The Nation September 02, 2011

Nigeria’s truly national newspaper

IBB speaks on row with Obasanjo •Blames it all on media

400 Nigerians in Chinese prisons

NEWS

NEWS

Page 61

•Majority in jail for drug-related crime

Page 61

http://www.thenationonlineng.net

VOL. 7, NO. 1871 FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

TR UTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM TRUTH

N150.00

Revealed: The Abuja UN House suicide bomber AGONY OF A RELATIVE

Boko Haram identifies its man UN demands justice for victims

Union Bank to recapitalise

A

FEDERAL High Court sitting in Lagos yesterday directed that a meeting of shareholders of Union Bank of Nigeria Plc be held in Abuja on September 30 to approve the Scheme of Arrangement between the lender and its potential core-investor - the African Capital Alliance Consortium (ACA Consortium).

M

OHAMMED Abdul Barra, 27, drove the explosive-laden Honda Accord car that rammed into the United Nations (UN) House in Abuja last Friday, Boko Haram, the controversial Islamic group, said yesterday.

The suicide bombing killed 23 people and injured many others.

The Islamic fundamentalist group, which masterminded the attacks, said it bombed the UN building because the world body is a partner “in the oppression of believers”.

A spokesman for the group, which is believed to have links with al-Qaeda, the international terrorist group founded by the late Osama bin-Laden, Abul Qaqa, was quoted as making the statement by the CNN yesterday. The American cable news network said it had a brief telephone interview with Qaqa, arranged by an intermediary, who was not named.

The claim by the Boko Haram spokesman came a day after the State Security Service (SSS) announced that an al-Qaeda-trained Boko Haram member, Mamman Nur, was the brain behind the bombing.

The SSS has declared Nur wanted. Two others - Babagana Ismail Kwaljima (aka Abu Summaya) and Babagana Mali (aka Bulama) - are being detained in connection with the bombing.

The SSS described Nur as a notorious Boko Haram element with al Qaeda links, who recently returned from Somalia, the Continued on page 6

Business Page 11

NFF to probe Eagles revolt

T

•A relative of the late Rahma Abdullahi, a UN official who died in the attack during her burial in Abuja ... yesterday. Story on page 6.

PHOTO: ABAYOMI FAYESE

Nigeria tightens security against Gaddafi’s men T •Gaddafi

HE Federal Government has tightened security at its borders with Chad, Niger, Cameroon and Benin Republic to prevent the infiltration of Muammar Gaddafi’s forces.

The government was not forced to recognise the Transitional National Council (TNC) in Libya by NATO, the US and the UK, a source said yesterday.

From Yusuf Alli, Abuja

As at press time last night, 34 African countries had recognised the Libyan Transitional National Council, underscoring the fact that beleaguered Gaddafi has lost out in the African Union (AU).

Gaddafi ruled the country with an iron fist. Its regime would have been 42 years

old yesterday.

A top government official, who spoke in confidence with some reporters, including The Nation’s in Abuja, said the government considered the security implications before recognising the TNC. The official said: “I think there is no Continued on page 6

HE Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) will open an inquest into the disagreement that erupted in the Super Eagles’ camp over travel plans to Madagascar.

The team arrived in Antannarivo at 10.30am local time and quickly cleared immigration before settling into their Carlton Hotel lodge. They were well received ...

Sports Page 24

N200m fish gone in Ibadan floods

F

ISH and poultry farmers in Ibadan yesterday claimed that they lost over N200 million worth of table size fish and birds to last Friday’s floods in the city.

Hundreds of hectares of farmlands were also devastated by the flood, which the government said claimed 120 lives.

News Page 8

•SPORTS P15 •POLITICS P17 •AGRIC P34 •LABOUR P45 •BRAND P51

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

2

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

3

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

4

NEWS ENDGAME IN LIBYA

Gaddafi hiding in Bani Walid, says •Deposed leader urges supporters to fight on •Begs Algerian President for asylum

O

USTED Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi yesterday urged his supporters to engulf the country in flames.

Gaddafi, in a message aired by an Arabic television station, said his loyalists should continue the battle whether they hear his voice or not.

The broadcast of the audio tape coincided with the claim by a top military commander of the National Transitional Council (NTC) that the ousted leader is believed to be in the desert town of Bani Walid about 150 km southeast of Tripoli.

Abdel Majid Mlegta, coordinator of the Tripoli military operations room, told Reuters on Thursday “someone we trust” had said Gaddafi had gone to Bani Walid with a son, Saif al-Islam, and intelligence chief Abdullah al-Senoussi three days after the capital fell to rebel forces last week.

“They wanted to set up an operations room there and conduct aggressive operations against us. We have talked to notables from Bani Walid to arrest him and hand him over. They haven’t responded. We are assessing our position.”

The commander said Ali al-Ahwal, Gaddafi’s coordinator for tribes, was also in Bani Walid, a bastion of the powerful Warfalla tribe, Libya’s biggest.

“In four days we will come with up a solution. We are capable of ending the crisis but military action is out of the question right now.

“We cannot attack this tribe because many of our brigades in Benghazi and Zintan are from Bani Walid.

The sons of Bani Walid hold the key to the solution.”

NTC fighters said earlier this week that they were 30 km from Bani Walid.

The NTC has given pro-Gaddafi forces in the coastal city of Sirte, the deposed leader’s hometown, until Saturday to surrender or face attack.

Muammar Gaddafi called Algerian President Abdelaziz Bouteflika to negotiate a passage into his country but the latter refused to take his call, a local newspaper reported on Thursday.

Algeria announced on Monday that Gaddafi’s wife, two of his sons and his daughter had crossed into its territory, prompting Libya’s ruling interim council to demand that they be handed back to face trial.

Quoting a source close to the Al-

gerian presidency, Algeria’s El Watan newspaper said Gaddafi was believed to be on the Libyan-Algerian border town of Ghadamis.

His location remains unknown more than a week after Tripoli fell to his foes.

A top military commander of Libya’s National Transitional Council (NTC) said on Thursday he was believed to be in the desert town of Bani Walid about 150km southeast of Tripoli.

“Gaddafi tried to reach President Bouteflika by phone but he refused to take the call.

“A presidential adviser excused him saying he was absent and busy with events in Algeria,” El Watan quoted the source as saying in a report on its website.

It was not clear when the call was made.

“It is not the first time that Gaddafi and some of his aides have tried to get in touch with the president for potential negotiations.

“However, the Algerian position is clear and neutral and we refuse to get involved in Libya’s internal affairs,” it quoted the source as saying.

No one was immediately available for comment from the Algerian government.

Foreign Minister Mourad Medelci said on Thursday Algeria would not give refuge to Gaddafi himself, although it had allowed Gaddafi’s wife and three of his children to enter the country.

The NTC has denounced the move as an act of aggression.

El Watan quoted the source as saying the NTC had been told about Gaddafi family members crossing into Algeria.

Algeria is the only one of Libya’s North African neighbours yet to recognise the NTC, whose fighters have taken control of the capital Tripoli and much of the rest of the country, ending Muammar Gaddafi’s 42-year rule.

Medelci said Algeria would recognise Libya’s new leaders when they establish a representative government.

Algerian officials say they are concerned Islamist militants have infiltrated the NTC and that al Qaeda’s North African wing will exploit the chaos in Libya to acquire weapons and explosives.

• French President Nicolas Sarkozy (left), shaking hands with Qatar' Sheik Hamad bin Khalifa al Thani before a conference on Libya, at the Elysee Palace in Paris... yesterday.

•A Libyan rebel, playing piano inside the living room in the seaside summer house of Hannibal Gaddafi in Tripoli... yesterday

•A photo of Libyan "Wanted Dead or Alive" Moammar Gaddafi is printed on a free newspaper in Tripoli, Libya...yesterday

•A Libyan elderly man waves the rebellion's flag anniversary of his rise to power...yesterday.

Russia recognises NTC as loyalists get one more week

R

USSIA yesterday said it was recognising the rebel Transitional National Council as Libya’s legitimate government, a move aimed at protecting its economic interests in the oil-rich nation.

Russia’s recognition of the rebel council further isolates Gaddafi on the 42nd anniversary of the military coup that brought him to power.

During those four-plus decades, Russia forged arms, energy and infrastructure deals worth billions of dollars with Libya.

“The Russian Federation recognises the National Transitional Council of Libya as the ruling authority,” said a statement from the Russian foreign ministry posted on its Web site. “We proceed from the position that all previously agreed treaties and other mutual obligations ... will be implemented in good faith.”

Russia did not block a U.N. Security Council resolution vote in March that allowed Western military intervention in Libya. But Moscow has consistently accused NATO

of siding with rebel forces and overstepping its mandate to protect civilians in the six-month civil war.

Now that Gaddafi is in hiding, his government in shambles after rebels seized control of the capital more than a week ago, even close allies are distancing themselves.

Russia’s announcement leaves China as the only permanent member of the U.N. Security Council that does not recognize the rebel council as Libya’s legitimate governing body. Beijing also has billions of dollars in business investments in Libya now at risk.

China intends to send a representative to the meeting Thursday in Paris to discuss Libya’s reconstruction. So far, China has refused to condemn Gaddafi, instead criticizing the NATO-led airstrikes against Gaddafi’s forces.

“China supports the efforts made by all relevant parties for the restoration of stability and smooth power transition in Libya, and stands ready to work along with the inter-

national community to play a positive role in Libya,” said Ma Zhaoxu, China’s foreign minister, in a statement posted on the foreign ministry Web site.

Libya’s ruling National Transitional Council (NTC) has given one extra week to Muammar Gaddafi loyalists to lay down weapons.

The body has extended the deadline for surrender of Gaddafi’s last bastion Sirte by one week, Mohammad Zawawi, an NTC spokesman, said on Thursday.

“We are not in a rush to get in to Sirte. It has no economic importance and we’re not going to lose casualties for it. We can cut supplies and wait, even more than a week,” he said.

Col. Ahmed Bani, a spokesman for the rebel military force, said: “We want to give them time to understand what has happened in Libya.

We want peace.”

The talks come alongside a blockade of supplies to the town, an NTC official said.

Mystery

•Aisha

E

VEN the most hardened Gaddafi critic must have felt sorry this week for his daughter Aisha.

After fleeing Libya for Algeria, her new hosts announced the 35-

year-old had just given birth to a baby girl, barely a day after crossing the border. All very traumatic.

Not least because the birth came barely four months after Aisha claimed a NATO air strike had killed her other baby girl, four-month-old Mastoura.

Two babies in eight months? It’s possible - just about. But it also might not be the first time the Gaddafi regime has used babies as propaganda.

In June, Gaddafi aides took reporters to see a seven-month-old girl who had been injured by NATO strikes. Or so they thought - until a hospital staff member slipped a reporter a note, written in English: ‘’This is a case of road traffic accident. This is the truth.’’

It’s an old trick, too. In 1986, Libyan media reported that Gaddafi’s adopted (and previously unheard

as res

n's flag ay.

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

5

NEWS ENDGAME IN LIBYA

NTC commander

How Cameron blocked loyalists’ oil supplies

A

HANDFUL of British officials have played a crucial role in the Libya conflict by starving Colonel Gaddafi’s supporters of oil.

David Cameron set up the secretive unit in the Foreign Office to mount an economic operation against the regime.

They were tasked with strengthening sanctions against Libya and blocking supplies of crude oil to the dictator’s supporters.

A source close to the operation told Sky News the team played a “very important” role in restricting fuel that was “essential” to Gaddafi’s military operation.

While blocking fuel supplies to Tripoli, the so-called “Libya oil cell” helped make sure the anti-Gaddafi forces continued to receive oil.

In the last weeks of the dictatorship, it is understood that Gaddafi struggled to keep his forces on the move because of his dwindling supplies.

Oil was cental to Colonel Gaddafi’s regime and essential for his military machine, so restricting his ability to refuel was key. The unit was a very important part of our operation.

A British Diplomat said: “Oil was a very important part of Gaddafi’s military machine.

“Our strategy for dealing with the Gaddafi regime was to build pressure on him across the board: diplomatically, politically and economically.

“And the oil cell was part of this multi-faceted and joined-up approach.”

Reports suggested that Alan Dun-

can, the International Development minister, headed up the unit.

But Whitehall sources told Sky News the team was based in the Foreign Office, with around eight officials from the Foreign Office and the Ministry of Defence reporting to the National Security Council on Libya.

The Department for International Development was said to have an “occasional” role.

The team - drawn from officials with relevant expertise - gathered intelligence about oil and fuel movements before providing advice to the Government and Nato.

A Foreign Office source told Sky News: “Oil was central to Colonel Gaddafi’s regime and essential for his military machine, so restricting his ability to refuel was key.

“The unit was a very important part of our operation.”

•Cameron

No favouritism in award of future oil contracts, say rebels

F

as residents of Tripoli tour the destroyed Bab al-Aziziyah former headquarters of Gaddafi on the 42nd

surrounds Aisha Gaddafi babies of) daughter, Hana, had been killed in a US bombing raid. It was plausible - until, 13 years later, a 13-year-old Hana Gaddafi was photographed meeting Nelson Mandela, very much alive.

Then, earlier this year, journalists found financial statements for a Hana Gaddafi - born November 11, 1985 - and were told by Libyan officials she was alive and well, and working as a state doctor.

Quoting an Algerian letter to the United Nations, the US State Department says Aisha gave birth without medical attention on the Algerian-Libyan border as she fled from Libya’s rebel forces.

The Algerian authorities handed over the letter to justify why they were admitting Aisha and other members of Gaddafi’s family on humanitarian grounds.

In February, the UN Security Council imposed a travel ban on Gaddafi and his inner circle, including his wife, Safiya, and Aisha and two of her brothers.

Meanwhile, Zimbabwe’s deputy Prime Minister Arthur Mutambara has hinted that government will grant ousted Libyan leader Colonel Muammar Gaddafi sanctuary if he seeks asylum.

Responding to questions from MPs on rumours that Col Gaddafi is in the country, Prof. Mutambara said there was nothing wrong with offering the former Libyan leader sanctuary.

Foreign newspapers over the weekend were awash with stories that Col Gaddafi had escaped to Zimbabwe.

The Libyan leader has a farm and several properties in Zimbabwe amid claims that all the deals

he struck with President Robert Mugabe were for the latter’s personal benefit.

President Mugabe’s spokesman George Charamba dismissed the reports but refused to answer questions on whether Col Gaddafi will be given asylum.

According to Prof Mutambara, “sometimes individuals are given asylum to promote transition in a country. Sometimes a villain or bad person is given asylum to allow that country to move on.”

“I want to disabuse you of the notion that individuals who are not wanted in their countries should never be given asylum because by giving them you allow for change and progress in those countries.”

UTURE contracts for the Libyan oil sector will be awarded on merit and not political favouritism, the British representative for Libya’s rebel leadership said on Thursday.

“The oil sector will be run in a transparent way and contracts will be awarded on merit, not political favouritism,” Guma al-Gamaty of the National Transitional Council (NTC) told AFP. He spoke after a French press report quoted a purported letter from the NTC saying that it had promised France control of 35 percent of the country’s oil production - a claim denied by the rebel council’s ambassador in Paris.

Gamaty listed companies he said

had a good track record in the Libyan oil sector over the past 15 years: Britain’s BP; France’s Total; ENI of Italy; and “major American companies,” without specifying which groups.

“Their track record and experience and expertise of the Libyan oil sector put them in a strong position, however the principle will be still that contracts are awarded on merit and competitiveness,” he said.

Asked if the NTC had come under pressure to award contracts to companies from Britain or France, countries who backed the rebels in their successful effort to topple leader Muammar Gaddafi, Gamaty responded: “None whatsoever.”

Nigeria colluding with oil hunters over Libya, says Falana

L

AGOS lawyer Mr Femi Falana has accused Nigeria of colluding with those he called oilhunting western countries to attack Libya, a sovereign state.

He said those backing the rebel forces and supporting the arrest and trial of Col Muammar Gaddafi were “hypocrites”. He urged Nigeria to reconsider its stance.

According to him, President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration joined western governments in recognising the rebel forces without any consideration for Nigeria’s strategic interests and the safety of her citizens and other Africans in the war-torn country.

“In fact, the hypocrisy of the so called international community has been patently demonstrated by the United States and other leading western governments which are supporting the arrest and trial of Col Gaddafi when they have refused to ratify the Rome Statute.

“While calling on Nigeria to stop

By Joseph Jibueze

its disgraceful support for western countries that are waging wars for the control of the natural resources of third world countries, the Federal Government should take urgent steps to stop further killing of Nigerians by the rebel forces in Libya,” Falana said in a statement.

The human rights activist said former United States President George Bush and ex-British Prime Minister Tony Blair ought to be tried for crimes against humanity for waging war in Iraq.

“In so far as the International Criminal Court (ICC) cannot arrest and try Messrs George Bush and Tony Blair for the grave crimes against humanity committed by them in Iraq, it has continued to discredit itself.

“Or why has Syria not been invaded and its leader issued with a warrant of arrest? It is a shame that Nigeria has colluded with oil hunting western countries to attack a sovereign state,” Falana said.

6

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

NEWS Victims of bombing must get justice, says UN

T

HE United Nations (UN) yesterday demanded that all those arrested in connection with last Friday’s bomb blast at the UN Building in Abuja should be brought to justice in line with international practice.

UN Resident Co-ordinator in Nigeria Mr. Daouda Toure who made this demand also said the UN has not been officially informed of the arrest of suspects by the Federal Government.

He said the dead from the blast is still 23, saying the UN family in Nigeria is continuing its efforts to support all the victims of the blast. He said the 14 critically injured UN and non-UN persons have been evacuated to South Africa. He insisted that there was no discrimination between the UN staff and others in the evacuation.

Toure declined to mention the names of the dead, but maintained that they included highly qualified staff of the UN. He said the list would only be made public after the death certificates had been received by the UN. He said 70 to 80 per cent of the hospitalised are officials of the World Health Organisation (WHO) whose office is on the first floor of the building.

According to him, procedures have been put in place to facilitate travel of the injured family members to South Africa. A team of UN doctors, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Federal Capital Territory (FCT) are working with medical personnel in the clinics and hospitals where the

From Augustine Ehikioya, Abuja

injured are being treated in Abuja.

On the arrests, Toure said: “This is the second time I am hearing of finding those that were behind this attack. Officially, let me tell you that the UN has not been informed about any arrest of any sort nor identity of those that have been arrested.

Therefore, you will understand that I cannot comment on that question.

“The way forward is to be informed of the arrest. Indeed, we demand that there should be no impunity so that those innocent people are not left to just die. This is something we demand. It is international justice. That is what we are talking about. But I am not yet aware of arrests that have happened or given names of those that have been arrested.”

On the dead and the UN’s future in Nigeria, Toure said: “Their sacrifice will not be in vain; we will strive to pursue our work, the work for the people of Nigeria as prescribed in the UN Charter.

The UN will continue on its mission to improve the lives of poor people, to conquer hunger, disease and illiteracy and to encourage respect for each other’s rights and freedom.”

He said: “Over the past seven days, agencies in the UN Country Team have been assisting the Nigerian government in responding to cholera outbreaks and providing emergency supplies to distressed families as a result of natural or man-made di-

•Relatives of the late Rahma Abdullahi at the burial ... yesterday.

UN House bombing victim buried

M

OURNERS defied an early cold weather to honour the dead.

Rahma Abdulahi died in the suicide bombing last Friday at the United Nations Building in Abuja.

Abudulahi, a UN employee was buried at the Gwarinpa 11 Estate cemetery after the Janasah prayers led by the Chief Missioner of the sasters.”

On the names of the victims, he said: “We cannot provide the names of the victims, unless we have their death certificates. Highly qualified people were lost in the blast. We cannot say now that the list of casualties is closed. We will continue to monitor.”

In the next one week, UN officials will have a temporary office in Abuja, Toure said.

Nigeria tightens security against Gaddafi’s men Continued from page 1

cause for alarm over the security of this country, following our recognition of the TNC as the authentic government in Libya.

“But our security agencies have been placed on the alert in our borders with Niger, Chad, Cameroon and Benin Republic to prevent the infiltration of forces loyal to Gaddafi.

“We took this step because we have realised that some of the problems we have are exported problems. We won’t allow those anti-democratic forces in Libya to enter our country.

“We won’t allow any spillover of those elements against change in Libya from coming into Nigeria.”

Security was tightened at the National Assembly yesterday.

The official also insisted that the ties with the TNC in Libya would bring more security advantage to Nigeria than the case under Gaddafi.

He added: “If we are still on the fence, we would have exposed our country to more security dangers from the TNC in Libya that will soon take over the government in that country.

“By the end of September when the TNC finally takes over Libya, the era of democracy, rule of law and fundamental human rights will set

in. Therefore, Libya will no longer be a training ground for insurrection and insurgents as the case during the tenure of Gaddafi.”

On the recognition of the TNC by the Federal Government – a decision many thought was influenced by external forces - the official said: “This decision was not imposed on us by the US, NATO or any foreign power.

“When the die was cast, Nigeria had to provide leadership to save the situation in Libya. So far, Nigeria’s stand has been vindicated because not less than 34 AU members have recognised the TNC in Libya.

“Even Russia, which was hitherto an ally of Gaddafi, has teamed up with many countries.

Russia was part of the 60 nations that met in France to hold a session as Friends of Libya Group.

“Nigeria did not attend the session in France to prove that its position on Libya was not tele-guided by any foreign country at all.”

The cabinet official gave details of how the Federal Government came to accept the TNC in Libya.

He added: “Contrary to insinuations, we did not take a hasty decision at all. Right from the outset, we realised that the Libyan crisis was a very delicate one and we had handled it that way for so long. We just kept quiet.

“Later, we had many sessions

PHOTO: ABAYOMI FAYESE

From Dele Anofi, Abuja

Ansarudeen, Abuja Branch, Isah Olaofe, at about 12.40pm.

The atmosphere was sombre as Rahma was laid to rest. Family members, friends and well-wishers who waited for the arrival of the body since about 7am erupted into tears.

They wailed uncontrollably.

Giving an insight into the calibre of people who died in the blast, the Representative of UNICEF, Dr. Sumi Sukai, said: “A person who was giving a document to another person that will release the vaccines that are coming to this country, vaccines that are life saving for small children and in this interaction, they were hit by the bomb blast. I am happy to announce that the vaccines are on their way to

They rained curses on the perpetrators of the dastardly act.

Cleric Olaofe enjoined those Rahma left behind to be of good behaviour as death would come without warning as in the case of Abdulahi.

The deceased hailed from Ilorin, Kwara State. Her body was among the first set to be released.

their places.

“We also had colleagues who were working on nutrition so that the small children in northern part of Nigeria, who are facing some malnutrition because of disease, poverty in their family or those that need therapy.

“The other people we are mourning work with statistics office. The statistics of this country to make sure that the country has the best infor-

mation about what is happening to children now and what programme to do in order to improve their situation.

“A colleague, who is receiving treatment in South Africa, is with a special team called chain management. He deals with refrigerators and equipment that are needed in order to make sure that the medicine and vaccine that they give to children are kept in a good condition.”

Revealed: The Abuja UN House suicide bomber Continued from page 1

•President Jonathan

debating Libya, even at the Nigeria Institute for International Affairs (NIIA). It was when the AU’s roadmap, designed by its Ad hoc Committee, led by President Jacob Zuma, failed that we opted for an alternative that will lead Africa to take a decision on Libya.

“Our decision on TNC was guided by two things. These are: National interest and the feeling we had for the people of Libya who have been suffering.

“Nigeria’s foreign policy is tailored towards the promotion of democracy, freedom, good governance and human rights. These are the priorities of the TNC; we have no choice than to back the group - in line with our national interest.

“By the time we accepted the TNC, the rebels had arrived in Tripoli and the exit of Gaddafi was obvious. Why must we continue to back a wrong horse?

“Immediately we backed the TNC, over 34 African countries announced recognition for the group.”

country where al Shabaab Islamic sect which has strong ties with al-Qaeda, is based.

The CNN quoted the Boko Haram spokesman as saying Boko Haram (Western education is evil), which aims to impose a strict version of Islamic law in Nigeria, as saying: “All over the world, the U.N. is a global partner in the oppression of believers. We are at war against infidels. In Nigeria, the Federal Government tries to perpetuate the agenda of the United Nations.”

Qaqa said: “We have told

everyone that the U.N. is the bastion of the global oppression of Muslims all over the world.

“As such, we have warned everyone to steer clear of such places,” he said. “They should steer clear of such places that we have mentioned in the past.

The battle has changed,” the CNN reported.

The UN building house 26 agencies of the world body, among them the World Health Organisation, the U.N. Development Programme, the Children’s organisation UNICEF, the Office on Drugs and Crime, the Joint

Programme on HIV and AIDS and the U.N. Development Fund for Women.

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon sent his deputy, Mrs Asha-Rose Migiro, to Abuja to assess the situation. She was accompanied by UN security chief Gregory Starr.

They met with President Goodluck Jonathan and other top officials of the Federal Government. They also visited the bombed office and the injured in the hospital.

Ki-Moon described the bombing as “an assault on those who devote their lives to helping others”.

World powers pledge $5b to Libyan rebels

W

ORLD powers attending a conference in Paris, the French capital, have agreed a course of action for Libya’s future that includes pledges to free up billions of dollars in frozen assets to help the country’s provisional authority.

United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon told the gathering that Libya’s public services are under severe strain. He said sporadic fighting continues in some parts of the country. He said preparations are underway to effectively coordinate humanitarian aid and to provide assistance to Libyans in

a timely manner.

United States Secretary of State Hillary Clinton told delegates that the U.N. should move to ease restrictions on Libyan assets. She also said the United States has transferred $700 million of the $1.5 billion in assets that were unfrozen for Libya last week.

The U.S., the Netherlands and France have vowed to unfreeze nearly $5 billion in funds withheld from Muammar Gaddafi’s government as it fought rebels seeking to end his 42-year rule.

Also yesterday, the European Union announced it was lifting sanctions on 28 Libyan entities, including

ports, banks and energy companies.

Representatives from 60 nations and Libya’s National Transitional Authority are attending the Paris talks on a Libya without ex-leader Gaddafi.

NTC leader Mustafa Abdel Jalil outlined an 18-month process leading to a new constitution and elections.

Gaddafi delivered a defiant message from an undisclosed location. He said his forces would not surrender and would ultimately be rewarded with victory. His audio statement was carried

by Arabic television stations.

ADVERT HOTLINES: 01-280668, 08070591302, 08052592524 NEWSROOM: LAGOS – 01-8962807, ABUJA – 07028105302 COMPLAINTS: 01-8930678

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

7

NEWS Amaechi urges patience on roads

Abubakar backs national dialogue •To speak on al-Mustapha soon

T

HOSE seeking dialogue as the way forward for Nigeria’s nationhood yesterday got the backing of former military Head of State Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar.

Gen. Abubakar, who handed over power to civilians in 1999 spoke in Minna, after a Sallah visit to the Niger State Government House.

He said:“I am in support of those calling for dialogue. Let us sit down and discu2ss how we can forge ahead as one country. We should realise that the good Lord that brought us together knows what He was doing and we are going to live together.”

Expressing optimism that the country will overcome its trying period, the former head of state argued that in nation building, “you go through thick and thin and you will reach a point when you understand that the ultimate is to

From Jide Orintunsin Minna

sit down and talk as one nation.”

On the incessant bombings and unrest in some parts of the country, the former military leader called for a halt, saying, “it is high time we lived in peace.

All these bombings and unrest in some parts of the country will not take us anywhere.”

Condemning the trouble makers, Abubakar said: “even if this country is divided into 10,000 places, we shall still be each other’s neighbour and we must interact with each other. Why don’t we all stay together and live in peace?

Why can’t we see how we can live together and respect each other’s views?”

Declining to be dragged into speaking on the allegations against him by former Chief Security Officer (CSO) to the late Head of State Gen. Sani Abach, Maj. Hamza al-Mustapha, the

former leader said it was still not expedient for him to react now. al-Mustapha had accused the Abubakar government of masterminding the death in state custody of the acclaimed winner of the June 12 1993 Presidential election, Bashorun MKO Abiola, at a Lagos High Court.

“I am not making a political a statement; when a General prepares for battle, he makes programme and plan. My plan is on and you will hear of it at the right time,” Abubakar said.

When pressed to be categorical on when he will make his position known, Abdulsalami simply said, “Not yet, the time will come, wait for it.”

On the nation’s protracted national crises, the former leader said all hands must be on the deck for project Nigeria. According to him, the call for national dialogue by some progressive-minded people showed that many are

•Gen Abubakar

concerned about the good of the country.

Official car policy still in force, says Fed Govt HE Federal Government yesterday said the policy of monetisation of official vehicles for government functionaries remains in force.

The government also said that it did not grant approval to any government agency to procure and use BMW cars in breach of the existing policy on monetisation which allows only pool vehicles for use during official assignments.

The clarification came via a statement signed by the Deputy Director (Information), in the Office of the Secretary to Government of the Federation, Salisu Na’Inna Dambatta, who said it has come to the notice of the Federal Government that some Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) are spreading unfounded rumours to the effect that some

T

From Vincent Ikuomola, Abuja

government agencies have procured executive BMW cars as official vehicles.

“The Federal Government wishes to state categorically that no approval has been given to any government agency to procure and use BMW cars in breach of the existing policy on monetisation which allows only pool vehicles for use during official assignments.

“The Government hereby re-affirms that the extant policy on monetisation remains in force and that the speculation and rumour on the use of BMW cars as official vehicles by some agencies should be disregarded because they lack substance.”

Rights group: Jonathan committed tactical blunder on Salami’s suspension

H

UMAN rights group, Forum for Justice and Human Rights Defence, has protested President Goodluck Jonathan’s role in the suspension of Court of Appeal President, Justice Ayo Salami, following his face-off with the immediate past Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Alloysius KatsinaAlu. Activists of the group took to Warri streets in Delta State to drive home their point, saying the action against Justice Salami while his case was in court has rubbished the President’s image as an adherent of rule of law.

From Shola O’Neil, Warri

The Mr. Oghenejabor Ikimi-led forum also castigated the Federal Government for what it called its failure to deal with the continued security challenges and various acts of terrorism in the country.

On the suspension of Justice Salami, the human rights group said President Jonathan committed a ‘tactical blunder’ by going ahead with the recommendation of the National Judicial Council (NJC) while Salami is in court challenging his suspension by the said NJC.

“We make bold to state that the above action of the Presidency is a tactical blunder and a total violation of the principles of the rule of law and due process. We therefore call on the Presidency to immediately rescind the above decision in the interest of justice and fair play as same speaks volume of President Goodluck Jonathan’s respect for justice and the rule of law,”it said.

Similarly, FJHD condemned the bombing of the United Nations office in Abuja by Boko Haram, describing the action as dastardly.

Nevertheless, the group said it was saddened over the deteriorating state of security nationwide and called on security agencies to unearth all the culprits behind the recent terrrorist acts and similar ones.

The Federal Government, it said should “stop playing politics with the security of Nigerians, but to take the issue of the security of Nigerians more seriously by properly funding, equipping and repositioning our security agencies to properly deal with the menace and other violent crimes that are presently ravaging our nation.”

RESIDENTS of Rivers State have been urged to exercise patience over the slow pace of work at road construction sites in the state.

Governor Chibuike Amaechi made the appeal during an unscheduled inspection of ongoing projects yesterday.

He urged motorists plying the various routes to be patient with the contractors till after the rains to enable them deliver quality roads.

He said any work during the rains would compromise quality standards and reduce the life span of such projects.

“If they carry out any major work now, in the next two or three years, it will be very bad. We must be patient to allow these contractors do a good job that would last for us.”

“The state has barely four months of construction window,” he said.

The Governor said due to the rains, the government has ordered contractors to shut down full-time construction activities except those at Chief G U. Ake Road and Ken Saro-Wiwa/Stadium road.

Amaechi said the inter-state gateway Elele – Omerulu Road will be completed next June.

In the meantime, Governor Amaechi has stated his plans to build a bigger and better Cultural Centre in Port Harcourt.

CDHR slams Fed Govt over insecurity From Shola O’Neil, Warri THE Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR), yesterday appealed to the Federal Government to tackle the challenges of insecurity and other pressing national demands.

The group frowned at the prevailing insecurity, negligence of infrastructure and inability of government to provide employment for youths, a situation, it says, has aided the surge in militant activities.

The CDHR, in a communique issued at the end of its National Executive council Meeting in Warri, Delta State, condemned in ‘’its entirety the inadequacy and under development of our social, education, political and economic life of the citizens, which has immeasurably aided the uproar in the activities of Boko Haram and other militant activities in the country’’.

Yoruba seek unity at conference

By Musa Odoshimokhe

•President Goodluck Jonathan (middle), his Vice, Namadi Sambo(third left),Director General, Debt Management Office (DMO), Abraham Nwankwo, Cen, Abuja... yesterday.

PHOTO AKIN OLADOKUN

THE Pan Yoruba National Conference scheduled for September 20 at Efunyela Hall, Ikenne, Ogun State, is expected to chart a new course for the Yoruba nation in the unfolding political development in the country.

In a statement made available to The Nation, the conveners of the conference, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade and Yeye Oodua, Mrs H.I.D Awolowo urged the Yoruba to rise to the occasion in order to reclaim their enviable position in the nation’s polity.

They said: “Many eminent Yoruba have, in recent times, felt increasingly uncomfortable with the unmitigated and sustained down-positioning of the Yoruba within the country and their alienation from power and authority within the central government.”

They explained that hostile antiYoruba agenda has attracted critical comments in the media which must be nipped in the bud.

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

8

NEWS IBADAN FLOOD OF TEARS

•A CONDOLENCE VISIT: Oyo State Governor Abiola Ajimobi (second left), listening to Osun State Deputy Governor Mrs Titilayo Laoye-Tomori, Oyo State Deputy Governor Chief Moses Adeyemo and Secretary to the Osun State Government Alhaji Moshood Adeoti (left) during a visit to the Government House, Ibadan... yesterday.

PHOTO: NAN

Jonathan visits Ibadan today From Oseheye Okwuofu, Ibadan

S

EVEN days after floods ravaged the ancient city of Ibadan,killing scores of residents and damaging property worth several billions of naira, President Goodluck Jonathan will today visit the ancient city to commiserate with the government and people. He is expected to visit the areas that were damaged by last Friday’s flood disaster.

The Senior Special Assistant on Media and Communication to Governor Abiola Ajimobi, Dr. Festus Adedayo, yesterday confirmed the visit.

The President had, on Monday, sent the Director-General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Alhaji Mohammed Sanni Sidi, to the state capital to distribute relief materials to the victims.

Replan Ibadan now, CAN chief urges

T

HE President, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Oyo State chapter, Reverend Joseph Akinfenwa, has called on the state government to revisit the infrastructure and town planning laws to avert more flooding.

Noting that last Friday’s disaster was another wake-up call to the federal and state governments, Akinfenwa, in a message, “prayed the good Lord to comfort the families of those who died in the disaster.”

Condemning the bombing of the UN House in Abuja by people suspected to be members of the Boko Haram sect, the cleric urged President Goodluck Jonathan to “recognise Boko Haram saga as a major test of his presidency, and to give it the attention it deserves.”

He added:“In a world that has become extremely wary of terrorism, failure to tactically and decisively respond to such an affront for so long can only be read as a sign of weakness or ineptitude.”

‘N200m worth of fish, poultry swept away by floods’ F

ISH and poultry farmers in Ibadan yesterday claimed that they lost over N200 million worth of table size fish and birds to last Friday flood in the city.

Hundreds of hectares of farmlands were also devastated by the flood which the government said claimed 102 lives.

The Agriculture and Allied Matters Trade Group of the Ibadan Chamber of Commerce and Industries (ICCI) yesterday despatched a Save-Our-Soul (S.O.S.) to the federal and Oyo State governments detailing the losses and pleading for

From Oseheye Okwuofu, Ibadan

assistance.

The Chairman of the group, Chief Emmanuel Ogunnaike, said: “Several fish ponds and poultry farms at different locations of the metropolis were washed away by the devastating flood that wreaked havoc on the state capital.”

Some of the affected fish ponds,

according to him, were located at Akanran beside Omi River, IbadanIfe Road, Eleiyele, Oluyole, OdoOna Elewe and Omi Adio.

“The flood overflowed virtually all the fish ponds and washed away the fish. I don’t know of any fish farmer in Ibadan that was not affected by this terrible experience, unless those that had been operating under close environment,” he said.

“Unfortunately, most of the fish

had already reached table size as we were only waiting for the annual rain to cease so that we could start harvesting. We lost hundreds of millions of naira borrowed fund to the flood disaster.

“It was a terrible, devastating experience. We have never had it so bad. It seems to be the first time in the history of commercial fish farming here in Oyo State, for us to record such a severe loss.

“Government should be magnanimous enough to do everything practicable to assist the affected farmers.”

Ibadan flood a national disaster, says Ekweremadu

S

ENATE Deputy President Ike Ekweremadu yesterday described the devastating flood that swept through the ancient city of Ibadan last Friday as a national disaster.

He said that the calamity qualified as a national disaster, given the socio-economic problems it inflicted on the nation and the strategic place of Ibadan to the country.

Ekeremadu’s position was contained in a letter of condolence he sent to Oyo State Governor Senator Abiola Ajimobi.

Commiserating with the government and people of the state over the disaster, the senator said: “It called for urgent review of the way Nigerians relate with their environment.”

A statement by his Special Advis-

From Onyedi Ojiabor, Assistant Editor

er (Media), Uche Anichukwu, said Ekeremadu decried the number and severity of flood-related tragedies across the nation in recent times.

It quoted Ekeremadu as saying: “The Ibadan incident which came on the heels of such disaster in Lagos, was a clear indication that all was not well with the nation’s environment and the way the people manage and relate to it.

“The increasing incidents of flood disasters in the country bring home the harsh realities of the dangers of climate change and environmental degradation, and therefore call for immediate and concerted efforts by all stakeholders to rise up to the challenges of preserving our

environment.”

Ekweremadu also canvassed urgent response to the infrastructural demands of the nation’s population, strict adherence to the principles of the built environment, such as town planning regulations and environmental awareness campaigns as ways of mitigating the rising excesses of nature and their impacts.

He urged Nigerians to show more respect and discipline in the way they relate with their surroundings and urged the Federal Government, international organisations, Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) and public-spirited individuals to support the Oyo State Government in its efforts to put the affected areas back to normalcy.

He prayed for inner strength for the people of Oyo to pull through

•Ekweremadu

these stressful times occasioned by the tragedy, saying; “I sincerely connect and grieve with you and the state over these sad events, and I send my heartfelt condolences, especially to all those who were bereaved or have been affected in one way or the other by the destructive floods.”

Alaafin,Adewusi urge Fed Govt to rebuild Ibadan

T

HE Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III, yesterday commiserated with those affected by the flood of last Friday in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital. More than 100 died, with property worth several millions of naira destroyed by the flood.

In a statement signed by his Media Assistant, Alhaji Azeez Fehintola, the monarch described the incident as unfortunate and devastating. He prayed God to grant the souls of the dead rest and their families the fortitude to bear the loss.

Oba Adeyemi III also appealed to the Federal Government and wellmeaning Nigerians to intervene in

From Oseheye Okwuofu, Ibadan

rebuilding of the state capital by assisting the state government with funds and necessary logistics.

His words: “By doing this, the future wellbeing of the people of the state will be guaranteed”.

The former Lagos State Finance Commissioner and Oyo State Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) governorship aspirant in the 2007 election, Dr. Ismail Adebayo Adewusi, also condoled the victims, praying God to prevent a recurrence of the unfortunate incident.

In a statement, Adewusi sym-

pathised with victims, their families, relations, praying Allah to grant them the fortitude to bear the loss.

He commiserated with the government of the state for the unfortunate incident akin to the 1980 Ogunpa Flood, while commending it for the prompt action in alleviating the sufferings of the affected people.

Adewusi admonished residents to adhere to the tenets of hygiene by avoiding indiscriminate discharge of refuse into streams and canals, a factor believed to have been principally responsible for the monumental flood disaster.

The statement reads: “Our people should try and avoid dumping refuse in waterways, drainages and canals so that water will no longer overflow bridges, thereby flooding residential areas as witnessed last week. It is high time we obeyed the principles of hygiene to forestall future recurrence.”

Adewusi appealed to the people to cooperate with Governor Abiola Ajimobi in its drive to sanitise the state capital through clearing of illegal structures erected on waterways and those close to canals, stressing; “it is all in the interest of the welfare and safety of the people of the state.”

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

9

NEWS

Youths, security agents T clash in Jos HE violence that erupted in Jos, the Plateau State capital, on Monday, continued yesterday as youths in Dutse Uku area of the town clashed with security agents.

Gun shots were reportedly exchanged for over four hours.

Though no casualties were reported, the confrontation forced the residents to remain indoors.

A House of Representatives member, Peter Akujah, has appealed for peace.

Akujah represents Jos North/Bassa, the area that has been embroiled in violence since Monday.

The Nation gathered that trouble started when some Muslim youths came to the Christian area of Dutse Uku. The Christian youths demanded to know their mission.

Sources said the confrontation led to gun battle.

Gun shots were heard everywhere and residents scampered for safety.

Most shops and other businesses at Tina junction, YanTrailer, Angwang Rukuba as well as St. Michael’s, in Nasarawa, were shut.

Most residents remained indoors for fear of getting caught in the violence.

Those who went to the city centre found it difficult to return home as commercial vehicles closed early for the day.

A resident, Mr. Ike Okechukwu, whose shop is located at Tina junction, said a se-

•Rep calls for peace From Marie-Therese Peter, Jos

curity agent, who tried to intervene in the quarrel, was shot.

The spokesman of the Special Task Force on Jos crises, Capt. Charles Ekeocha, did not answer or return the calls The Nation made to his number.

Police spokesman Apev Jacob, an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), said he did not have details of the violence.

He said he was on his way to the Maxwell Khorbe Cantonment, Rukuba, for a meeting.

Akujah said only dialogue, reconciliation and true forgiveness would end the bloody clash among Jos residents.

Addressing reporters yesterday in Jos, the lawmaker described as unnecessary the incessant crises in the area.

He said: “Only few weeks ago, I spoke on how to maintain the peace we were having in the state only for another crisis to erupt. I still maintain that only dialogue and peaceful co-existence can solve the problem we have in the state. Nothing can be achieved under an atmosphere of bitterness and ran-

cour.”

Akujah visited the victims who were receiving treatment at the Bingham University Teaching Hospital, Jankwano.

He paid for their treatment.

The lawmaker, who said he was disturbed by the destruction in the Monday skirmishes, urged the youths to lay down their arms and embrace one another.

He noted that the recent clashes had shattered the state’s years of peace-building.

The lawmaker said he could only bring development to his domain when there is peaceful coexistence among the residents.

He added: “Even if I am to discuss with the people on what to do for them, how can I call them together now? It is just impossible. This is why I say we should live together and understand the feelings and sensibilities of our neighbours.”

The lawmaker urged religious and traditional rulers to call their subjects to order so that peace could reign again.

He also appealed to security agencies to be alive to their responsibility to nip in the bud any security threat before it escalates into acts of destruction.

‘Minimum Wage Law only cares for Level 1 workers’ From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

•Abdulfatah Ahmed

T

HE Kwara State Government yesterday said the N18,000 new minimum wage law cares for workers on Grade Level 1, Step 1.

The Head of Service, Alhaji Dabarako Mohammed, addressed reporters in Ilorin, the state capital, at a special programme organised by Radio Kwara.

Before the Eid-el-Fitri break, the workers had rejected their August salaries, saying it was at variance with the implementation formula the state Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) reached with the government.

Mohammed said: “The minimum wage law only cares for officers on Grade Level 1, Step 1. Anybody above this level, the law cares less about them. This is our interpretation of the new minimum wage law.

“What the law says is that an employer of labour who has up to 50 workers must not pay anyone less than N18,000.

In Kwara today, the minimum wage is fixed at N18,300.

Therefore, we have obeyed the law by placing every worker in the state above N18,000 monthly.”

The Head of Service said

officers from Grade Levels 1 to 10 are enjoying the benefit of the new law while others have a 30 per cent salary increase.

He reminded those agitating for a blanket implementation of the minimum wage law that “there is always the application of the principle of sliding scale when salaries are increased”.

Mohammed said: “The best practice in the world is to obey the law. We have obeyed the law as far as the minimum issue is concerned. We must do things in a way that no worker goes out of work.”

According to him, the implementation of the N18,000 minimum wage has caused the government extra N241million on workers’ monthly salary.

Mohammed said the state has implemented the provisions of the new minimum wage law.

The HOS said the N241million was an upward

review of the N200million his office recommended to Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed as the cost of implementing the new salary regime.

He said there would be no upward review of workers’ pay until there is an upward review of federal allocation formula in favour of states and local governments.

Mohammed noted that for the first time in the history of Kwara State, pensioners numbering 11,000 and government parastatals were catered for in the implementation of the new salary structure.

He urged the workers to appreciate the gesture of the Ahmed administration, saying only six other states had issued circulars on the new salary structure.

“If one comes to terms with the reality that Kwara is the 31st state in the federal allocation table, the workers should bear with the government until there is an upward review of the federal statutory allocations to states and local governments,” he said.

Soldiers shoot two Boko Haram suspects

M

EN of Operation Tsaro, the military outfit maintaining peace in Adamawa State, yesterday in Song gunned down two motorcyclists suspected to be members of the Boko Haram sect.

The Public Relations Officer (PRO), 3 Armoured Division, Nigeria Army, Jos, Lt.-Col. Idachaba Idu, said one of the suspects died instantly while the other was injured.

He said the suspects were armed with an AK47 rifle and two magazines loaded with 17 rounds of 7.62 calibre ammunition.

“The suspects tried to escape after firing a shot, but the soldiers from the 23 Brigade in Yola shot them down,” Idu said.

10

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

NEWS Soldiers demolish factory in Akure From Damisi Ojo, Akure

WNERS of a factory demolished by soldiers on Sunday were still mourning their losses yesterday.

Soldiers from 323 Artillery Battalion of the Nigerian Army, Owena Barracks, Akure, the Ondo State capital, allegedly demolished a wood factory, Progress Wood, situated opposite their barracks on Ondo road. They allegedly vandalised property worth N5 million.

The company’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Akintunde Adebiyi, said the soldiers pulled down the fence and a section of his factory wall, exposing the equipment to thieves.

Adebiyi said: “They destroyed the administrative office, pulled down the aluminum windows and destroyed the roof.

The whole place was flooded by yesterday morning’s downpour.”

He alleged that the soldiers’ action followed his refusal to give money to some officers in the barracks.

Adebiyi alleged that those officers had been extorting money from him on the pretence of providing security for the area.

But the Commanding Officer, Col. S. Nwafor, said his men invaded the factory because it was built on land belonging to the Army.

He said: “Adebiyi had been paying rent on the land for sometime now before he suddenly came with a letter from his lawyer, saying he would not pay again as the land was not that of the Army.”

Col. Nwofor said he showed Adebiyi’s lawyer the document which certified that the land belonged to the Nigerian Army.

As at press time, sources said Governor Olusegun Mimiko was in a meeting with Col. Nwafor, the Chief of Staff and officials of the Ministry of Lands and Housing on the matter.

Police spokesman Aremu Adeniran said: “If a case of wilful damage is reported against any person or group, it is left for the police to investigate. We will do just that and bring the culprits to book.”

O

LASIEC boss assures parties of credible polls HAIRMAN, Lagos

C

State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC), Justice AbdulFatah Adeyinka (rtd) has assured all parties that the Local Government Elections scheduled for October 22 will be free, fair and credible.

Justice Adeyinka spoke yesterday during a meeting with party representatives at the commission’s secretariat in Yaba, Lagos, on the update of notice of election and guidelines.

He said 28 parties have obtained nomination forms.

The former Chief Judge of Lagos said the commission had written the three deregistered parties, namely National Action Council, Nigeria People’s Congress and Masses Movement of Nigeria, to return their forms.

He said: “We expect that in due course, all parties that obtained the nomination forms will fill and return them to LASIEC. “Upon applications by fourteen political parties for an extension of time, we discovered the need to extend the period for the conduct of party primaries

By Tajudeen Adebanjo

in order to give more time for preparation.

“As you all are aware, it is our tradition and standing policy to always carry all our stakeholders along when taking vital decisions.

The purpose of this meeting is to promote maximum participation of parties in the 2011 Local Council Elections in Lagos State.”

Justice Adeyinka reiterated the need to mobilise the people to come en masse to vote for candidates of their choice.

He said: “LASIEC is committed to organising free, fair and credible elections. In the last few weeks, we have been making efforts to sensitise voters.

“We shall begin to air other sensitisation messages as time goes on. The commissioners and members of staff are working day and night to achieve hitch free elections. LASIEC cannot do it all alone.

“Let us all be security conscious and educate our supporters on the need to conduct themselves with decorum.”

Bomb scare: Lagos tightens security

By Miriam Ndikanwu

ORKERS in the Lagos State Service resumed work yesterday, after the Sallah break, to meet more stringent security at the Secretariat, Alausa. The strengthened security, it was learnt, was as a result of rumours that the state is being targeted by the Boko Haram sect.

The gate of the Deputy Governor’s Office was closed to visitors and staff of the secretariat. Only the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, and her staff were allowed through it.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations) Tunde Shobulo monitored the enforcement of the new restriction order, which we learnt was from the Office of Governor Babatunde Fashola.

To demonstrate the need for people to comply, Shobulo and the Commander of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Hakeem Odumosu, whose offices were a few metres away from the barricaded gate, drove through another gate.

The gate of the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium was also barricaded. It had been shut since Monday, after last Friday’s bombing of the United Nation’s building in Abuja.

Some staff said the restriction will compound traffic in the secretariat.

They urged security agencies to install bomb detectors and cameras at designated places around the secretariat to expose any suspicious movement.

W

Ekiti workers get minimum wage this month W

ORKERS on the payroll of the Ekiti State Government will start enjoying the N18,000 minimum wage this month.

Governor Kayode Fayemi confirmed this yeserday while declaring open a twoday Public Service Forum held in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital.

He said stakeholders on government’s side and that of Labour would soon conclude negotiations to pave the way for the implementation of the new wage.

Fayemi said the welfare of workers was critical to his administration and thanked them for standing by him throughout the three-and-a half years struggle to reclaim his stolen mandate.

He said: “The state government is committed to the payment of the N18,000 minimum wage. I am confident that all those involved in negotiations on both sides would soon conclude.

“It is not correct for anyone to insinuate that the government is foot-dragging. I have said it countless times that Nigerian workers deserve better conditions of service as evident in wages, right tools and environment to bring out the best in them.

“This is more so because they are the geese that lay the golden eggs; they deserve commensurate pay for their

•500 headteachers write exam From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado Ekiti

labour.”

The Head of Service, Mr. Olubunmi Famosaya, urged workers to shun “unnecessary industrial actions” as government was working towards meeting their requests.

He praised the Fayemi-led administration for taking workers’ welfare serious by prompt payment of salary, restoration of car and housing loans, approval of backlog of promotions and commencement of a contributory pension scheme.

Also, over 500 secondary school principals across the 16 local governments sat for an examination this week.

The exam is part of efforts to streamline the merger of state-owned junior and secondary schools.

Fayemi said the principals were asked to propose a five-year education improvement plan for their schools.

He said civil servants, teachers and public school pupils would no longer enjoy automatic promotions without passing the required examinations.

This, the governor said, would clear the rot that has eaten deep into the public service and schools.

He said: “I am not aware of any civil service rule that says you can’t subject them to regular exams. Roughly 500 principals took this exam two days ago as part of efforts to streamline the merger.

“We are not apologetic about public servants, teachers and students earning their promotion through examinations. There is no longer automatic promotion; you must pass an exam to move to the next level.

“The current Head of Service took an exam before coming into office. Permanent secretaries, directors and assistant directors are taking exams now and such exams are not targeted at manipulating the system or finding avenues to dismiss any officer. But I want to stress that we are really in a mess. The government has also put in place incentives to motivate teachers.”

Fayemi said having separate principals in charge of junior and senior students in a secondary school had created “artificial separation”

of schools and unhealthy rivalry among principals, which was not in the best interest of education.

He said reverting to the old system would ensure effectiveness and efficiency in teaching.

Fayemi said principals and vice-principals would no longer perform only administrative duties, but also teach students.

On the urban renewal policy of his administration, which led to the demolition of structures erected in unauthorised places, Fayemi said last Friday’s flood that ravaged Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, had justified the exercise.

He said more houses would have to give way to make Ado-Ekiti a befitting state capital, adding that those affected had been relocated.

Fayemi said: “We have had cause to demolish houses built on waterways and other unauthorised places and that is what the Oyo State Government has resolved to do in view of the recent flood in Ibadan.

“People will react negatively to such a step, but it is in their overall interest because building of illegal structures and non-compliance with town planning laws is responsible for some of these avoidable disasters.”

•From left: Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi; President, Igbimo Ure (IUE) Ekiti, Prince Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi; and member, IUE, Revd. Michael Ipinmoye, during a seminar on Youth Empowerment in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital... yesterday.

N19,000 minimum wage divides striking Osun workers T HE increase of the minimum wage to N19,000 by the Osun State Government has divided striking workers, as some of them are eager to resume work.

Yesterday, labour leaders were forced to call an emergency meeting, where they persuaded workers on why the implementation of the N18,000 minimum wage across board must be upheld.

Trade Union Congress (TUC) Chairman Francis Adetunji, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Chairman Saka Adesiyan and Leader of the Joint Negotiation Councils 1, 2 and 3, Bayo Adejumo insisted that they must fight on until government heeds their demands in full.

From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

Many workers, it was learnt, left the meeting angrily, after advising the labour leaders to thread with

caution, so as not to be seen as undermining the state’s development.

Also yesterday, the labour leaders, at a press conference, alleged that the government lied to

traditional rulers and religious leaders on the financial status of the state.

Adetunji said the government could conveniently pay the N18,000 minimum wage across board with the average income of the state, which he put at N3.9 billion.

Oyo council boss alleges stockpiling of arms

T

HE Caretaker Committee Chairman of Orelope Local Government Council of Oyo State, Mr. Samuel Odenibi, yesterday raised the alarm over alleged stockpiling of arms and ammunition by some groups in the community.

Odenibi said: “There is need for the police to embark on a house to house search to recover the arms that have been stockpiled. I have made efforts to broker peace in the community. Many of our illustrious sons and daughters have deserted Igboho because of

From Oseheye Okwuofu, Ibadan

regular crisis.”

Divisional Police Officer (DPO), Igboho Police Station, Mr. Chime Chukwu said stockpiling of arms was rampant in the town because of its closeness to the Republic of Benin border.

He said: “We solicit the support of members of the public because the police cannot do it alone. We want the indigenes to alert us about suspicious activities of those believed to be stockpiling arms.”

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

11

BUSINESS THE NATION

E-mail:- bussiness@thenationonlineng.net

Nigerian crude offered at high price

R

Union Bank gets court’s nod for A recapitalisation plan

ELATIVELY healthy refining margins for lighter products held offer prices on Nigerian light crude at the highest level in more than two years, while dealing was thin yesterday ahead of the release of Asian import tender results. “Light barrels are very strong. In the short term, at least, refiners have good margins,” a trader said. “Without Libyan crude, sweet is too tight.”

But other traders said there has been some slowdown in demand from the United States.

One trader pointed to larger increases in crude stocks in the U.S. Midwest and Gulf Coast, known as PAD II and PAD III, than in other areas last week.

“Look at the builds in PADD II and III. Watch for the next two weeks too,” another trader said. “Premiums cannot hold at current levels.”

Q u a Iboe was offered at premiums of about $4.60/$4.70 a barrel to dated BFOE. No cargoes were yet reported sold at that level, which is the highest since July 2008.

BFO-QUA Traders said Tunisia was looking for endOctober Bonny Light. However cargoes were not available due to the force majeure throughout October.

Price levels before the force majeure were dated plus $3.50/$3.60.

A l l the Akpo cargoes for October were sold around the dated plus $2.10-$2.40 range. Petrobras might have bought all the cargoes, some traders said.

Roughly 25 cargoes of October loading Nigerian were still available.

BP was offering Agbami into Asia, but details did not emerge.

Traders awaited the result of Vietnam’s tender to buy October crude. It was looking to buy sweet crude from West Africa or Asia Pacific. The result was expected to be released on Friday.

Federal High Court sitting in Lagos yester day directed that a meeting of shareholders of Union Bank of Nigeria Plc be held in Abuja on September 30 to approve the Scheme of Arrangement between the lender and its potential coreinvestor - the African Capital Alliance Consortium (ACA Consortium).

This will automatically pave way for Union Bank, which is the only stand alone bank out of the eight rescued banks, to be recapitalised in time for Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) deadline.

According to a statement from the Union Bank, shareholders are expected to approve the new paid up share capital as well as the ratio of ordinary shares to be held by existing shareholders in the new dispensation.

They will also approve the allocation of shares to the Asset Management Corpora-

DATA STREAM

RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan yesterday inau gurated the Supervisory Board of Debt Management Office (DMO), with a charge to maintain sustainable debt profile.

Speaking while inaugurating the new board under the Chairmanship of the Vice President, Namadi Sambo, he urged the panel to chat a new policy initiative in public debt management.

This he said is particularly important because of the challenges posed by the current global debt crisis, which threatens the global economy especially in emerging economies like Nigeria.

Nigeria’s current total debt profile is $39.7 billion, which is 20 per cent of her Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Domestic debt accounts for N5.2 trillion while external debt is $5.3 billion.

The President said: “Given the present composition of the supervisory board in the able hands of His Excellency Arc

COMMODITY PRICES Oil -$109.7/barrel Cocoa - $2,856/metric ton Coffee - ¢132.70/pound Cotton - ¢78.07.pound Gold -$1,161/troy ounce Rubber - ¢146.37/pound MARKET CAPITALISATIONS NSE JSE NYSE LSE

-N7.3 trillion -Z5.112trillion -$10.84 trillion -£61.67 trillion RATES Inflation -10.2% Treasury Bills -2.64% Normal lending -24% Prime lending -18% Savings rate -3% 91-day NTB -6.99% Time Deposit - 6% MPR -8% Foreign Reserve -$34.7bn FOREX CFA 0.281 • 213 £ 241.00 $ 150.7 ¥ 1.5652 SDR 240.3 RIYAL 39.3

Government has incorporated the Bulk Trader as a guarantor to boost confidence in potential investors that they will be paid for the power they generate and sell to the distribution companies.

-President Goodluck Jonathan

By Ayodele Aminu

tion of Nigeria (AMCON), which is expected to move Union Bank from negative to zero capital.

Also for approval is a resolution on the 1,407,291,667 ordinary shares of 50 kobo each to be offered to existing shareholders by way of a rights issue.

Union Bank was one of nine banks (Wema Bank, Afribank, Spring Bank, BankPHB, Intercontinental Bank, Oceanic Bank, Finbank, and Equatorial Trust Bank) rescued in a N620 billion bailout by the banking watchdog in 2009.

Already, Wema Bank and Unity Bank have been recapitalised, while Afribank, Spring Bank, BankPHB have been nationalised and their

assets transferred to the three newly formed banks – Mainstreet, Enterprise and Keystone. This followed the defunct banks inability to show that they could recapitalise before the September 30th deadline.

Industry analysts blamed some of the shareholders of the liquidated banks for refusing to adopt a pragmatic approach thereby frustrating the whole process.

“They resorted to legal interference to stop the management of the banks from negotiating with interested investors all in a bid to protect their selfish interests and oil their wheel of greed, disregarding the proviso that that the regulator would have no option than to liquidate banks for which negotiation cannot

be concluded before the end of the set deadline,” one analyst noted.

The AMCON CEO, Mustapha Chike-Obi has said that if the various opposing shareholders do not retrace their steps and rethink quickly, their banks would also be liquidated. This means that the shareholders in these banks will lose their investments.

Although five banks, namely: Intercontinental Bank Plc, Oceanic Bank, Finbank, Union Bank and Equatorial Trust Bank (ETB) had signed TIAs with their co-investors, the conclusion of the process depends on the regulatory approval and court ordered shareholders meeting to endorse and approve the deals.

Banks that have also obtained their court ordered meeting approval meetings include – Intercontinental 26 th September; Oceanic Bank 27 th September and Finbank 29th September.

The aim was to ensure they beat the apex bank’s deadline for recapitalisation and place them in a position to hold Extraordinary General Meetings (EGM).

The last of the five rescued banks to file TIA is ETB, which it has with Sterling Bank Plc, and informed sources also confirmed that their process will be concluded early next week.

The rescuers of the five banks are Access Bank Plc, (Intercontinental Bank Plc), Eco Bank Transnational Incorporated, (Oceanic), FCMB Plc, (Finbank).

Others are African Alliance Capital (Union Bank) and Sterling Bank Plc (ETB).

Why we are empowering Niger Delta contractors,

by Shell From Bisi Olaniyi, Port Harcourt

T

• President/Chairman, NIM, Dr Sally Nkem Adkwu-Bolujoko (left) presenting life members award to Ola Vincent former CBN Governor and Alhaji Ganiyu Otiti former Executive of the CBN, during the Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM) jubilee award held at the Lagoon Restaurant Victoria Island, Lagos...yesterday.

PHOTO: RAHMAN SANUSI

Jonathan to DMO: maintain sustainable debt profile P From Vincent Ikuomola, Abuja

Namadi Sambo and of course the coordinating minister on the economy, who was instrumental, I have no doubt that this board is capable of chatting new policy initiatives in public debt management necessary for the accomplishment in the transformation agenda of the government.

“This is particularly important because of the challenges posed by the current sovereign debt crisis in Europe and the United States of America, which appears to threaten the global economy in general in emerging economies like Nigeria in particular.

“It is therefore imperative that as you take up this assignment you reflect seriously on your mandate in the light of the country’s debt history and evolving realities of public debt management.

“May I use this opportunity to challenge the board to guide the DMO to develop requisite frame works for prudence, effective and sustainable mobilisation of the used financial resources required to facilitate the transformation agenda of the government while still maintaining the country’s public debt profile at sustainable levels,” he said.

The board is charged with the responsibilities of approving policies, strategies and procedures, which are to be adopted by the office for the achievement of its mandates.

It will also be expected to review the economic and political impact of both domestic and external debt management strategies among other functions.

The president also commended DMO, which was established 12 years ago to address the numerous deficiencies in the management of the country’s

debt.

The supervisory board of the DMO is a statutory creation of the Act establishing the office.

In his remark, the vice president assured that the board is determined to “ensure that the debt management office gets all the necessary guidance and the support it requires to attain this outlined mandate.”

Members of the supervisory board of the DMO include Vice President Sambo, who is the chairman, Ngozi OkonjoIweala, minister of finance and coordinating minister on the economy, Muhammed Bello Adoke, attorney general of the federation and minister of justice, Nwaneze Okidegbe. Others are chief economic adviser to the president, Sanusi Lamido, governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), accountant general of the federation, and Bright Okogu, director general of DMO, who doubles as secretary of the board.

HE Shell Petroleum Development Company’s (SPDC) General Manager, Nigerian Content Development, Mr. Igo Weli, has disclosed that empowering Niger Delta contractors through entrepreneurial skills, will make them to also operate at the global scene as better managers.

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Heirs Holdings, Mr. Tony Elumelu, also urged the Anglo/Dutch oil giant (SPDC) to continue patronising contractors from its host communities in the Niger Delta, to ensure peace and transformation of the region and its people.

They stated these yesterday at the Hotel Presidential, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, at the SPDC’s Community Content Business Clinic, with one hundred contractors from across the nine states of the Niger Delta in attendance.

The maiden edition of the clinic for the indigenous contractors was held in November last year, with Shell’s general manager, Nigerian content development assuring that it would continue as an annual event.

Weli said: “The aim of the community content business clinic is to interact with our local contractors. The key focus is building their entrepreneurial skills, to help them improve as managers.

“If you look at all the success stories in the world around business development, they have to do with having the skills to manage business, not just funding and other things we think are the issues.

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

12

BUSINESS NEWS Flight Schedule MONDAY - FRIDAY

• From right: Divisional Executive Corporate Services of FinBank Plc, Mrs. Jane Ogbonna; Counseller-Political of the South African High Commission, Mrs. Thandi Mgxwati; Company Secretary/Legal Adviser of the Bank, Dr. Nechi Ezeako; Divisional Head Treasury, Mr. Emmanuel Onokpasa and the Group Head Management Services, Pamela Edozie; during a visit by the High Commission to FinBank.

Ghana keeps benchmark interest rate unchanged

G

HANA’s central bank left its benchmark in terest rate unchanged for the first time in three meetings as growth in Africa’s newest oil exporter surged, adding to pressure on inflation.

The key lending rate was kept at 12.5 percent, Governor Kwesi Amissah-Arthur told reporters yesterday in the capital, Accra. Three of seven economists surveyed by Bloomberg forecast the decision, while the rest expected a rate cut.

Ghana’s economy expanded 23 per cent in the first quarter following the start of oil production at the Jubilee field, the statistics agency said June 22. Rising wage demands, higher power and water costs and climbing oil prices may result in the “overheating of the economy,” threatening to boost inflation, which was at 8.4 percent in July, the governor said.

“The Monetary Policy Committee is of the view that inflation has bottomed and that there are upside risks to inflation,” Yvonne Mhango, an economist at Renaissance Capital in Johannesburg, said in an email yesterday. “Part of that risk may include the increase in utility tariffs.”

Euro rescue fund faces political demands

E

UROPE’s rescue fund faces po litical demands that risk hob bling its response to emergencies as the 17 euro-area governments prepare to ratify its overhaul.

The fund, known as European Financial Stability Facility, would have to wait for a request from a debt-hit government before buying its bonds in the secondary market, its new statute shows. According to Bloomberg, the extra step, along with German lawmakers’ demand for control, may make it less responsive than the European Central Bank, which has bought 115.5 billion euros ($167 billion) of bonds in the past 16 months to calm markets.

“What’s clear is that even if the EFSF is ostensibly equipped to react swiftly in an emergency, it will be much less dynamic than the ECB,” said Daniela Schwarzer, senior analyst at the Berlin-based German Institute for International Politics and Security. “Faced with an emergency I would be inclined to put my money on the bank taking the reins of rescue action - as it has done and is doing.”

Naira may be devalued, says Renaissance T

HE naira has a 40 per cent probability of be ing devalued to N155 per dollar in 2012 on or before 2012, Renaissance Capital has said.

The global research outfit, which spent three days (22-24 August) in Lagos and Abuja meeting with government officials and development partners, based its forecast on the premise that oil prices may drop and that the government is likely to raise investments in roads and rail. These are expected to raise imports.

The naira currently exchanges at the official market at N152.40 per dollar; N155 at the inter-bank (where banks buy foreign exchange to cover their positions) and N162 at the black market.

Renaissance Capital also noted that some vested interests (suppliers and importers of generators) have been stalling the reform in the power sector.

“We think there is currently a 40% probability that the naira will be devalued in 2012 to NGN155/$1. Over the next couple of months, the finance ministry and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) will review the oil price, foreign exchange reserves and the recent history of imports, amongst other factors, as they deliberate the exchange rate for the 2012 budget,” Renaissance Capital said its

By Ayodele Aminu, Group Business Editor

report, which was obtained by The Nation yesterday.

The report titled “Nigeria: Moving beyond the promises to deliver – The next 6-12 months are critical,” noted that foreign reserves are likely to remain flat and the scope for a strong recovery in reserves in 2012 is now smaller.

“This implies that there are additional, unknown pressures on forex reserves, which explains why the naira has only traded in the top half of the NGN150/$1 (+/-3%) trading band YtD. Moreover, this new administration’s infrastructure programme implies that demand for imported capital equipment and machinery is likely to rise over the short-to-medium term. On this basis, we project a moderate devaluation of the naira to NGN155/$1,” the experts said.

Noting that about $185million per month is spent on generators and the number is rising, Renaissance Capital said “inertia as much as vested interests has been a significant stumbling block” in the power sector reform.

It also said that the concerns that dissension may arise between the finance minister, Dr. Ngozi OkonjoIweala and the CBN over the latter’s

intervention funds for various sectors including power will be mitigated by the fact that most of the funds (about 60-70 per cent of the $3billion intervention fund) have already been disbursed.

The experts however, commended some ministerial appointments, including the former World Bank Managing Director Dr. Okonjo-Iweala.

“These include the return of the finance minister under the previous administration, Olusegun Aganga as minister of trade and investment; Professor Bart Nnaji, who led the power sector taskforce, as the critical minister of power and Dr. Akinwinmi Ayo Adesina as minister of agriculture.

“The appointment of a technocrat such as Aganga to the renamed ministry of trade and investment (formerly commerce and industry) we believe signals the government’s elevation of trade, which government previously had showed little interest in under the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) by relegating trade to a director in the former ministry. Aganga has already set up a committee that will review Nigeria’s trade policy, which will be completed in January 2012,” Renaissance Capital noted.

Nigerian envoy wants Nigeria-China trade imbalance addressed NIGERIA’s Ambassador to China Aminu Wali said yesterday that Nigeria would have to increase its exports to China as the trade balance was in the ratio of 7:1 in favour of the Asian country.

“Chinese exports to Nigeria stood at seven billion dollars in 2010, while Nigeria exported goods worth a little less than one billion dollars to China during the period.”

Wali, who spoke with a group of Nigerian journalists in Beijing, noted that Chinese businessmen and government were anxious to buy goods from Nigeria.

“Some Nigerian businessmen had approached us for information on doing business in China and we always encouraged them to look more in the areas of solid minerals and agricultural produce.

“Nigeria is currently China’s second biggest trading partner in Africa- after south Africa- but we can

be number one in two to three years.

“Though China is making inroads in the Nigerian oil sector, I am more concerned with the solid minerals and agricultural produce.”

Wali observed that China had been able to remove 300 million of its citizens from living below the poverty level in the last 30 years, adding that Nigeria could adapt the Asian country’s model.

News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that China still has 150 million of its 1.3 billion population living below poverty level, but that indications on ground show that they would soon be prosperous.

“There are Chinese that are still poor but they have the basic necessities of life including electricity, pipe borne water and food on their table,” Wali said.

On the influx of inferior goods into Nigeria from China, he said

that dubious Nigerian businessmen were largely to blame.

He noted that Chinese goods were meeting the standard in the US, the EU and other developed nations but remained sub-standard in Nigeria because Nigerian importers wanted maximum profit.

He, however, said that the Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) and its Chinese counterpart had been meeting over the issue and would soon sign an agreement that would ensure that Chinese exports to Nigeria were inspected and certified before being allowed into Nigeria.

Wali noted that the enabling environment for the setting up of industries in Nigeria was also being addressed.

According to the ambassador, no Chinese industrialist will be too eager to move his factory to Nigeria for now because of unstable electricity supply.

LAGOS – ABUJA Departure Arrival 1. Aero 06.50 08.10 2. Associated 07.00 09.30 3. Air Nigeria 07.00 08.20 4. IRS 07.00 08.20 5. Dana 07.02 08.22 6. Arik 07.15 08.15 7. Chanchangi 07.15 8. Air Nigeria 08.15 09.35 9. Dana 08.10 09.20 10. Aero 08.45 10.05 11. Arik 09.15 10.15 12. Chanchangi 10.00 11.00 13. IRS 11.15 12.35 14. Dana 12.06 12.26 15. Aero 12.20 13.30 16. Air Nigeria 13.25 14.45 17. Chanchangi 13.30 14.30 18. Arik 13.45 14.45 19. IRS 14.00 15.20 20. Aero 14.10 15.30 21. Air Nigeria 14.50 16.10 22. Dana 15.30 16.50 23. Chanchangi 15.30 16.30 24. Arik 15.50 16.50 25. Aero 16.00 17.20 26. IRS 16.30 17.50 27. Arik 16.50 17.50 28. Dana 17.10 18.30 29. Chanchangi 17.30 18.30 30. Air Nigeria 17.35 18.55 31. Air Nigeria (T/TH) 18.30 19.50 32. Arik 18.45 19.45 33. Aero 19.20 20.40 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

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

1.

2.

3.

4.

Arik Aero Arik Aero

1. Arik 2. Aero 1.

2.

3.

4.

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

LAGOS – KADUNA Aero 08.00 Chanchangi 10.00 Arik 10.00 Arik 15.10

08.30 09.10 11.50 12.45 13.40 15.20 16.30 16.40 08.50 12.40 14.10 17.20 12.15 12.45 09.10 11.00 11.10 16.20

LAGOS – PORT HARCOURT (CIVIL) 1. Aero 07.15 08.35 2. Arik 07.15 08.35 3. Arik 09.00 10.20 4. Dana 09.27 10.40 5. Aero 10.50 12.30 6. Arik 11.40 13.00 7. Air Nigeria 12.00 13.10 8. IRS 13.30 15.00 9. Arik 14.00 15.20 10. Dana 15.03 16.20 11. Air Nigeria 16.00 17.10 12. Arik 16.10 17.30 13. Aero 16.15 17.30 14. Arik 17.10 18.30 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

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

08.40 08.40 14.55 15.10 17.40

1.

2.

3.

4.

Arik Aero Arik Aero

LAGOS – WARRI 08.15 11.50 11.55 14.55

09.1 12.50 12.55 15.55

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

LAGOS – KANO Air Nigeria 07.10 IRS 08.00 Dana 08.10 Arik 12.20 IRS 14.00 IRS 18.15

08.50 09.45 09.40 14.00 15.45 19.55

LAGOS – OWERRI 07.20 14.00 16.30

08.30 15.10 17.40

LAGOS – UYO 10.35

11.35

1. Arik 2. Arik 3. Arik 1. Dana

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

08.00 18.00

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

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

13

14

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

Pg. 49

Musa bullish ahead Uche, Soriola in, Madagascar tie as Eagles arrive Pg. 16

Nation Friday, September 2, 2011

PAGE 15

•The team kills time while the plane refuels in Entebbe, Uganda

MADAGASCAR V NIGERIA

NFF to investigate travel revolt Pg. 16

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

16

49

NATION SPORT Gbagbeke misses event again

J

UST like he did at the Berlin edition two years ago, Stanley Gbagbeke failed to join the field for the men Long Jump event yesterday.

The Delta athlete has been nursing an ankle injury that made it impossible for him to compete here.

Zimbabwean Ngonidashe Makusha who is expected to take the gold in the event at the All Africa Games in Maputo, led the pack with a 8.11m.

German Sebastien Bayer jumped same 8.11m as Makusha. In the other group, America Dwight Phillips jumped 8.32 to brighten his hope of the Championship gold here.

Another surprising result from the long jump pit is the inability of former South African champion Godfrey Mokoena to make it to the final.

NATION SPORT

Musa bullish ahead Madagascar tie V

VV-VENLO winger, Ahmed Musa is confident that the Nigerian men’s national team will defeat Madagascar on Sunday in Antananarivo.

Nigeria’s Super Eagles go up against their Madagascar counterparts in a must-win 2012 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying game.

And Musa told SuperSport.com that he believes that the Super Eagles will pick their first maximum points on the road.

The former Juth and Kano Pillars’ man is unperturbed by reports of the likelihood that the Nigerian team will play on a poor pitch against Madagascar.

“I’m confident that we will win this game. We, the players, know that this

is a game we must win because we want to play in the Nations Cup. But it will not be easy.

“The bad pitch won’t be an excuse for us. We have heard that the pitch is bad but I believe this team is very good and we can beat anybody, anywhere. And we also have a very good coach, so by God’s grace we will win this one,” said Musa.

Asked if he is worried that the Super Eagles currently trail their Guinean counterparts in the Africa Cup of Nations qualification, Musa doused such fear.

“I’m not worried. We just need to concentrate on our game against Madagascar and win it. Then we can worry about Guinea later,” he said.

•Gbagbeke

NFF to investigate travel revolt T

HE Super Eagles arrived in Anttannarivo at 10.30 am local time and quickly cleared immigration before settling into their Carlton Hotel lodge They have been well received and are looking to rest till evening when they expect to embark on their first training sessions.

Meanwhile, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) will open an inquest into the disagreement that erupted in the Super Eagles’ camp over travel plans to Antananarivo, Madagascar.

Vincent Enyeama, John Mikel Obi and Victor Anichebe have been fingered as players that spearheaded a call for change in the team’s itinerary ahead of Sunday’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifying against Madagascar.

Trouble started on Wednesday night at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel when the trio refused to join their teammates for a ride in the team’s bus to the Nnamdi Azikiwe International

Airport in Abuja.

The three players later arrived at the airport on their own and travelled with the team to Antananarivo late on Wednesday.

A top official has told SuperSport.com that the football federation will wade into the matter after the game against Madagascar.

“Definitely the matter will be looked into by the federation. I am sure that will happen next week or after the game against Madagascar.

We want the players to focus on the game because it is a must-win.

“We will talk to everyone involved in the matter so that we can get to the root of the whole matter. There are different versions we are hearing but those involved will explain to us what really happened,” the NFF official said.

Anichebe, Enyeama and Mikel had expressed reservation with the travel plans of the Super Eagles.

The players were said to have

made demands ranging from travelling directly to Antananarivo without a stop-over as well as shifting the departure to Friday.

Uche, Soriola in, as Eagles arrive N

IGERIA’s squad for the 2012 African Nations Cup quialifier arrived in Antananarivo on Thursday morning, after a nine-hour trip from Abuja.

They were met soon on arrival by the duo of Gege Soriola and Ike Uche.

Skipper Joseph Yobo is expected to arive later in the day.

Soriola was already at the hotel when the team came in, while Uche landed soon after the squad had left the airport.

The Super Eagles left Nigeria on a

Milo b ball: GSS Zing coach dreams big

By Innocent Amomoh the second leg in Cameroon will be a different ball game.”

On if he intends retiring after the Olympics, Mbachu said: “I cannot say categorically that I am going to retire from international football. I feel I still have something to offer, but when the time comes, we will all be aware.”

Coming from a not-tooimpressive performance at the World Cup in Germany in July, the Falcons seek to book the ticket for the women football event of the Olympics in London next year.

Solomon Okoronkwo, Dele Aiyenugba, Emmanuel Emenike, Nosa Igiebor, Brown Ideye, Chigozie Agbim, Brown Ideye, Chibuzor Okonkwo, Yusuf Ayila, Elderson Echiejile, Vincent Enyeama, Efe Ambrose, Gege Soriola, Ike Uche.

13TH IAAF WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS

Amata equals national record again, qualifies for final Zheng (China), Elena Slesarenko and Svetlana Radzivil both of Russia.

In Group ‘A’, Russian Anna Chicherova with a 2.07 leading to the Championship lead the pack that include her compatriot Svetlana Shkolina, Emma Green Trgaro of Sweden, Deirdre Ryan of Ireland and Estonian Anna Iljustsenko.

The final of the women high jump event is slated for Saturday after here in Daegu and Amata has promised not to let Nigeria down.

“I want Nigerians to pray for me. I just hope I can make my target of jumping 2m here at the Championships,’’ observed Amata as she was going through her session with the Nigerian Medics at the Championships here.

Amata set the national record in 2008 during the Mobil Championship in Abuja. She won gold at the 2007 All Africa Games in Algiers, Algeria.

The mother of one who in July reclaimed the national high jump title she lost without a fight last year due to procreation has had a wonderful season leading to Daegu, finishing twice as second behind world champion, Vlasic in Europe.

•Amata

Sand Eagles must start well –Olawale

T

HE coach of Government Secondary School, Zing in Taraba State, David Udouji is very confident that his team would do well when the jump ball is taken for the final play offs in the Nestle Milo Secondary basketball Championship.

The competition is slated to hold from September 13 to 17 at the Sports Hall of the National Stadium, Lagos.

Udouji told our correspondent that the smooth run and the level of tactical discipline his players displayed through the qualifying stages have given him such confidence.

He said, “We may be quite new at the national level but cannot take anything away from my team. These girls have shown remarkable discipline on and off the court such that you get utmost assurance of what they can achieve under any situation.

We are very new to the scene but we are going to surprise a lot of people.

No team can claim the right to the trophy even if they have been to the Lagos final since the competition began. The trophy is not beyond us.”

GSS Zing emerged as the winners of the Savannah Conference when the zonal playoff was held in Kano in June.

The ladies who won the Taraba qualifiers swept aside six other schools to win in Kano.

“Nobody gave us a chance in Kano because we were like rookies but see how the ladies got with sheer determination. It is the game of basketball we played in Kano and the same we are going to do in Lagos. I know Lagos will be a gathering of champions but we are also champions,” he said.

GSS Zing will compete against five other schools when the competition starts in Lagos.

PLAYERS IN CAMP John Mikel Obi, Victor Anichebe, Ahmed Musa, Fengor Ogude, Dele Adeleye, Joel Obi, Peter Utaka, Chinedu Obasi, Obinna Nsofor,

F

Falcons will qualify, Mbachu assures

S

Siasia and will train on Friday.

OR the third time this year, Doreen Amata yesterday equaled her national record of 1.95m to qualify for the finals of the women high jump at the on-going 13th IAAF World Championships in Daegu, Korea.

Competing in Group ‘B’ of the event, the All Africa Games defending champion jumped the 1.95 set as qualification for the final slated for Saturday here at the Daegu Stadium.

Before making the mark, Amata had almost flunked the lower 1.92. She had two failed jumps before moving ahead to the 1.95 which she scaled at the second attempt.

“I am grateful to God to have been able to make it to the final here. I knew from onset that I will be in final because I have competed against most of those we were in the same group,” stressed the Delta born jumper who similarly jumped the 1.95m at the 33rd Eberstadt High Jump meet, a European Athletics Outdoor permit event in Germany late July.

The six others that qualified with Amata from her group B include defending champion, Croatia Blanka Vlasic, Antonitta di Martino (Italy), American Bridget Barrett, Xingheng

LONDON 2012 OLYMPICS UPER FALCONS darting forward, Stella Mbachu has assured that the women senior national team will qualify ahead of the Lioness of Cameroon for the London 2012 Olympics.

The Falcons had managed a 2-1 win over the Cameroonians in the first leg played at the national Stadium Abuja, and as it is now, they are faced with the herculean task of winning convincingly away from home when the second leg gets underway.

In a chat with NationSport, the Rivers Angel forward said: “That is football.

We intended winning with a very wide margin in Abuja, but it did not turn out that way. But I am confident that

chartered Air Nigeria Embraer 195 aircraft, reserved exclusively for the team, with NFF Technical Committee member Christopher Green as the only non squad member—player or technical official—accompanying the team.

The journey included a one and half hour refuelling layover at Congo Brazzaville.

Safely ensconced in the four-star Carlton Hotel, the players have been given the day off by coach Samson

I

SIAKA OLAWALE has assured that Nigeria’s Super Sand Eagles will kick off their FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup appearance in Italy on a high.

The Super Sand Eagles will face their Russian opponents in the first game of Group C on Friday at the Stadio del Mare in Marina di Ravenna.

“We are ready for our game against Russia,” said Olawale, “and we know that this will be a tough game. But we

•Ahmed Musa

AHEAD FINAL QUALIFICATION ROUND

Dream Team V to resume camp in Nov •Targets FIFA free day for friendly

P

REPARATORY to the final round of qualification for the Olympic Games in Africa, the national U23 team, other wise referred to as the Dream Team V has programmed to resume camping in the last week in November.

NationSpoprt gathered that though the technical crew has informed the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), on their plans to have the team camped in Portugal preparatory for the tournament, they resolved on the need to resume camping in earnest.

Further information revealed that the team targets the next FIFA free day in October to prosecute an international friendly that will put the team in shape ahead of the championship.

“The plan is to play against one of

By Innocent Amomoh the national teams, I don’t the particular country now but I hope that will be confirmed as soon as the team resumes camp. The technical crew and the players are determined to clinch the Olympic ticket so all hands are on deck to achieve this purpose,” a source said.

Asked if the team will be beefed up for the task ahead after they were ousted from the All African Games (AAG), by neighbours Ghana in a 3-3 aggregate, edged out on an away goal advantage, the source said the current players may be retained as the introduction of new players can be suicidal.

“You know the competition is close by now, and any attempt to change the

players that have been used to each other will not make any sense. The players are professioners and the know what to do. I don’t think the coaches will make such decision,” the source said.

The final round qualification tournament, the maiden edition to be hosted by Egypt, will provide the best three teams out of the eight participants to represent Africa in for the London 2012 Olympics.

Starting from 26 November to 10 December this year, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has labeled the competition as Africa’s first Under23 Championships.

The other teams participating are Algeria, Gabon, Ivory Coast, Morocco, Senegal and South Africa.

The London Olympics will take place from 27 July to 12 August 2012.

have been in camp long enough for this World Cup and we won’t disappoint.”

Olawale, 27, is Nigeria’s most experienced beach soccer player and has taken part in all three previous appearances of his country at the FIFA World Cup in 2006, 2007 and 2009.

The Kwara United man is Nigeria’s all-time top scorer at the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup with nine goals.

Olawale, who is captain of the Super Sand Eagles, is one of 12 players named by head coach, Adamu Audu Ejor.

Others are Bartholomew Ibenegbu, Ogbonnaya Okemmiri, Abdullahi Isa, Shehu Maijama’a, Nelson Onyekachi Nwosu, Victor Tale, Emmanuel Kyande, Musa Najare, James Okwuosa, Olalekan Oladepo and Azeez Abu. Apart from Russian in Group C, Nigeria will also face Venezuela and Tahiti in their other preliminary games.

All of Nigeria’s preliminary matches will be live on SuperSport.

•Olawale

Grand ceremony to herald 2011 Bankers Games •Ike Uche

A

highlight of the opening ceremonies of the 2011 Nigeria Bankers Games will be the induction of the new members of the Corporate Nigeria Hall of Fame on September 4 at the University of Lagos Sports Complex. The induction ceremony will follow on the heels of other exciting programs already laid out for the day by the games’ organizers, MediaVision Limited.

The Nigeria Bankers Games, acclaimed as the biggest sporting event in Corporate Nigeria pursues a twin objectives of creating a platform for co-employees in and across the industry to network and bond while promoting healthy living for the participants.

Jimmy Sogbesan, the Group Head, Events & Special Projects of MediaVision has disclosed that plans have been concluded to stage a grand opening ceremony of the 11th anniversary of the Nigeria Bankers Games to surpass the glamour of the 10th anniversary. He said, “This year’s grand opening of the Nigeria Bankers Games will be bookmarked by an Opening Ceremony on Sunday, September 4th 2011 at the Main Bowl of the University of Lagos Sports

Complex. We keep improving the mechanics of the games each year and the 11th edition will no doubt offer greater thrills than what was witnessed last year”.

The opening match of the day will be between Champions, UBA and Standard Chartered Bank with the second match of the day coming up between Diamond Bank and Fidelity Bank. The two opening matches will be preceded by the ceremonial match past of all the participating teams and followed by the induction of newly crowned members of the Corporate Hall of Fame.

On the excitement already generated by this year’s tournament, Sogbesan said: “that we have witnessed a challenging year in the global financial industry has sustained the imperatives of the tournament as a platform for bankers to relax and compete on a friendlier basis”.

The 2011 Bankers Games will end on October 23 with matches holding every weekend for eight weeks. New events introduced this year are Chess and Scrabble that will not join football, athletics and table tennis on the stable. Admission into the venue is free.

17

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

POLITICS THE NATION

E-mail:- politics@thenationonlineng.net

The Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) governorship candidate in Benue State during the April elections, Prof. Steve Ugbah, has not lost hope in his bid to govern the state. He affirmed it during a chat with reporters in Port-Harccourt, Rivers State where he vowed to pursue his case to a logical conclusion. BISI OLANIYI was there.

‘Suswam hostile to opposition in Benue’

O

NE of the grounds of your petition was dismissed by the tribunal. What further step have you taken?

You are referring to ground three of our petition, which has to do with providing papers to qualify one to stand for election. The background to that ground is that all candidates are required by law to submit papers to show their eligibility to contest elections. We are contending that the incumbent, Governor Gabriel Suswam, the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) candidate did not submit the papers that would be screened and certified as complying with provisions of the Electoral Law. He has contended that he was not required to submit any paper and therefore, did not submit the papers. INEC did not also make the papers available to enable us scrutinise and be sure that he was indeed qualified to stand for election.

What is your reaction to that?

We disagree with the tribunal’s ruling and we will appeal that decision. We are confident that we will laugh at last. In any case, ground three of our application was a very small aspect of our own case at the tribunal. So, whether they dismissed that ground of our petition or not will not prevent us from going ahead with our substantive case.

We want to be given a chance to present our case of fraudulent electoral acts by Dr. Suswam and the PDP in Benue State, which caused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to declare them winners of the election, which we firmly believe that we won based on the lawfully cast votes. We are not discouraged by the ruling. We are not desperate and we are not deterred in any way.

Are you satisfied with the pace of the tribunal?

We are not satisfied with the pace of the tribunal because we know that the PDP and Governor Suswam’s legal team are engaged in delay tactics, hoping to

continue challenging our petition on technical grounds. The tribunal, however, had said it did not wish to determine the case on technical grounds. However, we know that governor Suswam and his legal team do not have that defence. All they are doing is trying to buy time, so that once the 180-days time elapses, they would then file another motion saying that time is up and therefore our petition should be dismissed. We are hoping that the tribunal will take note of that and not yield to those delay tactics.

You once raised concern about threats to your life, are you safer now?

I am never safe in Benue state. I do not take threats lightly and we are doing everything possible to protect me and people who are loyal to us. The threats are always there, because I am seen as a threat to the continuation of a failed administration in Benue. I cannot tell you that I am safer now, than I was when I first visited Port Harcourt. We are doing everything possible to keep me alive because if I am dead, our case is dead.

You must have been under intense pressure to give up your mandate…

I have not personally been approached to surrender the mandate. I do not think that the governor himself will have the guts to approach me directly and ask me to surrender the mandate.

But people close to me have been approached. They have sent all kinds of emissaries. I have heard the rumour that the traditional institution is also involved in trying to get to me. Some elders have been sent to people close to me, so they can talk to me to give up the case, but all those are just useless efforts because there is no amount of pressure that would cause me to succumb or to negotiate the mandate away.

We want to correct a gross injustice that has been done to the

O

• Mimiko

• Ugbah

‘Some elders have been sent to people close to me, so they can talk to me to give up the case, but all those are just useless efforts because there is no amount of pressure that would cause me to succumb or to negotiate the mandate away. We want to correct a gross injustice that has been done to the people of Benue state’ people of Benue state.

Some of your sympathisers were said to have been victimised, what is the situation now?

The situation still continues.

Unfortunately, that is the kind of government we have in place in Benue state, where there is rampant intimidation of people who are suspected to be sympathetic to the cause of the ACN in the

state. It is rather unfortunate that people’s properties have been seized. A graphic case is the invasion of the Makurdi modern market by the present administration, demolishing stores and stalls of those who were suspected to have voted or being sympathetic to the ACN. It is also unfortunate that a lot of traditional rulers were victimised,

their salaries withheld and some civil servants sacked. If they were political appointees, that may be understandable, but for career civil servants, I do not think that is right. The ACN government will not do that to a career civil servant. Whether he supports us or not, as long as you are doing your job and you are professionally competent, why should we do that to you, simply because you support another political party? We need to bring in a new regime. There should be a paradigm shift.

Governor Suswam recently said he was not going to pay the N18,000 minimum wage, even if the workers went on strike for a whole year…

What a pity that an administration that has wasted so much money on frivolities, would now toy with the people, who are actually the engine of economic activities in the state. Benue state is a civil servant state and for the governor to make that kind of reckless statement, given how much money he spent on the election, which is not his own personal money and none of us can tell what form of fund raising activities generated that kind of money to support his political activity. I will say it was a reckless and irresponsible statement, coming from a chief executive. He should have given us another reason he would not pay the new minimum wage and maybe we would have been sympathetic.

The Benue State Government can afford to pay the N18,000 minimum wage, if it cuts down on non-essential expenses.

What message do you have for your teeming supporters?

They must remain steadfast. In our normal political language in the state, we say: “No shaking.”

Nothing has spoilt yet. We are going through a very slow process laden with technicalities. The PDP and the incumbent governor do not have a case. We have a case.

They cannot respond to our own charges and therefore, the only thing they are doing is trying to knock our petition off by technicalities and we are confronting them head-on. There is actually no need for worry. We are confident that at the end of the day, with all the dribbling they are doing, we will prevail. They should continue to support us and pray for us.

Mimiko inaugurates electoral commission

NDO State Governor Olusegun Mimiko yesterday swore in the Ondo State Independent Electoral Commission (ODIEC). It comprises eight members.

The committee which is expected to conduct election into the 18 local councils in the state is headed by a university don, Dr. Gbenga Ige. They have 150 days to prepare for the poll.

Speaking at the inauguration in Akure, the state capital, Mimiko charged the members to ensure fair, credible and transparent elections into the chairmanship and councillorship positions in the local government councils after all legal issues would have been resolved.

Mimiko also told them: “You will all recall that before the inception of this administration in February 2009, a long legal battle was fought to reclaim our stolen mandate. Therefore,

From Damisi Ojo, Akure

for an administration that came into power through the instrumentality of the law, we find it absolutely necessary not only to ensure regard for, but also, sustain the rule of law.”

Apparently likening Ige, the ODIEC boss and immediate past ASUU Chairman, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, to INEC Chairman, Prof Attahiru Jega, the governor said: “We believe that your tenure will pay us like that of the former ASUU National President. We went to pick somebody from the academia, somebody who has the background of activism and who we all don’t expect to compromise or do anything other than ensure fairness.

“Your manifest non-partisanship in any of the existing political parties or interest groups, will engender peo-

THE TEAM • Dr Gbenga Ige - Chairman • Chief Bisi Ogundipe • Mrs Joke Adebusoye • Mrs Lola Adewumi • Comrade Bayo Williams.

• Mr Amos Fadope • Mr Ayo Ajayi • Mr. Adeoye Omolekulo ple’s trust and confidence in the affairs of the Commission and particularly, in the conduct of free and fair local government elections. Unlike in 2007 when we witnessed all manners of electoral malady, the 2011 election was a major improvement over the past. A typical evidence of this improvement was that after the 2007

elections, about 68 election petitions were filed in the court, but in 2011, only 8 petitions were filed which was a testimony to the credibility of the election.”

While reiterating his administration’s commitment to foisting an era of credible polls on the state political landscape, Governor Mimiko declared that “on the part of the Labour Party government, it bears repeating here that we will not seek for any undue advantage over and above any party or individual, but that we shall only give the necessary moral and financial support in accordance with the Constitution”.

Responding on behalf of other members, Ige pledged that with the sincerity and support of the political class, the Commission would entrench a culture of free, fair and credible elections in Ondo State.

18

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

POLITICS Honourable Kola Olabiyi, an Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) lawmaker, represents Iseyin/Kajola/Itesiwaju Federal Constituency of Oyo State in the House of Representatives. He spoke with some journalists on his agenda at the House. BODE DUROJAIYE was there.

PDP chieftain calls for credible congresses

By Musa Odoshimokhe

Rep decries marginalisation F of Oke-Ogun Ikere-Gorge Dam

will respectively manage revenue from the federation account, allocations to all the 36 states including the FCT, and the revenues of the federation. Another Accountant-General will squarely oversee only 53 percent of allocation accruing to the Federal Government from the federation Account. This is the best way to go about it, instead of the present arrangement whereby revenue sharing from federation account is lopsided. We won’t relent because we know if the present arrangement is redressed, it will give us clearer pictures of parameters being used in sharing revenue among States and Local Governments, in order to check marginalization and other forms of abuses.

I

N 1982, former President Shehu Shagari’s administra tion awarded contract for the construction of Ikere-Gorge dam at Iseyin. Today, the multi-billion-naira project is yet to be completed. At present, the execution of the project was about 85 per cent. Besides the fact that this giant dam can serve all the local governments in Oke-Ogun area in terms of water supply and irrigation, it is also a veritable means of generating employment for thousands of jobless youths. Consequently, I have resolved, after due consultations with Oke-Ogun elders, to use legislative intervention to complete the abandoned project and put it into use for the benefit of all Oke-Ogun residents. Part of the strategies is to ensure that the project is incorporated into the annual budget of the Oshun/Ogun River Basin Development Authority.

Alleged marginalisation of Oke-Ogun It is a fact that the area, noted as the food basket of the state, is being grossly marginalised in terms of infrastructure and institutions of higher learning.

The federal highway linking Iseyin to Ijio, which leads to the Benin Republic, is a deathtrap.

Also, people’s costs of living there is profibitively high due to the undulating terrain of the road. For instance, a bottle of soft drinks goes for as high as N100 or N120, each other items like bread costs about N150; sachet water is N20 per one. Findings revealed that those who bring the items from Ibadan or other towns complain of high cost of maintaining their vehicles whenever they bring their goods to the areas.

Most public primary and secondary schools are not conducive for learning. We have no higher institutions of learning, except the satellite campus of the

NJC and Justice Salami • Olabiyi

Ibadan Polytechnic, situated at Saki. Go round the township roads in Oke-Ogun area, you will sympathise with us for this gross marginalisation. Hence, we are persistently calling for the creation of Oke-Ogun State in order to bring governance closer to the people. Federal allocations given to the Local Governments are slashed in Ibadan, the state capital, before they get to the councils. So, what meaningful development do you expect from such councils?

Office of the Accountant–General of the Federation We are of the opinion that if the office is split into two, it will not only enhance thorough financial accountability, but prevent fraud and corruption in financial dealings. There should be two Accountants– General for the country who

What President Jonathan has done is unconstitutional and contrary to section 292 of the constitution, which stipulates how the Chef Justice of Nigeria (CJN), President Court of Appeal, and others are to be appointed. Their appointments must be based on approval by two-thirds majority of the Senate.

The excuse by the president that he acted in order not to create vacuum is untenable. There can’t be a vacuum because there is no vacancy until the Senate decides otherwise or recommends.

The case was still in court on the issue before the NJC took its hasty decision. Why the hurry?

Why the approval of Mr. President so soon, on Sunday?

Morally speaking, Justice Salami is head of the Election Petition Tribunal that is handling the petition filed by the Presidential candidate of the Congress for Political Change (CPC), Gen Muhammadu Buhari, against the election of President Jonathan as President. What impression is President Jonathan creating? It is indeed very unfortunate that Mr. President is not a listening leader.

ORMER Deputy Speaker of the Anambra State House of Assembly, Hon. Afam Obi has said that the People Democratic Party (PDP) will bounce back to reckoning if with national leaders organise acceptable congresses in all the wards and local government areas in the state.

Obi who spoke to The Nation in Lagos said that it was time the national body of the party got involved because it could no longer afford to allow victory go the other way in the area.

He said: “Anambra State is a core PDP state any day, but I must say the party has manufactured and grown for itself problems with the party administration. These have denied the party cohesion and much needed synergy to produce proper leadership that could translate into election winning machine and government for the state.”

The former Deputy Speaker explained that those that had won elections in the state did so with the active connivance of PDP members, noting that the problem in PDP was instrumental to the success recorded by other parties in the state.

Obi blamed it on dynamics of power that made some to cross carpet. He maintained that those who moved were dissatisfied with the party administration in the state.

He said: “The dynamics that created PDP problems made Dr Chris Ngige to move to ACN, Prof. Dora Akunyili until a few months to the elections was a Minister in the PDP government, she resigned the position to contest under APGA, Chief Andy Uba who moved on to labour was a strong PDP man.”

The former lawmaker stressed that he came at a critical moment when Anambra needed to surmount the challenges of governance which fell into the hands of All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) but need the support of all irrespective of party affiliation.

Obi said: “In Anambra it was like there was no sign of good governance in the four years of Dr Chinwoke Mbadinuju which was seen as unproductive.

He was succeeded by a very good friend, Dr Chris Ngige, who equally was confronted with the dynamics of power.

“The dynamics that produced Ngige made the state very turbulent as he did not settle in properly to do the business of governance. So, by this calculation, we already had seven years that one could not say were fruitful”.

“While we were in this madness, the rest of the states and the country at large were moving on. So when we came in 2007, while the rest of the states were walking we needed to be running, galloping and leaping to be able to cover the lost ground”.

He stated that there must be genuine harmonisation of the party so that it could consolidate on it large follower-ship to get the government back to PDP. “So, the first step is to hold credible, transparent and honest congresses from the wards and local government. It could be seen that everybody wants to be in control but nobody want to assume less position. So when the time to put party structures in place came everybody want to be in control.

If the presidency and the national office appoint a caretaker committee, dissolve every existing claim and make aggrieved parties to understand the importance of the overall interest than narrow interest. The committee should move from ward to ward and not by proxy to conduct free, fair and transparent congresses Anambra PDP will bounce back.

He said during the 2010 elections over 50 governorship aspirants emerged from which Prof Charles Soludo was chosen as the candidate but because of the division which it orchestrated APGA took advantage • Obi of it to win the election.

‘Nasarawa tribunal too slow’ From Johnny Danjuma, Lafia

T

• Speaker of Ogun State Children Parliament, Hon. Jaiyeola Oluwaseun; administering the Oath of Office on other children parliamentarians at the sitting of the third set of Ogun Children Parliamentarians at the Valley View Auditorium, Abeokuta... recently.

HE People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Nasarawa State has expressed concern over what it calls “snail speed” in the counting of ballot papers at the Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Lafia.

Former Governor of the State, Alhaji Aliyu Akwe Doma is challenging some of the results declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in favour of Governor Umaru Tanko Almakura who was declared winner during the gubernatorial elections in April.

INEC is re-counting the ballot papers following the subpoena it got from the Nasarawa State Elections Petitions Tribunal to produce and also re-count the ballot papers that were used during the elections in the 1,495 polling units of Nasarawa State.

The PDP legal Adviser in the state, Hassan Yakubu, however, said that despite the ongoing re-counting, the party is not happy with the slowness with which the counting is being done.

Explaining that time is essential in such matters, he however pointed out: “Nevertheless, we are optimistic, even if it is a deliberate tactic at thwarting our efforts, we will surely carry the day.”

He maintained that the party was challenging the results in 52 of the polling units in Lafia LGA and 39 of the polling units in Keffi LGA at the tribunal.

He however said that the PDP is particularly concerned with the results of some of the nine LGAs in the state including Keffi, Obi, Keana, Wamba, Lafia and Akwanga.

Yakubu also said that when the total number of votes cast during the April governorship election in Nasarawa State is ascertained after the exercise, then the party would know how to focus its argument.

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

19

EDITORIAL/OPINION Comments

EDITORIAL FROM OTHER LAND

The new resentment of the poor

Flood of tears •What is required now is a holistic approach to deal with the menace

I

T is sad and regrettable that the ancient city of Ibadan had to count in scores – deaths from the unusually heavy downpour accompanied by loud thunderstorms and violent winds said to have lasted for more than eight hours on August 26.

Sad that the city of rustic architecture and chaotic planning would get more than it bargained for from a tragedy foretold; and regrettable because the tragedy could have been minimised.

Apart from the dead – some estimates put the figure at over 100, and there are scores still missing –not to talk of thousands of citizens rendered homeless. Nearly a week after, the nation hasn’t even begun to take stock of the destruction wreaked on the city infrastructure such as roads, bridges, electric poles swept away by the angry torrents of the storm-water which broke free from the channels.

Although an act of nature, if it seems any instructive – it is that this time, we had enough of early warning signs as well as the benefit of timely alert on which some matching responses could have been developed.

First was last year’s excessive rains which wreaked havoc in parts of Ogun and Lagos states. Second, there were timely warnings from the meteorological department, which – not once or even twice – alerted on the imminence of an unusually heavy rainfall this year.

Didn’t the department warn on the need to brace up to the possible consequences?

The citizens, with the state government, particularly the immediate past administration – could have done more to avert the disaster. There were ample times for the citizens to free up the drains, to ensure that run-offs from rains are confined to designated channels.

And of course the government could have acted its part by mobilising the people, providing effective wastemanagement infrastructure, including maintaining adequate channels to gather storm water to minimise the impact of the flooding.

The latest disaster however needs to be seen in the context of the strings of disasters since the infamous Ogunpa flood disaster which ravaged the state capital in 1980, and which first brought the challenge of flooding in the state capital into global attention. It is unfortunate that successive administrations – three decades plus after – have not been able to tackle in any meaningful way, the problem of flooding in the city, let alone evolving a drainage masterplan long after the fanfare of the Ogunpa channelisation project, on which billions of taxpayers’ money has been sunk. No wonder the state capital continues to witness incessant incidents of flooding, occasioning loss of lives.

For the three-month old Abiola Ajimobi administration, it is time to

address the neglect of the past by taking the issue to the drawing board. This time around, half measures would not do. The challenge needs not only new thinking, but a holistic approach. For sure, climate change is real – the state government must respond proactively to the issue of global warming and the challenge posed by rising sea levels. As to the question of its urgency, this seems to have been settled last weekend. Related also is the matter of waste management which deserves to be put on the front burner. The summary of course is that Ibadan needs a more coordinated approach to managing its wastes as well as a drainage master-plan befitting a modern city.

By tackling both – the state would have confronted the menace of filth and flood – both of which threaten to choke it.

‘For the three-month old Abiola Ajimobi administration, it is time to address the neglect of the past by taking the issue to the drawing board. This time around, half measures would not do. The challenge needs not only new thinking, but a holistic approach’

Way to go •Aba traders get in the vanguard of NAFDAC’s fake drug war

I

T sounds too good to be true, but there is a strong corroboration. The strong is that the fake drug dealers in the sprawling Ariaria Market in the ancient commercial city of Aba, Abia State, are now leading the hunt to catch their members who insist on trading in harmful and killer patent medicines.

Recently, members of the Ariaria International Market Patent and Proprietary Medicine Dealers Association were reported to have delivered three bus-loads of expired and fake drugs to the National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control) NAFDAC).

According to the traders, they had been at work in the past 14 months mopping up the market of these unwholesome drugs. They had chosen to work with NAFDAC and sanitise their market using a task force they set up. By their action, they have elected to seize the initiative to rid the market not only of the bad drugs, but also the dealers who would not turn a new leaf.

Considering that Ariaria, along with Central Market, Kano and Head Bridge Market, Onitsha, rank among the centres of infamy in the production and distribution of killer drugs, this is indeed a notable stride in the drugs war worthy of commendation. The battle to save Nigerians from unscrupulous manufacturers, importers and dealers

of fake and substandard drugs has been a long drawn and difficult one such that sometimes, it is difficult to know whether progress is being made.

Until Professor Dora Akunyili, former director-general of NAFDAC headed the commission and opened the eyes of Nigerians, 70 percent of the over-the-counter (OTC) drugs consumed in Nigeria, it seemed, must have been worthless substances that only had the effect of a placebo on patients. We had cases in which ordinary chalk was moulded and packaged as pain reliever. We have heard stories of various types of consumable products, including toothpaste, palm oil and even kerosine that were faked and sold to unsuspecting consumers with disastrous effects on the end-users.

NAFDAC has through the years adopted varied methods in tackling the menace. There has been registration, licensing, closure of markets, vetting of products, especially imported, and locally manufactured ones, seizure and public burning. There were also extensive consultations with manufacturers and missions in order to stem the tide of harmful consumable food and drugs.

However, persuasion and partnering seems to have worked best as can be seen in the Aba traders’ example.

NAFDAC needs to get the various stakeholders, especially

manufacturers, importers, distributors and retailers to be part of the campaign. Token incentives could be availed the whistle blowers and converts. Since most of the fake drugs come from India, China, Indonesia and Southeast Asia, there is need to engage governments of these countries through both direct and media campaigns.

Like all other trade groups, government must pay a little more attention to the food and pharmaceutical group via regular dialogue and provision of conducive operating environment.

Fake and harmful drugs and consumables are all the more dangerous in a vicarious way – nobody can tell who the victim may be.

‘However, persuasion and partnering seems to have worked best as can be seen in the Aba traders’ example.

NAFDAC needs to get the various stakeholders, especially manufacturers, importers, distributors and retailers to be part of the campaign. Token incentives could be availed the whistle blowers and converts’

I

N a decade of frenzied tax-cutting for the rich, the Republican Party just happened to lower tax rates for the poor, as well. Now several of the party’s most prominent presidential candidates and lawmakers want to correct that oversight and raise taxes on the poor and the working class, while protecting the rich, of course.

These Republican leaders, who think nothing of widening tax loopholes for corporations and multimillion-dollar estates, are offended by the idea that people making less than $40,000 might benefit from the progressive tax code. They are infuriated by the earned income tax credit (the pride of Ronald Reagan), which has become the biggest and most effective antipoverty program by giving working families thousands of dollars a year in tax refunds. They scoff at continuing President Obama’s payroll tax cut, which is tilted toward low- and middle-income workers and expires in December.

Until fairly recently, Republicans, at least, have been fairly consistent in their position that tax cuts should benefit everyone. Though the Bush tax cuts were primarily for the rich, they did lower rates for almost all taxpayers, providing a veneer of egalitarianism. Then the recession pushed down incomes severely, many below the minimum income tax level, and the stimulus act lowered that level further with new tax cuts. The number of families not paying income tax has risen from about 30 percent before the recession to about half, and, suddenly, Republicans have a new tool to stoke class resentment.

Representative Michele Bachmann noted recently that 47 percent of Americans do not pay federal income tax; all of them, she said, should pay something because they benefit from parks, roads and national security.

(Interesting that she acknowledged government has a purpose.) Gov. Rick Perry, in the announcement of his candidacy, said he was dismayed at the “injustice” that nearly half of Americans do not pay income tax. Jon Huntsman Jr., up to now the most reasonable in the Republican presidential field, said not enough Americans pay tax.

Representative Eric Cantor, the House majority leader, and several senators have made similar arguments, variations of the idea expressed earlier by Senator Dan Coats of Indiana that “everyone needs to have some skin in the game.”

This is factually wrong, economically wrong and morally wrong. First, the facts: a vast majority of Americans have skin in the tax game. Even if they earn too little to qualify for the income tax, they pay payroll taxes (which Republicans want to raise), gasoline excise taxes and state and local taxes. Only 14 percent of households pay neither income nor payroll taxes, according to the Tax Policy Centre at the Brookings Institution. The poorest fifth paid an average of 16.3 percent of income in taxes in 2010.

Economically, reducing the earned income tax credit and the child tax credit — which would be required if everyone paid income taxes — makes no sense at a time of high unemployment. The credits, which only go to working people, have always been a strong incentive to work, as even some conservative economists’ say, and have increased the labour force while reducing the welfare rolls.

The moral argument would have been obvious before this polarized year. Nearly 90 percent of the families that paid no income tax make less than $40,000, most much less. The real problem is that so many Americans are struggling on such a small income, not whether they pay taxes. The two tax credits lifted 7.2 million people out of poverty in 2009, including four million children.

At a time when high-income households are paying their lowest share of federal taxes in decades, when corporations frequently avoid paying any tax, it is clear who should bear a larger burden and who should not.

• The New York Times

TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief Victor Ifijeh • Editor Gbenga Omotoso •Chairman, Editorial Board Sam Omatseye

•Executive Director (Finance & Administration) Ade Odunewu

•General Editor Kunle Fagbemi

• Gen. Manager (Training and Development) Soji Omotunde

•Deputy Editor Lawal Ogienagbon

•Chief Internal Auditor Toke Folorunsho

•Managing Editor Northern Operation Yusuf Alli

•Senior Manager (sales) Akeem Shoge

•Managing Editor Waheed Odusile

•Advert Manager Robinson Osirike

•Deputy Editor (News) Adeniyi Adesina

•IT Manager Bolarinwa Meekness

•Group Political Editor Bolade Omonijo •Group Business Editor Ayodele Aminu •Abuja Bureau Chief Yomi Odunuga •Sport Editor Ade Ojeikere •Editorial Page Editor Sanya Oni

•Pre-Press Manager Chuks Bardi •Press Manager Udensi Chikaodi •Manager, Corporate Marketing Hameed Odejayi • Manager (Admin) Folake Adeoye

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

20

EDITORIAL/OPINION

S

IR: The Nigerian Judiciary is in the news again not because of the mostly gallant roles it has played recently in disputed elections but it is in the news, of course, for the wrong reasons. This third arm of government believed to be the last hope of the common man is swimming in murky waters.

It is in real troubled times and its foundation has become shaky.

With the way things are going between the National Judicial Council (NJC) in collaboration with out-gone Chief Justice of the Federation(CJN), Justice KatsinaAlu on one hand and Justice Ayo Isa Salami on the other hand, it is expected that not the last has been heard on this issue.

This writer has watched with sadness how the judiciary had turned itself into a bird of mockery.

For years on end, this arm proved to the world its worth. It showed to many how the law must be properly interpreted and what it means to adjudicate on matters of relevance. Their independence stood them out and with the likes of the late legal luminaries, Gani Fawehinmi and Frederick Rotimi Williams, active Professor Itsey Sagay, Rotimi Akeredolu, Femi Falana to mention a few, the law became a source of inspiration and judicial upliftment. The Nigerian judiciary further displayed its charismatic ingenuity when several high profile electoral cases were handled and mandates original stolen by do or die politicians given to their rightful winners. This of course endeared the judiciary to

Salami as sacrificial lamb? many, most especially, political gladiators from the opposition.

This perhaps was the genesis of Justice Salami’s travails because the ruling party at the centre is envious of landmark judgements coming from the Court of Appeal that he was president.

As the President of the Court of Appeal, the onus constitutionally fell on Salami’s table to appoint judges that would serve on the Election Petition Tribunals to hear

election petitions’ appeals that bedevilled the country since PDP do or die politics spearheaded by a former president became a model for governance. Several of the tribunals performed well while few others were compromised by the powers that be Justice Katsina-Alu, the outgoing Chief Justice of Nigeria allegedly asked Justice Salami to disband the panel handling the Sokoto state election petition appeal or to allegedly in the

alternative direct the panel to give judgement against the appellant/ petitioner in the matter. Justice Salami of course refused, as it was against his conscience and every sense of natural justice. This certainly triggered the event that led to Salami’s witch hunting by the powers that be in the Judiciary headed by the out-gone CJN. Because of this perceived affront, Justice Katsina-Alu quickly ‘elevated’ Justice Salami to the

The challenges before Okonjo-Iweala

S

IR: I read a columnist state that he did not envy Dr. Mrs. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala. His reason was that her job is not easy to achieve success in Nigeria, because the entire economic system is in shambles. Beyond that, I believe she has also been invited by the same people who are sabotaging the system in every vital respect. It has been leadership fraud and dictatorship all the way.

So, where will Okonjo-Iweala start from? I read her being quoted as saying she would ensure economic diversification

by improving the agricultural and other non-oil sectors to meet our national consumption and earnings from export. Let me advise her on where to start. She should start by helping us to properly manage what we already have: crude oil revenue that is grossly unaccounted-for as what is accounted-for is mostly misappropriated by our rulers, such that the nation’s infrastructure is criminally neglected and mass poverty is staring at us all.

What can Okonjo-Iweala do when the farmer cannot get to the market because the connecting bridge is broken? What can she do when

those who process agricultural products for preservation and industrial packaging have been knocked-down by costs of maintaining their engines? Yet, it is not that the nation is financially poor, but the rulers are mismanaging and misappropriating the resources.

The other time, Okonjo-Iweala was talking about the 85 percent of the federal budget as recurrent expenditure to be something unacceptable. And I said: “Fine talk!” Now that she has been offered the job as our Finance Minister, I expect to see real

Death traps on our roads

IR: WHEN will the government rehabilitate the bad roads in Nigeria, especially the high ways? Is it because those that matter do not travel by road?

Have we considered the number of people that die on Nigerian roads every day?

Maybe we should pay FRSC a visit to seek for and know the figures; then, we will know that we have more people dying on the roads than in the air.

Imagine the media noise about the helicopter that crashed in

S

EDITOR’S MAIL BAG SEND TYPEWRITTEN, DOUBLE SPACED AND SIGNED CONTRIBUTIONS, LETTERS AND REJOINDERS OF NOT MORE THAN 1000 WORDS TO THE EDITOR, THE NATION, 27B, FATAI ATERE ROAD, MATORI, LAGOS. E-mail: views@thenationonlineng.com

Supreme Court, the latter rejecting what he called ‘unholy’ promotion.

Promotions in this country, especially when one is a respected judge comes with a lot of fame and monetary accumulation, but for a man of Justice Salami’s status to have rejected this offer went to show how well he understood the gimmicks and political inter-play in the judiciary The effect of this judicial fascism would further deprive the ordinary people of justice when they face a similar brand of grand conspiracy like the ones being faced currently

by Justice Salami. A man’s ingenuity and true conscience should not be taken advantage of and it should not start with Justice Salami.

• Raheem Oluwafunminiyi creativitysell@gmail.com

Osun state just some weeks back!

However, people daily die on the roads without being reported.

This shows that nobody really cares about road accidents because rich men and their children hardly use the roads, they fly.

The state of our roads is deplorable. There is hardly a day you will open the papers and not see a picture of road accident victims or badly damaged vehicles. When will the government place premium on human life in Nigeria? When will the

citizens be seen as human beings and not just figures for census?

And as for drivers and riders, if the government does not put value on your lives, it is better to learn to drive carefully on the roads? Why do drivers/riders drive vehicles or ride bikes as if they have spare lives tucked in their trousers?

Now, we are approaching the "ember months" and anyone who has lost a loved one or witnessed an accident will understand better that lives are been wasted in

this country and dreams are been killed.

Passengers, please don’t just keep quite because the drivers or motorcycle riders are not paid fares to kill but to take passengers to their various destinations.

We can not keep silent and watch as the roads get worse because not every family can afford to travel by air.

God bless Nigeria! Amen.

• Toyin Adeyemo rakel122004@yahoo.com

actions in that regard.

Permit me to report to OkonjoIweala that our rulers and their wives are imperialistic. They spend money lavishly and have become emergency philanthropists at the expense of our national and infrastructural development. The President, Governors and local governments’ Chairmen make illegal budgets for their wives, something that was started under the military by the late Mrs. Maryam Babangida. Our plantain is getting rotten, and many Nigerians are saying it is getting ripe! That is the level of mass ignorance.

The import of my report is that Okonjo-Iweala should help ensure proper accountability, equity, and judicious use of revenues. I do not see how Okonjo-Iweala can otherwise make any meaningful impact. I am tempted to think that her economic diversification talk is as deceptive as any political talk in the Nigerian context. Nigeria’s problem is not how to get money, but how to manage it. The question is: can Okonjo-Iweala subdue the monster of corruption, economic mismanagement, and inequity that constitute Nigeria’s real albatross?

• Pius Oyeniran Abioje, Ph. D, University of Ilorin.

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011 16

21

EDITORIAL/OPINION

Celebrity trash, trashy journalism and everyone (1)

Reality Bites T

Olatunji Ololade

HERE is no idiocy without its incarnations; the celebrity culture amasses its mob even in Nigeria. Think hack writers, social windbags and a wholly infantile media audience. Perhaps you do not belong to these mindless lots; good for you. If you do, you will probably do better by acknowledging that you are an ordinary gourd for opportunistic wretches to drink from.

You could finally understand why hordes of easy preys, or audiences if you like, are infinitely captivated by characters fit only for display in a zoo.

Not every celebrity belongs to a zoo, some would argue – perhaps; but not a few superstars today, particularly in Nigeria, are astounding perfections of absurdities that even livestock must be appalled by.

Bet you’ve heard of the music icon that built for himself, a pseudo-republic and retreated from daily reality because he was too scared to become a real man in the real world. Bet you’ve heard of the lawmaker who repeatedly assaulted a guard because the latter, according to protocol, politely requested for his identification before granting him entrance into the nation’s law chamber.

Perhaps you remember music idol, Mr. Koko Superstar and his mansion

of Koko absurdities as well as the hip hop exponent who loves to soak himself in alcohol that he might summon enough courage to trash whichever night club he parties for the night. Remember the social bigwigs whose claim to fame subsists in their ability to bed the prettiest damsels and richest magnates in town even as they party very hard every weekend.

Not to forget the rogue bank chief who was sacked, prosecuted and issued a ridiculously mild sentence for stealing from the public and her bank.

Guess you remember the actress with a knack for gracing social events virtually naked, to the public’s consternation and the media’s admiration.

Just recently, some publicity-drunk actress and arguably one of Nigeria’s most popular performers allegedly berated Nigerian journalism as “crap” on a social networking site just because reporters got the news of the demise of one of her senior colleagues right.

Predictably, she became the butt of virulent invectives and counterinvectives by maddened journalists and her fans.

To the journalists, it didn’t matter that she had twittered some gospel truth. All that mattered was that she had bitten the fingers that made her.

‘You could finally understand why hordes of easy preys, or audiences if you like, are infinitely captivated by characters fit only for display in a zoo.

Not every celebrity belongs to a zoo, some would argue – perhaps; but not a few superstars today, particularly in Nigeria, are astounding perfections of absurdities that even livestock must be appalled by.

“Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe, to assure the survival and the success of liberty”. -John Fitzgerald Kennedy, 35th President of the United States 1961.

F

ELLOW Nigerians, barely 10 hours after the United Nations house in Abuja was attacked, I speak to you all with a heavy heart and a deep sense of responsibility. Our country has been attacked. We have just witnessed yet another wicked act of killing and maiming of innocent citizens by those who prefer violence to dialogue and tolerance. On a day when all Nigerians went about their daily commitments in peace and with vigour, the perpetrators of this cowardly act bombed the United Nations Building. They threw our country into mourning and sought to place us on the map of terrorist nations.

I deeply regret the loss of lives and extend my heartfelt sympathy and that of all Nigerians to the families of the victims of the recent bombing. I share in your sorrow and pain. The innocent blood that was shed will serve as tonic to achieve greater security of lives. The blood of these ones this moment and henceforth challenges us to do more to secure individual freedoms and ensure national security.

This attack on the UN House must be considered as an attack on our fatherland. An attack on the very values of peace, tolerance, diversity and respect that we all hold dear. Without any shadow of doubt, I say that the perpetrators of this dastardly act do not share these values.

They hold in contempt the lives of innocent citizens and consider Nigeria as an object they could own. But Nigeria is greater than any group, organization, association, sect or movement. Our people are a strong, resilient and reasonable people, ready at a moment’s notice to rise up in defence of the freedom that our heroes’ past labored for. We did not survive a civil war to keep this country united and marching forward to now come and surrender it to a group bent on the path of violence and ruination.

Let it be told at home at abroad, that our people are worth defending and our country is worth dying for.

Like the American President, J.F Kennedy said, “Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe, to assure the survival and the success of liberty”. I am ready to work with all peace loving men and women to defend Nigeria and the liberties we have fought so hard to gain.

To her fans, it didn’t matter that she goofed; what mattered was that Nigerian journalists are visiting their “crappy journalism” on their favourite superstar.

Of course, her die-hard fans have written in her defense claiming that someone else had placed the infuriating diatribe on her comment thread. Their favourite actress they claimed respected Nigerian journalists so much that she would never disparage them. Others simply dismissed Nigerian journalists as “full of crap” even as they repeatedly fail to do away with such “crap.”

Stardom and obsessions it ignites are only a distraction; celebrities are essentially media creations. They are figments of hack writers’ imaginations until they become some other people or most people’s imaginations. They intrude even your imagination and influence it; basically they corrupt it sooner than you can ever imagine.

Like eternal retches of human surfeit, suckers for celebrity culture remain on the receiving end of a barrage of deceitfulness and scorn unapologetically dished to them usually by their most treasured superstar. Your favorite actor does not care about you neither does your much loved music star, writer, footballer, industry titan or politician. Despite their pretences otherwise, they do not give a hoot about you. Why then must you obsess about them? Must you diminish your intellect and worth for their love?

Many a time, a star-struck fan or journalist or what is known in media parlance as “Society Reporter” is openly humiliated by so-called celebrities for usually “justifiable” reasons. That has to be ironic. It is, given the perceptible desperation with which most celebrities court journalists’ and the public’s favour before their rise to renown.

No sooner than they become the celebrities of their dreams, they become virtually inaccessible and perpetually out of reach of the same reporters and fans whose patronage they relentlessly sought till they chanced on fame. Take for instance, some middling youngster whose claim to fame is essentially, a horrendous cameo role in a “Reality Show,” today, she can brazenly claim favourable media mention for herself in foremost general interest newspapers at a paltry N10, 000. She only need hire a “Publicist” or “Manager;” usually and quite unethically, a practicing journalist, to secure her continual media mention according to her whim.

Apparently, it is hardly such social windbags’ fault that they are bizarrely deified by journalists and their teeming fans. You could never fault them for enjoying the attention. After all, they had attained success and renown by cunning and concerted efforts – oftentimes to the detriment of teeming youth unjustifiably denied stardom due to their inability to be total idiots.

Celebrity journalists and their diehard fans are to blame as much as the big businesses persistently promoting “Reality Shows” among other platforms upon which such dimness is elevated in careless abandon.

Consider the renown of your favourite idols. How many times have you endeavoured to fully understand your passion for them beyond the perception that they are “cool?” What does it take to be “cool?” Is your definition of “cool” reminiscent of common sense characteristic of a fourteen year-old post-pubescent brain?

As a fan and audience of celebrity culture, how do you fare in celebrity appreciation for pleasure? To what extent is your obsession with celebrity gossip bound with perversion? How

Broadcast President Jonathan never made

By Sunday Dare

Nigeria will under my watch no longer tolerate any such attacks and assault on our lives and our collective security. Our homeland will not be turned into an enclave for terrorists.

Which is why I condemn in the very strongest terms the attack on the UN building last Friday. It is a barbaric act, senseless and indefensible. It is an attack on both national and global security. It demonstrates the lowest level to which those that disagree with the civil way we live our lives can sink. This attack re-awakens us to the need for greater security consciousness. A security orientation that is robust and effective- powerful enough to sniff from a distance those plotting to destroy our society, our values and our loved ones. A new security regime that puts the security of Nigeria and every Nigerian first above every other consideration is underway as I speak. The series of bombings to which the group that calls itself Boko Haram has owned up to challenges the national security of the Nigerian nation and her sovereignty. This is unacceptable and I am ready to lead the battle to reverse this trend. Our desire for dialogue and call for restraint and tolerance must not be regarded as a weakness or that of being slow to act. Rather, it must be seen as a first practical approach to resolving a sensitive issue. However, when the season of such desire for conversation lapses or is rewarded with more bombs and attacks, Nigeria as a country is left with no other choice than to defend itself. Under my leadership, Nigeria will rise up to this challenge. I call on all security oufits in the country to step up to the plate in their intelligence and routine security work. I direct that the Police, SSS, NIA and the Army share the intelligence they gather on a very frequent basis. To this end, I announce the creation of the Nigerian Homeland Security, NHS, whose sole mandate will be to secure our borders and all entry points and also ensure internal security based on the intelligence gathered. The NHS will henceforth serve as a clearing house for all security matters and will under the purview of the National Security Adviser report directly to the Presidency. The leadership of this body will be drawn from experienced hands found in all our

do you distinguish wanton celebrities from significant icons? Could you see the manifestations of shameful idolatry and pretentious morality even if you tried? Could you appreciate your inability to discover the foibles of your favourite pop idol as a form of perversion in itself?

Idolatry is often a rite of public humiliation not just in the shaming of hungry journalists cum celebrities’ “publicists” or “media managers” but in the intimidation and total perversion of their teeming audiences and loyalists – which basically seems to be the point.

Celebrities we have now, in essence, epitomize our guilty secrets. They represent the grossest manners of bringing to the limelight, various perversions we would not easily admit.

Thus the ample reasons stardom is electrifying and undignified at the same time.

A more critical approach to the drama of exhibition essential to modern celebrity culture would be to consider it from a historical perspective. “It is far from honouring him who made us,” Montaigne writes, “to honour him whom we have made.” For Leo Braudy, Augustine is the key figure.

Augustine saw Lucretia’s suicide not as proof of her virtue but the opposite.

He called her “Praeclarissa – the most visible,” her error being to have committed suicide in order to make what is in her heart visible – the only way, as she saw it, to display her inner worth to the eyes of men.

Nigerian celebrities consequently present comparable paradox in their pursuit of acclaim and higher self worth, which is why their acts of silliness and generosity are at once duplicitous and sincere, depending on which side of the divide you consider such acts – as a critic or blundering fan.

• To be continued…

For SMS only 08038551123

security outfits and patriotic Nigerians will be employed and trained to serve as foot soldiers in the defence of our fatherland. I call on the Immigrations and Customs to rise up to their responsibilities and secure our borders.

No longer will the entry of illegal and undocumented persons alongside illegal shipments of goods be allowed.

A weekly report of their activities must be made available to the Nigerian Homeland Security, NHS. We must all be willing henceforth to give up some of our freedoms in order to ensure our security and increase the chances of persons that wish to do us harm. Therefore, I call upon all Nigerians to forbear and be patient with our security and intelligence forces as they carry our screenings and searches and ask questions. I wish to assure Nigerians that their fundamental human rights will not be violated in so long as the necessary cooperation is extended. In the same token, I call upon the officers of the law to perform their task with respect and professionalism. I call upon all peace loving Nigerians to go about their businesses without any fear. Only the guilty need to fear.

The hour is past midnight.We now know that the time for action is here. We are convinced that rather than choose the path of peaceful resolution, some persons have chosen the path of violence. We know for sure that Nigeria is under attack. But we will not waiver, falter or fail. We will rise up as patriots who love this country and who want to see it attain greatness to defend our freedoms.

I trust that the international community will support us in this battle to win our country back and defend it against future attacks and security breaches. Nigeria is our country and we will not negotiate it away to any group or organization. I therefore call on all Nigerians to join hands with me and my administration to confront this evil and work to roll back the threat of terrorism. We must ensure that the labour of our heroes’ past and our courageous forbears will never be in vain. God bless you all and God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

‘Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe, to assure the survival and the success of liberty”’

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

22

EDITORIAL/OPINION

A

NY nation that has security challenges can not easily be said to be walking the path of greatness. Without peace, it is evident that no meaningful development or growth can take place. Across Africa and in the Middle East, the world has been treated to the harsh consequences of the devastating effects of groups with activities that tend to destroy and diminish humanity. On September 11th, 2001, one of such heinous groups by the name Al’Qaeda struck in the United States and ever since, that country has developed every means possible to halt recurrence in its jurisdiction and has gone as far as even attempting to rid human vermin that are members of this group known to it that are staying in any country of the world.

That was how Osama bin Laden was killed years after the 9/11 attack.

And at the present moment, Nigeria, the self acclaimed giant of Africa is undergoing the greatest threat to its internal peace arising from the menace posed by the activities of a perilous Islamic sect called Boko Haram. Yet, nothing seems to be done at the leadership level to halt this debilitating menace.

Between the first and eighth month of this year, not less than eight bomb blasts had occurred in especially the northern part of the country. An adumbration shows that on January 1, 2011, an Abuja Army Barracks Mammy Market was bombed. On April 8, 2011, the INEC office in Suleja, Niger State

‘It is important to inquire from Mr President whether he controls these security chiefs or that they control him? It is equally disgusting to note that because leadership has failed the nation, those in-charge of security in the country too are capitalising on that to be inept in their approach to tackling security problems’

I

AM not an economist. Even if I was, I cannot claim to know enough to advise an acclaimed guru who is good enough to head the world’s money and economics bastion - the World Bank. I mean no insolence trying to tell her what to do, but the job she is saddled with is a tricky one. It is not straight forward economics; it is not about monetary policies or financial engineering. It is half poverty alleviation, half public affairs and half politics.

Mind you, this is your second coming. It was a different ball game the first time. You were also quite lucky then. The stakes are higher now. While your former boss was a barracuda and a bulldozer, the current one is reclining and temperate. But he has whole heatedly handed you the economic cross of the country to carry. If you win with it, he takes the glory, deservedly. If you crash, you carry the can. Then again, your novelty among Nigerians has worn. This time therefore, it won’t be about what Fitch or Standard and Poor think. No, it’s about what ordinary folks like me think. The reason is that ours is still a ‘pure water’ economy with peculiar indices of measure. In fact, you will do well to measure your progress by the prices of garri and rice in our local markets.

Another point: what you have taken on is a crazy job; I do not envy you. A dumb job in which you are going to be contending with traitors and maniacs whose only creed is money and power. How you are going to manage the National Assembly for instance, I cannot fathom and I do not have any advice for you on that. You will have to figure that out for yourself on a case by case basis. But your exit strategy you must resolve from the outset and my advice is that whenever it gets the point they won’t let you get the minimum job done, please take a walk without thinking about it.

As you already know, a voodoo columnist has accused you of taking this job as a plot for grabbing another job four years hence, so look out for the dagger in the smiles of many around you. Someone has to bite this bullet you might say, and you look like a crazy patriot to accept to jump onto this seamless muck from your pristine heights but, this is stuff for legends, either way it goes.

Having done this general intro., here are a few points picked from the streets which you may wish to consider: BUDGET PROCESS: What can i tell you

From 9/11 to 8/26 was bombed leading to the death of six persons; on April 26, 2011, another bomb blast happened in Maiduguri, Borno State; By May 29, 2011 a bomb exploded at the Mammy Market of Shandawanka Barracks in Bauchi where Azubuike Ihejirika, Chief of Army Staff, confirmed that 13 people died and 40 others injured. On May 30, 2011, an early morning bomb explosion occurred on Baga road in Maiduguri. Also on June 16, 2011, a bomb blast triggered by a suspected but now confirmed Boko Haram suicide bomber hit the Police Headquarters in Abuja.

At this juncture, there are several pertinent questions that deserve urgent answers. It will be interesting to inquire whether truly President Jonathan Goodluck still feels that he is in effective control of the nation. If he thinks so, why is it very difficult for him to put in check the growing invidious influence of Boko Haram that is gradually spreading around the country? The president is not inspiring confidence and courage in Nigerians with his drab leadership style of governing the country. From the look of things, it seems as if the burden of leadership is too overwhelming for this man that providence has power thrown on his laps.

Otherwise, why is he taking him eternity to call his security chiefs to order over their failure through intelligence gathering to clip the wings of these rampaging agents of destruction?

It is important to inquire from Mr President

whether he controls these security chiefs or that they control him? It is equally disgusting to note that because leadership has failed the nation, those in-charge of security in the country too are capitalising on that to be inept in their approach to tackling security problems. Those behind these bombings are not ghosts and it is believed that except there is official complicity, they ought to have been fished out and be made to face the full wrath of law. Not even the argument that some big men in the society are behind the criminals should prevent the security agencies from arresting the culprits involved in these dastard acts.

The history of bomb blasts in Nigeria dates back to 25 years ago, precisely October 19, 1986, during. Ibrahim Babangida’s military administration when Dele Giwa, the Founding Editor-in-Chief of Newswatch magazine, was killed with a parcel bomb in his home in Ikeja, Lagos. Since then, series of bombing incidents had happened especially during the despotic rule of late tyrant General Sani Abacha, who used state instrument of coercion to persecute, intimidate, maim and sometimes kill opponents of his regime.

During that despicable era on May 31, 1995 the Ilorin Stadium was bombed just before the launch of the Family Support Programme.

On January 18, 1996, Durbar Hotel, Kaduna was bombed by a suspect that reportedly bought a copy of Wole Soyinka’s book at the hotel prior to the blast; on January 20, 1996:

EXPRESSO STEVE OSUJI

(SMS O8055001684) email: steve_osuji@yahoo.com

Quick notes for sister Ngo about this matter you supposedly live and breathe? But it must be said that during your first coming, you did not score an ‘A’ in this regard. Okay, blame it on your irrepressible former boss but there won’t be any excuses this time. For the eight years of President Olusegun Obasanjo, the federal budget was a sham that never worked. One of those years there was no Appropriation Bill passed and the country ran on the whims of a few people.

We expect that after four years, you would have imbued the economic landscape with a budgeting culture of timeliness, purposefulness, integrity of implementation and painstaking evaluation. This you must find a way to do at the Federal, State and LGA levels. I have never seen or heard of an LGA budget though. Anyone out there, has your LGA chairman ever read any budget to you?

Yet he gets tens of millions of allocation every month which runs into billions annually. And what about the 2012 budgets?

They ought to be about ready now. Are they?

Power: everything has been said about this subject that the only thing one might add here is for you to work closely with Prof. Barth Nnaji and the President to deliver on his promise that power outage would be a thing of the past come 2015. But where are the milestones and timelines on this allimportant job? If President Jonathan fails on this count, he would be regarded a colossal failure. No excuses will be acceptable.

ROADS: I refrain from naming infrastructure generally since time is short and funding is sparse. There are about a dozen major federal roads that are crying for urgent attention. Why no thing is being done (and seen to being done) about them is a mystery me. There is an unbelievable state of inertia

today. Is it possible to trigger some action?

Still boils down to making our budgets work.

Can we bring back the toll gates on our most important highways as a prelude to concessioning them? Our ears are full with the buzz ‘PPP’ but we hardly see it in action in Nigeria.

AGRICULTURE: Agric presents the most ludicrous paradox of our time. It is said that we spent N 1.3 trillion in the importation of such food stuff as sugar, wheat, rice and fish in 2010. That is roughly one quarter of our federal budget. These are commodities we can produce enough to feed the world. Rice particularly. We have become so dependent on Thailand for rice that she could recolonize us if she chooses to. Nigeria ranks number two in world rice imports and number one in wheat. Thank goodness the President feels the shame of this absurdity when he affirmed recently that the importation of rice will stop before the end of his tenure in 2015. Hear him, ‘’there is no reason why Nigeria should be importing rice. We have all that is needed to grow enough for domestic consumption and have surplus we can export to other countries.’’ Quickly we can organize growers, the millers, importer and dealer and take it from there.

CORRUPTION: this matter is so dangerously peculiar around here these days that we are more comfortable keeping mute about it. We don’t want to talk about it, let’s leave it be. Well, you must face up to it if you will make any scratch otherwise the virus will scorch your efforts right after you. This is a tough one i tell you because it is now business unusual. Yes, no mistake there, UNUSUAL! The next guy seeks to make away with the treasury, yes the entire treasury of

Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano was bombed; also on April 11and 25, 1996, the Ikeja Cantonment, Lagos and the Air Force Base, Ikeja were bombed. On November 14, 1996, Murtala Mohammed International Airport was bombed leading to the death of its Chief Security Officer.

Surprisingly too on December 16, 1996, a bomb blast reportedly hit the convoy of Colonel Buba Marwa, then Military Governor of Lagos State. By December 18, 1996, a bus belonging to the Lagos State Task Force on Environmental Sanitation was hit by a bomb just as on January 17, 1997, another bus belonging to the Nigerian Army was bombed. On April 22, 1997, a bomb blast at Evans Square, Lagos, claimed three lives with several others injured. In December 13, 1997: Lt. Gen Oladipo Diya escaped death at the Abuja Airport while on May 12, 1997: Ibadan witnessed its pioneer dose of explosion in front of the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing at Eleyele road. Not many would easily forget the January 27, 2002 accidental bomb explosions at the Ikeja Cantonment in Lagos leading to the death of more than 1,000 persons. On March 15, 2010 somewhere in Warri, Delta state during an Amnesty Dialogue sponsored by a newspaper, a bomb that disturbed the tranquillity of the event exploded.

However, one significant ominous signs that the president ignored was the bomb blast that occurred on October 1, 2010 during nation’s 50th Independence anniversary celebrations in Abuja killing several persons in the process. Because of the poor official handling of that episode and statement gaffe of Mr President, other evil minded persons have been emboldened to take further devilish steps that are endangering the nation’s national security including the last condemnable bombing of the United Nations House of August 26th in Abuja killing several persons and injuring hundreds of others.

Something urgent has to be done to stem the tide of Boko Haram that is now assuming an international dimension with the bombing of the UN office in Nigeria. Else, President Jonathan will confirm the general notion that he is weak, and may if care is not earnestly taken, lose control of the wheel of state. the Federal Republic. Nothing will happen; that he knows for sure. Where is Dimeji Bankole for instance?

Well, some small comfort: get your Auditor-general to do his work if he is not virused that is. If he gives us a report like a certain Vincent Azia did the other day and you chase your budget vigorously, you just might get somewhere.

Finally while you are at this, though your economic plan is good (needs more fine tuning though) what are the quick wins to throw to Nigerians in the next three months?

You spoke about massive direct works. Please roll them out quickly. Let the cash flow, the town is harmattan-dry. Wish you luck my sister.

LAST MUG: Lotanna Ojukwu’s shame: Lotanna Ojukwu is a sibling of Dim Odimegwu Ojukwu who is currently recuperating in a London hospital. Now the story we got recently is that he tried to forcefully take over Villaska Lodge Ikoyi, Lagos, the famous abode of Dim in Lagos.

Lotanna claims that the house belongs to Ojukwu Transport Company and not to Dim and that it requires renovation. It took the intervention of MASSOB leader, Uwazuruike to make Lotanna back off from locking horns with Bianca, Dim’s wife, over the property. Is Dim dead yet?

‘I have never seen or heard of an LGA budget though. Anyone out there, has your LGA chairman ever read any budget to you? Yet he gets tens of millions of allocation every month which runs into billions annually.

And what about the 2012 budgets? They ought to be about ready now. Are they?’

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

23

24

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

DISASTER

CRIME

APPEAL

Flood destroys N507m farmland

‘Why I lied against Police Commissioner’

NGO challenges PHCN on commitment

Ebonyi

28

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

N

igerians have been urged to ensure that indigenous languages do not disappear.

How? By ensuring that their children acquire their mother-tongue, rather than learn it.

The admonition was made by the Executive Secretary/CEO of the National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO), Barclays Ayakoroma while presenting an address at the opening ceremony of the 2011 indigenous language programme held at the Southeast zonal office in Owerri, the Imo State capital.

While stressing that native languages should not be allowed to be endangered by the forces of

Lagos

38

Delta

40

Page 25

Email: news_extra@yahoo.com

‘How to protect our languages’ From Emma Mgbeahurike, Owerri

globalisation, Ayakoroma said “there is need to conserve linguistic diversity, especially in the face of the English language’s awesome ability to displace and eliminate other languages.”

Ayakoroma who was represented by the Acting Director Finance and Accounts Mr. G. Ordu noted that one of the challenges facing the institute is the need to ensure that all efforts geared towards propagating culture and raising awareness in speaking indigenous

language is not wasted.

According to him, it is no longer the responsibility of government agencies alone in this task of preserving native languages and keeping them from dying.

He said: “The prediction that some of our indigenous languages especially Igbo are facing the risk of extinction should not be allowed to be a reality.”

In her speech, the coordinator Southeast zone Mrs. Chioma Duru stressed the determination of NICO in raising the consciousness of Nigerians in ap-

preciating the fact that indigenous language is an integral part of people’s cultural heritage.

According to her, this is because culture is shared and transmitted through language. She emphasised that if you take language away from culture, you have taken away its greeting, its praises, proverbs, jokes, riddles, wisdom and prayers, thereby making it to lose its uniqueness.

She encouraged parents, churches, •Continued on Page 26

After war, community rebuilds L

IFE is returning to Nsadop community in Boki Local Government Area of Cross River State after a clash with a neighbouring town left it in ruins.

Homesteads are taking shape, door frames fitted and roofs knocked into place.

The state Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) is playing a big role in the rehabilitation. And for that, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has commended it, praising its commitment to the victims of the communal clash.

The Director-General, NEMA, Alhaji Mohammed Sani Sidi who gave the commendation during the inspection tour of the community to assess the level of work on the sites said over 60 per cent of the job had been completed.

Recall that the Nsadop community was, in October, 2010, besieged by its Boje neighbour over boundary tussle in which over 400 houses were destroyed and several lives and properties were lost.

As a result of the invasion, over 6, 000 people including the vulnerable groups–women and children-were displaced. Majority of the people have been living in a camp.

Sidi, who was represented by the Director, Relief and Rehabilitation, Mr. Ezeh Udemezue said that the level of development was satisfactory, even as he called for sustenance to enable the displaced people to return to their homes.

He emphasised that the encouraging feat would spur NEMA to continue to render the needed assistance to the community.

The D-G who inspected virtually all the over 60 units of detached twobedroom flats being constructed with the materials and logistics made available by NEMA and the Cross River

• National and state emergency management officials visit the Nsadop villagers’ camp

Cross River govt builds 60 housing units Peace returns, economic activities pick up From Kunle Johnson, Calabar

State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) expressed the hope that the development would douse any further tension that could degenerate into reprisals in the area.

According to him, the incident was a blow to the image of the Boki nation in particular and Nigeria as a whole. This is because the event portrayed the people as haters of their brothers in contrast to the fact that Nigerians are known for their brotherly love, tenderness, care for one another, social and cultural bonds.

He stated that even though the social

status of the community would eventually be improved by the construction of standardised structures and road network which the village hitherto lacked, the resources could have been ploughed into other developmental programmes that would better the lot of Nigerians.

“The community and its neighbours should live in peace so as to avoid chaotic situations that could affect the high moral reputation of the Boki people,” he said.

In a remark, the Director-General Cross River State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Mr. Vincent Aquah (MON), recalled the state of trauma and

disillusionment of the people of Nsadop at the wake of the incident which left hundreds of houses burnt alongside property, livestock as well as several human lives that were lost during the invasion.

The D-G who conducted the NEMA team round the three major villages of the community where the houses were being constructed – Kaku, Kashie and Kejip- said that it was a sorry sight that everyone should endeavour to avoid.

According to him, the invaders spared no structure as they carried out their •Continued on Page 26

THE NATION

26

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

Community rebuilds •Continued from page 25

nefarious action with impunity and brutality, displacing the people some of whom escaped into the forest where they were exposed to unhealthy situations and lack of food and water for over a week.

Mr. Aquah, who was represented by the Assistant Director of Information in the agency, Mr. David Akate, said that the pathetic situation prompted Governor Liyel Imoke to intervene passionately through SEMA by providing their essential needs.

The D-G said a camp was immediately set up to accommodate the victims.

He commended NEMA for the prompt and encouraging support through the provision of foodstuff, beddings, building materials and other necessities.

The SEMA boss applauded the chiefs and youths of the community for adhering to the guidelines of camp rules and for creating an enabling atmosphere for a smooth operation of the mass care activities of the agency.

According to him, SEMA is closely monitoring the reconstruction of the village, hoping that in no distant time, the situation will normalise.

The chairman of the Nsadop Rehabilitation Committee, Chief Edward Nyiam, in an address commended NEMA for its zeal towards helping the community to recover from the trauma occasioned by the invasion.

Chief Nyiam also thanked the Director-General SEMA for the

SEMA is closely monitoring the reconstruction of the village, hoping that in no distant time, the situation will normalise •A building taking shape in the community

prompt release of all materials to Nsadop.

According to him, such gesture has renewed their spirit of loyalty to the state and Federal Government, even as he promised that the people would do everything possible to maintain the peace and to effectively channel their Godgiven human and natural resources towards human capacity development.

He therefore called for sustained assistance to ensure the completion of the rehabilitation process.

Newsextra observed that the community which, in the wake of the crisis, was reduced to what

could be described as a ghost town, was bubbly.

Thousands of people who had earlier fled the community had started going back to their homes, resulting in the agrarian community becoming agog again.

Economic activities are picking up once again.

Ms Franca Obi, 26, told Newsextra that she could now heave a sigh of relief as peace and tranquillity were gradually returning to the village.

Pointing to a heap of over 60 bunches of plantain newly harvested; she said that they could now go into their farms to plant and harvest with minimal fears of being attacked by anyone.

Another member of the

community, John Odu, 56, said the youth are cool-headed, disciplined and morally upright and had no iota of plan for reprisals as they have regarded the incident as a mistake that should never be made again in the entire Boki nation.

He further said that the unwarranted disturbance to peace and tranquillity hitherto enjoyed by the people had brought the reputation of the people to an abysmal low level and that it was time to rebuild again.

Mr Matthew Bisong disclosed to Newsextra that interaction with their attackers and other adjourning villages was gradually on the upbeat, even as he hoped that total peace and reconciliation

‘How to protect our languages’ •Continued from page 25

custodians of culture and stakeholders not to shy away from their responsibilities in preventing the extinction of our indigenous languages.

Regretting that many of the elders who should know better about the importance of our native languages in cultural preservation and continuity have lost fluency in speaking their mother-tongue, she stated that modern

Uduaghan praised over appointment of ex-council chief

homes have children who, instead of acquiring their mother tongue, now acquire the foreign language and then learn their mother tongue. She disclosed that a language dies when it’s not spoken.

She commended the participants for showing great interest in the programme and urged them to continue to endeavour in this direction, submitting that this zeal is an indication of their commitment language to keep our indigenous languages alive.

From Polycarp Orosevwotu, Ughelli

•Uduaghan

A

•Children mending fishing nets near Dinya River at Zumba village, Niger State

would take place.

The 26-year-old Bisong commended the state government which, through SEMA, has been able to restore life to the community through its intervention and humanitarian gestures.

The youth leader of Nsadop, Matthew Tawo (Alawa) (32) said that the subtle, humble and dexterous manner in which SEMA carried out the intervention from the onset was heart-warming.

He urged the state government to continue to encourage the agency.

When Newsextra visited the camp, it discovered that over five families lived in each of the over 40 rooms provided by SEMA and that the people were existing in harmony.

FORUM, the Sapele Political Vanguard in Delta State has commended Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan on the appointment of Hon. Michael Diden, former council chairman, Warri North Local Government Area into the reconstituted board of the Delta State Oil-Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC).

The group’s Provost and Financial Secretary Hon. Dickson Omoraka and Hon. Sunny Agemerien, immediate past Vice-Chairman of Sapele Local Government Area said the appointment of Hon. Diden is a testimony of another round of transformation for youths in Delta State.

The duo, who described Diden as a generous, God-fearing and detribalised man, said his appointment was a sign of recogni-

tion to their group and a landmark of his doggedness and commitment to the party both in Warri North in particular and Delta State in general.

Omoraka and Agemerien said they have no doubt that Hon. Diden will deploy his years of experience as former Warri North Council chairman to promote, enhance and ensure that more dividends of democracy get to the people’s door steps. Meanwhile, Hon. Michael Diden had earlier commended Governor Uduaghan for his appointment as one of the commissioners of the Delta State Oil-Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), describing his appointment as God’s design. He promised to use the position to affect lives of the people positively.

He said Uduaghan’s government has brought hope to the hopeless. All Deltans should give him the necessary support and cooperation to move the state forward, saying that his three-point agenda has brought meaningful development to the area.

THE NATION

27

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

•Dignitaries at the lecture

T

HE Ondo State Local Government Commission has organised a public lecture on how people at the grassroots can help achieve the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).

At the lecture which held at A&T Presidential Hotel, Akure, the state capital, a guest speaker suggested a way to make local council achieve more.

The Dean, Faculty of Law, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Prof.

Ademola Popoola, criticised the manner local council funds from the federation accounts are being handled by the federal and state governments in the country.

Poopola noted with concern, that the federal and state governments are usually in custody of council funds from the federation account and release a paltry sum that is hardly enough to take care of personnel costs.

He said: “A situation where allocations already made to the local governments by the federation allocation committee are subjected to redistribution by the state governments is a clear breach of the constitution.”

He explained that Section 162 sub-section 6 of the 1999 constitution states that each state shall maintain a special account to be called State Joint Local Government Account in which shall be paid all allocations to the local government councils.

He however noted that contrary to the intent and letters of the constitution on the operation of the joint account, state governments redistribute and reallocate monies already appropriated to local councils from the federation account.

He said states are doing so in the name of joint projects, which according to him, are now resulting in various illegal deductions from local government funds.

‘Council funds shouldn’t be tampered with’ From Damisi Ojo, Akure

“At the end of such deductions, what finally gets to the local councils is hardly enough to cover overhead and recurrent expenditures, leaving little or nothing to embark on capital projects and programmes that will improve the lives of the people in their communities,” he said.

“It is very worrisome, what is happening in the Nigerian local government system. Nigeria is a country other African nations look up to for good leadership and as a role model for democratic practice and norms.

“The irony is that Nigerian leaders at the head of state and ministerial levels have been partners in the signing of several international treaties and conventions geared towards entrenching decentralization and deepening local democracy including the Aberdeen convention.

“It is therefore very unfortunate that what is in practice today is an aberration

of internationally accepted democratic norms.”

Popoola noted that the current situation had impeded effective service delivery at the local governments in Nigeria.

He said, “The question is, can the federal government police funds disbursed to the state governments from federation account? The answer is a clear NO. “Then where does the state derive the legal and moral backing to do the same to local governments?”

The don maintained that statutory allocations to each tier of government should be sacrosanct and that it is only by being so that that nation can hold that tier of government responsible and accountable.

He noted that one of the basic principles of federalism is the separateness and independence of each government.

This he said presupposes that each government enjoys separate existence and independence from the control of the other governments.

A situation where allocations already made to the local governments by the federation allocation committee are subjected to redistribution by the state governments is a clear breach of the constitution

He said arbitrary take-over of funds meant for another tier of government was a clear contradiction of the principle of federalism.

He said federalism was conceived as a device for enabling each group in the plural society to look after its own internal affairs and as an instrument of constitutionalism in limiting the powers of the centre so as to prevent it from becoming an instrument of total domination.

In his address, the chairman of the commission, Alhaji Sadiq Obanoyen who directed the audience to observed a minute silence in honour of his predecessor late Yesiru Oladele for his laudable achievements, said he would strive to improve on the foundation he already laid.

He opined that the quarterly public lecture was essentially to cross-fertilise idea on topical issues for the promotion of effective service delivery at the local government level.

According to him, it would also assist in advancing the dividends of good governance for the society at large.

Obanoyen appreciated Governor Olusegun Mimiko’s efforts in pursuing the Millenium Development Goals [MDGs] as it relates to provision of water and basic sanitation for the people.

He recalled that only this year, the state government created a full-fledged Environment Services Department in the local government.

The Chairman emphasised that that his commission is interested in how local governments could put in place, strong policy initiatives and actions to promote and enhance the existing facilities to meet water and sanitation needs in the communities.

Anambra traffic agency begins operation

M

•Officials of National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) visit Jos crisis victims

EMBERS of the new Anambra State Traffic Agency (ASTA) have commenced operations after undergoing intensive two-month training.

The Secretary to the State Government Chief Paul Odenigbo urged them to uphold integrity and transparency for which Governor Peter Obi’s administration is known for. He addressed them at the Government House, Awka.

Chief Odenigbo however enjoined them to shun all forms of corruption; warning that anybody caught engaging in corrupt practices would be instantly dismissed in line with the state government’s policy on zero-tolerance on crime.

He further explained that their primary assignment is to assist the government to decongest roads and ensure free flow of traffic.

In his remarks, the state’s Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Chief Maja Umeh enjoined the members of ASTA to avoid acts capable of tarnishing the image of the agency. Such acts, he said, include bribery, harassment of in-

From Nwanosike Onu, Awka

nocent citizens and high handedness.

He warned them against being involved in politics, even as he advised them to remain loyal to the state government as well as key into Governor Obi’s policy of uplifting the state.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Special Duties, Mr. Robert Okonkwo said members of the agency had been fully retrained and re-branded with the aim of helping the government to wipe out indiscipline and other excesses in order to promote peace and tranquillity.

Okonkwo further explained that the agency, at present has 300 operatives which would be increased to1, 000 before the end of the year.

He disclosed that they were commencing operation immediately at Ziks Avenue Awka, adding that their operation would centre solely on decongestion of the road to ease vehicular movement, even as they would tow any vehicle wrongly parked and which obstructs movement.

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

28

Oshiomhole harps on welfare

Flood wreaks havoc in Ebonyi

T

•Governor Elechi

HE Executive Secretary of the Ebonyi State Emergency Management Agency SEMA, Chief Igboke Umunna, has said that rice farm worth N507.1 million was destroyed by flood in some communities of Ikwo Local Government Area of the state.

Chief Umunna, who disclosed this to newsmen in Abakaliki, said against report by some National dailies that the farm land destroyed stands at N3.6 billion, the assessment carried out by the agency and the documentation by the communities put it at about N507.1 million.

According to him, “the agency got written reports from some communities in Ikwo Local Government Area of the flood disaster and we have gone and assessed the level of

2,700 ghost workers in Imo councils

T

WO thousand and seven hundred ghost workers have been discovered in the 27 local government areas of Imo

State .

The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Chief Greg Okolie, disclosed this at a Joint Account Allocation Committee (JAAC) post briefing in Owerri,the state capital.

Okolie said that the discoveries were made during the ongoing verification exercise, saying that 1000 ghost workers were discovered in each of the local government council areas bringing the total to 2,700.

The commissioner assured that the verification exercise would continue until government is able to reach an appreciable level.

He announced a total sum of N3.5 billion naira as local government allocation shared among the 27 council areas in the state for the

Imo From Emma Mgbeahurike ,Owerri

month of August after statutory deductions.

According to N2.5b stands as the Statutory Revenue Allocation (SRA), while N463m and N486m came as argumentation and Valued Added Task (VAT).

He hinted that out of the N3.5b allocation, Mbaitoli Council got N99.3m as the highest, and it was closely followed by Owerri Municipal Council with N91.4m.

Ngor-Opkala, Ahiazu Mbaise,Ohaji/ Egbema, Oguta and Isiala Mbano local Government areas went home with N89.8m, N84.1m, N82.1m and N82.8m respectively.

Chief Okolie assured Imo people that the money allotted to the chairmen as allocation would be judiciously managed to address the needs of the councils.

Ebonyi destruction in the communities. We established that the flood devastated the rice farm of these communities and the loss is enormous. The sad thing is that the people cannot recover the rice again because when we visited the area, the water was still there”.

Chief Umunna said that the affected communities include Ofenakpa, Akafaka, Akahufu, Ofurukpe, Udumowo, Ukwuanyim, Agbanyim, Ugwuoke and Ocho Okwu, all in Ikwo Local Government Area of the state, adding that no building nor life was lost in the flood disaster.

He said that the agency has assessed the loss in the affected areas and is currently compiling its reports that would enable the state government and the National Emergency Management Agency NEMA come to the rescue of the people, adding that the agency would recommend something less than the N507.1 million to the state government.

The SEMA Executive Secretary noted that the state government is partnering with the Presidential Committee on Erosion in tackling the problem adding that the solution to the problem of flooding in the state is in sight.

Meanwhile, the National President of Inyimagu Development Association, Chief Ezekiel Nwankwo described the level of destruction as massive and attributed the problem to the constant over flow of the Cross River, saying that flood ravages the community every 10 years.

E

• Abia State Governor Theodore Orji (middle) in a group photograph with Abia State Executive Council members, permanent secretaries, heads of non- ministerial departments and some key governments functionaries during a retreat organised by the state government at Nike Lake Resort, Enugu.

‘Why Southeast industries collapsed’

G

OVERNOR Sullivan Chime of Enugu State has said that the collapse of flourishing industries in the south eastern part of the country over the years can be attributded to lack of access to funds, mismanagement and other ancillary support necessary.This disclosure was made at the inauguration of the South-East zonal office of

Govt relocates Aba cattle market

T

HE Abia State government has approved the relocation of the cattle market and abattoir at the water side area of Aba to IBB Technological Village.

The presence of the market and abattoir has been a source of worry to residents because of its health hazard and hiccup to free flow of traffic.

The market when relocated will have a new and modern abattoir built for the butchers and the IBB technological village.

Speaking in Umuahia after the State Executive Council meeting, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Don Ubani, said that the state government decided to move the market and the abattoir to help decongest the area.

Ubani said that the EXCO has also awarded five contracts worth N3.8 billion and that one of them is the evacuation of electricity generated at Ohiya 132 KVA power station to the tune of N287 million, stressing that it will extend to Afara, Ubakala, Ntigha, Nkwoegwu and Umuopara.

He said that the other contract is the reconstruction of 4.7KM Ohanku road in Aba at N733 million, adding that they are expected to start work immediately to alleviate the sufferings of the peoplein the area.

The commissioner said that Owerri-Ezunaka Road which links the state withAnambra State from Umunneochi Local Government Area

Abia From Ugochukwu Eke, Umuahia

was awarded at N390 million, while another 8.4 KM Obohia road from Aba to Ugwunagbo local government area of the state was signed for N1.7 billion to Coduct Ltd. Ubani said that the final contract awarded to J and J Company in Port-Harcourt for the construction of a new state secretariat was N1.7 billion.

He used the forum to justify the demolition of illegal structures going on in both Aba and Umuahia, saying that government is determined to change the face of the state by following the master plan approved by the founding government of the state.

The Abia government spokesman said that there is no going back on the movement of the electronics dealers in Aba from the city centre to Orie-Ohabiam along the PortHarcourt road and the Ehere market in the Ogbor Hill area of the town.

Ubani said that markets have been built in those areas of the city, “and the traders have no reason not to move to those markets, as government will no longer allow the usage of buildings meant for residence for trading, when markets have been provided”.

• From lef: Chairman, Spronks Creations, Oladare Sobodu (left), Managing Director, Spronks Creation, Aderonke Sobodu and Managing Director, Ketex Venture, Mrs Juliet Ekwonu at Nigeria Wine & Spirit Festival Media Parley in Lagos PHOTO: BOLA OMILABU

T

Enugu From Chris Oji, Enugu

each.

The commissioner said that government would as usual bear the cost of the interest rate since it is a poverty reduction programme.

According to the commissioner, the executive council meeting also approved N32.1million as the state counterpart fund for the execution of Rural Access and Mobility Project (RAMP) in the state.

The RAMP objective, he said, is to construct rural roads in some selected areas to help farmers evacuate their farm produce to the urban areas.

Group makes case for non-indigenes

T •From left: Dr. Akin Ogunsakin, Director of Programme University of Berkley U.S.A. (Africa Representative) Alhaji Aliyu Abubakar, Chairman, A.A.Nig. Ltd Mr Ebunlomo, A.A. Group Propertties during conferment of honourary doctorate degree on Alhaji Abubakar in Abuja

Enugu From Chris Oji, Enugu

the Bank of Industry (BOI) in Enugu.The governor observed that in Nigeria, as in other nations, businesses need access to funds and other services rendered by each country’s Bank of Industry to boost their overall productive capacities and resultantly create employment opportunities.

He, however, noted that the presence of the bank in Enugu was a bold step not only to revive dead or ailing industries in the south east but to promote new businesses and encourage existing ones.

“We are quite optimistic that business concerns in our zone will benefit from these services and that clearly underscores our enthusiasm over today’s event”, Chime said.

He stated that the state government on its part, has continued to provide the enabling environment that will attract prospective investors and keep existing ones in Enugu State, adding that “we shall remain faithful to our vow to create the platform that will make it possible for businesses to thrive”.

The governor disclosed that in a few days, renowned retailing conglomerate, Shoprite, will begin trading operations in Enugu as a prelude to the inauguration of the Enugu Shopping Mall, the biggest in the country.

He added that with industrial estates and parks already designated and an Enugu Free Trade Zone awaiting necessary approvals, the Bank of Industry must gear up for the anticipated upsurge in industrial activities.

Enugu to buy more taxi-cabs

HE Enugu State government has approved the procurement of additional 200 taxi cabs in the state.

The cabs which will be supported by government-backed irrevocable standing payment order for the acquisition, brings to 700 taxi cabs bought and leased out to the unemployed youths in the state by the current administration.

The state Commissioner for Information, Mr. Chuks Ugwoke who announced this while briefing the press at the end of the state executive council meeting, disclosed that the new vehicles would cost about N480million.

Ugwoke said that the Hyundai Accent Executive model vehicles will be leased out to the potential owners at the cost of N2.4 million

HE Non-indigenes Community Forum has appealed to the national leader of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to give consideration to Ndigbo and other non-indigenes, who are interested in contesting the council polls, especially in areas where they are in the majority.

Addressing newsmen in Lagos, the forum chairman, Eze Christian Nwachukwu, said: “The leadership of the ACN is a listening one and Senator Bola Tinubu is the father of the party. We want them to consider our people who are desirous of contesting the forthcoming LG polls, especially in areas where we have majority.

“Our people have worked for the success

37

of the ACN in Lagos, so we want the party to give Ndigbo and other non-indigenes who are interested in chairmanship position equal opportunity to vie for these positions because there are many good materials among Ndigbo in Lagos, who are party members and they will deliver democracy dividends to the people”.

Eze Nwachikwu advised Ndigbo and other non-indigenes, who are vying for the council polls to remain calm, law-abiding and respect party’s constitution, saying : “our leader, the Hon. Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Pastor Ben Akabueze, has promised to dialogue with the party’s leadership on behalf of Ndigbo, so that Ndigbo can have equal opportunity to vie for the council poll.”

The commissioner disclosed that the 523 kilometer Umuabi-Agbudu- the road will serve as pilot rural road.

Also at the meeting, the council approved more than N28 million for the rehabilitation of the state social welfare centre, Emene, Enugu to serve as annex for the provision of psychiatric services by the ESUT Teaching Hospital Park Lane Enugu.

The rehabilitation exercise will include one female hostel, renovation of one male hostel and four semi-detached bungalows that will serve the hospital and provision of kitchen facility.

Group carpets Imo royal fathers

T

HE Orlu Political Consultative Assembly (OPOCA) has accused some traditional rulers in Imo State of working against the reinstatement of the dissolved Council of Traditional Rulers headed by Eze Cletus Ilomuanya.

It also berated some of them for usurping the position of Eze Ilomuanya and turning themselves to stooges of Governor Rochas Okorocha .

National President of OPOCA, Dr Samfo Nwankwo told a news conference in Owerri that the group has information on how the new Deputy Chairman of the Council for Orlu zone, Eze E.C. Okeke has been frustrating moves to resolve the lingering crisis in the council.

DO State Governor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole has called on Nigerians, especially the elite, to resolve to be part of the army of change and insist that the three tiers of government must deliver on a welfare agenda, which is the primary purpose of governance.

The governor, who made the call as a discussant on the topic: Towards a New Nigeria, the Quest for Good Governance and Rule of Law, at the Nigerian Bar Association Annual General Conference held in Port Harcourt, also urged the association to rise up to the challenge of saving the nation from elected political office holders who undermine the rule of law by consuming 80 kobo of every one Naira in the country for themselves.

He posited that there is no nation that can make progress if their level of production is such that

Kalu calls for national reconciliation

A

MID threat to peace and national unity following incessant explosions across the country,former Abia State Governor, Orji Uzor Kalu for the umpteenth time called on the Federal Government to intensify efforts at national reconciliation.

Kalu, who commiserated with the United Nations over the attack on its Nigerian office, regretted the new image that has been foisted on the country due to insecurity.

He said:”These indeed are difficult times in our history,and we must not allow this country to break up.Nigerians have a lot to gain by staying together.We can talk things over.I strongly believe that a National Reconciliation Commission should be established by government.We need peace to achieve national development.”

The ex-governor highlighted the cost of insecurity at a time Nigerians should be reaping the benefits of constitutional government.

“No strong nation lives alone.Government wants to attract foreign investors,especially through the new ministry of Trade and Investment.Nigeria is a Land of Milk and Honey.It will be difficult for us to do business with foreign partners if we continue with the politics of bomb and horror,” he added.

Kalu expressed hope in the ability of Nigerians to air and settle their grievances if offered opportunity through meaningful deliberations.

“We are good people loved so much by God.We can settle our differences.Let the National Reconciliation Commission be empowered to bring various interests together.We should not shy away from settling differences.At the same time,bombs are meant to scatter not build.” Kalu offered.

Briefly

Church holds programme THE Divine Appointment Ministry is to hold a three-day prayer and fasting programme The Senior Pastor and Founder of the church, Reverend ben Eragbai disclosed that the prayer and fasting programme which will end with the monthly ‘Divine Appointment’ is aimed at ushering in the new month of September with prayers .

“The need to seek God’s face especially at this period of hazardous happenings cannot be over emphasised.

There is the need for protection and provision. These can only be made possible through prayers to God”, Rev. Eragbai said.

Other activities of the programme include ministration, songs and counselling. “This period will be a time for sober reflection and a period to meditate and have a quiet time with God. ‘A man that fails to pray, becomes a prey to the devil,” Rev. Eragbai warned. Anointed men of God are expected at the meeting.

The programme with the theme: ‘Total Restoration’ begins from September 1 to September 3

Edo they consume so much and there is nothing left for the ordinary man.

He said: “If you ask the ordinary man on the streets today the meaning of good governance, he will probably say it is a government that addresses his needs, and these needs are very basic: they want shelter, they want to be able to send their children to school, they expect to go to good, well equipped hospitals, they expect to be able to move from one place to another, so they expect good roads.”

According to Comrade Oshiomhole, democracy is not delivered to the electorate in most cases because Nigeria is consuming 80 kobo out of every One Naira on recurrent expenditure for those in government.

He said good governance should be capable of addressing the needs of the

•Oshiomhole average Nigerian and have the capacity to deliver on those basic needs of security, good education, employment, and good health care, access to clean water, transportation and power supply.

Abia to increase IGR

A

BIA State Governor Theodore Orji has urged commissioners and permanent secretaries in the state to think of how to increase the state’s internally generated revenue. This, according to him,would enable government accomplish its programmes and deliver dividends of democracy to the people.

Speaking while declaring open a threeday executive retreat organised by the government for the commissioners, permanent secretaries, heads of nonministerial departments and some key government functionaries at Nike Lake Resort Enugu, Orji reminded them that Abia State was in a hurry to develop, which called for the need to carry them along.

Orji said that the government decided to organise the retreat to enable the commissioners and permanent secretaries key into his administration’s planned developmental strategy, which he said is different from the ad-hoc pattern hitherto being witnessed in the state.

The governor said that the theme of the retreat , Result Driven Strategies: The part to sustainable development in Abia State, was chosen as it “captures the government’s decision to take off for the foundation of new Abia to make it economically viable”.

Orji said, “We have decided to bring you

Abia From Ugochukwu Eke, Umuahia

together through the retreat to define the goals and pace of the government in order to achieve credible goals for Abia; we are expecting to have drastic change of work attitude and idea for the good of the state after the retreat”.

From “At Kunle Johnson, Calabar His words: the end of the retreat, I expect you to have bonded so well that you have a strong team of sharpened mind to direct your various ministries. I expect you to think of how to shore up the revenue of the state during the retreat”.

Orji reminded the participants especially the commissioners of his charge to them during their swearing-in ceremony to submit their development plans to him, and said the aim was to be in tune with his administration’s development policy. of away from the past and urged them to make good use of the opportunity provided by the retreat.

Earlier in his speech, the Secretary to the Government [SSG], Prof. Mkpa Agu Mkpa commended the governor for his interest in improving the quality of service in the state, and assured that they would not disappoint both the governor and Abia people.

Monarch, Islamic leader task Jonathan on security RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan has

P

been urged to do everything within his powers to stop bloodshed and ensure total security of lives and property in the country.

A paramount ruler in Lagos State, the Ojora of Ijora Kingdom, Oba Fatai Aromire Ojora, and the Mai-Kanuribe of Lagos State, Alhaji Mustapha Muhammed who made the call in their Ramadan messages also enjoined members of the Boko Haram to end wanton killing of Nigerians and opt for a peaceful way of presenting their grievances.

The monarch told Newsextra: “The bombings and killings in the country are worrisome and utterly embarrassing. The situation presents our country to the whole world in bad light. We must seek urgent ways to halt the trend; it is fearful and troubling. Look at the number of helpless Nigerians that have been mindlessly

By Dada Aladelokun

killed; the trend, to say the least, makes one’s heart bleed.

“If our police headquarters could be bombed, then we need no one to tell us that there is problem. Just a few days ago, it was the turn of the United Nations’ office in Abuja .” Why then won’t we cry out to our country’s leadership to do anything to save Nigerians?

Why won’t our president and others in power, notably our security agencies lose sleep over the situation? We can’t wait any minute more to act.”

On his part, Muhammed called on all religious leaders – Christian, Muslim and traditional – to rise to the occasion by preaching peace, tolerance and mutual understanding in their various places of worship as a way of re-orientating Nigerians on the need to embrace peaceful coexistence.

• Oba Fatai Oyeyinka Oromire (left) with Alhaji Mustapha Muhammed PHOTO: ISAAC JIMOH AYODELE

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

29

PEOPLE THE NATION

A FIVE-PAGE SECTION ON SOCIETY

•Governor Uduaghan presenting an award to Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse II during Delta State 20th anniversary celebration

Glamour, glitz as Delta marks 20 The Nnebisi Hall of Grand Hotels, Asaba, was packed full of Delta indigenes and their friends as the state marked its 20th anniversary. The people’s culture was on display at the event. OKUNGBOWA AIWERIE reports

T

HEY are sons and daughters of Delta State who have excelled in their respective fields. Their attires confirmed their roots. Bowler hats, colourful fabrics used as wrappers; welltailored tops for men and skyscraping headgears by women. Though tongues differ, they are united by the fact of coming from the same state. Whether you are Urhobo; Isoko; Ijaw; Itsekiri and Igbo, it did not matter the night. What mattered was the celebration of the 20th anniversary of their state and the honour done some of them.

The indigenes and their friends thronged Asaba, the state capital, to join Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan and members of his administration to cel-

ebrate Delta at 20.

The anniversary, a week-long event, afforded the state rechristened the “Finger of God,” an opportunity to showcase its culture.

The colourfully decorated Nnebisi Hall of Grand Hotels, venue of the award ceremony, was packed full as guests waited patiently for the event to start.

The award ceremony, organised by Vanguard Newspapers, was to honour 50 outstanding indigenes for their industry, integrity, professional expertise and contributions to the development of the state and the nation at large.

Those who graced the occasion include the Orodje of Okpe, Maj-Gen. Felix Mujakperuo; Asagba of Asaba, Prof

Chike Edozien; Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse II; former Vice Chancellor, University of Benin, Prof Grace Alele-Williams; Deacon Gamaliel Onosode ; Vice Admiral Dan Preston Omatsola; Chief Wellington Okrika; Dr Evelyn Oputu; Chief Ritalori Ogbebor; Gen Alex Ogomudia and Chief Sonny Odogwu.

Some of the awardees present were Air Marshal Paul Dike; Senator David Dafinone; Alaowei Broderick Bozimo; a former ‘super’ permanent secretary, Chief Allison Ayida; Vanguard newspaper, Mr Sam Amuka-Pemu; Comrade Angodeme Evah; Demas Nwoko; ThisDay publisher Mr. Nduka Obaigbena; Prof Bruce Onobrakpeya and a host of others.

The ceremony, started at 10.45 am, with citations of awardees.

While presenting the award to some of the recipients, Governor Uduaghan extolled their virtues, explaining that most of them had made their marks in various areas of specialisation.

He said: “This award is an initiative meant to recognise these deserving Deltans who have selflessly served the state and country in their various endeavours and whose efforts have helped to transform our society.”

The governor called on Deltans at home and in the Diaspora to make their professional knowledge available to the •Continued on page 30

30

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

SOCIETY

Glamour, glitz as Delta marks 20 •Continued from Page 29

state to quicken the development of infrastructure and the empowerment of Deltans.

“I call on all Deltans in various professions across the world to make themselves known and available to the present administration in the state as your expertise and contacts are very relevant in the development process of our dear state,” the governor said.

Uduaghan promised to re-activate ailing industries and breathe new life into the Warri Port, saying: “We will improve on infrastructure, rehabilitate ailing industries, build roads, attract foreign investors and create jobs for our people. Our efforts at resuscitating the Warri Port are yielding tremendous results.”

Uduaghan said the state has matured at 20 and progressed beyond the imagination of some critics.

His administration, he said, was committed to bringing sustained peace, security and development to the state, stressing that he was on course to having a state that is less dependent on oil.

He praised the founding fathers of the state for their foresight and sacrifices which have helped to lay a solid foundation for the future, adding that his administration is building on that foundation.

The governor also thanked his predecessors for their contributions in making the state what it is today and promised to con-

•A cross section of Okpe traditional chiefs

tinue on the steady march towards sustainable development with the co-operation of all Deltans.

Also, present were past military administrators of the state while the first civilian governor, Chief Felix Ibru, was represented.

A gala night was organised at the Events Centre, Asaba, later in the evening.

•Delta State Chief Judge,Justice Abiodun Smith, presenting an award to Finance Minister, Dr Ngozi OkonjoIweala who was represented by her father,Obi of Ogwashi-Uku,Prof Chukwuka Okonjo

•A section of audience at the award

AWARD

TRAINING

•Dr. T.O.E Ekechi, former Special Adviser to the Minister of Interior and Chairman, Marketing and Media Ltd, being congratulated by his wife, Tata, at the conferment of Honorary Doctor of Letters Degree (D.Litt) by the University of Berkley, Michigan, U.S.A.

• From left: Publisher, Castles Magazine, Mr Dipo Davies, Head, Training, FATE Foundation, Elizabeth Odofin, CEO Avis Nigeria, Mr Wole Ogunbajo and Head, High Value Segment, Etisalat Mr Bidemi Ladipo at the Marketable & Workable Business Plans training sponsored by Etisalat.

31

31

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

SOCIETY

NASFAT celebrates its dear one Ogun State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Alhaji Yusuph Olaniyonu was honoured by the NasrulLahi-l-Fatih Society (NASFAT), at the Airport Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos last Saturday. TAJUDEEN ADEBANJO reports.

I

T was meant to be an Iftar (Breaking of fast) with editors, but it turned out to be a reception in honour of the former Chairman, ThisDay Editorial Board, Alhaji Yusuph Olaniyonu, on his appointment as Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Ogun State.

The event, organised by Nasrul-Lahi-l-Fatih Society (NASFAT), was held at the Airport Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos on Saturday.

Olaniyonu’s friends, family members, colleagues and fellow Muslims thronged the Oyo Hall of the hotel to felicitate with him.

Decked in a flowing blue Agbada, a cap and black shoes, the celebrator stepped into the hall beaming with smiles.

He was accompanied by his pretty wife, Aishat Odunayo.

The high point of the event that featured prayers, keynote addresses, lecture, was the reading of the celebrator’s citation.

Olaniyonu’s resume covers his birth in Ogun State on July 30, 1966, his primary and secondary school education, and how he traversed four higher institutions in search of knowledge.

He studied at the Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, Abeokuta, the University of Ibadan, Lagos State University and University of Lagos, where he obtained certificates in Mass Communication, Communication Arts and Law. He bagged two Masters Degrees - one in law and the other in Communication Studies.

Olaniyonu began his journalism with The Sunday Magazine (TSM) in 1989 as a reporter/researcher and rose to become Associate Editor before he moved to The

Week Magazine as Assistant Editor and later Associate Editor before joining the ThisDay as Political Editor and later Group News Editor. He had a stint with the defunct Comet newspaper as Political Editor, before returning to ThisDay as Deputy Editor of the Sunday title, and later became the Editor. He subsequently, became Chairman, Editorial Board of the paper.

Welcoming the guests, NAFSAT’s President, Alhaji Sherif Yusuf, thanked the media for the support given to the group in promoting its activities and Islam as a religion.

Yusuf said the group was formed to promote standard as enjoined in the Holy Quran and the Sunnah of the Holy Prophet Muhammed in the practice of Islam and never to worship any hero.

The society that began in a small room, he said, has spread across many cities in Nigeria and outside it.

Yusuf spoke about the achievements of the association since its formation 15 years ago, saying it established Fountain University, which will graduate its first set of students next month.

As a pacesetter, the president said NASFAT’s mission is to redefine the way Islam is perceived around the world and build a community of enlightened Muslims who are grounded in the true tenets of Islam.

He revealed plans by NASFAT to build a monument by Muslims worldwide on its parcel of land on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, which will be a pride to them.

The guest speaker, Dr Luqman Adedeji, congratu-

lated Olaniyonu on his appointment.

Adedeji, a Senior Lecturer at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), described the celebrator as a kind-hearted person.

The don urged Muslims to always display the true character of Islam.

“Our clerics should not limit the scope of the Quran to the spiritual challenges. Let us read, understand and live by the teachings of the Holy Book. If this is done, Muslims would be the best among the best of mankind,” he said.

Also speaking, Deputy Chief of Staff to Ogun State governor, Alhaji Shuaib Salith, described Olaniyonu as a brother and soul mate.

“I am not privileged to have known him for many years, but within the last three months we have been working together, it has been wonderful knowing him,” he said.

Salith said the award-winning journalist has demonstrated capacity and capability for government work.

“He has brought so much vigour and panache into the government. He sacrificed going for Umrah (lesser hajj) to ensure that preparations for Governor Ibikunle Amosun 100 days in office are unhindered. Such is the life of a great man we are celebrating today,” he said.

Olaniyonu hailed NASFAT for the honour him.

He thanked friends and colleagues who came to felicitate with him.

“This society”, he said, “has been very good to me. This marks the second time NASFAT will be celebrating me. I am proud to be a member.”

He urged those yet to join the group to do so because “there are manifest proofs that Allah answers prayers here.”

• Chairman, Zmirage, Alhaji Teju Kareem (right) and Mr Sunday Bankole

•From Left: Alhaji Olaniyonu; Alhaji Yusuf and NASFAT Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Biyi Bamgbose

•From Left: Dr Adedeji; Mr Moruf Ajiroba and Dr Tajudeen Seriki

•NASFAT’s Women Leader, Alhaja Nofisat Arogundade (right) and the celebrator’s wife, Alhaja Aishat

• Former NASFAT General Secretary, Mr Mahmud Alabidun (right) and former Asst General Secretary, Alhaji Bisiriyu Afolabi,

32

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

SOCIETY House of Representatives member Hon Michael Opeyemi Bamidele recently celebrated his 48th birthday in AdoEkiti, Ekiti State capital. EMMANUEL OLADESU was there.

48 hearty cheers to MOB A

T 48, life goes on for Opeyemi Bamidele, lawyer, politician, administrator and honourable member, House of Representatives.

From the University of Benin, where he was the President of National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), to the bar and politics, where he savoured legal and political tutelage under worthy role models; to the National Assembly, where he is representing his people, life has been kind to him.

The Ekiti patriot, as he is fondly called, has not disappointed his mentor, the Asiwaju of Lagos and Jagaban Borgu, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, who discovered him, nurtured his talents and sent him on political voyage.

When Bamidele, therefore, rolled out the drums in AdoEkiti to celebrate his 48 years with professional colleagues, friends and political associates joining him, it underscored the fact that he had shifted his political base from Oshodi to Ekiti Central.

Accompanied by his wife, Yemisi, and children; David, who thrilled guests with his dexterity on the piano; Aanuoluwa and Rebecca, MOB as he is often called, was in a joyous mood as he cut the anniversary cake, amid cheers by well-wishers.

This year’s birthday had a full dose of Ekiti content. Itinerant drummers and praise singers in Ekiti dialect were not left out as they added colour in exhibiting the beautiful Ekiti culture.

Aside the pomp that greeted the occasion, the event offered Opeyemi the opportunity to make a political statement that he has returned to his land of birth to make impact as he did in Lagos State where served as a commissioner for 11 years.

The array of guests at the birthday, which held at the Christ’s School Millennium Hall, attested to his stature as the pack was led by the masses’ governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi, and his delectable wife and, President, African Women Development Fund, Erelu Bisi Fayemi.

The gathering, however, was not about wining and dining; two key issues highlighted the ceremony. They were a lecture on “The errands of progress,” organised by committee of friends led

by Rev. Tunji Adebiyi, which was delivered by Opeyemi’s ‘twin brother’ in the pro-democracy struggle and Lagos State Commissioner for

Transportation, Comrade Kayode Opeifa, and a thanksgiving service at the Anglican Church, Iyin-Ekiti, officiated by the Bishop of Ekiti Diocese, Rt-Rev S. Abe. Shortly after the lecture students of the Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti, took the floor. Led by the Speaker of the Students’ Parliament, Jonathan Makinde, they conferred on Bamidele a merit award in recognition of his contributions to political activism in Nigeria.

At the lecture chaired by the former Ekiti State Governor, Niyi Adebayo, were Oluyin of Iyin, Oba Ademola Ajakaye; Bishop Oluniyo; Bishop Felix Ajakaye; Sir Remi Omotoso; Prof Isola Olomola; Deacon Deji Bamidele; Dr Bunmi Onigbinde; Mrs Bukola Ajayi; Chief Remi Oguntuase and Mrs Ronke Okunsanya.

Others were House of Representatives member Hon Moruf Akinderu-Fatai; House of Assembly member representing Moba II constituency, Ayo Olatunde; Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Information and Strategy, Mrs Oluranti Odutola; Prof. Akin Ogunlade; Prof.

(Mrs) Adelabu; Chief Femi Oyebanjo; Mrs Abiodun Opeifa and Hon Olayinka Bello.

At the reception, which also held in his honour, Ekiti State Government Secretariat literarily relocated to Christ School’s premises, Ado-Ekiti, venue of the event, with commissioners and special advisers trooping in to celebrate with Bamidele. In happy mood were Commissioner for Education, Dr Eniola Ajayi; his counterpart in Works, Sola Adebayo; Tourism commissioner, Ayodele Jinadu; his Health counterpart, Oluwole Olugboji; Paul Omotoso of Special Duties; Dayo Akinlaja of Justice; the Chief of Staff, Yemi Adaramodu; Special Adviser on Legislative Affairs, Karunwi Oladapo; Special Adviser on Tourism, Segun Ologunleko and Special Adviser to Ekiti Speaker, Wole Olujobi.

Cultural ambassadors such as Miss Ekiti, Oluyemi Omotomilola and Miss Oodua, Abiola Adebayo, added glamour to the occasion.

Two guests, however, made a dramatic entry into the lecture hall. The first was the former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Senator, Femi Kila, who followed Governor Fayemi to the high table and sat directly behind him. He

• The celebrator assisted by his wife, Yemisi (red top); Erelu Bisi (6th right); Governor Fayemi and other guests to cut the cake

From right: Pa Stephen Bamidemi; Mr Femi Bamidele and Mrs Sade Oladiran

• Mrs Olayinka

From right: Oluyin of Iyin-Ekiti, Oba Ademola Ajakaye, his Olori and Alaye of Alaye, Oba Emmanuel Aladejare

• Evangelist Olumilua (right) and Chief Alake

then left about 10 minutes later after a brief consultation with Dr Fayemi.

The second dignitary was former Governor Ayo Fayose, who strolled in after Bishop Ajakaye had delivered the closing prayer.

The thanksgiving service, which held a day after, also had in attendance Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Mrs Funmilayo Olayinka. Others included former Governor Bamidele Olumilua; Alaaye of Efon Kingdom, Oba

Adesanya Aladejare; Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr Adio Folayan; Chairman, Efon Local Government, Chief Joel Omoniyi; Chief Joseph Alake Erungbua; Hon Dele Olowoyeye; Hon Kayode Oluwatayo and Hon Smart Akin Oyeyemi.

Mrs Fayemi, who led guests in the toast to the celebrator, was Bamidele’s school mate at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU). She said the country needed good leaders who can serve and revive the edu-

• Hon Faparusi

cation, health and other sectors.

When it was time for testimonies about Bamidele, the elated Oba Ajakaye said: “Last year, I was in Lagos to celebrate his 47th birthday. But today, we are in Ekiti, the land of honour.” The monarch congratulated Bamidele, praying to God to guide him as he discharges his new assignment.

“Bamidele is already making waves in the House of Representatives, unlike legis-

•Otunba Adebayo

lators who spent four years in the House sleeping”, said the monarch, who added: “Next year, when we celebrate his 49th birthday, we will be celebrating his achievements as a parliamentarian.”

This was echoed by Governor Fayemi, who poured encomiums on the Iyin-Ekitiborn politician. “We have come to celebrate a man of destiny who has dedicated his life to the service of the people,” he said.

The governor recalled that Bamidele and him had both moved from activism to politics, noting that there is no dichotomy between the two engagements.

“Bamidele’s life is a clear testimony. The values that took me into activism have sustained me in activism and the same values which have taken me into politics have sustained me in politics”, he added, emphasising the core virtues of integrity and service to the people.

Fayemi also said: “We are proud of him. All of us see him on the television these days speaking for us in Ekiti.

It is not an accident that he is the spokesman for the House, the first position to be announced. It is because you cannot hide a talent. Even, if you hide it, others would discover it. He has been doing the job with characteristic candour and professionalism”.

An excited Bamidele thanked the guests. He spoke with passion on Ekiti, recalling that Fayemi inherited almost a failed state. “We should intensify the collective rescue mission,” he added.

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

33

SOCIETY Members of the Women Wing of Christian Association of Nigeria (WOWICAN) Bariga Chapter were overjoyed last Saturday as the association held its inauguration and the induction of new officers. OSAS ROBERT was there.

A day of jubilation I

T was indeed, a joyful day last Saturday, for Christian women in Bariga, Lagos at the inauguration of new executives of the Bariga chapter of Women Wing of Christian Association of Nigeria (WOWICAN).

Guests had begun to gather at the Christ the King Anglican Communion, Bariga as early as 10am for an event slated for 11am, which however, did not take off until about two hours later. The delay was due to a serious traffic jam that resulted from the Lagos State monthly Environmental Sanitation exercise. Everyone seemed to have left their homes about the same time only to be held in a traffic gridlock.

The guests were gorgeously dressed in blue and white attires with majority of the women splendid in their Iro and Buba with expertly styled head ties popularly known as Gele. Aside, the ministers and other few men in attendance were not disappointing in their dressing; they shown among the women who constituted the larger percentage of those in the hall as the occasion was theirs.

The event took off with a procession of ministers who were accompanied by the new executives into the church. They

•A cross section of the executives

joined their voices with those of the choirs who sang the entrance hymn: "Gbogbo aiye gbe Jesu ga," sonorously as they filed in to take their seats.

With the opening prayer said by Rev Isaac Oyenbueze, the moderators Pastor Moses Olutoye and Rev Gbenga Ogunbodede called special guests to the high table.

Present at the occasion were Senior Apostle Abiola (JP), who was the father of the day; special guest of honour, Rev (Mrs) Nkiru Esho; guest speaker, Rev

ROYAL VISIT

•Kwara State Governor, Alhaji Abdulfatah Ahmed (right) and Emir of Ilorin Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari

(Mrs) A. Balogun Tayo; General Secretary Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Bariga chapter, Rev Idris Bosun; Chairman, CAN Bariga Chapter, Rev J. A. Ogunbodede; its counterpart from Somolu, Pastor Oguntayo; Grand Patron WOWICAN Bariga, Babatope Abe; father of Lagos State CAN public relation officer, Rev. (Dr.) C. O. Alade, among others.

In a welcome address by the chairperson, Mrs Shola Banjo, a brief history of how WOWICAN Bariga chapter started

was mentioned. According to her, "The journey started from Somolu Local Government. Somolu WOWICAN was inaugurated in 1995 at Shepherdhill Baptist Church, Obanikoro, Lagos in 2000 after the creation of Kosofe Local Government.

Kosofe was carved out of Somolu WOWICAN. In December 2006, Bariga WOWICAN was also separated from Somolu WOWICAN-you can see that Somolu is the mother of all," she narrated.

Ogunbodede, said: "The purpose of the gathering is to dedicate the new officers of WOWICAN, Bariga."

While the choir was singing their special anthem in which they enjoined all to come and praise the Lord, the women went to the altar to give thanks to God. The first lesson was taken from the book of Romans 13, verse one to the end and read by Rev Bosun. The second lesson was from the Acts of Apostles chapter six, verse 1-18 read by Mrs Banjo.

Delivering the sermon Rev (Mrs) Tayo spoke on love and good works. She said: "Let God sow and water the seed in your life and as you go out your good works will follow you."

Rev Ogunbodede inaugurated the officers and asked God to grant them the grace to give themselves wholly to their new task and service. He presented them with Bibles while the patrons and matrons of WOWICAN were also presented awards by the Vicar of the host church Rev Ayanlere.

The ceremony came to an end with the procession of ministers and the new officers.

PRESS BRIEFING

• From left: CEO and Co-ordinator, Aging with Grace and Dignity, Mrs Abiodun Oduwole; Chairman, Dr Onaolapo Soleye and Dr Adetoun Agbe-Davies, at a briefing on Aging with Grace and Dignity in Lagos

END OF NTA /BOLA KADIRI RAMADAN LECTURE HELD AT NTA PREMISES, TEJUOSO, LAGOS

•National Vice-President, Zumratul Islamiyyah Society of Nigeria, Alhaji Bashir Lawal; a guest and Justice Lawal Akapo

•Lagos State University (LASU) Senior Lecturer, Dr Lateef Adetona flanked by National VicePresident, National Council of Muslim Youth organisations (NACOMYO), Alhaji Mustafa Balogun (left) and Missioner, Aenu Rahman Society of Nigeria, Sheikh Muslim Kalejaiye

34

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

AGRO-BUSINESS

Lagos will empower youth on food production, says perm sec T HE Lagos State Government will empower young entrepreneurs to increase production of locally grown food, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture Dr Yakubu Bashorun has said.

Speaking during the Agric – Youth Empower Scheme (YES) Summer School Programme for secondary school pupils in Lagos, Bashorun said the government would expand farms through youth entrepreneurship in farm product sales, branding, marketing and distribution as well as local food processing innovations.

Stories by Daniel Essiet, Agric Correspondent

According to him, Agric YES is a comprehensive strategy to maximise economic development opportunities and renew youths interest in agriculture.

Through this initiative, he said, the scheme would increase regional farm-food system, access to credit for farm businesses and distribution of farm products.

Bashorun said Agric YES empowers young farmers to choose healthy, affordable, locallygrown food, adding that the programme is good for farmers and the government.

He said the government is committed to funding and supporting the programme to bolster market opportunities for agricultural products and food to grow the economy.

The Commissioner for Educa-

tion, Mrs Olayinka Oladunjoye, said today’s agricultural students are versed theoretically, but less practically skilled, adding that they lack the required knowledge for solving problem.

This, she noted, is why the government through the Ministry of Agriculture and Co-operatives initiated the Agric-Yes Summer School to provide Secondary School Students with the technical skill that will be administered through on-farm practical teaching and field demonstrations.

Mrs Oladunjoye said AGRICYES was embarked upon a few years ago as a means of social protection aimed at empowering youths in modern agricultural techniques.

She emphasised that products from the scheme which range from fresh eggs, fresh fish and tonnes of cabbage, sweet melon, water melon, cucumber, pepper and assorted leafy vegetables are already being sold in the state.

Mrs Oladunjoye reiterated that food security is one of the cardinal programmes of the administration led by Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola (SAN)

and assured that the Education Ministry will continue to support the Ministry of Agriculture and Co-operatives, especially in encouraging students for the programme. She, however, implores the pioneer students to make optimal use of the advantage given to them.

Permanent Secretary Ministry of Education, Mrs. Omolara Erogbogbo, praised the citizenry for embracing government’s effort at creating opportunities and generating wealth to empower the youth through agricultural enterprise. She said an effort made on Agric-Yes being brought down to secondary school level as agriculture is a core subject in the school curriculum.

Mrs Erogbogbo explained that apart from the economic activities and jobs to be generated, the programme also constitutes an important strategy in getting the youths engaged, which is a major means of minimising juvenile delinquency. She urged the pupils to make the training useful for themselves and the society.

The yearly two-week training holds during the long vacation.

Areas of training include livestock, vegetables, snail production and fisheries.

Cross River plans ID cards for farmers

C

• Mrs Oladunjoye and Dr. Basorun at the event

Farmers decry dearth of fertiliser FARMERS in Maiduguri, Borno State, and its environ have appealed to the government to assist them with fertiliser.

Some of the farmers expressed frustration over their inability to obtain the commodity at government-subsidised rates.

A farmer in Jere, Mallam Isyaku Mamman, said he tried to secure the nutrients without success.

“My crops are shrinking because they need fertiliser, but the commodity is not forthcoming.

“We went to enquire about the fertiliser at the state Ministry of Agriculture only to be directed to the secretariat of the local government council,” Mamman said.

He added that when he and other farmers got to the secretariat, they were asked to go to their various wards for the commodity.

“We were asked to go to our wards, but when we got there, we

were shocked to discover that government had provided only 10 bags for distribution at each ward.

“This is grossly inadequate because it cannot go round the farmers.”

Mamman expressed dismay that most farmers had been forced to buy the commodity in the black market at exorbitant rates.

“The government rate is between N1,800 and N2,000 per bag of NPK and Urea brands of fertiliser, but at the black market the price is almost double.

“The government is not serious about making the commodity available to farmers at the grassroots.”

Another farmer, Zakari Ahmed, echoed Mamman, saying the government made promises of providing fertilisers to farmers without fulfilling such.

“Year in year out they come to

us and make empty promises of providing fertiliser at a cheap rate but they always fail to fulfil the promises.

“Even when they supply the commodity, it always arrives very late when it is no longer useful to farmers.”

The Secretary of the agriculture ministry, Alhaji Zanna Konduga, denied the farmers’ allegations.

Konduga said the government distributed no fewer than 10 truck-loads of the commodity to each local government for onward distribution to farmers.

“The fertiliser were highly subsidised by the government in its bid to ensure bumper harvest this year.

“In addition, a committee was set up by the government to ensure that the commodity gets to real farmers in the villages.”

Benue secures N1b loan from agric fund

T

HE Benue State government has secured N1 billion loans from the N200 billion Agriculture Development Fund (ADF) provided by the Federal Government, Governor Gabriel Suswam has said.

Suswam told reporters in Abuja that the loan would be made available to farmers to boost the production of cash crops.

“We have secured the N1 billion agric development fund from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

We urge our farmers to come forward to take the loan as the con-

ditions are very soft.

“We have the money and we have tractors. All that is needed is for serious minded farmers to come forward to get the loan,’’ he said.

He noted that state has the land and all that was required to alleviate poverty through the development of agriculture.

The governor said the government had provided input, such as seedlings and fertilisers and urged farmers to make judicious use of them to increase their farm yield.

The governor promised that his administration would sell tractors to farmers at subsidised rate.

“There are a lot of tractors available for farmers at very low price in the Ministry of Agriculture; all the farmers needed to do is to go there,” he said.

Suswam said being an agrarian state, it was the responsibility of the government to encourage farmers to boost food production.

He said apart from agriculture, his administration was doing a lot to provide roads and water in the rural areas.

ROSS River State Commissioner of Agriculture Dr Sandy Onor has approved the registration and issuance of identity cards to farmers.

Onor said the exercise would enable his ministry to compile a comprehensive data of farmers in the state.

“The ID card will ensure that there is an authentic statistical data for genuine farmers,’’ he added.

The commissioner said the exercise would also ensure that farmers receive adequate government incentives for greater productivity.

In his report, the Director of Agricultural Extension Services, Mr Francis Neku, said the department had “successfully produced the farmers’ registration forms”.

According to him, a total of 1,122 farmers had been registered and 1,452 identity cards produced.

Edo to spend N87m on Fadama III project

T

HE Edo State Government is disbursing N87 million to farmers under the National Fadama III project.

The Commissioner for Agriculture, Mr Abdul Oroh, who made this known during a tour of some Fadama projects, reiterated the government’s determination to support the project.

He said after being satisfied with the progress recorded in the release of the fund under the first phase, the government is now set to release N87 million for the second phase.

Oroh said the funds would help to expand the projects on ground and give more support to existing ones.

It will be recalled that the state had placed an embargo on further disbursement of funds soon after the release of the first phase in March last year.

Oroh said it was done to ensure that fund released was judiciously applied to its intended purpose.

“The reason we decided to come to the field is to be able to review what we have done with the fund disbursed in the first phase and I can tell you that I am satisfied with what I have seen on ground.

“I can tell you that I am convinced that we should go ahead and disburse more money to the various co-operatives under the Third National Fadama Project in the state.”

The Commissioner, while enumerating the benefits of the project to the state, said: “It is an interesting project which the youths are the main beneficiary.

It would discourage them from crime and other social vices.

“We are in the process of achieving the objective of Fadama III project. The objective is to improve on the income of the farming families in the state and also sustain the growth of agriculture in the state,” he stated.

Reiterating the government’s commitment to the project, Oroh said the state would not default in the payment of its financial obligation while payment of counterpart funding of the council areas in the state would be deducted at source.

The Commissioner was taken round some of the Fadama projects by officials some state officials, including the state’s Project Coordinator, Mr Richard Aviomoh, and the Southsouth Zonal Project Coordinator, Dr Isaiah Forby.

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

35

AGRO-BUSINESS

Expert warns against toxic seafood F ISHES in the Niger Delta and other coastal waters across the country are exposed to toxic chemicals and radiation from oil spill, a professor of fisheries, has warned.

Prof Martins Anetekhai, who is of the Lagos State University (LASU), said seafood from this area need to be tested for possible contamination.

In an interview with The Nation, Anetekhai said the seafood may be exposed to different chemicals, which concentrate in animals.

The concentrations of these pollutants, he noted, increase higher in the food chain, as animals absorb the toxins.

His concern is that contaminated seafood may find its

By Daniel Essiet, Agric Correspondent

way into homes.

He said the dispersed oil can spread quickly, collect on the seabed, where it becomes food for microscopic organisms at the bottom of the food chain and, eventually, ends up in shellfish and other organisms.

He said also that what the dispersants and the oil leave behind can kill fishes.

According to him, very small drops of oil are capable of moving away from the surface of the water and dispersing in the water column.

Anetekhai called for a baseline study to examine

health of fish after oil spillage and dispersal of oil could affect the seafood industry.

According to him, the seafood may not be safe since they are exposed to surface waters.

Scientists say that over time, eating seafood contaminated with chemicals could cause anaemia, cancer and even birth defects.

An Amnesty International report said long delays in clearing up after oil spills in the Niger Delta has led to damage of the soil. According to it, hundreds of thousands of people are affected, particularly the poorest and those who rely on traditional livelihoods such as fishing and agriculture.

Oil spills on land destroy

Why Zamfara is home of agric

By Daniel Essiet, Agric Correspondent

Z

• Antehkai

crops and damage the quality and productivity of soil that communities use for farming, while oil in water damages fisheries and contaminates water that people use for drinking and other domestic uses.

• From left: Sector Head, Agro-Allied and Export, Ocean Bank, Mr Eyitayo Quadri and Head, Development Finance, Felix Oyakhamoh at an event in Lagos.

FCT emir urges govt to supply farmers with agric HE Emir of Bwari in the and their subjects, who are Federal Capital Terriinput in good time unable to fend for themtory (FCT), Alhaji Musa selves, including those on

T

Ijakoro, has appealed to the government to supply fertilisers, pesticides, herbicides and other input to farmers in good time to boost food self-sufficiency in the country.

Ijakoro also urged the government to provide all the necessary support, including technical and financial aid, to farmers to motivate them.

He further stressed the need for collaboration among the three tiers of

government, the private sector and farmers to boost agricultural production.

“I cannot see the reason why government is neglecting the agricultural sector which, I am sure, will sustain our economy as it was the case in the past,” the emir said.

“We help them as guarantors and stand as sureties for the farmers to obtain tractors either on loan or to own the tractors on hire purchase.

“We are also major stake-

holders in farming as we have large farms. He asked government and other stakeholders to seek advice on how to develop the sector.

“As people who are close to the farmers, we also advise the government on what should be done to develop agriculture in Nigeria.”

According to the emir, traditional rulers are medium or large scale farmers, who farm for themselves

journey or those who are affected by disasters or epidemics.

“Really, apart from all these, traditional rulers also contribute to the development of the agricultural sector through settling disputes between the Fulani herdsmen and farmers.’’

“The agricultural extension officers work with us as we assemble farmers for them to give lectures on new developments in agriculture,” he added.

Insurance firm assures farmers of adequate cover against disasters

T

HE Nigerian Agricultural Insurance Corporation (NAIC) has assured farmers of adequate protection of their farmlands against natural disasters.

The corporation’s Head of Operations in Ekiti State, Mr Isaac Arowosafe, said most farmers, state and local governments appreciate the importance of the corporation in boosting agriculture.

Arowosafe said NAIC had since its inception in 1987 provided “specialised insurance cover” to farmers, noting that the organisation is

the only farmer-based insurance company in Nigeria”.

He explained that the Federal Government’s involvement in the promotion of agriculture, especially in the states, had been of little effect, because “most of the states and their farmers have not been co-operative enough in supporting government’s policies and programmes.”

Arowosafe recalled that before NAIC was formed, farmers had suffered several losses on their investments on seasonally, with no

means of going back to production.

He said: “Such farmers, having lost hope on farming, started moving to cities in droves to search for easy means of livelihood. The situation led continually to the depletion of the farming populace, which was a clear threat to food security.

“The Federal Government, out of benevolence, therefore, took a careful look at the unfortunate situation and decided to establish NAIC to address the dangerous trend.”

Arowosafe explained that with the presence of NAIC offices in all the 36 states, farmers would no longer face the challenges of stringent collateral that were usually demanded by banks before granting them loans.

“Although we don’t give out loans to farmers, we are ready guarantors and insurance company of such loans, once farmers seek our assistance.

“Besides, we also do stand between them and emergencies, such as natural disasters on their farm,” he added.

AMFARA State prides itself as the “home of agriculture’’and its government, has over the years, consistently made concerted efforts in making the state’s economy truly agrarian Over 80 per cent of the people are engaged in various forms of farming.

With vast arable land, nearly four million hectares of land are cultivated. This represents about 30 per cent of the total land area. About 80 per cent of the population are predominantly farmers. Agriculture in the state covers plant crops, raising livestock, and livestock products. Diversification and growth in types of plant crops and livestock breeding have increased over time.

The state is blessed with a large variety of crops, which provide foodstuff, industrial raw materials and employment opportunities to the people. Crops grown in the state include rice, wheat, tomatoes and other food and cash crops. These investments by the state ensure yearly farming, in spite of adverse climatic conditions. Methods of cultivation have also improved and the government continues to support the development of more efficient forms of irrigation, and mechanical equipment for processing and harvesting crops. Livestock production is also a vibrant agricultural sub-sector in the economy of the state.

The state has a livestock population of nearly six million comprising over one million cattle; 857,000 sheep; over two million goats; 1.7 million poultry and about 18,000, 21,000 and 46,000 horses, camels and donkeys.

There are 16 forest reserves, one game reserve, two lakes and one reservoir with an estimated surface area of 8,000 ha.

Given the ecological problem of desertification, particularly in the northern parts of the state, forestry activities, factors are quite important. Its strategy for industrialisation is • Governor Yari based on agricultural development.

The government has embarked on a lot of programmes to transform farming in the state and develop it into commercial agriculture.

The government, through the Zamfara State Comprehensive Agricultural Revolution Programme (ZACAREP), is giving priority attention to the state’s agricultural development.

Under the programme, farmers are registered and given incentives in terms of agricultural input, such as fertilisers, agro chemicals, pesticides, tractors and other mechanised farm implements, as well as improved seedlings, among others.

Farmers obtain the input at highly subsidised rates and amke an initial payment of only 25 per cent of the fees, while the balance is paid after harvests – either in cash or with agricultural produce. Apart from the improved seeds, about 612,194 litres of agro-chemicals, including fungicides, herbicides and seed-dressing chemicals, were distributed to the farmers to boost production. The state government also offers free tractor services to farmers as a pragmatic approach to promoting mechanised agriculture and increasing agricultural yields in the state. Apart from providing incentives to the farmers, the government has put in place a policy to buy excess agricultural produce from farmers during harvest seasons at good prices to give the farmers value for their labour. Apart from improved seeds, agro-chemicals are distributed to farmers to boost production.

The state government similarly offers free tractor services to farmers to promote mechanised agriculture and increasing agricultural yields in the state.

In addition, the government buys excess agricultural produce from farmers during harvest at reasonable prices to give the farmers value for their labour.

This is stored in silos as strategic reserves that the state could fall back upon during emergencies.

The state has also recorded some giant strides in fish, poultry and livestock production, while the active participation of its farmers in the World Bank-assisted Fadama III programme has boost agriculture in the state.

36

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

COMMENTARY

A

RABS, in spite of what may be their misdemeanour today, are highly gifted in prose and poetry. Their literary prowess is unsurpassable as they combine the heritage of the Hellenes with that of Islamic treasures. In what has become an axiom, one poet among them once succinctly but philosophically put across the following couplet for the benefit of mankind: “Human sense channelizes the course of destiny: whoever misapplies his sense and blocks that course should not blame destiny for his or her misfortune”.

The world is restive today not just for its bereavement of peace but also for the hopelessness which that bereavement entails. From Wellington in Australia to Helsinki in Finland; from Anchorage in America to Hiroshima in Japan; from Beijing in China to El Salado in Argentina and from Casablanca in Morocco to Antananarivo in Madagascar there is no peace and there is no hope for it. Nigeria’s share of this calamity is as enormous as that of the United States of America. Bomb blasts or massacre today, flood or hurricane tomorrow. Yet, both countries are comrades in arms.

A Yoruba adage poses a relevant challenge when it states thus: “when a kid falls down he looks forward for rescue but when an adult falls down he looks backwards to assess the cause of his fall”.

That adage is worth studying by the rightthinking men who are capable of asking the right question: when and where did we start taking wrong steps?

Venturing a little back into the recent past, one will discover that the world was not anything near the current prevailing barbarism even about 50 years ago. The occurrences which piloted the world to this stage can be best described as ‘NATURE’S REBELLION’ against man.

And that rebellion could only have emanated from man’s own invention.

People who are over 60 years of age will testify to the fact that this same world of ours had once been in perfect serenity with harmony and concord even as peace was generally taken for granted.

The main problem with man is to assume that the world is meant for him alone. He hardly believes that all other creatures like soil; animals, insects, vegetations, waters, air and others known and unknown also have a right to claim a space in the tapestry of the wonderful web called the world. Yes, man is made the captain of this web but that does not give him the absolute right to re-write the constitution of the world by tampering with the nature of other creatures.

In an audacious attempt to affirm his supremacy over all other creatures man has gone deep into the firmament of transgression. He does not only change the courses of rivers and distort the nature of vegetations he also tampers with the flow of air just as he rebrands the nature of certain animals and trees in his so-called scientific experiments adopted to further the course of his capitalist project. Thus, for many years, other creatures have tolerated the dominance of man for as long as that dominance remained positively tolerable. But when it became too negative to bear, they collaborated to rebel against the oppression of man by fighting back in a way that beat the imagination of the oppressor. Today, whether through the tsunami in Japan or the wild fire in Australia, or earthquake in Haiti and Iran or hurricane in America and Canada, the ecosystem is angrily revolting not only against the transgression of man over it but also against man’s inhumanity to fellow man.

With his glorification of greed, man has relegated justice to the background by rendering truth irrelevant and by deifying an agent of trade called money. This has led to crowning money as the global ‘god’ which virtually everybody on earth is now worshipping directly or indirectly.

Capitalism as a major weapon of Satan has become the finger of destiny with which the success or failure of everything is measured.

The world is restive today not because some people have gone berserk by choosing the satanic course of barbarism, vandalism and terrorism but because such people were created by injustice through capitalism. If the truth must be told, manipulation of world serenity for the purpose of capitalism is the root cause of restiveness in the world today. And anybody who wants to change the status

FEMI ABBAS ON Femabbas@yahoo.com 08051101861

Nature’s rebellion

• The Quran quo must be ready to return to the old order by restoring justice and shedding the toga of satanic supremacy. At the inception of the world, the Almighty Allah had called it a divine trust and he had called for volunteers among His creatures to keep its custody. This is contained in Qur’an chapter 33, verse 172 thus: ‘’We offered the trust to the heavens, to the earth and to the mountains but they all refused to bear it as they were afraid of it. However, man, out of arrogance and ignorance undertook to keep custody of it but he has since proved to be foolishly unjust”.

The injustice in the world today is not only that of man to man but also of man to nature. The search for the wealth in the belly of the soil by all means and without any consideration for the pain which the soil itself can suffer in the process is a major cause of nature’s rebellion against man.

Excavation of minerals, fossils and antiquities as well as seeking for more space through the expansion of the earth by reclamation of swampy areas around oceans and seas continues to bring untold hardship to man and the ecosystem even as man persists on these activities.

Earthquakes, cyclone, hurricane and tsunami which are now called natural disasters are some of the results of those activities. If the ecosystem had done to man only one percent of what man has been doing to it the world would have for long forgotten any existence of man on earth.

Yet, without minding the consequences, man continues to invent elements of destruction in form of human and material forces by ventilating the avenue for bringing the world to an abrupt end only to turn round and blame nature or human terrorism for it. This world was quite orderly and virtuous until the capitalists

introduced into it the obstructions that turned it upside down and brought restiveness to the fore. For instance from time immemorial, mothers had been breastfeeding their infants and this natural upbringing had. It took the capitalists to introduce processed animal milk to the world which was rebranded baby formula.

This was backed up with unprecedented adverts and commercial campaigns that tricked mothers into accepting it. For about two generations of almost 50 years human infants were forced to take animal milk.

And by the time they all grew up to be men and women the die had been cast.

Kindness had disappeared from the surface of the earth, dignity had vamoosed and man’s humanity for man had become flakes of history. Children of yesterday began to behave like animals of today.

Now, there are men but no husbands. There are women but no wives. There are children bearers but no parents. Couples began to live like co-tenants. There are certificates but no knowledge.

Responsibility has taken flight even as children began to treat their aged parents like outcasts thereby reducing the once highly valued cultures into unnecessary luxury. Genuine workers are not adequately remunerated. Governance has become a trade that must yield profit for the rulers even as governments are trading officially in lottery and other forms of usury thereby giving the impression that in making money, only the end is capable of justifying the means. Here in Nigeria about 97% of the oil wealth is shared among only three percent of the population while 97% of the entire populace wallow in abject poverty in their struggle for a share of the 3% wealth left for them by the governing cabal who propound obnoxious policies to create monster for themselves with which to hound perceived enemies. And as a result of such policies they have become prisoners in their own houses and environments even as they now run away from their own shadows.

All these were compounded by the introduction of yet some other terribly devastating elements like cocaine, marijuana, heroin and others of the like used by the new human species to charge themselves into untamable wildness. Thus, today, the world is at war with itself as ubiquity of drug barons, drug addicts, hired killers, armed robbers political thugs, economic vandals and suicide bombers come to the prowl. Even religion, the once exclusive niche is not spared.

More than 90% of today’s clerics across faiths are shams merely hiding under the cloak of religion to extort money from their sheepish followers and exploit them to marrow. Where are we going from

‘Children of yesterday began to behave like animals of today. Now, there are men but no husbands. There are women but no wives.

There are children bearers but no parents.

Couples began to live like co-tenants. There are certificates but no knowledge.

Responsibility has taken flight even as children began to treat their aged parents like outcasts thereby reducing the once highly valued cultures into unnecessary luxury’

here?

Prophet Muhammad (SAW) had admonished Muslims against all these vices some of which he described as signs of the last days. That prophesy is vividly reflected in the poem of another Arab poet who said: ‘’This is the time against which we had been warned true the transmission of Ubayy Bn Ka’b and Abdullah Bn Mas’ud; a time in which the truth would be consigned to the refuse bin while falsehood and treachery would be held aloft; Were this time to linger for long, humanity would zoom into a situation whereby no one would cry over the death of a dear one and no joy would be expressed over the birth of a new baby’’.

Now, in Nigeria, we have boxed ourselves into one corner of a ring where the ruled can no longer believe the rulers because governance is based on falsehood and rulers are perceived as sheer liars. We are in a period where betrayal rather than trust is the order of the day and those in charge of the treasury are the real thieves stealing people’s money kept in that treasury and giving a part of the loot to religious sanctuaries. Those charged with the nation’s security are the greatest threat to the same security. Or how else can we classify our so called police? Ours is a nation where the infrastructure provided by the colonialists over 50 years ago cannot be maintained despite the enormous wealth at our disposal. Billions of naira is budgeted every year for electricity, road network, railway, aviation, agriculture, and other vital projects. Yet there are no such projects in place and the budgeted money is never returned to the treasury.

Over 70% of what is supposed to constitute the workforce for the nation is idle. Those who had spent their vital youthful years serving the nation are left to die of hunger and wretchedness in their old age as their pension is being pocketed by some fictitious official fingers.

We are in an era where the lesson to be taught to the youth is public mutual abuse by certain shameless former rulers of this country who call each other a fool. The situation in the Southwest is the worst.

Here is a region where language and culture have been lost in the name of civilisation. Majority of those who went through schools can no longer speak their mother tongue.

Yet they are embarrassingly backward in English language to which they purportedly lost their natural language. No moral lessons on radio and television stations, no cultural values in private homes and public places. All that matters is the money that can be made and not how such money is made. In this, what legacy can the present generation leave behind? And what heritage can the future generations expect from criminal prisoners who are met on their return from prisons by coparty stalwarts with songs and dances?

Whenever we hear of bomb blasts and suicide bombings nowadays we get alarmed and terribly agitated forgetting that that these are the fruits of the seed which some leaders of yesteryears had planted in the soil of Nigeria. Or have we all forgotten that the very first bomb blast that killed a Nigerian (Dele Giwa) was linked to government quarters? What else is expected of the experts who carried out that dastardly act? Besides utilising that skill for their own purpose having served their employers meritoriously can’t they pass their expertise to some other Nigerians who might need such skill? The lamentations by some people today on the hearing of bomb blasts, is an indication that Nigerians are either forgetful or mischievous. By and large it should not be expected that prayers for which many people have called will solve any criminal or negligent problem. Who are those to pray? What is their record before Allah?

The panacea for criminal acts is to desist from criminal acts. Thousands of years of prayers against crimes by criminals can never bring succour to this world. Most of those perceived as men of God who will want to champion prayers to God are more covertly criminal than those actually perceived as criminals. They are rather men of Satan than men of God. Allah has strongly warned thus: Surely Allah will not change the situation of a nation or a community until they themselves have reneged from evil acts and if Allah intends punishment for a nation or a community no one can repel it except a change for the better by the nation or community in question.... Q. 13: 11.

THE NATION

38

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

CRIME WATCH

Why I lied against police commissioner, by lawyer

A

LAWYER, Mr Austin Nwabufo has explained how he conspired with one of his clients to blackmail the Commissioner of Police in charge of Force Provost, Mrs Sherifat Disu with alleged threats to life and intimidation.

Nwabufo, who claimed that he did not know that all his client, Mr Jonathan Chibuzor Okoli, told him was a lie, said he regrets his involvement in a petition against a law-abiding and innocent citizen of Nigeria. He offered his apologies.

It was gathered that the CP’s son, one Ajibade, is contesting the control of the Aguiyi Ironsi International Market, Mushin, Lagos, with Okoli.

Sources told Newsextra that Okoli blackmailed the CP in order to get her son to step down for him.

A retraction letter of all the petitions from the lawyer’s chambers to the Inspector-General of Police, Mr Hafis Ringim, reads: “It is our intention to retract and debunk all facts contained in these petitions as we have since found out that Mr Jonathan Okoli fed us with manufactured evidence filled with lies and half truths bordering on human rights abuse against Mrs Sherifat Disu.

“The truth of the matter was that Disu was never involved in any of the crises that engulfed the market which led to any abuse of anybody’s human rights, particularly rights of persons showing one as dead and several others injured. We regret presenting the said petition to your office as we never knew Mr Okoli very well before acting and representing him in the said petition. We have since discovered after a careful investigation that Mr Okoli is a dubious character who has been

T

HE Benue State Police Command is on the trail of a fleeing police constable, who is said to be a member of a cult group in Gwer Local Government Area of the state.

The police command said it has impounded a J5 with about 2,000 wrappers valued at over N5m.

The state Commissioner of Police Emmanuel Obiako told reporters in his office in Makurdi, the state capital, that the command arrested seven suspected cultists in Aliade, in Gwer Local Government Area.

He said the arrest followed the death of someone allegedly murdered by suspected cultists on August 9.

The suspects are: Toochukwu Ezeokorie, Thomas Iti and Basil Isah.

They have denied involvement.

Toochukwu claimed to be a

Stories by Jude Isiguzo

unjustly maligning Mrs Disu.”

Nwabufo noted that the retraction has become necessary after hearing from Okoli that the facts he fed him with as his solicitor were manufactured by him to destroy the career of Disu.

He explained that Okoli promised to make him rich if he could assist him (Okoli) get rid of the Commissioner of Police.

“This promise,” he said, “will be fulfilled after I have written the petition. He told me that I do not know what he is realising from there, which is why Ajibade wants to take over from him. He even said he wants to spend about 11 years and had all the criminals that were sent out of Oshodi Market by Governor Babatunde Fashola. He further said that he is now in charge of all those criminals and that those criminals are assisting him to raid the market and that they are ready to do and undo. I knew that what he was telling me at this stage was becoming bloody. I reasoned thus: If you are aware of the coup or an attempt to kill somebody in leadership and you refuse to disclose it, you are now a part f it.

So, I am now making it clear that whatever happens thereafter the press conference, I am not a part of it and I am regretting my insincerity. At this stage, I intend to inform the whole world that Jonathan Chibuzor Okoli, the so-called president of the market, is not a character to be trusted and anybody who has never read the facts in the papers should believe him. This is because more dangers are coming into that market; he made many cynical remarks even against

•Ringim

•Nwabufo

The truth of the matter was that Disu was never involved in any of the crises that engulfed the market which led to any abuse of anybody’s human rights particularly rights of persons showing one as dead and several others injured. We regret presenting the said petition to your office as we never knew Mr Okoli very well before acting and representing him in the said petition the leadership of the Governor of Lagos State and even other public and prominent people.

Bearing in mind that he does not have those peripheral powers he claims to have. I want to exonerate myself from any criminal re-

sponsibility that may arise from him in the years after, for the sake of posterity and to clear my image against any tarnish that may come thereinafter.”

Police trail constable over alleged Engage youths to cult membership reduce crime

beer distributor; Thomas and Isah said they were councilor and inter-state driver.

Obiako said his men recovered stolen wrappers and other wares that some traders bought from suspected robbers.

He said: “The J5 was conveying the goods, heading to Onitsha from Makurdi when it was attacked by robbers in Adoka, Otukpo Local Government Area. The robbers stole the goods and later sold them.”

The J5 was conveying the goods, heading to Onitsha from Makurdi when it was attacked by robbers in Adoka, Otukpo Local Government Area. The robbers stole the goods and later sold them

Obiako said policemen trailed the buyers and arrested them.

One of the buyers is Eze Ignatius, who claimed that he bought the wrappers from a warehouse, opposite a new generation bank on Otukpo Road, Makurdi.

Faith Oketa, a resident of Otukpo Local Government Area, claimed that she bought 1,000 pieces of the items for N1.2m.

Obiako said the police were on the trail of the robbers in Adikpo, Kwande Local Government Area, where they allegedly damaged a police vehicle when they were being chased after an operation.

He added that one of the robbers was arrested with arms and ammunition.

Expert advocates tougher counter-terrorism measures

L

AST Friday’s bombing of the United Nations Building in Abuja has been described as an unacceptable security breach.

“This is one terrorist attack that should have been prevented because of the negative reverberation around the world,” the President of the Association of Industrial Security and Safety Operators of Nigeria (AISSON), Dr Ona Ekhomu said.

Condemning the suicide bombing incident as a barbaric act of

mass murder,, Dr. Ekhomu said that since a credible threat against the UN building was previously received, more robust access control measures should have been put in place to contain the improvised explosive device (IED) threat.

Ekhomu said security measures to counter terrorist attacks must go beyond procedural rituals that provide psychological dissuasion to the consumer of the service. The counter-measures must be robust and able to withstand a determined

In order to save our country from further attacks and embarrassments, the government must involve in epistemic community of security in designing solution to our problem. Security provides the environment for politics. So, it is a necessary condition for governance

threat such as a suicide attack.

Said he: “Routine and perfunctory security measures such as searching of vehicle booth are grossly inadequate to contain the Boko Haram threat. In order to address the loss in mentality-suicide threat, stringent physical security measures must be designed, rehearsed and implemented.”

United Nations agencies carry out important humanitarian services in Nigeria which touch millions of lives of the truly needy.

“It is immoral and evidently unjust for the Bokites to target them,” he said.

The security expert urged the management of the UN not to be discouraged by this ungodly act and remain resolved in carrying out its mission of providing a better life for less-privileged Nigerians.

Dr. Ekhomu called for more stringent security measures to protect public buildings, diplomatic mis-

sions around the country.

He called for vulnerability assessment of all government buildings to strengthen them against terrorist attacks.

He further emphasised that the Federal Government must see security planning and design as a matter of a cognitive imperative and not one of the political expediency.

“In order to save our country from further attacks and embarrassments, the government must involve in epistemic community of security in designing solution to our problem. Security provides the environment for politics. So, it is a necessary condition for governance.”

Dr. Ekhomu urged Nigerians to become more security conscious as this scourge of terrorism was growing by the day and claiming innocent lives. He said average Nigerians must be engaged in countering the terrorist threat.

G

OVERNMENT in all the states of the federation have been urged to create jobs for youhs as it is the only way to reduce and sustain low crime rate.

A crime analyst Mr Folorusho Atta gave this advise during the launch of the youths Skill Acquisition Project by the Sokoto State Governor, Alhaji Aliyu Wamako in the state capital.

He described the project as one that worthy of emulation, aimed at empowering the youths to be self-employed, and also check their criminal tendencies.

Atta said many youths who were used in the past by politicians in the State for thuggery and other violence act would no longer be available for such dirty jobs now that they would be engaged in learning different trades and skills that will equipped them for future challenges.

He said, “The Sokoto youth who today is engaged in apprenticeship in a particular trade or the other, and is being paid some allowance on training will desist from crime and other social vies as compared to when he/she was idle”.

He enjoined other state Governors to engage the youths in projects that will give them a bright future and also keep them away from crimes.

Commenting on the crime situation in Lagos State, Atta disclosed that the current leadership of the Command has in the past six mouths being able to restore discipline among senior and junior ranks in the command.

According to him, the police leadership in Lagos under Mr Yakubu Alkali has reduced extortion and corruption which before now was very pronounced in the command.

THE NATION

39

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

Honorary doctorate for Sylva’s man

T

HE special Adviser on Security to Bayelsa State Governor, Chief Perekeme Richard Kpodoh, has been conferred with an honorary doctorate degree in Public Administration by the All Saints University of America (ASUA).

According to a statement by the media aide to Kpodoh, Richard Atanure, the honour was bestowed on Chief Kpodoh at the conference centre of Obafemi Awolowo University IleIfe, Osun State, on Saturday, August 13, 2011.

The Executive Secretary, Leadership Trust Foundation and the ASUA Nigerian coordinator, Dr. M.A Akinpelumi, stated at the conferment that the award is in continuation of the tradition of recognising individual ex-

By Austin Avwode

cellence by the Leadership Trust Foundation.

His words: “We believe that certain individuals from the many that we reviewed deserve recognition for their good work.”

He explained that Kpodoh’s outstanding performance as special adviser to the governor has ensured there is peaceful co-existence in Bayesla State, an otherwise volatile state.

“A man like Mr. Kpodoh should be celebrated. Hence we recommended him to our affiliate for this year’s honorary Doctorate Degree in Public Administration,” Dr

Akinpelumi stated.

The colourful ceremony commenced with an investiture of five Nigerians as Fellows of the Certified Institute of Management (CIM), which included Dr Kpodoh.

According to the Director General, the CIM is all about developing people to become managers with dynamism and sound knowledge of management.

In the citation read on behalf of Kpodoh, it was stated that he was born in 1953 at Okesuna Street, Lagos and had his elementary and post elementary education at Aba, Abia State. He holds a Diploma in Business Administration from the Institute of Administrative Management.

•Kpodoh

Aspirant sets agenda for development

A

N Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) chairmanship aspirant in the forthcoming local government election in Agboyi-Ketu Local Council Development Area, Lagos, Alhaji Adetunji Ilelaboye, has implored the state governor, Babatunde Raji Fashola to impress it on the council chairmen to concentrate on specific areas of development.

The small and medium-scale expert frowned at the over-dependence by the councils on the state government for funds without utilizsing the enormous potentials and resources available at their various councils.

The banker-turned politician spoke in Lagos.

“I am a strong believer in the project of looking inwards,” he said. “I am also convinced that there is a way out of the over-dependence on the state government for funds by the councils.”

Ilelaboye stressed that the councils should be made to specialise on a particular product that can stimulate growth and development in their various councils and the state in gen-

T

HE security of lives and property in Umueri community in Anambra-East Local Government Area has received a boost with the presentation and launch of the crime fighting equipment donated to the Central Vigilance group o f the community by her worthy sons.

The security equipment were two brand new Toyota Hilux trucks, six police patrol motorcycles, communication gadgets, electrical and water borehole equipment, among others.

Addressing the people of the area during the presentation cer-

eral.

“Councils must have areas of specialisation agreed upon by their chairmen. For example, Epe could be made to produce fish in large quantities. Ikorodu is good at garri production. Those in Badagry are good at weaving clothes. Lagos Island is noted for the production of chickens, Kosofe and Agboyi-Ketu are also noted for fishing and animal husbandry same can be said of other councils if

we can do this we will be self sufficient in food production, there will be massive employment for both skilled and unskilled youths, security, health care system, education and commerce among others will benefit immensely.

He added,” we have planning officers in the councils. If am given the opportunity to lead Agboyi-Ketu Local Council Development Area, I’ll use the planning officers to

Councils must have areas of specialisation agreed upon by their chairmen. For example, Epe could be made to produce fish in large quantities. Ikorodu is good at garri production. Those in Badagry are good at weaving clothes

Community moves to enhance security From Nwanosike Onu, Awka

emony, Chief Press Secretary to Anambra State Governor, Mr Mike Udah described the event as a welcome development, adding that security was a key factor to good governance in the society.

He further said that what Umueri community had done was commendable and should be emulated by other communi-

ties.

Udah explained that it was gratifying that Umueri community could, on its own, provide security equipment in order to ensure that security was adequately taken care of in the area.

He said: “The rating of security is very high as the state is quite peaceful because of Governor Obi’s resolve to rid it of hoodlums.”

In an address of welcome, the

Commission intensifies campaign against piracy

T

HE Nigeria Copyrights Commission (NCC) has embarked on an intensive campaign to rid markets in the commercial city of Onitsha Anambra State of piracy.

Speaking to journalists, the Commission’s Senior Copyright Inspector, Mr. Emeana Sylvester Emeka said that the commission had embarked on sensitisation campaign to educate Nigerian traders as well as consumers on the dangers of piracy.

He said that efforts had been strengthened to rid the markets in the country of pirates whom he described as cankerworm that has eaten deep into the country’s fabrics especially as it affects creativity.

Emeana however expressed sadness over the fact that despite the

full capacity, planning for the people and the development of the state.

“I hope to create an army of workers called Vanguard. I’ll put in place emergency plan of 90 days. What l’ll require to do this if voted into power is just the pronouncement and backing of the state government. The state House of Assembly can ratify it later.

“The idea is to stimulate growth and development through empowerment. It will be operated like the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) covering all the wards in Agboyi-Ketu. Those recruited will be camped for some weeks and be trained for a period of time on different endeavours.

“They will also be educated on the problems in the country, their home front and the challenges ahead. You will see how prepared they are when they come out.

“At the end of the programme, those willing to stay with the council will be encouraged to do so, while those unwilling will be allowed to set up businesses on their own with close monitoring by the council.”

We collaborate with relevant law enforcement agencies to fight piracy.

We also identify the places where piracy is taking place and our action is based on complaints

peace and progress in the area.

The chairman of Umueri security outfit, Mr. Joe Onwuesi, stated that with the new security equipment on ground, criminals were now fleeing the area.

Speaking on behalf of his co-donors while handing over the keys of the vehicles and documents to the President-General of the community, Mr Ben Emeka said that the fight against crime in the society should not be left alone to the government, adding that it is an issue that should be seen as the collective responsibility of all.

NGO urges PHCN on commitment

A

NON-GOVERNMENTAL organisation, Initiative for Better Power Supply has charged staff of Power Holdings Company of Nigeria, PHCN to be committed to duty going by the recent increase in electricity tariff.

The National Coordinator of the group, Don Emma Onose, in a state-

From Adimike George, Onitsha

dangers inherent in patronising pirates in the country’s markets, piracy was increasing geometrically in the country.

He also noted that the fight against piracy in the country had been a very tough one, adding that the commission had not received cooperation from copyright owners and called on them to collaborate with the commission to safeguard their works.

On the activities of the commission, the copy right officer said that they had adopted different approaches to eradicate piracy in the country through public enlightenment campaigns and enforcement through raids.

He said: “What we do in the fight against piracy is that we approach

President–General, Umueri General Assembly, Mr Henry Jideani, described the event as a new dawn in the history of the town.

He advocated peace and love for one another for the overall development of the community.

The Head of Service of Ayamelum Local Government who also hailed from Umueri, Chief Robert Jideani, remarked that Governor Obi had done a lot in terms of security in the state and expressed hope that such event would engender lasting

•Emeka it from different directions such as public enlightenment and enforcement through raid exercises. We collaborate with relevant law enforcement agencies to fight piracy.

We also identify the places where piracy is taking place and our action is based on complaints.”

He also disclosed that the commission embarks on surveillance to identify the pirated works in the markets across the country, adding “we muscle ourselves up to take care of the situation.”

He warned that it was no longer business as usual as the commission was poised to charge any person caught indulging in piracy to court.

Many Nigerians are poor today because they cannot afford to buy power generating set to power their businesses. The future of the less privileged ones is in the hand of PHCN

From Polycarp Orosevwotu, Ughelli

ment said the only way to justify the increase in the tariff is for PHCN management and the entire workforce to show greater commitment in their service to the public.

He said: “Nigerians depend mainly on electricity in their everyday businesses and domestic needs. And it is only proper for them to experience better power supply now than before.

“As at today, 60 per cent of Nigerian population lacks access to constant electricity supply to their homes, due to poor service and lack of commitment to work.

“Many Nigerians are poor today because they cannot afford to buy power generating set to power their businesses. The future of the less privileged ones is in the hand of PHCN. “We want to use this opportunity to call on the Minister of Power, Prof. Bart Nnaji to approve the 50 per cent increment of salary as agreed to with the workers of the Power Holding Company of Nigeria.

“The minister should also hold a roundtable conference with the workers on the way out of this poor power situation. What is paramount to Nigerians now is improved power supply,” he said.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

40

Your spirit of benevolence is incomparable.

You have made us proud. We are wishing you long life. Wherever the donations came from, God will replenish them 100 folds

Honour for a philanthropist F

OR both the students and management of the Federal Polytechnic Oko in Orumba North council area of Anambra State, there are reasons to thank God. Apart from the diligence of the Rector, Prof. Godwin Onu in piloting the affairs of the school, the interest of Sir Emeka Offor and his foundation Sir Emeka Offor Foundation in boosting education in the country with a special interest in Oko calls for celebration.

That could also explain the reason for the award which the students’ union government of the institution has presented an award to Sir Offor for his contributions towards the growth and development of the institution.

Sir Offor also used the opportunity to shower the students with another set of donation of information communication equipment including 10 brand new desktop and laptop computers and accessories.

Before the presentation of the award and the computers, the coordinator of Sir Emeka Offor Foundation Mr. Tony Obi explained that the interest of the foundation in the institution has no political undertone, adding that the interest of the founder in the institution was borne out of personal conviction on the need to raise the standard of education in the country.

Obi noted that the slogan that charity begins at home also contributed in no small measure in the choice of Oko as a focal point for the foundation’s school empowerment programme.

He urged the students not to betray the confidence of the foundation, warning that the foundation will not waste time in diverting its

From Adimike George, Onitsha

attention to another school if the Polytechnic was found wanting in its responsibilities.

He promised the students that if the equipment were used judiciously, the foundation will provide more for the institution. He therefore urged them not to let down the rector’s commitment in moving the institution forward.

Obi said that the foundation was committed to the development of students across the state especially the intelligent but indigent ones through scholarship schemes.

He said that the foundation had trained so many students in different tertiary institutions across the country and stressed the need for the management and students of Federal Polytechnic, Oko to make maximum utilisation of the materials donated to them by the foundation.

The Director, Students’ Affairs Department, Mrs. Esther Odigwe, on behalf of the students and the management of the school, thanked Sir Emeka Offor and the foundation for the donations, promising that the school won’t disappoint them, even as she likened the school to a closed sect where success are bound.

“The entire polytechnic is proud of you,” she told Sir Offor as she recalled that after the first set of books was donated by the foundation, the school received about N11m.”

Continuing, she said: “We are very happy for picking our school as a case study in the business of promoting education. The students were very keen and eager to meet the philanthropist. You see in him

•SUG President, Comrade Emmanuel presenting the award to Offor what the Bible preaches about a cheerful giver; smiling while giving. We have heard of you on good notes.”

The visibly elated SUG President, Comrade Nnadozie Emmanuel Excel expressed his happiness over the development, saying “we are here to answer a call.”

He said: “I am short of words.

Your spirit of benevolence is incomparable. You have made us proud.

We are wishing you long life.

Wherever the donations came from, God will replenish them 100 folds.”

He praised Sir Offor for his contributions towards the development of the institution.

He further said that the school was better equipped after the generous

donation of various books by Sir Emeka Offor Foundation, promising that the students would make good use of the ICT materials and other items donated to enhance their learning capacities.

Speaking before the handing over of the materials, the founder, Sir Emeka Offor said that the gesture was informed by his desire for educational development across the country especially in Anambra State.

According to him, the equipment were donated to the school for the institution’s Students’ Union Government. He urged them to deploy the materials to enhance their academic pursuit, adding that the foundation would do more to encour-

Enugu hosts bank of industry

T

HE Managing Director of Bank of Industry, Ms Evelyn Oputu has said that the high rate of crime in Aba, Abia State informed the relocation of the bank from the commercial city to Enugu.

She stated this at Enugu during the inauguration of the Southeast zonal office of the bank.

Ms Oputu, in an address presented to Governor Sullivan Chime and other dignitaries at the occasion, disclosed that the high rate of crime in Aba where it was located since its establishment in 2001was the main reason for the relocation of the Southeast zonal office of the bank to Enugu State.

According to her, Aba, being the hub of industries east of the Niger was chosen as the zonal headquarters of the bank and it remained there for some time until the rate of crime in the city escalated.

She recalled that members of staff there were no longer safe after the violent death of two of their members.

“The bank lost two lives and the staff felt unsafe living in Aba. Management took a decision which led to the closure of the bank in Aba in particular and Southeast zone generally,” she said.

But after a long absence from the Southeast, the management decided to come back to the zone. And the search for a new location was launched. The search ended up in Enugu.

•Governor Chime in handshake with the MD Bank of Industry, Ms Evelyn Oputu From Chris Oji, Enugu

Oputu told the audience that their decision to relocate to Enugu was not just informed by the fact that Enugu was the administrative headquarters of the former Eastern Region but also by the fact that it provided the peaceful atmosphere conducive to business and other social activities.

Narrating how they approached Governor Sullivan Chime for office accommodation, the managing director said the governor did not waste time to provide the bank with the office which was being inaugurated.

In addition, the Enugu State government

made available to them a piece of land to build the permanent site of the bank. “We shall soon commence the development of the land.”

She said that the bank has pumped in a whopping sum of N65b into the country’s economic sector, saying “I am happy to inform you that N20b of the N65b is in Enugu and one of the beneficiaries is the Innoson Group, Enugu who is present here.”

She assured that with an atmosphere conducive to business in Enugu, the bank would effectively operate in other states of the Southeast.

Responding, Governor Sullivan Chime saluted the Board of Directors and the entire

age the school if the materials donated were used judiciously.

He also warned that the materials were not given to an individual, stressing that they were meant for the proper enhancement of academic excellence of the Polytechnic, even as he called for proper use of the computers and other educational materials.

Sir Offor said: “I want the students of Federal Polytechnic, Oko to be the best in the country; meanwhile, we want to be sure that these materials are used because as businessmen, we always want to account for every kobo we have committed to any organisation.”

management of the bank for the choice of Enugu as the host city of the Southeast zonal office.

“I am fully aware of the challenges and the strong commitment it took for this relocation back to the Southeast to become a reality,” the governor stated.

He said as a nation, especially in the Southeast zone, “We have experienced the painful collapse of flourishing industries with the attendant losses of jobs and investments, due largely to lack of access to funds, mismanagement and other ancillary support necessary for the growth and stability of these firms.

“The event of today, thus, is a bold step not only to revive such ailing industries but also to promote new businesses and encourage existing ones.”

He said Enugu State government has continued to provide the enabling environment that will attract prospective investors and keep existing ones in Enugu State.

“We shall remain faithful to our vow to create the platform that will make it possible for businesses to thrive.”

He disclosed that his administration was ready to take up the challenge of creating one million jobs in the next two years.

The governor announced that in a few days, Shoprite will commence trading operations in the Coal City as a prelude to the inauguration of the Enugu Shopping Mall, the biggest in the country.

“With industrial estates and parks already designated and an Enugu Free Trade Zone awaiting necessary approvals, the Bank of Industry must gear up for the anticipated upsurge in industrial activities.

In like manner, the Akanu Ibiam International Airport and the Enugu Monorail project signal that our daybreak has come to herald the economic rejuvenation of not just Enugu State but the Southeast zone and the Nigerian nation at large,” Chime said.

SHOPPING

41

THE NATION

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

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

e-mail: janicenkoli@yahoo.com 08033349992 sms only

email:- shopping@thenationonlineng.net

Why Nigerians prefer Chinese goods Despite the belief that Chinese products are inferior, they have continued to enjoy huge patronage from Nigerians. Why is it so?

JANICE NKOLI IFEME asks.

F

ROM the frantic streets of Lagos to the drowsy streets of Maiduguri, the ordinary Nigerian believes in made-in-China products because they are affordable. This is not perculiar to Nigeria. With the rapid economic growth of China in the last five years, there is a made-in- China product in every household in the world.

The demand is bolstered by the products’ reasonable price compared with similar products made in the developed countries.

Almost every household in China has a mobile phone. In fact, China is now the world’s largest mobile phone market, both in demand and supply. 303 million mobile phones were produced in China in 2005, exceeding production levels in most OECD countries.

The same year, the country also churned out 81 million computers, emerging second as the world’s largest PC market and the world’s third largest producer of semiconductors.

This dizzying pace of output has brought down information technology (IT) costs globally, and helped to make IT products an integral part of daily life.

China’s staggering economic

• Continued on Pg 42

• Virtually all kinds of electronics are manufactured in China

Star product of the week

Want to lose weight?

Respite for displaced traders

Body magic Page 43

Page 43

Page 44

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

42

SHOPPING

Why Nigerians prefer Chinese goods • Continued from Pg 41

growth rate has stood at almost 10 per cent in the last 20 years.

Besides overtaking Japan as the world’s second largest economic entity, its manufacturing sector has also replaced Japan’s for the second spot, according to chinanews.com. The report noted that China’s economic growth rate reached 11.1 per cent during the first half of last year, adding that industry will continue maintaining a dominant role in its economy.

However, recently Chinese made products are making the headlines for all the wrong reasons. The high demand for made-inChina products has caused it to compromise on quality and safety.

Nigeria is China’s second largest trading partner in Africa after South Africa.

A major market which has turned a sanctuary of sorts for Chinese products is Balogun market. It is located on Lagos Island and extends into Marina and Broad Street, among other markets.

This huge market, largely patronised for its products quality and availability by Nigerians and foreigners alike, has become a haven for substandard products.

The market, which thrives with various goods including office and household appliances, beauty products, cosmetics, construction equipment, baby products, fashion accessories, clothing and food items, among others, has almost been taken over

by Chinese products.

Just like in many parts of the country, China has stamped its feet at Balogun in a most domineering manner. It is in such a way that the Chinese merchants import the products from China and give them out on wholesale to Nigerian traders who in turn retail them to buyers who come from different parts of Lagos and beyond.

Generally, these products are fairly good and sold at very affordable prices, which is why many prefer going for them.

But Balogun is not the only market where Chinese products thrive. Other major markets, such as Alaba International, Ladipo International Market, Trade Fair Auto Spare Parts Market popularly called Aspanda, Oshodi, Yaba, Westminister, Computer Village and virtually all the markets are also flooded with made-in-China goods. Almost every product brand has its Chinese equivalent, which is relatively cheaper. Cosmetics, toiletries, perfumes, roll-ons, wrist watches, wall clocks, jewelery, foot wear, clothing, household appliances, glass furniture and practically everything is replicated and sold at cheaper prices.

Given their lower prices, people are usually attracted to them.

During a visit to the Alaba International Market, The Nation Shopping discovered that most popular electronic brands, such as Sony, Samsung, Sharp Panasonic and LG have their China equivalent.

Besides, home appliances, such as cutlery, washing machine, refrigerator, sewing machine, cookers, kitchen utensils also have their China equivalents.

The same situation is found at the Ladipo International Spare Parts market. This market, acclaimed largest of its kind in West Africa has spare parts of all the car brands.

It also has the China make of virtually all the spare parts sold. As with the general assessment of these Chinese products, they are usually cheaper than the other brands.

The underlying philosophy here is quick sales. As long as it is cheap, it will sell. A dealer confided in The Nation Shopping, saying: “These made-in-China parts don’t last.

I am just telling you the truth because of the way you approached me. I don’t sell them by myself. I sell them through the paramo people. Paramo is a name we give to those traders who don’t have shops - the customer cannot hold them accountable since there will be nowhere to locate them.

“I do it so because I want to protect my company’s name. I want to run it as a real corporate body so that we can keep a good name for the future. The type of China products they send to us here cannot give us a good reputation among quality minded people. “ The Computer Village at Ikeja is no different. Consider a situation where a phone barely sold for so little contains two SIMs, tv, games, radio and too many facilities too many for its low capacity battery to carry.

Only a made-in-China phone could have such numerous facilities and sold at a very low price, even if it lasts for just a few months. It has also eroded into computer

• China produces almost every household product.

accessories - if you buy a made-in-China flash drive or mouse, it is most likely that it would not serve you for a sustainable period. It is common to see different flash drives with brand names, such as LG, Sony, Panasonic or HP written on them, but on closer examination, you would discover that they are made in China.

On this observation, this reporter asked a phone accessories dealer: “Why then do you stock them when you know that they would not last long enough?”

Her reply: “That is what people prefer. We always buy several cartons and we sell them off quicker because they are not very expensive. One thing you should know is that we buy what is in demand and whether we like it or not, we must buy them because we must sell.

“Are you now saying that if you buy better quality ones that people would not buy?

She said: “I have not said so. All I said is that China products sell faster. They are good for quick sales and quick sales is big money.”

Another trader, Mr Charles Aloysius, who was listeninga said: “These are the ones our money can buy and with them we can make some change. I don’t care what you want to write but whatever you are writing, tell government that we are tired of living in poverty. They are the ones causing the problem because they are supporting the rich who do not want the poor to survive, so what do they want us to do?”

Chinese brands of motorcycles are also in high demand in major parts of Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Aba, Onitsha, Kaduna, Uyo, Calabar and Benin. Some of the common

brands are Sanyang, and Bajaj Boxer. Commercial motorcyclists popularly called Okada riders are no doubt grateful to China for its affordable motorbikes. The cheapest of these costs about N40, 000.

An okada rider, Mr John Odeh corroborated: “These China products do help us o. They use to last o.”

While acknowledging the fact that many of the China made products are substandard, shoppers, said some are not as inferior as they are portrayed to be as they last for a considerable period. In affirmation, a banker, Mrs Oyin Badru, said: “For so long, I could not afford a washing machine, but two years ago, I came across a dealer on mini washing machines made-in-China.

“It was affordable so I got one for myself.

I am still using it till date. It might not be of an extra superior quality, but it is meeting my need. I also have a Chinese made blender I have been using for a while and the beauty of it is that it does not require electricity to work. So, I think it depends on what you are buying,” she said.

While some see the influx of Chinese products as strangulating local industries, others simply see it as lack of enabling environment on the part of government.

“I can tell you that many industries have folded in favour of Chinese products. They are not giving us breathing space at all and the worst is that the government appears not to be doing anything tangible about it”, said a local manufacturer, Mr Johnson Ikechukwu.

However, the government has taken some steps towards forestalling the influx of substandard Chinese products. President Goodluck Jonathan had approved the sign-

‘Just like in many parts of the country, China has stamped its feet at Balogun in a most domineering manner. It is in such a way that the Chinese merchants import the products from China and give them out on wholesale to Nigerian traders who in turn retail them to buyers who come from different parts of Lagos and beyond’

ing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Chinese government on the issue.

The Standards Organisation of Nigeria, (SON) had threatened to lodge a formal complaint with the World Trade Organisation (WTO) if China did not check the situation.

But the Chinese government blamed it on Nigeria’s businessmen who have been alleged to be importers of such products.

Corroborating this view, an economist, Dr Niyi Adeniji, noted that China has come this far in its ingenuity and hard work and it is capable of producing any product specification. He said: “If you go to Wal Mart in the United States, they have China products, but they are made according to the United States specification for standard products. After all, the Chinese ambassador also acknowledged it - the products imported into Nigeria are as a result of their specifications”.

For Mr Jonah Edem, a businessman, “the Chinese government has created an enabling environment for their people to thrive all over the world. Should we not be ashamed of ourselves that foreign companies have taken over our industries? I can tell you that if our government could provide power and infrastructure, then you will see the stuff Nigerians are made of.”

Furthermore, Chinese born Han Louis Abdul says his generation is promoting the new Chinese image of quality and integrity.

“My generation is growing up and trying to introduce a new image of China. We oppose fake products and stand for quality and integrity. We were driven into business by passion and entrepreneurship.

“Fifty years ago, Japan stood for inferior products, but today it stands for quality. The Chinese produces everything and we produce quality.”

“My philosophy is different from past generations. My generation is the 80 plus, who have good education, with access to English and internet. It helped us to develop a universal tour and get between the geographical divide. I love Nigeria. It is a very good place with good people,” he said.

In all, the major cause of China’s progress is strong exports underpinned by low production costs. Nigeria could take a cue and create the enabling environment especially in the provision of power and infrastructure.

43

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

SHOPPING STAR PRODUCT OF THE WEEK

Shopping Right

Body magic

with

Do you shop with your child?

R

Want to lose weight?

M

OST men and women are not happy with their figures, especially those who are fat. They do all sort of things to reduce their weight.

For example, when a woman starts to give birth, there is the tendency that she will put on some weight. Some men have the tendency of having pot belly. Many put on flesh as a result of the food they take. Such people are not happy with themselves, especially when they find it difficult to go on a diet, do exercises or skip meals.

To address this, many take GNLD, Forever Living Products, Tianshi, Edmark and other drugs without getting satisfactory results.

However, there is a new product in town that is very effective for such people, it is called Ardyss. It can enable one to shed weight without dieting or doing exercises.

Ardyss was manufactured in 1991 in Mexico.

The product is meant to address the issue of over weight in both male and female.

It consists of the three R’s, which are: reshape, revive and result and those are the things that people are looking for. It differs from all other products because it is a two step system. It comes in a garment form or as a drink. Most beauticians encourage people who want to shed weight to go for it.

Ardyss products do not discriminate. Some of those in garment form could be in a maternity girdle, post partum girdle, Angel bra for women, Lumbo man, and slim shaper and so on.

They can be purchased at various outlets, on line, or through their sales representatives. Some people who have used Ardyss products aired their testimonies about the product.

Mrs Adetokunbo Akinjole, a business tycoon, said: “I purchased the slim shaper for

By Bukola Akinjole

my stomach because I wanted to still work on the lower side of my stomach. A friend of mine, who is one of their sales representatives, told me about Ardyss, that it will make my stomach flatter and I will drop two to three dress sizes. After two weeks of putting on the garment I had really drop two dress sizes.”

An engineer, Mr Rotimi Ibrahim, said: “I have been looking for a way to reduce my belly which is due to beer drinking. I registered for a gym not too far from my house, some months ago. I was asked to keep on a diet which I couldn’t. A friend of mine recommended the lumbo man. I just made use of it for about three weeks and I saw great changes on my belly.

Sales representative for Ardyss Nigeria, Mrs Gbemisola Akinjole, said the product is a unique.

Her words: “People see it and purchase it now because it is selling like hot cake in the market. I have made use of Ardyss product.

I can say am a living witness of this products. ‘’I made use of the body magic for women and have seen great changes in myself. The benefits of being a sales representative is worthwhile because it has made me grow so much in my business and to touch the lives of others. Now the people who are seriously looking for something to make them loose weight no longer need to search for any other product because Arydss is a fast and permanent solution to weight loss.

“My advice to all beauty clinics and stores in Nigeria is that they should go and stock their shops with Ardyss products because “An appointment with Ardyss will change their life for good.”

•Ardyss nutritional for weight loss: Made in Mexico.

IGHT now, most children are on holiday-that vacation which lasts for roughly two months. For some parents, it is time to take their children to exciting places to catch some fun. Many utilise the opportunity to spend ample time with their children.

Indeed, there are many things you can do to create fun and affection with the children.

One of this is shopping with them. Shopping JANICE NKOLI IFEME with children enables them learn how to spend their money effectively among other contented. It can also prevent the common, things. Here are some tips you could apply frightening experience of losing a toddler while shopping with your child. in a crowd.

Remember that children have limits Shopping with older children If you are shopping with children, be alert An older child can be a great help in shopto their needs: are they tired, hungry, over- ping, if approached in a spirit of fun and excited by the noise and confusion or simply appreciation. If the child is informed about in need of fresh air and exercise, or a reas- the items to purchase, they can easily help suring hug? to locate them. Children mature enough to Remember that children are naturally shop by themselves can help shorten the curious trip by finding items alone, returning periChildren are naturally curious; this is how odically to put items into the cart. they learn about the world around them. If Avoid the crowds they want to examine an attractive item, Shopping just before dinner, when stores please do not scold them. Instead, help them are crowded, and parents and children are to hold the item safely, or let them know tired and hungry, can be very stressful. Try that it can be viewed but not touched. You shopping in the morning or early afternoon might say “This is breakable, so let’s just on weekdays, or move dinner up and shop look at it together.” Even if an item cannot during the quiet early-evening time bebe purchased, it can be helpful to share the tween six and seven. When we can avoid child’s enthusiasm and interest in it. the stress of crowded stores and long checkShopping out lines, we can have with infants more energy and creaS h o p p i n g ‘If you are shopping with chil- tivity for responding to with an infant our child’s needs. will be far easier dren, be alert to their needs: are When you need to say if the trip is they tired, hungry, overexcited ‘no’ made after they by the noise and confusion or The most important are rested and part of saying no is confed. Babies and simply in need of fresh air and veying to the child that small children exercise, or a reassuring hug? ... we are on his or her can become deside, even if we cannot hydrated in the Children are naturally curious; satisfy all desires immedry air of shop- this is how they learn about the diately. It might help to ping malls, so be say, “That is nice, isn’t sure to take fre- world around them. If they want it? Take a good look and quent nursing to examine an attractive item, when we get home, or juice breaks. we’ll add it to your wish Babies are please do not scold them. In- list.” Indeed, there is no happier when stead, help them to hold the item reason we cannot say carried. A sling safely, or let them know that it ‘no’ to children in just or carrier worn as kind a way as we say by the parent can be viewed but not touched’ ‘yes’. And remember provides far that smiles, hugs, and more comfort cuddles are all free! and emotional security than a stroller or groIf you reach your limit cery cart. A small child-proof toy can help a If you reach the limit of your patience and baby to cope with the inevitably lessened energy, try to show by example positive attention from the parent, but remember to ways of handling anger and fatigue. You stop as often as possible and take a moment might try saying, “I’m starting to lose my for gentle words, eye contact, and hugs. patience. I think I need a break from shopShopping with toddlers ping for a bit. Let’s go outside for a few Toddlers can begin to be included in shop- minutes so we can both get refreshed.” Even ping decisions. Involving the child with ques- a few moments of fresh air away from the tions such as “which of these peaches looks crowds can make a big difference for both better to you?” can turn a boring, frustrating parent and child. experience into a more pleasurable one, for If your children reach their limit both parent and child. Children of all ages If, after trying some of the above suggesenjoy and appreciate being able to make tions, your children have simply reached some of the product choices themselves. the end of their ability to handle any more Bringing along juice, a favourite snack, and errands, please respect that. Shopping can a well-loved picture book, or a newly-bor- wait. Remember that children behave as rowed one from the library, can also be very well as they are treated. A child who is reguhelpful. larly given our time, undivided attention, Being surrounded by a crowd of adults patience and understanding will have more can be intimidating to little children, espe- tolerance for a shopping trip - and any other cially when stores are busy. Using a challenging situation - than the child who backpack can be one way of bringing tod- must face stressful situations without this dlers up to a height where they are more emotional support.

Write to us, express your views, observations and experiences. Let’s have your comments about shopping. Your comments, questions and answers will be published first Friday of every month. With your full name and occupation, send e-mail to: janicenkoli@yahoo.com SMS - 08033349992

44

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

SHOPPING

Respite for displaced traders F

OR traders in EgbedaEarly last year, the Lagos State Government demolished Akowonjo, Lagos, whose shops were demolished shops at Egbeda. Some of the affected traders lamented some months ago, relief is on the way as a new shopping the action. But life must go on. So, they made do with complex will soon be opened and allocated to them at afford- stalls in the area or spaces by the gutter. Relief is coming able prices. as a new shopping complex is under way. BUKOLA A businessman/philanthropist, Prince Adekunle AKINJOLE writes.

Adebayo, came to the rescue of the shop owners early this year as costumers because it was too small.

Joseph Okonwo, expressed concern he is now putting finishing touches Mrs Susan Akintola, one of his over the kind of structures being to the shopping complex. costumers, said: “It is not the beauty erected for business.

For the traders, the shops would of the shop that matters, but for us to “We cannot just leave such places be given out at reduced prices rangget a convenient place where we can and call them shops; a good strucing between N130,000 and get access to the traders.” ture will make the environment more N150,000, depending on the size.

Prince Adebayo, however, said the appealing. In fact, more revenue will The traders expressed their graticomplex was yet to be given a name. be realised by the government; at tude to Prince Adebayo for rescuing He said: “If you look around Egbeda, least not only Lekki or Victoria Isthem. They also urged other business the shopping complexes there now land is good for a big shopping commen to emulate him. are not beautiful enough to even atplex. Other parts of Lagos should Speaking with The Nation, one of tract people to come and rent. The also have similar structures like the affected traders, Mr Okafor people, who rent those shops, do so those of Victoria Island and Lekki.

Arinze, said: “Our suffering has just because they are looking for a We are not trying to spoil the dreams come to an end. I want to say a big place to sell. This shopping complex of the traders’ shops that were dethanks to Prince Adekunle should have been completed a long molished”.

Adebayo. He has done so well for us time ago, but we were asked to adjust The newly built shopping complex all. Formerly, what I did after my some things in our plan. In three will be opened in three months and shop was demolished was that I put months time it will be opened fully”. those without shops would have the wood together to make a shed and it Shedding more light on the demolopportunity to acquire a shop in the was not convenient for me and my ished shops, an environmentalist, Mr complex.

•The shopping complex.

45

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

NATION SPORT

Kaniskina breaks cover curse to walk her way into history books

O • James

Kirani James, a Bolt from J the Blue UST when everyone thought there was only one Usain Bolt along comes Kirani James to prove otherwise.

Ever since he set world agegroup records for the 400m as a 14 and 15 year old, the names James and Bolt have been linked like twins.

Not that you will find James too keen on the comparison.

He already seems to have a clear idea of his own worth: “Usain is special in his own way, but I just want to be Kirani James from Grenada,” he says.

Now in his first season on the world stage, the teenager from Grenada who celebrated his 19th birthday yesterday, September 1, is the World champion after overhauling LaShawn Merritt of the USA in the final few dramatic metres.

For such a young man it was a performance worthy of a much older head. Timing his effort to perfection, James let Merritt do the early talking before taking over the reins when it mattered most to claim gold.

Speaking with a maturity beyond his years, James held court when he came off the Daegu track, careful not to appear too complacent about his thrilling victory: “I could not take gold for granted,” he said. “There were too many good runners out there. But it’s a great feeling to be world champion. I am just happy to be here, representing my country.”

Many men of greater experience might have panicked when Merritt went past on the top bend, but James

refused to panic: “My aim was to stay as relaxed as possible, follow my plan and finish strongly,” he said.

Following his plan to the letter, the teenager finished with impeccable timing to roars from an appreciative crowd and gold was his.

For the tiny island of Grenada it was a seismic shift.

The highest any athlete from the island had finished in the World Championships was when Alleyne Francique came in sixth in the same event in 2001 and 2003.

Francique, not surprisingly, is one of James’s role models: “Francique inspired a whole generation. That was when the transition for Grenadian athletics happened,” he told the press conference.

James’s journey to the Daegu track started in the small fishing village of Gouyave where he was spotted by his first coach, Albert Joseph, now an official with the Grenadian team in Daegu: “He was 12 at the time and he came along to the track just when he was moving from primary school to secondary school. He came for two weeks then stopped.

He didn’t want to train at first and he did a little basketball and soccer.”

Eventually James came back to athletics, “because I realised I was good at it,” he said.

And how! After world agegroup records for a 13 and 14 year old, James went to the World Youth championships 2009 and came away with

double gold in the 200m and 400m. One year later, he was World junior 400m champion: “He’s been breaking world age-group records since he came on the scene,” said Joseph matter-of-factly. “Every step of the way, he is like Bolt.”

Even better, in fact. At the age of 16 Bolt ran the 400m in 45.35 and the world was wowed, but when James attacked the distance at the same age, he was a full tenth of a second faster, clocking 45.24. Now, at the age of 18 years and 363 days he was proclaimed World champion. Bolt was 22 before he won his first senior World gold.

James is the ninth athlete in the history of the sport to win World youth, junior and now senior titles, just over an hour after Tatyana Chernova of Russia became the eighth in the Heptathlon.

There must be something in the Korean air that affects teenage quarter milers. It is 23 years since the USA’s Steve Lewis caused a similar upset in the Seoul Olympics when he lifted gold at the age of 19.

The irony is that Kirani is not the most talented of the James brothers. Joseph insists that elder brother Gary, now a teacher in Cuba, was more talented: “He was a huge inspiration to me,” agreed Kirani. “But he was good at about 20 sports.”

Coming from a small Caribbean island with only 104,000 inhabitants, it was inevitable that American

universities would come knocking and James had “dozens of offers. It was fun going to see all the colleges and eventually I chose Alabama because they have a great staff and I liked the setup.”

At Alabama he is coached by Harvey Glance, the 1976 Olympic sprint relay gold medallist: “I like Alabama because it gives me opportunities I would not get in Grenada like a good education,” he said. “And Harvey does a good job. He knows how to get me ready for big meets.”

Being an athlete, he is not particularly noticed on campus compared to American footballers, but he prefers it that way: “I hope I shall be on the radar now, but it’s good not to get the hype. It helps me stay myself,” he said.

LGA Kaniskina achieved two things that four other reigning Olympic champions had not managed to do here in Daegu. The first was to win a third straight World title. The second was to break the dreaded ‘cover curse’.

The Daegu Daily Programme cover curse has been something of a talking point among the media at the IAAF World Championships. After the misfortunes of the first four cover stars – Steve Hooker, Usain Bolt, Dayron Robles and Yelena Isinbayeva – people began to think that the featured athletes were jinxed.

So when defending 20km walk champion Olga Kaniskina appeared on the cover of the programme, it seemed as though it was just a matter of time before she too would fall victim, perhaps with a disqualification for lifting.

But the Russian did not let it affect her and she broke clear of the leading pack two thirds into the race, continually extending her lead through to the finish to clock a winning time of 1:29:42.

So how did she overcome the jinx that had affected so many of the world’s other leading athletes?

“I didn’t even realise that had been the case for the other athletes,” said Kaniskina, blissfully unaware of the ‘curse’.

“I wasn’t even aware that I was on the cover today. I’d like to thank everyone for not telling me about it before the race!”

But to focus on Kaniskina breaking the curse would be trite, as her performance was far more noteworthy on many other levels.

The 26-year-old became the first woman in World Championships history to win three 20km walk titles in a row.

Only one other race walker, male or female, has achieved such a feat – Ecuador’s Jefferson Perez, who won the men’s 20km walk three times between 2003 and 2007.

With Olympic and European titles also to her name, Kaniskina is without doubt one of the most dominant – and under-rated – athletes in world athletics. Her last loss at a major

• Kaniskina championship was when finishing second at the 2006 European Championships, aged just 21 at the time. Already she is arguably the greatest female walker of all time, and she has many years ahead of her in which to win more medals.

The only glaring omission from her CV is the World record.

She owns the second-fastest time in history at 1:24:56, but as it was set in a race without the minimum requirement of international officials, the official World record stands to teammate Vera Sokolova at 1:25:08.

“The World record is not the only thing missing, as I have not yet won the European Cup,” said Kaniskina, who won the World Cup title in 2008. “A World record attempt would be a very different race to the World Championships where tactics come in to play. But anything is possible. I already have the second-fastest time, so maybe one day I’ll try to officially get the record. Why not?”

Kaniskina, who finished last in her first ever race walking competition back in 2009, has an enviable knack of always raising her game for a major championships. Motivation, she says, is never an issue.

IAAF Council commemorates Daegu 2011—IAAF Green Project

J

UST prior to the start of the evening session on the fourth (30) of nine days of

competition at the 13th edition of the IAAF World Championships, Daegu 2011, members of the IAAF Council led by President Lamine Diack and the Mayor of the City of Daegu Kim Bum-il and his fellow LOC Co-President HaeNyoung Cho took part in a Tree Planting Ceremony in a park west of Daegu Stadium next to the Sports Museum.

This event was one of the IAAF Green Projects which Daegu City and the Local Organising

Committee (LOC) of the IAAF World Championships have organised to promote to the world the eco-friendly nature of the city and the championships.

Before helping to plant a commemorative tree President Diack delivered the following words: “I am pleased to be with you today, on the occasion of this Tree Planting Ceremony, which commemorates the IAAF World Championships Daegu 2011.”

“This Tree Planting Ceremony, which is planned to promote the IAAF Green Project and the IAAF World

Championships, will represent a long-lasting memory of this important event held in Daegu, for many years to come.”

“I hope to be able to come back in ten years to see how the tree will have grown.”

“I also look forward to seeing athletics in Korea in particular, and in Asia, bloom alongside this tree,” concluded President Diack, before he and his fellow Council Members, Mayor Kim Bum-il and Hae-Nyoung Cho, each donned pairs of white gloves, picked-up their spades, and started to shovel earth around the tree.

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

46

NATION SPORT

Rudisha among bevy of World stars to turn out for Press Lunch in Daegu F

OLLOWING the completion of the women’s 20km Race Walk, the only competition on Day 5 of the IAAF World Championships, Daegu 2011, the tradition of the championship's Press Lunch was continued in Casa Italia which for the nine day duration of Daegu 2011 is situated in the May Garden in Daegu City Centre.

Located just a few hundred metres away from the finish line of the 20km Race Walk, there was of course a huge turn-out of media for the lunch which was hosted by the AIPS (International Sports Press Association) and the organisers of the Helsinki European Champs 2012, with

the support of the Italian team and their sponsors.

The guests were welcomed

by AIPS President Gianni Merlo and Italian Federation President Franco Arese, with the list of VIPS attending headed by IAAF President Lamine Diack who was accompanied to the function by many of his Council colleagues including Daegu LOC Honorary President Rocky Park.

Helsinki 2012 LOC President Antti Pihlakoski and European Area Association President Hansjorg Wirz were also on hand to explain the philosophy of the biennial European championships whose new cycle begins with the 2012 championships in the

Despite knee injury Harting throws big and defends World title

• Harting

I

T was a bit of a gamble but it paid off in a perfect way for Robert Harting. Because of a niggling knee problem the defending Discus Throw champion decided to give it all at his first attempt.

Throwing a huge 68.48m he succeeded with these tactics and probably caused some shock among his closest rivals.

Despite limping after some of his attempts he later managed to improve to 68.97m.

The 26-year-old, who had celebrated an emotional home win two years ago in Berlin, had done more than enough to defend his title and win his third medal at the World Championships.

As a youngster Harting had already taken the silver medal in Osaka.

“The first throw was the decisive one. I did not expect though that I would be able to throw almost 69 metres today,” said Robert Harting. After his final attempt he kneed down to kiss the ring and then ripped his vest as he did when he won his other World Championships medals. “No,” he answered later one, when questioned if he would get trouble with the German federation’s sports sponsor.

Robert Harting is the third Discus Thrower in the history of the World Championships to defend his title. The last one who managed this was Virgilijus Alekna (Lithuania) in 2003 and 2005. Meanwhile, Lars Riedel’s series remains unique. The German had taken four gold medals between 1991 and ’97 and then added a fifth in 2001.

But without doubt Robert Harting is in the footsteps of the greatest Discus Throwers of all time. Being just 26 years old and already that successful the athlete from Belrin has the potential to one day become a legend of his sport. After Daegu he will be the one beat at the London Olympic Games in a year’s time. Three years ago he had missed out on an Olympic medal, when he placed fourth in Beijing.

“Because of my recent knee problems it had been my aim to have a very good first attempt and try to impress the others. It was an advantage for me that I was the third thrower in the rounds – this was a great chance and I took it,” said Robert Harting.

“But I was very surprised that Piotr Malachowski was out after three rounds, because I had expected him to win a medal tonight. He had lost his rhythm, but I don’t know if there was another problem – probably there was, because he is very experienced and something like this would normally not happen to him. But it seems all of us had some sort of problems recently.”

Robert Harting developed problems at a tendon in his left knee around ten weeks ago.

“This started after the Paris Diamond League Meeting.” In Daegu he had to get three pain killing injections before the qualification on Monday and then another three before the final on Tuesday.

Finnish capital.

Distinguishing the lunch with their presence were a host of top athletes including newly crowned World 800m champion David Rudisha and silver medallist Yuriy Borzakovskiy who were interviewed alongside former World record holder Lord Sebastian Coe. Appropriately women’s Pole Vault bronze medallist Svetlana Feofanova was presented to the audience with current men’s World record holder Sergey Bubka.

Two other new World champions were at the lunch, Tatyana Chernova (Heptathlon) and Yuliya Zaripova (3000m Steeplechase), while risingstar Christophe Lemaitre, fourth in the 100m, found himself on stage with sprint legend Don Quarrie, the 1976 Olympic 200m champion.

Following the formalities, the guests enjoyed the sumptuous hospitality of Casa Italia, the perfect culinary conclusion to such a world class gathering.

• Rudisha

Switch to Steeplechase allows Zaripova to become a star

R

USSIA has a proud middle distance tradition for women, especially in the 800 metres, and newly crowned World Steeplechase champion Yulia Zaripova had hoped to join it.

As a junior and running under her maiden name Yuliya Zarudneva, Zaripova put her efforts into competing in the 800m. In 2005, at the age of 19, she managed to get her personal best time down to a credible 2:05.44. While that was good enough to take third in the Russian Junior Championships, Zaripova sensed that she was never going to achieve greatness in

the two-lap race.

Discouraged, she essentially left the sport, and didn't compete for the next two years.

But in September, 2008, at the urging of her coach, Mikhail Kuznetsov, she tried the steeplechase. Her first result wasn't spectacular (10:12.52), but it was a start.

"I was running 800 metres and middle distances," Zaripova recalled after her victory in 9:07.03, a 2011 World leader and the fourth fastest time ever in history.

"After 2008, I came back to my coach Mikhail Kuznetzov and he proposed to me to change to the steeplechase. The main

• Zaripova

reason behind it was that I could stay a national team member. That was due to the steeplechase."

But Kuznetsov, who also coaches Tatyana Petrova, the 2006 European Championships and 2007 IAAF World Championships and silver medallist, saw Zaripova's potential. He shifted her training and racing program to emphasize more endurance events, like cross country (she was third in the U23 division of the 2008 European Championships); and 2000 to 5000 metre track races. To keep her speed, she also ran a 1500-meter race here and there.

By 2009, Kuznetsov's programme was bearing fruit. Zaripova had greatly improved her endurance, but she was also getting a lot faster, developing the speed and power necessary to compete well in the steeplechase. She won the 2009 Russian Indoor Championships at 3000 metres in a personal best 8:54.50, and finished seventh at the European Indoor Championships at 3000 metres.

But it was at the Russian Team Championships in Sochi in May, 2009, where Zaripova had her coming out party. She won the 3000m Steeplechase in a world class 9:34.47, beating her nextclosest rival by 48 seconds.

Just two weeks later, she improved to a then World leading 9:23.23, and two

weeks after that at the Russian Championships in Cheboksary, she ran an eyepopping 9:13.18 to win the national title. That set her up for the IAAF World Championships in August, 2009, where she won the silver medal and ran a spectacular 9:08.39. She was now a steeplechaser.

"Of course, I like it and it is very interesting for me: the barriers, the water barrier, and everything that is around," Zaripova said. "So now, I like it and it is my event."

The rest is history. Zaripova won the both the European and Continental Cup titles last year as a prelude to her victory last night. She, husband Ildar and coach Kuznetsov celebrated in the athlete's village last night, and the celebration continued at the Nike hospitality suite this morning. There, after playing table tennis with last night's 800m bronze medallist Yuriy Borzakovskiy, she was presented with a bottle of Dom Pérignon in a Nike shoe box.

But soon Zaripova will be back to training. She said that she cannot let her success affect either her work ethic as an athlete, or how she is as a person.

"It's the plan to work towards the Olympic Games, step by step with my victories," she said. "And, of course, I think I am still the same person I was before. Nothing major changed."

THE

2, 2011

47

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

NATION SPORT

•Holger Osieck

I

S the team (Australia) where you want them to be after one year?

I have found a good basis to work upon. The group is good and are very committed and determined, with a decent quality of football in all positions. My ideas about football obviously fell on fruitful ground and the players buy into it, which is always good for a coach.

Now that you know the 2014 FIFA World Cup draw, what are your thoughts for the road ahead?

In Asia it is a little different compared to, say, Europe because there are so few spots up for grabs. It is a long stretch and if you qualify you have to play 14 matches so it is a tough road in Asia. It’s very important to have a great start, we should aim to win our home games and go from there.

What are your expectations for the opening qualifiers home against Thailand and away against Saudi Arabia?

Thailand will be very well prepared so there is no reason to under-rate our opponents.

We have a lot of experience in the group and everyone knows what is at stake. Saudi will also of course be very difficult and local conditions will not be very favourable for us. They have an internationally recognised coach in Frank Rijkaard and they qualified for this round with two impressive performances.

What kind of style do you like your teams to play?

My style of football is that we want to play positively, we want to have a passing game and variations up front with off the ball running.

When it works it is very attractive football and we have played several games that look good to me.

How have you enjoyed the

Osieck: We want to play positive football Just over a year into his tenure at the helm of Australia, Holger Osieck has stamped his mark on the team with a fluid passing game that has also translated into on-field success. The Socceroos came within an inch of winning their first AFC Asian Cup in January, and have also notched several impressive scalps during the past 12 months, most notably a 2-1 win over Germany in their own backyard - a far cry from a devastating 4-0 loss against the same opponent at South Africa 2010.

Osieck has enjoyed a rich and diverse coaching career, which included serving as assistant to Franz Beckenbauer as his native Germany were crowned FIFA World Cup™ winners in 1990. Asian pedigree came while helping Japan super club Urawa Red Diamonds to an AFC Champions League victory in 2007, while on the international front Osieck was at the helm as Canada recorded a stunning continental triumph in 2000.

Now the affable Osieck is tasked with taking Australia to a third successive FIFA World Cup. FIFA.com chatted to Osieck about the looming qualifying campaign for Brazil 2014, his preferred brand of football, thoughts on the development of the Asian game and the challenges of managing a Socceroo team in transition. role on a personal level?

Australia is a beautiful country that is for sure. It is a holiday destination for many people so I am privileged to work here. I have a very good working environment and the people are very relaxed and cooperative and they even accept my sense of humour!

Have you come to terms with living in a country where football is far from the No1 sport?

I knew what I was facing when I came here. OK so it’s not like in Germany but I still enjoy it here. If we have success as a team then it will help the entire football

development in the country so I am trying to give my share to help lift the game.

What do you think about Harry Kewell signing for Melbourne Victory and playing in the A-League?

From my point of view Harry’s signing should be a great boost for the Victory, and the A-League in general to have one of the most prominent players the country has ever produced in the competition.

How do you see the strength and growth of Asian football across recent years?

There has been tremendous progress. Some countries

have made enormous strides.

When you see how many players are at top teams in Europe that is a clear indication that Asian football has developed tremendously.

Do you think Asian football and its recent growth is given enough global recognition?

If I look at my home country, the Japanese players are rated very highly. Players like [Shinji] Kagawa, [Makoto] Hasebe, [Hajime] Hosogai really have painted a very good impression of Japanese football. The Koreans too have many excellent players.

When Cha Bum Kun was first at Frankfurt (in the 1980s) he

was considered exotic but now it has become more and more a regular thing.

Australia had one of the oldest squads at South Africa 2010. How confident are you about successfully managing a transition within the playing group?

I have already started that process of introducing younger players if you look at the squads over the last year. In order to raise the standard of these players they need more international exposure to gain the necessary experience. On the other hand I am fortunate to be able to call on many experienced

players who are still performing, so I feel we have a good mix at the moment.

Do Australia have promising players coming through the ranks that will be ready should you qualify for Brazil 2014?

I have a good idea now about the upcoming generation. We have many promising players coming up but of course they need to gain experience and playing time. We cannot have too many new faces for every game and now that we are heading for a World Cup campaign there is not so much room for experimentation.

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 02, 2011

48

NATION SPORT

De La Hoya contemplates suicide F

ORMER boxing champion Oscar De La Hoya says he has contemplated suicide and has been going to rehabilitation

to treat drug and alcohol dependency.

In an interview with Spanishlanguage network Univision, De La Hoya said he has been

sober for three months after hitting rock bottom over the past two years.

'Rock bottom was recently,' De La Hoya said. 'Within a

•Hoya

couple of years, just thinking if my life was even worth it. I don't have the strength, I don't have the courage to take my own life but I was thinking about it.'

Golden boy: De La Hoya won 10 world titles in six divisions De La Hoya said he has been sober for three months after undergoing treatment and joining Alcoholics Anonymous.

He also admitted he was unfaithful to his wife and that they temporarily separated.

'We are obviously not talking a Tiger Woods here, but I was unfaithful,' he said.

De La Hoya retired in 2009 after a 16-year career in which he won 10 world titles in six divisions and became boxing's most popular fighter.

De La Hoya was thoroughly beaten by Manny Pacquiao in his last fight. He won his last title in May 2006, beating Ricardo Mayorga in six rounds for the WBC light middleweight belt. He finished with a record of 39-6 and 30 knockouts.

Known as 'The Golden Boy', De La Hoya transcended his sport, using his bilingual skills to generate crossover appeal among Latinos and whites.

He began boxing at age 5, following in the path of his grandfather and father. He won an Olympic gold medal at the 1992 Barcelona Games, delivering on a promise to his late mother, Cecilia, who died of breast cancer two years earlier.

'There were drugs, my drug of choice was cocaine and alcohol. Cocaine was recent.

The last 2 years. And I depended more in the alcohol than the cocaine,' he said.

'It took me to a place where I felt safe, it took me to a place where I felt as if nobody can say anything to me, it took me to a place where I just can reach out and grab my mom.'

US OPEN: McIlroy to miss Seve Trophy, needs break

R

ORY McIlroy has ruled himself out of Britain and Ireland's team for the Vivendi Seve Trophy in Paris.

The US Open champion was part of the winning side two years ago and it played an important role ahead of his Ryder Cup debut by showing him how much fun team golf was.

New cup captain Jose Maria Olazabal had wanted as many of his big names as possible to appear in the match - not just to see them in action, but to honour the memory of event founder Seve Ballesteros in the year of his death.

But McIlroy said he has commitments with his

•McIlroy

Alonso considers Vettel a ‘great champion’

Chernova could spoil plans of 2012 F Olympic memorabilia makers

T

HE respected international news agency Reuters has several times during the course of these World Championships described multi-events exponent Jessica Ennis as "Britain's brightest hope for athletics gold at next year's London Olympics."

Well, befitting a cold war drama with an MI5 v KGB plot line, there is now plenty of intrigue with a Russian angle in Ennis' event after Tatyana Chernova - aren't nearly all Russian villainesses called Tatyana? - upset the odds, usurped the Brit, and swiped the heptathlon gold medal from under her nose on Tuesday.

Chernova won with a magnificent tally of 6880 points, the best in the world since Carolina Klüft took the 2008 Olympic Games gold medal with 7032 points. Ennis now appears to be far from the Swede's automatically anointed successor.

Perhaps the world should have given Chernova more credit ahead of Daegu.

One day it was almost inevitable that the seven jigsaw puzzle pieces that make up the heptathlon would neatly fall into place for her.

After all, she had won at the

World Youth and World Junior Championships in the past and, at just 20, Chernova was a bronze medallist behind Klüft in Beijing.

She also has the best ever score established by a junior, albeit with several events assisted by wind-readings above the allowable limit for record purposes.

Now 23, almost exactly two years Ennis' junior to the day, notice was given 10 weeks ago that she was in great shape, mentally as much as physically given the demands of the heptathlon, when she set a personal best of 6773 points in

•Chernova

the Czech town Kladno.

It gave her just the right amount of recovery time to make an impact at the World Championships.

"I always enjoy competing in Asia, I won my world junior title and my Olympic bronze in Beijing and here is not that far away," Chernova told Russian reporters in Daegu.

"To be honest, when I crossed the finish line in the 800m, I thought to myself that the two days and the win had been very easy. However, I'm also aware of how much work and preparation I had done to get to this point.

"This is a good foundation from which I can launch myself into the Olympic year. This was my third World Championship and I learnt from my mistakes in the past (she failed to finish in 2007 and finished eighth in Berlin two years ago).

"This time, I came here with confidence in myself and my abilities. The turning point in the competition was the javelin but not so much for me but for Jessica Ennis, when she threw well below her capabilities.

Perhaps she panicked when she saw that I was throwing well," added the Russian.

Chernova believes that she has plenty of room for improvement, something which should also worry Ennis.

Despite equalling her 100m hurdles and 200m bests in Daegu and going into new territory with the shot she was also well down on her top marks in the long jump and javelin.

She could be the next woman to score more than 7000 points, a significant barrier in the heptathlon which only three women have ever breeched.

Chernova's rise could also worry all the 2012 Olympics Games memorabilia makers; they could be left with a lot of unsold Jessica Ennis mugs, badges and tea towels.

sponsors and also wants some time at home before embarking on 12 weeks of travel.

'I want to try to get two weeks at home and do a few things before I head off on that big run,' he told European Tour radio.

Lee Westwood has yet to make up his mind whether to play - his last appearance was 2003 - but with Mark Foster in line for a debut he commented: 'It would be nice if Worksop had two people there.'

Luke Donald, Graeme McDowell, Ian Poulter, Martin Laird and Justin Rose are likely to miss it because of the FedEx Cup play-offs in America.

ERRARI star Fernando Alonso considers current world champion Sebastian Vettel a great champion.

In an interview with the German Sport Bild magazine, the two—time world champions sang the young German’s praises. “Sebastian is a great champion, who is in the process of winning his second title.

“He has a lot of talent and the capability of withstanding pressure.”

Alonso, who won the world championship in 2005 and 2006 with Renault, said he did not think that anybody could seriously challenge Vettel, who has a 92—point lead from his Red Bull team—

mate Mark Webber.

Alonso, who is third a further ten points behind, said that Vettel was the overwhelming favourite; “I certainly would put my money on him.”

The Spaniard said he had no problems with Vettel, whose contract with Red Bull runs until 2014, joining Ferrari.

“A lot of drivers want to come to Ferrari. Sebastian would definitely be welcome.”

Alonso stressed though that he was very happy with his team—mate Felipe Massa. “But one day, why not. If you have not driven for Ferrari, your career is not complete,” he said.

•Alonso

SLIDING TACKLE "It is a big challenge, a different challenge, fresh for me and I want to see myself on the biggest stage, the Champions League.

I am 29 years old so I haven't got much time left to take a chance like this one. I think I have done my best for Everton.

I always try hard, I have been as professional as I could and I was grateful for the support and the love that the club and the fans showed me.”

50

New Arsenal signing, Mikel Arteta explaining it was the right career choice to leave Everton for the Gunners.

Friday, September 2, 2011

Record £710million spent during Premier League transfer A

NALYSTS h a v e revealed that 2011 was a record year for Barcla ys Premier League transfer spending, with a staggering £710million being spent over the course of the year.

Research by the Deloitte group shows that Premier League clubs spent £485million this summer - an increase of 33% on last year's spending - and £225million in January, making this year a record for transfer expenditure.

Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City and Manchester United have all spent over £50million on signing players this summer alone as football continues to defy the economic difficulties experienced by the rest of the country.

The previous record spending level was £675million in 2008, when Sheik Mansour's takeover of Manchester City heralded a new era of spending at Eastlands which has not stopped since. Analysts put the record down to increased expectations among top clubs and predict that the high

C

Venus pulls out, Sharapova through

• Aguero spending will continue.

"Apart from last year, summer spending has held up around this £400million-£500million mark. That seems to be the norm for the last four or five years and there is no compelling reason to think why it's going to drop," said Dan Jones, partner in the Sports Business Group at Deloitte.

"Football is not immune to what is going on in the wider economy but it is pretty resistant to it. Football's revenues are continuing to increase and I don't think it will fall.

"This is a record calendar year because if you look at the top five clubs they have all had reason to spend.

"There is a new-ish manager at Liverpool, a new manager at Chelsea, ambitious owners at Manchester City, a team looking to refresh in Manchester United after a lot of retirements, and Arsenal needed to spend too."

Liverpool were one of the most active clubs in the transfer market this summer, with Craig Bellamy completing his return to Anfield from Manchester City just minutes before Wednesday night's 11pm deadline.

Bellamy reveals Dalglish admiration RAIG Bellamy insists that the chance to work with Kenny Dalglish was an offer he could not refuse, having completed a deadline day switch to Liverpool.

The Welshman returned to the Reds after being deemed surplus to requirements at the Etihad Stadium by boss Roberto Mancini.

Now the 32-year-old has returned to the club he supported as a boy, and insists that working with Dalglish was an opportunity that he could not pass up.

"I've grown up with Kenny Dalglish, now to be signed by him is a massive honour," Bellamy told the club's official website.

"This is an exciting time. When Kenny took over, watching as a fan last season I got the buzz as well and it was great to see Liverpool end the season well.

"For me, the players they've signed this summer, there has been a lot of British which takes me back to when I started watching Liverpool. It looks so familiar to me and to be part of it is such a huge honour.

"To every Liverpool fan, Kenny is

US OPEN...US OPEN...

probably the best player ever to pull on the red shirt so that speaks for itself. He was the first player-manager to do the double and just how he conducted himself really."

The last time Liverpool won the title was during Dalglish's first spell as boss, and they have not won the league since the inception of the Premier League in 1992.

Arteta: I had to take Arsenal chance

N

FORMER champion Venus Williams withdrew from US Open as she revealed she is suffering from an autoimmune disease, while Maria Sharapova and Vera Zvonareva both progressed on the third day of action at Flushing Meadows.

The former world number one quit the tournament before her second-round match against Germany's Sabine Lisicki then released a statement explaining the extent of her health problems.

"I'm really disappointed to have to withdraw from this year's US Open," she said.

"I have recently been diagnosed with Sjogren's Syndrome, an autoimmune disease which is an ongoing medical con dition that affects my energy level and causes fatigue and joint pain.

"I enjoyed playing my first match here and wish I could continue but right now I am unable to. I am thankful I finally have a diagnosis and am now focused on getting better and returning to the court soon."

Third seeded Sharapova shifted into a higher gear as she overwhelmed unseeded Anastasiya Yakimova of Belarus with the loss of just • Venus two games to surge into the third round.

Soderling withdraws, Del Potro wins

EW Arsenal midfielder Mikel SIXTH seed Robin Soderling Arteta feels that it was the right of Sweden has withdrawn time in his career to leave Everton from the US Open due to and progress to playing for a club illness, while Juan Martin competing in the Champions League.

Del Potro won through in The Spaniard left the Toffees on deadline straight sets. day to join the north London outfit, signing Soderling was due to play a four-year contract after a fee thought to be Ireland's Louk Sorensen, a in the region of £10 million had been agreed qualifier, in a first-round between the two clubs. match on the Grandstand Prior to his departure to join the Gunners, court at Flushing Meadows.

Arteta told evertonTV: "It is a big The Swede's place in the opportunity for me and my family and I think it is the right time for me to take it.

"It is a big challenge, a different challenge, fresh for me and I want to see myself on the biggest stage, the Champions League.

"I am 29 years old so I haven't got much time left to take a chance like this one. I think I have done my best for Everton.

"I always try hard, I have been as •Del Potro professional as I could and I was grateful for the support and the love that the club•and Blatter the fans showed me.”

draw was subsequently taken by Rogerio Dutra da Silva of Brazil, who beat Louk Sorensen in four sets after the Irishman also retired, trailing 6-0 3-6 6-4 10.

The nature and extent of Soderling's illness was not immediately disclosed.

Soderling - the world number six - reached the quarter-finals of the US Open in both 2009 and 2010 and could have faced a potential last eight clash with Britain's Andy Murray.

Soderling's agent, Nina Wennerstrom, told Eurosport: "Robin is not well he fell ill last night. He has suffered stomach pains, headaches and has not been able to sleep.

WORLD ATHLETICS CHAMPIONSHIP...WORLD ATHLETICS CHAMPIONSHIP...

Farah, Lagat set up 5000m showdown AMERICAN Bernard Lagat ran like "a million bucks" to win his 5,000 metres heat at the World Championships in Daegu, while Britain's Mo Farah managed to stay out of trouble in a physical second heat to cruise into the final.

Berlin champion and world record holder Kenenisa Bekele, who returned from a twoyear injury lay-off only to limp out of the 10,000 on Sunday, had decided not to run and will instead focus on his preparations for the London Olympics.

Ethiopian Imane Merga flashed a wide grin at Farah as he sped past him to win the second heat in 13:37.96, and received a pat •Lagat on the back from the Briton for his efforts.

Semenya safely negotiates 800 heats SOUTH Africa's defending champion Caster Semenya declared herself "all okay" after safely negotiating the opening round of heats in the women's 800 metres.

The 20-year-old withdrew from last month's World Student Games because of a back injury and her

camp issued a statement before Daegu denying South African media reports that she was overweight and had fallen out with her coach.

On Thursday, she avoided trouble on the opening lap before hitting the front coming into the final straight and allowing Russian Mariya Savinova to catch her on the line, both being awarded a time of two minutes 01.01 seconds.

"It's all okay," Semenya said.

"I'm just focusing on the next round.”

51 FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

Vol 3 No. 143

Transformation: Nigeria’s new marketing strategy Chief Lugard Aimiuwu, President/Chairman, Governing Council, National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria (NIMN) is a transformation strategist. Where some Nigerians give up on the country because of the many challenges facing it, Aimiuwu sees light at the end of the tunnel. In this encounter with WALE ALABI at the institute’s Fellows Night, which held in Lagos, the expert speaks on marketing and how it can be used to turn the country around. Excerpts: Nigerian blood running in his veins try so hard as they did to sabotage and cancel a National Summit on How to actualise Nigeria’s golden Dream? Cybercrime must be uprooted now! All patriots must join hands in combatting it!

This year’s International Summit on Value Creation, holding at International Conference Centre, Abuja from October 5 to7, is yet another contribution planned by NIMN in support of Nigeria’s Transformation. The theme is: Project Nigeria: Raising the game. Resource persons lined up for the conference are internationally reputed professionals with cutting edge expertise. President Jonathan is expected to declare the conference open. Let us put our heads together using the forum provided by the summit to agree how to move Nigeria beyond the next level!

The cutting edge skills and talents of the distinguished and internationally respected Fellows of NIMN are being reorganised, harnessed, and funnelled creatively through a college which will constitute the main resource bank for the International Academy of Marketing, whose programmes have been redesigned to promote rapid transformation of Nigeria. This year’s Fellows’ Day is designed to celebrate the rare talents that this group of Nigerian professionals represents.

Unfolding the transformation agenda

T

HIS is the time for all well-meaning Nigerians, who have value to contribute, to speak up, ‘or forever hold their peace.’ The green light has been given by President Goodluck Jonathan. Value attracts value, rubbish attracts rubbish! The lecture podium this afternoon belongs to today’s guest speaker, our erudite Fellow, Mazi Mike Okereke. However, as President of the institute, as scheduled, on the occasion of Fellows’ Day, I must address the fellows of our great institute, who I am proud to say, are some of the best brains on this planet!

No country in history has defied the forces of gravity as Nigeria, a potentially great country at a very critical stage in its transformation curve. Rightly so, the word ‘transformation’ been the campaign mantra of our amiable President Jonathan, replacing hackneyed words, such as ‘rebranding’, ‘reform’, and ‘change’, in Nigeria’s political dictionary! The President means well and deserves commendation for settling for transformation as the management process to activate sea changes in the pace, quantum, and quality of Nigeria’s development. However, no one, no matter how powerful, can do it all. Nigeria can be truly great’ should be, and must become!

Winning edge of marketing

The wave of globalisation First, we must rid ourselves of the delusion that developments around the world have no place in Nigeria. With globalisation, the rest of the world is just next door. Afar is nigh, yonder is here, while tomorrow is yesterday! The root drivers of the Arab wave of discontent sweeping North Africa, and the Middle East, are not too dissimilar to the frustration felt here over the decades at the inability to shape their destinies by a populace that felt ‘bondaged’ by a cruel political class whose collective irresponsibility left them dehumanised, and hopeless.

However, the recent election was transformational to the extent that it produced unusual and untraditional outcomes – election of a once shoe-less child, of minority extraction, from the country’s smallest electoral state. It was a victory for the transformation-seeking electorate. However, the sweetness of victory very quickly gets swept away by memory decay, especially when astronomical expectations are not met commensurately, rapidly.The recent summer wave of discontent expressed in riots from London, through Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Leicester, Gloucester, and only a few days ago also in Philadelphia, may be explained away by British politicians as ‘hooliganism’, but really cannot be disconnected from the failure of governance, and of the larger society, rooted in the family. UK cannot paper over the discontent catching fire as leaders were ‘holidaying’, in a country where the richest 10 per cent are more than 100 times richer than the poorest 10 per cent! The statistics for Nigeria make you shudder, in a new globalised world where, before I conclude this sentence, over one million Nigerians would have ‘clicked’ on social media - Facebook, Twitter, BB Ping, etc. Have you seen the material making the rounds among the youth and the not so young about Assembly remuneration excesses? Can we ignore India Anti-Corruption protests swelling the streets of Delhi in the last few days, since August 16, under the leadership of Anna Hazare, the veteran anti-corruption crusader? Transformation cannot be postponed. Now is late already, but not too late! Nigeria is not hopeless!

No short cut to greatness Second, we must, as a people, extricate ourselves from the illusion that we are great. We simply are not! We had great kingdoms and empires in history, and we have great potential, but we must quit deluding ourselves right now. Greatness is clearly an unearned, undeserved, self-delusion. Greatness is achievable, but true greatness has to be earned. There is no short-cut to greatness, because things work only if we make them work and they work only as well as we make them! Wishful thinking will not achieve the Millennium Development Goals (2015) for us, neither will it yield the results of Vision 20 20:20! First, we must come to terms with the mathematical truism, that even when you are moving forward (ie making progress), you are moving backwards as long as you are outpaced by competition! Relative to our neighbours, based on 2010 UNDP HDR HDI, it would appear that while even our West African neighbours are progressing geometrically or exponentially, Nigeria is moving linearly or arithmetically.

Nigeria sits ‘majestically’ in the low human development category at number 142 in the world! Ahead of Nigeria, right next door, are Ghana 130, Cameroon 131, Benin 134, Togo 139!

•Chief Aimiuwu

While we must encourage our President to advance to the next phase of Transformation, far beyond sloganeering and manifesto, we must support him not only with constructive advice and criticism, but also by putting in place, programmes and events to catalyse the transformation process. Our Fellows must be ready to unleash all their cerebral and physical energy for the fatherland. If each one of us carved out for ourselves our little piece of Nigeria, in our work and in our play, and shaped it to the ideals of our dreams, the sum of all our effort will mathematically yield an aggregate Nigeria of our dreams. Transformation must start with each one of us!

Transforming Nigeria with marketing Marketing is the profession of transformation, and we have never shied away from fulfilling our responsibility and duty to Nigeria. Just last September 2010, despite determined efforts by a vicious cyber terrorist desperado gang of anarchists to sabotage the National Summit On Value Creation, marketers trooped to Port Harcourt despite death threats, and held a successful conference with the theme, Creative Strategies for Actualizing Nigeria’s Golden Dream. Marketers, by that action, demonstrated unquestionable patriotism, and passion for Nigeria’s development. As part of its determination to keep Marketing clean, some erstwhile members of the Institute who, with criminals at large, were implicated in the said cybercrimes including hacking the institute’s accounts, customer and membership records; cloning logo and using same for fraud and cyberterrorism; faking institute’s letterhead, and using same to impersonate Council and principal officers; fabricating and cooking figures to smear innocent law abiding officers and employees for refusing to succumb to blackmail; faking exams and certificates; blackmailing decent law enforcement officers; etc were delisted and blacklisted, and will be pursued relentlessly, lawfully, till they are put behind bars, no matter how long it takes and how much it costs.

Nigeria deserves a break from these despicable citizens who have no qualms whatsoever in sacrificing the nation for a pot of pottage.

We must say no to crime All Nigerians must rise and say no to this new economic cancer, Cybercrime, 419, scamming, and other specialities of this gang. It is your patriotic duty. The much sought-after investment will never come to an environment prone to Identity Theft, and the other crimes personified by this gang!. Why would any one with

As usual, I cannot conclude without sharing, through this medium, with members of the public, some clarifications on the profession of Marketing. What is Marketing all about? What is the trend worldwide? Why has the gulf between public and private sectors virtually disappeared in developed, and also rapidly developing countries? You listened to President Obama’s speech last week on the United States’market outlook following the downgrading by one rating agency (S & P) of USA’s AAA rating (enjoyed since 1917) to AA+. That was a marketing statement by a Marketing Director determined to maintain America’s competitiveness in an aggressively competitive globalised world. The public service generated that statement, not General Motors.The synchronised global soap opera, the economic meltdown, featured Markets tumbling in USA, shaky in Europe, and nervous everywhere else! Again see what happened in United States that prompted the Obama speech. They lost trillions in one day, and Europe is taking cue.

Marketing has become much too important to be ignored in the scheme of things. When the going gets rough, and people have to revisit first principles, go back to basics, question their fundamental ideologies, re-examine their values, and indeed undertake strategic reprofiling, re-define their vision, and try to re-chart their journeys through the labyrinth of chaos and confusion, to recapture the dream, actualize their goal or realize the ‘promised land’, their Marketing journey has just begun; for it is Marketing, more than any other profession, that enables us – •Know and measure the difference between what was and what is •Differentiate between what is and what can be •Distinguish between what can be and what must be •Define precisely the processes to actualise the goal (vision), starting from research, the innovation funnel, product/service development, branding, communication, through the supply and extended supply chains, customer management, service delivery, relationship management, till the ultimate satisfaction of customer and other stakeholders •Identify and instill the process disciplines needed for compliance through each stage of the value chain, to ensure effective application of best principles, to achieve best practices, and governance standards.

Marketing is the profession of transformation; always creating and delivering VALUE!

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

52

Brandnews

RIM unveils new BlackBerry series R

ESEARCH In Motion (RIM) has announced plans to launch five new BlackBerry® smartphones based on the BlackBerry® 7 Operating System (OS). RIM, in conjunction with carriers and distribution partners around the world, is rolling out two new BlackBerry® Bold™ models and three new BlackBerry® Torch™ models, all running the powerful new BlackBerry® 7 OS. The launch of this family of handsets will be RIM’s largest global launch ever and more than 225 carriers and distribution partners have already commenced or completed over 500 certification programs for these five new handsets.

Featuring RIM’s next generation of hardware and software platforms, these five new BlackBerry 7-based smartphones offer users a variety of designs to choose from and deliver the ultimate in communications, multimedia and productivity.

The new BlackBerry® Bold™ 9900 and 9930 are RIM’s thinnest smartphones ever, each offering a large keyboard and brilliant touch display. The new BlackBerry® Torch™ 9810 smartphone builds on the popularity of the BlackBerry® Torch™ 9800 and combines a large touch display with a convenient slide-out keyboard.

The BlackBerry® Torch™ 9850 and 9860 introduce an all-new, all-touch de-

sign featuring the largest display on a BlackBerry® smartphone to date.

“This is the largest global launch of BlackBerry smartphones in our history,” said Mike Lazaridis, President and Co-CEO of Research In Motion. “The BlackBerry solution offers a best-in-class mobile communications experience that customers love and we think they will be thrilled by the faster performance, enhanced browsing and richer multimedia delivered by these powerful new BlackBerry Bold and BlackBerry Torch smartphones.”

BlackBerry 7 introduces a next generation BlackBerry browser with a significantly faster, more fluid web browsing experience that is among the best in the industry.

Combining the dramatically improved performance of the advanced WebKit browser engine together with the powerful hardware enhancements found in the BlackBerry 7 based smartphones delivers browsing results that are up to 40 per cent faster than BlackBerry® 6 based smartphones and up to 100% faster than BlackBerry® 5-based smartphones*.

Additional enhancements to this next generation BlackBerry browser have also optimized zooming and panning for smoother web navigation and optimized HTML5 performance for incredible gaming and video experiences.

•From left: Speaker, Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly Samuel Ikon; Chief of Staff Godwin Afangideh, who represented Governor Godswill Akpabio; Chief Executive Officer, Billboard World Mrs Maureen Umanah, her husband, Aniekan and Ipoola Omisore of Lagos State House of Assembly, during the Billboard World Brands award in Lagos.

Cussons, hospitals partner on baby products

P

Z Cussons Nigeria Plc has kicked off a hospital campaign to promote its baby range, Cussons Baby Mild and Gentle.

The campaign, which was unveiled at the Isolo General Hospital, Lagos, will cover 300 hospitals and 200,000 mothers across the country.

Senior Brand Manager, Cussons Baby, Mrs Roseline Abaraonye, , said the campaign will create awareness for Cussons’ new and improved range for babies. “The new range is enriched with milk and chamomile

to nourish, soothe and calm baby’s’ tender and delicate skin,” she said.

The highlight of the event was the sampling of the new products by mothers at the hospital’s ante-natal and children’s wings. Some products were also distributed free to about 200 mothers.

Mrs Abaraonye also said Cussons Baby products have been proven to provide quality skin care for babies since the 1980s, and noted that it is endorsed by the Paediatrics Association of Nigeria. “We are inspired by

babies. This is why we have provided the latest and most innovative baby care products,” she said. “Our new improved formulation of Cussons Baby Mild & Gentle range will ensure quality skin care for babies.”

She added that plans are underway to make the product readily available for its teeming consumers, pointing out that PZ Cussons is expanding its distribution and visibility for the new baby range and developing point-of-sale centres across the country to make it accessible to all.

CAP assures on quality paints

T

HE Chemical and Allied Products (CAP) Plc makers of Dulux paints, has reiterated its commitment to providing all customers with high quality paints.

It said it will not only allow consumers to fully express themselves in colours and creativity, but give premium satisfaction .

Manager , Dulux’s Colour Centre, Mr Ogunfolaji Olugbenga, said during the tour of the centre that the product has adapted to domestic expectations as the firm has formulated different colour types to meet diverse opportunities and styles.

“The whole notion of the decorative paint industry is that it is a branded industry. This means that you distinguish yourself by what the brand means in the eyes of the consumers,” Olugbenga said.

He highlighted the benefits of a strong brand, including commanding major respect in the marketplace. “We also have to realise that in the deco•From left: Chief Financial Officer, Chellarams, Mr Kulkarni; MD, Culture Communications, Mr Yomi Benson; Mr Varma; Chief Executive Officer, Chellarams Group, Mr Aditya Chellaram; Mr Kapur and Chief Operating Officer, Chellarams, Mr Rahul Takalkar, cutting a cake during the event

KFC opens new outlet in Lagos

L

EADING Quick Service Restaurant brand, KFC has opened shop on Adeola Odeku Street, Victoria Island, Lagos. It will offer consumers a new and invigorating experience on its menu.

The outlet, the eighth in Lagos, is an attestation to the genuine intention and fulfilment of the corporate pledge of Devyani International Nigeria Limited as well as its parent companies, Chellarams Plc and RJ Corp of India, to continue to invest in Nigeria.

According to KFC’s Head of Marketing, Mr Vikram Varma, “our consumers appreciate quality, excellence and freshness of our mouth-water-

ing meals and that is the reason we will continue to bring our great tasting menu closer to them wherever they are.’’

KFC started operations in Nigeria in December 2009. Its first outlet was in City Mall (Onikan). Others are City Mall, The Palms, Allen Avenue, Surulere, Yaba, Ligali Ayorinde, Apapa and Adeola Odeku.

Devyani International Nigeria Ltd has continually upped the stakes in the provision of freshly made food that meets international standards, quality and processes.

Harland Sanders in Corbin, Kentucky founded Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) in 1930s. KFC, which

started as a 142-seat restaurant, has grown to be the largest chicken restaurant brand in the world; with 13,000 outlets in 118 nations, serving over 12 million people daily, and have set a benchmark in the QSR industry with its original recipe in fried chicken.

Chief Executive Officer of Devyani International Nigeria Limited, Mr Vishal Kapur, said: ”We will continue to increase our stores, strengthen our differential advantage and invest more in the Nigerian economy, thereby providing opportunities and replicating the ‘’so good’’ experience across the country for the benefits of our treasured consumers.”

rative paint business there is a lot of emotions going on. People who decorate their houses want to make sure it works, and they want the best in Dulux paints is a global brand that is highly respected by users.

“Dulux paints are designed such that when applying, minimal spillage is experienced. It is now possible to paint without the normal problem of stains on clothes and materials,” he added.

According to him, to complement the unique qualities of the paint, Dulux has application tools that ensure a perfect finish. The tools can be used to achieve normal and modern paint finish known as special effects.

Also speaking at the event, Marketing Manager, CAP Plc, Mr Dominic Oladeji , said the Dulux Colour Centre, is a one-stop shop where you can get quality paints and painting tools. He said over 12,000 colours can be chosen and tinted by the in-store tinting machine and mouse painter.

Winners emerge in Samsung promo

S

AMSUNG mobile, the mobile division of Samsung Electronics West Africa (SEWA), a wholly owned subsidiary of the consumer electronics giant, Samsung Electronics Company, has presented Harley Davidson Motorcycles to its four lucky winners in the Samsung Mobile Easter Galaxy Giveaway Promo.

The four winners had emerged in an earlier raffle draw conducted to reward loyal consumers for purchasing any of the Galaxy range of phones which includes Ace, Pro, Gio and Mini during the promo.

The presentation of the Harley Davidson Motorcycles is a follow-up to the draw and the fulfillment of the brand’s promise to her consumers and the general public.

Speaking at the event, Fady Khatib, Regional Director, Mobile Division, Samsung Electronics West Africa, said

the presentation is a demonstration of Samsung’s commitment to reward loyal consumers for their patronage and to make good its promise. Congratulating the winners, Khatib said it is always a privilege to reward loyal customers.

He said: “Consumers’response from all parts of the country to the Samsung Mobile Easter Giveaway Promo was overwhelming by all standards. The response was a demonstration of Galaxy Mobile brand due to its stylish design, functionality, reliability and rich applications”.

According to him: “Samsung Galaxy mobile phone range is ranked among the fastest selling Smart phones in the world. Any of the Galaxy Smartphone range is a smart buy any day with its rich features and over 2000 applications consumers can make a choice from.

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

53

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

54

LABOUR boss Expectant mothers in danger as strike disrupts Railway urges team work ante natal care T E

XPECTANT mothers in Adamawa State may be in danger following the near collapse of ante-natal care in public hospitals because of workers’ strike.

The women in Pakka community in Miha Local Government Area have decried the near absence of ante-natal services since the strike started.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), junior health workers went on strike in May following a disagreement with the state government over pay rise.

The workers are demanding the implementation of the Harmo-

Stories by Dupe OlaoyeOsinkolu

nised Salary Structure for Health Workers (HATISS), enjoyed by other categories of health workers in the state.

All the primary health care facilities in Maiha, Mubi Local Government Areas were aground, while nurses, midwives, laboratory assistants, cleaners, drivers and gardeners were nowhere to be found.

The situation has forced pregnant women to patronise private clinics,

while others travel long distances for care at the General Hospital, Mubi.

Some of the expectant mothers said the strike was exposing them to lifethreatening situations.

Mrs Joyce Danbaba, said she could not attend ante-natal clinic due to the strike.

“I can not afford to go to a private clinic, I now rely on traditional birth attendants in my village,” Joyce said.

Fadi Musa, an eight-month old pregnant mother, said she had exhausted the essential drugs and could

not get more, since the clinic in her community had not functioned in the past nine weeks.

“The drugs are given to us at the ante-natal clinic, but now there is no clinic and nobody to attend to me,” Fadi said.

She appealed for dialogue to end the strike.

Malam Nasir, the Chairman, Medical and Health Workers Union in Mubi, said the union would continue to press for their demands and enforce the strike.

“The strike will continue until our demands are fully implemented,” Nasir said.

Bank of Industry to create 1m jobs in Enugu

T

HE Managing Director, Bank of Industry, Mrs Evelyn Oputu, has said that the bank will create more than one million jobs in Enugu State within the next two years.

Oputu disclosed this at the recent inauguration of the South East Zonal Office of the bank in Enugu.

She said the bank would work toward ensuring that jobs were created for the youth in the state, since government had created an enabling environment for industrial development and that the bank would also engage women at the grassroots in its empowerment programmes.

Oputu explained that the idea of establishing the zonal office was as a result of the enabling environment created by the state government after the closure of its former office in Aba, Abia State.

“We decided to close down our office in Aba as a result of incessant threats and assassination of our staff.

• Governor Peter Obi and the Managing Director of the Bank of Industry, Mrs Evelyn Oputu at Enugu.

“The Southeast cannot be excluded from the economic emancipation of the country, and that is why we have come to establish our bank in Enugu.”

Gov. Sullivan Chime, who inaugurated the bank, promised that his administration would continue to support and partner with it for the development of the

state.

He said the partnership would ensure that the bank achieved its mandate of creating more than one million jobs in the state.

NSITF educates employers, labour on Employee Compensation Act

A

DMINISTRATOR of the E m p l o y e e s Compensation Act (ECA), the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), has embarked on an enlightenment drive to create awareness about the Act. To ensure compliance with the Act, employers and workers have been implored to step up record-keeping and information management so that workers who sustain injuries while working can receive their claims promptly.

Delivering a paper at a workshop organised by the Association of Food, Beverages and Tobacco Employers (AFBTE) on the new ECA 2010 in Lagos, the Secretary of Board/ Legal Adviser of the NSITF, Ibrahim Wakawa, identified lack

of proper data as a major impediment to prompt payment of benefits to workers in case of accidents.

He said NSITF has reinforced its Information Technology machinery to ensure adequate data management.

Listing the benefits of the Act which took effect from January, he said, it is an improvement on the former Workmen Compensation Act which only made provision for one-off payment, unlike the new Act which covers long term payment to workers who sustain injuries at the work place or in the course of their job, adding that the Act makes provision for rehabilitation of workers as well as putting in place measures to prevent accidents in the work place.

Executive Secretary, AFBTE,

Aderemi Adegboyega, enjoined NSITF to ensure clarity and timeliness on claims settlement, saying whereas the legislation gave employers 14 days to make their claim, it did not specify a time period within which NSITF would respond to the claims.

“We expect NSITF to raise the standard in terms of reliability, relationship and promptness to settle claims. We expect NSITF to come up with a time frame within which claims would be settled, just like the NSITF says if there is an accident, we should notify them within a particular period,” he said.

He also justified the increased contribution under the new scheme, saying: “The compensation under this Act is more generous in terms of the fact that it is supposed to provide

through the life of the employee as opposed to one-off payment.

It is understandable that the contribution would be more.

Apart from that, there is what they call experience account whereby, depending on the frequency of claims on the part of a particular employer or sector, the percentage may be adjusted upwards or downwards.”

Adegboyega also implored the government to urgently tackle the problem of power supply, saying it would lead to industrial revolution in the country.

According to the Act, employers are mandated to pay one per cent of their pay roll (basic, housing and transport allowances) to the NSITF which would in turn pay benefits to workers who sustain injury in the course of their work.

ILO to partner with Youth Ministry on job creation

T

HE International Labour Organisation (ILO) is to partner with the Ministry of Youth Development to create jobs for youths, its Executive Secretary, Mr Josmanuel Salazar, has said.

Salazar, who spoke when he visited the Ministry of Youth Development in Abuja, said ILO would

also work with the private sector on job creation.

“ILO already has policies in place for job creation and all we are going to do is to look at the ministry’s policies on such plans and see areas of possible collaboration.“ Earlier, the representative of the Minister, Alhaji Imama Abubakar, said the ministry’s focus was on job

creation, value re-orientation and advocacy.

He said the three areas would centre on rural employment, micro and small scale development, skills development and information service.

Abubakar said the ministry had already visited the six-geopolitical zones to select youths who would

be trained to enable them to benefit from the scheme.

He explained that the Federal Government had approved the establishment of the National Youth Fund which provides fund for the youth to start business.

The ILO also presented a document containing its plan of action to the ministry.

HE Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Mr Adeseyi Sijuwade, has urged the workers to work as a team to move the corporation forward.

“If there is a team spirit among the workforce, there will be celebration of success of the corporation which for some years has been comatose,’’ he said.

Sijuwade spoke at the training of 101 newly recruited senior officers of the corporation, including 32 former NRC employees who re-applied for jobs.

He urged the officers to be honest and transparent in their dealings for safety and reliability.

According to him, the vision of NRC is to be a world class rail transport organisation providing safe, efficient, affordable, reliable, widely linked network and customer-oriented service.

He said: “Our mission is to emerge as the leader in the Nigeria transport system using well-motivated workforce with modern technology to achieve the vision.”

The Director, Administration and Human Resources, Mr Aminu Gusau, urged the newly recruited officers to be partners in progress.

“I am very happy to be among the management and also to be a pioneer in moving the corporation forward,’’ said Gusau, who was among the 24 directors recruited in June.

Mr Adedeji Adewale, former Acting District Signal and Telecommunication Engineer, now promoted to Assistant Chief Signal and Telecommunications Engineer, thanked the management for the exercise.

He said the recruitment was a new revolution in the corporation, adding that it would prepare workers for the challenge to move the NRC forward.

Adewale said the officers would bring their experience in modern technology to bear on team that would help develop the corporation.

Commissioner advises on job creation

S

OKOTO State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Alhaji Ahmed Aliyu, has called on the Federal Government to accord priority to job creation in the interest of youths.

Aliyu told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Sokoto that unemployment and poverty posed a challenge to youth development, especially in crisis-prone areas of the country.

He said an effective policy on job creation for youths was the only solution to the current unrest in some parts of the country.

“He advocated that the National Directorate of Employment be encouraged and strengthened to train graduates in various trades. “ It is only by so doing that graduate unemployed youths can contribute positively to nation building, he said.

“Mr President should act now to reduce poverty through job opportunities for Nigerians,” he said.

Aliyu said over 250,000 youths had been trained by government under its skill acquisition programmes since the inception of the administration.

He said the beneficiaries were contributing to the political growth of the state.

“We will continue to initiate policies and programmes that will enable the people to contribute positively towards enhancing the socioeconomic and political development of the state,” he said.

The Commissioner enjoined youths being trained in various skill acquisition programmes to be dedicated to enable them become selfreliant.

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

55

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

56

MONEY LINK

No plan to nationalise any more banks, says AMCON

T

HE Asset Management Cor poration of Nigeria (AMCON) has refuted claims that plans are underway to take over two of the five banks that have signed Transaction Implementation Agreements (TIAs) with their core investors.

The Nation had learnt from a source who asked not to be named because of the sensitivity of the matter that there are underground plans to nationalise two more banks by government.

But AMCON CEO, Mustafa ChikeObi told The Nation yesterday that the claims were unfounded as the agency

By Collins Nweze

has no plans to bridge more banks.

“That is not true. I am not aware of plans to bridge any more banks,” he said.

The AMCON boss however, warned that if any of the banks is incapable of recapitalising itself, all other options must be on the table to protect depositors, employees and all stakeholders of these banks, adding that he was pleased with the steps the banks have taken in their recapitalization plans. “I am satisfied with the progress that the banks have shown so far,” he said.

Access Bank to conclude Intercontinental acquisition next year

A

the Nigerian Stock Exchange AllShare Index. Shares of Intercontinental Bank have been placed on technical suspension by the Exchange, which means that they can trade but the price cannot change.

Intercontinental was among the eight banks whose chief executives were fired by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in 2009 after a lending crisis threatened to collapse some of the deposit money banks in the country. The central bank bailed out the lenders with N620 billion and this year gave them a September 30 deadline to recapitalize, or face liquidation or nationalisation.

CCESS Bank will complete its acquisition of Intercontinental Bank Plc in October 2012. Access Bank’s Chief Executive Officer Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede who disclosed this to Bloomberg yesterday said by that time, the integration process of both institutions would have been completed. “The banks will become a ‘single entity’ then. Intercontinental shareholders can currently sell their stock to Access Bank at N2.75 each,” he said.

Access Bank’s shares yesterday, rose 1.1 per cent to N5.63 close in Lagos.

The stock has lost 41 per cent this year, outpacing a 14 per cent decrease in

given the banks a N679 Billion lifeline to enable them continue as a going concern.

However, the five remaining banks: Intercontinental Bank, FinBank, Oceanic Bank, Union Bank and Equitorial Trust Bank have signed TIAs with new core investors. Intercontinental have signed with Access Bank; FinBank with First City Monument Bank; Oceanic With Ecobank; Union Bank with African Capital Alliance Consortium while ETB signed with Sterling Bank.

The CBN said that TIA represents an irreversible level in the transaction plan, an indication that the deals will sail through.

The CBN also extended interbank guarantee for the five rescued banks till December 31, 2011. The apex bank said the extension was not meant to whip any bank into line, but to acknowledge concrete achievements

The CBN and Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) had in July 2009, carried out a special examination of all the 24 banks with aim of assessing their health, with particular focus on liquidity, capital adequacy, risk management and corporate governance practices. Ten banks were adjudged to be in grave states with deficiencies in capital adequacy. Of these, eight also had significant deficiencies in liquidity, risk management practices and corporate governance policies. The 10 banks got a lifeline of N620 billion in the form of Tier 2 Capital.

Three of the banks, Spring Bank (Enterprise Bank), Bank PHB (Keystone Bank), and Afribank (MainStreet Bank) were on August 5, handed over to NDIC which later sold them to the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON). The AMCON has

European Central Banks may cut rates

T

Parliament that the bank is reviewing its assessment of price risks after growth in the euro area slowed.

El-Erian, whose Newport Beach, California-based company runs the world’s biggest bond fund, said there’s “definitely” a risk that Europe will drag the rest of the world economy into a recession.

He put the odds of another contraction in the U.S. at somewhere between 33 percent and 50 per cent.

Growth in the 17-nation euro area slowed to 0.2 per cent in the

HE European Central Bank (ECB) will probably cut inter est rates as the chance of a recession in the euro zone has risen to 50 per cent, Mohamed El-Erian, chief executive officer of Pacific Investment Management Co., has said.

“I would expect the ECB to change course. They are going to be pushed to do so,” he told Bloomberg. The ECB has raised its benchmark interest rate twice this year, taking it to 1.5 percent, in an effort to keep inflation expectations in check. ECB President JeanClaude Trichet told the European

Tenor

Amount N

Rate %

M/Date

3-Year 5-Year 5-Year

35m 35m 35m

11.039 12.23 13.19

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

WHOLESALE DUTCH AUCTION SYSTEM Amount

Price Loss 2754.67 447.80

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

Amount

Rate %

Date

30m 46.7m 50m

10.96 9.62 12.34

28-04-2011 “ 14-04-2011

Year

Current

Start Offer

Before

After

NAHCO ZENITHBANK ETI FIDELITYBK AIRSERVICE GUARANTY ACCESS FIRSTBANK

O/PRICE

6.70 12.02 13.00 2.00 2.12 12.54 5.57 10.66

C/PRICE

7.00 12.40 13.40 2.03 2.15 12.70 5.63 10.73

CHANGE

0.30 0.38 0.40 0.03 0.03 0.16 0.06 0.07

LOSER AS AT 1-9-11 SYMBOL

O/PRICE

C/PRICE

147.6000

149.7100

150.7100

-2.11

NGN GBP

239.4810

244.0123

245.6422

-2.57

NGN EUR

212.4997

207.9023

209.2910

-1.51

MAYBAKER JAPAULOIL FLOURMILL LONGMAN UNILEVER NASCON DANGSUGAR DANGFLOUR CUSTODYINS UPL

4.00 1.00 80.00 5.00 28.00 4.60 11.30 10.11 2.65 4.08

3.80 0.95 76.00 4.75 26.60 4.37 10.74 9.61 2.52 3.88

0.20 0.05 4.00 0.25 1.40 0.23 0.56 0.50 0.13 0.20

452.7m 313.5m

450m 250m

150.8 150.8

08-8-11 03-8-11

400m

443m

400m

150.7

01-8-11

%

149.7450

154.0000

154.3000

-3.04

NSE

16-08-11

17-08-11

Change

CAP

N7.291tr

N7.297tr

+0.08%

Index

22,792.06

22,811.39

+0.08%

NIGERIA INTER BANK (S/N)

MEMORANDUM QUOTATIONS

Name

(S/N)

Parallel Market

153.0000

153.0000

155.5000

-2.30

154.0000

156.0000

-1.96

DISCOUNT WINDOW January ’11

February ’11

July ’11

MPR

6.50%

6.50%

8.75%

Standing Lending Rate

8.50%

8.50%

9.50%

4.50%

4.50%

5.50%

25.00%

25.00%

30.00%

1.00%

2.00%

2.00%

12.10%

12.10%

10.2%

,,

Deposit Rate

,,

Liquidity Ratio

Cash Return Rate CHANGE

Date

450m 250m

%

(S/N) SYMBOL

Rate (N)

C u r r e n t CUV Start

NGN USD

Bureau de Change 152.0000

GAINERS AS AT 1-9-11

Exchange

Sold ($)

CAPITAL MARKET INDEX

INTERBANK RATES 7.9-10% 10-11%

Amount

EXHANGE RATE 30-05-11 Currency

OBB Rate Call Rate

Amount

Offered ($) Demanded ($)

MANAGED FUNDS

NIDF NESF

second quarter from 0.8 per cent in the first with the German economy almost grinding to a halt -- as Europe’s debt crisis roiled financial markets and weighed on confidence.

The PIMCO executive and former International Monetary Fund official likened the financial turmoil in Europe to the subprime crisis in the U.S. Just as what happened in America, troubles that began in a small part of the economy with questions about Greece’s finances in 2009 are spreading elsewhere.

DATA BANK

FGN BONDS

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

• Chike-Obi

by the successful banks.

Meanwhile, Union Bank of Nigeria Plc has secured approval for its court-ordered meeting.

Inflation Rate

NIBOR Tenor

7 Days

Rate (Previous)

Rate (Currency)

04 MAR, 2011

24, MAY, 2011

9.0417

10.17%

Offer Price Bid Price

ARM AGGRESSIVE 9.17 KAKAWA GUARANTEED 1.00 STANBIC IBTC GUARANTE 117.62 AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUND 112.11 THE LOTUS CAPITAL HALAL 0.81 BGL SAPPHIRE FUND 1.01 BGL NUBIAN FUND 0.97 NIGERIA INTERNATIONAL DEB. 1,620.90 PARAMOUNT EQUITY FUND 9.61 CONTINENTAL UNIT TRUST 1.39 CENTRE-POINT UNIT TRUST 1.87 STANBIC IBTC NIG EQUITY 8,827.74 THE DISCOVERY FUND 193.00 • ARM AGGRESSIVE • KAKAWA GUARANTEED • STANBIC IBTC GUARANTE • AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUND

Movement

9.08 1.00 117.16 111.89 0.79 1.01 0.97 1,618.90 9.14 1.33 1.80 8,557.73 191.08

OPEN BUY BACK Previous

Current

04 MAR, 2011

07, MAR, 2011

30 Days

9.6667

11.46%

60 Days

11.2917

11.96%

Bank

8.5000

8.5000

150 Days

12.1250

12.54%

P/Court

8.0833

8.0833

Movement

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

57

EQUITIES Stock market opens on negative note

NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 1-09-11 2ND-TIER SECURITIES AGRICULTURE/AGRO-ALLIED Company Name FTN COCOA PROCESSORS PLC LIVESTOCK FEEDS PLC PRESCO PLC Sector Totals

No of Deals 1 1 10 12

Company Name AIRLINE SERVICES AND LOGISTICS PLC NIGERIAN AVIATION HANDLING COM PLC Sector Totals

No of Deals 8 105 113

Quotation(N) Quantity Traded 0.50 6,600 0.50 5,000 7.50 187,300 198,900

Value of Shares (N) 3,300.00 2,500.00 1,394,349.00 1,400,149.00

AIR SERVICES Quotation(N) Quantity Traded 2.15 129,360 7.00 866,585 995,945

Value of Shares (N) 275,877.20 5,743,637.22 6,019,514.42

AUTOMOBILE & TYRE Company Name R. T. BRISCOE (NIGERIA) PLC Sector Totals

No of Deals 10 10

Company Name ACCESS BANK PLC DIAMOND BANK PLC ECOBANK NIGERIA PLC FIRST CITY MONUMENT BANK PLC FIDELITY BANK PLC FIRST BANK OF NIGERIA PLC FINBANK PLC GTBANK PLC STANBIC IBTC BANK PLC INTERCONTINENTAL BANK PLC. OCEANIC BANK INTERNATIONAL PLC SKYE BANK PLC. STERLING BANK PLC UNITED BANK FOR AFRICA PLC. UNION BANK OF NIGERIA PLC UNITYBANK PLC WEMA BANK PLC ZENITH BANK PLC Sector Totals

No of Deals 215 114 65 66 104 497 15 437 88 8 4 101 52 343 15 15 83 309 2,531

Company Name GUINNESS NIGERIA PLC INTERNATIONAL BREWERIES PLC JOS INTERNATIONAL BREWERIES PLC NIGERIAN BREWERIES PLC Sector Totals

No of Deals 71 4 2 113 190

Quotation(N) Quantity Traded 1.31 35,028 35,028

Value of Shares (N) 43,865.00 43,865.00

BANKING Quotation(N) 5.63 4.00 2.85 5.04 2.03 10.73 0.50 12.70 9.04 0.70 1.15 5.38 1.40 4.11 2.09 0.55 0.75 12.40

Quantity Traded 18,671,212 13,505,393 1,545,893 2,576,835 8,191,039 15,512,731 4,532,800 10,755,723 9,829,209 44,677,943 72,000 3,377,017 3,951,222 12,316,476 433,919 1,001,731 2,212,214 17,087,140 170,250,497

Value of Shares (N) 104,541,663.37 52,599,981.40 4,407,946.85 12,995,609.49 15,979,853.74 163,937,614.73 2,266,400.00 136,023,212.23 88,140,036.68 31,274,560.10 82,800.00 17,525,439.89 5,484,623.76 49,228,528.79 906,890.71 551,190.89 1,619,466.25 209,692,917.17 897,258,736.05

Quantity Traded 172,612 52,000 1,020,000 597,101 1,841,713

Value of Shares (N) 37,176,641.49 304,200.00 2,305,200.00 47,701,254.07 87,487,295.56

BREWERIES Quotation(N) 215.00 6.15 2.26 79.02

BUILDING MATERIALS ASHAKA CEMENT PLC 29 CEMENT CO. OF NORTHERN NIGERIA PLC 23 DANGOTE CEMENT PLC 62 LAFARGE WAPCO PLC 46 Sector Totals 160

19.58 7.36 104.00 41.00

100,646 212,346 395,217 257,609 965,818

1,964,112.53 1,526,360.20 41,100,444.28 10,226,962.20 54,817,879.21

8,000 61,900 105,062 900 1,009 176,871

24,080.00 582,479.00 2,803,666.24 963.00 4,903.74 3,416,091.98

2,700 1,858,829 1,861,529

1,350.00 4,925,896.85 4,927,246.85

CHEMICAL & PAINTS AFRICAN PAINTS (NIG.) PLC BERGER PAINTS NIGERIA PLC CHEMICAL AND ALLIED PRODUCTS PLC PAINTSANDCOATINGSMANUFACTURESPL PORTLAND PAINTS & PRODUCTS NIG PLC Sector Totals

5 5 20 1 1 32

3.16 9.90 26.50 1.12 5.11

COMMERCIAL/SERVICES COURTVILLE INVESTMENTS PLC RED STAR EXPRESS PLC Sector Totals

2 12 14

0.50 2.65

COMPUTER & OFFICE EQUIPMENT NCR (NIGERIA) PLC. THOMAS WYATT PLC TRIPPLE GEE AND COMPANY PLC Sector Totals

1 1 7 9

4.12 1.38 3.25

A. G. LEVENTIS (NIGERIA) PLC PZ CUSSONS NIGERIA PLC SCOA NIGERIA PLC TRANSNATIONAL CORPN OF NIG PLC UAC OF NIGERIA PLC UNILEVER NIGERIA PLC Sector Totals

2 49 1 50 46 42 190

2,600 1,100 4,183 7,883

11,232.00 1,452.00 12,925.47 25,609.47

CONGLOMERATES 1.99 29.10 6.11 0.81 39.00 26.60

10,000 554,386 100 8,368,506 211,340 327,858 9,472,190

19,800.00 16,101,355.06 581.00 6,778,489.86 7,943,037.05 8,747,869.40 39,591,132.37

T

HE Nigerian stock market reopened yes terday into the waiting hands of the bears, which bit off N63 billion from investors’ monies; after a two-day holiday marking the Eid-ul- Fitri- the celebration of the end of a month-long fasting by Muslims.

The downtrend yesterday exacerbated concerns that the third quarter may end with double-digit negative return as against initial optimism of a gradual recovery from the third to fourth quarter.

Aggregate market capitalisation of all quoted companies dropped from N6.876 trillion to N6.813 trillion while the All Share Index (ASI) slipped to a new lowest index point at 21,299.55 points as against 21,497.61 points, representing a drop of 0.92 per cent.

The market was overtly bearish with 36 stocks on the slackers’ list as against eight advancers.

Ecobank Transnational Incorporated led the few gainers with a gain of 40 kobo to close at N13.40. Zenith Bank added 38 kobo to close at N12.40 0.38 while Nigerian Aviation Handling Company garnered 30 kobo to close at N7.

Other gainers were Guaranty Trust Bank, with a gain of 16 kobo to N12.70; First Bank of Nigeria, 7.0 kobo to

N10.73; Access Bank, 6.0 kobo to N5.63; Fidelity Bank, 3.0 kobo to N2.03 while Air Services added 3.0 kobo to close at N2.15.

On the other hand, Flour Mills of Nigeria topped the losers’ list with a loss of N4 to close at N76.Nigerian Breweries followed with a drop of N2.98 to close at N79.02 while Dangote Cement dropped N1.56 to close at N104.

Also, Unilever Nigeria lost N1.40 to close at N26.60; PZ Cussons dropped by 90 kobo to close at N29.10, Dangote Sugar lost 56 kobo to close at N10.74, Dangote Flour dropped by 50 kobo to close at N9.61 while Cadbury Nigeria lost 37 kobo to close at N16.59.

Turnover stood at 243.61 million shares worth N1.32 billion in 5,698 deals. Banking sector accounted for 170.25 million shares valued at N897.26 million in 2,531 deals. Insurance sector followed with a turnover of 31.68 million shares valued at N19.22 million in 1,512 deals.

Meanwhile, the management of Dangote Sugar Plc yesterday released the interim reports and accounts of the sugar-refining company for the first and second quarter of this year.

NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 1-09-11 LAW UNION AND ROCK INSURANCE PLC. 12 MUTUAL BENEFITS ASSURANCE PLC 1 N.E.M. INSURANCE CO. (NIG.) PLC. 61 NIGER INSURANCE CO. PLC. 3 PRESTIGE ASSURANCE PLC. 2 REGENCY ALLIANCE INSURANCE COM PLC 1 SOVEREIGN TRUST INSURANCE PLC 2 STACO INSURANCE PLC 2 INTERCONTINENTAL WAPIC INSUR PLC 9 Sector Totals 1,512

15 30 45

2.66 55.11

No of Deals 6 6

133,752 339,472 473,224

338,392.56 18,091,521.00 18,429,913.56

Quotation(N) Quantity Traded 2.18 88,660 88,660

Value of Shares (N) 193,278.80 193,278.80

FOOD/BEVERAGES & TOBACCO Company Name No of Deals 7-UP BOTTLING CO. PLC 18 CADBURY NIGERIA PLC 48 DANGOTE FLOUR MILLS PLC 41 DANGOTE SUGAR REFINERY PLC 67 FLOUR MILLS NIGERIA PLC 48 HONEYWELL FLOUR MILL PLC 5 NATIONAL SALT COMPANY NIGERIA PLC 9 NESTLE NIGERIA PLC 52 NORTHERN NIGERIA FLOUR MILLS PLC 1 TANTALIZERS PLC 3 UTC NIGERIA PLC 15 Sector Totals 307

Quotation(N) 45.00 16.59 9.61 10.74 76.00 4.40 4.37 402.00 22.61 0.50 0.55

Quantity Traded 63,860 372,524 344,168 1,145,508 656,980 6,739 724,000 65,752 59 22,000 1,807,354 5,208,944

Value of Shares (N) 2,777,966.96 6,057,483.90 3,307,454.48 12,379,331.04 49,967,301.84 28,169.02 3,163,880.00 26,419,905.90 1,267.32 11,000.00 994,044.70 105,107,805.16

HEALTHCARE EKOCORP PLC EVANS MEDICALPLC. FIDSON HEALTHCARE PLC GLAXOSMITHKLINE CONSUMER NIG. PLC MAY & BAKER NIGERIA PLC. NEIMETH INTL PHARMACEUTICALS PLC PHARMA-DEKO PLC Sector Totals

1 15 14 11 8 17 1 67

CAPITAL HOTEL PLC Sector Totals

5 5

5.31 0.94 1.67 27.00 3.80 1.40 3.87

4,100 406,783 313,000 66,175 111,573 1,293,460 314 2,195,405

20,705.00 382,376.02 527,234.32 1,747,998.50 423,977.40 1,810,844.00 1,161.80 4,914,297.04

3,181,146 3,181,146

23,858,595.00 23,858,595.00

HOTEL & TOURISM 7.50

INDUSTRIAL/DOMESTIC PRODUCTS Company Name B. O. C. GASES NIGERIA PLC VITAFOAM NIGERIA PLC VONO PRODUCTS PLC Sector Totals

No of Deals 4 24 4 32

Quotation(N) 7.10 5.72 2.88

Quantity Traded 110,000 213,529 331,750 655,279

Value of Shares (N) 781,000.00 1,215,688.88 955,440.00 2,952,128.88

INFORMATION & COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY Company Name CHAMS PLC STARCOMMS PLC Sector Totals

No of Deals 1 2 3

Quotation(N) Quantity Traded 0.50 1,200,000 0.50 402,500 1,602,500

Value of Shares (N) 600,000.00 201,250.00 801,250.00

INSURANCE Company Name AIICO INSURANCE PLC. CONTINENTAL REINSURANCE PLC CORNERSTONE INSURANCE CO. PLC. CUSTODIAN AND ALLIED INSURANCE PLC GOLDLINK INSURANCE PLC GUARANTY TRUST ASSURANCE PLC CONSOLIDATED HALLMARK INSUR PLC INTL ENERGY INSURANCE COMPANY PLC

No of Deals 1,383 1 1 12 5 15 1 1

Quotation(N) 0.62 1.02 0.50 2.52 0.50 1.07 0.50 0.50

4,324,599 1,925 15,050,165 22,800 12,653 150 1,226,000 1,385,000 502,904 31,679,267

2,162,299.50 962.50 7,525,082.50 11,400.00 19,865.21 75.00 613,000.00 692,500.00 251,452.00 19,221,128.00

LEASING No of Deals 11 11

JAPAUL OIL & MARITIME SERVICES PLC Sector Totals

79 79

AFROMEDIA PLC Sector Totals

4 4

Quotation(N) Quantity Traded 0.94 1,760,500 1,760,500

Value of Shares (N) 1,654,870.00 1,654,870.00

MARITIME

ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY Company Name CUTIX PLC Sector Totals

0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 1.65 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50

Company Name C&I LEASING PLC Sector Totals

CONSTRUCTION COSTAIN (WA) PLC JULIUS BERGER NIGERIA PLC Sector Totals

The reports indicated that the company recorded a turnover of N21.5 billion in the first quarter with an operating profit of N3.2 billion while turnover and gross profit stood at N46.8 billion and N7.4 billion respectively by the end of first half.

The management of the company said the performance of the company was hampered by high cost of raw materials and continued sluggish operating economic environment.

According to the company, the continued credit squeeze and its effect on purchasing power affected distributors and other customer’s volume during the period.

However, the company said the recent downward trend in the price of raw sugar in the international market and the introduction of the company’s new retail Dangote Viitamin A fortified sugar packages in one kilogramme, 500 grams and 250 grams would see the company recording a better performance in the period ahead.

The board of the company said with continued implementation of its strategic policies and improved operating efficiencies, high turnover and improved margin are expected before the year runs out adding that all the stakeholders would see a positive trend in its subsequent performance.

By Taofik Salako and Tonia Osundolire

Quantity Traded 5,435,721 1,000 100,000 1,206,179 1,450,000 459,671 500 500,000

Value of Shares (N) 3,376,546.82 1,000.00 50,000.00 3,039,571.08 725,000.00 502,123.39 250.00 250,000.00

0.95

3,279,994 3,279,994

3,115,994.30 3,115,994.30

MEDIA 0.51

465,689 465,689

237,501.39 237,501.39

MORTGAGE COMPANIES Company Name ABBEY BUILDING SOCIETY PLC ASO SAVINGS AND LOAND PLC RESORT SAVINGS AND LOANS PLC UNION HOMES SAVINGS AND LOANS PLC Sector Totals

No of Deals 1 1 1 22 25

Quotation(N) 1.44 0.50 0.50 0.50

Quantity Traded 1,640 500 2,500 4,410,750 4,415,390

Value of Shares (N) 2,361.60 250.00 1,250.00 2,205,375.00 2,209,236.60

OTHER FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS ROYAL EXCHANGE PLC Sector Totals

9 9

0.50

Company Name NIGERIAN BAG MANUFACTURING COM PL BETA GLASS CO. PLC POLY PRODUCTS (NIGERIA) PLC. Sector Totals

No of Deals 49 1 4 54

25,655 25,655

13,044.34 13,044.34

PACKAGING Quotation(N) 1.98 12.71 1.05

Quantity Traded 155,425 887 2,200 158,512

Value of Shares (N) 297,299.25 10,714.96 2,310.00 310,324.21

PETROLEUM(MARKETING) BECO PETROLEUM PRODUCT PLC MRS OIL NIGERIA PLC CONOIL PLC ETERNA OIL & GAS PLC. FORTE OIL PLC MOBIL OIL NIGERIA PLC. OANDO PLC TOTAL NIGERIA PLC Sector Totals

1 7 15 19 7 21 119 21 210

0.50 63.86 34.36 4.25 17.41 148.00 28.75 203.32

600 3,486 46,443 678,593 16,896 53,950 374,696 11,219 1,185,883

300.00 212,058.66 1,593,653.49 2,759,815.72 279,459.84 7,585,370.00 10,742,224.03 2,263,646.15 25,436,527.89

PRINTING & PUBLISHING ACADEMY PRESS PLC. LONGMAN NIGERIA PLC UNIVERSITY PRESS PLC Sector Totals

3 5 19 27

3.17 4.75 3.88

25,773 203,878 229,042 458,693

77,834.46 968,420.50 893,882.96 1,940,137.92

REAL ESTATE UACN PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT CO. PLC 9 Sector Totals 9

19.69

19,437 19,437

363,666.27 363,666.27

TEXTILES Company Name UNITED NIGERIAN TEXTILES PLC Sector Totals

No of Deals 4 4

Quotation(N) Quantity Traded 0.58 116,798 116,798

Value of Shares (N) 67,742.84 67,742.84

THE FOREIGN LISTINGS Company Name ECOBANK TRANSNATIONAL INCORPORATED Sector Totals Overall Totals

No of Deals

Quotation(N) Quantity Traded

24 24

13.40

631,310 631,310

5,694

243,408,660

Value of Shares (N) 8,086,745.10 8,086,745.10 1,313,901,707.21

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

58

NEWS Akwa Ibom CP re-deployed

F

ACTS have emerged that the Force Headquarters in Abuja may have re-deployed the Akwa Ibom State Commissioner of Police, Felix Uyanna.

Uyanna’s re-deployment is coming shortly after lawmakers in the House of Assembly passed a resolution that he should leave the state within 48 hours.

The lawmakers said Uyanna had lost grip of security in the state, following the spate of robbery and kidnap cases.

The motion to re-deploy Uyanna was moved by the member representing Itu State Constituency, Mrs. Ekaette Ebong Okon and seconded by Kufre Etuk (Uruan Constituency).

Speaker Sam Ikon (Etinan

Constituency) directed the Clerk, Mrs. Mandu Umoren, to forward the resolution to the Inspector General of Police, Hafiz Ringim.

A senior police officer, who pleaded anonymity, confirmed the re-deployment.

He said: “He has even handed over to his deputy, pending when a new commissioner is posted to the state.”

But police spokesman Onyeka Orji said he was not aware of Uyanna’s redeployment.

He said the command would issue a statement as soon as it receives clearance from the Force Headquarters on the re-deployment of the police boss.

Oshiomhole visits victim’s family

E

DO State Governor Adams Oshiomhole has assured the family of kidnapped Chairman of Tomline Conglomerate Tes Soare that he will be released unharmed.

He, however, urged security agencies to ensure that the kidnappers are arrested.

Oshiomhole spoke through the Deputy Governor, Pius Odubu, who led other state officials to the Soare family.

“We are saddened with what has happened. We will do everything to ensure

Strike grounds Delta hospitals

From Kazeem Ibrahym, Uyo

From Osagie Otabor, Benin

that Soare is released.

“Security agencies have been briefed to ensure that he is released unharmed and the kidnappers arrested.”

“We are committed to protection of lives and properties,” the governor said.

The victim’s younger brother, Ben, begged Oshiomhole to ensure that his brother is released.

Soare was abducted last Sunday; his wife, Bridget, two orderlies and driver were killed.

M

EDICAL services in Delta State public hospitals were paralysed yesterday, following a strike by doctors and laboratory scientists.

The doctors, who are protesting against what they described as “insensitivity” of the authorities to their demands, began the strike on Tuesday.

Members of the Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria (AMLSN) are protesting imposition of an alleged non-licensed Medical Laboratory scientist to head the laboratory department of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Asaba.

Other grievances, according to AMLSN Chairman Anthony Asiodu, include non-implementation of AMLSN scheme of service.

The Chairman of the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), Dr Ferdinand Oshonwoh, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) yesterday that one of their demands was the removal of a top official of the Hospital Management Board.

Protest at Psychiatric Hospital in Edo From Osagie Otabor, Benin

W

ORKERS of the Federal Psychiatric Hospital, Uselu, Edo State yesterday embarked on a peaceful protest.

They accused the management of high handedness, harassment of union leaders and non-payment of workers’ outstanding arrears and allowances.

The workers, comprising National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives of Nigeria (NANNM) and Senior Staff Association (SSAUTHARIAI), urged President Goodluck Jonathan to prevail on the management ‘to desist from acts capable of provoking a massive crisis situation’.

A statement by the chairmen of NANNM and SSAUTHRIAI, Peremofobo Yoh and Osamuyi Oriakhi, alleged that a union leader was arrested and detained for being in possession of the hospital’s nominal roll.

But the Chief Medical Director, Dr Olabisi Ihenyen, said the hospital does not owe workers.

Mrs. Ihenyen said some of the workers wanted to use the protest to distract the on-going verification.

“Some of them entered here with fake results; we are doing verification with WAEC . They are just trying to cause crisis when there is none, she said.”

From Okungbowa Aiwerie, Asaba

Oshonwoh said the official had introduced ‘’repressive and draconian policies’’.

The NARD chairman said some of the policies being adopted by the board violat-

ed existing laws on workers’ welfare.

He said allowances of officers, including out-of-station entitlements, were no longer paid.

Oshonwoh accused the board of introducing attend-

ance register for doctors and described the policy as “alien” to medical practice.

Efforts to reach the Commissioner for Health, Dr Joseph Otumara, were fruitless, as calls to his mobile telephone were not picked.

Text messages were also not replied.

At FMC, over 100 diabetic and 50 hypertensive in-patients have been sent home.

The fate of 50 HIV/AIDS patients due for routine test today hangs in the balance.

Out-patients were turned back.

Operations at the hospital’s blood bank have been stopped.

Asiodu, who regretted the suffering of patients, said the strike was in response to apathy by the management to consider the welfare of its members as priority.

He said the warning strike would precede an all out strike, and urged the Federal Ministry of Health to prevail on the management to implement the scheme of service and withdraw the circular on the headship of the medical laboratory.

Edo holds 20th anniversary mass

E

DO State Government yesterday held a thanksgiving mass to end the 20th anniversary celebrations of the state’s creation.

Representing Governor Adams Oshiomhole, Deputy Governor Pius Odubu said the task of building the state had been enormous and thanked the people for their support.

The governor said: “There will be mudsling-

ing and blackmail because when you are determined to make a change, people will vilify you, but by the grace of God, this administration will come for a second term and we will move the state to El-Dorado.”

The governor thanked the Oba of Benin for his continued support and commended security chiefs for their efforts in securing the state.

Sylva submits list of nominees

B

AYELSA State Governor Timipre Sylva has submitted a list of more commissioner-nominees to the House of Assembly.

The list contains six new nominees and six former commissioners.

Returning are: Bekeakpo Etifa; Mrs. Gimbra Pinaowei; K.D Francis; Nathan Egba; Maxwell Okoh and Kesiye Frank-Oputu.

The new faces are: Ikemike Olaitari; Christiana Ebeli; Powell God-

From Isaac Ombe, Yenagoa

knows; Asuka Tuwemi; Dr. Benson Dadiki and Emomotimi Kpou.

They are expected to appear before the House on Tuesday.

The governor had sworn in nine commissioners.

These are for Finance, Budget and Economic Development, Agriculture, Environment, Attorney General, Works and Transport and Lands and Housing ministeries.

•Obudu flanked by former Governor John Odigie-Oyegun (right) and Secretary to the State Government (SSG) Simon Imuekemhe at the Government House Chapel…yesterday

Engaged couple, nine others die in road accident

A

N unidentified couple, said to be going for their wedding, and nine others have been reportedly killed in a road accident at Okada junction on the Benin-Ore-Lagos Road.

The accident, involving a commercial bus belonging to Peace Mass Transit Company and a truck, occurred at about 4pm.

Editors hold conference in Benin

T

HE Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has scheduled its seventh All Nigeria Editors Conference for Benin, Edo State, from September 21 to 25, a statement said yesterday.

The NGE General Secretary, Isaac Ighure, said no fewer than 300 editors from the electronic and print media are expected at the conference.

Its theme is “Deepening Democracy: The Role of the Editors”.

He said some deserving editors would be conferred with the fellowship of the Guild. Former Senate President Ken Nnamani will chair the conference.

The publisher of ThisDay, Chief Nduka Obaigbena, is to co-chair the conference.

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Attahiru Jega, will deliver the keynote address.

From Osagie Otabor, Benin

Four survivors are receiving treatment at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH).

One of the survivors, who identified himself as Anthony Ndubuisi, a South Africa-based footballer, said the Onitsha-bound bus took off from Ojuelegba Motor Park

in Lagos with 17 passengers, including two children.

Ndubisi said the accident could be attributed to over speeding and recklessness.

He said the driver tried to overtake another vehicle when it ran into an oncoming trailer.

“I was going to Asaba to finalise arrangements for a trip to Europe, where I hope

to pursue my career. Just see where I ended up.”

National Coordinator of Save Accident Victims of Nigeria (SAVAN) Eddy Ehikhamenor said 10 of the victims were brought in dead. The 11th passenger, a young boy, died in the hospital.

The remains of the victims were evacuated by men of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).

My problem with Uduaghan not personal, says Clark From Okungbowa Aiwerie, Asaba

•Clark

I

JAW National Leader Chief Edwin Clark has said he is not averse to reconciling with warring factions within Peoples Demo-

cratic Party (PDP) in Delta State.

Clark spoke when the PDP Truth and Reconciliation Committee visited him at his country home at Kiagbodo, Burutu Local Government.

The ruling party has been embroiled in crises since 2007, following accusations that ex-Governor James Ibori imposed his cousin, Emmanuel Uduaghan, as governor.

The PDP chieftain thanked

the group for the visit, pointing out that genuine reconciliation was imperative to improve the fortunes of the party in the state.

Clark lamented the poor outing of PDP in some parts of the state during the April elections.

He said in 1999, 2003 and 2007, the party swept the polls.

He said President Goodluck Jonathan and the national leadership of PDP were in support of reconciliation with aggrieved

party members across the country, adding that all must work to return Delta PDP to its past glory.

“PDP is not owned by one person; we are all members of PDP. Anybody who is against reconciliation is an enemy of the party.

“My problem with Uduaghan is not personal but political,” he asserted.

Chairman of the Committee Cairo Ojougboh, on behalf of members, commiserated with Clark on the death of his daughter.

59

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

NEWS Orji to mark first 100 days

Abia Transport strengthens security

From Ugochukwu Eke, Umuahia

From Ugochukwu Eke, Umuahia

HE management of Abia Line Network Transport Limited has acquired about 30 metal detectors to detect guns and other dangerous weapons used by criminals to attack passengers.

Addressing reporters, the General Manager [GM] of the company, Ikechukwu Apugo, said in the wake of the constant security breaches in the country, the firm has decided to equip its loading bays with the security gadgets to protect lives and property of passengers.

Apugo said: “We decided to buy the metal detectors to checkmate armed robbers who may want to enter our buses to attack our passengers.”

He said the security personnel of the transport company are being trained to manage the security equipment, adding that every one entering their buses must be subjected to body search to avoid problems on the highway.

The GM said the new management of the Abia state transport company has acquired 44 new buses for more routes they are opening, “because when I came onboard, I met only 38 functional buses, while other ones are on franchise and the percentage from franchise is only 15 per cent which cannot sustain the company.”

T

Nine governors for New Yam fiesta

G

OVERNOR Peter Obi of Anambra State will, tomorrow, host the southeast and Southsouth governors at Igboukwu in Aguata Local Government at this year’s New Yam festival.

The ceremony will be chaired by the President of the Apex Igbo Socio-cultural Organisation, Ohaneze Ndigbo, Chief Raph Uwechue.

The New Yam festival in Igboland, which officially began in 2005, is aimed at promoting the culture and tradition of Ndigbo.

In a statement yesterday in Awka,the President- General of Igboukwu Development Union, Rob Nwakaire Ezeife, said the festival, which began on Wednesday, will end tomorrow.

According to the statement, the Minister of Culture, Tourism and National Orientation, Edem Duke is expected to be the Special Guest of Honour.

The governors of Abia, Ebonyi, Enugu, Imo, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Bayelsa, Delta and Rivers States are expected to be the guests of honour.

In 1998, the Federal Government approved the hosting of an annual National New Yam Festival in Igboukwu in recognition of the effort by Mbido Igbo Association to promote the culture and tradition of the people.

A National Yam House was built in Igboukwu by the Federal Government for the event.

• From left: Chime, Kalu, Governor Peter Obi of Anambra State and Governor Theodore Orji of Abia State…yesterday

Southeast Economic Summit: Igbo leaders lament S

OUTHEAST leaders assembled yesterday in Enugu to discuss the way forward in the economic growth of the region.

They agreed that all is not well with the region.

The two-day Southeast Economic Summit held at the Nike Lake Resort.

Former Senate President, Ken Nnamani, accused the southeast of being the architect of its economic misfortune.

Nnamani said until the people come together and reprioritise their needs, their problems would continue.

He regretted that Igbo had made themselves laughing stock in the country by their inability to come together and speak with one voice.

“It’s really unfortunate that we have continued to cry wolf when we have in our activities and conduct made ourselves the laughing stocks of other people. We hardly speak with one voice. It has

From Chris Oji, Enugu

continued to be difficult for us to have a consensus on any opinion and this has indirectly affected us adversely in our national acceptance,” he said.

Nnamani urged them to entrench new values and team spirit.”

The Summit Chairman, Dr U.Kalu, lamented the economic situation of the Southeast, which he said is presently at its lowest ebb and as such needs to be revived by its leaders.

He said: “Our infrastructure is the worst in the country, qualitative education can only be imagined, no meaningful federal presence in the zone, while insecurity has become the order of the day.”

The summit had provided the opportunity for the people to do a soul searching with a view to finding the best ways

of addressing the challenges facing them.

Governor Sullivan Chime, who declared the summit open, said the essence of the Summit was not necessarily to pass the buck or apportion blames, but to highlight the pitfalls and chart a new roadmap for the rejuvenation of of our zone.

He expressed dismay over what he described as the fatal collapse of “our proud heritages- from Enugu coal to Nkalagu cement, from Aba textile to the dwindling fortunes in agriculture and food production. From the menace of erosion to sundry security concerns, the zone has endured some ugly times.”

“We’ve assembled here today not only to brainstorm on how best to recreate the glory of the zone but to take concrete steps that will place the Southeast at the leadership of the nation’s economic devel-

opment. Let this day mark the beginning of the awakening.If we start today to collaborate and strategise, that needed economic rebirth of our zone and nation would have started in earnest.”

“We are all fully conscious of the gains of this dialogue.

That clearly explains why the Southeast Governors, without hesitation, approved the initiative of this Economic Summit and signed the Memorandum of Understanding,” he said.

Chime said: “My message to you, my dear brothers and sisters, is that our dream for a safe and prosperous Southeast calls for sacrifices from us all, as we pursue our common destiny and identity. From politics to the economy, from tourism to agriculture, culture, education, health and other sectors, let us resolve today to work and pray together to achieve those ideals and legacies that will benefit generations yet unborn.”

Uwazuruike, 280 others freed

L

EADER of the Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB) Chief Ralph Uwazuruike and 280 other members of MASSOB were freed yesterday after eight days incarceration in Enugu Prison.

The Magistrate, Dennis Ekoh, struck out the case after prosecuting lawyer Victor Emeribe applied that the charge be withdrawn.

Former President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo and exChief Judge of Enugu State, Igwe Eze Ozobu, was present yesterday.

From Chris Oji, Enugu

The court session was held in an open car garage.

Defence counsel, Clement Obiekwe, hailed the court. He informed the court that they have had such cases five times at the Federal High Court in Enugu and Awka, but they were not prosecuted.

He said they were arrest by the police to frustrate them and pleaded with the police “to learn how not to disgrace the country.”

“We are being disgraced abroad by the frequent arrest of people and charging them

to court on felonious charges.

It is the same thing they did to Abiola. A man who was harmless. Other countries will be laughing at us,” the lawyer said.

There was jubilation among them and the large crowd cheered the MASSOB members up. They danced and rendered Biafran tunes.

Uwazuruike was taken away by Justice Ozobu (rtd)to his residence. The MASSOB leader, who looked unruffled, said: “We are now going to showcase a stronger crusade. We are stronger than before and many Igbo people who were against us are

now joining us, having realised that the igbo have no place in Nigeria.”

He alleged that all the policemen posted to the Southeast are members of the Boko Haram, including the police commissioner. “I have evidence to prove that if they want me to do that. We shall continue our peaceful crusade until we achieve the Sovereign State of Biafra.”

On the treatment he and his members received in Enugu Prison, the MASSOB leader said it was a pleasant experience. “The man there was good to us. He gave us all we asked for.”

Court issues Bench warrant against PDP

A

MILD drama played out at an Onitsha Magistrate Court yesterday as a bench warrant was issued for the arrest of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain Chief Chuks Okoye for forgery.

It was gathered that Okoye and Benji Udozor, a factional chairman of the PDP in the state, are standing trials for document forgery related offences.

The counsel to the first and second defendants, C.O

From Adimike George, Onitsha

Adimorah, had earlier told the court that the absence of Udozor was on the ground of ill health, adding that his client was bed-ridden. He promised to produce him on the next adjourned date.

He also filed a motion urging the court to discontinue with the case on the ground that the prosecuting counsel was not supposed to appear in the court, a plea struck out on the ground that before such motion could be

granted, the first and second defendants must be present in the court.

However, the prosecuting counsel, Rotimi Jacobs, swiftly objected to the motion of the defense counsel on the ground that it was a deliberate ploy to waste the time of the honourable court.

He said there was no excuse for the absence of the first and second defendants in the court after they had been duly served with court papers and prayed the court

to discard their application.

The presiding Magistrate, C.F Nweze, after listening to both parties said since the first and second defendants were absent in court, there was no need for the court to grant the motion.

He, however, admitted the medical certificate tendered by the first defendant that his client was bed-ridden but asked that by the next adjourned date, a hand written medical certificate must be produced by the defense counsel.

GOVERNOR Theodore Orji of Abia State will mark his first 100 days in office, the Special Adviser to the governor on Electronic Media, Ugochukwu Emezue, has said.

He described Orji’s first 100 days in office as rewarding, having started his new tenure with dedication and thanksgiving to God. Emezue said the way his boss started his second term in office has gone a long way to tell the people that whatever he will do in office as their governor would be anchored on God. Speaking with The Nation in Umuahia, Emezue said the governor has delivered good governance to the people.

He said Orji started his second tenure with the procurement of 10 waste disposal trucks, “which were meant to keep the state, especially Aba, clean.”

Emezue said the governor would be inaugurating Ochendo Housing Estate on Adelabu Street and the Legislative Quarters at old Umuahia, adding that these estates will provide shelter for the people.

Mimiko, others for Anglican synod ONDO State Governor Olusegun Mimiko and Senator Iyiola Omisore were among the guests at the second session of the first synod of the Anglican Church, Diocese of Idoani, Ondo State.

The theme of the synod which began yesterday is: “Christ Our Perfect Example.” It is holding at the St. Mark’s Anglican Church, Owani-Idoani, and being presided over by Rev. Ezekiel Bolarinde Dahunsi.

A statement by the Diocesan spokesman, Obiniran Isaac, said there would be alaunching of the Bishop’s Charge, a Diocesan Endowment Fund, and a Clergy Welfare Fund.

The synod will end with a thanksgiving service on Sunday, with wife of Ondo governor, Olukemi Mimiko, as a special guest.

Cleric seeks good leadership

By Tajudeen Adebanjo

NIGERIAN leaders have been urged to be creative, purposeful and decisive and evince selflessness and steadfastness.

Lagos Metropolitan Grand Knight Sir Patrick Ikemefuna gave the admonition at a lecture to mark the first anniversary of the creation of Maryland SubCouncil of the Knights of Saint Mulumba (KSM).

Ikemefune, in a paper titled KSM Leadership Challenges in a Sub-Council, enjoined Nigerian leaders to always exhibit exemplary conduct in every station of their lives to acquaint themselves creditably.

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

60

NEWS Plateau workers begin strike From Marie-Therese Peter, Jos

P

LATEAU State civil servants yesterday began an indefinite strike over the failure of the government to implement the N18,000 minimum wage.

The state branch of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) had given the government up till last Wednesday to implement the new salary regime or face an indefinite strike.

The chairman of the NLC, Comrade Jibrin Bancir, his Trade Union Congress (TUC) counterpart, Comrade Ade Akinbo, and the leader of the Joint Negotiation Council (JNC), Comrade Yusuf Zambuk, in a joint statement, said the strike is “total”.

A visit to the secretariat showed that only the security men were at the gates as the premises were deserted.

Yuguda sets up anti-corruption board

T

HE Bauchi State Government has set up an anti-corruption board to monitor government’s financial transactions, the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to Governor Isa Yuguda, Chief Ishola Adeyemi, has said.

Adeyemi told reporters in Bauchi yesterday that the anti-graft board was set up in line with a law by the House of Assembly.

The new body is called the Bauchi State Anti-Corruption Board.

The board is vested with the powers to receive, investigate and prosecute any government official accused of corruption as contained in Section 13 of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offenses Act 2000.

Adeyemi said: “According to the provisions of the law, the unit shall consist of an Executive Chairman; representatives of the State House of Assembly; Ministry of Justice; and Office of the

From Austine Tsenzughul, Bauchi

Head of Service and Office of the Secretary to State Government.

“Others members include Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Anti-Corruption; and five others with proven integrity, to be appointed by the governor.

They will hold office for a period of four years in the first instance and may be eligible for re-appointment for another four years at the instance of the governor.”

He said the law also provides for the establishment of an Anti-Corruption Unit in each ministry, parastatal, department and local government, with not more than five members.

Yuguda had, at several fora, reiterated the commitment of his administration to tackling corruption to ensure transparency and accountability in the affairs of the state.

Kwara ACN to security agencies: avoid PDP, INEC lines

K

WARA State Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) has urged the police and other law enforcement agencies to avoid being used to interfere with the administration of justice.

The state Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had disowned one of ACN’s witnesses who testified against the commission at the Governorship Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Ilorin, the state capital.

In a statement by its Chairman Kayode Olawepo, the party said:

From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

“For the past one week or so, the Kwara PDP and the state INEC have engaged in a needless campaign of calumny against one of the witnesses, an INEC ad-hoc staff, who gave evidence in support of our case before the election petition tribunal.

“The evidence of the witness is subjudice. It is the tribunal that will determine the truth or falsity of that witness, both as to his identity and the contents of his evidence. The place to discredit the witness was in the tribunal; the at-

‘The evidence of the witness is subjudice. It is the tribunal that will determine the truth or falsity of that witness, both as to his identity and the contents of his evidence’ tempt now to discredit him is a clear interference with the due administration of justice.

“Accordingly, we the ACN and the other petitioners in the case, out of

respect for the rule of law and the authority of the tribunal, will refrain from joining issue with the Kwara PDP and the state INEC. “We will not join issue with them over their desperate and totally unwarranted invitation to the police to arrest the said witness, our party chairman and our governorship candidate, Mohammed Dele Belgore (SAN), over the use and testimony of the witness before the tribunal.

“We continue to remain law-abiding and urge the Kwara PDP and the state INEC to do same.”

Tension in Kano over rumour of violence •Police chief urges calm From Kolade Adeyemi, Kano

T

HERE was tension yesterday in Kano following the rumour of violence in some parts of the metropolis.

Residents ran helter-skelter for fear of being attacked.

The rumour began to spread after some residents ran to catch a glimpse of the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Ado Bayero, who was on the traditional Eid-el-Fitri homage to the Government House.

Many residents hurriedly closed their shops and offices for fear of attacks.

They headed to areas perceived to be safe.

Police Commissioner Ibrahim Idris, who confirmed the rumour, told reporters that the police had drafted officers and men to check the situation.

He said: “People acted on the impulse of the moment without asking questions. They took to their heels without asking questions. What people should always have in mind is that they are free to pursue their normal business anywhere in the country.

“I think it’s just a misunderstanding that occurred in a part of Kano metropolis. The Emir was driving to the Government House and people were running to catch a glimpse of him. Some people sighted those running and, without asking questions, started closing their shops and running.

This caused the panic.

“I want to assure the people that we are everywhere, we have put a lot of units on patrol. I call on the good citizens of this state to disregard any unscrupulous rumour and they should not be stampeded in doing things that will disturb the peace and tranquility of this state.”

He said the Eid-el-Fitr celebration was held across the city without any hitch, adding “thousands of people are on the street with a lot of festivities going on in the city”.

The police chief said proactive measures were taken to ensure that the Sallah celebration was peaceful.

Idris said: “We draw our units on special duties from outside the state. That is why you see a lot of security officers on the streets. From the beginning, we took some proactive measures.

“We have foreigners everywhere in Kano doing their normal business. So, I don’t see the reason why people should have a mindset that Kano is not their state. It’s a constitutional right and nobody should be afraid.”

He urged journalists to collaborate with the police in changing the mindset of the residents who believed that violence could break out any time.

Kano has a history of ethno-religious violence, but the of police chief allayed the fears of the residents.

He said: “There is no cause of alarm, as the police are combat-ready for any eventuality. I am assuring every citizen in this state both indigenes or non indigenes that their rights will be protected.”

•Ondo State Governor Olusegun Mimiko (right) watching as a member of the state Independent Electoral Commission (ODIEC), Mrs Joke Adebusoye, takes her oath of office at the inauguration of the commission members in Akure... yesterday

Emir accuses politicians of supporting thugs

T

HE Emir of Bauchi, Alhaji Rilwanu Adamu, has accused some prominent politicians in the state of standing bail for thugs arrested by the police for breaching the peace.

He spoke when he paid homage to Governor Isa Yuguda for the traditional Eidel-Fitri celebration.

The emir said such habit encouraged the thugs, known

as “Sara-Suka”, to continue to breach the peace.

He told the governor that the residents did not support the activities of the thugs and therefore urged the government to check them.

The monarch praised the government for protecting lives and property of the residents, urging the residents to cooperate with security agen-

cies to maintain peace.

He asked the government to introduce skills acquisition programmes for inmates of the Bauchi Central Prison to enable them become self-employed after their jail term.

Adamu also appealed to the state government to hasten the construction of some roads in the state, including Gumau-Rishi-Rahama-

Kadana, Durum-RautaTakandar-Giwa, and BununuBurga-Dhul.

Yuguda said his administration would continue to pay adequate attention to security because of its importance to the lives of the people.

He urged the people to complement government’s efforts by exposing suspicious characters.

FCTA orders integrity test on Abuja UN building

T

HE Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) will soon begin an integrity test on the devastated United Nations (UN) Office in Abuja to ascertain the state of the structure.

The FCT Minister, Senator Bala Muhammed, spoke when he visited the building yesterday.

He said the test would enable the government to take informed decision on the next line of action to get the place back on track.

The minister promised that a reputable company would be contracted to conduct the test to assess the extent of damage on the building.

From Bukola Amusan, Abuja

Muhammed said the FCTA was working out ways of getting alternative office for the UN agencies using the common office to enable them continue their services in the country.

The minister also visited the National Hospital, where some of the victims of the bomb blast were on admission, to wish them a quick recovery.

He encouraged them to have faith and see what happened to them as a sacrifice for peace and common good of the humanity.

Muhammed promised that the government would

provide the best medical care to aid their speedy recovery.

He directed the FCT Secretary of Health and Human Services, Dr. Onakomaiya Ademola, to attend to the personal needs of the victims, particularly the cleaners and local security men who are not on the employ of the UN. The minister said the Federal Government had begun the installation of close circuit television (CCTV) to cover the Federal Capital City, Abuja.

To ensure that government is on top of security situation in Abuja, Senator Mohammed disclosed that henceforth the FCT Admin-

istration will convene a security meeting every fortnight to compare notes.

“We will be more proactive in intelligence gathering to nip any security challenge in the bud,” he said.

The UN Resident Coordinator and UNDP Resident Representative, Mr. Daoudu Toure, who conducted the minister round the UN building, said 130 persons sustained various degrees of injury during the blast.

The minister was accompanied by the FCT Chief of Staff, Alhaji Musa Umar Yashi; Dr. Onakomaiya Ademola, as well as other top government functionaries.

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

61

NEWS ICAN president backs six-year single term

Army urged to be loyal to Constitution

From Emma Mgbeahurike, Owerri

NATIONAL President Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN),Prof. Francis Ojaide has described the proposed six year single tenure as the best way to move the country forward.

Ojaide, leading members of the organisation on a courtesy visit to Imo State Speaker Benjamin Uwajumogu at the assembly complex, Owerri, argued that a single term of six years would be enough for any aspiring politician to positively impact with his policies rather than waiting for second tenure to do it.

The ICAN chief said that the vice chancellors of universities have a five-year spend single term in office and they use it to pilot the affairs of their respective varsities after which they will quit the scene.

Ojaide said they were at the Assembly to felicitate and thank the lawmakers for the able way they have been carrying out their legislative functions.

Restating that ICAN would support public execution for all corrupt public servants, he maintainined that such measure would help reduce corruption in the society.

He called for partnership between governments in the country to ensure injecting strategic fiscal discipline and accountability in different sectors of the economy and improve on the gross domestic product of the country.

Responding, the speaker commended ICAN for appreciating the activities of the assembly.

While calling for partnership with the state government to achieve maximum results, he said budgeting and planning were the activities of lawmakers.

He told his visitors that the Federal Government has suspended discussion on the six year single tenure The speaker described the issue as a political that must be sold to the people properly.

He assured that the Federal Government has gone back to the drawing board to adjust the issue of six year single tenure.

From Yusufu Aminu Idegu, Jos

T

HE immediate past General Officer Commanding (GOC), 3 Armoured Division, Jos, Maj-Gen Sunday Idoko, has asked officers and men of the division to remain faithful to the country and the Constitution. Gen Idoko, who spoke yesterday at the handing over of the affairs of the division to his successor Maj Gen Adamu Buba Marwa in Jos said: “If you want to excel in your career as a soldier of the Nigerian Army, you have to be loyal to the Constitution and President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“Your loyalty must be total, there is no half loyalty in the military profession. Your loyalty has to be hundred per cent and that is the best way you can serve your country” But he noted the infiltration of the military by some bad eggs.

“It is unfortunate that in spite of our disciplinary tradition, we still have bad eggs in our midst,” he said, urging such bad eggs to ’’have a change of mind and I urge the disciplined ones among you to keep working hard”.

“It is only hardwork that can make you succeed in your career and apart from that put the interest of Nigeria first and far above religious and tribal interests.”

In his remarks, the new GOC, Maj Gen Adamu Buba Marwa also emphasised the importance of loyalty by soldiers and urged officers and men of the division to continue to work hard in view of the the current security challenges across the country.

Maj Gen Idoko is now GOC 82 Division Enugu.

Maj.-Gen. Marwa signing the hand-over note.... yesterday

400 Nigerians languish in Chinese prisons, says envoy

Babangida recants on Obasanjo •Blames reporters for overheating polity ORMER Military president General Ibrahim Babangida is singing a different tune on his recent stand-off with former President Olusegun Obasanjo. He blamed the press for pitching the two of them against each other.

Babangida, in firing the first salvo against Obasanjo, had dismissed as a waste, the $16 billion earmarked for power projects between 1999 and 2007 by the administration of Obasanjo.

Obasanjo immediately replied and called Babangida a fool while Babangida in a counter reaction described Obasanjo as a bigger fool.

The verbal war took place last month during Babangida’s 70th birthday.

The stand-off incensed many Nigerians who called them names.

However, Babangida on Wednesday night said what the press reported was not “what l meant”.

F

From Jide Oritunisin, Minna “That was not what l meant. This (report) has made me to lose some of my friends. No thanks to you journalists”, he said after paying a Sallah visit, in the company of another Military Head of State General Abdulasalmi Abubakar to Acting Governor Ahmed Musa Ibeto of Niger State in Minna.

He said Obasanjo was his boss and remained so even now.

He said the press and not politicians, is overheating the polity, Contributing to the interview, Abubakar advised the media to be mindful of their stories, urging them to avoid reports that can overheat the polity. But when told that politicians should be blamed for overheating the polity, Babangida interjected, and said: “No, no you (journalists) are the ones overheating the polity; even

recently you (Journalists) overheated me.”

Babangida said the way the press handled the standoff was unimaginative and wasteful.

On his alleged plan to remarry, Babangida said: “At 70, you are talking of wedding bells? Forget it”.

The former military leader told their host that their visit was in accordance with tradition as he and Abdulsalami always pay homage to the governor during Sallah celebration to wish him well and to offer advice to the government.

He said: “We are here to pay homage to the governor, as a tradition we have adopted and we hope to continue to do it as long as Allah spares our lives we will continue to come, to nudge and to encourage you to continue the good work you have been doing for the state.”

Responding the acting governor appreciated the

•Obasanjo two leaders for their visit and promised that the government will continue to rely on the wealth of experience of these leaders, saying, “ we are proud to have the two of you in this state and we will continue to depend on your goodwill and experience.”

No Nigerian was attacked by TNC in Libya , says minister

T

HE Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Olugbenga Ashiru yesterday said no Nigerian has been attacked or harassed by the forces loyal to the Transitional National Council (TNC) in Libya .

Ashiru said although those attacked by some unscrupulous elements in Libya were Nigeriens and Malians, the Federal Government has asked the TNC to check violence against Black migrant workers.

He said: “We have made necessary contacts and verification, no Nigerian has been harassed or attacked in Libya.

“This development was

From Yusuf Alli, Managing Editor, Northern Operation

confirmed by our former Ambassador to Libya. So, Nigerians in Libya are safe.

“I can only add that we can confirm now from the contact made that those attacked were Nigeriens and Malians.”

He however explained that the government was in touch with the TNC leaders on the need to protect Black migrant workers.

He said: “The Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria wishes to note with concern reports of incessant abuse of helpless civilians in Libya by some unscrupu-

lous elements who continue to take undue advantage of the ongoing crisis in that country, particularly to carry out attacks on Black migrant workers and other Black Africans stranded in Libya arising from the crisis in that country.

“Regrettably, these reports revealed outright killings, rape and extortion of money from these helpless Africans who have taken refuge in camps as well as those in detention and incarceration.

“This development is a deviation from the overall expressed desire of the TNC, the African Union and indeed the United Nations for the restoration of democra-

cy and good governance in Libya .

“These extra-judicial killings certainly run contrary to Nigeria ’s call for the leadership of the TNC to be magnanimous in victory and can only stand in the way of peace building, early reconciliation and reconstruction in Libya .

“While confirming that the concern of the Nigerian government on this reported development has accordingly been brought to the urgent attention of the representative of the TNC, the government seizes this opportunity to call on the leadership of the TNC to immediately take steps to check the excesses of these

unscrupulous elements in Libya in order to pave the way for the restoration of genuine democracy and true reconciliation for all Libyans.

“Nigeria reiterates its support not only for the yearnings for political freedom by the Libyan people , but also in the ability of the leadership of the TNC to restore order in the Libyan society at the shortest possible time.

“Government believes that the immediate task for the enthronement of democracy, rule of law, political and socio-economic reconstruction and development in Libya should be carried out without hindrance.”

NO fewer than 400 Nigerians are languishing in Chinese jails and one of them was recently executed by lethal injection, Nigeria’s Ambassador to China Aminu Wali, said yesterday.

Wali told a group of Nigerian reporters in Beijing yesterday that most of the convicts were tried for hard drug related offences.

He added that another Nigerian recently had his death sentence suspended and could finally have it commuted to life imprisonment following the intervention of the embassy.

“Something is wrong with our value system,” he said, adding that he was arranging a stakeholders’ meeting with leaders from one of the geo-political zones where most of the convicts come from.

He lamented that the embassy usually gets to know about this group of Nigerians only after their arrest.

The envoy said: “As we speak, one of my consular officers is on a prison visit to meet convicted Nigerians or suspects still undergoing trial.

“This embassy was earlier today informed of another arrest and before the end of the day, up to five such letters may be received here.”

According to him, he has been visiting Nigerian convicts in Chinese prisons personally on a quarterly basis and ensuring that they are fairly comfortable by donating money for their needs.

He said some Nigerians sell their passports after running into difficult times in China and would only remember their embassy when arrested.

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

62

FOREIGN NEWS Brothers of Togolese leader face coup trial

Police ban ‘regime change’ rally in Uganda U

GANDAN police have banned a rally to celebrate the overthrow of North African leaders, saying it could incite violence.

Opposition group Activists For Change called the rally for Friday to “celebrate people power in North Africa”.

It printed a flyer, suggesting that Uganda’s long-serving President Yoweri Museveni could also be deposed.

A government crackdown on protests in April killed nine people.

Police spokesman Vincent Sekate said the rally had been banned because of a dispute over the venue.

“Furthermore, the purpose of the rally is likely to

incite the public into violence,” he said.

In the Activists For Change flyer advertising the rally, the photos of the ousted leaders of Tunisia, Egypt and Libya are crossed out, with Mr Museveni - who has been in power since 1986 lined up as the next to fall.

Uganda has been rocked by a wave of protests since Mr Museveni was re-elected to office in February in a poll denounced as fraudulent by opposition groups.

The opposition organised a series of protests against the rising cost of living in Uganda.

Mr Museveni accused the

LOSS OF DOCUMENT Please be informed that the original letter of offer Ref: MH/EST/MIH/ILORO/01251 dated 10TH MARCH 2010 issued to Mr. OWOADE OLABISI

by Lagos State Ministry of Housing got missing.

All efforts to trace the document proved abortive if found, please contact Mr. Olalekan Adio on 08033134722. Thank you.

protesters of plotting an Egypt-style uprising and warned that they could be jailed.

In April, nine people were killed after the security forces intervened to end the protests.

The main opposition leader, Kizza Besigye, was assaulted, arrested and charged with inciting violence.

The charges were later dropped.

Mr Museveni has been a staunch critic of the Nato-led military intervention in Lib-

T

•Museveni ya, saying it could trigger an arms race in the region.

He urged the opposition to enter into dialogue with Col Muammar Gaddafi to resolve differences.

WO half-brothers of Togo’s president have gone on trial, accused of plotting to stage a coup in 2009.

Former Defence Minister Kpatcha Gnassingbe was arrested as he sought refuge in the United States embassy after the alleged coup attempt.

He is accused of masterminding the alleged coup plot, along with his brother Essolizam.

Faure Gnassingbe took power in 2005 following the death of his father, who had ruled Togo for 38 years.

President Gnassingbe was

Zimbabwe MPs shun circumcision call

Z

IMBABWE’S male Members of Parliament are not enthusiastic about a call for them to be circumcised to set an example in the fight against Aids, the BBC has found.Deputy Prime Minister Thokozani Khupe made the call, following evidence that circumcised men are 60% less likely to get infected with HIV. Of eight MPs the BBC spoke to, only one said he would heed her suggestion.

One called it “madness”, while another said he was setting a good example through

his behaviour.

Zimbabwe is one of the countries worst hit by Aids and the government last year launched a campaign to circumcise up to 80% of the country’s young men - some three million people.

The World Health Organization is encouraging men to get circumcised following studies in other African countries.

Aids experts, however, warn that using a condom, abstaining from sex or being faithful to one partner offer far greater protection against

HIV infection.

Minister of National Healing Moses Mzila Ndlovu told the BBC’s Brian Hungwe in Harare that some of his cabinet colleagues had described Ms Khupe’s suggestion as “madness” and “bizarre”.

“I don’t see many takers but I’m not stopping anyone,” he said.

His colleague Nelson Chamisa said it should be a matter of individual choice.

“It has to be a circumcision of the mind rather than circumcision of the organ,” he said.

initially installed as leader by the governing party and the army. After international condemnation, elections took place, which he won, amid complaints of rigging from opposition parties and observers.

The BBC correspondent in the capital, Lome, says the Supreme Court was packed as the trial opened.

He says the trial has brought to the fore the long-standing family rivalry between the two sons of the late President Gnassingbe Eyadema.

Family sources trace the bitterness between the two brothers to their childhood when Kpatcha, who was bigger than his older brother, was alleged to have made attempts to intimidate and bully Faure.

The sources say Kpatcha challenged the now president to a traditional wrestling bout but slipped at a crucial point and Faure won.

About 30 other people, including the former head of the armed forces, Assani Tidjani, are also accused of taking part in the alleged coup attempt, in which two people are said to have died.

Syrian Attorney-General’s resignation TOP Syrian legal ofbut yet to be seen publicly. not forced ficial who resigned It is impossible to say for his post has said govsure what has happened to

A

LOSS OF DOCUMENT

OBJECTIVES OF MUSLIM UMMAH OF SOUTH WEST NIGERIA CARE GIVERS SOCIETY This is to notify the general public that the above named Society is in the process of applying to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under Part C of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 2004.

THE TRUSTEES ARE 1. Prof. Dawud Olatokunbo Noibi 2.

Prof. Lateef Akinola Salak 3. Mrs. Radhiyat Aramide Labinjo 4.Prof. Muheez Alani Durosinmi 5. Alhaja Moridiya Omolara Adeyemo OBJECTIVES 1. To increase awareness and sensitization about diseases, ignorance and squalor among the southwest Muslims population of Nigeria 2. To propose programmes and projects to foster behavior change as a n important means of controlling diseases.

3. To improve understanding and acceptance by southwest Muslims of the principle that all must take responsibility for prevention of diseases, transmission and provision of care and support for those infected and affected.

4. To initiate programmes and projects to explore and provide access to care and support for southwest Muslims infected and affected by diseases and to empower them through training, counseling and education to cope with their circumstances.

5. To develop and propose prevention programmes targeted at vulnerable groups such as women, children and migrant labour.

6. To institute the process of complete eradication of diseases, ignorance and squalor among southwest Muslims of Nigeria.

Any objection to the proposed registration must be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Abuja, within 28 days of this publication.

Signed: Francis T. Akinlotan Probitas Partners ES OF MUSLIM UMMAH OF SOUTH WEST NIGERIA CARE GIVERS SOCIETY

PUBLIC NOTICE TIONAL MISSION INTERNATIONAL SEEDHOUSE INTERNA This is to inform the general public that the above named organization has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under part ‘C’ of CAMA,1990 THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Prof (Arc) Olusanya Obafemi Olumide 2. Deacon Alabi John Abiodun 3. Dr Popoola Babatunde Olajide 4. Ojo Ayorinde Tomide - Secretary 5. Kehinde Olusegun Victor - Chief Responsibility Officer 6. Rev Aboyeji Abayomi Samuel - Chairman 7. Engr Babatunde Adewale Odufuwa AIMS/OBJECTIVES 1.To teach and educate the general populace on the non-negotiable values of the person of Jesus Christ,his lifestyle,principles,death and ressurrection,through the establishment of training/teaching centres worldwide.

2.To carry on charitable works through the establishment of teaching, worship and resources centres worldwide.

Any objection to the registration of the above should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja, within 28days of this notice.

SIGNED: ADENIKE ADESOPE 15, JUBILEE ROAD, SHANGISHA, LAGOS. 08056274686; 03 777 8376

ernment claims that he did so under threat of violence were “utterly false”.

Hama attorney-general Adnan Bakkour resigned on Wednesday in protest at crimes against humanity he said were being committed by government troops.

State media said he had been kidnapped and forced to lie at gunpoint.

In a second video, Mr Bakkour said he had been speaking freely, and that state soldiers had tried to seize him.

The Sana state news agency had quoted an official source as saying Mr Bakkour’s statements were “lies about completely false practices,” and that he had been forced to make them.

The official told Sana the

story was “another dirty game by al-Jazeera” - referring to the Qatari-owned pan-Arab news channel.

The official news agencies then published an extensive report - quoting Mr Bakkour’s driver - as saying he had been kidnapped from his car by a gang of seven armed men.

Mr Bakkour said this was “untrue and utterly false”, and added: “The regime’s thugs attempted to kidnap me today from Hama but they failed.”

“I am under the protection of the rebels and the people,” he said.

The BBC’s Owen BennettJones in Beirut says Mr Bakkour did not appear to be under duress in either video

him, says our correspondent, but the two stories are so contradictory that they cannot both be true.

In his statement, which was posted online on Wednesday, Mr Bakkour said he was resigning because of the “al-Assad regime and his gangs”.

Mr Bakkour gave the reasons for his decision as: The killing of 72 prisoners in Hama’s central prison on 31 July 2011, including peaceful protesters and political activists The burying of more than 420 victims in mass graves in public parks by security forces personnel and the pro-regime shabiha militia; he said he was told to report that the victims were killed

•President Assad by armed gangs The arbitrary arrests of peaceful protesters; he said there were approximately 10,000 prisoners in total The torture of prisoners at branches of the security services; he said approximately 320 people had died under torture.

US Army marks first month without casualty in Iraq

A

UGUST was the first month since the USled invasion in 2003 that no United States soldiers were killed in Iraq.

An independent group, icasualties.org, has displayed the statistics for August on its website, which tracks US fatalities in Iraq every month.

US Col Douglas Crissman said it showed how far Iraqi security forces had come.

Figures for Iraqi civilian and security forces deaths in August are not yet available, but the month has seen major attacks with substantial loss of life.

On 28 August a suicide bombing at a major Sunni mosque that killed 32 people in Baghdad and a series of coordinated assaults on 15 August killed at least 60 people.

The 48,000 US troops still

in Iraq will withdraw at the end of the year. Almost 4,500 US soldiers have died there.

Col Crissman, who is in charge of American forces in four provinces of southern Iraq, told the New York Times: “If you had thought about a month without a death back during the surge in 2007, it would have been pretty hard to imagine because we were losing sol-

diers every day, dozens a week.”

The AFP news agency quoted US Major Angela Funaro as saying: “August was the first month with no hostile deaths and no noncombat deaths, which includes accidents or illness.

“However, there were two other months on record - December 2009 and 0ctober 2010 - when the United States Forc-

es-Iraq had no hostile deaths, but at least one non-combatrelated death.”

All US troops still in Iraq must pull out by the end of the year, under the terms of a 2008 security pact.

However, Iraqi politicians announced in early August that they would begin talks with Washington over a military training mission to last beyond 2011.

Congo police fire teargas at protesters

P

OLICE fired tear gas at hundreds of stone-throwing opposition supporters demonstrating in Congo’s capital against alleged fraud in the run up to November elections.

Jacquemain Shabani, the opposition party’s secretary-general, said yesterday that they want an audit of the electoral register, alleging there was fraud during enrollment.

The National Electoral Commission denies the allegations.

Congo’s police inspector general Charles Bisengimana said two police officers were injured and two demonstrators were arrested. The streets were calm outside the commission’s headquarters by the evening.

The commission has enrolled more than 32 million voters for Congo’s pivotal elections.

President Joseph Kabila, who is running for re-election, took office in 2001 and was later elected in 2006 in the country’s first democratic election.

63

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

SPORT EXTRA MADAGASCAR/NIGERIA CLASH

Yobo's arrival completes Eagles’ squad S

UPER Eagles’ captain, Joseph Yobo became the last player to join up with the camp of the Super Eagles ahead of Sunday's Africa Cup of Nations qualifying against Madagascar.

Yobo flew into Antananarivo on Thursday afternoon to complete the team's camp and bring the total number of players to 22.

The Nigerian skipper was excused alongside Ikechukwu Uche to join the team in

Antananarivo in order to allow them sort out their futures with their clubs.

Uche also arrived in the early part of Thursday after completing a three-way deal with Spanish La Liga side, Villareal.

The Super Eagles are staying at the Hotel Carlton – the only fivestar hotel in Antananarivo.

Meanwhile, Columbus Crew midfielder, Emmanuel Ekpo is expected to fly straight to Bangladesh to join the team for the international friendly against

Argentina in Dhaka, Bangladesh.

PLAYERS IN CAMP John Mikel Obi, Victor Anichebe, Ahmed Musa, Fengor Ogude, Dele Adeleye, Joel Obi, Peter Utaka, Chinedu Obasi, Obinna Nsofor, Solomon Okoronkwo, Dele Aiyenugba, Emmanuel Emenike, Nosa Igiebor, Brown Ideye, Chigozie Agbim, Brown Ideye, Chibuzor Okonkwo, Yusuf Ayila, Elderson Echiejile, Vincent Enyeama, Efe Ambrose, Gege Soriola, Ike Uche, Joseph Yobo

Kean relishes Yakubu signing

B

LACKBURN Rovers boss Steve Kean has expressed delight at the signing of former Nigeria international, Yakubu Aiyegbeni ahead of the season at the close of the last transfer window on Wednesday.

With the tranfer market very busy, Blackburn had carried out a last minute swoop on the Nigerian, who was on loan to Liecester City from Everton, alonside defender Scott Dann from Birmingham.

"We didn't know Yakubu was going to be available but when we did we moved swiftly.

"He has been around and scored goals everywhere he has been so that is nice habit to get in as a striker," he said.

He spoke further: "I think we have done some fantastic business and kept the group together," said the Rovers boss.

"It is important to sign players with Premier League experience. We have a young group and not many have that experience.

"So Scott and Yakubu's quality and leadership and the number games they have played will certainly help the younger ones and now there is going to be great competition for places."

24-year-old Scott Dann arrives

from Birmingham on a fouryear-deal, whilst 28-year-old Yakubu signed a three-yeardeal in his move from Everton.

"We have managed to bring in fantastic quality on the last day," added Kean.

"Scott, with the quality he has shown in his partnership with Roger Johnson (at Birmingham), is a fantastic leader and more importantly he is a top player.

"He is quality defender in that

he likes defending and is very comfortable on the ball but actually there is a knack of defending which is dying a bit and he is a proper defender.

"He is going to be something who will go on and, in future, will be captain material for us.

"To get someone who has a track record of scoring goals at this level and if you can give him service and get him in the box then he scores so I think it is a brilliant signing.

•Yakubu Aiyegbeni (r) unveiled at new club Blackburn Rovers alongside Scott Dann (l) with coach Steve Kean (m)

Kalika dismisses Madagascar 'crisis'

S

UPER Eagles assistant coach Simon Kalika says Nigeria will play Madagascar with the same intensity irrespective of what team they put out on Sunday.

The Madagascans have disbanded their team after a poor showing at the Indian Ocean games and replaced them with the Under 23 squad.

But Kalika insists that the Super Eagles will be more concerned about their own game "We dont care what team they bring to play us. They are still going to be dangerous, especially in front of their home crowd.

"We have more quality than they have and if we focus on

our own game and play the way we want to play, then our quality will make a difference no matter what team they bring."

Nigeria arrived on Thursday morning in Antananarivo and will ramp up their preparations on Friday morning when they train in the Indian Ocean island for the first time.

AS TRANSFER WINDOW CLOSES

West Brom looks for Osaze boost

E

NGLAND Premier League side, West Browich Albion hopes Nigerian forward Osaze Odemwingie and Zoltan Gera will lift the mood at The Hawthorns after the Baggies drew a blank on deadline day.

The club hope both Gera and Osaze will declare themselves fit for the trip to Carrow Road on Sunday week as Roy Hodgson’s men look to bounce back from three games without a point at the start of the season and a barren end to the transfer window.

Gera is on course to make the matchday squad against the Canaries following ankle surgery while Odemwingie revealed on Twitter Wednesday night that he should be fit

enough to make the bench after his own ankle injury.

And the Baggies will head for Norfolk in need of a lift after the final day of the transfer window saw three defenders leave The Hawthorns with none arriving.

Marek Cech completed his £800,000 move to Turkish side Trabzonspor and was followed out of Albion in the final hour of the window by Spain international Pablo Ibanez, who joined Birmingham in a £500,000 permanent switch.

Teenage full-back James Hurst also departed for Blackpool on a season-long loan, although he can be recalled by the Baggies at any time after his first 28 days at Bloomfield Road.

Boss Roy Hodgson had wanted to bolster his options

with at least one new face if the club sold defenders.

But attempts to secure a loan signing failed despite the loss of Ibanez and the sale of Cech, which leaves Premier League rookie Joe Mattock as the only specialist deputy to first-choice left-back Nicky Shorey.

•Osaze

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2011

TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM VOL. 7,

C OMMENT & D EB ATE EBA

W

E are in a multiple jeopardy scenario. We have a dog that barks annoyingly but cannot bite; a kite that refuses to fly; and we are confronted with the case of a king vulture that cannot prey. It is a raw deal. Where is transformational leadership in a transformational time?

Just take a good look. Where is the silver lining amid a cloud of gloom and certain collapse? A self-inflicted crisis in the judiciary got bungled with political harlotry as pimps take over to implement a preconceived agenda. A leadership that is AWOL in matters dear to the material survival of the nation—education, power and energy, employment, and security, emerges and finds its voice in a political overthrow of judicial autonomy and rule of law. How is a decision to suspend a Chief Judge and appoint an Acting Chief Judge when a case is pending in court not a mockery of the rule of law which every elected official swore to protect? But my focus here is on the latest in a series of embarrassments.

An executive indecision about fighting terrorism with a strong resolve has breached security even in high places and we keep assuring diplomats and commoners of their safety. But of course they know better and the United Nations may be rethinking its confidence in Nigeria.

According to news reports, the UN Under-Secretary for Security, Gregory Starr, expressed surprise at the attack, in Nigeria, on the world body’s office, stating that Nigeria is not the kind of country from which they expected this kind of attack. Why not?

Because they “looked at this country (Nigeria) as one with low or medium security threat.” I think from this submission, one can infer that the United Nations now has very good reasons to look at Nigeria as a country with a high security threat. And we have a worse than mediocre leadership to thank for this development.

Surely, we didn’t get to this level of “achievement” overnight. First there was the underwear bomber that left our shores on a mission to massacre innocents aboard a KLM flight on Christmas day. We were put on the list of countries with a high risk of terrorism and we protested because that placement didn’t reflect us. It worked.

Then Boko Haram surfaced and struck.

With a government that takes seriously the duty to protect lives and property, that first strike was enough to send a strong signal and a determination to nip the unwholesome development in the bud. But Boko Haram struck again, and again, and again with an audacity that thumbs the nose of security forces. The Inspector General of

SEGUN GBADEGESIN gbadegesin@thenationonlineng.net

Slouching towards Hades ‘... one can infer that the United Nations now has very good reasons to look at Nigeria as a country with a high security threat.

And we have a worse than mediocre leadership to thank for this development. Surely, we didn’t get to this level of “achievement” overnight’ •President Goodluck Jonathan

Police vowed and bragged, and the sect followed him to the lion’s den, almost put the lion to sleep, and came out safely. It was more than an embarrassment. The success of that daring by a terrorist gang should force many heads in the security apparatus of the nation to roll. But this is Nigeria. Nothing happened.

And because the response has been what it was, terrorists got the signal and got more daring. The United Nations, the symbol of world peace and progress appeared to them to be the right target even though this is an organisation which, far from being a western imposition, prides itself as an amalgam of the entire world nations and cultures. We are even seeking a per-

RIPPLES

manent seat on the Security Council. It’s the paradox of a nation that doesn’t take the security of its own people seriously wishing to be elevated to the Security Council of the world body.

Gregory Starr is reported to have disclosed that the UN office in Nigeria received general threats of terror attack and these were discussed with Nigeria, the host country, with a view to having Nigerian authorities take appropriate steps. “We can’t figure out specific actions that were taken” the Under-Secretary added. We now know that no steps—specific or general—were taken

by Nigerian authorities. Otherwise last Friday would not happen.

Years ago, an Inspector General of Police

HARDBALL

OBASANJO’S GOVERNMENT, THE BEST EVER–Senator Ita-Giwa

was quoted as saying that the police was to investigate and prosecute crimes and not to prevent them. With that mindset, can we expect the police or security agents to stamp out any crimes including terrorism? What qualification is expected of recruits? How are they trained? How are they paid? Are they capable of collecting actionable intelligence? It is remarkable that the FBI is reported to have taken over the investigation of the UN office bombing. If the Federal authorities know shame, they would bury their heads. But life goes on.

The Federal Government has the constitutional responsibility for securing the nation from internal and external attack.

This is the most visible and essential duty of the government to its citizens. When that responsibility is not discharged, there is good reason for civil disobedience.

In the usual Monday quarterbacking sensibility of Nigerian authorities, we are now told that a meeting of security chiefs with the President has taken some “bold” steps to arrest the situation including a “major overhaul of our security system and apparatchik”, a “synergy in the operations of the security systems”, “compulsory registration of all aliens” and what is more, “security agencies have been asked to tighten security nationwide to protect lives and property.” Reading these imbecilic ideas is torturous and frankly I am not sure what to believe. Really? You have to tighten security nationwide and that is a policy? But how many times have we heard similar rants after similar incidents and with what result?

But that is not all. The Nation also reported that “(A) Long Term National Security Strategy will take off from next year” and “(All) modalities are being worked out.” If we were a grateful lot, I guess we would thank the federal government for this initiative of having a long-term national security policy that would take effect in a year. But we are ingrates, aren’t we? That is why we can still be so critical of the benevolence of our government. After all do we expect terrorists to bomb all us out of existence before the “long-term national security policy” takes off in a year?

Already in a state of hopelessness, we are slouching steadily towards Hades, the end-stage of an experiment that appeared flawed from the beginning. Perhaps the terrorists are destined to hasten up the collapse of this house of cards.

•For comments, send SMS to 08057634061

•Hardball is not the opinion of the columnist featured above

Before Jos crisis gets completely out of hand

T

According to FLORENCE”S THEOREM...ehn?

NO. 1,871

TOMORROW IN THE NATION 'Because the buck stops at his table, they do not think this President is sufficiently angry or courageous enough to rein in those whose sole intention is to install a reign of anarchy on the land. All they ask is: let him act presidential, walk his tough talk and convince the people that he is actually on top of the situation!'

YOMI ODUNUGA

HE violent disagreements between natives and settlers in Jos that sometimes manifest as conflicts between farmers and pastoralists, and between Christians and Muslims, has outlasted more than five governments at the federal and state levels. No government at either level is any nearer finding a solution to the problem than when the crisis began.

Indeed, looking at the little that is being done to solve the Jos crisis, other than sterile peacekeeping, it is looking like each government has made up its mind to manage the problem until it can pass the mess on to its successor. If morbid humour were permitted, Jos would be an excellent case study in continuity in government, with every government happy to reinforce the display of lack of imagination from where its predecessor stopped. Sadly, no one is laughing. More troubling, the increasingly short duration between flare-ups and the more disturbing lack of impartiality by military and police peacekeepers are telling us we have little time left to solve the problem before it consumes everybody.

There is a Special Task Force on the ground

to keep the peace in Jos and environs. But rather than abate or at least respond even faintly to the iron fist of patrolling soldiers, the crisis is worsening. The reasons for this unwholesome situation are many. One of the key problems arising from the crisis is the welter of reports alleging that some of the military personnel on ground have taken sides. The natives have been quick to make this allegation. The soldiers are themselves operating under very harsh and tense conditions, and are sometimes tempted to take out their frustrations on innocent and unarmed civilians. Combine these unhealthy mix with the fact that the main causes of the crisis have either not been properly identified or the government has lacked the will to face them, and you recognise a possible apocalypse in the making.

The recent flare-up during the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations should alarm all Nigerians, not only for the brazenness of the battles between youths on both sides of the divide, but the fact that it is developing into a war of attrition gradually predisposing the peacekeepers into partisanship. In the last three days, there have been reports of a

journalist who was deliberately assaulted by soldiers without provocation, and soldiers either shooting into hospitals where the wounded were taken to or demanding, against the rules of engagement, that patients be released to them supposedly for interrogation. The military authorities are doing their best to manage the unsavoury reports of their men’s partisanship and highhandedness, but more and more they are sounding incredulous.

Finding a solution to the Jos crisis is, therefore, now more urgent than ever.

Positions are hardening, peacekeepers are finding it more difficult to be detached and are allegedly committing extra-judicial killings and other petty crimes such as kidnapping, and there is apparently no indication the Federal Government has a clue how to tackle the danger. The time has come for us to weigh the almost certain plunge to apocalypse, which a do-nothing philosophy engenders, against the inevitable discomforts of stepping on powerful toes, which summoning the political will to tackle the crisis implies. There is no question which direction to head.

Published and printed by Vintage Press Limited. Corporate Office: 27B Fatai Atere Way, Matori, Lagos. P.M.B. 1025,Oshodi, Lagos.

Telephone: Switch Board: 01-8168361. Editor Daily:01-8962807, Marketing: 01-8155547 . Abuja Office: Plot 5, Nanka Close AMAC Commercial Complex, Wuse Zone 3, Abuja. Tel: 07028105302.

E-mail: info@thenationonlineng.net Editor: GBENGA OMOTOSO