients of proof of offences under Section 22(5) of the CPOROA and whether the defence of claim of right and honest mistake are available to an appellant. The case of FRN v Anache cited in this report is in respect of an appeal decided by the Supreme Court on the issue of whether the

•The Law Report CPOROA was constitutional as it relates to the National Assembly’s powers to make laws in relation to corrupt practices and abuse of office.

The ICPC had charged Alhaji Mika Anache, Adeyemi Omowunmi, Chief Adebiyi Olafisoye and Milton Paul Ohwovoriole (SAN) before the FCT High Court on the allegation that Omowunmi, Olafisoye and Ohwovoriole offered N3.5million to Alhaji Anache and other members of the Judicial Commission of Inquiry for the Investigation of the Management of the now defunct Nigerian Airways Limited, to induce the members to show favour to Olafisoye and his company Fidelity Bond of Nigeia Limited.

The accused persons raised an objection, challenging the jurisdiction of the Abuja High Court, an objection the trial court dismissed. They appealed to the Supreme Court, which upheld the decisions of the trial court and the Court of Appeal.

The apex court upheld the power of the National Assembly to legislate on corruption cases.

The Supreme Court, also in the case, addressed issues relating to the true definition of federalism and federal government; the purpose of the CPOROA; when an Act ultra vires the National Assembly; which Assembly is vested with the power to legislate on matter on the Exclusive and Concurrent Legislative lists and whether courts of law can build on hypothesis or rely on imaginaries.

The ICPC Law Report, which comes in hard, glossy paper-back no doubt, comes as a handy pool of resources for lawyers, law students and judges on areas relating to trial of corruption cases.

It is, however, expected that Nta will keep his promise of ensuring periodic production of the Report

•From left: Friday Efetie, Kukei Umoye and Patrick Iluobe at the NBA Annual General Conference in Calabar

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2013

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LAW & SOCIETY

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‘How to achieve peace in Nigeria’

O achieve peace in Nigeria, the government must combat the fundamental issues that fuel insecurity, such as corruption and poverty, a former Chief of Defence Staff, General Martin Agwai, has said.

He was the guest speaker at an event organised by the Military Law Forum of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) at its Annual General Conference in Calabar.

He warned that use of force alone without dealing with the security of the individual against want could lead to more strife.

The greater risk, he said, is that the armed forces, in a bid to suppress internal acts of terror, could be stretched beyond their capacity to protect the nation against external aggression.

There is also need for synergy among the security agencies, as well as increasing their capacity to function, he said.

Other speakers included Chairman Senate Committee on Defence, Senator George Sekibo, who chaired the event; the forum’s chairman, Air Commodore Ibrahim Shafii, and an Assistant InspectorGeneral of Police, Suleiman Abba, who represented the Inspector of Police.

Among lawyers who spoke were Chief Solomom Awomolo, who represented NBA President Okay Wali (SAN); Director-General, Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS) Prof Epiphany Azinge (SAN); Chairman of Council, National Human Rights Commission, Prof Chidi Odinkalu, activist-lawyer Mr Femi Falana (SAN), and former Kaduna State Secretary to the State Government, Dr Hakeem Baba Ahmed, among others.

Agwai, who as the guest speaker, said the deployment of soldiers in the northern states following a declaration of a state of emergency could have repercussion if the mission fails.

“We have already sent our first eleven and if our first eleven is defeated, I don’t know what will hap-

By Joseph Jibueze

pen,” he said.

To him, the fundamental issues that fuel insecurity must be tackled, even as he called for better synergy among the armed forces “Touch and go will not solve our security problems. The underlying issues must be addressed.

“The only way we can have lasting peace is like a fish in the water.

You must remove the fish in the water, or else as long as there is water, the fish will survive.

“If you want to kill a tree, you must go to the root. If you cut the branches, the tree will get up and even be much bigger than it was before. Go to the root causes. Address all the root causes of our challenges.

“We need a dialogue. It’s not faultfinding, saying you are right and I am wrong. It’s to examine what the grievances are. Security is not only physical. It your security, my security, the villager’s security.”

Aqwai also blamed insecurity on poor intelligence management, saying: “If the security agencies get their intelligence and information right, then you have done part of the work.”

He said development without security is not possible, but human security is even more important, “else the balloon will burst.”

Falana said soldier gets involved in internal security matters because for 30 years, military regimes progressively weakened the ability of the police to provide effective security.

Poor funding, he said, remains a problem, as out of N93billion voted for the police in the budget, a whopping N89billion will go for recurrent expenditure.

“No police station is allocated any money. They depend on bribes. You pay for charge sheets, and despite claims that bail is free, you pay for bail. That is how they fund the stations.

“All the tables and televisions you see in the stations are exhibits. With all of this, the military will continue

to be involved in internal security.

“It is not the business of the military to handle internal security. It’s the primary responsibility of the police.

“For the police to do that, we must empower them, we must equip the police, we must train the police and give the police all the necessary tools and conditions to perform that role.

“The armed forces are meant by the Constitution to play a secondary role, and that’s why it used the phrase: ‘In aid of civil authorities.’

But that has been subverted, and that’s why we’re in this mess.

“Today, the armed forces are in 28 states and Abuja. The military is now involved in election monitoring. It should not be tolerated.”

Falana said even men of the armed forces are not spared the effects of bad leadership, adding that “the military is being dehumanised by the authorities.”

According to him, when a Nigerian soldier is killed while on foreign operation, their bodies “are brought in at night and buried” rather than celebrating them as the United States does when its soldiers are killed.

“When soldiers are killed on duty, contact and compensate their families and give them heroes’ burial,” he said.

Azinge said the military should be trained on how to handle internal security without usurping the duties of the police.

“The military should realise that when they are handling security situations within their territory, they should not treat them as they would treat external aggressors.

“Why do they do well in peacekeeping operations but not do so well in internal security? This is what the military must interrogate,” he said.

Odinkalu said there is a sense of competition among the security services, which does not help the country’s safety.

“No agency is more patriotic than the other. They are serving the country,” Odinkalu said.

•From left: Executive Director NBA, Mr. Osita Okoro, Prof. Nkolika Aniekwu and chairman, Technical Committee on Conference Planning (TCCP), chief Joe Agi (SAN)

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CAC to delist 45,000 dormant firms

O fewer than 45,000 dormant limited liability companies will be struck off the register of the Corporate Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and barred from doing business, the commission has said.

The companies, it said, have not filed their yearly returns since their incorporation despite several reminders.

The commission said it would publish the names of defaulters in two national newspapers so that those which wish to regularise their records can do so.

CAC Registrar-General Mr Bello Mahmud, a lawyer, spoke while presenting the commission’s report at just concluded Nigerian

By Joseph Jibueze

Bar Association (NBA) Annual General Conference in Calabar, Cross River State.

He said 36,981 limited liability companies were registered under Part ‘A’ of the Companies and Allied Matters Act between January and June this year.

Over 40,700 firms were registered under Part ‘B’, while 3,611 Incorporated Trustees were registered under Part ‘C’, bringing the number of registered companies to 1,125,259, he added.

“The total number of business names registered to that date stood at 2,263,952, while the number of Incorporated Trustees stood at

62,217,” Mahmud said.

CAC said it has begun a 24-hour start-to-finish company registration, which operates in its Alausa, Yaba, Enugu and Kano offices.

Names reservations are processed and output sent to applicants within 24 hours, while its registration software is being upgraded to make online application submissions possible, the commission said.

“The upgraded system will accommodate all e-payment platforms such as Interswitch, eTransact, Visa Card, Mastercard, Verve Card, American Express and other forms of electronic payments,” Mahmud said.

LAW AND PUBLIC POWER

with gabriel AMALU email:gabrielamalu1@yahoo.com

Political hackers and Nigeria

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AST week, it was reported that a distraught sea shark was washed ashore a Lagos beach. The poor animal did not reckon with the country it ventured into. Before it could realise its fatal error, sundry thieves, hungry men, homeless fellows, wandering bandits and ignorant neighbours have gathered and were helping themselves from the ‘manna from the sea’. After all, like aja ogbanje, or the abiku sacrifice, the washed up animal belonged to nobody, and so any person who has the courage was welcomed to the deathly feast. It was with such intense desperation, that members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) fought for the soul of their party last Saturday, at the Eagle Square, Abuja. Again, farther up north, political desperados where out with their knives butchering our constitution in Taraba state crisis.

If the shark had landed in a saner environment, the country’s environmentalist would have gathered to help steer the poor thing back to its habitat; or at least mourn the mishap and worry about the desperate and ignorant hackers. But this is Nigeria.

Unfortunately, our country’s resources is treated not differently from the unfortunate shark, and what happened in Abuja last week was a show of the acute desperation between the desperados that have been helping themselves unhindered to the ownerless Nigeria.

As the leaders of the PDP have boasted several times, there is a greater intensity in the internal struggle for the control of their party than in the actual election. And the reason is simple.

It is a common practice among these hackers masquerading as politicians that when a candidate wins the party primary of the ruling party, the party would provide the cudgels to hack the system apart, while the party go ahead to rig their candidate into office.

But who knows, the impeding decimation of the amorphous sea animal called the PDP, may make the political environment safer.

While awaiting the benefits of the tectonic political upheavals across the political space, it is interesting to appreciate the variant forces at play, particularly in the PDP. Check out the disparate amalgam, known as the ‘new PDP’. Their new leader Alhaji Atiku Abubakar has under his wings Governors Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu, Murtala Nyako, Sule Lamido, Rabiu Kwankwaso and Aliyu Wamakko who are all General Olusegun Obasanjo’s political apologists. Now remember that Atiku Abubakar and his erstwhile principal, Obasanjo are sworn political enemies. At the rear of the splinter group are Abdulfatah Ahmed who is beholden to his godfather, Senator Olusola, and Governor Rotimi Amaechi, who is oscillating as man alone.

The men and women they left behind in the ‘old PDP’ are also desperate and disparate bedfellows. Check out the leaders; President Goodluck Jonathan, Chief Tony Anenih, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida, Gen. Olusegun Obasanjo, Chief Edwin Clark, Dr. Alex Ekwueme, Dame Patience Goodluck and the motley of governors mainly in the South-East, South-South and North-central. Interesting on the day the new apparition appeared, this paper carried an interview where President Jonathan’s new godfather, Chief Clark, was raining abuses on General Obasanjo, the retiring godfather of President Jonathan, for his maneuvres over who flies the party’s presidential flag in 2015. So, obviously all that is at stake for these political scavenging is not about how to help Nigeria to its feet; rather, it about being at the most vantage position and having the best cudgel to cut the best part of the country’s resources.

No doubt, it is the same desperation that has hitched the major political actors against one another in Taraba State. To be at the driver’s seat, the hackers in that state now treat the constitution upon which their legitimacy depends, as an ordinary piece of paper. But we must remind the dramatis personae and even the commentators that it is in the overall interest of our country and Taraba in particular, that, there are enough provisions in the constitution to bring the orchestrated debacle in Taraba state to an honourable end. Talking of honour, what is ordinarily expected of a sick man like Governor Suntai is for him to talk a leave from his position and go to the hospital for treatment and after that, if it is necessary, take a leave to rest to ensure full recovery.

But the holders of political offices in Nigeria are not a gang of workers, and Suntai knows. They are hackers, unconscionably hacking away the common resources put in their care, and that is why Governor Suntai, his deputy Garba Umar and the Speaker of the state House of Assembly are desperately seeking a hold of the vantage position of the state governor.

It has nothing to do with the interest of the people of Taraba.

In the circumstance, the law should come to our aid. In my humble view, Governor Suntai has fulfilled the requirement of Section 190(2) of the 1999 constitution as amended, by transmitting “a letter to the speaker that he is now available to resume his functions as Governor”.

Unfortunately, the constitution did not give the legislature any say upon receiving the letter. But where as alleged by those seeking to take over the state, the letter to the speaker was forged, the constitution provides under Section 188 that the Governor of the state can be removed from office “for gross misconduct in the performance of the functions of his office”. In the present circumstance, if they can substantiate that the purported signature on the letter to the speaker was forged; that clearly constitutes gross misconduct on Governor Suntai’s part, for which an impeachment process should be initiated against him. Unfortunately, the actors are all desperate, and riding roughshod over the constitution is all fair for these hackers.

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2013

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LAW & SOCIETY Prof. Bem Angwe is the Executive Secretary, National Human Rights Commission (NHRC).

He speaks to Legal Editor JOHN AUSTIN UNACHUKWU on some national issues and the challenges of combating terrorism in West Africa

How to fight terrorism, by commission’s chief

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other West African country alone, so today, international cooperation has become the best instrument for curbing terrorist activities.

Which countries did you tour?

For instance, I went to countries such as Senegal to help its Human Rights Commission and to also advocate for them. I also had interactions with the government of Senegal and met with the highest authorities there and we were also able to convene a conference towards the strengthening of the Senegalese Human Rights Commission that was downgraded. And I am happy to say here that efforts are being made to re admit that Human Rights Commission into grade A status and I also commend the efforts of the government there that heeded to our appeals and has strengthened that Commission now. And again, given the emergence of terrorism in the West African Sub-Region, the Network, under my chairmanship, is convening a sub-regional conference on terrorism, an act or extremism.

We have gotten in touch with the President of Cote’D Ivore who has accepted to host this conference and co incidentally, the President of Cote D’voir happens to be President of the Economic Community for West African States (ECOWAS) at this time.

It was reported that Nigerian security agencies have not employed the best rules in dealing with the insurgents. What is your reaction to this?

Well, these allegations are not on one side alone. We have a situation of allegations and counter allegations but one thing that we must note is that, whereas it is the responsibility of the security agencies to bring about peace and stability in any given country, one still doesn’t expect them to put up a red carpet for people who fight without rules, people who are unidentified, people who are not state actors who take up arms against civilians. Now the situation in the Northeast is such that whereas the security agencies are there to maintain peace and to protect the lives of civilians, they come against non identified persons who carry more powerful weapons more than the security agencies. In fact, sometimes, it becomes a situation whereby the security agencies still need to also protect themselves and also protect the lives of the civilians that they are there to protect. What is important here is to see how we find a situation of trying to find how we find a balance between security and the protection of human rights. So, one begins to understand with the security agencies when they have to apply the use of force to combat terrorism because terrorists are not just there waiting to be arrested, they fight back and fight against the security agencies so in a situation like this, it is not a one sided

When will this conference hold?

We are expecting that it will hold between the end of this month and next month and we are in touch with other heads of government in the West African Sub-region. We are going to convene this conference to put in place the strategies that will combat terrorism within the West African Community because the activities of terrorists are trans-border; so it requires the co operation of the international community to put this dragon into its bottle. This is not a fight that can be fought and won by Nigeria or any

‘Civilians have a big role to play in this fight against terrorism because they have information. They know about the whereabout of some of these terrorists, so it is for them to give such information to the security agencies who are there to protect the civilians’

ou were recently elected chairman of the Network of Human Rights Institutions in West Africa. How has it been and what are the challenges of holding the office?

Well, the election of Nigeria into this position came when the West African community needs a lot of interventions from the human rights institutions. As soon as I took over, I commenced a tour of some of the West African countries that were having problems with the status of their human rights institutions.

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affair whereby you come out and begin to condemn the security agencies in, what is important is to find out how we get to a situation trying to find a balance, a balance between security and the protection of human rights.

What is the role of civilians in the battle against terror?

Civilians have a big role to play in this fight against terrorism because they have information. They know about the whereabout of some of these terrorists, so it is for them to give such information to the security agencies who are there to protect the civilians. At the same time, the security agencies need to conduct themselves in such a manner as to give confidence to the civilians for them to freely and willingly give such information to them. The security agencies should behave in such a manner that the civilians should see them as friends. I am just happy to note that in the Northeast part of the country, the civilians have now constituted themselves into a vigilante group, they have teamed up together with the Joint Military Task Force (JTF) to combat the suspected terrorists, once there is this type of synergy between civilians and the security agencies, it will become one effective measure of bringing to an end, the activities of terrorists.

Your Commission recently released the reports of its prison audit. What is the next line of action? Have you taken actions?

We have taken not just action, but we have taken actions. First of all, let me say here that apart from getting this report to the public who were also involved in the validation of this report, we have written to the various authorities bringing to their knowledge, the information and the facts that we found out.

But most importantly, we have discovered that much of the problems associated with the violation of the rights of prisoners today, are problems that require immediate actions not only by the government, but also by private individuals and corporate bodies operating here in Nigeria.

What are the actions?

Most of the prisons that we have in Nigeria do not have vehicles to take prisoners to court. It may surprise you to know that we have a situation where one prison covers

•Prof Angwe

about 57 courts; in fact, some prisons cover up to 90 courts and such prisons have only one vehicle to convey prisoners to courts; so, most of the time you find, that the inability of these prisoners to attend to court is because of the lack of vehicles that will convey them to court. One major factor that constitute congestion in prisons, also constitute the slow pace of criminal trials that take place in the country So, what have you done?

We have written to the state controllers of prisons to furnish the commission with information about the number of courts that they cover and how many vehicles they have at their disposal to convey prisoners to courts daily. We are waiting for that information. Once we have that data, we will put the data together and will write to the president, and we are sure that if the president gets to know these facts, he will act immediately. We have also discovered that the Federal Government has been spending a lot of money in a bid to decongest the prisons; yearly huge sums of money are budgeted and efforts are made to decongest the prisons; particularly, one needs to commend the efforts of the Federal Ministry of Justice in this direction.

Fagbemi urges ‘85 class to donate to Law School

EADER of the 1985 Class, Nigerian Law School, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) has urged members of the class to donate to the Law School Golden Jubilee endowment fund.

Chief Fagbemi spoke at the yearly reunion of the class at the Governor’s Lodge, Calabar, the Cross Rivers State capital.

The class was hosted by the First Lady of Cross Rivers State, Mrs. Obioma Liyel-Imoke, also a member of the class.

In his welcome address, the Chairman of the class, Emeka Ngige (SAN) noted that last year, the class had its dinner in Abuja, adding that the event well-attended.

He said about 12 members who distinguished themselves in various fields of human endeavour were honoured last year during the reunion ,

By John Austin Unachukwu

adding that this year, in line with its tradition, the class honoured some of her members who brought honour to the class.

Those honoured include: Mrs. Obioma LiyelImoke; Chief Judge of Zamfara State, Justice Kulu Aliyu; Justice Peter Olabisi Ige (JCA), Justice J. T. Tsoho of the Federal High Court, Justice Anwuri Chikere of the Federal High Court, Mr. John O. Assein; Third Vice-President, NBA, Francis Ekwere, Mr. Matthew Egbadon, former Nigerian Ambassador to Spain and the Holy See, Ambassador Obed Wadzini.

Also honoured by the class is DirectorGeneral, Nigerian Law School, Dr. Mamman Tahir

•From left: Treasurer NBA, Joyce Oduah, Dr. Ikpeze Ogugua, Tess Morris Okeke, Rita-Chris Garba and Stella Ugboma

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•Some members of the class at the event.

NBA bans five lawyers, suspends two

HE Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has barred five lawyers and suspended two for five years in May this year after its disciplinary committee concluded 22 of 41 cases before it.

NBA President Okechukwu Wali (SAN) has warned that any lawyer found guilty of corruption would lose his licence.

“We are determined to deal with corruption and indiscipline at the Bar. I am sorry to say that more (disbarrments) are on the way.

“Some of our colleagues have turned themselves to conduits of all sorts, hobnobbing with clients and, with respect, some judicial officers to subvert the rule of law.

“We are determined to return the legal profession to its past glory. The message is clear: it is no longer business as usual,” Wali said.

He also warned the association’s branches to stop speaking on NBA’s behalf, as the NBA President re-

By Joseph Jibueze

mains the chief spokesperson.

“The NBA is one monolithic body with several branches. Whenever a branch speaks, the media carries it that NBA has spoken.

“The public does not know the difference. Please let us abide by this principle,” Wali added.

On criticisms that the NBA under him has not been as vocal as others in the past, Wali defended himself, saying his style is not to make statements without facts and figures.

“We are discerning enough to tell when the Bar should intervene, not when partisan politicians desire us to jump into their politics.

“I don’t want to be heard for the sake of being heard because I am the President of the NBA. You must draw a critical analysis of what is going on and intervene when we must intervene,” Wali added.

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THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2013

NATIONAL BAR

•Senate Leader, Senator Victor Ndoma Egba (SAN), Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Mohammed Bello Adoke (SAN), NBA President, Okey Wali (SAN), Cross Rivers State Governor, Senator Liyel Imoke and chairman of the occasion, former Chief Justice of Nigeria, S.M.A. Belgore (CJN) (Rtd)

•From left: Kunle Ogunba (SAN); former General Secretary NBA, Dele Adesina (SAN), former Minister for Youths Development, Inuwa Abdul Kadir,Second Vice- President, Steve Abar and Nasiru Ibrahim Junju

•From left: Kunle Uthman, Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice Lagos State, Ade Ipaye; Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Raji Fashola (SAN) and General Secretary, NBA Emeka Obegolu

•From left: Former President NBA, Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN); Chairman NBA Rule of Law Commission, Yusuf Ali (SAN), and Kunle Uthman

•From left: Chairman NBA Ogoja branch, Emmanuel Ubua, former President NBA, Chief Bayo Ojo and former Financial Secretary NBA, Enamhe Marc.

•From left: Former President NBA, Lanke Odogiyan; Director-General, Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies(NIALS) Prof Epiphany Azinge (SAN) and Chief John Agbaji A Ochoga.

•From left: Senator A. Sodongi, Hajiya Fatima Kwaku and former President, NBA T. J. N. Okpoko (SAN)

•From left: Former President, NBA Joseph B. Daudu, SAN; Chief Joseph Kyari Gadzama (SAN) and former General Secretary, NBA Afro Fayokun

•From left: Chief Ofodile Okafor (SAN), Chief Anthony Muogbo (SAN )and former President

•Paul Usoro (SAN) and Damian Dodo (SAN)

NBA, OCJ Okocha (SAN)

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2013

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LAW & SOCIETY The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) ended its week-long Annual General Conference in Calabar, Cross River State capital, last Friday. JOSEPH JIBUEZE reports.

NBA seeks solution to nation’s challenges

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HY has Nigeria remained backward despite its abundant human and natural resources? Why has its leaders been unable to solve its myriad of challenges, particular insecurity, poverty and corruption?

It is because it has had the misfortune of being governed by “transactional” and “pseudo-transformational” leaders, which has accounted for its underdevelopment, emeritus professor of political science, Jonah Isawa Elaigwe has said.

In a keynote address at the 63rd Annual General Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), he said the country has not been blessed with “transformational” leaders.

A transformational leader, Elaigwu said, wants to change the system to a new direction, and leads by example.

A transactional leader, on the other hand, lacks vision, leadership skills and creative ideas of how to develop a nation, he said.

The don described a pseudo-transformational leader is “a 419” (or fraudulent) head who transforms nothing but only uses the rhetoric of the transformational leader. Nigeria, therefore, needs a truly transformational leader.

“One of the challenges of the country is to grow the economy. There can be no democracy on an empty stomach,” Elaigwu said.

An estimated 8,000 lawyers gathered at the Tinapa Business Resort, Calabar, for the conference, which begin on August 25 and ended last Friday. It had the theme: Law, leadership and challenges of nationhood in the 21st century Nigeria.

In attendance were Attorney-General of the Federation, Mohammed Bello Adoke (SAN), who represented President Goodluck Jonathan; former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar; Cross River State Governor Liyel Imoke and Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola (SAN).

Also present were Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba who represented Senate President David Mark; House of Representatives Speaker Aminu Tambuwal and Inspector-General of Police Mohammed Abubakar, represented by a Deputy Inspector-General of Police Marvel Akpoyibo.

Former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Alfa Belgore, chaired the opening ceremony. The conference featured a show-case session with presentations

by Atiku and Imoke, a plenary session, which examined lawyers’ reporting obligations under the money laundering regime.

Several NBA fora, such as those on Section on Legal Practice, Young Lawyers Forum, Military Law Forum, Section on Business Law, Lawyers in the Media forum, Judges Forum, Women’s Forum, among others had separate sessions where they discussed various sub-topics bordering on the legal profession, rule of law and development.

A day before the conference began, NBA held its pre-conference National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting. Religious services were earlier held to mark the beginning of event. Several social events were held.

The kidnap of Chief Mike Ozekhome (SAN) led to several discussions on the country’s security situation, with lawyers calling for the creation of state police to tame the high rate of insecurity in the country.

NBA President Okechukwu Wali said the conference theme was carefully chosen in view of the current trend of event in Nigeria.

“The bar believes that once we get the leadership right in Nigeria, every other component of good governance will be well-established.

•From left: Chairman Law Reform Commission Akwa Ibom State, Essien Essien, chairman, Calabar branch NBA, Mrs. Nkoyo Ama and chairman, Local Organising Committee (LOC), Emmanuel Ekong

“But we believe that apart from leadership challenges, weak legal framework which underpins sustainable reforms and economic development is part of the cog in the wheel of Nigeria’s progress as a nation,” he said.

Adoke said any society which desires to bring about social justice and development will ultimately address “the functionality and centrality’ of law.

“In my respectful view, social justice and a development perspective to a nation’s legal system requires that the rule of law must be sacrosanct.

“This fundamental concept entails that rights (including economic rights) are protected and that arbitrary powers of the state curbed by the prescription of rules and codes that regulate and sanction,” Adoke said.

For Atiku, nations are not built on empty promises, avarice, greed and corruption. There must be something which citizens can point to as a benefit from their country, such as security, education, health care, electric power, or good image abroad.

“Our crossroads is clear,” he said.

“The road to continued mediocrity is simply not an option. Nigeria today is on the wrong track. We must do better. We must change. We must finally realise greatness. This giant must rise!

“The path to greatness demands honest, experienced and incorruptible leadership. it demands a sustained focus on economic development, critical improvements in infrastructure and uncompromised security system nationwide.

“Greatness demands putting the dignity, hopes and dreams of Nigerians – especially our youth – first and foremost as we chart our next 100-year course,” Abubakar said.

Mark said very Nigeria’s dream is to see a secure, just, equitable and prosperous Nigeria with strong social institutions and values, and developed infrastructure.

“This Nigeria of our dream can indeed become the Nigeria of our reality through law and leadership.

Our various problems will remain problems and challenges if we choose that they so remain.

“On the other hand through leadership, leadership by everyone of us in any given position, we can turn these problems and challenges into opportunities. This we can do and must indeed do,” the Senate President said.

According to him, in every calling or situation a citizen finds themselves, they must advance the common good.

“Those in public life must offer selfless service and service from the

‘This Nigeria of our dream can indeed become the Nigeria of our reality through law and leadership. Our various problems will remain problems and challenges if we choose that they so remain.

“On the other hand through leadership, leadership by everyone of us in any given position, we can turn these problems and challenges into opportunities. This we can do and must indeed do,” the Senate President said.’ heart; those in the legal profession must facilitate justice and not create obstacles to justice as we see today especially in criminal matters that affect the high and mighty of society.

“Our justice system has created such widespread cynicism that it is now publicly canvassed that our criminal justice where the well-heeled are involved has been outsourced; that the big among us can only be successfully brought to justice beyond our shores.

This situation is certainly not edifying and should concern the legal profession.

“On terrorism, our judicial system is clearly yet to rise to the urgency of the need to stem the threats. The legal profession must always be resourceful and versatile to respond to challenges as they arise and you all must be involved.

“We stand on the threshold of history and history beckons on us to seize the moment and transform our country. We must heed history’s call

by contributing our very honest best towards making Nigeria of our dream a reality,” Mark said.

Tambuwal said Nigeria faces serious challenges of nationhood, especially “crass insecurity of the proportions which in yesteryears was news from other lands.’

“We have played games with tribalism and ethnicity; we have patronised the chess board of regionalism, sectionalism and now geo-political zonealism.

“We have allowed these negative ‘isms’ to pull a wool that obliterates the reality that we are indeed a nation, however constituted, thereby denying ourselves the joy and benefits of oneness and unity.

“In the face of stupendous wealth, resources and potentials with which we could build a united nation of prosperous people we are indirectly but gradually building two nations in one: A nation of prosperity and affluence on the one hand and another nation of poverty and squalor on the other, yet our desire and expectation is nation building.

“It would appear that as a people we have thus far applied our intellect and wisdom in aid of our destruction. I am not in doubt, just as I am sure we all aren’t, that if we had deployed this intellect and wisdom in good governance over the years, we would not be suffering today from the challenge of malgovernance, from the challenge of poor infrastructure, from the challenge of insecurity, from the challenge of poverty and squalor, indeed the challenge of abject poverty of the majority,” Tambuwal

said.

Fashola, who called for the removal of Section 285 (6) of the 1999 Constitution that places a time-line on resolution of election petitions, said Nigeria will not need special agencies to deal with situation is people change their ways.

On the need for an Electoral Offences Commission to prosecute persons for electoral offences, Fashola said such agencies only increase the cost of governance, consume tax-payers’ money, and in most cases, their performaces do not justice their existence.

“The same money can be used to strengthen the investigative capacities of the police and the existing courts to do the same job. There, I say to us all, that we must never give up,” the governor said.

He urged legal practitioners to see themselves as leaders, saying many nations have been led to greatness by their lawyers.

“The Nigerian lawyers must rise from this conference and seek to be counted amongst the best professionals in their land by showing the way forward to build a nation where peace and justice shall reign,” he said.

In a communiqué at the end of the conference, NBA said the Constitution, as it operates, does not truly reflect the people’s yearnings and aspirations.

It added that ordinary amendments to its provisions may not necessarily cure the fundamental flaws in it.

“There is, therefore, a dire need for a people-oriented Constitution, which will be subjected to a national referendum and will be self-enforcing,” NBA said.

The NBA condemned the deplorable security situation in the country and “challenged” the Federal Government to review the strategy for fighting the menace of kidnapping and other forms of criminality. “The Bar condemns the seeming involvement of security officers in the payment of ransom for kidnapping and views this as aiding and abetting kidnapping,” NBA said, adding that payment of ransom by even the government can only serve as motivation and encouragement to kidnappers.

NBA urged security agencies to rescue, sympathising with the police authorities and families of four policemen said to have been killed during the kidnap.

The Bar identified corruption and unemployment as the factors leading to the degenerating security situation and urged the government at all levels to design workable policies to tackle the problem.

•From left: Mia Essien (SAN); former President Commonwealth Lawyers Association (CLA), Boma Ozobia; Funke Adekoya (SAN) and Hon. Olivia Agbajor at the conference.

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THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2013

LAW & SOCIETY

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Kekere-Ekun, Abiru advise lawyers on integrity

USTICE Kudirat Kekere-Ekun of the Supreme Court of Nigeria has advised lawyers to guide their integrity jealously.

She gave the advice at a reception in honour of herself, a Justice of the Court of Appeal, Justice Habeeb Abiru and some newly appointed judges of the Lagos State High Court.

She said their name is what would make them great in the profession.

Justice Habeeb Abiru urged lawyers to uphold integrity in their work.

“Your name is your trademark, you need to protect it,” he said.

The event, organised by the Muslim Lawyers’ Association of Nigeria (MULAN), Lagos State chapter, was also held to appreciate the appointments of some Muslim Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SAN).

Others also honoured were two other

By Adebisi Onanuga

new Lagos State High Court judges, Justices Ganiyu Safari and Justice Abdul Wasiu Animashaun.

The four SANs were Muhammed Ajibola, Prof Imran Oluwole Smith, Olusina Sofola and Jelili Owonikoko.

Justices Kekere-Ekun and Abiru further admonished Muslim lawyers to be good ambassadors of their religion, profession and be role models to their juniors.

Organisers of the event lauded those honoured for proving themselves in the profession and for their immense contributions to the growth of Islam .

Chairman of MULAN, Lagos State chapter Musoddiq Adele Sanni noted the cordial relationship between the association and state government, especially in laws that affect Muslims and the Islam.

He said MULAN would continue to

partner the state House of Assembly on the enactment of bills that may affect Islam or Muslims.

He said the association had participated in the debate on Shariah Coroner law, cremation and other issues of public importance in the state House of Assembly, noting that this the relationship brought about the Section 22 (3) of Lagos State Customary Law, which made the state to designate a court to adjudicate on Islamic laws in marriage, divorce and inheritance.

According to Sani, both parties have benefited from the relationship.

He said such development has also averted religious crises in the state.

Other dignitaries at the ceremony were Justice Kazeem Alogba of the state High Court; the state Solicitor General, Mr. Lawal Pedro, (SAN) and Chief Sofola (SAN) who chaired the event.

•Left: Head Judge, Lagos High Court, Justice Funmilayo Atilade Lagos Chief Judge, Ayotunde Phillips and Yetunde Idowu at the event

Ministry holds conference on restorative justice

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RISON Fellowship Nigeria, Chartered with Prison Fellowship International holds the National Prison Ministry Conference, from September 12-13 at Merit House, Central District, Abuja, under the chairmanship of the former Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice in Lagos State, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo.

The theme of the conference is “restorative justice, anchor of the social contract and democracy” .

In a statement by the Executive Director, Mr. Benson Ngozi Iwuagwu states that the objectives of the conference include: “ to promote discourse on a criminal justice system that in addition to punishing the offender, promotes victim/ offender mediation, reparation and community participation in the judicial process, “to examine alternative correctional models for effective reformation, rehabilitation and reintegration of prison inmates “to promote Prison Ministry as an effective social platform for

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By John Austin Unachukwu

reformation, rehabilitation and reintegration of prisoners, exprisoners, victims of crime, human capital development, crime curtailment and control“ to train those involved in and or interested in the reformation , rehabilitation and reintegration of prisoners, exprisoners and victims of crime in the use of effective outcome based intervention tools-Sycamore Tree Project, Onesimus Project, Angle Tree, etc”.

Giving insight into the background and conception of the conference, Mr. Iwuagwu said: “ It is obvious that over crowding in prisons and difficulties of prolonged judicial process cannot go away by adhoc inventions, but by pro-active action based on a re engineering of our criminal justice jurisprudence and practice.

He said: “the conference workshop will dwell on restorative justice to look at its models and policy framework that can be adopted into the

•Mr Iwuagwu

criminalization process, the Criminal Procedure Act , Rules of Practice (for Judges, lawyers and Judicial officers) as to de emphasise imprisonment as a major form of punishment.”

Iwuagwu noted that the focus would be on non-custodial sentences considered more effective, less damaging and dehumanising to accused persons and convicts, to satisfy the victims and give them an environment conducive for their communal harmony and safety.

Security guards arraigned for theft of diesel

WO security guards of Daystar Christian Centre Peter James 26 and Lucky Ikiedemhe 26, have been arraigned before an Ikeja Magistrates’ Court, over alleged theft of diesel.

The accused resides at No 35, Oyinlola St., Iyana-Ipaja, Lagos and No 16, Adeniyi Jones, Ogba,

By Adebisi Onanuga

Lagos.

The prosecutor, Inspector Samson Ekikere said that the defendants conspired and committed the offences at 10.35pm on Aug 24 in the premises of the church at Oregun road, Lagos.

He alleged that the defendnts stole 100 litres of diesel worth N20, 000, property of the church.

Ekikere went further to explain to the court that the accused were caught trying to smuggle the diesel out of the premises by the chief security officer of the church.

The prosecutor said the offences contravenes, Sections 285 (7) and 409 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011.

Jide Aladajobi vs NBA: A critique of Supreme Court’s decision

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N July 12, this year, the Supreme Court of Nigeria, in the case of Jide Aladejobi vs The Nigerian Bar Association, unreported judgment in Appeal No SC/121/2011, held that it lacked the jurisdiction to hear appeals from the decisions and or directions of the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee hereinafter called LPDC of the Body of Benchers.

In the lead judgment delivered by his lordship Hon Justice John Afolabi Fabiyi, JSC, the Court held that appeals from the directions of LPDC of the Body of Benchers should go to the Appeal Committee of the Body of Benchers said to have been created by section 11(7) of the Legal Practitioners Act 1990 as amended.

Their lordships of the Supreme Court made up of Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, John Afolabi Fabiyi, Suleiman Galadima, Musa Datijo Muhammad and Stanley Shenko Alagoa JJSC, reasoned quite erroneously with respect, that the Supreme Court lacked jurisdiction to hear the appeal of the appellant, Mr Jide Aladejobi, whose name was ordered to be struck off the Roll of Legal Practitioners in Nigeria.

In the lead judgment, Fabiyi, JSC, held: if it is the fact that there is presently no Appeal Committee of the august body on ground, such lacuna should be remedied without any undue delay so as to enable the appellant take necessary action deem fit as dictated by law before the Appeal Committee of Body of Benchers. If I may suggest it should be a standing committee like the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee. I dare say it that the time for same is now in my humbly view.

It held that the decision of the Supreme Court in Okike vs LPDC (2005) 15 NWLR (pt.949) 471, was given per incuriam and that in the face of the applicable law it discussed, the Okike decision cannot stand the test of time. Was the Supreme Court right in its decision in Jide Aladejobi vs NBA on the points raised and decided by it? Is the decision in Okike vs LPDC (supra) given per incuriam.

Was the Supreme Court Properly guided or did it properly guide itself in the Aladejobi’s case. My view on the above issues is in the negative.

The Supreme Court decided Aladejobi’s case per incuriam in the face of its decision in Okike vs LPDC (2005) 3-4 SC 49. In the Okike vs LPDC (No1) supra, decided on April 1, 2005 and reported in the Judgment of Supreme Court (SC) which is different from Okike vs LPDC (No2) (2005) 15 NWLR (Pt.949) 471 decided on July 15, 2005, the Supreme Court on October 15, 2004, coram: Kutigi, Uwaifo, Musdapher, Pat-Acholonu and Akintan JJSC, as they then were,

By J.S.Okutepa

suo motu raised the constitutional point of the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court to hear appeals from the decisions/directions of LPDC. Full court was constituted to decide this point.

The full court was then led by Uwais CJN as then was. Other members of the panel were, Belgore, Kutigi,Ejiwunmi, Musdapher, PatAcholonu and Akintan JJSC as they then were. Arguments were canvassed and the supreme on July 15, 2005 held that it has jurisdiction to hear appeals from the directions of LPDC. In the lead ruling of Uwais CJN as he then was at page 67 of the report his lordship held that: This court does not readily oust its jurisdiction.

In principle, it jealously protects its jurisdiction. It follows from the foregoing that this court amply has jurisdiction to hear the present appeal from the Disciplinary Committee. I therefore, so hold.

Accordingly, the appeal in this case is fixed for hearing on April 28, 2005.

It is that appeal that was heard that is reported in (2005) 15 NWLR (pt,949) and it is known as Okike vs LPDC No 2. See Ndukwe vs LPDC (2007) 5 NWLR (Pt.1026) 1 at 32 para H. It was a unanimous decision of the full court of seven Justices of that court. That decision is fully reported.

With respect the learned counsel who appeared and argued the case of Aladejobi did not properly guide the Supreme Court.

The Supreme also did not guide itself properly. If the court had adverted its mind to its decision of full court delivered on April 1, 2005, as it ought to, it could not have come to the view it held in Aladejobi’s case. Perhaps it is necessary to stress here that both the Supreme Court and learned counsel that appeared in this Aladejobi case did not appreciate the fact that the law that created the Appeal Committee of Body of Benchers has been repealed by Decree No 21 of 1994. See Okike vs LPDC No1 and in particular the lead ruling of Uwais CJN as he then was at pages 61-62 thereof.

It is submitted that the decision of the Supreme Court was clearly per incuriam in the face of the decision of the same Supreme Court which was of the full court and which was neither referred to nor over ruled in Aladejobi case.

The Supreme Court is, therefore, most humbly requested to correct itself and overrule its decision of July 12, this year as it was not properly guided in the light of the prevailing laws and its own decision which it ought to take judicial notice of.

Police partner lawyers on crime prevention

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HE Inspector-General of Police Mohammed Abubakar is seeking partnership with lawyers in the battle against crime.

In a goodwill message at the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Annual General Conference in Calabar, Cross River State, the police chief said he found the bar and the bench as allies with a penchant for law, order, justice, peace and development in the country.

He was represented by a Deputy Inspector-General of Police Marvel Akpoyibo.

According to him, despite the nation’s enormous human and natural resources, the task of nation building has been Herculean.

He said: “The fears of minorities, the threats of security and the questions of equity, equality and justice have become endemic in our national discourse.

“We have recorded some successes, such as keeping the country together in the face of these challenges.

“Nation-building is, therefore, the outcome of deliberate statecraft on the part of every Nigerian.”

By Joseph Jibueze

He added: “We in the Nigeria Police Force acknowledge that the requirement of law enforcement which is the hallmark of our constitutional responsibility derives from and assumes meaning in lawmaking, law interpretation and adjudication.

“The police, the bar and the bench are, therefore, so inextricably interdependent that the more we collaborate at strategic and tactical levels, the better it would be in the Temple of Justice, the criminal justice administration system and national security. “The Bar could partner with us and leverage the force in areas of information and intelligence development, public enlightenment against crime, training in prosecution, human rights rules and international best practices, genderbased violence and discrimination, institutional litigation and corporate responsibility.

“The Nigeria Police Force is your police force, your friend and your indispensable ally in the administration of law and justice.”

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LAW REPORT

‘Courts can formulate issues for parties where justice demands’ “Section 233 (2) An appeal shall lie from decisions of the Court of Appeal to the Supreme Court as of right in the following cases: a.

Where the ground of appeal involves question of law alone, decisions in any civil or criminal proceedings before the Court of Appeal; b. decisions in any civil or criminal proceedings on questions as to the interpretation or application of this Constitution;

In the Supreme Court of Nigeria Date: April 19, 2013 SC. 135/2004, 2013(4) LEDLR-16 Before their Lordships CHRISTOPHER MITCHELL CHUKWUMA ENEH IBRAHIM TANKO MUHAMMAD SULEIMAN GALADIMA NWALI SYLVESTER NGWUTA STANLEY SHENKO ALAGOA BETWEEN ALHAJI RASAKI ABIOLA EKUNOLA

APPELLANT

AND CENTRAL BANK OF NIGERIA

RESPONDENTS

ALHAJI SAIDU MOHAMMED (Director of Personnel, CBN) SUPREME COURT OF NIGERIA

•Continued from last week

.

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WALI Sylvester Ngwuta, JSC: I had the privilege of reading in draft the lead judgment just delivered by My Lord, Chukwuma-Eneh, JSC.

I agree that Grounds 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10 and 11 of the appellant’s grounds of appeal are grounds of either mixed law and facts or facts.

Section 233 of the Constitution of the Federation 1999 (as amended) provides: -

c. ……… (d) …….. (e) ……… and (f) ……….’’

Section 233 (3) provides: “Subject to the provisions of subsection (2) of this Section, an appeal shall lie from the decisions of the Court of Appeal to the Supreme Court with the leave of the Court of Appeal or the Supreme Court.”

(Underlining mine for emphasis).

None of the appellant’s grounds of appeal on grounds other than law alone falls within the intendment of Section 233 (2) (a)-(f) of the Constitution. The said grounds filed without leave of the Court of Appeal or the Supreme Court first sought and obtained are invalid and the Court has no jurisdiction to hear and determine the appeal on the said grounds. See Nwaolisha v.

Nwabufor (2011) All FWLR (pt.

591) 1438.

It is immaterial that Section

233 (3) of the Constitution does not provide a sanction for its violation. A ground of appeal which is incompetent for any reason is liable to be struck out.

A right of appeal or any other right granted by law cannot be exercised without compliance with the law granting the right, or any other law or rule regulating the exercise of the right.

Appellant’s eleven grounds of appeal (with the exception of ground 7) and the issues distilled from them are incompetent and are hereby struck out.

Among the diverse curious submissions made by the learned Counsel for the appellant, this one stands out: “...the Court, through its Registry, could adopt an administrative procedure of notifying an appellant that he requires the leave of Court for his appeal to lie ...”

With due respect, learned Counsel’s reformation agenda, backed by over 30 years at the Bar, should be directed to the appropriate authority. Be that as it may, the appellant in this case did not settle the processes filed in the appeal. They were settled by his Counsel who is deemed to know that the court is a creation of Statute and in exercise of jurisdiction conferred by law, it has to comply with its rules of procedure. The court does not have to spoon-feed learned

Counsel on the law and rules.

On the issue derived from the surviving ground of appeal, ground 7, there is a concurrent finding of fact of the two Courts below to the effect that appellant’s claim is bereft of merit.

This court has no duty, and will decline, to interfere with the concurrent findings of the High Court and the Court of Appeal unless the appellant shows that the findings are perverse. See Okafor v.

Idigo (1984) 1 SCNLR 481; Kpomiglo v. Kodadja (1933) 2 WACA 24.

Appellant did not show that the findings are perverse and his appeal is bound to fail.

For the above and the more exhaustive reasoning in the lead judgment, I also strike out all the grounds of appeal except ground 7 and the issues distilled therefrom. I dismiss the appeal on ground 7 as bereft of merit.

Parties are to bear their costs.

STANLEY SHENKO ALAGOA, JSC: I read before now in draft the judgment just delivered by my learned brother C. M. ChukwumaEneh, JSC. He has quite comprehensively dealt with the matter.

I have nothing useful to add. I also dismiss the appeal as lacking in merit while I make no order as to costs.

Appearances: Johnson O. Esezoobo Esq. for Appellant.

Prince Aderemi Adekile Esq. for the Respondents.

•Concluded

LEGAL JOKES

A

priest, a lawyer and an engi neer are about to be guillo tined. The priest puts his head on the block, they pull the rope and nothing happens. He declares that he’s been saved by divine intervention, so he’s let go.

The lawyer is put on the block, and again the rope doesn’t release the blade. He claims he can’t be executed twice for the same crime and he is set free too.

They grab the engineer and shove his head into the guillotine. As he looks up at the release mechanism, he says, “Wait a minute, I see your problem...”

•Mr. Festus Okoye (left) and Prof. Deji Adekunle

Politicians should not appoint judges, says Appeal T is wrong for elected political cases where judges try to Court justice are office holders to appoint judges, please their godfathers and

I

Presiding Justice of the Court of Appeal, Lagos Division, Justice Amina Augie has said.

She said politicians have contributed to the appointment of incompetent lawyers as judges in the country.

Speaking at the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Annual General conference in Calabar, the Cross River State capital, she said many of those appointed as judges are not meant for the job.

She said: “A lot of judges do not come prepared. If you don’t have training, not prepared, have no passion for the job, you can’t be a good judge.

“We have the political situation that has thrown up all manner of persons as judges.

“We now have a situation where politicians, who would want a way to compensate their girlfriends and man friends, nominate them for

By Joseph Jibueze

appointment as judges.

“And when they are so appointed, they become a problem to the judiciary.

“These judges hide under every kind of pretext to adjourn matters or even strike out cases, because they were not prepared in the first place to be judges and lack the confidence, firmness and exposure to deal with matters brought before them.”

Justice Augie decried the low quality of judgments and rulings which come to appeal, saying it was unfortunate that the political system makes it possible for incompetent persons to be appointed judges.

“There is also the issue of corruption. It does not only entail when money changes hands. There

mothers, who got them appointed as judges in the first place. That is also corruption.

“If you don’t have the training, passion and discipline, you don’t need to aspire to be a “judge”.

The danger of politicians influencing the appointment of judges is that when the time comes, they expect the judge to do their bidding, even when most often, it is not ethical and professional.

“But then, the issue becomes that of serving those that appointed the judge, which is the main reason why it does more harm to the system for politicians to influence the appointment of judges.

“Until we flush out the bad eggs in the system, until we put round pegs in round holes, and until we ensure that the best brains and hands become judges, we cannot have good judges,”she added.

A physician, an engineer, and an attorney were discussing who among them belonged to the oldest of the three professions represented.

The physician said, “Remember, on the sixth day God took a rib from Adam and fashioned Eve, making him the first surgeon. Therefore, medicine is the oldest profession.”

The engineer replied, “But, before that, God created the heavens and earth from chaos and confusion, and thus he was the first engineer. Therefore, engineering is an older profession than medicine.”

Then, the lawyer spoke up. “Yes,” he said, “But who do you think created all of the chaos and confusion?”

When do you know a lawyer is telling the truth?

When his lips are shut.

Lawyers are just like physicians: what one says, the other contradicts. ”Lawyers Are”: The only persons in whom ignorance of the law is not punished.

— A lawyer boarded an airplane in New Orleans with a box of frozen crabs and asked a blonde stewardess to take care of them for him.

She took the box and promised to put it in the crew’s refrigerator. He advised her that he was holding her personally responsible for them staying frozen, mentioning in a

very haughty manner that he was a lawyer, and proceeded to rant at her about what would happen if she let them thaw out.

Needless to say, she was annoyed by his behavior. Shortly before landing in New York, she used the intercom to announce to the entire cabin, “Would the lawyer who gave me the crabs in New Orleans, please raise your hand.”

Not one hand went up . . . . so she took them home and ate them.

A lawyer and a blonde are sitting next to each other on a long flight from LA to NY. The lawyer leans over to her and asks if she would like to play a fun game.

The blonde is tired and just wants to take a nap, so she politely declines and rolls over to the window to catch a few winks.

The lawyer persists, saying that the game is really easy and a lot of fun.

He explains how the game works: “I ask you a question, and if you don’t know the answer, you pay me, and visa-versa.”

Again, she politely declines and tries to get some sleep.

The chauvinistic lawyer figures that since his opponent is a blonde he will easily win the match, so he makes another offer:”Okay, how about this “If you don’t know the answer you pay me only $5, but if I don’t know the answer, I will pay you $50.” This catches the blonde’s attention and, figuring that there will be no end to this torment unless she plays, she agrees to play the game. The lawyer asks the first question. “What’s the distance from the earth to the moon?” The blonde doesn’t say a word, reaches in to her purse, pulls out a fivedollar bill, and hands it to the lawyer. Now, it’s the blonde’s turn. She asks the lawyer, “What goes up a hill with three legs, and comes down with four?”

The lawyer looks at her with a puzzled look. He takes out his laptop computer and searches all his references.

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2013

39

ABUJA REVIEW NEWS

• President Goodluck Jonathan(fourth left) with pioneer doctors of Niger Delta University during PHOTO AKIN OLADOKUN. their courtesy call at the Presidential Villa.

• NYSC members Miss Areh Ayobami Christianah and Miss Idris Ilebaye Augustina (middle) marking their birthday at the Abuja Children’s Home, Karu, Abuja PHOTO ABAYOMI FAYESE

•From left: Minister of State for Power Hajia Zainab Ibrahim Kuchi; Minister of State for FCT Olajumoke Akinjide; Chief of Staff to the President Chief Mike Oghiadomhe and Minister of Water Resources Mrs Sarah Ochekpe, during the Federal Executive Council PHOTO AKIN OLADOKUN. meeting at the State House in Abuja.

W

HY do people go extreme miles in order to acquire wealth? I do ask myself this rhetorical question each time I walk around the streets or some major roads across the city, and see manholes uncovered and widely opened.

The wide openings on the ground, which do not only pose a threat to residents of the territory, seem to be a lucrative business to scavengers.

When Abuja Review visited places such as Jabi, Mabushi, Wuse 2 and the Central Business District (CBD), it was discovered that many a time, the manhole covers were lifted and stolen in dark hours.

But for other reasons, telecommunication experts amidst other professionals who often have things to do underground fail to enclose the openings after work. Often time, they dig the walkways, dismantle the interlocks

T

• Cooking, the local way at an Abuja roadside

Manholes: Danger on Abuja roads From Jane Maha

and subsequently leave it unfixed.

It is said that the metal cover can fetch a lot of money when sold out to blacksmiths. A manhole is a hole in the ground usually covered with a metal cover through which a person can gain access to an underground structure such as telephone and electric cables as well as being used to protect underground workers against outside rudiments.

Both in the past and recently, most people have faced a lot of problems and bad experiences praying and hoping that something should be done about it but it seems to be just a mere dream that will never come to pass.

Speaking about the manholes on the roads and its effects on the inhabitants, one of our sources said that she has seen a lot of uncovered manholes without any sign to notify people about it. She said that “I saw someone who almost fell into it, it could have been terrible. I mean its really bad, even if the government doesn’t have enough resource for it, they should make some

planes or better still put a sign post to prevent danger”.

Another resident who gave out her name as Miss Michelle said that “as for me, uncovered manholes are very dangerous especially at night when there are no street lights and you might not know that there is manhole there and you can just fall into it. It has happened to me some time ago and I know exactly

There are a lot manholes in Kubwa.

Last week, some school children nearly fell into one when they were trying to avoid a commercial motorcyclist that was about to hit them. It can as well be your children someday

Raising a reading nation

HERE is a saying that: “If you want to keep a secret from a Nigerian hide it in a book.”

Although most of us, readily disagree with the saying, we still refuse to read.

The American corner Abuja trained some children recently, on the importance of having a good reading habit, with encouraging words like “ the more you read, the more things you will know, the more you learn, the more places you

PHOTO ABAYOMI FAYESE

From Grace Obike

will go.”

The three weeks summer reading program was organised by the American corner with the theme, “dig into reading” where children from ages 6-12 where given the opportunity to read from the vast collection of the Abuja American Corner library, the basics of story telling and used recyclable materials to create beautiful works of art.

They were also inspired to

dream through the compelling story of Martin Luther King Jr and their spelling skills sharpened through spelling bee contests.

The United States deputy chief of mission to Nigeria, Maria Brewer who was present at the closing ceremony of the program encouraged parents to always read to their children everyday as a way of nurturing their minds.

Brewer who read to the children from the book ti-

tled, “ Lamar, Lamar time to share” told them that each book opens new doors and together, they can travel to exciting worlds and new places from the comfort of their homes.

American Corners are partnerships with hostcountry institutions. The partner provides a physical space and staff while the Public Diplomacy section of the U.S. Embassy provides multi-media materials about the United States, training and technical support.

how it feels”.

A cab driver said that ”manholes are supposed to be used to cover all these sewages and drainages that normally brings out bad smells. As you can see, we have to cover up our nose each time we pass through this place and its bad, very bad because it can be harmful to our health.” Most times it is the fault of the constructors.

Another road user who lives in Kubwa said that there are lots of these manholes in his area and the government is not doing anything about it. He said, last week some school children nearly fell into it when they were trying to avoid a commercial motorcyclist that was about to hit them. It can as well be your children someday.

However, the question is who is to be blame for this? Is it the individuals who stole them or the government? Well both the individual and the government should be held responsible. The government should make sure that the roads are well constructed and the workers clean up after they’re through before they pay for the work. At most, visit all these areas of construction and make sure that things are done appropriately and the masses should be enlightened on the implications of what they are doing.

Sometimes, these manholes are left open by the contractors who construct these roads with the mind of revisiting them after construction or feel it is not just important and they leave them that way.

They also provide accurate information about the U.S., including education and cultural programs; access to English language resources and connections to alumni.

A spelling bee competition was held in three stages for children between the ages of 6-7, 8-10 and 11-12 for the closing ceremony with 6years old Terna Piu Ukeyima emerging as the winner for the younger age group.

Chima Mmachukwu emerged for ages 8-10 and the battle between the two finalist Chima Lawrence Akachukwu and IIoaya Ebuka which can be likened

to the clash of the titans was eventually won by Chima Akachukwu.

One of the parents at the event, Ernest Osogbue, a father of three boys in the program said that the programme was great because it kept the children busy during the holidays and prevented them from having to watch cartoons all day.

While Chima Mmachukwu, a primary four pupil and one of the winners said that the experience was fun and the program had taught them the spirit of reading since they do not know what lies ahead in their future.

40

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2013

ABUJA REVIEW

T

HE message to the President’s cabinet was clear: perform or be kicked out.

Until Monday, last week, Inuwa Abdukadir, who held the Minister of Youth Development portfolio, was oblivious of President Goodluck Jonathan’s sledge-hammer falling on him that same day. He was confronted with the shocking news of his sack while on a trip to Calabar, Cross Rivers State.

The Presidency has claimed that Abdukadir’s sack was purely based on his incompetency in handling the affairs of his Ministry.

His offence was said to have included presentation of a forged list of new executive of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) to President Jonathan when no election was actually held.

There were, however, allegations that the real reason the minister was relieved of his position was because the Presidency was not comfortable with his closeness to Sokoto State Governor, Aliyu Wamakko and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Aminu Tambuwal.

It was also alleged that he was shown the way out of the cabinet for not making it possible for Jonathan’s candidate in the youth election to win.

But the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Dr. Reuben Abati was quick to deny the allegations.

He said: “In point of fact, it was Alhaji Abdulkadir’s regrettable deviation from this presidential commitment in the management of the NYCN elections that led to the decision to relieve him of his appointment as Minister of Youth Development” “Claims that he (President Jonathan) had a preferred candidate in the NYCN elections are completely baseless and

Perform or get the boot From the Villa

By Augustine Ehikioya

without justification as there was absolutely no reason for him to prefer one candidate over others.”

“The President therefore expects all officials of his admin-

istration to exhibit greater rectitude and sensitivity on issues related to youth development, and comport themselves at all times in a manner worthy of emulation

Abuja’s haven for the rich •Continued from Page 27 upscale clientele. But that does not mean that other people can’t come. Everybody is welcome here.”

She further disclosed that the

• One of the bars

lounge is named after an Island in South America. “You know there is an Island called Barbados.

And my favourite artiste is Rhianna. She is from Barbados. I like her so much. She is my model.

I am also hoping that during our one year anniversary, I will fly Rhianna down to perform. This place used to be called Silver Spoon. I used to come here to have my lunch. They had good food. Sometimes I come for their

by Nigerian youth,” he added Barely 24 hours after Abdulkadir’s sack, the Presidency also issued a query to Chairman of the National Population Commission (NPC), Festus Odimegwu over his comments on the result of the 2006 national census.

Apart from the removal of the former Minister of Defence, Alhaji Bello Haliru Mohammed alongside the former National Security Adviser, the late General Owoye Azazi from office in June last year, the former Minister of State for Health, Dr. Ali Pate resigned his appointment to take up the position of Professor in Duke University’s Global Health Institute, USA in July.

Minor cabinet reshuffle, where some ministers exchange their portfolios, have also been recorded under the Jonathan’s administration.

If Abdulkadir’s sack really had no political undertone and done strictly because of his poor performance at the Youth Development Ministry, the action will help to keep other ministers and government officials on their toes.

Many Nigerians will, no doubt, queue behind and support the President to do more of this sacking if that is what it will take for him to deliver more dividends of democracy to Nigerians before the current tenure expires in two years.

jazz night,” she said.

She noted that there are a lot of youths who have made it and they are looking for somewhere to unwind. “They are also welcome,” she insisted According to her, Barbados has adopted innovative measures to survive the intense competition put up by similar outfits in the area. “We have VIP sections where the high and mighty come when they don’t want to be noticed. We will sneak him in there.”

She added that people cannot just walk into their VIP sections.

“We have codes and except we give you our code or we open the door with our cards, you can’t go in there. So, anybody that comes in here is secured. Anybody that wants privacy will get the privacy.

“We have good security. We have CCTV and well trained guards to provide security round the clock. We also have well trained and cultured bouncers.

“We have very courteous waiters and waitresses. They are always wearing smiles on their faces. Discipline is our watchword. Every customer is king here. We have different sections for everybody.

“We know we have a lot of competitions, but we have defined our own style of operation that anybody who walks in here will always want to come back.

When our customers come here, they will see our beautiful ambience and many things that are different from what they will get

from every other lounge that they will go to.

“We stand out because we have efficient staff, special kind of menus you don’t get anywhere else. We call it our Barbados specials. We also take care of vegetarians and people who are diabetic. We provide them special meals.

“We have devised a means that when you come in here, our staff will welcome you with smiles on their faces. Our prices are moderate. We have a restaurant where people are going to earn points.

When you come in here, you earn points. When you introduce customers to us, you earn points.

When your points get to a maximum level, we give you a treat at Barbados.

“Our prices are one of the best in Abuja. We are not looking at 100 per cent profit. Customers’ satisfaction is paramount,” she added.

She also said that her experience in Lagos would go a long way to make the place unique.

“I have been in business in Lagos before and then my partner has always had a dream of a lounge.

“We have so many activities lined up. It is going to be the normal clubbing lounge thing. We want to spice it up with popular artistes every quarter. Not just artistes, footballers and musicians. We are also going to have our hall of fame. This place is also a celebrity hangout. We have created a programme for our celebrities,” she concluded.

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2013

43

POLITICS The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Employment, Labour and Productivity, Senator Wilson Ake, spoke with BISI OLANIYI in Port Harcourt on the way out of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) crisis in Rivers State.

How to resolve Rivers crisis, by PDP Senator

T

HE National Assembly’s resolution that the Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Mbu Joseph Mbu, should be redeployed has been ignored by the InspectorGeneral of Police (IGP), Mohammed Abubakar. What is your reaction?

I do not know what the IGP means by asking Mbu to be professional in his duties. The National Assembly has taken a position. The Senate carried out investigation, to know what led to the crisis, before taking the position. Two heads are better than one. The Senate and the House of Representatives declared that the commissioner of police should give way, to ensure peace in Rivers State.

If we desire peace in Rivers State, the first person to be sent away is Mbu, because his actions were very obvious and everybody saw that he was playing politics out of the whole thing.

The National Assembly members are on long recess. By the time we come back, a decision will be taken on the issue, because we are the largest representatives of the people, who gather together in one place. If 439 persons took a decision, a reasonable person should look at it critically and in-depth. It is very unfortunate that the IGP is yet to redeploy Mbu. You cannot have somebody in appointed position being in contention with a popularly elected governor.

Where the two of them cannot work, it becomes mandatory that the commissioner of police must go.

The governor of a state, as the chief security officer, has the right to request for the change of a police commissioner. The governor has done that severally and other people have joined their voices to say so many times, insisting that Mbu must be redeployed.

Is it not hasty for the National Assembly to take over the functions of the Rivers State House of Assembly?

The action is not hasty. The impunity of the past should remain in the past. The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria provides us with the opportunity to react the way we did, to save elected representatives in the state.

The Senate sent a team to Rivers State to investigate the crisis. With what they saw, it was sufficient to take over the functions of the House of Assembly of 32 persons, with 27 of them indicating that the National Assembly should take over the functions of the House of Assembly, because of the huge risk involved in sitting. The five lawmakers (antiAmaechi) insisted on sitting, while the 27 persons (pro-Amaechi) said they would not be able to sit. In democracy, you have to listen to the larger number of the people, who believe that it will be very dangerous for them to sit. Taking over the Rivers House of Assembly will save additional problems, by letting the tempers come down and people begin to talk to one another, for reason to prevail. It is not an indefinite take over.

When are the members of the Rivers House of Assembly likely to sit?

The moment peace is noticed in Rivers State, everybody will know.

They will sit when police can provide adequate security for the whole members. We want a situation where the 27 lawmakers will not feel intimidated and the five legislators (anti-Amaechi) will not feel overwhelmed. We want them to go into the House of Assembly, as one body, representing the interest of Rivers State. For now, it is still unsafe to allow them to sit, which will amount to taking a big risk, because of the political crisis.

How can the Rivers crisis be resolved?

The crisis is because of political in-

•Senator Ake

terest. All the grandstanding is for political relevance. Peace will definitely come. The only concern is that anybody who has gone too far, how does he retrace his steps? We must always put the interest of the state first, because the state is bigger than individuals.

The Minister of State for Education, Chief Nyesom Wike, allegedly said he would make Rivers State ungovernable for Amaechi. How will you react to this statement?

This is an unfortunate period in our lives, in the political history of Rivers State, that some of these things are happening. We are not proud of the crisis. Rivers State has civilised, well educated and well exposed people, but what is coming out of the state is shocking to many people.

First, the comment by Obuah is unfortunate and condemnable. It is not an educated comment. It was made from an uninformed point of view.

He should know that there is protocol and the protocol puts the governor ahead of other individuals in the state, whether he is suspended from the PDP or not. The governor remains the father of the state, whether anybody likes it or not.

Anybody who is addressing the governor must know that he is addressing the political father of the state. If you are addressing him in any way short of it, shows that the person does not know where he stands.

Obuah is disrespectful, not only to Governor Amaechi, but to the whole Rivers people. It is not an issue to be taken lightly or in a comic way. Governor Amaechi is the head of Rivers State. Desperation should not push you to regret many years later, your actions of today. Your children, too, will be shocked seeing the playback, that their dad spoke in a manner not expected of a public officer.

It is sad that Wike could say he would make Rivers State ungovernable and life uncomfortable for Gov-

‘The Senate sent a team to Rivers State to investigate the crisis. With what they saw, it was sufficient to take over the functions of the House of Assembly of 32 persons, with 27 of them indicating that the National Assembly should take over the functions of the House of Assembly, because of the huge risk involved in sitting. The five lawmakers (anti-Amaechi) insisted on sitting, while the 27 persons (pro-Amaechi) said they would not be able to sit’

ernor Amaechi. He should be called to order, he should stop the unguarded utterances, for peace to reign in Rivers State.

Governor Amaechi and Chief Wike are both from Ikwerre,. Will it be ideal for another Ikwerre person to succeed him?

I am not against Wike’s governorship ambition in 2015 or anybody showing interest in any position.

There is no law against it. We only have moral and political understanding that allows people to indicate their interests, according to the dictates of the moment.

If you are interested in a political office, you should not cause mayhem or problem for people, especially with Wike’s declaration that people will no longer be sleeping with their eyes closed. It is condemnable. When Amaechi was contesting, he was not the only person. People showed interest, but the understanding was there, like an unwritten rule, for positions to go elsewhere, not to be retained in the same place. All of us are reasonable about it, because we want peace in Rivers State. We want everybody to have a sense of belonging. That is why we feel that no matter how good you are, you should allow others to partake. Wike’s ambition is not wrong, but the way he is going about it is heating up the polity.

How would you describe the roles of President Goodluck Jonathanin and his wife, Dame Patience, in the Rivers PDP crisis?

If not that Dame Patience Jonathan stated that the problem with Governor Amaechi started four years ago, when they visited Okrika, I will not hang the problem of Rivers State on anybody. Individuals in Rivers State allowed themselves to be used.

If they did not allow themselves to be used, all these things (crises) would not have happened. The President and his wife should show interest in what happens in Rivers State and how the problem can be solved. Not doing anything is not good enough, because if Rivers State boils, Bayelsa will be affected. If Bayelsa State boils, Rivers will be affected. Rivers and Bayelsa states were together in the old Rivers State.

President Jonathan is a Rivers man.

There should be peace in Rivers State, before going out to ensure peace elsewhere.

What is your reaction to the fracas in the Rivers State House of Assembly?

Bipi has no case whatsoever. Some of them are just instruments that people are using. The moment the people who are using them as instruments stop, they have no role to play. It is just unfortunate that some of them allow themselves to be used that way. Bipi is not the issue. The issues are the people who are the paymasters.

There are people with major interests. Bipi has no role to play. Bipi is just talking for the sake of trying to prove that he can be speaker. He is ignorant. The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is very clear on how a speaker can be impeached. How can five lawmakers, in a 32-member Assembly, impeach the speaker (Otelemaba Dan Amachree)?

Is Governor Amaechi not being distracted by the crisis?

The crisis is not distracting Governor Amaechi. It is exerting him more. He is putting in more man hours to his job, than what it used to be. In the thick of the crisis, he still sent the budget to the Rivers House of Assembly, after the five pro-Wike lawmakers took over the place. The 27 lawmakers still went back and sat.

The interest of the opposition is to distract Governor Amaechi and to later use it against him, but he is surprisingly relaxed, doing his job.

Kalu calls for resolution of PDP crisis

F

ORMER Abia State Governor Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu has called for the quick resolution of the crisis facing the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Kalu, who is one of the founding fathers of the party, said the splitting of the party into factions, following its recent special national convention, should be handled with care so that the prediction that the party will implode before 2015 does not come true.

The former governor said in a statement by his Special Adviser, Oyekunle Oyewumi, that the two sides to the conflict should quickly find a common ground to resolve their differences.

Kalu said: “Both former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Dr. Bamanga Tukur as seasoned politicians, no doubt, have what it takes to resolve political differences. It is in the interest of the party and Nigerians for this to be sorted out as quickly as possible, considering the fact that the party is in government at the federal level and in most states.

“A house divided against itself will, obviously, not stand. And it is not in our interest both as founders and joiners for us not to bring down the house we laboured very hard to build.”

Kalu called on the stakeholders in the party, especially former and current members of the Board of Trustees, the National Working Committee and the National Executive Council, to intervene urgently before the crisis gets out of control.

‘PPA’s agenda for Nigerians’

T

By Chinaka Okoro

HE National Publicity Secretary of the Progressive Peoples Alliance (PPA), Dr Orikeze Ajumbe, has attributed the lack of good governance in the countryto insincerity and selfishness on the part of the leaders.

He said the 14-years old Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has ruined the country.

Ajumbe said that Nigeria’s socio-economic and political woes have reflected the lack of vision and purposeful leadership the PDP. He told reporters in Owerri, Imo State capital, that the PPA is being repositioned to provide quality leadership that would Nigeria one of the 20 leading economies of the world by 2020.

On the chances of PPA, which he said, is undergoing some rebranding, Ajumbe said: “We are determined to revive the party and make it have more national outlook. By 2015, the PPA will win many states in the federation, especially, in the Southeast. That is why we are undergoing rebranding. This means changing the party’s logo, changing the name to All Progressives Peoples Alliance (APPA), which was adopted during the party’s national convention on July 10, 2013.

“We are also injecting resources in the states and local government areas to make the party spread to the grassroots and make it have more national outlook.”

He added: “We have four structures of PPA one of which is Njiko Igbo which is the political arm of the party. It is meant to waken the political consciousness of the people.”

On how the Igbo could win the Presidency, Ajumbe advised that “Ndigbo should come together and work under one umbrella. Our campaign therefore is aimed at sensitising the Igbo towards recognising the platform on which they could realise the dream of occupying the presidency.”

The Publicity Secretary also said that the party would work hard to develop other sectors of the economy and make the country less dependent on oil.

He stressed: “An APPA government would pay less attention to revenue from oil and make other sectors of the economy more viable. The APPA will significantly develop the agricultural sector to be seen as an economic activity which will engage millions of jobless Nigerians. The party will also develop the small and medium enterprises which are core means of creating employment.

“Through this, the country would witness tremendous economic growth and development as was the case during the First Republic when agriculture was the main revenue earner for the country”.

Ajumbe emphasised that PPA party would consciously develop the power sector to give Nigerians 24-hour electricity supply. This, he said, would be a catalyst to the country’s economy, noting that most businesses are not thriving because there is no steady power supply.

He lamented that kidnapping, armed robbery and youths’ restiveness became the orders of the day because of unemployment.

On security, Ajumbe said PPA government will ensure that numbers of unemployed Nigerians are usefully engaged, stressing that, when people have genuine means of livelihood, their tendency to take to crime would reduce.

On education, Ajumbe lambasted the Federal Government for paying lip-service to its development, maintaining that education is pivotal to any country’s advancement.

He said: “It is worrisome that the Federal Government would enter into agreement with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) towards improving infrastructural facilities in public universities and renege on it. The billions and trillions of Naira spent on matters that are not in the public interest should have been channelled towards developing the sector.

“It is this lack of commitment to the development of the education sector that has resulted in the lack of quality in the sector. Most universities in Nigeria are nothing but glorified secondary schools. These grim situations the APPA government would address when the opportunity comes”.

Ajumbe chided the PDP for creating tension in the country.

He said that it was unfortunate and unbecoming of a ruling party to be acutely rocked by crises, noting that “the party’s inability to manage its internal problems rubs off on the entire •Ajumbe country”

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HEALTH

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THE NATION

E-mail:- health@thenationonlineng.net

More men are overcoming the infertility challenge Gone are the days when men refused to go for fertility treatment. Today, the number walking into fertility centres for treatment is on the rise, reports OYEYEMI GBENGAMUSTAPHA.

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HE paradigm is shifting in infertility treatment as men now walk into fertility centres to be screened, without reservations. For the result shows that they have low sperm count or poor sperm motility, they obtain treatment, without batting an eyelid.

They actually get results, thanks to Intracytoplasmic Morphologically-selected Sperm Injection (IMSI) which was first introduced as an In-vitro-Fertilisation (IVF) technique in 2004. It is now available in Nigeria.

Akeem Lawal (not real names) who is now a father a quadruplet was a patron. though he declined going into the details of his treatment, he said: “I am now a proud father. I accompanied my wife to the fertility centre, was screened and I was told of the need to improve my sperm production, and I agreed to be given some drugs to boost my sperm production. To day the rest is history.”

Infertility is defined by the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) as a disease of the reproductive system that impairs the body’s ability to perform the basic function of reproduction. Although conceiving a child may seem to be simple and natural, the physiological process is quite complicated and depends on the proper function of many factors.

But what would make a Nigerian man walk into a fertility centre, submit himself for screenings and all other protocols involved in IVF, when male issue is the factor? The Managing Director, Nordica Fertility Centre, Dr. Abayomi Ajayi said: “Impressive results that are spread either by words of mouth, media or other ways are the reasons Nigerian men are now accessing treatment. The macho thing is disappearing. There is no shame in it.

“If there is a need for a man to break down and weep and get comforted by his wife, there is no big deal in that. Let him go ahead. More so there are solutions to male infertility as a factor in fertility. We are seeing more male issues than what we saw 10 years ago. The sperm parameters are becoming worse, and therefore it is necessary to bring it to the front burner and we cannot talk about it without talking about technology that offers hope, because we know there is no drug right now that solves the problem of deranged sperm count or bad sperm parameters.

Intra-cytoplasmic Morphologically-selected Sperm (IMSI) is helpful.

“There are about 30 per cent decline in sperm count of men presenting now compared with 10 years ago. This is based on patients attending my clinic and not the whole nation.

“IMSI is where a single sperm is injected into an egg, the only difference is that the sperm is selected using a very powerful microscope compared to the Intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) microscope. The image of the sperm is magnified around 6,000 times during IMSI and this allows the embryologist to analyse it in greater detail and choose the healthiestlooking one for injection.”

And what are some of his findings in the last 10 years that he had established his clinic, Nordica Fertility Centre. Dr Ajayi said: “Heat is a factor in male infertility. The enzymes required for the production of sperm are very sensitive to heat. Men, who frequent saunas or hot tubs, wear tight pants, sit at a desk all day, or stand in front of a hot stove may be inadvertently heating their testicles to such a degree that they can’t make sperm and get their partners pregnant. The reason that the testicles hang out and away from the body is that it’s about four degrees cooler than the normal body temperature. That cooler temperature is required for sperm to thrive. It is advisable to avoid overheating the reproductive organs by staying out of hot tubs and saunas, keeping laptop computers off your lap, etc. If your job requires you to sit for long periods, get up and

•Dr Ajayi

•Basic structure of the human spermatozoa

What determines sperm health?

Sperm health depends on various factors, including quantity, quality and movement: • Quantity. You’re most likely to be fertile if your ejaculate — the semen discharged in a single ejaculation — contains more than 15 million sperm per milliliter.

• Quality. Normal sperm have oval heads and long tails, which work together to propel them forward. The more sperm you have with a normal shape and structure, the more

likely you are to be fertile.

• Movement. To reach and penetrate an egg, sperm must move — wriggling and swimming through a woman’s cervix, uterus and fallopian tubes. This is known as motility. You’re most likely to be fertile if more than 40 percent of your sperm are moving.

move around frequently, and don’t sit with your legs crossed. Wear loose-fitting underwear and clothing.

“Varicoceles also play a role. Varicoceles are varicose veins in the scrotum. The enlarged or dilated veins cause blood to pool, which raises the temperature in the scrotum; the heat affects sperm production. This is the most common cause of male infertility. Sex with a partner, at the wrong time, especially if the man is a high octave careerist. Likewise, men who take the ulcer drug cimetidine (Tagamet) or the heart drug digitalis have low sperm counts. A number of drugs used to treat high blood pressure may affect ejaculation, the “motility,” or swimming ability, of sperm, do prevent the sperm from reaching the egg, and the antibiotics sometimes used to treat urinary tract infections can inhibit sperm production.

He continued: “I also experienced a client receiving testicular cancer treatment. That type is the most common cancer in men between the ages of 15 and 45, termed Prime fertility years, though cancer does not lead to infertility, the treatment does. The treatments that cure cancer in men often cause them to become permanently sterile. Treatments for some cancers such as leukemia, lymphoma, and tumours often cause only temporary sterility. The best way to ensure that a man who is being treated for testicular cancer can reproduce with his sperm is to preserve his sperm. Freeze as many samples as you possibly can before treatment, and we can do that. Lifestyle that brings stress; being overweight or under weight is also an issue.

Men who are underweight may have lower than normal levels of testosterone, and being either under- or overweight has been linked

with a lower sperm count and concentration.

In men, stress has been shown to affect fertility by both lowering sperm volume and raising the percentage of abnormal sperm. Age is also important. The risk of having a child with chromosomal abnormalities, especially Down syndrome, rises after age 35 for men, just as it does for women. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), smoking,

•Source: www.mayoclinic.com

drinking also impact negatively on the sperm.”

He added: “IMSI is something we need to talk about. From our findings, IMSI has increased pregnancy rates in people with previous failures in ICSI, and we also saw there were less abortion rates. IMSI is only indicated when there is less than two million sperm count and motility less than five per cent. First, sperm count is low, then there is higher incidence of genetically deformed sperms. Much of the problems with bad sperm is genetic, and they can burn out.

“Selecting the best sperm for ICSI is not a big deal if most of the sperm are normal.

Where it becomes trickier is when you are hard pressed to find a normal appearing sperm in the sample. Some defects like sperm with two heads, huge heads, two tails, and kinked tails are easy to detect and avoid with standard magnification. Other defects, like vacuoles in the sperm head are not always glaringly obvious at the lower magnification (300x) used for selecting sperm for ICSI. “In 2001, Benjamin Bartoov, published his work showing that high magnification selection of normal sperm free of head vacuoles resulted in better pregnancy rates.

His publication further supported his conclusion that the ability to identify sperm with normal nuclear morphology using high magnification motile sperm organellar morphology examination (MSOME) was responsible for the better outcomes associated with IMSI”.

• From left: Specialist Obstetrician and Gynaecologist MART Medicare, Oluwaseun Makewu; Senior Embryologist at Medical Assisted Reproductive Centre, Mrs. Rose Ogbeche; Consultant Obstetrician/Gynaecologist Dr Lateef Akinola; Group Medical Director Prof. Oladapo Ashiru; Clinic Nutritionist, MART-Life Detox Clinic Mrs Idowu Ashiru; Head, Human Resource, Olusakun Majekodunmi; IVF Physician Dr. Chizara Okeke and Clinical Coordinator, Mrs Abiola Adewusi during a briefing in Lagos.

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ENERGY

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TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2013

THE NATION

E-mail:- energy@thenationonlineng.net

Govt advised to seek more gas buyers

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•Prof Chined Nebo

• Chief Executive Officer, Eko Distribution Company, Oladele Amoda

•Ohuabunwa

‘Our expectations of power W firms’ ILL the 13 power generation and distribution companies meet the yearnings of manufacturers? This is the question real sector operators are asking as the firms prepare for operations.

Some operators said the new generating and distribution companies must charge reasonable bills, provide efficient metering regime, good distribution networks, and access enough gas for electricty generation.

They called for improved power supply, increased access to electricity and resolving the lingering labour issues.

The Director-General, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry Mr Muda Yusuf, said there was the need for improved power supply to lift the precarious state of manufacturing concerns.

He said the firms needed to provide private-sector driven mechanisms/expertise and improved productivity to meet the expectations of manfacturers, adding that they cannot afford to fail because of the stringent processes that culiminated in their selection.

The companies are West Power and Gas; NEDC/KPECO; 4Power Consortium; Vigeo Consortium; and Aura Energy; Others are Integrated Energy Distribution and Marketing Company;Sahelian Power; Transcorp/Woodrock Consortium; Amperion; Mainstream Energy Limited;Kainji Power Plc and CMEC/EUAFRIC JV. He said individual and corporate consumers had long been expecting an efficient power sector, argu-

Stories by Akinola Ajibade

ing that power has caused a setback to the economy.

He said manufacturers’ expectations were high, considering that they had been battling shortage of power for a long time.

Yusuf said: “We expect the GENCOs and DISCOs to generate and distribute enough electricity, and further bring good expertise on board to grow the sector,” adding that the sector has suffered lethargy and required people that could demonstrate a high level of competence.”

He noted that the regulators and operators must put in place measures to protect consumers and further grow the sector, stressing that they need to guide against the exploitation of consumers. They must provide effective consumer protection policy to prevent consumers from paying ‘crazy’bills, urging that the Power Holding Company of Nigeria(PHCN) successor firms must ensure speedy resolution of labour issues, as it would help them in providing opitmal services to consumers.

The LCCI’s boss said the re-integration of former PHCN’s workers and other issues must be resolved to grow the sector. He called for synergy between the companies and the government to solve the problem of gas supply.

Yusuf said this would prevent problems such as power drops,

shedding of loads on transmission plants and power outage that characterised the PHCN regime.

Former President, Neimeth Pharmaceutical Plc Mr Mazi Ohuabunwa said with the coming of the companies, manufacturers would no longer provide their power generation firms.

Ohuabunwa said both the Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs) and bigger firms have experienced low power supply and capacity utilisation, saying the expectation is that the new entrants will turn things around.

“Owning of power plants should not be the responsibiity of the manufacturers, it is not even advisable for two or more industries to come together and own a plant.

The reason is because they are not consuming the same volume of electricity. This is aside the cost and the process of securing a plant. It is a government issue, hence the decision to allow the Bureau of Public Enterprises to handle the privitisation of the power sector. Now that the sector has been privitised, we should expect improved power supply.”

He said the informal sector operators need stable power to function, arguing that they would grow their businesses, if things go according to plans.

The Managing Director, KNB Global Services, Mr Kayode Agunbiade said the cost of providing an alternative source of power has eaten deep into his income.

He added that provision of prepaid metres would help consumers monitor their consumption and grow their businesses.

N100b subsidy claims outstanding, say operators

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HE Major Oil Marketers Association of Nigeria (MOMAN) said over N100billion subsidy’s claims, excluding interest are oustanding.

Its Secretary, Femi Olawore told The Nation that the amount would be higher when the cost of obtaining loans is factored in.

He said operators borrow to finance the importation of petroleum products, adding that they are expected to pay an agreed interests on the facilities.

He said the government has failed to meet its obligations of paying the fuel subsidies promptly, adding that the development is affecting their

operations.

He said the government has not been meeting its obligations of paying subsidies regularly to the 26 approved firms that import fuel in the country, urging that it should publish the names and the amount it has paid, adding that there has been conflicting reports on payment of subsidies.

He said the association has tried to get the subsidies paid to the members to no avail.

“We have written the government on the importance of paying the subsidies acruing to major oil marketers. We have told the government that deregulation is the final solution to the problems in the downstream sector,” adding

that without deregulation, the players in the downstream sector will continue to experience operational hitches.

He said once the sector is deregulated and the refineries are put to optimal use, the problem in the industry would reduce.

Efforts to speak to Paul Nwabuikwu, the Special Assistant to the Minister of Finance, and Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala on the issue proved abortive.

However, the government said it has paid N240, 587, 579.248 to the oil marketers. It said N48, 085,299,281.50 was paid to 19 oil marketers in July, this year.

HE Federal Government has been advised to look for buyers for its crude, following the discovery of Shale Gas in the United States.

The President, Divcon Engineering Group, Andy Ikekhide spoke during the company’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Lagos.

He said Shale Gas was a game changer that would result in prosperity for some nations and adversity for others, adding that Nigeria should look inwards and make the best of opportunities in the global smarket.

"As a player in the Nigerian oil and gas industry, I make bold to say that the discovery of shale gas in the US, China and other countries, is a game changer that can have a mixed fortune for countries across the world,” he said.

Ikekhide said the production of thev gas in commercial quantity in the US would lead to a drop in the prices of gas from Nigeria and other producers.

With the gas reserves in the United Kingdom put at 266 trillion cubic feet, France: 137 trillion cubic feet, Poland: 148 trillion, Ikekhide said Nigeria could turn the impending adversity to prosperity through timely diversification to exploration and exploitation of nonoil natural endowments. He

By Ambrose Nnaji

added that available natural resources are in huge quantities in various zones of the country.

He said the country could also add value to its crude oil production by building more refineries, creating employment and exporting white products to earn foreign exchange.

On the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB), Ikekhide appealed to the National Assembly to put the country above personal interests, and defend their mandates by the speedy passage of the bill, adding that many investors were sitting on the fence while the scramble for investable petro-dollar was becoming highly competitive by the day. " I, therefore, urge our friends in the National assembly to put economic benefits to the nation ahead of selfish, sectional, and political consideration and give urgent attention to the passage of the PIB), “ he said, adding that every opportunity will be explored by the law makers to write their names in gold by resisting external and ethnic pressures from the enemies of Nigeria and pass the PIB for the good of the nation.”

Allison-Madueke, others for confab

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HE International Conference on Petroluem Refining and Petrochemi cals will hold at the University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State be tween September 28 and 29.

Top overnment functionaries, including the Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke, and Executive Director Petroleum Technology Department, Dr. Oluwole Oluleye, are expected to deliver papers at the event.

The theme of the conference is: Creating wealth through diversification, transformation and development of our refineries and petrochemical industries.

A statement by Prof. Godwin Igwe, Executive Conference Chairman, and Director of the Centre for Gas, Refining and Petrochemicals of UNIPORT, said one of the lead paper presenters would be Mr.

N. John Erinne, the immediate past president of the Nigerian Society of Chemical Engineers. He will speak on: “Realising Nigeria’s Petrochemicals Potential.’

Others expected are the former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Mr. OdeinAjumogbia; former Minister of Science and Technology, Prof Itabassey-Ewa, Director-General/CEO, NOTAP, Federal Ministry of Science & Technology, and Managing Director of Indorama Eleme Petrochemicals Limited (IEPL), Dr. Umar Buba Bindir.

Others are the former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Mr. OdeinAjumogbia; Minister of Science and Technology, Prof ItabasseyEwa, Director-General/CEO, NOTAP, Federal Ministry of Science & Technology, and Managing Director of Indorama Eleme Petrochemicals Limited (IEPL), Dr. Umar Buba Bindir.

Govt urged on private refineries

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N oil and gas expert Mrs. RageidahAdedimeji said the privatisation of the refineries would create more jobs for youths. Mrs. Adedimeji, Managing Director, Bromshy Communication, spoke at a briefing in Lagos.

She advised the Federal Government to hasten the privatisation of the three refineries to boost the socio-economic growth of the country.

She said the development would provide jobs and reduce crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism.

She said: “If we have more refineries functioning, the country will have enough petroleum products for local consumptions, while we also export outside the country. We need more youth participation in oil and gas sector, this will keep them away from participating in

pipelines vandalism and crude oil theft.We need to develop and motivate our youth; they need to use the talent they have got to develop themselves so as to set up their own small scale enterprises,’’ Mrs. Adedimeji said the firm was partnering with the Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN) to organise a conference on youth training in oil and gas sector.

She added that the conference would be tailored around five stakeholders in the oil and gas sector.

“The CEOs of the five companies will use their own backgrounds and success story to develop and motivate the youth on how they have been able to overcome problems relating to their businesses,” she added.

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Your Sexual Health & You: Novelty Tips, Questions & Answers

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just heard about your dating site. I am a 33 year old woman looking for a man I can settle down with. Please what is the cost of joining your dating site? Thanks – Angela Angela the dating site is a free service we offer visitors to our site. There is no registration fee. Just register, upload a good picture of yourself and start making friends – Uche I am interested in penis enlargement but I cannot take pills. What else can you recommend? Mike Mike you can also use a cream like Maximus Enlargement Cream or a penis pump. Bull Fighter Pump is very good too – Uche Hello Mr Uche, I had my first orgasm after I used the Liquid Sex Orgasm Gel and Jelly Chocolate vibrator.

It was so intense that I urinated hard in the process, screaming at the top of my lungs. Is that how it happens? Mabel Dear Mabel, you did not urinate. You ejaculated. That’s right, women can ejaculate too and it is the best kind of orgasm. It is called a Squirting Orgasm and it is difficult to reach. So congratulations.

What is the best vibrator for a single woman? I need one but I don’t know anything about them – Joy Rabbit vibrators are best for single women because they do a lot of things so you don’t have to do much yourself.

Rabbits vibrate to stimulate the clitoral hood while spinning to stimulate the internal G spot and some of them thrust up and down too such as the Remote Control Rabbit Pearl and the Jenna’s Ultimate Thrusting Wall Banger. You will also need a lubricant or orgasm gel to use a vibrator. I recommend Mood Arousal Gel – Uche I need a supplement that can help with harder erections and stamina. I hear Enzyte is very good but I don’t know which one to buy - Femi Enzyte is okay. It is a daily supplement that aids sexual performance and gives men stronger erections as well.

So if you want something that you can take daily, go for Enzyte. But if you want a supplement that works

for up to three days on one pill, then get Exploding Thunder or Sex Voltz – Uche I really like your Max Width enlargement cream. I have a small penis but my girlfriend has not noticed. I use Max Width instant enlargement cream and it works. Is it possible for me to use Big Bam Boo or Max Size enlargers as well? Ofili Dear Ofili, yes you can combine them. Max Width is a cream and a temporary enlarger while Big Bamboo and Max Size are capsules that give longer lasting results – Uche I have been using the Lure Unisex Pheromone Spray for about two months and even though I don’t have an official girlfriend yet, I have a lot of female friends that like to hang out. I can easily start dating any of them. I don’t know if it is the pheromone or what but thanks anyway – Isaac You are welcome. Pheromones work to attract the opposite sex. They also give you confidence, which is a big part of attracting a mate – Uche My friend told me about this new Spanish Fly arousal supplement that is in form of tablets and that it is very good. Is it true? I know the liquid one - Samson Yes Samson, Spanish Fly comes in different brands manufactured by different companies. We have the Spanish Fly Mints by Doc Johnson that come in three flavours of chocolate, pepper mint and cherry and yes they are very good for instant arousal that will keep you horny for hours – Uche Power Zen Gold is the best erection supplement I have ever taken. The fact that it also delays ejaculation is very impressive because I have been embarrassed by this for years. Than you - Eze That’s it for today. Adults in need of these treatments/ novelties can call 08027901621 or 08051924159 or any other number here to order or they can order online at www.zeevirtualmedia.com. Zee Virtual Media delivers to you wherever you are in Nigeria. For enquiries send your emails to custserv@zeevirtualmedia.com - Uche Edochie, MD, Zee Virtual Media.

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NEWS

Protests rock Kwara over Offa rerun results

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HERE were massive protests yesterday in Kwara State following the declaration of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Abdulwaheed Olanipekun, as the winner of the last Saturday’s Offa Local Government rerun.

The protesters, who poured onto the major streets of Offa, the headquarters of the local government area, and Ilorin, the state capital, demanded the official results of the election.

The protests in Ilorin were led by the All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftains, including former chairman of the Caretaker Committee of the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in the state, Comrade Sola Iji; the Campaign Director of the ACN governorship candidate in 2011, Dr Sa’ad Omoya; Otunba Iyiola Oyedepo; Mohammed Dele Belgore’s running mate, Joshua Adeyinka and Rev. Bunmi Olusona.

The peaceful rally began at 10am at the former Congress for Progressive Change’s (CPC)’s office on Offa Road.

The protestors marched through the road via Flower Garden to the late General Abdulkarim Adisa Street in the GRA. They came out at the popular Fate Road before berthing at the KWSIEC headquarters on the road.

Heavily armed riot policemen, with their Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC), kept watch at the gate.

The inscriptions on some of the placards read: “We want out to collect our mandate”; “We demand justice”; “Yoo le

•Group urges Jonathan to intervene

Offa rerun: we’re disappointed, says Osun APC

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HE Osun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has expressed disappointment that the results of the last Saturday’s rerun in Offa Local Government of Kwara State by the State Independent Electoral Commission (KWSIEC).

In a statement by its Directorate of Communication and Strategy, the party urged Offa residents to reject the results in which the Peoples Democratic Party candidate was declared the winner.

The APC described KWSIEC’s action as “ominous of the kind of criminal complicity in electoral brigandage which the PDP plans to deploy throughout the country to stay in power against the will of the people”.

It added: “We, in the APC, are worried that such daylight robbery is still possible, despite the assurances that the electoral body would act with fairness and credibility in From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

koko lote yi”(It would be difficult this time); “Ajidagba is playing with death”; “All we are saying, give us our mandate”; “Ajidagba, ole, Barawo, thief”.

Addressing reporters, Comrade Iji said the protestors were at the KWSIEC headquarters to reject the results.

He said: “If you have been following events of Saturday till yesterday and this morning, you will discover that the local government election, which was held in Offa, Offa Local Government Area of the state, on Saturday, the results were not announced at the polling units. The results

From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

the coming elections. But from what happened in Offa, it would appear that the electoral body is least prepared to resist the PDP chicanery and blatant disregard for democratic process to perpetuate itself in power.

“If KWSIEC allows itself, at this stage, to become compromised, then the series of future elections in some states would be as good as given to the PDP at the local and state levels, where they are in control.

“At least, that is the message from Offa by the PDP, in collaboration with KWSIEC. We should warn at this stage that this kind of brigandage would be a diabolical receipt for anarchy, the type that could have the consequences of which the world has been predicting for Nigeria.”

The party urged good-spirited Nigerians to prevail on the PDP and KWSIEC not to set Kwara State ablaze through senseless electoral fraud.

were collated at all the 12 wards. We approached the local government collation centres, where we expected that the results collated at the wards would be collated for final announcement of the winner of the election.

“Unfortunately, the Returning Officer, who is the Local Government Electoral Officer of the Kwara State Independent Electoral Commission (KWSIEC), just disappeared. He absconded. We waited there till about 10pm before the materials were moved to the headquarters of KWSIEC in Ilorin that night.

“We met with the Chairman of KWSIEC, Dr Uthman Ajidagba; he feigned ignorance. He said he didn’t know

where the electoral officer was and some of his junior officers. We met with the chairman and about three or four other officers of the commission. They promised that the result would be announced. They said we should return on Sunday morning by 10am. But surprisingly, by around 5am, we started hearing from Kwara Radio the same KWSIEC chairman announcing the false results.

“It was not in his place to announce any result. The results ought to be announced at the point where the collation ought to have been concluded, which is the local government headquarters of KWSIEC. So, for him to as-

sume illegally the responsibility of the Returning Officer for the election in a local government is not acceptable.

“We have rejected the results because he knew they were not the results of the election conducted in Offa on Saturday. So, we are here to register our protest, to tell the world that KWSIEC has started on a journey it cannot foretell because our party, the APC, will not accept it.”

A former Aviation Minister, Femi Fani-Kayode, tweeted yesterday: “The APC won the election in Offa (on Saturday).

Sadly, it has been announced that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) won. If this happens in the 2015 election, Nigeria will burn.”

The tweet has since provoked widespread comments, with some hailing the politician’s “patriotic” tweet and others cautioning against violence.

Prominent twitter handles from Kwara, led by @kwhistleblower and @fynebony, have dubbed the Offa rerun fiasco as Ajidagbagate, named after the KWSIEC chairman, Dr Uthman Ajidagba.

A group, Kwara New Initiatives, said Kwara State, urged President Goodluck Jonathan to prevail on the state government to correct the electoral heist..

In a statement, the group’s Coordinator, Mr. Atolagbe Ayansola said: “The Radio Kwara announcement of the fake results is delusional, criminal and out of tune with democratic norms and civility.”

•Oyo State Governor Abiola Ajimobi (inset) addressing members of the Youth Empowerment Scheme of Oyo State (YES-O) at the Lekan Salami Sports Complex, Adamasingba, Ibadan... yesterday.

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HE Plateau State Government yesterday said gunmen, on Sunday night, killed six members of two families in the state.

A statement in Jos, the state capital, by the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Mr Yiljap Abraham, confirmed the killings.

Yiljap said: “The Plateau State Government has received reports of attacks on some communities in the state with great indignation.

“The unprovoked killing of six members of two families in their homes in Kungte village, Kanadap (near

Gunmen kill six in fresh Plateau attacks From Yusufu Aminu Idegu, Jos

Marraraban Jama’a) in Kuru District of Jos South Local Government Area by gunmen on Sunday, September 1, is an evil and wicked act that should be condemned by all members of society.

“It is also a display of cowardice by the perpetrators who, under the cover of darkness, deliberately chose to visit violence on vulnerable members of society - women and children - to achieve clearly devilish designs.

“Such attacks, coming at a time the state has been mostly peaceful for quite some time, appears a desper-

•Police confirm killing of five family members

ate attempt to reverse the gains of our hard-earned efforts in breaking down the barriers of ethnic and religious intolerance and thereby rebuilding the bridges of communal consensus.

“Such intentions will fail because Plateau people have made up their minds to live in peace with one another and, together with the state government and security agencies, they will frustrate every attempt at taking the state back to the days of bloodshed and gloom. The current level of peace in the

state is for consolidation, not evaporation!

“The government shares the pains of victims of these heinous crimes and declares that those behind such acts will face justice in the long run. We call on communities to remain alert always and work closely with security agencies in the sustenance of peace.

“Meantime, security agencies have intensified their cordon-and-search operations and will take other steps to enforce their constitutional responsibility of maintaining law and order.”

The Plateau State Police Command yesterday confirmed the killing of five members of a family at Kunte village, near Maraba Jama’a, in Jos South Local Government Area of the state, by some gunmen.

Police spokesman, Felicia Anslem, a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Jos, the state capital, that the murder took place around 10.45pm on September 1.

Anslem said those killed were a “father, mother and three children”.

Bible Society to hold marathon reading

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HE Bible Society of Nigeria (BSN) will hold a marathon Bible reading in Lagos, from September 9 till 13.

The programme will hold simultaneously at 47 centres.

It is aimed at giving participants the opportunity to read the Bible in their languages, such as English, Isoko, Igala, Yoruba, Efik, Igbo, Hausa, Nupe, Khana, Urhobo, Fulfude, Jju, Bokyi, Edo, Arabic, Tiv, Itsekiri, Kanuri, among others. The participants are to choose from any of the languages.

Participants must be Christians, irrespective of their denomination, age or sex. They will have the joy of reading the Bible in their languages, help someone else hear the Word of God in a new way and join others in continuous reading of the Bible.

Jonathan seeks anti-vandalism cooperation From John Ofikhenua, Abuja

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RESIDENT Gookluck Jonathan yesterday sought the cooperation of Nigerians to win the battle aginst vandalism and economic saboteurs among security agencies and the private owners of infrastructure.

Represented by Vice President Namadi Sambo at a two-day stakeholders’ forum on the Protection of Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI) in Abuja, the President said he would inaugurate a component of the National Crisis Management Centre yesterday.

The event was at the instance of the National Security Adviser to the President.

But Jonathan said the centre would, among other things, drive coordination when dealing with major national incidents.

He said: ”Later today, I will be inaugurating a component of the National Crisis Management Centre, which will, among other things, facilitate this coordination when dealing with major national incidents.

“It is envisaged that similar crisis centres will be established at the state and local government levels, employing the ICT infrastructure provided by the National Security Adviser, who will continue to coordinate the activities of all stakeholders in the security sector.”

The spokesperson said investigation into the killings has begun, adding that the police were doing their best to apprehend the culprits.

“The police had dispatched a team to search for the perpetrators of this criminal act, so that they would be brought to justice,” she said.

Anslem said the incident was neither a crisis nor connected with religious or ethnic inclination but was purely an act of criminality.

“The moment something like this happens, many people tend give other meanings, but it was purely a criminal act, which must be taken as such,” she said.

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2013

54

EQUITIES NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE

Equities open September on positive note

DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 2-09-13

•Investors swap 71% equity stake in Arbico

N

IGERIAN equities opened the week and new month with a tinge of bullish resurgence, as gains by highly capitalised manufacturers and banks mitigated widespread losses that evoked the haunting downtrend in the previous month.

The highlight of the market transactions was the exchange of about 71 per cent equity stake in Arbico Plc, a construction company. A reliable market source said the transactions on Arbico were cross deals, implying perfection of previously arranged deals through the stock market.

Aggregate market capitalisation of all equities on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) rose by N28 billion to N11.525 trillion as against N11.497 trillion. Average index at the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), the All Share Index (ASI), appreciated by 0.25 per cent from 36,248.53 points to 36,337.15 points.

With 26 gainers to 29 losers, gains by large-cap fast moving consumer goods companies and banks skewed the overall market situation as

By Taofik Salako

investors staked about N2.4 billion in above-average transactions.

Unilever Nigeria topped the gainers’ list with a gain of N3.80 to close at N61.50.

GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Nigeria followed with a gain of N1.50 to close at N60. PZ Cussons Nigeria gathered N1.10 to close at N38.90. International Breweries chalked up 98 kobo to close at N21.60.

Union Bank of Nigeria added 70 kobo to close at N11. Guaranty Trust Bank rose by 62 kobo to close at N25.15. Jos International Breweries garnered 29 kobo to close at N3.22. Stanbic IBTC Holdings rose by 27 kobo to close at N16.50. Paints Manufacturing Company gained 17 kobo to close at N1.87 while Zenith Bank added 14 kobo to close at N19.85 per share.

The positive start yesterday moderated the negative impact of the major reversal witnessed in August, when equities lost N510 billion. The reversal in August shaved average year-to-date capital gains from about N3.03 tril-

lion by the end of July to N2.52 trillion by the end of August. Indexed, average returns at the market shrank to 29.10 per cent for the eightmonth period as against 35.03 per cent recorded by the seventh month.

Turnover was around average yesterday with the exchange of 256.91 million shares valued at N2.39 billion in 4,466 deals. Arbico Plc was the most active stock with a turnover of 105.41 million shares valued at N532.33 million in seven deals. The turnover yesterday represented 70.98 per cent of the construction company’s total outstanding shares of 148.5 million ordinary shares. The transactions depressed Arbico’s share price by 55 kobo to N5.05. However, it was not clear whether the transfers were between existing portfolios of shareholders or exchange of ownerships.

On the downside, Lafarge Cement Wapco Nigeria recorded the highest loss of N2.10 to close at N90.90.

Ashaka Cement followed with a loss of N1 to close at N20. Nigerian Breweries dropped by 82 kobo to N164.18. Presco lost 40 kobo to close at N36.99. Evans Medical dropped by 38 kobo to N3.47 while Ecobank Transnational Incorporated declined by34 kobo to N14.30 per share.

NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 2-09-13

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2013

55

MONEY LINK

Why lending rates go up, by Access Bank’s boss

F

REQUENT liquidity tightening measures, employment of foreign exchange mechanism to stabilise naira and huge cost of banking operations, have been identified as major causes of the rising lending rates in Nigeria.

Speaking on the background of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)’s Cash Reserve Requirements policy for banks at a media parley in Lagos, the Group Managing Director, Access Bank Plc, Mr Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, said the huge interest rates charged in the industry are both regulatory and institutional in nature.

He said CBN’s monetary tightening policy has helped in reducing money in circulation, as well

By Simeon Ebulu and Akinola Ajibade

as spiking up lending rates of banks, adding that the naira would experienced further devaluation, if the apex bank had not put in place the liquidity tightening measures.

He said: “If you look at the BRICS nations - Brazil, Rusia, India, China and South Africa, you will observe that they are passing through tough economic situation. In South Africa, the policy response is monetary tightening and to do that, there is the need to raise the interest rate.”

He argued that our currency is going to be hammered if the CBN does not tighten liquidity. He said three reasons are responsible for this de-

velopment. First, he said Nigeria is wholly dependent on oil which is the source of our foreign exchange, two, the government has control over the foreign currency through some constitutional provisions, and that Nigeria is not a highly manufacturing country, implying that we depend significantly on foreign currency for trade and commerce.

He exolained that whatever happened at the foreign exchange market affects the prices of goods and services in the country, saying when there is depreciation, it traumatises the economy.

He said the industry’s cost of operations is growing, arguing that the development has resulted in hike in lending rates.

AMCON seeks bids for Enterprise Bank’s sale

T

HE Asset Management Company of Nigeria (AMCON), said it was seeking prospective investors to buy 100 per cent of its shareholding in Enterprise Bank, the first of Nigeria’s three nationalised lenders to be put up for sale.

Reuters report said AMCON, which holds non-performing assets of the troubled banks, in July appointed Citigroup and Africa-focused investment bank, Vetiva Capital to manage the divestment.

AMCON said in a public notice, that prospective buyers will be required to submit their bids by September 20, and show evidence of

The cost of providing alternative power supply, technology, security, among others, is huge, he said, adding that these costs are factored into the cost of financing credit.

The Acess Bank’s chief said banks charge differential rates, depending on their operations. “It’s not everybody that is getting loans at 23 per cent. For instance, our average lending rate weighted is about 14 per cent, including government.”

He said operating cost of Nigerian banks is nothing less than six per cent of banks’ balance sheet.

The cost of running bank’ branches is high. Look at the cost of power, it is extremely high.”

He said Acess Bank has adopted best practices framework with the aim of becoming one of the top three banks in Nigeria and also to be the most respected African bank, in 2018.

Stories by Collins Nweze

financing capacity.

The Central Bank of Nigeria, rescued nine lenders in a $4 billion bailout in 2009, after reckless lending and lax governance left them undercapitalised. The regulator told them to find new investors before a deadline, or face nationalisation.

Only six of them met the deadline.

The others, Afribank, Spring Bank and Bank PHB, were nationalised in 2011. AMCON then recapitalised them and changed their names to Mainstreet Bank, Enterprise Bank and Keystone Bank, respectively.

E

•AMCON CEO, Mustafa Chike-Obi

Based on Enterprise Bank’s 2012 audited accounts, the bank has seven subsidiaries, 150 branches with total assets of N263.5 billion ($1.6 billion) and total equity of N31.9 billion ($195.3 million), AMCON said in the notice.

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

Ecobank ’s account not misstated, says lender

COBANK Transnational Incorporated (ETI) yesterday stated that reports about its 2012 accounts were inaccurate. In a statement, the lender, said the 2012 consolidated accounts of ETI were audited and certified independently by PriceWaterhouse Coopers.

It said the accounts were published under International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), adding that contrary to media reports, there was no allegation

WHOLESALE DUTCH AUCTION SYSTEM Amount Offered ($) 350m 350m 350m

MANAGED FUNDS Initial Quotation Price N8250.00 N1000.00

NIDF NESF

OBB Rate Call Rate

Current Market 5495.33 N552.20

Price Loss 2754.67 447.80

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

Amount 30m 46.7m 50m

SYMBOL

O/PRICE

Rate % 10.96 9.62 12.34

Date 28-04-2012 “ 14-04-2012

GAINERS AS AT 2-09-13

PAINTCOM JOSBREW DNMEYER WAPIC VONO ABCTRANS UBN UNILEVER CONTINSURE INTBREW

1.70 2.93 1.43 0.82 0.97 0.77 10.30 57.70 1.22 20.62

C/PRICE 1.87 3.22 1.57 0.90 1.06 0.84 11.00 61.50 1.28 21.60

EXHANGE RATE 6-03-12 Currency

INTERBANK RATES 7.9-10% 10-11%

CHANGE 0.17 0.29 0.14 0.08 0.09 0.07 0.70 3.80 0.06 0.98

Year Start Offer

Current Before

Current After

NGN USD

147.6000

149.7100

150.7100

-2.11

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

239.4810 212.4997

244.0123 207.9023

245.6422 209.2910

-2.57 -1.51

149.7450

154.0000

154.3000

-3.04

152.0000

153.0000

155.5000

-2.30

Parallel Market

153.0000

154.0000

156.0000

-1.96

TRANSEXPR THOMASWY EVANSMED ARBICO IHS ETERNA INTENEGINS MAYBAKER AFRIPRUD UBCAP

O/PRICE 1.00 0.81 3.85 5.60 2.35 3.06 1.08 2.29 2.00 1.39

C/PRICE 0.90 0.73 3.47 5.05 2.12 2.77 0.98 2.10 1.85 1.29

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%

Movement

Amount Sold ($) 150m 138m 113m

Exchange Rate (N) 155.2 155.8 155.7

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

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

% Change -1.44% -1.44%

MEMORANDUM QUOTATIONS Name

CHANGE 0.10 0.08 0.38 0.55 0.23 0.29 0.10 0.19 0.15 0.10

Amount Demanded ($) 150m 138m 113m

CAPITAL MARKET INDEX

CUV Start %

LOSERS AS AT 2-09-13

SYMBOL

that these accounts were misstated.

The bank also promised to cooperate with regulators in its 34 African markets where it operates.

“ETI will continue to cooperate fully with any of the regulators in its 34 African markets. ETI fully subscribes to strong ethical standards and transparency and continues to value the role of regulators in all jurisdictions in which it operates,” the statement said.

DATA BANK

FGN BONDS Tenor

•Aig-Imouhkede

Offer Price

Bid Price

ARM AGGRESSIVE GROWTH 9.17 9.08 KAKAWA GUARANTEED 1.00 1.00 STANBIC IBTC GUARANTE INVE 140.55 140.05 AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUND 156.04 155.62 LOTUS CAPITAL HALAL 0.80 0.78 BGL SAPPHIRE FUND 1.16 1.16 BGL NUBIAN FUND 1.18 1.16 FBN MONEY MARKET FUND 100.00 100.00 FBN FIXED INCOME FUND 1,000.00 1,000.00 NIGERIA INTERNATIONAL DEB. 1,814.25 1,810.95 PARAMOUNT EQUITY FUND 13.97 13.29 CONTINENTAL UNIT TRUST 1.39 1.33 CENTRE-POINT UNIT TRUST 1.87 1.80 STANBIC IBTC NIG EQUITY 11.053.39 10,725.71 • ARM AGGRESSIVE • KAKAWA GUARANTEED • STANBIC IBTC GUARANTE • AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUNDARM AGGRESSIVE • 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 TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2013

56

NEWS JTF impounds barges of stolen crude

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•Arrests 13 suspects

HE Joint Task Force (JTF), codenamed Operation Pulo Shield, has intercepted two barges laden with suspected stolen crude oil in the creeks of the Niger Delta.

The barges, containing 16 compartments filled with the product, were impounded by troops of the 5 Battalion on Kasabobo creeks, Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.

JTF's Media Coordinator Lt. Col. Onyema Nwachukwu said the vessels, CWTC 16 and TIKORO 2, were impounded during a week-long anti-oil theft patrol.

The media coordinator said the operation was carried out to sanitise the waterways in the local government, which he said was notorious for oil theft and pipeline vandalism.

He noted that the Commander, Sector 2 of JTF, Brig-Gen Osasogie Uzamere, embarked on the operation, following reports that activities of oil thieves had remained endemic in the area.

Col. Nwachukwu said the troops also raided other parts of the local government and destroyed eight illegal refineries on Ogbenibiri, Kugbie and Forupa waterways.

According to him, seven steel underground reser-

From Mike Odiegwu, Yenagoa

voirs concealed with canopies were destroyed by the troops.

He said the patrol team of 146 Battalion of JTF also arrested four suspects, who were involved in illegal refining of crude oil at George Kiri near Bonny Island in Rivers State.

The JTF spokesman said 21 drums containing illegally refined Automated Gas Oil (AGO) in four speedboats were recovered from the suspects.

Col Nwachukwu said troops of 19 Battalion in another raidoperating in Delta State arrested seven pipeline vandals in Atiowowo, Kolokogbene and Ejere junction of Warri North and Warri South local government areas.

"The arrest led to the destruction of five illegal distillation sites, 15 open wooden boats, 10 surface tanks and 112 drums.

"Also recovered from the suspects were a hand drilling machine, drilling pipe, hoses, hammers and cutlasses.

"The troops also closed 19 dugout pits filled with stolen crude oil. Two suspects were taken into custody during the operation and will be handed over to prosecuting security agencies," he said.

•Pedestrians on Igbogene-Okolobiri Bridge in Bayelsa State, which was closed to traffic for structural defects.

PHOTO:NAN

Group applies for bail for stowaway teenager

A

GROUP, De Raufs' Volunteer Group, yesterday applied to stand as surety for 15-year-old Daniel Oikhena, a Junior Secondary School (JSS) I pupil in Benin, Edo State capital, who hid in the tyre compartment of an Arik Air flight from Benin to Lagos on August 24.

He was arrested and had been in the custody of the State Security Service (SSS).

The group, said to be backed

by Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola, had offered Daniel scholarship up to university level to help him realise his dream of travelling by air legitimately.

Its Director-General, Amitolu Shittu, told reporters that a team of lawyers led by Yinka Muyiwa and Nafiu Adeniyi were at the Shangisha, Lagos office of the SSS to apply

My son has caused me trauma, says mum

M

OTHER of Daniel Oikhena, Evelyn, yesterday said her son’s misadventure has caused her “serious psychological trauma”.

She said she was yet to know his whereabouts.

Daniel “flew” to Lagos in the tyre compartment of an Arik fight thinking he was heading to the United States of America.

He was caught in Lagos and since remained in the custody of the State Security Services (SSS).

Evelyn, who spoke in a petition written by her counsel, Olayiwola Afolabi, called for her son’s immediate release.

By Joseph Jibueze

for administrative bail for Daniel.

He said the group wants to ensure that he is released from custody.

Shittu said the boy has been held beyond the constitutionally-approved period, adding that he should be released so that he can concentrate on his studies.

"The SSS officials told our lawyers that the boy was not detained but merely delayed for security reasons and we want to believe them.

"They are asking that the mother of the boy should come for him and that he would be released today (yesterday).

"On our part, the Lagos State Coordinator of De Raufs' has been asked to make necessary accommodation arrangements for the boy and his mother, but should they fail to release him as promised, we will be compelled to proceed to court to seek his immediate release," Shittu said.

Besides, Shittu added that a briefing would be addressed as soon as the boy is released.

"We believe that the little boy's ambition should be nurtured through qualitative education and we are ready to give him all the necessary

From Osagie Otabor, Benin

She said he was a juvenile, adding that his continued detention would hinder the formalisation of the scholarship of him by a foundation.

“We just want to remind you of what Yakubu Datti, who is the General Manager of Corporate Communications, Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) said in respect to this matter and we quote him, “Arik is liable for the circumstances leading to the stowaway of a teenage boy on its aircraft at the Benin Airport”.

support to make his dream a reality.

"We are sincerely willing to offer him the scholarship in order to encourage thousands of teenagers who are ambitious, because the truth is, our leaders in Nigeria have failed on their part to see the potentiality of the little boy," Shittu said.

It was learnt that Daniel's dream was to travel by air.

He never told anyone about his passion to be on a plane, not even his mother. His only confidant was his younger brother who he always told that he would one day travel abroad on an aircraft.

Daniel survived the flight to the Murtala Muhammed Airport in Ikeja, Lagos. It was not until he was caught in Lagos under the Arik aircraft that the stowaway realised the risk he had taken.

Following his arrest and story in the news, security agencies went to Benin for his parents. They got his mother, Mrs. Evelyn Oikhena, who was quizzed at the Benin office of the Directorate of Security Services (DSS).

Mrs. Oikhena had said: "When we started looking for him, his nine-year-old brother told me that anytime they were watching movies, Daniel

always said he would travel abroad. The boy asked me to check for Daniel at the airport.

I did not believe him.

"I left home to pass the night at my elder sister's home.

When I came back the following morning, my daughter told me that she and Daniel had an argument on Friday night. She said she did not find him the following morning."

Mrs. Oikhena debunked the insinuation that the boy might have made his dangerous journeybecause of illtreatment meted out to him at home.

She said: "I did not maltreat him. I don't even joke with my children's education; I give them the best education.

Everybody knows me. Ask of me at Oba Market (in Benin).

The only thing that bothers me now is how my daughter will go to school, a Federal Government College."

Search for Edo kidnap victims continues From Osagie Otabor, Benin

S

ECURITY agencies have intensified the search for kidnapped victims who are yet to be released by their abductors.

Among them are a primary school teacher and her three children, Mike Ozekhome, his driver, and a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Athanasiouc Ogbome.

Mrs. P. Elebe and her children were abducted on August 18 on their way to church.

Her husband, Nathaniel, has been hospitalised, following a shock over the kidnappings. The family is silent on the ransom.

Ozekhome, his driver and Ogbome were abducted the same day on the Benin-Auchi road on August 23.

Police sources said they expected the teacher and her children to be released last Friday but nothing was done.

The source said local vigilance group members have been mobilised.

THE NATION TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 3, 2013

57

NEWS

T

Ebonyi council boss held for NCP elects Okonkwo as candidate ‘rape’ of mum, two daughters T

HE police in Ebonyi State yesterday arrested the Vice-Chairman of Ikwo Local Government Area, Sunday Ottah, for alleged complicity in the rape of a woman councilloraspirant and her two daughters.

The suspect was brought into the State Police Headquarters, Abakaliki, and detained at 2.09 pm.

The rape of Mrs. Margaret Elom, a widow, who won the councillorship primaries of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in

From Ogochukwu Anioke, Abakaliki

Ndiagu Achara Ward 1 in Ikwo community, was alleged to have been perpetrated by hoodlums hired by Ottah.

The hoodlums stole N50, 000 and a motorcycle from them.

Police spokesman Sylvester Igbo confirmed the incident, saying the matter would be investigated.

He said one of the suspects confirmed that Ottah was behind the act, an allegation he

said Ottah had denied.

Igbo said: “Mrs. Margaret Elom, the councillor-aspirant for Ndiagu Echara Ward I in Ikwo Local Government Area reported that some hoodlums broke into her house and stole N50,000 and a motorcycle valued at N120,000 and nine phones.

“She said two of her daughters were raped by the two suspects, who were later identified as Chidi Eze (24) and Sunday Nwogu (23).

Eze was arraigned on August 12.

“The suspects confessed

to the crime and added that they were sent to the woman’s house to retrieve the motorcycle that was given to her for campaign and the Certificate of Return given to her by the State Independent Electoral Commission (EBSIEC).”

Though the police didn’t confirm if Mrs. Elom was raped, sources confirmed that she was raped with her daughters.

But Ottah, who spoke from behind the police counter, said he was innocent.

HE National Conscience Party (NCP) yesterday elected Webster Emeka Okonkwo as its candidate for the November 16 governorship election in Anambra State.

Okonwko was returned unopposed by the delegates from the 21 local government areas.

NCP National Chairman Yanusa Tanko, who pre-

From Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, Nnewi

sented him to party members at Awka, said the party was the only one that protects the interest of the masses.

The state Chairman, Peter Okala, said the choice of Okonkwo was informed by his numerous contributions to the sustenance of democracy.

5,000 get free treatment From Ogochukwu Anioke, Abakaliki

O

VER 5,000 people have received free medical treatment in Ezza North and South local government areas of Ebonyi State, courtesy of a non-profit organisation, Ezza Ezekuna Professionals.

The National President of the association, Emmanuel Nworie, said the programme was to complement the government’s healthcare scheme.

He said the funding came from donations from members and friends across the country.

One of the beneficiaries, Chinedu Ngwuta thanked the organisation for coming up with the programme.

Obi gives N1.2b for MDGs projects

A

•Obi (second left) with beneficiaries of the fund...yesterday

Church to lawmakers: repeal abortion law

T

HE Catholic Church in Imo State has called on the House of Assembly to abrogate the law legalising abortion.

The law, which permits victims of sexual assault, rape and incest to resort to abortion as a remedy, has pitched the lawmakers and the government against the Church.

The Archbishop of Owerri Diocese, Rev Anthony Obinna, argued that the enactment of the law, which he said was secretly signed by Governor Rochas Okorocha, will be opposed

by Catholic faithful in the state and beyond.

He argued that signing the bill into law will abuse

A

•We didn’t legalise abortion, says House

From Okodili Ndidi, Owerri

of the rights of the unborn child, who also has a right to life.

“The excuse that abortion should be resorted to when a woman is uncomfortable with her pregnancy as a result of rape, sexual assault or incest is not enough to legalise the killing of innocent unborn children.

“When the issue of the controversial law was raised during the Achike Udenwa administration, the Church took it up and marched on the House in protest and it was halted.

But the current House clandestinely debated it without input from the public and it was secretly signed into law by the governor.”

The cleric explained that the Church is demanding that the law be repealed in defence of the unborn child.

Obinna said: “Abortion is evil and the Catholic Church is leading the protest to stop it, life is sacred and should not be taken, no matter the motive.”

But the House denied legalising abortion, explaining that the law was enacted to provide maximum protection and effec-

tive remedies for victims of rape, sexual assault and incest.

The Special Assistant to the Speaker on Media, Emeka Ahaneku, said the House was misrepresented on the issue.

“The Speaker has made it clear that if the law did not conform to the aspirations of the people it will be further amended or totally repealed and the process has started.

“I think the controversy is politically sponsored to cause disaffection between the people and the House because the lawmakers’ stand is clear.”

NAMBRA State Governor Peter Obi has presented a cheque of N1.2 billion for the implementation of Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) projects in six local government areas.

Presenting the cheque during a sensitisation meeting with stakeholders of the benefiting councils at J Jumac Hotel, Awka, Obi said each of them would receive N200 million for implementation of projects of their choice.

The benefiting local governments are Ihiala, Oyi, Ekwusigo, Ogbaru, Idemili North and Anaocha.

This brings to 13 the number of local governments that have benefited from the programme, which

Vote of confidence in Orji

C

From Sunny Nwankwo, Aba

OUNCILLORS from the 17 local government areas in Abia State have passed a vote-of-confidence on Governor Theodore Orji.

The Chairman, Abia State Councillors Forum, Okey Iboko, said Orji has revamped the state’s economy which they said was comatose.

Iboko praised the governor for his quick and timely intervention in dealing with insecurity.

He called on members of the forum to be alive to their responsibilities and take the message of transformation to the people.

Praises for Okorocha From Okodili Ndidi, Owerri

Trespasser arrested at Benin Airport

25-YEAR-OLD man, Leroy Ugaga, has been arrested by security operatives at the Benin City airport for allegedly attempting to stowaway in an aircraft.

Sources said the suspect was arrested at the tarmac.

Yesterday’s arrest is coming less than two weeks after Daniel Ohikhena boarded a Lagos-bound Arik flight in the landing gear compartment.

It was not, however, confirmed if the suspected trespasser was one of those walking through one of the pathways at the airport.

According to the General

From Osagie Otabor, Benin and Kelvin Osa Okunbor

Manager, Corporate Communications, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Yakubu Dati, the trespasser was sighted and observed for a few minutes by members of the patrol team.

Dati said as the trespasser tried to enter the airside, he was apprehended and handed over to the police for further interrogation.

He explained that after the incident of the stowaway on August 24 at the Benin Airport, the authority has intro-

‘FAAN hereby appeals to the public, especially youths, to avoid the risk of attempting to gain unauthorised entry into restricted areas of airports’ duced additional security measures to curb the chal-

lenge of runway incursion.

He said: “A joint perimeter patrol by FAAN’s security staff and Air force officials at the Benin Airport is one of the additional security measures taken by FAAN to forestall runway incursions at all airports.

“FAAN hereby appeals to the public, especially youths, to avoid the risk of attempting to gain unauthorised entry into restricted areas of airports, as doing so is extremely dangerous.

“Trespassers are likely to be severely dealt with if the security patrols have cause to suspect violent intentions.”

is a collaboration between the government and MDGs Office, Abuja.

The governor enjoined the people to take full ownership of the projects and facilities in their area to protect them from abuse.

The governor assured that the remaining eight local governments yet to be covered in the MDGs programmes would benefit before the end of his tenure.

The Chairman, State MDGs Implementation Committee and Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, Prof.

Chinyere Okunna, said the implementation of the programme was according to the state poverty mapping in the efforts to eradicate hunger and extreme poverty.

•Okorocha

T

HE Chief of Staff to Imo State Governor and Commissioner for Special Duties-designate, Jude Ejiogu, has defended Governor Rochas Okorocha’s style of administration.

He described as ridiculous insinuations that the administration lacks human face.

Ejiogu said the critics of the administration were

those who wanted the governor to open the state’s treasury for sharing.

The Chief of Staff defended the governor‘s recent travels abroad, insisting that he has not travelled as much as his predecessors.

“I want to say it here without fear or favour that this governor has not travelled half as much as his predecessors. I am talking as a Chief of Staff.

“The governor does not like to travel, unless he is compelled to do so or it is absolutely necessary for him to do so. He is not the type of governor who would like to spend one weekend in South Africa or the other in America, and when he travels his government runs unhindered.”

58

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2013

59

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2013

FOREIGN NEWS

NEWS Political summit won’t discuss Egypt to try ex-President Morsi, 14 others Jonathan's ambition, says Nwabueze

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GYPT’S state prosecutor says he has referred ousted President Mohammed Morsi for trial on charges of inciting the murder of protesters.

The accusations relate to violence outside the presidential palace in Cairo last December when at least seven people were killed in clashes.

Fourteen other members of the Muslim Brotherhood are to stand trial on the same charges.

Mr Morsi has been held at a secret location since he was deposed in July.

He faces a number of charges but this case is his first referral for trial.

The state prosecutor referred the former president for trial late on Sunday, Egypt’s state media reported.

They said he would go on trial on charges of “incitement to murder and violence” in December 2012.

The date for the trial is yet to be announced.

The case relates to clashes outside the presidential palace in early December 2012.

Mr Morsi’s aides are then alleged to have called their

supporters to deal with the demonstrators.

Among the other 14 suspects due to go on trial with the ousted president are leading figures in the Brotherhood’s political wing, Mohammed al-Beltagi and Essam El-Erian.

Mr Morsi has previously been accused of the “premeditated murder of some prisoners, officers and soldiers” when he and several Muslim Brotherhood leaders were freed during a breakout at a Cairo prison in January 2011.

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HE political summit holding in Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom State, will not discuss the alleged second term ambition of President Goodluck Jonathan, its Convener, Prof.

Ben Nwabueze (SAN), said yesterday.

The former don lamented that some elements were planning to discredit the summit, which he said was convened to discuss the challenges facing the country.

In a statement, Nwabueze said the goal of the summit is to explore opportunities for the convocation of a Sovereign National

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•Smoke rises from NATO supply trucks in the Torkham area near the Pakistan—Afghanistan border east of Kabul, Afghanistan…Yesterday.

PHOTO:AP

Pakistani ex-leader Musharraf faces new charges

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EW murder charges have been registered against Pakistan’s former military ruler Pervez Musharraf, officials say.

Mr Musharraf, who is currently under house arrest, already faces murder charges over the deaths of Benazir Bhutto and a Baloch tribal leader.

He also faces charges over his attempt to sack Pakistan’s higher judiciary in 2007 and the government has said it will try him for treason.

Mr Musharraf says that all the cases against him are politically motivated.

The latest charge relates to the death of radical cleric Abdul Rashid Ghazi, during the siege of Islamabad’s Red Mosque in 2007.

More than 100 people were

killed when Pakistani troops stormed the mosque after a stand-off between troops and hardline Islamists barricaded inside failed.

Analysts say that the storming of the mosque angered hardliners and provoked Taliban militants to launch a bloody campaign of suicide bombings and other attacks on government and security forces.

Last month Mr Musharraf was formally charged in connection with the 2007 assassination of opposition leader and former PM Benazir Bhutto.

It was the first time a current or ex-army chief has been charged with a crime in Pakistan. He denied all the charges set out against him.

He faces charges over the

killing of Baloch tribal leader Nawab Akbar Bugti, in a military operation in 2006 There is a case against him relating to his attempt to sack the entire higher judiciary in November 2007 The government has said it intends to try him for treason for suspending the constitution and imposing emergency rule in 2007.

The former military ruler returned to Pakistan from selfimposed exile earlier this year and is currently under house arrest.

He came to power in 1999 when he ousted Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif in a bloodless coup. He ruled the country for nine years before being voted out and then he left Pakistan to live in self-imposed exile in Dubai and London.

Bush apologises for Mandela death statement

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ORMER U.S. President George H.W. Bush has apologised to the South African government and the family of former President Nelson Mandela after erroneously issuing a statement of condolence stating that Mandela has died.

The spokesperson for Bush, Jim McGrath, said he circulated a prepared statement expressing Bush’s sorrow at the death after misreading a Washington Post news alert about Mandela’s discharge from hospital.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that ExU.S. President’s office mistakenly announced the death of Mandela on Sunday morn-

ing.

The elder statesman was discharged from a Pretoria hospital after almost three months and returned to his home in Houghton, Johannesburg, which had been reconfigured to ensure he received the correct intensive care.

“The statement sent this morning was the result of my misreading the header on the WaPo news flash.

Stupid mistake by me.

Apologies to all.” McGrath said.

The South Africa presidency said that Mandela’s condition remained critical and sometime unstable.

Meanwhile, the country’s

ruling party, the African National Congress (ANC) and the main opposition party the Democratic Alliance (DA) have welcomed the news of Mandela’s discharge from hospital.

The ANC spokesperson, Jackson Mthembu, said receiving treatment at home would afford Mandela continuous support from his family.

The DA spokesperson, Mmusi Maimane, thanked Mandela’s medical team for everything they have done so far and will continue to do.

Mandela was admitted to the Medclinic Heart Hospital in Pretoria on June 8 for recurring lung infection.

Conference.

He said: "Notwithstanding the schemes to destabilise the national political dialogue, we have continued to receive calls and encouragement from well-meaning Nigerians who have applauded the initiative of the summit.

“Such people have expressed excitement and optimism about the timing and impact of the nonpartisan summit on the current challenges of Nigeria in the areas of political stability and national security."

Nwabueze said

irrespective of the campaign of calumny by “egoistic and discredited politicians, 90 per cent of the eminent Nigerians invited to play key roles at the historic national summit have reaffirmed their support and readiness to participate at the summit.

He said more than three hundred delegates have already arrived the Le' Meridian venue of the summit in Uyo. The statesman stressed that the Uyo summit would build a national consensus on the modality and roadmap for national stability and security.

Women threaten to protest ASUU strike

OTHERS in Nigeria, a non-government organisation (NGO), has threatened to protest on the streets of Lagos the ongoing strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), if the union failed to end the strike by the middle of this month.

The mothers said they would hold meetings with the university teachers and the Federal Government on the strike, if the union failed top end the strike within the two weeks.

They promised to meet at the Rita Lori Hotels, Surulere, Lagos, to begin the protest, if both sides failed to reach a compromise within the period.

The National Chairman, Mothers in Nigeria, Chief RitaLori Ogbebor, addressed reporters in her office in Surulere.

She said: "We, the mothers in Nigeria, are meeting at the Rita Lori Hotels, Surulere, in two weeks to deliberate on the strike, to take the bull by the horn. We shall sit with ASUU and the Federal Government before then to find a away out.

“Our interest is to see how we all can come together to find a practical way forward. We don't even want to hear that the government does not have money. Before we protest, we will find out which side doesn't want to cooperate."

The popular hotelier said what the mothers want is to enure that the Nigerian child gets an uninterrupted qualitative education.

Mrs Ogbebor said Nigerian mothers do not

By Medinat Kanabe

intend to joke with the lives of their children.

She said the mothers are not politicians, adding that the protest is a project of the nation’s mothers.

"This is a task that has to be done because if the children are not trained, they will become touts and eventually beat us.

We want to pursue everything we think is right for the

children, the country and education. Enough is enough.

We must now face the facts. If others don't see the problems, mothers see them. The children are forming gangs and defrauding people through the internet to keep themselves busy."

Mrs Ogbebor added that the mothers wanted ASUU to go back to a better academic environment.

Imoke's tenure ends 2015, says INEC

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HE Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) said yesterday that the tenure of Cross River State Governor Liyel Imoke will end in 2015.

In a statement yesterday by the Cross River State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mr Mike Igini, the INEC said at a meeting in Abuja on August 15, it resolved to implement the Supreme Court judgment on the tenure of the governor.

"The Independent National Electoral Commission, at its meeting in Abuja on August 15, 2013, deliberated on the above subject matter and approved that governorship election in Cross River State would be conducted during the 2015 general elections in line with the judgment of the Supreme Court on the tenure of office of the governor of the state," the statement said.

Following a series of court cases, which arose out of the 2007 general elections across the country, five governors Ibrahim Idris (Kogi), Murtala Nyako (Adamawa), Timipre Sylva (Bayelsa), Aliyu Wamako (Sokoto) and Liyel Imoke (Cross River) - went to

Augustine Avwode, Assistant Editor

court to ask for tenure extension. It was granted by an Abuja Federal High Court and upheld by the Court of Appeal, Abuja.

The five, therefore, did not participate in the April 2011 general elections.

But on January 27, last year, the five governors were swept out of office by the Supreme Court, terminating their tenure.

It declared that there was no reason for them whatsoever to stay beyond May 29, having first taken their oaths of office and allegiance on May 29, 2007.

A seven-member panel of the apex court, presided over by the then Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Dahiru Musdapher, handed down the verdict in an appeal filed by the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) governorship candidate in Adamawa State, Gen. Buba Marwa and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

PDP undecided on Taraba, Anambra crises

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HE national leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) appears not to have decided on how to address the festering political crises in Taraba and Anambra states.

The PDP-controlled Taraba is boiling over following the divisions between ailing Governor Danbaba Suntai and Acting Governor Garba Umar.

Suntai was brought into the country on August 25, looking frail, after a 10-month medical sojourn abroad. He had to be assisted off the chartered aircraft that brought him to Abuja.

While the governor's loyalists are insisting that he has resumed duty, the House of Assembly mandated Umar to continue as acting governor, after the lawmakers had declared Suntai unfit to resume.

The constitution, it was learnt,

From Gbade Ogunwale, Assistant Editor, Abuja

did not envisage the existence of governor and acting governor administering a state at the same time.

However, the newly inaugurated PDP's National Working Committee (NWC), at its meeting yesterday, did not discuss the Taraba crisis.

This is in spite of strident calls by stakeholders in the state for the national leadership of the party to make its position known on the crisis.

Addressing reporters after a meeting, the party's National Publicity Secretary Chief Olisa Metuh said the Taraba palaver did not come up at the meeting.

The meeting was chaired by the PDP National Chairman, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur.

"We did not discuss the issue of Taraba at the meeting because

the matter was not listed on the agenda. I will raise the matter in our next meeting and feed you back on whatever position the party takes," Metuh said.

The spokesman also said the meeting did not discuss the problem in Anambra State, where two parallel candidates have emerged PDP flag bearers for the November 16 governorship election.

While the national body of the PDP had given recognition to the Ken Emeakayi led faction which presented Mr. Tony Nwoye as the party's flag bearer, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) recognised the Ejike Oguebego led faction that produced Senator Andy Uba as the candidate.

Metuh also promised to raise the Anambra issue at the next meeting of the NWC.

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THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3 , 2013

NEWS

Ngige wins Anambra APC ticket in direct primaries

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Governors to Jonathan: forget running in 2015 Continued from page 4

•Shekarau, El-Rufai, Izunaso taunt opposition

ENATOR Chris Ngige yesterday won the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship ticket.

He defeated his opponent, Godwin Ezeemo, in all the 21 council areas.

According to the result declared by the governorship election primaries returning officer, Mallam Ibrahim Shekarau, a former governor of Kano State, Ngige won 63,255 votes to Ezeemo’s 9,564 votes.

A breakdown of the result is as follows: Awka North – Ngige 3,405, Ezeemo 248; Dunukofia – Ngige 2,426, Ezeemo 76; Ekwusigo – Ngige 1,085, Ezeemo 297; Ogbaru – Ngige 3,086, Ezeemo 772; Ihiala – Ngige 6,938, Ezeemo 1,089; Orumba North – Ngige 2,451, Ezeemo 413; Orumba South – Ngige 3,865, Ezeemo 423; Oyi – Ngige 2,108, Ezeemo 252; Onitsha South – Ngige 1,478, Ezeemo 127; Onitsha north – Ngige 4,878, Ezeemo 162.

The APC said the primaries

From Nwanosike Onu, Awka

were held to bring democracy down to the grassroots.

Shekarau and other committee members, former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mallam Nasir El-Rufai and Senator Osita Izunaso, spoke at the Finotel Hotel, Awka.

The committee told reporters that the primaries were held in the 326 wards using the direct voting process.

The accreditation of members began at 9:30am while voting commenced at noon and ended at about 3:30pm At Alor, Senator Ngige’s ward, the process was orderly Voters queued behind the pictures of the contestants.

Ngige scored 674 votes in his ward to Ezeemo’s one vote.

Also, at the Umuchu ward one in Aguata council area — Ezeemo’s ward— Ngige scored 89 votes, while Ezeemo scored 354 votes.

But the philanthropist disputed the election process.

Some of the members of the

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party were not allowed to vote in Umuchu Ward One as some of them were discovered to have cards bearing different local government areas.

Ngige described the poll as wonderful, adding that the turn-out of People showed the true picture of what would happen during the November 16 governorship election.

He said: “This is no fight.

Ezeemo is my brother, we cannot fight, November 16 is the only D-day. We are brothers, there is no need for us to quarrel over the contest, and November 16 will be a landmark day in Anambra State” Shekarau said the process was chosen by the APC to test the popularity of the two aspirants.

•Ngige...yesterday

“We are not like other political parties where they fight to select their candidates. What the APC is doing is showing the way for others to follow; ours is not a do or die affair.

APC does everything in an open and democratic process”.

22 senators back Baraje

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WENTY-TWO Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) senators yesterday backed the Abdullahi Barajeled faction of the party.

The senators, in a statement last night, congratulated former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar Governors Rabiu Kwankwaso (Kano State), Aliyu Wammako (Sokoto), Murtala Nyako (Adamawa), Sule Lamido (Jigawa), Muazu Babangida Aliyu (Niger), Abdul Fattah Ahmed (Kwara), and Rotimi Amaechi (Rivers), “for the bold, swift and courageous step to reposition the Peoples Democratic Party under a new leadership”.

They congratulated Baraje, the Deputy Chairman, Dr Sam Sam Jaja, National Secretary, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinola and other members of the National Executive Committee for their emergence as leaders of our great party.They said:

CONFIRMATION OF NAME This is to inform the general public that I Adegboyega Adedeji Adeeko, is the same and one person as ADEDOYIN ADEEKO. General public please take note.

MISSING ITEMS This is to inform the public that the following items belonging to Maureen Onyejekwe are missing: First Bank Plc ATM card; UBA Plc ATM card; Nigeria Driver's License; Hygeia Health card; SHELL Nigeria Dependents identity card; National Identity card; passport photographs & Bank of America debit card belonging to Chike Onyejekwe.

If found please contact their solicitor on 08025830699 or email iwunna.co@gmail.com

“By this decision that no doubt provides a soothing balm that will calm frail nerves in the party, you have written your names in gold and will be remembered in our political histoy as men that stood to save the party and Nigeria’ s democracy.”

The senators are: Senators Bello Hayatu Gwarzo, Mohammed Ali Ndume, Ahmed Zainah, Abdulahi Adamu, Abdulahi Danladi Sankara, Abdulmumini Mohammed Hassan,Umaru Dahiru, Ahmed Mohammed Maccido, Muhammad Shaaba Lafiaji, Simeon Sule Ajibola, Abubakar Bukola Saraki, Magnus Ngei Abe,Wilson Asinobi Ake, Danjuma Mohammed Goje, Saidu Ahmed Alkali and Ahmed Hassan Barata.

Others are: Senators Bindowo Umar Mohammed Jibrilla, Aisha Jummai Alhassan, Ibrahim Abdulahi Gobir, Bashir Garba Mohammad. Abdulaziz Usman and Isa Galandu.

The party has 74 senators.

Police declare Amaechi’s ADC a deserter Continued from page 4

as a deserter.”

It will be recalled that the Leader of the Rivers Assembly, Chidi Lloyd, was on July 17 declared wanted by Mbu for attempted murder, conspiracy and wilful damage, over the July 9 fracas.

The IGP invited Lloyd, the ADC to Amaechi and the Chief Security Officer (CSO), Tony Iwelu. The ADC and CSO are yet to honour the invitation.

placed under investigation by the commission.”

Suswam spoke in a similar manner, saying EFCC was not the problem because “I am also being investigated”.

Akpabio was quoted as saying: “I do not see anything bad in EFCC investigation.

My sister, who was on a medical trip, was sent back from Germany because she is a relation of a political office holder.

“I think we should all give peace a chance because nobody will be in office for life.”

A worried factional Chairman of the Board of Trustees of PDP, Chief Tony Anenih, pleaded with the aggrieved governors to give peace a chance, it was learnt.

Jonathan, according to the sources, described the party’s challenges as “resolvable”.

Another source quoted Jonathan as follows: “All the problems analysed are within human capacity, we will address them.

“Those within my powers, I will address them personally and those for the party, I will get the party to address them “But we should all remember that PDP is a party in all localities in Nigeria and because of that we will not allow anything that will undermine the PDP.” There were attempts to build a consensus on some of the problems, but two were “nasty” – in the view of a source. These are removal of Tukur and dumping of sec-

ond term ambition by Jonathan.

Oyinlola said despite intervention, the struggle would go on.

Oyinlola’s statement reads in part: “Alhaji Baraje and other leaders of the party appreciate the overwhelming outpouring of support and encouragement from genuine members and leaders of the party across the country.

“We assure them that we will not disappoint them in the mission to make the PDP work again in the interest of Nigeria and its people.

“We also appreciate the efforts of leaders of the party, particularly President Goodluck Jonathan and former President Olusegun Obasanjo who, we note, have scheduled a meeting of the party elders for this week.

“We respect the elders and will be guided by them even as we stress that we will not abandon the ideals of justice and fairness that gave birth to the new party leadership under Alhaji Baraje.

“We equally call on all party members across the country to remain peaceful and law abiding as the PDP rescue process is being pursued with vigour.

“We owe the coming generation of Nigerians a duty of ensuring that impunity and dictatorship do not take any root in our democracy and, indeed, in our nation.”

The new party commiserated with families, associates and friends of the Adamawa State delegates who died in Saturday’s road crash.

Taraba deputy governor is power thirsty, Says Senator Continued from page 4

refused that he is no longer the deputy governor; the way out is simple - the deputy governor was a deputy governor when he was brought in.

“Your principal has returned, you revert to your position of a deputy governor. But the deputy governor is refusing to revert back to his position as deputy governor.

“He wants to assert himself. What sort of heartlessness is this? He can’t be patient, for God’s sake? Has he forgotten so soon how he joined the governor?

“Barely two weeks after the governor brought him, the governor had accident.

Has he thrown morality to the dust bin that he flies all over the place visiting traditional rulers in the North, telling them lies?

“Does he know that there is one God that rules over the affairs of men? Let me tell you, the deputy governor remains the deputy governor, Suntai remains the governor.

“Why is the deputy governor refusing to accept the position he was before.

Must he be substantive governor before he begins to act?

Amaechi: where I stand on PDP crisis

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IVERS State Governor Chibuike Amaechi said yesterday that he belongs to the faction of the ruling Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) led by Abubakar Kawu Baraje.

Amaechi spoke to reporters in Port Harcourt shortly after arriving from Abuja.

Speaking on the pulling out of some PDP governors and Stakeholders at the weekend’s PDP mini convention in Abuja and the subsequent press briefing by the Atiku Abubakar-led PDP faction, Amaechi said: “I am not the national chairman, the national chairman is Abubakar Kawu Baraje and he is the only person who is qualified to speak for now or the publicity secretary. All I know is that I belong to the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) led by Abubakar Kawu Baraje and

we are forging ahead because we need to make some changes”.

On PDP’s electoral fortunes in 2015, he said: “Well, when we get to 2015 God will determine that. We can’t be discussing 2015 now. We will discuss 2015 when we get to 2015".

On the decision of Rivers statutory delegates to boycott Saturday’s mini PDP Convention, Amaechi said: “You know, the chairman of the party and the members of the National Assembly and House of Assembly took that decision, I wasn’t around, so I wouldn’t know what to say about that, but the most important thing is that we are on course”.

Amaechi also said he would not know the outcome of the meeting President Goodluck Jonathan had with some governors in Abuja since he was not at the meeting.

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2013

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SPORT EXTRA

Eagles’ camp scanty ahead Malawi clash

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HE Super Eagles’ Metropolitan Hotel, Calabar camp was almost empty as at 8pm last night, as only James Okwosa of Chippa United, South Africa had arrived Calabar yesterday morning.

Other four players that later joined Okwosa are home based and they are: Heartland left back, Benjamin Francis. Chigozie Agbim of Rangers, Sunshine Star right back Solomon Kwambe and Azubuike

•Okwosa is Europe’s early bird •Others expected Tuesday morning •Mba arrived Abuja Monday night From Segun Ogunjimi, Abuja Egwuekwe of Warri Wolves.

Chief Coach Stephen Keshi who also arrived Calabar in the company of his assistants Daniel Amokachi, Valere Onduonu and

goalkeeper trainer Ike Shorunmu is, however, expecting a full home today.

Keshi has also fixed full training sessions for tonight when he is so sure that all the invited players would have joined camp.

Sunday Mba who couldn't

tie down a contract with CA Bastia as a result of disagreement between Warri Wolves’ boss Pinnick Amaju and the French as a result of transfer fee issue arrived Abuja yesterday and will join the Calabar Camp this morning.

LMC slaps Kwara United with N5m fine •Team banished to Abuja

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HE League m a n a g e m e n t Company LMC has come out with heavy sanctions on Kwara United football club with a banishment to Abuja and to replay their abandoned week 29 match against Warri Wolves in Abuja on Thursday.

This punishment came up as a result of fans unruly behaviour and an assault on

line-man who was beaten at the stadium after the first half which ended goaless.

In addition to the punishment, Kwara United are to pay a whopping sum of N5m to the LMC before the replay on Thursday or lose 3 goals, and 3 points to the Seasiders. And also, Kwara State stadium in Ilorin has been closed to all fans till the end of the season.

Joel Obi completes Parma switch

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IDFIELDER Joel Obi has completed a one year loan move to Parma from Inter Milan.

The Nigeria international had been heavily linked with the switch and completed it officially on Monday afternoon.

The 22-year-old central

midfielder had been coowned by Parma until January 2012, when they sold their half to Inter for •3.5m.

Obi has now returned to the Stadio Tardini on a seasonlong loan.

There is no option to buy on a permanent basis. He is already a senior Nigeria international with 12 caps.

Panathinaikos to unveil Ajagun on Tuesday

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Osaze ready for fresh start at Cardiff City

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ETER Odemwingie says he is ready for a fresh start in the Premier League, after the striker joined Cardiff City from West Bromwich Albion in a £2.25m deal.

The Nigeria international, 32, has signed a three-year deal at the Cardiff City Stadium, after completing a medical on deadline day.

"It's a fresh start, a whole new beginning," Odemwingie told BBC Sport.

"I've joined a club with a strong determination to achieve their goals."

It brings to an end Odemwingie's three-year association with the

Baggies, having joined in 2010 from Russian side Lokomotiv Moscow.

He rejected late interest from both West Ham and Stoke City to join Cardiff.

"I'd like to thank the West Brom fans and staff for everything. I'll definitely take with me the positives and great memories," Odemwingie added.

"Cardiff City showed great intent to bring me here. I have to thank the manager and everyone involved in making this transfer happen.

"There are talented and dedicated players in the team, everyone is moving in the right direction and I also

want to make a strong contribution as well."

Odemwingie started his career in Nigeria with Bendel Insurance before switching to Belgian side La Louviere.

Further stints at French club Lille and Lokomotiv Moscow followed before joining the Baggies for £2.5m in 2010.

He made 100 appearances, scoring 31 goals for the Midlands club.

Odemwingie failed in a bid to force a move to QPR last January and he has played a bit-part at West Brom since.

The striker has not played for Baggies boss Steve Clarke

so far this season and was out of contract at The Hawthorns at the end of the season.

"I have a bright start ahead of me. There's no point looking back or worry over something you can't change.

It's all in my past," he said.

"It's important to focus my energy on positive things. I can only wish everyone all the very best in life. "It's been a year of learning, finding incredible joy with my young family and significantly a fresh beginning at Cardiff City.

"There are expectations and I honestly can't wait to get started."

Oshonaike: I want to coach in Nigeria

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IGERIA’S foremost table tennis star, Funke Oshonaike yesterday expressed the desire to help groom young stars that will represent the country in table tennis game in the future.

Speaking on a live interviewprogramme on Sports Splash, Lagos Television, after taking part in the just concluded Lagos International Table Tennis Classics, the mother of two, said her plans for the future is to impart on the younger generation, adding that Nigeria will be her first port of call.

“I actually want to become a trainer after my playing career.

There’s difference between a trainer and a coach but here in Nigeria a coach is a trainer.

That is what I do in Germany; I am a trainer and a player at the

•Oshodi tips German based star, others to groom young players

By Innocent Amomoh same time. I groom young players and they are all fond of me. I spoke to the minister recently and I discovered he has good plans for table tennis.

“The standard of Table tennis has fallen in Nigeria no doubt, but with the present board of the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation (NTTF), the game will return to its glory days. I remember those days when we used to play a lot of competitions and camped for as much as six months,” she said.

The five -time Olympian said though she is not thinking of quitting the game at the moment, she will definitely stop when the time comes.

“Sincerely I don’t know when I will stop playing because I still play good table tennis. My husband supports me, my children are happy with me and I hope to keep doing well,” she said.

Meanwhile, in a related development the President of the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation (NTTF), Waheed Enitan Oshodi had earlier promised that experienced players like Segun Toriola, Monday Merontoun and Funke Oshonaike, will be absorbed as coaches when they eventually retire.

He said five- time Olympian Bose Kafo is already being considered for a role in the development of the game in the country.

“We had a crop of fantastic

players from Toriola to Moreontoun, to Bose Kafo, Funke Oshonaike, great players that are coming close to the end of their careers, so with the knowledge you saw out there today that these players posses will be needed to groom the younger ones.

“They are going to be working with our National coach, Coach Bello, who has done a lot of hard work but he can’t do it alone we need these players to assist with the development of younger players especially in terms of the new tricks in table tennis.

The game is fast evolving people like Toriola and Oshonaike have seen in Europe and its time they come back home and work with us,” he said.

LYING Eagles star Abdul will be unveiled as an Panathinaikos player on Tuesday afternoon.

It would be recalled that the 20 - year - old attacking midfielder signed a four year contract with The Greens last month.

After the former Dolphins ace displayed his wares at the FIFA Under 20 World Cup held in Turkey, it was only a matter a time before a foreign club offered him a contract.

Abdul Ajagun, who has been handed the number 14

jersey this season, failed to make his official debut in last weekend's league match against Veria.

•Ajagun

LAGOS INTER-CLUBS COMPETITIONS

Cleaner wins silver medal in Darts tourney

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CLEANER with the Lagos State Sports Council, Risikat Yekini, tried her luck and mother luck smiled on her as she won a silver medal in the ladies singles mixed game at the Lagos State InterClubs Darts Competition held at the Mobolaji Bank Anthony Sports Hall, Rowe Park, Yaba.

Yekini, who on her road to the final, defeated three other players, was stopped in the final by hard-fighting Esther Lasoju of Rowe Park Darts Club in the final which ended 2-0.

The 39-year-old cleaner, who started playing darts three years ago, said after she was decorated with her silver medal that “I’m so happy achieving this feat because nobody gave a cleaner like me any chance.

My target now is to work harder to get a chance to represent Lagos in next year’s National Sports Festival,” she said.

In the men’s singles, Emeka Egbuleze, defeated Famakin Pius. In the men’s singles mixed games, Egbuleze also defeated Bisiriyu to win another gold medal.

In Basketball Grassroots Championship, Zion Basketball Academy won the competition after they beat

Rookies Basketball Academy 41-25 points in the men category, while the female category was won by Hope 4 Girls Basketball Academy who defeated Police Rookies Basketball Academy 17-15 points.

Head Coach of Rookies Basketball Academy, Joseph Patrick, was disappointed that two of his players failed to leave up to expectation which resulted into that loss in the final.

Meanwhile, wrestling inter-clubs competition ended with Team Lagos’s gold medalist, Esther Ayodele winning a gold medal in free style 61kg female category after defeating Bilikisu Dauda Mausi Eric of Jesus Wrestling Club defeated Enitan Folohunso in 46kg.

Fausa Ajashe of Warrior Wrestling Club thrashed Anu Alawode of T Gold Wrestling Club in the 38kg, Toyin Amode humbled Ibiyeye Oluwabukola in the 60kg.

In male category, Ajibola Adeniran defeated Peter Obasi from T Gold Wrestling Clubs in the 46kg,Taiwo Isaac also defeated Kehinde Isaac in the 42kg, while Julius Adekunle also came out victorious against Tanwell Emmanuel in the 54kg.

TODAY IN THE NATION

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2013 TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM

VOL. 8

NO.2,595

‘Much as the House would seek public understanding for what it considers a well-intentioned move, their doubts about the fitness of the governor to continue in office would certainly not be resolved by any steps taken outside of the law’ SANYA ONI

COMMENT & DEB ATE EBA

I

N the folklore of American politics, the second term is when Presidents falter, when anything that can go wrong under their watch goes wrong.

Nothing seems to work according to plan.

At a time their eyes are fixed on their legacy and their minds concentrated on how they can can best shape and consolidate it, they find themselves buffeted by events over which they have little control — events and developments that may not only undermine how they would like to be remembered, but damage it fatally.

Reckoning from the time of Richard Nixon, there is more than anecdotal support for this piece of native wisdom.

In the 1968 Presidential election, Nixon defeated his Democratic opponent, Hubert Humphrey handily. His escalation of the Vietnam War and his domestic policies stirred much domestic unrest. But going to China, thus ending the American delusion that propped up Taiwan for decades in the UN Security Council as a state actor and the authentic representative of the Chinese people, he won respect across the world as an authentic statesman.

He had in his corner, remember, the brilliant but frighteningly amoral Dr Henry “Super K” Kissinger, first as his National Security Adviser and later as his Secretary of State.

Four years later, Nixon won reëlection even more handily. In the race, he urged voters to compare his “law and order” credentials to the appeal of his opponent George McGovern, to the dishevelled anti-war elements stirring up things on the campuses and in the streets.

Driven more by cynicism and expediency than high-mindedness, he ended the Vietnam War, brought home the troops, and it seemed he was headed to be counted among America’s great presidents.

By the half-way mark in his second term, he was hobbled by what was at first dismissed as a third-rate burglary carried out by some inept political operatives: a break- in at the offices of the opposition Democratic Party at the Watergate Hotel, in Washington, DC. Nixon’s fingerprints were all over the breakin, in the attempt to cover it up, and in so many other acts, summed up by the term Watergate” that brought his office into disrepute.

He resigned in disgrace, to avert impeachment Ronald Reagan rode to the White House in 1980 on the back of conservative resurgence, the frustration and impotence that swept the country when 52 Americans were held hostage for 444 days in Iran during the revolution that toppled the monarchy and brought Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini to power during President Jimmy Carter’s luckless term.

An attempt to rescue the hostages failed even before it really got underway, deepening America’s sense of impotence.

The conservative resurgence that had bu-

OLATUNJI DARE

AT HOME ABROAD olatunji.dare@thenationonlineng.net

Obama: Second-term blues for a President

•Obama

oyed Reagan to The White House grew from strength and saw him to a second term, which he won by a landslide victory over Walter Mondale, his Democratic opponent, and promised to carry him through his second term.

But the Iran-Contra scandal supervened and cast a pall over the second term and indeed his presidency. By the time Reagan left office, dementia had set in, reducing his presidency to a holding action Bill Clinton’s first term was successful by any measure; the economy that had contracted in the Reagan years expanded, and his leadership in the Balkan crisis resonated across the world.

His second term was consumed by the Monica Lewinsky scandal. So toxic did the scandal render Clinton that, in his 2000 presidential campaign, his vice president and Democratic candidate, Al Gore, would not even stake a claim on a share of the glittering achievements of the Clinton Administration, especially on the economic front.

George W. Bush owed his victory in the 2000 presidential election more to the Supreme Court of the United States than to the electorate. The 9/11 terrorist attack transformed his shaky and tentative start into an assertive control that propelled him to in-

RIPPLES JONATHAN, 16 GOVERNORS HOLD TALKS TO RESCUE PDP–NEWS

...a HOUSE DIVIDED against itself CANNOT STAND

vade and devastate Iraq in a quest to rid the world of that nation’s arsenal of “weapons of mass destruction.”

The weapons, it turned out, did not exist; they were a manufactured pretext for war.

But victory in the war soon turned sour, and Bush’s dream of going down in history as an all-conquering war-time leader evaporated.

Nor was that all; he squandered the hefty budget surplus of the Clinton years on tax cuts for the wealthy and plunged the economy into a recession from which it is yet to recover. The glory of the first term turned to ashes in the second.

And now, Barack Obama.

No sooner had he started his second term, after giving his Republican opponent Mitt Romney a severe thumping, than the term ran into contrary winds. The Republican faithful, sworn to ensure that Obama failed, thought they had found a promising opening when they put it out that the Internal Revenue Service had, for political reasons, scrutinised the tax returns of organisations with a conservative leaning more closely than those of organisations with a liberal leaning.

So heavy was the drumbeat that the head of the IRS had to resign. That did not placate them. They branded the allegation a scandal of Watergate proportions that called for nothing less than the President’s impeachment.

It would later turn out that the IRS had in this matter been an equal-opportunity inquisitor, scrutinising the tax returns of liberal-leaning organisations no less rigorously than the returns of conservative-leaning groups.

The furore had not quite subsided when it came to light that the national Security Agency had been spying without warrant and without probable cause on millions of Americans and indeed foreigners, tapping into their emails and text messages and other electronic transactions, and invading their privacy in

HARDBALL

S

OMETIMES our politicians do not only lack decency, they also lack finesse.

Hear what one of them, a prince, said in a recent interview in The Punch: “I’m ready to contribute resources for mobilisation but this is what many politicians don’t like doing. For example, I am ready to spend even N1billion to ensure the success of the PDP governorship candidate in Ekiti State during the forthcoming election. It would be a shame on my part if I failed to do that,” proclaimed Buruji Kashamu who parades himself as a PDP chieftain from Ogun State.

As if the shamelessness was not enough, he ranted further, “I am ready to do the same thing in Osun and Oyo states.” This is a man who is clearly more interested in drawing attention to himself. He is from Ogun State, where he claims to be a party wheel horse. Why did he not even refer to the state? Is it because they won’t give him an opportunity to spend his money?

For a man to say he gloats over the success he had in fighting former governor, Gbenga Daniel, to a standstill, one would have thought he would concentrate in his

ways that George Orwell’s Big Brother could never have devised.

And now, an off-the cuff remark that the use of chemical weapons in the festering civil war in Syria would “cross the line” and warrant an appropriate response is haunting Obama in ways he could never have imagined, this polished political actor who usually picks his words with the utmost deliberation.

It appears that chemical weapons have indeed been used, but it is not clear beyond a reasonable doubt who used them, and on whose orders. Nevertheless, the powerful lobby for military intervention is holding Obama to his word. The coalition he was counting on to deliver an appropriate response has dissolved in the face of opposition from a war-weary public that remembers all too clearly the propaganda about Iraq’s alleged weapons of mass destruction, the casus belli that turned out to be a phantom.

When they hear British Prime Minister David Cameron declare that everything they know points to Bashar al-Assad as the perpetrator of the horrid attack that put hundreds of Syrians to agonising deaths, and that it was all a matter of “judgment,” a great many in the attentive audience rejoin: We’ve heard that before, in the run-up to the invasion of Iraq. And the case turned out to be bogus through and through.

When U.S. Secretary of State asserts that the charges he had laid out against al-Assad were based on “facts” and were a matter of commonsense,” he reminds his audience of similar assertions before the United Nations Security Council by Colin Powell, his predecessor twice removed, in the build-up to the invasion of Iraq. And their response?

“We heard that before. Tell us another.”

Obama now finds himself obliged, in the face of public skepticism, if not outright opposition, to seek the approval of the U.S. Congress before launching the bombing raids on Syria he had vowed with such unaccustomed casuistry to execute, effectively shifting responsibility to that body.

No outcome is guaranteed. Nor is it clear whether the approval he is seeking is definitive or merely advisory.

What is clear is that the curse –more likely the fatigue — of the Second Term is now upon the Obama Administration. Barely one year into the term, Obama’s sure-footedness is no longer evident, his agenda seems to have come unstuck, his momentum is out of kilter, and the immediate future promises more of the same.

But it is too early to count him out. He is a student of history. He knows the burden he carries as the first African American president. In spite of the disloyal opposition, he will find ways to regain his momentum.

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•Hardball is not the opinion of the columnist featured above

The recklessness of Buruji Kashamu state. He probably has surrendered because he lives in Ogun State and has seen that he has no prayers against the good work of Governor Ibikunle Amosun.

Maybe he has not travelled enough in Ekiti State to see what Governor Kayode Fayemi has transformed the state into. Maybe he will think twice about wasting his money.

But he may be doing a world of good to the economy of that state by infusing N1billion into its economy, and Hardball is sure the people will receive his money with open arms. It is clear from what he says that he does not abide in the world of ideas. What is he fighting against in Ekiti? Is it the infrastructural developments that his PDP Segun Oni could not do in about six years?

Or is it the quality enhancement of education, or is it healthcare or strides in tourism, or social security for the elderly?

Kashamu does not speak ideas. He only speaks money, and the people of the Southwest know good money from bad money.

Clearly he has not travelled to Osun State to see what Governor Rauf Aregbesola is doing, or Oyo to witness Ajimobi’s performance. If he has and he still wants to spend money against the good thing, then he will fall into what people in the Niger Delta call “money miss road.”

In the interview he also had the indecency to say that he contributed 17 Sports Utility Vans (SUVs) and trailer loads of Ankara for Timipre Sylva, former Bayelsa State governor’s, election. He said the Ankara clothing materials were embossed with his picture and his deputy and he also gave Sylva “lots of cash.” He claimed later that Sylva gave him the IGR and that he transformed N200 million to N1billion monthly. So he is a contractor waiting to make profit for himself!

This is recklessness on a high stage. We need restraint from our politicians, not the brutish extravagance, the type of public desperado like Kashamu wants to feed the public with.

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