The Nation September 07, 2012

Nigeria’s widest circulating newspaper

Four Igbinedion Varsity teachers die

Amosun: I didn’t charter plane at N26m NEWS

NEWS

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Page 57

•Allegation malicious, says official

•Vehicle plunges into Ovia River

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VOL. 7, NO. 2241 FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

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•President Jonathan (second left) and (from left) Vice President Namadi Sambo, Deputy Senate President Ekweremadu and former Chief Justice Alfa Belgore at the retreat...yesterday PHOTO AKIN OLADOKUN

Constitution ‘ready in June’

No oil deal with Zambia, says Anyiam-Osigwe’s firm

From Onyedi Ojiabor and Vincent Ikuomola, Abuja

P

RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan yesterday promised Nigerians a people-oriented constitution.

He said the Presidency would “shortly’’ send the proposed bills on the amendment along with the report of the Justice Alfa Belgore Committee on Constitution Amendment to the National Assembly.

Dr. Jonathan spoke at a session with labour leaders, ethnic nationality chiefs and civil society groups, as part of the government’s plan to amend the 1999 Constitution – a job which Deputy Speaker Emeka Ihedioha said would be completed in June, next year.

Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Anyim Pius Anyim spoke of the civil society, significant role Continued on page 8

T •Ihedioha

HE Anyiam-Osigwe family yesterday denied any commercial involvement in Zambia’s oil transaction with Nigeria beyond its role in securing an approval for a government-to-government crude sale.

Their lawyer has written the Attorney-General of Zambia, demanding an “immediate re-

By Joseph Jibueze, Staff Reporter

traction” of a statement by the country’s Permanent Secretary, Mines, Energy and Water Development, Mr George Zulu, published in Times of Zambia and The Zambia Daily Mail.

The letter, dated September 4, 2012, obtained by The Nation, is signed by the law firm of Ka-

besha and Co, Kabwe, Zambia.

It reads: “We act for Mr George Anyiam-Osigwe who has instructed us to seek legal redress against the Zambian Government and/or Mr George Zulu, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Mines, Energy and Water DeContinued on page 4

More attacks on GSM firms MTN, Airtel, Glo, Etisalat masts destroyed in Yobe, Kano Gunmen burn govt offices Tighter security for masts

G •NCC Executive Vice Chairman Eugene Juwah

UNMEN suspected to be members of the Boko Haram sect have stepped up their attacks on telecommunications equipment.

They attacked more masts in Damaturu, Potiskum – both in Yobe State – and Kano on Wednesday night and early yesterday.

The Ministry of Religious Affairs, which houses the Hajj Commission in Damaturu, was burnt down overnight.

But security agents moved fast to protect the facilities.

The attacks on masts in Yobe towns of Damaturu and Potiskum ground

From Duku Joel, Damaturu and Kolade Adeyemi, Kano

telephone lines, except the MTN network, which was very erratic.

In Kano, suspected gunmen attacked masts at Kwanar Ganduje in Sharada on Wednesday night.

Police spokesman Magaji Majiya said the police received information on the attacks about 10:30pm. ”We mobilised our men to the scene and the inferno was promptly put out by men of the state Fire Service,” he said.

The local government INEC office on

Potiskum Road and the Centre for Mass Literacy and Adult Education behind First Bank in Gwange were destroyed by the gunmen.

Potiskum resident told The Nation on the telephone that about five masts including those of Airtel, Etisalat and Glo, were destroyed. Seven were destroyed in Damaturu.

“From what I gathered, seven masts were burnt in Damaturu. There is one near my house on Potiskum Road.

Their generator was burnt down by these boys,” the resident said.

The Boko Haram sect claimed re-

sponsibility for the attacks’ last night, warning of more violence.

The gunmen also burnt down the Yobe State Ministry of Religious Affairs on Wednesday night.

Hospital sources said that 16 people, including an official of the protocol department of the Yobe State Government, were killed in the attack.

The official was said to be returning from work when he was caught up in the gunfire.

“As at this morning, I counted about sixteen people that were brought to the Continued on page 4

•AGRIC P17 •SPORT P23 •SOCIETY P25 •BRAND P29 •POLITICS P43

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

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NEWS OLABODE OLATUNDE VINCENT (1925-2012)

Fashola, bid ‘Mr. •Fayemi: Vincent as a model to the younger generation • President Goodluck Jonathan (second left), Vice-President Namadi Sambo (left),Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu (second right) and Justice Alfa Belgore (right)at a presidential retreat for civil societies in Abuja...yesterday

• Taraba State Governor Danbaba Suntai (second right) exchanging pleasantries with the Director, MTN Foundation, Mr. Wale Goodluck during the foundation’s presentation of security vans to the state in Jalingo...yesterday. With them are Speaker, Taraba House of Assemby, Hon. Istifanus Gbana (right) and Executive Secretary, MTN Foundation, Mrs. Nonny Ugboma (left)

• Lagos lawyer Mr. Femi Falana (SAN), Minister of Information Labaran Maku and Vice-President, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Isa Aremu at a presidential retreat for civil societies in Abuja...yesterday

•Phillippino President Benigno S. Aquino III receiving the letter of credence from Nigeria’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Phillippines, Dr. Akinyemi Farounbi at the Music Room, Malacañan Palace... on Wednesday

T

HE cathedral of African Church Bethel overflowed yesterday at the funeral service for former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor Olatunde Olabode Vincent. Prominent Nigerians occupied every available space to pay their last respects to the former CBN governor.

Some of them are Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola, former military Head of State Gen. Yakubu Gowon, Ogun State Deputy Governor Prince Segun Adesegun, former CBN Governor Joseph Sanusi, foremost chartered accountant Chief Akintola Williams, former Commonwealth of Nations Secretary-General, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, former ViceChancellor, Obafemi Awolowo University, Prof. Wale Omole, Deputy Governor of the CBN Mr. Tunde Lemo and Otunba Subomi Balogun.

Also prominent at the lying-instate earlier at Pa Vincent’s residence were Gen. Gowon and Prof. Pat Utomi.

Fashola described Pa Vincent as a rare Nigerian. Gen. Gowon said: “The whole of Lagos is here and the whole of Nigeria is here, not because he was a politician but because he was a man that he was. What I truly admired about him was his love for his country. He would not just complain but he would proffer solutions and even volunteer his time and resources sacrificially.”

The homily, delivered by the Rt. Rev. Isaac Akin Falana, the Bishop of Rivers Diocese of the African Church, highlighted several virtues of the late Vincent, which endeared him to many across the nation.

Rev. Falana said: “When I was a choir boy in this church, Papa Vincent, despite his high social status, was selling the church’s magazine. If he has 10 invitations to social gatherings, he would make sure he attended all. He did not even wait till you ask before he gave any gift he had to give.”

He described him as a perfect example of a devoted and good man.

He added: “He related well with everyone, irrespective of social status. Unfortunately, in churches and mosques, the rich have created a barrier and class around themselves and they are not accessible.”

Revd. Falana urged everyone to imbibe the late Vincent’s outstanding virtues because “everything we have is given by God for the good of humanity.”

He reminded everyone that the day to die is “fast approaching and when that day comes, what will people say about you? Death is not by age; it can come at any time. Your work will expose you.”

The Bishop admonished the late Vincent’s children to continue his legacies because there is a reward for everything.

Elder Vincent Ola Kukoyi, in his tribute, described how much the late Vincent loathed self-perpetuation in office.

“His tenure as a CBN governor should terminate in June 1982. Six months to the expiration of his tenure, he showed me a draft letter he was sending to the Federal Government. I told him it is not his duty to remind them. He retorted it was bet-

• The late Vincent

‘

When I was a choir boy in this church, Papa Vincent, despite his high social status, was selling the church’s magazine. If he has 10 invitations to social gatherings, he would make sure he attended all.

‘

By Segun Balogun

ter for one to leap in than to allow yourself to be pushed,” he said.

Anyaoku said it was impossible to miss the late Vincent’s integrity and humility. Mr. Felix Ohiwerei said he had served on the same committee with the deceased and the late economist “will vet every document and ensure everything follows order. He was a thorough and uncompromising professional.”

CBN’s Deputy Governor Kingsley Moghalu said the CBN “would never have been what it is without his hard work, professionalism and focus”.

The late Vincent’s first son, Jaiye, said his father always thought ahead of time, a quality that made him discuss his burial plans before he died.

“He told us he wanted to be buried within 72 hours of his death,” he said.

His remains were interred at the Ikoyi Cemetery.

Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Olayinka Oyebode, described the late Vincent as a model to the younger generation.

Dr. Fayemi said the young genera-

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

3

NEWS OLABODE OLATUNDE VINCENT (1925-2012)

Gowon, Anyaoku, others Integrity Ola Vincent’ farewell

• Daughter of the deceased, Taiwo Bali (left)nd widow Mrs. Mrs. Edith Ola Vincent • Prof. J P Clark...yesterday at the church...yesterday

• A motorcade bearing the casket of the late Vincent...yesterday

‘

• Fashola (left), Prince Adesegun, Moghalu and Lemo...yesterday

• Mr. Williams and Mrs. Seni Williams...yesterday

tion would learn the virtues of hard work, selflessness, patriotism and altruism from the late Vincent.

He said the late Vincent gave his all to his fatherland in the course of his public career and never expected anything in return.

The Ekiti helmsman described the late Vincent as one of best CBN governors the country has ever produced.

Fayemi urged the family of the de-

• Ohiwerei....yesterday

•Gen. Gowon and June Vincent...yesterday

ceased to take solace in the fact that the late octogenarian lived a fulfilled life and positively affected his generation.

His Oyo State counterpart, Abiola Ajimobi, in a statement, described the death of the former CBN governor as a great loss to the country.

The governor said: “It was with rude shock that I received the news of the passing away of Pa Ola Vincent

• Otunba Balogun and his wife Abimbola....yesterday PHOTOS: ABIODUN WILLIAMS

in a Lagos hospital. “ Even though he died at the ripe age of 87, nevertheless his death is very unfortunate and a great loss to Nigeria.

“He was a world-class economist, distinguished banker and public servant. He was an illustrious son of Nigeria.’’

Ajimobi said the late Vincent’s tenure as CBN governor witnessed

rapid economic growth owing to his sound economic policies and administrative dexterity.

“It is particularly painful that Pa Vincent passed away at such an auspicious time when his wealth of experience is most needed to salvage the country from its present economic doldrums.

“As painful as his death is, we are, however, consoled by the fact that he

lived a fulfilled life; a life of unflinching commitment, dedication, patriotism and service to humanity; a life that is worthy of emulation,’’ he said.

While praying God to grant the deceased eternal rest, Ajimobi urged his immediate family, friends and associate not to mourn him but to celebrate him as a great achiever who put his God-given endowments at the disposal of his country.

4

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

NEWS Imo to prosecute Udenwa, Ohakim

‘No oil deal with Zambia’

From Okodili Ndidi, Owerri

Continued from page 1

velopment and the two government daily publications, Times of Zambia and the Zambia Daily Mail.

“The complaint from our client is that both government publications, The Times of Zambia and the Zambia Daily Mail of 1st September 2012 carried a story with titles – ‘MMD in Nigeria oil scam’ and ‘K25 Billion MMD oil saga’ respectively.

“In the publications the Permanent Secretary, Mr George Zulu is alleged to have claimed that he met our client and bank records had indicated that our client had been paid US$5 Million as commission for the said oil saga. Mr Zulu is alleged to have claimed that he met out client.

“Mr Zulu never met our client Mr George Anyiam-Osigwe or any member of the Anyiam-Osigwe family during his visit to Nigeria and the company in question SARB is not known to our client or any one in his company.

“The allegations in relation to our client are false and without any basis whatsoever. They are grievously malicious and injurious to the good reputation of our client.

“We have instructions to demand immediate retraction of the statement by the Permanent Secretary, Mr George Zulu, Times of Zambia and The Zambia Daily Mail.

“Our client is assessing the

T

•From left: Kennedy Anyiam-Osigwe, George Anyiam-Osigweand Charles Anyiam-Osigwe...yesterday

damage caused to his reputation and reserves the right to legal redress. We await your reaction within the next five (5) days from date hereof.”

The family, in a statement yesterday signed by George Anyiam-Osigwe, maintained its innocence, insisting that the allegations made against it were false.

Anyiam-Osigwe said his company had protested to the former President of Zambia, Rupiah Banda for allegedly being ill-treated following a business transaction it initiated for

the Zambian government.

He said his company got Nigeria’s approval to supply crude oil to Zambia, but certain officials, allegedly without recourse to it after it helped broker the deal, sidelined to and, unknown to it, transacted the business. He later learnt that a company called SARB handled the deal on behalf of the Zambian Government.

Anyiam-Osigwe said Permanent Secretary Zulu alleged that they met in Nigeria where he admitted to have collected $5million as commission on the

crude sales transaction, which he said was false.

“Let me state here and for the records that I don’t know who Mr George Zulu is and I have never met him. Therefore, claiming that he met me when he came to Nigeria on a factfinding mission was a blatant lie,” he said.

He, however, added that his brother Michael, at the instance of the Zambian Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr George Mpombo, had a telephone conversation with someone described as a Zambian of-

PHOTO: OLUSEGUN RAPHEAL

ficial and member of a fact-finding delegation to Nigeria.

“At no time in the course of the telephone conversation was any issue of money discussed.

My brother simply stated the fact that we assisted the country but had no commercial involvement in the transaction and never received any compensation of any kind in return,” Anyiam-Osigwe said.

His family, he said, has been in the oil trading business for decades and has integrity and an untainted name, backed Continued on page 8

Why Southsouth wants true federalism, by Clark

E

LDER statesman Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark yesterday said the Southsouth wants true federalism so that the oil-rich region can control its resources.

According to him, true federalism placed the Southwest ahead of other geo-political zones in education and sound economy.

Speaking at a meeting of the Southsouth Peoples Assembly (SSPA), hosted by Delta State Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan, in Warri, he wondered why the zone is denied the opportunity to control its resources.

From Shola O’Neil and Polycap Orosevwotu, Warri

“The issue of fiscal federalism or resource control is looked at in several quarters as a demand by some insatiable people. This conception is very wrong. The control of a peoples’ resources is not a new phenomenon”, he stated.

He said the demand of the region is to be treated as the Southwest and North during the cocoa boom and the groundnut pyramids with the attendant economic prosperity prior to the Civil War in 1967.

In a reference to allegations

that governors of the region have not been making judicious use of funds allocated to the area and therefore do not deserve increased allocation, the SSPA leader retorted: “Who are they to tell us how to spend our money?”

He challenged governors from the region, under the auspices of Southsouth Governors Forum to rise against the insult being hauled at the oil-rich region by their counterparts from the North, lamenting that governors of the region have “kept quiet” in the face of provocation by the North’s governors.

He said: “I want to appeal to

you (Uduaghan) and the Southsouth Governors Forum to speak up more. They (Northern Governors Forum) have been abusing us; they have been insulting you and we want more reply from you.”

The former Information Minister called for a national conference to deliberate on the terms of the continuous existence of Nigeria as a nation.

He said a true federal system of government to put the various federating units in the driver’s seat of their destiny.

He described the dream of a Sovereign National Conference Continued on page 8

•Clark

Govt tightens security to stop attacks on GSM firms Continued from page 1

mortuary on Wednesday” an anonymous hospital source claimed.

Another source said the Ministry of Religious Affairs, which houses the state Hajj camp and the office of the pilgrims Welfare Commission under construction, was destroyed in the attack.

“The whole of the ministry including the Hajj camp, the new office building for the pilgrims welfare commission are completely burnt down. The explosives and the gunshots I heard were so terrifying. I woke up to discover that it’s this ministry that is been destroyed.it’s sad,” the source lamented.

An official in the ministry who pleaded for anonymity, said the latest attack on the ministry may affect the hajj programme as about 3,030 pilgrims are expected to be airlifted from the state on September 18.

Police commissioner Patrick Egbuniwe confirmed the attacks but was not sure of the level of destruction.

The Joint Task Force (JTF) on Operation Restore Order condemned Tuesday’s destruction of GSM masts and facilities in Maiduguri.

Lt.-Col. Sagir Musa, the JTF

‘Why gunmen attacked GSM firms’ facilities’

G

UNMEN attacked the facilities of GSM providers MTN, Airtel and Globacom for allegedly aiding security agencies to arrest their members, sources said yesterday.

The thinking in official circle is that the gunmen are aggrieved that the GSM firms may have been assisting security agencies to track their movements through the GPRS facility.

But the government has initiated a fresh security strategy to protect base stations and telecoms facilities, in addition to the security arrangement put in place by the GSM companies.

According to a preliminary stock-taking of the situation by the military and security high commands, the attackers are unhappy that their lines are being tracked.

It was gathered that some gunmen had wanted to meet in Maiduguri on Wednesday but the Joint Task Force (JTF) got to know about it allegedly through the “tapping” of their lines.

The militia accused some of the GSM providers of being willing tools of military

spokesman, in a statement said: “The JTF has observed the mutation of criminal activities occasioned by suspected Boko Haram terrorists in Borno State.

“The group has recently com-

From Yusuf Alli, Abuja

and security agencies.

A top government official, who pleaded not to be named, said: “Preliminary investigation confirmed that these militant groups allegedly suspected that the GSM firms had been working with military and other security agencies to tap their lines and locations.

“They believe that the romance between the GSM firms and the military and other security agencies accounted for recent killing of their members and foiling of some bombings. In retaliation, they decided to attack their offices, base stations and other telecoms facilities.

“The government is making efforts to secure these facilities because they are not only used for GSM operations; there are other bends of communication for some sectors of the economy, including the military. In communication, sometimes, you share facilities.

“If we do not take preemptive security measures to protect these facilities, the

menced the burning and destruction of GSM masts and communication facilities in some areas of Maiduguri,” Col. Musa said.

Reacting to the news of MTN

Northeast may slide into communication blockade which may worsen the security situation in the region.

A JTF source said: “Military and security high commands have described the attacks on masts and offices as misplaced.

“How can they say the telecoms companies are aiding the security agents to attack their members and scuttle their plans when some of them are tired? This is not true. They should look inwards for their recent losses and challenges.

“Did they register their SIMs in such a way that the telecoms firms will know who they are and tell security agencies?

“If they destroy masts and offices, how will they also communicate to carry out their acts? The fact is that in recent times, we have made some gains and they know how these gains affected them.”

“For those who are willing to leave and work for security, we have assured them of their confidentiality and safety.”

and Airtel masts destruction, the Nigerian Communication Commission (NCC) yesterday pushed for speedy passage of Telecommunication Infrastructure Bill by the

National Assembly to give protection to infrastructure in the sector.

The NCC Director of Public Affairs, Mr Tony Ojobor, said Continued on page 8

WO former governors of Imo State – Chief Achike Udenwa (1999 – 2007) and immediate past Governor Ikedi Ohakim are to be taken to court for allegedly diverting public funds.

Secretary to the State Government Prof. Anthony Anwukah, said the state could no longer ignore the alleged fraud perpetrated during their time in office.

Udenwa was elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Ohakim was elected as a member of the Progressive Peoples Alliance (PPA) but he defected to the PDP. Governor Rochas Okorocha is a members of PPA Prof. Anwukah told reporters yesterday that their investigation revealed that funds meant for the execution of projects by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), running into billions of naira, were pocketed without executing any project in the state.

“Projects meant to be done were not done and the funds were pocketed without anybody asking questions,” he said.

The SSG added: “Udenwa misappropriated about N450million road project in Oguta Council Area without any sign of work done, except for two trenches dug by the road side”.

He assured the indigenes of the state, whom he said had been calling for the prosecution of the past administrators to exercise patience, adding that the Rochas Okorocha-led administration had perfected plans to ensure that the corrupt public officials who mismanaged the resources will not escape.

“We have perfected plans that will be difficult to beat and when they are brought before anti-graft agencies, they will not go scot free”.

Prof. Anwukah called for a review of the derivation formula, inrevenue sharing in the country, arguing that the Southeast states are shortchanged in the scheme of things. “The oil minerals in the Southsouth flows down from the Southeast to areas with higher derivation and as such should be equally remunerated” But, the secretary of the PDP in the state, Mr. Liyden Amajirionwu, challenged the state government to prosecute the governors if it has the facts.

Amajirionwu who dismissed Prof. Anwukah’s allegation as cheap blackmail, said, “we have heard of this plan to prosecute the former governors before now. They should go ahead instead of blackmailing them without facts.”

CORRECTION Prince Philip was hospitalised, not Prince Andrew as written yesterday in Editorial Notebook on the back page yesterday.

The error is regretted - Editor

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

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

5

NEWS ACN to partner US Democrats

Non-prosecution of Okupe is endorsement of corruption, says ACN

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HE Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) has described as official endorsement of corruption the attempt by the Presidency, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the Benue State government and the Economic and Finanicial Crimes Commsion (EFCC) to treat as a civil matter, the case relating to the nonimplementation of the N2.3 billion rural contract awarded to Dr Doyin Okupe ‘s company Value Trust Limited by the Benue State Government.

In a statement in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital yesterday by its National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, the party said this is a case which raises serious legal and financial issues that must necessarily warrant the intervention of the EFCC in terms of investigating the allegation of financial impropriety levelled against the Presidential aide if the government wants it to be taken seriously on its war against cor-

ruption.

The party said on several occasions in the past, the EFCC had proffered criminal charges against individuals and companies who received money for the purpose of the execution of contracts awarded to them and who failed or refused to fulfil the contract and Dr Doyin Okupe’s case is not different from any of these.

In the face of the obvious attempt by the Presidency, the PDP and the EFCC to sweep this case under the carpet, the ACN sees the need to present once again unadorned, the facts of this case to the public,which are as follows: “Value Trust, a company in which Dr Doyin Okupe serves as chairman received N886.8 million as mobilisation from the Benue State government out of the contract sum of N2.3 billion to build 230 kilometres of rural road and failed to execute the contract.” ‘’This non-performance of the contract after having collect-

’This non-performance of the contract after having collected N886.8 million mobilisation fee is a clear cut situation where the provisions of the law relating to obtaining money under false pretence should be invoked’ ed N886.8 million mobilisation fee is a clear cut situation where the provisions of the law relating to obtaining money under false pretence should be invoked and the EFCC must treat this incident in the same manner as it has been treating all other similar cases of obtaining money under false pretences’’, the party said. ‘’Therefore, the stance of both the Benue State Government and the PDP to treat this obvious criminal act with triviality by treating it as a mere civil commercial disagreement

that could be summarily resolved between the Benue State Government and Dr Okupe’s company cannot stand as only a court of law can determine the culpability or otherwise of Dr Okupe and his company in the matter, the party explained.

According to the party , it is obvious to even the least discerning observer that Dr Okupe and the Benue State government with the active collusion of the Presidency and the EFCC would like the world to believe that all that happened in a case where the Okupe’s company abandoned a contract after it was paid a whopping sum of N886.8million was a case of mere civil commercial dispute.

The party reminded the Presidency, Benue State government and the EFCC that in all cases where public funds are disbursed to individuals through any contrivance and the purpose for which such disbursement was made is not

A

•Dr. Okupe met, the EFCC had treated such cases as obtaining by false pretences.

“Many bank directors today are being tried for stealing borrowed funds that may not have been utilised appropriately.

The oil subsidy cases also merely involve persons who received sums as subsidies without supplying the subsidy product. What is good for the goose should be good for the gander, the EFCC must investigate the allegations against Dr Okupe or they should stop the prosecution of all bank directors and those indicted in the oil subsidy scam, the party added.

Court refuses to vacate order halting inquest into Dana crash

By Eric Ikhilae

J

USTICE Okon Abang of the Federal High Court, Lagos, yesterday refused the prayer of a group, Aviation Round Table Initiative, that he vacate his earlier interim order halting the proceedings of a coroner inquest probing the June 3 Dana Air plane crash in Lagos.

All the 153 passengers on board were killed.

No compensation has been paid to relatives of victims and the actual cause of the crash is also yet unknown, prompting the inquest instituted by the Lagos State Government.

At the resumed hearing of the suit, Justice Abang declined to vacate the order made on August 28 on the grounds that parties to the suit consented to it.

Justice Abang also refused an objection by lawyer to Lagos State, Bakare Akinjide to the admissibility of an affidavit filed by Dana. Akinjide had contended that the rules of the court only permits a defendant to file a counter-affidavit to a plaintiff’s motion on notice and not an affidavit in support, as done by Dana.

In refusing Akinjide’s prayer, Justice Abang held that the order being at the “consent of the parties,” the court lacked the powers to vacate it.

On Akinjide’s objection to the application by Dana, the judge held that the issue raised in the affidavit “is a novel one.

“Our rules do not contemplate a situation where parties joined as defendants have divergent interests.

“Though no provisions in the rules permit a defendant to file an affidavit in support of a plaintiff’s motion, but if relying on it will do justice in the matter, I don’t think it is wrong”.

The case has been fixed for September 13 for definite hearing.

•Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Mrs. Funmi Olayinka, accompanied by the State Director of Fire Services, Mr. Dada Kayode, inspecting a guard of honour mounted by newly recruited firemen at the flag-off of five weeks’ training for new firemen and paramedics in the state...yesterday.

CTION Congress of Nigeria (ACN) leaders are strategising on how to strengthen the party.

They were spurred by the National Convention of the Democratic Party in Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (US) where President Barack Obama got his party’s endorsement for a fresh fouryear mandate.

Their primary motive would be to project and present the opposition as one with an alternative agenda.

Two former Democrat governors and a member of the Democratic Party executive alongside a senior aide to former President Bill Clinton have agreed to collaborate with the ACN. “The first leg will be helping to enhance Nigeria’s political culture by de-emphasising personalities and promoting ideas”, Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi said.

He went on: “The last few days have shown that a well organised democratic system will always serve the people better and make the country stronger. We will get there, but we must do the needful and partner with people, parties with whom we share similar ideas.”

Democratic Governor David Rosen says the Democratic Party of America has a lot to offer to parties in Africa and elsewhere, who are looking for ideas and ideals that place people at the center of politics.

Tinubu remarked Nigeria has great potentials and brilliant minds that can lead the much-needed political rennaisance.

He said: “All we need to do is to invest time in finding these talents and nurture them into maturity. This convention has demonstrated the superiority of ideas and principles and party identity over any other approach to real politic.”

Akanbi insists on Salami’s reinstatement •Ex-ICPC boss says State Police is recipe for disintegration

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HE pioneer chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission (ICPC), Justice Mustapha Akanbi, yesterday insisted on the reinstatement of Justice Isa Ayo Salami, the suspended President of the Court of Appeal.

He said his insistence had pitched him against the government.

Justice Akanbi spoke with reporters in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital.

It was part of activities to mark his 50 birthday.

He said: “I have talked so much on the reinstatement of Salami that I’m being made the enemy of government. If you see injustice anywhere, Islam prescribes that if you can fight to correct injustice, fight; if you cannot fight, use your tongue to correct it. I can’t see injustice being done to any man without talking even if the man is not my relation. May God help President Goodluck Jonathan to continue to tread the path of honour and rectitude.”

On the rot in the judiciary,

From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

the eminent jurist said: “The calibre and quality of those appointed into the judiciary should be thoroughly examined. The method of appointment should be revised, so that we get the best. If you want to be a judge like the Catholic priest you must take vow of purity, vow of poverty. You are not expected to be that fabulously rich. But they are a contented people, what they are paying them today they should be alright. We hear stories that they are being corrupt.

Not too long ago, I met with my brother, Justice Eso and he said even the ICPC I left they have spoilt it for me. And I retorted that they spoilt it for Nigeria. That is why people are now casting aspersion that the judiciary is not working for the common man. In fact, it is not working for the uncommon people.

“The judiciary is my constituency and for several years I restrained myself from making address on the judiciary.

But I’m beginning to have my fears, which occur to me to ask

‘are we getting the right calibre of judicial officers on the Bench?’ I want to use this opportunity to tell journalists to focus more on the goings on within the judiciary so that we can have a better judiciary, because if the judiciary is finished this country is finished.”

On the helplessness of ICPC and EFCC, Justice Akanbi said: “Since I left the ICPC, I haven’t stepped the office for one day because of the way things were going. We laid a very solid foundation on very hard circumstances. But the person who took over from me believes more in enlightenment and public education which I believe NOA, the Mallams, the clerics are doing.

“In my time, the then Attorney-General was late Bola Ige, the man gave me absolute support, he gave me the first team of lawyers to prosecute my cases. He never for one day interfered with my work. Then Akin Olujimi came on board, it was the same thing. Olujimi had appeared before me on several occasions on the Ibadan bench. He has tremendous respect for

me.

On the clamour for State Police, he said it is a recipe for Nigeria’s disintegration.

To Justice Akanbi, who is also a former President of the Court of Appeal, Nigeria needs effective police and re-orientation.

He said: “I don’t support state police. It is a gradual disintegration of society. Those people who are not thinking of a united Nigeria and how we will develop this country are the ones advocating state police.

When they divide the police, Customs, judiciary, immigration etc, at the end of the day there will be no Nigeria.

“The question of state police is not the issue that bothers Nigeria now. What we need is an effective police, police reorientation, police that will appreciate commitment to the nation and not to the individual.”

His words: “I was a state counsel. I worked with the police. I was in private practice, I confronted the police, as a judge. I dealt with matters relating to the police. Honestly, even former Nigeria Bar Association’s President Joseph

Daudu advocating state police said ‘when we set it up we can now study the parameters and see how we can put it through.’

You don’t take a dangerous risk.

“We should study the parameters first and see whether the thing is workable or not.

As far as I’m concerned, I lived in the era of the Yandokas (local government police) . The operation then was phenomenal.

If you had seen the oppression the local government police were meting out to people then, then we will think twice about state police.

“Most of the states cannot even pay workers’ salaries.

When states cannot pay workers’ salaries, then how would they fund police? How do we get a police that will look at the governor in the face and say ‘no’ I can’t do what you said I should do. By the time they put some Naira notes in his pockets he is finished.”

The former Appeal Court president added that his insistence on Justice Isa Ayo Salami’s reinstatement as Appeal Court President had made him enemy of the government.

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

6

CITYBEATS

08033054340, 08034699757 E-mail:- ynotcitybeats@gmail.com

Man charged with N1.7m fraud

By Fisayo Ige

A 36-YEAR-OLD man Chukwuwike Ofodu was yesterday arraigned before an Igbosere Magistrate's Court for allegedly defrauding GKS Global Concept Ltd about N1.7 million.

Prosecuting Sergeant Haruna Ibrahim holding brief for Inspector Molo Steve said the accused buys goods from the company which he supplies to his clients.

He said Ofodu issued the company three dud Diamond Bank Cheques with Nos. 42949401, 42949402 and 42949403 between April 13 and 27 in the sum of N700, 000 , N500, 000 and N500,000. He alleged that Ofodu knew that he didn't have sufficient funds in his account when he issued the cheques.

The accused pleaded not guilty. The offence contravenes Sections 285(7) and 313(1)(b) of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State of Nigeria,2011.

Magistrate Mrs O.J Awope granted the accused N500,000 bail, with two sureties in the like sum. She adjourned the case till October 5.

Tiles seller docked for stealing N3.8m • From left: Dr. Mobereola, Hon. Yusuf, Hon. Oloto and Hon. Dabiri-Erewa, at the LAMATA’s stakeholders' meeting...yesterday.

LAMATA to link Ikorodu with BRT T O curb the perennial traffic on Mile 12 to Ikorodu, the Lagos State Government is set to expand the two-lane carriageway and extend the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) to the route.

The project, according to the Managing Director of the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), Dr Dayo Mobereola, would be completed in two years.

Speaking yesterday at an enlarged stakeholders meeting at the Cherubim and Seraphim Primary School, Ogolonto, Mobereola said: "The BRT is designed to be implemented as a median running with bilateral bus stations that would be linked to pedestrian bridges for easy commuters' access.”

He listed the project’s other features to include; 15 new bus stations, with three bus terminals at Mile 12, Agric and Ikorodu, a bus terminus at Majidun, the construction of nine new bridges and seven pedestrian bridges, with additional lane on both sides of the road,12 new U-turns, street

By Yinka Aderibigbe

markings and street lights.

Each of the pedestrian bridges to be located at Mile 12, Owode-Onirin, Owode, Irawo, Majidun, Agric and Haruna, he said, would be close to schools located along the corridor to ensure pupils’ safety.

Mobereola said the project is designed to cause the least pain to people especially those living along the expressway, adding that arrangements have been made to pay compensation to those whose properties are affected.

A member of the House of Representatives Mrs Abike DabiriErewa representing Ikorodu Federal Constituency, praised Governor Babatunde Fashola for the project.

Mrs Dabiri-Erewa promised that her constituents would rally round the contractor and ensure the project’s speedy completion.

Former Commissioner for Information Chief Ayodele Eleso, advised LAMATA to dialogue more

with the people, calling for the construction of an overhead bridge from Ikorodu roundabout to Ogolonto to permanently address the traffic bottleneck at the roundabout and Agric Bus stop.

Lawmakers, who are representing the area in the House of Assembly, Bisi Yusuf and S.O.B. Agunbiade pledged the people’s commitment to the project.

They urged the contractor to employ youth of the area in executing the job.

The Iyaloja-General of Ikorodu, Alhaja Taofikat Allison, pleaded with the government to give the project "a human face," as traders who are mostly widows are bound to be most affected in the demolition of properties.

In attendance were; former Agriculture and Cooperative Commissioner, Mr Kaoli Olusanya, Dr. Tajudeen Kayode Bawa-Allah, Alhaja Taofikat Allison, delegation of Bales, led by Bale of Idera-Orile, Chief Abraham Ogundipe, Chief Reuben Olowu, and Hon. Bashir Oloto, residents from Ikorodu, Majidun, Agric, Idera-Orile, Mile 12 and suburbs.

Stories by Tumininu Owolabi

A 33-year-old man, Okechukwu Igbojekwe, was yesterday docked before Magistrate Olagbegi Adelabu, sitting at Ikeja, for stealing N3.8million.

The accused is facing a two-count charge of unlawfully obtaining money and stealing.

Prosecuting Inspector Rachael Williams told the court that the accused committed the offence on June 18, 2010 at Association Plaza, Cement Bus stop, Dopemu, Agege, a Lagos suburb.

Williams said the accused unlawfully obtained two containers of tiles worth N3,800,000 from Chief Sunday Osonwa with pretence to sell and refund the proceed to him. Williams said the offence is punishable under Section 312(b) of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State 2011.

Williams also alleged that Igbojekwe stole N3,800,000 belonging to Chief Sunday Osonwa. The offence, according to the prosecutor, contravened Section 278(b) of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State 2011.

The accused pleaded not guilty.

Magistrate Adelabu granted the accused N200,000 bail with two sureties in the like sum. She adjourned the case till September 9.

Police arraign driver for murder A 42-YEAR-OLD commercial driver, Femi Dawudu, has been arraigned before a Lagos Magistrate's Court, Ikeja, for the murder of one Ahamed Rasaki, 18. The accused who resides at No. 1, Oyo-Ilorin road, Ojo, Ibadan, Oyo State, is facing a two-count charge of reckless driving and murder.

Dawudu was alleged to have committed the offence on August 27 along Agege Motor road, Ladipo, Shogunl, a Lagos suburb.

Prosecuting Inspector Rachael Williams said that Dawudu drove a bluecolour Nissan commercial van with registration No. XY 484 AGL in a dangerous manner without regard to traffic.

Williams alleged that the accused drove the vehicle in a dangerous manner that caused Rasaki’s death.

The offence, according to the prosecutor, is punishable under Section 29 and 27 of the RTA CAP 24 VOL 7 Laws of Lagos State of Nigeria 2004.

The accused pleaded not guilty.

Magistrate Olagbegi Adelabu granted him N250,000 bail with two sureties in the like sum. She adjourned the case till October 4.

LASTMA files fresh charge against banker

L

AGOS State Government yesterday urged an Igbosere Magistrate's Court to disregard the unlawful driving charge against a banker, Mrs. Yinka Johnson.

The accused was arrainged last month, on a count charge of unlawful driving and granted N50,000 bail, with one surety in like the sum by Magistrate Jacob Adegun.

Officials of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) had arrested her.

It was gathered that Balogun collected her car key and was about to cross-over to the other side of the road when he was crushed by an oncoming vehicle.

At the resumed hearing of the case, prosecuting Inspector Chukwu Agwu applied to bring a fresh charge against Mrs Johnson.

He said the old charge was contained in the Lagos State Road Traffic Law, 2003 and wished to replace it with the newly enacted Lagos State Road Traffic Law, 2012.

The new charge reads: "That you Yinka Johnson on August 10, at about 8:30am at Mega Chicken, Ikota Ajah Expressway, Lekki, Lagos did drive your Land Rover Jeep with registration No- CY 276 LSD on the highway recklessly by driving your vehicle against oncoming traffic and without reasonable consideration for other road users and thereby committed an offence punishable under Section 7(b) of the Lagos

By Precious Igbonwelundu

State Road Traffic Law 2012."

However, the defence counsel, Mr. Emeka Okpoko, told the court that various publications in national newspapers had given the impression that the law was yet to take effect.

He said the reports stated that the government planned to carry out public enlightenments on the said law.

The accused pleaded not guilty and she was granted bail with the same earlier conditions.

In his ruling, Adegun said the prosecution has the right to substitute a charge under the law and granted its prayer.

Agwu told the court after the ruling that the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) has called for the case file. He prayed for an adjournment pending the DPP’s advice. The matter has been adjourned till September 28.

T

• From left: Representative of the Minister for Agriculture and Cooperatives, Dr Ayinla Olajide, Senator Bareehu Olugbenga Ashafa, Lagos State Commissioner for Agriculture and Cooperatives, Prince Gbolahan Lawal, Special Adviser to the Governor on Political and Legislative Matters, Hon. Musiliu Folami, and Orimedu of Imedu, Ibeju-Lekki, Oba Atiku Hamzat, at a programme organised for fish farmers by the Ministry of Agriculture...yesterday.

PHOTO: MUYIWA HASSAN

Police re-arrest assault suspect

HE Police have re-arrested Nigerian, who allegedly assaulted a Liberian woman, Ms Fatu Thomas, for allegedly demanding her sister’s salary from his ‘wife.’

The suspect, Kalu Ndubuisi, allegedly brutalised Thomas when she demanded to know why her sister, Janet, was not paid her two months salary.

Janet, a senior secondary school pupil, was employed by Ndubuisi's wife, Titilayo, as a part-time stylist in her salon on

By Jude Isiguzo

N5,500 salary per month.

Janet had taken up the job while her school was on vacation.

She started work at the end of June and by last month when she had not been paid, she reported to her elder sister who took up the mater.

But on getting to the salon, Thomas was allegedly assaulted

by Ndubuisi.

The matter was reported at Okota Police Station which

arrested but later released the suspect.

Dissatisfied with the handling of the matter, Thomas and her sister petitioned the Area Commander 'D', Mr Omololu Bishi, an Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP),who ordered that the case be the transfer to the command.

It was gathered that the suspect, appeared at the Okota Police Station when Bishi ordered the arrest of his surety.

The Nation learnt that the suspect has made confessional statement. He may be charged to court today.

The Liberian community has praised Bishi for the re-arrest of the suspect.

Spokesman of the community, Emmanuel Samson, urged Bishi to ensure that justice is done in the case.

He noted that Nigerians have been a good host to them since their arrival here following the outbreak of civil war in their country and so have no reason to fight them now.

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

7

NEWS ONDO 2012

INEC not connected with illegal voter registration, says Ondo REC From Damisi Ojo, Akure

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HE Ondo State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Mr. Akin Orebiyi, yesterday allayed the fears of the electorate on the effect of an illegal voter registration said to have been spearheaded by a notable political party in the state.

He said the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) would follow electoral procedures to ensure that there is no infiltration of illegality into the voters’ register that has already been compiled for the October 20 governorship election.

Orebiyi, who addressed a stakeholders’ forum in Akure, the state capital, criticised the timing of the biometric registration allegedly done by the government.

He said: “The purported biometric registration was ill-timed; it came up at the most inauspicious time. But I can assure every voter and the citizenry that it will not affect the voters’ register already designed by the commission for the election.”

There has been apprehension over the alleged illegal registration by the ruling Labour Party (LP) administration.

Opposition parties, particularly the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), had reportedly urged INEC Chairman, Prof.

Attahiru Jega, to name the party behind the illegal voter registration.

Y

Ondo tomato factory produces water

OUTHS in Arigidi Akoko in Akoko North West Local Government Area of Ondo State yesterday threatened to sue the ruling Labour Party (LP) administration for allegedly turning a tomato paste factory in the community into a table water producing company.

The Arigidi Akoko Tomato Paste Industry, they alleged, has become a table water producing company under Governor Olusegun Mimiko.

The youths said though the governor invested over N400million into the company in 2010, the company has not produced a bottle of the tomato paste it was established for.

According to them, Mimiko has urged media to deceive the people on the true state of the factory.

The youths said the factory, which they thought would

From Leke Akeredolu, Akure

reduce unemployment, has become a liability.

Addressing reporters in Akure, the state capital, the community’s Youth Leader, Mr. Adamu Rafiu, explained that the community was alerting the public to show that the tomato factory has been turned into a table water producing factory.

Rafiu said youths would have organised a peaceful protest, but want hoodlums to hijack their demonstration due to the kingship crisis in the community He said: “We are here because it would be a slap on our faces if we refused to expose the atrocity of the present administration. The government claimed it spent N400million to establish this factory with the expectation that graduates would be em-

•Community’s youths protest ployed. But it is not functioning.

“We want to tell the world that the Arigidi tomato company is not working; it has been turned into a table water producing company.

“For instance, the government cannot spend more than N100million to establish a table water producing company.

That is, over N300million has been allegedly embezzled by the government. A water producing company can only give employment to a few people.

Most times, our graduates go out there searching for jobs.

Most of the employers do ask about the “Tomato industry” in their community.

“This factory is our legacy; it is our birthright and the only thing we are expecting from the present administra-

tion.

“We learnt that the government sourced for a N50million loan from a frontline bank at its Ikare branch, besides the N400million. The ‘small’ tomato they brought was when the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) wanted to inspect the project. It was then they asked the trainees – and I was among them - to go to the field.

“At the end of this, the tomatoes that were planted were transported to Akure, Ikare and other areas, instead of taking them to the factory for processing, to turn them into a tomato paste.”

The youth leader alleged that the General Manager of the factory, simply identified as Mr. Adebayo, has

‘Mimiko has neglected Ondo’

A

Akeredolu promises to transform Idanre From Damisi Ojo, Akure

THE Ondo State Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) governorship candidate, Mr Oluwarotimi Akeredolu (SAN), has promised to transform Idanre Hills into an international tourist destination, if elected in the October 20 election.

He decried the underdevelopment of the hills, which he said could generate millions of naira in revenue.

The former Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) President spoke in Idanre town, Idanre Local Government Area, during his tour of wards.

Akeredolu promised to complete a golf course in the community which the Olusegun Agagu administration started but was abandoned by the Olusegun Mimiko administration.

He decried the plight of rural dwellers, who he said successive administrations have not appreciated.

The predominantly agrarian community is a major producer of cocoa, which was the mainstay of the defunct Western Region’s economy under the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

Akeredolu promised to develop cocoa farming, adding that Ondo State would become a leading producer of the produce in Africa and the world.

been receiving salaries since 2010, despite the non-functioning of the factory.

He added that some top government officials allegedly shared the money for the procurement of machines for the factory.

Rafiu said: “Presently, the information we have and documents with us prove that Mr Adebayo has been receiving N750,000 monthly, although the company is not working. He has also threatened not to employ any Arigidi youth, if the factory begins work.

“The millions of naira for the procurement of machines, which would be used in the factory, are allegedly being shared by some top government officials and a relative of the governor.

The youth leader assured that the group was not acting out the instruction of a political party.

•Akeredolu acknowledging cheers from party supporters at Elebesere... yesterday

Ondo community decries neglect

R

ESIDENTS of Elebesere community in Idanre Local Government Area of Ondo State have decried the neglect of the area by successive administrations.

The residents, who are predominantly farmers, decried the deplorable state of roads and non-availability of potable water.

They expressed worry over the absence of functional primary and secondary schools in the community.

Some residents addressed reporters at the campaign tour of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) governorship candidate, Mr. Oluwarotimi Akeredolu (SAN).

They said though the community always voted during elections, no government has visited the area or sent representatives to alleviate their poor living condition.

The residents hailed Akeredolu for visiting them, saying they were surprised that the ACN candidate could accord them such an honour.

From Damisi Ojo, Akure

A resident, Mrs Iyabo Turaka, decried the absence of a hospital or basic health centre in the community.

She said: “There is no maternity centre in this village.

We have lost many expectant mothers because we had to rush them to a hospital in Ore. Some of them in labour died before getting to Ore. “Another thing is the poor road network. You must have seen it yourself when you were coming. The road is very bad; it is not motorable.

This is why we keep losing our expectant mothers.”

Another resident, Mr Musibau Hakeem, decried the lack of primary and secondary schools in the community.

He said their children walk several miles to attend school in Ofosun community which is many kilometers away from the rural community.

He said: “We don’t have both primary and secondary schools here, our children

trek miles to attend school in Ofosun which is very far from here, also during dry season, we don’t have water here, no light too, they abandon us as if we are nobody here.”

A community leader, who spoke in confidence, described Akeredolu’s visit as a sign of better things to come.

He said no other aspirant incumbent or former governor - has ever visited the community.

The resident said: “When we heard of his visit, we didn’t believe it, because nobody had ever campaigned in this community before.

Akeredolu is the first person to have come here these years. We are delighted and happy; we know that this man will remember us when he gets there. So, we are all giving him our votes.”

Akeredolu assured the people of a new era, if he becomes governor.

He spoke of the importance of rural dwellers, noting that they are indispensable in Nigeria.

The frontline lawyer promised to build schools and provide a good road network for the community.

He said his administration would build hospitals and provide interest-free loans for the women, if he is election in October.

Akeredolu condemned the neglect of the community by the Olusegun Mimiko administration. He said the residents deserve to reap the dividends of democracy.

The village head and his chiefs prayed for Akeredolu.

They appreciated his visit and assured him of their votes.

The Director of Women’s Affairs in Akeredolu Campaign Organisation (ACO), Mrs. Ronke Ojo, said the party would bring smiles to the faces of women in the state.

She said the women would be granted interest-free loans while the aged would get monthly stipends.

Mrs Ojo urged Ondo State women to vote massively for ACN to usher in a new dawn for the womenfolk.

CHIEFTAIN of OndoState Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Mr Bola Ilori has said there is need for Ondo indigenes to restore their good image allegedly battered by Governor Olusegun Mimiko.

Ilori addressed a large crowd of party supporters at the Ondo West ACN secretariat.

He donated to each ward in Ondo West and Ondo East Local Government Areas a motorcycle and N100,000, totalling about N2.5 million and 22 motorcycles. The two local government areas have 22 wards.

He said under the Mimiko administration, Ondo Kingdom suffered infrastructure and moral challenges.

The Special Adviser to Osun State Governor on Environment and Sanitation said though Mimiko is an illustrious son of Ondo town,he has betrayed every successive government and political institution he served or benefitted from.

Ilori said the ruling Labour Party (LP) administration has been unfair to Ondo kingdom, despite the fact that it took over 30 years for the town to get to the exalted office of the governor.

He said: ”I love Mimiko as a fellow Ondo man, and even in tandem with Christian doctrine. But I must say Iroko has been unfair to Ondo. This is not what we bargained for. The entire state, except Akure, is crying for development, despite the enormous resources and hefty loan profile at the disposal of the governor.

“Ondo town’s road is the worst in the state. So, if the road leading to Mimiko’s house is this terrible, then what do you expect him to do in other man’s land?

“I endorse the need for modern classroom architecture and to that extent I endorse and commend the mega primary school initiative of Governor Mimiko.

However, we have 104 primary schools in Ondo West alone and 98 schools in Ondo East.

8

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

NEWS

No oil deal with Zambia, says Anyiam-Osigwe’s firm Continued from page 1

with an unassailable record of transparency and honesty in all its business dealings.

“Please note that this company SARB has no relationship whatsoever of any kind with our persons or interests, either closely or remotely. On this, we confidently challenge anyone to prove same to the contrary,” Anyiam-Osigwe said.

It was likely, Anyiam-Osigwe said, that certain Zambian officials after possibly getting their fingers burnt via a shady deal elsewhere or through others, are now desperately and conveniently seeking to throw or apportion blames on the family.

“We remain genuine businessmen, whom, for several years now have worked very hard to protect our hard-earned reputation, bequeathed to us by our late father, a reputation that now spans two generations, for which we seek to protect, maintain and jealously guard, and as such, would go to any legal length to protect same, no matter the institution or entity in question that seeks to tarnish it.

“We do business both locally and globally and till date, we have not had cause to be accused by any organisation or entity, government or otherwise, of any involvement in any shady deal whatsoever, either as alleged or at all…,” Anyiam-Osigwe said.

Mr. Michael Anyiam-Osigwe had also sent a protest letter to Mpombo, urging the Zambian government to retract in its entirety what he called a false and baseless allegation.

The letter reads: “Please see the attached Zambian newspaper publications. As you very well know, the Permanent Secretary Mr George Zulu never met me or any member of my family during his said visit to Nigeria and the company in question, SARB is totally unknown to me or anyone in my company.

“You would recall that you called me on my cell number to inform me of the official from Zambia who was visiting Nigeria on a fact-finding mission with respect to the G-G crude contract awarded to Zambia by Nigeria.

“I had informed you that I was out of town and would not be able to meet with the visiting official in Abuja. Later on I received another call from you and you put the visiting official on

the phone.

“My conversation with him was to the effect that he was interested to know what happened to the crude oil allocations of the Zambian G-G. My response was to the effect that as we have in the past made several representations which clearly stated our role in helping to secure the G-G contract and the injustice we suffered when we were denied the right to operate the contract.

“Our representations also explained that we have no idea whatsoever what became of the crude oil allocations under the said contract, as we were edged out of the transaction without any compensation of any kind for our efforts and were not privy in any way to what happened with the contract thereafter.

“It is, therefore, imperative that this false and baseless allegation is retracted in its entirety without any delay. We at no time received any form of money directly or indirectly from the Zambian government or any organisation or individual in Zambia or any where in the world on account of our honest efforts in assisting President Rupiah Banda’s government to secure a G-G crude oil contract from Nigeria.

“On the contrary we were denied our rightful place to act as operators of the contract having facilitated the award of the contract. Secondly, the Zambian Daily Mail quoting the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Mines, Energy and Water Development, George Zulu, claims that ‘according to bank records, US$5million was paid to a Ni-

gerian national identified as Anyiam-Osigwe ….’

“We challenge any one or organisation, the Zambian Daily Mail, including the government of Zambia to show evidence that any member of the AnyiamOsigwe family or their company was paid a single cent or any money in any currency or any form of compensation on account of our having assisted the government of President Rupiah Banda to obtain a G-G contract from the government of Nigeria.

“In fact we make bold to say that we have had no financial dealings of any description or value with any government or company in Zambia at any given time.

“I would therefore appreciate your most urgent intervention in bringing this complaint to the attention of Mr. George Zulu

and other relevant officials, including as high as the president of Zambia to ensure that everything necessary is done to retract this erroneous allegation with immediate effect.

“We, on our part are unreservedly determined to take every and all necessary measures to protect our integrity and obtain redress for this gross act of recklessness. I look forward to your prompt response.”

Another member of the family, Mr Kennedy Anyiam-Osigwe, said in a statement yesterday that the family had protested to the former President of Zambia, Rupiah Banda, for what he called an ill-treatment they got over a business transaction they initiated with Zambia for which they got the approval of Nigerian government/Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) to supply them

crude oil.

The statement read in part: “Apart from the crude oil sale on the level of government-to-government, we also have on the table other developmental initiatives for which we were working with the Zambian government with some of our international partners which we cannot proceed with because of the bad faith which the former Zambian government exhibited on the crude oil sales.

“After several meetings with former President Banda and his cabinet members in United States, Lusaka and Nigeria and after committing our resources to get necessary approval for an oil trade with Zambia, the government without any courtesy of even informing us went behind us to execute the business with a company known as SARB.”

Why Southsouth wants true federalism, by Clark Continued from page 4

(SNC) as unrealistic, against the backdrop of the consequences of such exercise in countries that have tried it, noting that because decisions like removal of government and possible call for break-up of Nigeria makes SNC unattractive.

Clark maintained that there must be a return to the era of 50 per cent derivation, which enable the Southwest and North to develop at a pace dictated with their endowment.

National Chairman of the SSPA, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, blamed the inability of the region to speak with one voice

on the crisis in the assembly. He expressed confidence that the region was poised to reverse the trend with the return of peace to the apex regional body.

He said the group would come out with a unified position on the ongoing constitution review or amendment, adding that the process would mark the beginning of reengineering the country.

Former Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Mike Okiro, challenged politicians and north’s leaders to follow the initiative of the Niger Delta leaders by disarming members of the deadly Boko Haram Islamic sect.

Govt tightens security Continued from page 4

•President Goodluck Jonathan welcoming Ghanaian leader John Mahama to the Presidential Villa in Abuja...yesterday

the NCC was yet to receive any report from the network service providers on the number of masts affected and in what states.

On the delay in completion of SIM card registration, Ojobor said: “The process is still on course. As at the time the House of Representatives set up a committee to look at the issue of SIM card registration, the commission stopped the whole processes at that time and the reason is this, if the matter was under probe then we had to stop

whatever we are doing so that they can finish with that.”

Stressing that old SIM cards not yet registered will be invalidated, he said: “Old SIMs that have not been registered are likely not to be registered because the deadline has ended.

New subscribers can still go and get SIM and register with service providers.”

He maintained that the commission will start enforcing sanctions against poor service by network providers from December and not September as reported in some media.

Jonathan promises Nigerians people’s Constitution at parley Continued from page 1

in the society which has made them indispensable in social engineering.

At the session were Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) President Okey Wali, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) President Abduwaheed Omar, Movement for the Survival of Ogoni People (MOSOP) President Ledum Mittee, Women’s Consortium Executive Director Mrs Bisi Olateru-Olagbegi and former Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers Union (NUPENG) President Frank Kokori. Former NBA President Olisa Agbakoba (SAN) and activist lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) at the banquet hall of the Presidential Villa in Abuja for a retreat on the review of the 1999 Constitution.

There is a joint committee of the National Assembly headed

by Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu, which is fine tuning the amendment.

Jonathan argued that a constitution must originate from the people and bear clear imprint of their contributions.

Speaking at the first Presidential Retreat for Civil Society,

Organisations and Professional Association as part of Nigeria’s 52nd Independence Anniversary, the President said the government was engaging the civil society in the Constitution review process because of the tremendous knowledge of constitutional review borne out of many years of consistent effort to craft a people’s constitution for the country.

Besides, he said the essence of the engagement was to galvanise the views of the people through the civil society groups which, he said, are the voices of the people, hence, he said the engagement should not be seen as a political settlement.

He also noted that his administration believed in the rule of law and that whatever amendment to the constitution should be done according to its provisions.

The President said it was in furtherance of his commitment to leaving a people oriented constitution that in November, last year, the Presidential Committee on the Review of Outstanding issues in recent constitutional conferences was set up.

The Justice Alfa Belgore committee has since submitted its report, which is to be examined by a white paper committee headed by the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Mohammad Adoke.

Recalling the committee’s mandate which was “to reaffirm or re-assess issues on which there is evidence of national consensus from past Constitutional Conferences; and to highlight those areas that issues that will require further consultations so that a wider forum can look at them and reach agreements”, Jonathan said: “I assure you that we shall shortly send the report alongside the proposed bills to the National Assembly.”

Said the President: “I believe that a Constitution worthy of our efforts must originate from the people themselves and bear clear imprint of their contributions.

“Constitution-making or review in a democracy should not be an elitist undertaking. It must be processed through a strategic and far reaching consultation with the people. That is the spirit of democracy.

“A Constitution that can guarantee true democracy must flow from the ideas and experiences of the people, not just the people in the corridors of power, but also the people in the market places and in the public squares.

“The attraction of democracy is that it affords the people the chance to contribute to the design of institutions that determine the quality of their lives.

The Constitution is the most fundamental building block of these institutions.”

But the National Assembly said it has set a deadline of June, next year for itself to conclude the amendment.

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Emeka Ihedioha, who is also the Chairman, House Committee on Constitution Review said the target was set to ensure that the process was completed and the Constitution put into operation before the 2015 general elections.

He urged the President to speed up executive bills on the review and send them same to the National Assembly in good time.

“We await your input and indeed the draft bills from the Pres-

ident as promised. However, in the interim, the process will continue to move on in the National Assembly as we cannot afford to wait for the promised bills indefinitely. We have set for ourselves, the target period of second quarter of 2013 as the terminal date for this process,” Ihedioha said, adding: “The reason is that partisan and electioneering politics should not get in the way of the amendment process. It should be concluded in time before elections begin.’’

Ihedioha said his committee had received over 124 memoranda from the public.

He identified eight critical and dominant issues that need urgent attention and fresh zonal and central public hearing to arrive at a consensus.

These include the security architecture of Nigeria and the status of the police; devolution of power; structure of federalism and issues of fiscal federalism.

Others are indigeneship and residency, justice sector reform, the status quo of legislature whether to maintain bi-cameral or unicameral system, and the principle of state policy.

Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu urged Nigerians and politicians to exhibit the highest level of patriotism in the amendment.

Ekweremadu said any attempt to reduce any matter up for amendment to regional or ethnic rhetoric would be restricted.

He said the National Assembly would rather look at such issues on their merits and how they would further enhance the political and economic growth.

Ekweremadu expressed disappointment over insinuations in some quarters that fiscal federalism as proposed would further impoverish some parts of the country.

He said that such insinuation was not only false, but a “wrong and an unfortunate imputation of motive”.

Ekweremadu argued that every state had no reason to be poor, if it harnessed the natural resources and solid minerals deposits in its domain.

He promised that the National Assembly would ensure that only the views of the majority of Nigerians counted in the process.

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

9

NEWS Fed Govt queries visa service firm From Augustine Ehikioya, Abuja

THE Federal Government has queried Visa Facilitating Global Services Nigeria Limited (VFS Global) over poor services to Nigerian visa applicants.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Olugbenga Ashiru, expressed the country’s concern at a meeting with the management of VFS Global.

A statement by the ministry’s spokesperson, Ogbole Ode, reads : “The visa service company was summoned by the minister to register Nigeria’s concern about how Nigerian visa applicants were being treated at the company’s visa application centres in both Abuja and Lagos.

“He pointed out that reports reaching him indicate that those who have the means and pay N10,000, received VIP treatment, while the rest are left to wallow in the sun or in the rain or in uncomfortable accommodation with no cooling facilities, even at the height of the hot season.”

“He informed the team that it was unacceptable to have our citizens queue in rain and shine or subjected to inconveniences.”

VFS’s Senior Manager, Abuja, Ms. Natasha Bhargava, who led the team, promised that more would be done to improve on their services.

She said the VIP facility is optional.

Nigeria ‘held back by corruption, govt inefficiency and insecurity’ O

N Wednesday, gunmen damaged mobile phone masts owned by the MTN and Airtel in Kano and Maiduguri. Their action coincided with the release of the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Global Competitive Report 20122013, which pinches Nigeria and also applies balm to soothe the pains. The reason for the blows dealt the country by WEF, incidentally, has a lot to do with the insecurity posed by these gunmen suspected to be Boko Haram insurgents, who attack individuals, business concerns and make the environment scary for investors.

The report raised particular concerns over insecurity, with Nigeria ranked 134th in the world – meaning only ten countries were worse off. The WEF warned that Nigeria’s economic situation remained grim and said the world faced ‘a long period of economic uncertainty’ as the debt crisis in the eurozone raged.

The report finds out that the environment does not support competitive economy. Reasons: concerns about protection of property rights, corruption, undue influence, government inefficiencies, worsening insecurity, poor infrastructure, low Information and C o m m u n i c a t i o n Technology (ICT) penetration, poor health

The World Economic Forum’s Global Competitive Report 2012-2013, which was released on Wednesday night, ranks Nigeria 115th of 144 countries and praises it for improved macroeconomic conditions. But the forum knocked Nigeria for corruption, government inefficiencies and worsening insecurity— which have seen it crawling behind South Africa, Ghana, Kenya, Cameroun and others, among the countries to do business in, writes OLUKOREDE YISHAU THE LAST 30 IN GLOBAL BUSINESS COMPETITIVENESS

•Suriname •Nigeria •Paraguay •Senegal •Bangladesh •Benin •Tanzania •Ethiopia •Cape Verde •Uganda

•Pakistan •Nepal •Venezuela •Kyrgyz Republic •Mali •Malawi •Madagascar •Côte d’Ivoire •Zimbabwe •Burkina Faso

facilities, government bureaucracy, an inadequately educated workforce, burdensome employment laws and a weak work ethic.

The report observes that the country’s economy, just like those of other oilproducers in sub-Saharan Africa, is influenced both negatively and positively by oil prices.

The report noted: “The data suggest that oil-exporting economies trail the performance of even fragile economies in all areas in the basic requirements pillar except for macroeconomic stability, which is bolstered by oil revenues. They exhibit the largest infrastructure deficit in the region, their institutional quality is similar to that of

•Mauritania •Swaziland •Timor-Leste •Lesotho •Mozambique •Chad •Yemen •Guinea •Haiti •Sierra Leone •Burundi

fragile economies, and they perform considerably worse than other countries in the region in educating their young population and providing good conditions for a healthy workforce. This is also reflected in this year’s rankings where first-time entrant Gabon leads the African oil exporters at 99th place, followed by Cameroon (112th), Nigeria (115th), and Chad at 139th place.”

And a word of advice: “Thus, despite a favourable growth outlook, according to the International Monetary Fund, their economies remain vulnerable to oil price shocks and they need to improve their competitiveness and encourage greater

diversification if they are to place their economies on more sustainable growth paths.”

In the last few years, Nigeria’s rating deteriorated, said the WEF, which scores each country according to 12 ‘pillars of competitiveness’. No thanks to corruption, insecurity and government inefficiencies.

The 2012-2013 report is not all grim. There are some good news, which it has to build on. It indicates that things have improved in some areas. Thus, the country’s rating has moved up to 115th of the 144 countries rated. It was 127 last year. The areas of improvement, according to the report, are improved macroeconomic conditions, a recovering financial sector and efficient use of talent.

The report said: “After some deterioration in the rankings over recent years, Nigeria has moved up to 115th place this year thanks to improved macroeconomic conditions (reflecting a positive government balance and a drop in inflation, although it remains in the double

Minister condemns NGOs for Zamfara lead poisoning

Jonathan, Fashola for Braithwaite’s book launch

P

From John Ofikhenua, Abuja

THE Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Musa Sada, yesterday accused foreign Non Governmental Organisations commenting on the lead poisoning in Zamfara State of ignorance.

Sada, who spoke at the National Metallurgical Development Centre’s (NNDD) 2012 Stakeholders’ Forum in Abuja, said the organizations have made the issue a fertile ground of operation despite their lack of knowledge.

He said the cause of the poisoning is because the miners do not follow the rules of operation.

According to him, Ebonyi State, which is more involved in lead mining has not recorded any poisoning because the miners adhere to the regulations.

He said as a result of the outbreak of the poisoning, NNDD embarked on research and analysis of the situation.

The minister said the lead in Zamfara State is not of low quality as being speculated by dealers. He said the claim is a ploy to demarket the mineral.

He urged the NNDD to always contribute to development of the economy through the provision of research and data services in the mineral and mining sector.

digits) and a financial sector that is recovering from its 2009 crisis... Likewise, the country registers improvements in its labour market based on more efficient use of talent.”

Significantly, Nigeria still lags behind South Africa, Botswana, Cameroun, Kenya and Ghana, which made an impressive record moving up 11 places to 103rd position.

South Africa is ranked 52nd this year, remaining the highest-ranked country in sub-Saharan Africa and the third-placed among the BRICS economies.

The top ten spots on the report, as in previous years, remain dominated by European countries, with Switzerland, Finland, Sweden, the Netherlands, Germany, and the United Kingdom confirming their place among the most competitive economies. The United States and three Asian economies also figure in the top 10, with Singapore remaining the second-most competitive economy in the world, and Hong Kong and Japan placing 9th and 10th.

• Wike (second left), Paiko (left), Mrs. Katagum (third left), Director, Basic and Seconday Education, Ministry of Education, Mr. Chika Umuzuoke and Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the University of Abuja Prof. Gidado Tahir (right)...yesterday

How to achieve education for all, by Wike

M

INISTER of State for Education Ezenwo Nyesom Wike has said the global push towards Education For All (EFA) by 2015 can only be attained if countries with high illiterate population to collaborate with international organisations.

Wike spoke at the United Nations Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) headquarters in Paris yesterday while delivering a keynote at the High Level Round-Table on Literacy, ‘Reaching the 2015 Literacy Target, Delivering on

the promise’.

The minister said the Dr. Goodluck Jonathan administration has made literacy a key development issue, saying investments have been made to increase literacy level.

Wike noted that the country is partnering with UNESCO to institutionalise literacy revitalisation programmes.

He noted that the government has paid N1billion to UNESCO as commitment on the partnership.

He said: “In convening this forum, UNESCO is asserting

its leadership role of the EFA movement as well as acting as a catalyst to ensure that countries harness available resources to meet national and international commitments to development and remain on track towards education for all.

“We have certainly made strides since the World Education Forum in Dakar (2000). Across a number of our countries, we have witnessed I creed enrolment in primary and basic education and expanded opportunities for the acquisition of education.”

FINAL OK, NEWS, PAGE 9, 7-9-12

Nigeria’s Permanent Delegate to UNESCO, Ambassador Maryam Katagum said the international community appreciates the country’s progress in the area of achieving EFA goals.

Executive Secretary of National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non Formal Education, Jibrin Paiko, said definite programmes to address literacy challenges are being implemented by the Federal Government.

RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan and Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola are expected at the launch of a book by foremost lawyer and elder statesman, Dr. Tunji Braithwaite.

The book, The Jurisprudence of the Living Oracles, takes a critical look at several concepts, including the higher law that governs human society regardless of boundaries.

The book will be launched on Tuesday, September 18 in Lagos.

The Managing Partner, Tunji Braithwaite & Co., Mr. Olumide Braithwaite, said the book, which was first published in 1986, is a result of deep introspection and examination of the human society.

He said: “The book demonstrates how theological laws, astronomy, and astrology affect secular laws. It also explains the differences between justice and law then examines the development of various legal doctrines. It serves as a useful guide for judges and legal practitioners alike; this scholarly examination also aims to generate discussions among scientists and members of various religions bodies.

“The Jurisprudence of the Living Oracles is a listed reading for students of Law, Philosophy and religious studies in leading universities around the world, which include Yale, Harvard, Columbia and Michigan State Universities; University of London.

10

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

NEWS Oyo constitutes panel to review sacked council workers’ cases

•Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola (middle); representative of the Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Mr. Linus Awute (right); National Chairman, Metallurgical, Mining and Materials Division, Mr Patrick Okonji (second left) and representative of the President, Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Mr. Wahab Ibrahim, at the 2012 annual conference and annual general meeting, at Leisure Spring Hotel, Osogbo...yesterday.

Why Oyinlola’s N119m printing press project failed, by printer A

GOVERNMENT printer, Mr Gilbert Adewoye, yesterday told the six-man Osun State Commission of Enquiry why the N119 million printing press project established by the ousted Olagunsoye Oyinlola administration failed.

He said experts were not sent abroad to inspect the preshipment of the machines.

Adewoye, who is a printing technologist, explained that instead of involving experts in procuring and inspecting the pre-shipment of the machines, the government sent the former Commissioner of Information, Taofeek Makinde, and the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Mrs. Olubukola Opakunle, for the inspection tour abroad.

He said one of the equipment, a sewing machine, appeared old and refurbished.

The incumbent Coordinating Director in the ministry, Mr. Lekan Awoyemi,

From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

told the commission that the Director-General of the Bureau of Public Procurement, Mr. Gbenga Abiola, signed the Certificate of Award of the contract for the machines, which reportedly worked for four months.

A former Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Dr. Olumide Babatunde, said because he lacked expertise in certifying the machines after installation, he involved the Works Ministry, which he added sent its engineers, Odeyemi Abudu, M.O. Oyekola and M.O Ayekigbo, to inspect and certify the working condition of the machines.

A retired director in the ministry, Mrs. Moji Fakokunde, told the commission that the contractor erred by failing to train those

to operate the machines.

The commission, examining the documents before it, said it was not contained in the contract agreement that he would do so.

But the commission dwelt more on why the contractor who handled the project was invited to appear before it.

It said the ministry sent a delegation to inspect the preshipment of the machines through the commissioner and the permanent secretary allowed the 12 months warranty period offered by the contractor to lapse before they discovered that the machines were bad.

The commission noted that the government printer was either not showing enough commitment to the interest of the state or was involved in an act of sabotage.

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), through its

Osun State Sector Commander, Mr. Imoh Etuk, testified in the case of a N72 million towing vehicle bought by the Oyinlola administration to generate N10 million annually.

The Permanent Secretary, General Services, said the vehicle was handed over to the FRSC in December 2009. But the Sector Commander said the vehicle became operational in March 2010 and has made N810,000 till date.

The commission noted that for the government to recoup its expenses on the vehicle, it would have to be used for 172 years at the rate at which it is generating income for the state.

Ituk said the deductions for the maintenance of the vehicle and its 25 per cent share were to be removed from the N810,000.

A lawyer, Mr O.K. Salau, represented the chairman of

Tuns International Holdings, Asiwaju Tunde Badmus, on a N1.3billion contract awarded the company in 2003.

The commission said Badmus must appear to explain his roles in the contract and present documents to prove his case.

Salau chose next Tuesday for Badmus to appear before the commission.

The lawyer, however, said his client had refunded the rest of the fund in the contract after satisfying 25 per cent of the contract.

Also, a 78-year-old Ambassador Gunju Adesakin told the commission that he had supplied 58 of the 400 farm equipment contract awarded him by the Oyinlola administration before he was duped by his Chinese partner.

He said he had sued the partner.

The public hearing continues today.

Amosun, aides spent N237m on foreign trips in 16 months, says govt

O

GUN State Governor Ibikunle Amosun yesterday gave details of his travel expenses and those of his aides in the last 16 months.

The governor said his administration spent N236, 774, 252.30 on official trips abroad since he assumed office 16 months ago.

Amosun spoke through his Information and Strat-

From Ernest Nwokolo, Abeokuta

egy Commissioner, Alhaji Yusuph Olaniyonu, at a media briefing at the Governor’s Office, Abeokuta.

Of the amount, Olaniyonu said Amosun’s international travel expenses between May, last year, and August, this year, cost N30,792,295.

This comprises six overseas

trips to China, Malaysia, Philipines, United States, London and Australia.

He said he personally financed his recent trip for the Umrah (lesser Hajj) to Saudi Arabia.

According to him, the explanation was not only to silence the mischief makers, who were peddling falsehood about the governor’s overseas trips, but also to

demonstrate the administration’s resolve to be “transparent” and “accountable” to the electorate.

He said: “We believe this government is accountable.

That is why we are explaining to the court of public opinion. A script is being acted out (by detractors), but we are going to be focused.

“The only thing they do

Ondo varsity workers protest poor work condition, others

W

ORKERS of Adekunle Ajasin University (AAU) Akungba-Akoko, Ondo State, under the aegis of the Joint Action Committee (JAC), yesterday began a three-day protest over an alleged poor condition of service.

They are members of the Non-Academic Staff Union (NASU), the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Uni-

From Damisi Ojo, Akure

versities (SSANU) and the National Association of Academic Technicians (NAAT).

Academic activities at the university were paralysed.

The workers sang songs denouncing the management, headed by the ViceChancellor, Prof. Femi Mimiko.

A letter of notice sent to

the Vice-Chancellor by the NASU chairman in the university, Mr. Bamidele Aguda, said the unions are asking for better conditions of service and career structure.

They complained about the inconclusive 2010/2011 session’s promotion, retirement of workers at 60 years and the implementation of financial policies and arrears.

They are aslo angry over non-payment of peculiar arrears to retirees and alleged selective victimisation of some workers.

The protesters sang solidarity songs.

They carried green leaves and moved round the campus.

Other protesting union leaders were SSANU chairman, Mr. Ayo Falade and that of NAAT, Mr. Samuel Giwa.

is spread mischief and we are not going to play to their game because the state will not continue to play to their script. We are focused. Some genuine people of Ogun State feel that there should be an explanation.”

Olaniyonu drew attention to a publication in The Nigerian Compass, which he described as “injurious” and “malicious.”

The commissioner said Amosun’s lawyer, Mr Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), has written the paper’s editor for a retraction of the alleged libelous materials which alleged that the governor “jets to Saudi Arabia Aboard on N26million chartered flight”.

Olaniyonu added that Amosun is demanding N200, 000,000 as damages for the injury caused to his “person, character and reputation” by the publication.

THE Oyo State Government has set up a committee in each of the 33 local government areas to review the cases of the council workers who were recently sacked.

The Chairman of the Local Government Service Commission, Alhaji Lasisi Ayankojo, told reporters in Ibadan, the state capital, yesterday that the step was to enable the affected workers get a fair hearing.

He said the committee comprises the chairman of the Head of Local Government and a representative of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) in each of the local governments.

Ayankojo said any of the 1,161 sacked workers who felt that his or her appointment was wrongly terminated has up till today to submit necessary documents to prove his or her case.

UI VC to deliver Igbinedion’s 78th birthday lecture THE Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan (UI), Prof Isaac Adewole, will today deliver the distinguished birthday lecture of the founder and Chancellor of Igbinedion University, Okada, Edo State, Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion.

The lecture is for the Benin chief’s 78th birthday.

It is entitled: Nigeria: An entity in search of viable nationhood.

The lecture will hold under the chairmanship of the ProChancellor/Chairman of university’s council, at 11am.

A statement by the Head, Oublic and External Relations Unit in the Office of the ViceChancellor, Mr Jide Ilugbo, said the lecture is an annual programme of the university to honour its Chancellor.

Osundare, others for maiden Ekiti Arts Festival From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

RENOWNED scholars, literary teachers and culture advocates, including Professors Niyi Osundare, Akinwumi Isola, Olu Obafemi and other theatre practitioners are among dignitaries expected at the maiden edition of Ekiti State Festival of Arts and Culture (EKIFEST).

The festival holds between September 9t and 15.

Addressing reporters yesterday in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, Commissioner for Culture, Arts and Tourism, Alhaji Ayodele Jinadu, said the festival would promote the culture of Ekiti people and harness its tourism potential.

He explained that the event would also drive indigenous economic enterprise and generate employment.

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

11

BUSINESS THE NATION

E-mail:- bussiness@thenationonlineng.net

T-bill yields fall, foreign demand lifts naira

Y

IELDS on Nigeria’s treasury bills fell at its bi-monthly auction which was oversubscribed particularly by foreign investors whose strong demand also pushed up the local naira currency, dealers said yesterday.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) according to Reuters news sold N142.97 billion on Wednesday on a total subscription of N430.75 billion, this time selling N30 billion of 364-day notes, which were absent from the last auction, dealers said.

It sold N32.9 billion in 91month bills at 13.64 per cent, N20 billion in 182-day paper at 13.80 per cent and N90 billion in 364-day notes at 13.87 per cent.

Dealers said it auctioned the bills at between 36 and 100 basis points lower than what it had offered at its previous auction last month.

There was strong demand for T-bills from foreign players, which also pushed the naira up to N157.98 at 11.43 GMT yesterday, firmer than Wednesday’s close of N158.20, they said.

The bank at its last auction in August sold N30.65 billion in 91-day paper at 14 per cent, while it auctioned N20 billion in 182-day notes at 15.08 per cent. It did not sell 364-day notes.

The Federal Government issues treasury bills regularly to curb money supply, contain inflation and help lenders manage liquidity.

Prospective investors must be very careful. Several fund managers are only out to dupe unsuspecting members of the public.

They use different tactics to lure unsuspecting investors. Members of the public should contact SEC before parting with their monies.

- Ms Arunma Oteh, DG, SEC

Five new airports, cargo terminals ‘Okonjo-Iweala doesn’t want WTO job’ to cost N106b T T HE Federal Govern ment (FG) plans to build five international airports and six international perishable cargo terminals in five states.

The projects will cost N106 billion.

Aviation Minister Stella Oduah broke the news during a briefing with journalists yesterday in Abuja.

The beneficiary states are Lagos, Abuja, Rivers, Kano and Enugu.

Mrs Oduah said the new terminals are categorised under the second phase of the aviation roadmap implementation strategy.

The project was approved at the last Federal Executive Council meeting. That the construction will be executed by a Chinese firm since the loan for the job was granted by the Chinese NEXIM Bank.

Mrs Oduah said: “As we travel round the world, we see and admire international airports in other countries and wish that our nation could boast of just

From Olugbenga Adanikin, Abuja

one that can truly go by the name international airport.

Today, following the approval of FEC, we have concluded arrangements to commence construction of not just one, but five brand new, world class international airports.

“The company that is doing the execution is a Chinese company. When the Chinese NEXIM or any country NEXIM gives a loan, that country’s contractor will have to do the execution. That is the process we follow.

“They will have to decide on who will do the awarding of the project, so ours is for Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) to check if its in line with our regulation to ensure that the loan is in order. Once BPP gives no objection then we are

free. Secondly, on what it will be spent upon, I want to say they are five international airports and six international perishable cargo terminals and all that is N106 billion all inclusive.”

Describing the initiative as part of moves to ensure a good travelling experience, the Minister stated that construction of the new airports will contribute to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

The airports will be completed within two years with a concessionary loan of 22 years and five years moratorium of an interest rate of 2 per cent.

The minster noted that mobilisation of contractors is expected to begin within 90 days.

Speaking on the first phase of the aviation roadmap, she disclosed that remodelling and reconstruction of 11 airports across the

country has reached 80 per cent completion.

“These include: the Murtala Mohammed International Airport and the General Aviation Terminal (GAT), both in Lagos; Nnamdi Azikwe International airport, Abuja; the Port Harcourt International Airport, Omagwa; the Akanu Ibiam International airport, Enugu and the Malam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano.

Others include the Margaret Ekpo International Airport, Calabar, Yakubu Gowon airport, Jos; the Yola, Kaduna and Sam Mbakwe Airport Owerri,” Oduah explained.

The minster noted that the third phase, which is the Aerotropolis project, will soon begin.

The Aerotropolis are airport cities that provide clusters of businesses ranging from manufacturing, Information and Communication Technology (ICT), hospitality, recreation and retail trading.

Bank gets one week ultimatum • ‘Afribank pension, gratuities not transferred’

DATA STREAM

By Toba Agboola

T

COMMODITY PRICES Oil -$107/barrel Cocoa -$2,686.35/metric ton Coffee - ¢132.70/pound Cotton - ¢95.17pound Gold -$1,800/troy ounce Rubber -¢159.21pound MARKET CAPITALISATIONS NSE JSE NYSE LSE

-N6.503 trillion -Z5.112trillion -$10.84 trillion -£61.67 trillion RATES

Inflation -10.5% Treasury Bills -7.08% Maximum lending -22.42% Prime lending -15.87% Savings rate -2% 91-day NTB -15% Time Deposit -5.49% MPR -12% Foreign Reserve $35.8b FOREX CFA 0.2958 EUR 206.9 £ 242.1 $ 156 ¥ 1.9179 SDR 238 RIYAL 40.472

HE Coordinating min ister for the economy and minister of finance has denied allegations that she wants to be the head of the World Trade Organisation (WTO).

A statement from her office said “recent speculations and enquiries linking the Coordinating Minister for the Economy and Minister of Finance, Dr Ngozi OkonjoIweala to a future role as head of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) is false.”

According to the statement, Dr Okonjo-Iweala is not a candidate for the leadership of the WTO. She has also not expressed any interest whatsoever in the position.

Okonjo-Iweala left her role as managing director of the World Bank last year to become the most high-profile member of President Goodluck Jonathan’s cabinet in an expanded version of a role she held between 2003-2006.

Less than a year into her post she ran to be president of the World Bank in April, losing out to Korean-born American health expert Jim Yong Kim. It was the first time in the Bank’s history that the United States’ hold on the job was challenged.

Okonjo-Iweala’s opponents questioned her commitment to Nigeria after her unsuccessful World Bank bid, so showing interest in this post could have been politically damaging.

• Mrs. Funke Osibodu,Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Union Bank of Nigeria PLC, (centre), flanked on (right) by Alhaji Ibrahim Kwargana, Executive Director, (CB) North; Mr. Soji Ogundeyi, Deputy president of UBASS, and Mrs. Amina Danisi, ex-officio member NLC and Deputy President ASSIBIFI, UBA (left); Mr. Emmanuel Ugboaja, Head of Admin, Nigeria Labour Congress, after their meeting held in Union Bank, Corporate Head Office ... on Tuesday

Bank of Industry grants N73.4b loans

T

HE Bank of Industry (BOI) yesterday dis closed that its loan portfolio rose to N73, 478,307 billion in 2011 from N41, 708,623 billion in 2010, indicating an increase of 76 per cent.

Shareholders’ Committee, chair Mr Mohammed Kyari Dikwa disclosed this at the 52nd Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the BOI in Abuja.

He said that the quantum leap in loans and advances as well as increases in treasury and dividend income contributed to the 45.97 per cent increase in gross income, which rose to N16, 886,482 billion in 2011 from

• Creates 802,210 jobs From Franca Ochigbo, Abuja

N11, 568,450 billion in 2010.

Dikwa noted that the provisions for bad and doubtful debts rose to N2, 986,168 billion from a write-back of N490, 777,000.

“The provisions were based on more stringent and conservative financial reporting requirements contained in the Central Bank of Nigeria’s prudential guidelines, and the flat one per cent provisions on even the performing risks assets of all banks that is now required under the International Financial Reporting Standards.

“These resulted in a drop in the group profit before tax to N1, 087,348 billion in 2011 from N2, 578,390 billion in 2010,” he explained.

Based on the above performance, the shareholders agreed as proposed by the Chairman to pay the sum of N63, 627,100 million as dividend to the shareholders.

Dikwa said the bank in response to the new provisioning requirements has intensified its debt recovery efforts, which would enhance the bank’s profitability in 2012 and beyond.

He noted that similar developmental impact was re-

corded under the CBN N200 billion intervention funds for restructuring commercial bank loans to the manufacturing sector that is being managed by the BOI. Dikwa maintained that consequent upon the full disbursement of the fund to 498 beneficiaries by December 2011, the number of direct jobs created increased by 50.4 percent to 130,143 from 86,513.

In the process, 802,210 indirect jobs were also created.

Commenting on the N300 billion that was set aside for power and aviation ventures, he said that N147 billion had already been disbursed to 17 beneficiaries as at December 2011.

HE Association of Senior Staff of Banks Insurance and Financial Institutions (ASSBIFI) yesterday threatened to shut down the operations of Mainstreet Bank Limited if it fails to pay the entitlement its sacked workers within one week.

Mainstreet Bank is one of the three bridged lenders that absorbed certain assets and liabilities of the defunct Afribank Nigeria Plc. Such asset, however, excludes pension and gratuity liabilities – meaning that Mainstreet Bank is not liable for payments of such.

Speaking at a press conference in Lagos, President of ASSBIFI, Comrade Sunday Salako also called on Nigerians to intervene, saying that the affected workers are in serious financial predicament as most of them are finding it difficult to meet their obligations.

He said the ultimatum, which started from yesterday lapses next week Thursday.

Salako noted that the Tripartite Committee set up by the Minister of Labour and Productivity, Mr. Emeka Wogu has concluded its sittings and submitted the report to the Minister on Monday, 13 August, 2012 requesting the Bank and its principals to look into the payment of the disputed benefits.

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

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BUSINESS NEWS

Minister: Only AIB can reveal cause of Dana crash

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HE Minister of Aviation, Stella Oduah yesterday said that only the Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB) statutorily has the mandate to reveal the cause of June 3rd 2012 Dana airlines crash, which killed all the 153 passengers on board.

The Minister said this during a briefing with journalists in Abuja.

She explained that the airline had passed air-worthy check conducted by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).

The minster noted that the AIB, NCAA and John Obakpolor panel

From: Olugbenga Adanikin, Abuja

set up by the Federal Government also exonerated the operator of being the cause of the crash.

The Federal Government had on Wednesday lifted the suspension on Dana Air’s operating licence, freeing the airline to resume operation on the basis that it has satisfied rigorous technical, operational and financial audit.

Describing the circumstances surrounding the crash as an isolated issue, the minister noted

that it will be wrong to conclude without detailed report from the AIB. This, according to Oduah led to the decision to lift suspension on the airline’s license.

Oduah said: “The AIB as you are aware have released their preliminary report; it was a very good report. There was no conviction that it was Dana’s fault.

NCAA has also done their air worthy check on the airline and they were freed for that and usually, you do not ground in whole term for an accident because as regard some airline, which had

an accident not too long ago such as Air France, Kenya and Ethiopian airlines, the same thing happened.

“Not because of the company service, it was an isolated issue, but before that we had to do airworthy check on the company as a whole including the administrative, technical and the preliminary report exonerated them. NCAA report also exonerated them.

Remember we set up a panel as well, they also exonerated them.

“Therefore we isolated them because there is still ongoing investigation. It is still under AIB

investigation and until that is done, we will not know if it is the engine or the pilot, so we cannot apportion blame now. We are not allowed to.

But as an isolated investigation, as they come, as an airline operator, they have been exonerated, that is why we are exonerating them, that’s why we are allowing them to fly and it was not their licence by the way that was suspended.”

However, the Minister restated commitments to ensure the aviation sector meet international standard for the safety and comfort of air travelers.

‘13% oil derivation should be spent on host communities’

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HE 13 per cent derivation from monthly allocation paid to oil-producing states should be exclusively spent on oilproducing communities, Chairman, Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) Engr. Elias Mbam has stated.

He said this should be case because the oil producing communities being hosts, suffer most from the impact of environmental degradation occasioned by oil exploration in their domain.

A statement from the RMAFC said that Mbam observed that the clarification became necessary in view of the fact that a larger percentage of the 13per cent Derivation Fund meant for the development of host communities is unjustifiably spent in the development of State capitals and other urban centres. This he said negates the principle behind derivation, which serves as reparation to the host communities whose lands and water resources are devastated by oil exploration activities.

From Nduka Chiejina, Asst. Editor

The RMAFC boss made this clarification yesterday when he received a delegation of traditional rulers from Delta state on a courtesy call. He however, lamented that the law establishing States and Local Governments Joint Account is an encumbrance on the successful operations of the 13per cent derivation principle since the Law confers absolute control of the Fund on governors rather than

Local Council Chairmen who govern the host communities.

Mbam was said to have sought for an amendment to the States and Local Governments Joint Account Law to allow Local Government Councils take direct control and administration of all funds meant for them. He added that the ongoing review of the revenue allocation formula will also address some of the grievances of beneficiaries of the federation Account in a just, fair and equitable way.

He opined that since Local Council Chairmen are closer to the grass roots, they can be held accountable by local communities and when the host communities are well developed, the local people would jealously guard oil facilities against vandalisation as they take pride of ownership.

In his remark, the leader of the delegation, Chief Wellington Okirika, the Bolowei of Gbaramatu Kingdom was said to have accused Governors in the oil-producing

states of underutilisation of the 13per cent Derivation Fund. He noted that most development projects are concentrated in the state capitals instead of the host communities, which are supposed to be direct beneficiaries.

Chief Okirika therefore called on the Commission to support the establishment of an independent body to administer the 13per cent Oil Derivation Fund so as to ensure its full utilisation for the maximum benefit of host communities.

Arik Air, Lufthansa Technik seal new deal

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RIK Air and Lufthansa Technik of Germany have sealed a new partnership deal that will maintain the safe operations and support further growth of the Nigerian airline.

Lufthansa Technik is West and Central Africa’s largest carrier and world renowned aircraft maintenance service provider, According to a statement from Arik, during a meeting held at its corporate head office in Lagos last

Tuesday, the two organisations agreed to strengthen their partnership that was first consummated about five years ago.

Under the new partnership, Lufthansa Technik and Lufthansa Cityline will continue to provide technical support to Arik Air in the areas of line maintenance, base maintenance, materials and pool parts among others for the next five years.

Lufthansa Technik will also as-

sist Arik Air in the area of personnel training and the establishment of a Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility in Nigeria.

The statement noted that the leader of the Lufthansa team who is the Sales and Marketing Director, Mr. Clemens Schrettl said he was impressed with the outcome of the meeting describing the deliberations as fruitful.

“Lufthansa is happy with the partnership we have had with Arik in the last five

years and this is why we are here today to renew that cooperation and seek further areas of cooperation with the airline. We are looking at taking this partnership to the next level,” Mr. Schrettl stated.

In his response, Arik Air Executive Vice President/Managing Director, Mr. Chris Ndulue, who led the airline’s team to the meeting, thanked Lufthansa for their technical support over the years and looked forward to exploring new areas of cooperation and strengthening of existing relationship.

CAMPAIGN

POLICY

ORIENTATION

NGO advocates character reorientation

Orji targets N2b revenue

‘Raise your children well’

Lagos

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Abia

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

Ogun

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Email: news_extra@yahoo.com

•Governor Kayode Fayemi (middle) with Dr. Adesina in a handshake with a baker, Mrs Yetunde Kofie at the event EKITI State government has taken steps to accelerate development through a cassava initiative.

Under the scheme, farmers will get more funding to grow the crop and save the country billions of naira spent on importation of wheat.

The great thing about the plan is not just that wheat is giving way to cassava in the production of bread, but the growers themselves will make more money, giving their businesses and families a huge lift.

The state governor, Kayode Fayemi, said it will also help create more jobs and accelerate industrial growth, in addition to enhancing economic security, amongst other dividends.

Government officials,

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Ekiti stimulates growth with cassava From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

representatives of Master Bakers Association and members of the public thronged the sprawling Adetiloye Hall, Government House Complex, Ado-Ekiti, where cassava bread was introduced to the public.

There was a scramble for the loaves.

Fayemi launched the initiative, accompanied by Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Ganiyu Owolabi, and Mrs. Foluso Olaniyan, MD/CEO, UTC Nigeria.

Others in attendance included

Fayemi targets 20,000 jobs President, Master Bakers Association in the State, Mr. Bosun Osaloni and Chief Executive Officer/Managing Director of BJC Bakery, Ado-Ekiti, Chief (Mrs.) Yetunde Kofie.

Top government functionaries including the State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Mr. Rem Bodunrin and other members of the state executive council, local government chairmen and various officials of the State Master Bakers association were equally at the occasion.

Governor Fayemi promised

Farmers to get more funding

adequate funding for cassava growers in the state, adding that the bread would comprise 45 per cent cassava flour and 55 per cent wheat which he said is more nutritionally safe than whole wheat bread.

He noted that the target of creating 20,000 jobs before the end of year 2014 is attainable with several agricultural initiatives going on in the state.

He added: “As we launch this Initiative today, Ekiti State has become the first state in the federation to tap into the many

economic and nutritional advantages of cassava bread after the recent launch by the Federal Government.”

The governor commended President Goodluck Jonathan for supporting agriculture in the state with the construction of 100,000 capacity metric tons silos in Ado Ekiti, the state capital, which he said was about to be completed.

He noted that the timing of the initiative would further assist the state in achieving the goal of •Continued on Page 49

Ogun steps up healthcare with ambulance services

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GUN State government has boosted its healthcare programme with the launch of its rebranded ambulance services, becoming the first in the country to join the United Nation’s Decade of Action on Road Safety to reduce deaths on the highways.

To enhance the ambulance service, the Ibikunle Amosun administration also introduced an emergency toll-free number

By Seun Oyelade

122, which can be accessed by anyone anywhere in the state during emergencies through any mobile network.

Across the world, public telephone networks have a single emergency line, usually known as the universal emergency telephone number or occasionally the emergency service number that allows callers to access local

emergency services for medical or other forms of assistance.

Many reckon that the emergency services will boost the people’s health.

Several organisations are also partnering with the state to manage the rapid response scheme in emergency cases and ensure effectiveness of the scheme.

Those organisations include the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Nigerian Red Cross and Nigerian

Aid Group.

Governor Amosun spoke on the preparedness of the state for this service.

He said: “We have sponsored all our emergency personnel for training on First Responder Skills, Basic Life Support and Advanced Cardiac Life Support Certification from the American Heart Association”.

•Continued on Page 50

•Governor Amosun

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Govt to complete Enugu-Onitsha Expressway soon T

• Vice Amirah, Zumratul Islamiyyah Women Association, Lagos State Council, Alhaja Wasilat O. Lawal (third from right)donating eqiupment and materials to Massey Children Hospital, Lagos Island

HE Federal Government has promised to complete the ongoing Enugu-Onitsha Expressway project before the end of the administration.

The Minister of State for Works, Amb Bashiru Yuguda, who gave the assurance while inspecting the road project at Onitsha, said the government had released funds for the completion of the road.

“The Federal Government is determined to fast track the rehabilitation of the Enugu-Onitsha dual carriageway before the end of this present administration.

“President Goodluck Jonathan is determined to complete the project.”

Conducting the minister round the project, the Zonal Director, South East of the Federal highways, Mr Uzo Chukwunwike, informed him about the

Ijaw, Ilaje communities caution Chevron

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WO Delta communities of Ijaw and llaje beneficiaries of Chevron Nigeria Limited, Offshore Memorandum of Understanding, MoU, have cautioned the oil giant against alleged moves to disengage the services of Nigerian Catering & Supermarket Services Limited (NC & SL) without regard to its negative impact on her host communities.

In a statement by the two communities, Thomas Eraye, Timi Ricgard, Tayo Oluwole, Oluremi Oluleye and six others said they were not prepared to compromise their rights of

Delta From Polycarp Orosevwotu, Warri

participation under the Offshore agreement reached by the three ethnic groups of Ijaw, Ilaje and Itsekiri.

The communities maintained that as stakeholders they are entitled to be notified for a meeting before any changes are made regarding the alleged change, supposedly sponsored by “some faceless groups in connivance with staff of the Chevron”.

Ministry locks out workers for lateness

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OME members of staff of the Ministry of Lands, Survey and Housing, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, were early this week locked out and queried for reporting to work late.

The Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Mrs Ann Agom-Eze, said that the measure was in line with the attitudinal change policy of the state governor, Mr Martin Elechi.

“Workers in the state need to grapple with the new policy of work ethics in order to stay disciplined and improve their productivity and efficiency.”

Agom-Eze stated that the positive changes being witnessed in her ministry were as a result of the attitudinal change policy of the state government which they had imbibed.

“Today, the turn out before our prayer meeting was very low; So, I directed all heads of departments to issue query to all the affected

officers no matter their grade level.”

Meanwhile, the ministry has assured land owners in Ebonyi of speedy processing of their land titles and instruments following the launch of automated system in land administration.

According to Agom- eze, a lot has changed in the ministry as the issuance of C-of-O and all other registerable instruments are being done quite on time, unlike before.

“If you think it is not moving as it should, you should not hesitate to call on the office of the permanent secretary who will be able to explain exactly the position of your document.

“You should not drop your document and run away. If you do this, there is nothing we can do if you do not find your own.”

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The statement, signed by the DirectorGeneral of ECCIMA, Mr Emeka Okereke, noted that key stakeholders in the public and private sectors as well as international agencies would attend the event, being organised in collaboration with the Raw Materials Research and Development Council.

It listed some of the resource persons as the Ministers of Agriculture and Rural development, Science and Technology and Water Resources.

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ECRETARY to Edo State government, Dr. Simon Imuekheme has said that the activities of the Rotary Club are in conformity with the policy thrust of the Governor Adams Oshiomhole-led administration, which is primarily to address the basic needs of the people.

He made the remarks at Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area shortly after he was honoured with an Award of Excellence by the Rotary Club of Auchi Metropolitan District 9140-Nigeria.

Dr. Imuekheme emphasised that the humanitarian posture of the Rotary Club and its membership spread across over 200 countries of the world, informed his decision to join the club in 1988.

While appreciating the Rotary Club of Auchi Metropolitan for considering him for the award,

Edo From, Osemwengie Ben Ogbemudia, Benin

Dr. Imuekheme pledged the continued support of Edo State government to the activities of Rotary Club in view of the fact that its major focus is community development and service to humanity.

Earlier in a citation, Dr. Simon Imuekheme was described as a rare personality whose track record of excellence in public life is most outstanding.

These achievements informed the unanimous decision by the Rotary Club of Auchi to present him with an excellence award in recognition of his dynamic leadership, administrative acumen in governance, absolute loyalty to serve and contribution to humanity -.

The event was the formal installation of Rotarian Helen Uhunmwagho as the seventh president of the Rotary Club of Auchi Metropolitan.

Other personalities honoured include, former Chief Judge of Edo State, retired Justice Constance Momoh and the state Commissioner for Environment and Public Utilities, Prince Clem Agba.

Abia targets N2b IGR

HE Abia State government has set a monthly Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) target of between N1 billion and N2 billion in its quest to increase its revenue base, Governor Theodore Orji has announced in Umuahia.

Orji disclosed this while speaking with newsmen on the efforts by his administration to boost the state’s revenue base. ‘’The state is bound to produce a minimum IGR of between N1 billion to N2 billion monthly.’’

He said that realising the target would entail reorganising the state’s Board of Internal Revenue.

Governor Orji said that already, the government had advertised the position of the chairman of the board in order to get a capable candidate for the job.

He said: ‘’They can be changed at any time;

Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), the CLEEN Foundation International,has decried the rising crime wave and abject poverty in the Southeast, blaming the woes on leadership failure.

The group made the disclosure during a two-day seminar with the theme: Right Based Approach to Development held at Assumpta Pastoral Centre, Owerri, the Imo State capital.

In his address, the head of the foundation in Owerri, Mr. Ifeanyi Anyanwu, maintained that development of the society by government should not be seen as charity but as the right of the people, noting that, “a situation where the government fails to provide basic amenities for the people, where it fails to create employment, the only option left is for the people to resort to self help, which often times lead them to crime”.

According to him, the near collapse of the industrial sector in the zone, occasioned by bad governance, has resulted in high level unemployment with its attendant challenges, noting that if government provides an enabling environment through right policies hinged on accountability, the temptation to take to crime by the youths will be drastically reduced

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Abia no tenure is permanent; even as a governor, we will go away by 2015. ‘’The emphasis is on how to shore up the IGR, because that is what is going to sustain us, make us survive and make us accomplish our projects. ‘’This is why the people who are in charge and galvanising the forces that will generate this revenue must be up and doing.’’

He warned that he would not condone any laxity or any attempt to frustrate government’s efforts.

“What we are trying to do is to rejuvenate and re-engineer the system to work very well and give Abia the desired result.’’

The governor, who was away to the U.S. for his annual vacation, said that he held discussions with prospective investors, adding that the result would soon manifest.

•Governor Orji

NGO decries insecurity in Southeast From Okodili Ndidi, Owerri

The foundation also blamed ignorance on the part of the people for the poor economic and social state of the zone, saying that, “this training therefore is aimed at broadening our knowledge of right-based approach for adoption as a tool in promoting good governance in the Southeast and Nigeria at large”.

In his presentation, the Chairman of Association of Indigenous Imo Town Unions, Chief Emeka Diwe, disclosed that the collective in-

put of the people through various organised communities in the development of the zone, far outweighs that of the government especially at the rural level, which forms more than 80 per cent of the Igbo population and land mass.

He said that the developmental consciousness among the Igbos has tremendously helped in laying a solid foundation for the government to actualise its development objective but lamented that government has failed to take advantage of the situation.

Church empowers 92 youths

C •Proprietress of Hasab Heritage (second right), dignitaries an d pupils cutting the school's second graduation prize giving anniversary

Engineers to collaborate with FIIRO on cassava

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HE Nigeria Society of Engineers has thrown its weight behind the Federal Institute of Industrial Research Oshodi (FIIRO) on the full implementation of cassava flour for bread in the country. The association’s chairman, Mr Babagana Muhammad gave the indication during a visit to the institute in Oshodi.

He promised that the society would within its capacity ensure that the aim of making flours with cassava comes to fruition.

The Director and Head of Project Development in FIIRO, Dr. Patrick Irabor, said cassava can produce many things when it is processed.

“Cassava is a wonder tuber but many Nigerians have not realised it and we don’t have mechanised farms so there is no one to produce cassava except you go to villages. But FIIRO has made it so easy for

By Damilola Bamidele

Nigerians, because they do business in the cassava area,” he said.

Irabor stressed that cassava can be used to make garri flour and fufu, all local foods.

A food technologist of the institute, Mr Patrick Ugokwe, listed the processes involved in garri making from cassava. He said the first process is the cassava peeling, washing, weighing, milling, grating, pressing and drying.

Also speaking on the occasion was the Deputy Director, Mr. Dele Oyeku, who said the institute is mandated to promote industrial growth in the country.

For this purpose, Oyeku said over 150 tools have been developed in the laboratories in FIIRO. One of the FIIRO engineers, Mr Wahaab Ashiru, said cassava business requires huge capital, but that the Ministry of Agriculture is ready to support anybody interested in the business.

Bookshop rewards customers

A •Former Chief of General Staff,Lt-Gen Oladipo Diya(left) presenting an award to Master Damola Adekogbe for excelling in a Bible quiz competition at the 5th Annual Convention of the United African Methodist Evangelical Church,Abule Ijesha , Yaba, Lagos

•Governor Chime

Edo to partner Rotary on basic needs

Ebonyi

ECCIMA holds agric exhibition RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan is expected to declare open the third National Agricultural Exhibition and Symposium billed for Enugu on September 27 and 28 respectively , a statement has said.

The statement, issued by the Enugu Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (ECCIMA), organisers of the event, said that no fewer than 250 stakeholders, including 10 research institutes, were expected to showcase their products at the event.

“Despite our letters insisting on the continued stay of NC & SL, your PGPA is still hell bent on breaching the MoU which negates our rights as host communities.

We, however, wish to stress that the limit to which we can persevere in the face of this present injustice and denial is a matter of guess”.

The letter addressed to the General Manager, Policy, Government and Public Affairs, PGPA, warned that all efforts must be made to straighten the ugly situation and redress the present wrong”, the statement added.

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Enugu

deteriorating state of the expressway.

Chukwunwike said that erosion was the major threat to the road, especially along the Onyeama mine and Borromew part of Onitsha.

The contractors handling the Enugu and Anambra axes of the road, Messrs Yacoub Youssef of the Consolidated Construction Company (CCC) and Niger Construction, Mr Chami Ali, promised to complete the road project in line with the specification.

The inspection took the minister to the Bridge Head at Onitsha in Anambra State and Onyeama axis and Ekulu Bridge on Enugu side.

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BOOKSHOP, Friendship Investment Enterprises Ltd, has started rewarding its customers for their patronage in the last 28 years.

The company’s chief executive officer, Mr Chijoke Iroetugo, said the programme which will run from September 1 to September 30, is one of its packages to mark the organisation’s 30th anniversary celebration.

He said a special package will be given to students for bulk purchases within the period. Going down memory lane, Iroetugo who also runs sporting equipment outfit, disclosed that it has not been always rosy

for him in business.

The Okposi Ohaozara indigene, in Ebonyi State South-East Nigeria, said friendship investment faced a lot of challenges but due to consistency, hardwork, dedication and loyalty to customer’s need, it was able to surmount its challenges.

He noted that today, the organisation which started with one person in 1982 now have 30 people in its employ.

•Iroetugo

HURCHES have been urged to complement the efforts of government in tackling poverty by empowering the teeming unemployed youths with needed skills to transform their lives.

Pastor Charles Obasa of The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Lagos Province 12, made this known at the graduation ceremony of the first batch candidates of an Entrepreneurship Development training sponsored by the church and facilitated by the joint effort of Africa Leadership Academy and Central Bank of Nigeria.

The graduates were 92 in number and were drawn from various parts of Lagos with training on business development, project management, value reorientation, job creation mechanism, networking among others.

According to him, the challenge of insecurity in Nigeria can be effectively tackled with skill acquisition programmes that are geared toward empowering the hand and brain of the teeming youths to work and earn a decent living.

He said that the ongoing killings, maiming and wanton destruction of lives and properties are partly due to lack of functional education which would have prepared today’s youths to be job creators rather than job seekers in a depressed economy.

Obasa said that it is worrisome that the educational system churn out thousands of graduates without hope of getting a decent job for living and they are left out to commit all forms of criminal activities to survive.

He asserted that the church must not lose sight of its responsibility of giving hope to these youths by exposing them to training programmes that would position them for the emerging job opportunities in Nigeria.

Obasa, a former management consultant, noted the training was carried out by the corporate social responsibility department of the church which is aimed at giving back to the society.

By Adeola Ogunlade

Although, he noted that the church is not a business organisation that give loan but he said “ the Redeemed Christian church of God will facilitate access to loans for members who have gone through this training from the right quarters”.

He added that the church will continue to drive this vision until we are sure that majority of our people are gainfully employed and affecting their generation positively.

In a remark, one of the recipients of the training, Damola Damilola said “we are happy that the church has positioned us to get information for wealth transfer. We promise to give back to the church and influence our community, family and the nation at large.”

• From left:Mrs Remmy Akpotowho;Rev Olumide Aluko and wife,Kike at the inauguration of the King’s Delight Hotel ,Ashi, Ibadan

‘Solar energy is the best choice’

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OLAR energy has been described as the most durable solution to the energy crisis in the country.

Speaking in an interview with journalists in Lagos recently, the Chief Marketing Officer

•Management and staff of the Sifax Group during a send- forth party at Rockview Hotel, Apapa for the Group Managing Director of the Company, Captain Luc Deruyer, (third left) who returned to Belgium last week

of Stormberg Power Nigeria Limited,Mr Adetola Adebanjo, noted that with the myriad of problems bedeviling supply of power in Nigeria, it has become expedient for government at all levels to consider investing in the solar option.

According to Adebanjo, unlike other sources of power which are variously confronted with issues like diminishing supplies of fossil fuels, price volatility in the oil market and the possible hazardous effects on the climate, “the main source of solar energy is the sun which is a giant, inexhaustible eco-friendly power plant.”

He explained that on the average, the sun supplies the earth with around 220,000 trillion kilowatt hours of energy yearly, which amounts to 3,000 times the worldwide demand for cheap fuel opportunity, one not subject to the uncertainties of the energy market while significantly reducing and potentially eliminating many of the costs innate in conventional power generation systems in use today.”

While advising governments, corporate bodies and individuals in the country to embrace the Sola option, which he believes is getting increasingly popular the world over, Adebanjo listed the gains inherent in the use of solar energy to include its infinite nature, environmental sustainability, ease of adaptability as well as low cost of maintenance.

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AGRO-BUSINESS

Lagos moves to safeguard food supplies T

HE Lagos State government said it is implementing a food plan to safeguard future food supplies, jobs, food processing and development.

The Commissioner for Agriculture and Cooperatives, Prince Gbolahan Lawal, said this has become necessary as the United States experienced its worst drought in half a century, resulting in crop destruction, which has raised fear of yet another rise in global food prices.

Speaking in Lagos, Lawal said the situation has raised larger questions of how to tackle food supply shocks. It also underlines the clear need for food price stability to be moved up the food security agenda.

Stories by Daniel Essiet, Agric Correspondent

Lawal said domestic production of key staples must continue to be raised to ensure the country is never at the mercy of food imports. He said the nation should realise complete grain self-sufficiency by raising domestic production, stressing that imports should not be relied upon given tightening supply on the international market.

He said Nigeria could be spared the worst effects of what is happening on international markets if there is an aggressive national effort on food production.

According to him, the United

States of America is currently facing its worst drought in 100 years. He said that the nation needs an aggressive and improved production of cassava to leverage the diversified use of cassava flour.

To this end, Lawal said the government is expanding the role of cassava from being just a staple food for human consumption to an efficient industrial crop.

To support the Federal Government, the commissioner said Lagos will provide incentives that would encourage farmers increase cultivation and production of cassava.

One of these ways is to connect cassava farmers to buyers and producers to improve their in-

come and provide a reliable source of raw materials to industries. He said food industry needs consistent quality supply to sustain production.

He said farmers will be trained on better cassava farming husbandry and facilitated to access a ready market. In collaboration with the Federal Government through the Growth Enhancement Support (GES), Lawal said farmers will be given new cassava varieties that are higher yielding.

He added that the new varieties have the capacities of increasing yields to 40 metric tonnes per hectare. He said the state government was working towards improving supply chain

management, post harvest management and prolonged storage.

On the participants of courses II and III of the 100 Agricultural Youth-Based Empowerment Scheme, the commissioner said the government is working to provide financial support to enable them to start their businesses.

He said the state government is yet to raise the N1billion required to settle the beneficiaries.

Lawal said the concept of AgricYes was to create jobs, provide food security and eradicate poverty in the state, adding that the empowerment fund was to assist participants in starting their own farms according to their area of agricultural specialisation.

Cross River to generate 900 jobs from oil palm

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HE Cross River government said it would generate 900 jobs for youths in oil palm plantations in Biase and Akamkpa Local Government Areas of the state.

The Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Mr James Aniyom said this while addressing a public forum on the impact assessment of Ibiae Biase palm plantation in BiaseLocal Government Area.

He said the state government had mandated a Malaysian palm oil mill company, Wilmar Nigeria Limited to manage Ibiae and Calaro Palm Estates in Biase and Akamkpa local government areas.“When the oil palm plantation becomes fully operational, it will generate 900 job opportunities for youths in the area,’’ he said.

He said the state government was collaborating with Ibara Environs consultant Nig. Ltd. to assess the environmental impact of the operations.

Aniyom, who was represented by Mr Efoli Esuku, the State Crop Manager, said the government would establish more oil palm plantations in the state.

He said the 19,000 hectares had been earmarked for the development of the oil palm plantation in the area to engender job creation and reduce youth restiveness in the area.“The youths will find out a more enviable means of livelihood since they are going to be engaged in the production process by the company, ’’ he said.

General Manager of Wilmar Nigeria Limited, Mr Lee Kok Seng assured the host communities that machines that would be imported for the production would comply with Nigerian laws.He said that apart from job creation, the project would aid the transfer of technology and income generation to the area.Seng said that the company would raise a nursery to improve plant varieties.

Managing Director, Ibara Environs Consultant Nig. Limited , Chief William Unoh, urged the people to support the company in its operations.

He urged the company to adhere to the terms of agreement with the people.

Desertification: Katsina plants 3.5m tree seedlings

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HE Katsina State government will plant 3.5 million tree seedlings this year as part of efforts to check desertification in the state, an official has said.

The State Commissioner for Environment, Alhaji Aminu Ibrahim, made the disclosure in Katsina.

He said the government had selected some people in each of the 34 local government areas (LGAs) of the state to plant and nurse the tree seedlings up to maturity stage.

“A motorcycle will be given to the best person in each of the seven forestry zones of the state in order to boost their morale,’’ the commissioner said.

He said a one kilometre shelterbelt comprising economic trees in all the LGAs would be established under the

project.

Ibrahim said further that the programme was expected to generate about 240 jobs for people of the state.

He said the measure was part of the administration’s commitment towards curbing desertification which has become one of the major problems affecting the environment in the state.

The commissioner warned people of the state to avoid indiscriminate felling of trees.

He said it was the major cause of desert encroachment and soil erosion, which have also led to flooding.

On environmental sanitation, Ibrahim urged the public to always keep their surroundings clean.

“Government has taken steps to improve environmental sanitation in the state,’’ he said

•From left: Technical Adviser to the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs. Toyin Adetunji, Commissioner for Agriculture and Cooperatives, Prince Gbolahan Lawal and Director, Finance and Administration, Mrs. Azizat Adeyemi at the flag-off ceremony of the Cassava Growth Enhancement Support in Lagos.

‘Cocoa prices expected to remain stable’

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O significant hike is expected on cocoa bean prices due to increased production , the Chief Operating Officer, Centre for Cocoa Development Initiatives, Mr Robo Adhuze has said.

Speaking with The Nation, Adhuze said the projected supply of cocoa beans to the food industry has remained stable even as the International Cocoa Organisation (ICCO) raised its estimates of world production to 3.99 million tonnes. This he said was because grindings stayed stable, reducing the projected supply deficit by 28,000 tonnes to 43,000 tonnes.

According to him, cocoa prices were stable and there is no cause for buyers to stock beans.

With abundant seasonal rains raising farmers’ expectations for the harvest, the analyst said there are no concerns of supply shortfalls in the run up to the new season.

He said the industry is poised to get enough supply of cocoa beans. The challenge for local producers, he explained, however, is being able to meet the requirements of foreign buyers who see produces from West

Emir wants mode of fertiliser sharing reviewed

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HE Emir of Bauchi, Alhaji Rilwanu Adamu, has advised the Federal Government to revise the e-Wallet fertiliser distribution system to enable peasant farmers have access to the commodity.

Adamu gave the advice in Bauchi when he paid a visit to Governor Isa Yuguda. He said the system was faulty and needed review to enable farmers to benefit from the commodity. Adamu said he had received numerous complaints from farmers

over the problem of accessing the commodity, especially farmers in the rural areas.

He, therefore, called on the government to adopt an alternative method for the distribution of the commodity. The emir urged the state government to intensify security measures in the state as safety of lives and property is necessary for socio-economic development of any nation.

Responding, Yuguda thanked the emir and other traditional rulers in

the emirate for offering prayers that had led to peaceful co-existence of the people.

Yuguda directed immediate rehabilitation of Bauchi Eid ground that was submerged by flood on Sunday forcing worshippers to pray at Bauchi Central Mosque.

He promised that the state government would tackle the issue of hoodlums, popularly called “Sara Suka”, which has bedevilled the state.

Africa as of poor quality. Several deliveries were rejected as the beans were small and had low chocolate content. The merchants are not pleased with the size of the beans. They dropped their buying prices and farmers have no choice but to sell.

The Technical Advisor, Sustainable Cocoa Business, German International Co-operation (GIZ), Mr Ayo Akinola said providing cocoa farmers with training is critical to establishing a sustainable supply chain.

He said his organisation’s training programs run through a network of farmer field schools where farmers are given the opportunity to learn about improved agricultural and pruning techniques, regeneration measures, preventative disease control and post-harvest treatment, as well as other aspects of the business.

He said the training has resulted in higher yields and better quality beans, in turn resulting in an average increase in farmer incomes.

The Country Programme Manager, Solidaridad, Mr Alex Akinbo stressed the need for certified cocoa if Nigerian farmers are going to make money in the international market place.

According to him, the certification programme is dedicated to fostering an open and transparent marketplace for cocoa.

He said his organisation is working to get more cocoa certified to bring farmers higher premiums supply.

Akimbo said certification enables farmers to increase yields, improve quality and adopt more sustainable practices can directly contribute to increased earnings.

He explained that it was a ‘win-

win’ situation as farmers’ incomes increase there after ,sufficient to make cocoa farming worthwhile, which ensures the cocoa supply for the future.

According to him, the environment is challenging for cocoa farmers and consequently influences the future supply of cocoa beans. There are global fears that rapidly increasing chocolate consumption in developing countries, along with instability in coco agrowing areas are leading to a chocolate supply crisis.

According to Prof David Guest, from the University of Sydney’s Faculty of Agriculture and Environment, the current threats to cocoa production include ageing plantations, poorly trained farmers and poorly managed trees, dependence on a narrow genetic base and crop substitution where cocoa is replaced by maize because of the demand for bioethanol.

“Cocoa is grown in areas vulnerable to climate change, political instability, pests and diseases.”

The crisis in the supply of chocolate is exacerbated by the fact that global chocolate consumption is rising by two to three percent annually, according to Guest.

“Chocolate consumption trends are different around the globe. In Australia, Europe and North America total consumption – around 6kg of chocolate per capita per year – is stable. However, the trend is to dark chocolates or to niche marketed gourmet chocolates. Consumption dropped slightly during the global financial crisis in 2008 and 2009,” said Professor Guest.

“In China, India, Eastern Europe and Brazil, however, per capita consumption rates are increasing rapidly, albeit from a relatively low base.

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THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

AGRO-BUSINESS

Imo: Next agro How to address farming investors’ destination challenges, by expert T A N expert, Dr Daniel Gwary has called for more high yield farming researches aimed at rapidly tripling the food productivity to meet the growing population.

Speaking with The Nation, Gwary, who is an associate professor in the Department of Crop Protection, University of Maidugari, said to feed a growing population, the farmers have no option but to intensify crop production.

He said the key will be to triple food yields from the current crop and pasture lands and to do this; the farming sector will have to invest in intensive cultivation.

Given current and future challenges to food supply, he said intensive agricultural production is emerging as a major priority. This means, producing more from the same area of land.

Stories by Daniel Essiet, Agric Correspondent

He said efficient crop production practice will help farmers achieve sustainable growth, maintain permanent soil cover and reduce crop vulnerability to hazards. According to him, the wide practice of conservation agriculture will avert food crisis and climate change risks.

Gwary said there was an urgent need for critical assessment of ecological and socio-economic conditions best suited for farming across the country.

The expert said crop production should build on farming systems that offer a range of productivity, socio-economic and environmental benefits to producers and the society. This,he explained, is based on an ecosystem approach that sustains the health of farmland already in use

and can regenerate land left in poor condition.

He urged the various research institutions in the country to develop a system to assess the potential of existing ecosystems and how they can affect food production and possible trade-offs between them.

According to him, food security revolves around land availability, access,utilisation and stability, touching on the resource base and ecosystem services that prop up the whole food system.

Calling for food production and consumption practices that ensure productivity without undermining ecosystem services,Gwary said the nation needs a green revolution where the farmers understand how food is actually grown and produced in terms of the nature-basedinputs provided by forests, freshwaters and biodiversity.

•Policy Analyst, The Tony Elumelu Foundation, Deji Balogun; Chief Executive Officer, The Tony Elumelu Foundation, Dr Wiebe Boer and Leadership Development Associate/Programme Manager, Efe Odeleye during a press briefing in Lagos.

Delta to partner Israel on agric

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ELTA State Governor, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan said the state would partner with Israel to develop the agriculture sector as part of its “Delta Beyond Oil” project.

The governor announced this when Mrs Josephine Zinder, the President of Talor Made Tours (TMT) Limited, an Israeli hospitality and travel business outfit in charge of hosting Nigerian Pilgrims in the Holy Land, visited him in Asaba.

Uduaghan said that besides sponsoring pilgrims to Israel to pray for the state, the government would also begin to send its citizens to the holy land for business and agriculture training.

He expressed the state government’s appreciation to TMT for making the pilgrims’ stay in the holy land

memorable and for strengthening the relationship between the organisation and the state.

“We, as government, have taken it as our responsibility to sponsor Christians to Israel to pray for the state but this visit to Israel should not just be for religious affairs alone.

“So probably our next visit will not only centre on spiritual exercise but to exploit the potential in agriculture to help us build our agenda of ‘Delta Beyond Oil.” He gave assurance that assured that the state government would continue to sponsor pilgrims to the holy land and urged TMT’s continued support.

Earlier, Zinder, who was accompanied by her husband, Mr Eran Zinder and other associates, thanked the state government for the continued

patronage.

She said that TMT had been in the tour business for over 21 years.

She said that since her last visit to Nigeria in 2007, the country had proved to be a friend to Israel, adding that the relationship had remained cordial.

She commended the state government for the sustained annual sponsorship of pilgrims to Israel and encouraged the government not to relent, “because it is only prayers that make the difference in the life of a people”.

She urged the state government to tap into other opportunities in Israel.

“Use TMT to do more things between Israel and Delta, especially in the areas of special projects in agriculture,’’ she said.

Expert canvasses standards for food products

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HE Federal Government has been urged to ensure that consumers are purchasing safe and standard food products.

Speaking in Lagos,the Managing Director,Origin Group,Mr Samuel Joseph Samuel said despite some gains in food production growth, the food producing companies continue to offer substandard foods products to Nigerians.

In implementing standardisation programmes, he said consumers need to ensure that their suppliers are also committed to producing food in the safest manner possible, which should include mandatory government inspection of facilities to verify

that food standards are being followed.

Samson said his company is acquiring technologies to address qualitative improvement and enable import substitution. He said Nigerians will see a number of agro projects which opens business prospects for the industry.

Samson said the challenge is competition among unwieldy players who compromise on quality, which is marring the reputation of the food sector. According to him, the government needs to take a number of measures to free farmers from ’unnecessary burdens’ to help their businesses become more efficient and so

provide a boost to the economy. He said: “Cutting red tape is a must to boost business in the farming sector.”

He said the sector is unnecessarily burdened by bureaucracy which is holding back growth, adding that freeing farmers will help drive the economic recovery, which is being led by the growth in the agricultural sector.

With rising demand for food, he said farmers and their skills are in huge demand, which brings business opportunities. Samson said the government should take actions that will make it easier for farmers to get on with their jobs and make the most of those opportunities.

HE Imo State economy depends primarily on agriculture and commerce and the chief occupation of the people is farming. Agriculture comprised of plant crops, afforestation and gardening, raising livestock, and livestock products. The state’s cash crops include oil palm, raffia palm, rice, groundnut, melon, cotton, cocoa, rubber, maize among others.

Food crops such as yam, cassava, cocoyam and maize are also produced in large quantities. The location of Imo State within the tropical rainforest gives it the ecological basis for production of a wide range of tropical agricultural crops with extensive potentialities for industrial usage. The geographic and cultural diversity of the state combines with economies of scale create aunique environment where investors can access an unparalleled range of products, produced with quality and food safety, all for an economical price.

Diversification and growth in types of plant crops and livestock breeding has increased over time.

Methods of cultivation have also improved, and the government continues to develop more efficient forms of irrigation, and mechanical equipment for processing and harvesting crops. At the heart of the agricultural sector is the ability to wisely balance financial incentives, government regulation and freemarket forces to improve the agricultural sector and make it more sustainable. In addition, the unique climate of the state has necessitated close collaboration between government institutions, scientists, farmers, and localised agricultural concerns in order to maximise the growth and sustainability of agricultural output in an area with limited natural resources.

As a strategy for enhancing agricultural development, private investors are invited to participate in direct agricultural production, by investing in the planting and cultivation of agricultural crops such as maize, rice, legumes, roots and tubers. Viable projects that investors can invest on in Imo State include, match splint and tooth pick manufacture, tissue paper production, etc.

Investors can venture into the planting and cultivation of cashew, oil palm, oranges, citrus trees, etc.

Imo State is conducive to livestock production, especially rearing of goats and sheep. Modern poultry farming has been introduced in the state and is practised by a large number of people. Investors will find this sector attractive. The mecha nized Imo Modern Poultry Farm atAvutu, in Obowo LGA, has taken the lead in private fish farming, a sector much neglected by investors in Imo State. Also, the State is dotted with several fishponds owned by Government and the privatesector for fish farming. Fish products is a major source of animal protein in the diet of people of the state. Two basic methods are employed in the production of fish in the state; fish farming or fish culture andcapture fisheries. Capture fisheries (artisanal) accounts for about 75 per cent of total fish production in the statewhile the remaining 25 per cent goes to fish farming.

A variety of equipment designed for tilling, sowing, planting, harvesting, collecting, sorting and packing are implemented. Agriculture has also benefited from a broad range of general scientific research and research and development developments, including biological

By Daniel Essiet

insecticides, disease-resistant strains and biological fertilization.

A combination of sophisticated, applied science, determination and government support have helped farmers to modernize and adapt to changing geopolitical, market and climatic conditions, creating a strong base from which to proceed in the coming decades.

The challenge now is that farmers have learned to develop high value-added and innovative farm products that enable them to compete in markets with lower-cost producers.

The state’s agriculture is characterised by controlled mechanization and high quality seeds and plants.

The Ministry of Agriculture is a key driver of plans supporting sustainable development and and positioning agriculture.The Ministry is also dedicated to upgrading existing branches of agriculture, such as dairy andpoultry farms to make to them more sustainable and less polluting. Despite the fact that the state strengthened its efforts to address sustainable development processes, the risk of soil degradation is persistent there is a continuous need to promote soil conservation programmes.

Food manufacturers now include fruits and nuts in their annual offerings of products. The major factors militating against increased agricultural production in some areas include near, high initial cost of land development, poor technology for production,processing and preservation, high cost of farm labour, poor soil fertility, deficiencies in supplyand delivery of farm inputs .

To address these, the government is working with the private sector to improve tractorisation and land development, mechanisation of all aspects of agriculture, improved soil management practices, improved pest management practices, introduction of improved technologies and delivery to farmers through extension services, provision of micro credit to farmers, provision of basic infrastructure in farm settlement and rural areas and community based organisations (CBOS.) The government continues to seek out agricultural trade groups that could benefit from its unique position. The government is ready to translate its vision of a virile agricultural sector into concrete realities. The main thrust of its policy on agriculture is to create a private sector driven agro economy that is self-sustaining and that has the capability of addressing the twin problems of food scarcity and poverty.

•Gov Okorocha

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

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COMMENTARY Comments

EDITORIAL FROM OTHER LAND

Paralympic patriots •The heroics of Paralympic Team Nigeria has restored national pride from the woeful performance at the London Olympics

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HE abject, medal-less show by Team Nigeria to the London Olympics was shattering. But the performance of the same Team Nigeria at the ongoing London Paralympic Games borders on the heroic. Thanks to these heroes and heroines who have shown so much sterling ability in disability (as distinct from the other that showed abject disability in ability), Nigerians can walk tall again in the comity of Olympians.

As at Day 6 at the London Games, Nigeria had won five gold, five silver and one bronze medals, taking the team’s total medal haul to 11. Team Nigeria sits 12th on the overall table, but on the power-lifting medals table, where the team mined most of its medals, it sits on top as numero uno. In power-lifting, Team Nigeria athletes have so far broken four Paralympic and four world records in the current games. But the thrill is, it appears morning yet on medals-digging day!

Yakubu Adesokan, the Ibadan-born athlete and celebrated power-lifter set the ball rolling by lifting 180kg in the men’s 48kg category, breaking not only the Paralympic record, but also breaking the world record twice, first by lifting 178kg before settling for the winning weight of 180kg, a weight almost four times his body weight. That set up the winning tonic for this fantastic Nigerian contingent.

Although Pierre de Coubertin, founder of the modern Olympiad, said the true spirit behind the games was participating without necessarily winning, after fierce but honest and friendly sporting

competition, a win or loss at the Olympic Games has often showcased the strength or weakness of a country’s domestic polity and economy. So, economically strong and politically stable and prosperous states tend to do better at the Olympics than the laggards.

The summer London Olympics definitely showed Nigeria as one of the sporting laggards, as the country could not even muster a single medal, of any colour or hue. But the Paralympic story has been decidedly different, a load of thanks to these heroic men and women who, even with their physical challenges, have clearly shown that disability can only be of the mind (as demonstrated by the team to the Olympics) and not of the body (as demonstrated by the Paralympic team).

But these two contrasts themselves are a powerful metaphor of the country – what is, and what can be. Nigeria, like the failed Olympians at the London Games, has everything in natural endowment. But like a spoilt brat, it has made little or nothing of its God-given talents.

On the other hand, the Paralympics have demonstrated, with their soul-lifting performance so far, that not even the greatest of physical impediments can deter a mind focused and determined enough to soar.

There is another lesson in patriotism.

Everyone complains about how better Nigeria could be; and how it is a disincentive to be of service to the country. Indeed, many former Nigerian national athletes have competed in other countries’

colours, simply because of the debilitating environment and the shambolic sporting administration that has grounded Nigerian sports. But the brave Paralympics are showing an alternative paradigm: even with warts all, a patriotic Nigerian can still do his or her best for the country. Bless you, heroic ambassadors, for that moral.

That however should be a doubleedged appeal. These patriotic Paralympics should spur renewed determination to do the best for motherland. But it should also spur the government to do the needful to earn this patriotism.

‘The summer London Olympics definitely showed Nigeria as one of the sporting laggards, as the country could not even muster a single medal, of any colour or hue. But the Paralympic story has been decidedly different, a load of thanks to these heroic men and women who, even with their physical challenges, have clearly shown that disability can only be of the mind (as demonstrated by the team to the Olympics) and not of the body (as demonstrated by the Paralympic team)’

Fatal attraction •A million auto crashes happen yearly in Britain because drivers can’t take their eyes off beautiful women

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HIS must be a fresh twist in the motor accidents tale, as a British study has revealed that nearly one million crashes happen every year because of drivers’ attitude of ogling pedestrians while behind the wheels. Now the dictionary defines ‘ogling’ as the act of continually staring at a person in a way that indicates strong sexual interest. According to the study which polled 2,142 drivers, 60 per cent of men admitted being distracted by attractive women while 12 per cent of women said they lost concentration while leering at good-looking men.

The report revealed that distracted motorists cause an average of 2,525 crashes per day in Britain which adds up to about 921,840 in a year. And this is not a recent phenomenon as studies since 2008 to date have remained consistent with drivers across Britain admitting they crashed their vehicles because they were distracted by (staring at) a member of the opposite sex. Though fatality figures

‘Whereas accidents in Nigeria are often ascribed to reckless driving, drunkenness, poor road infrastructure and mechanical failures, there may just be more germane causes than these, like ogling and leering as the study from Britain has revealed. And in fact, there may well be human causes peculiar to us but which only methodical studies will reveal’

were not shown, drivers smash their cars into the vehicle in front of them or into lampposts more in the summer when men and women wear less clothing, the study shows.

This study may seem like a flippant exertion, but the result is quite revealing; not to mention the number of accidents occasioned by what we may coyly refer to here in Nigeria as ‘human factor’. If we have about a million people crashing their vehicles in Britain because they are attracted (distracted) by the opposite sex as they drive, we are likely to have as many in Nigeria, if not more. This is because human psychological conditions are basically the same; the differences would be that they have better road facilities, they are more methodical in studying the phenomenon and they would be less inhibited in discussing the matter.

Studies like this show to what extent the world has advanced in seeking the exact causes of road crashes in order to prevent them. Whereas accidents in Nigeria are often ascribed to reckless driving, drunkenness, poor road infrastructure and mechanical failures, there may just be more germane causes than these, like ogling and leering as the study from Britain has revealed. And in fact, there may well be human causes peculiar to us but which only methodical studies will reveal.

We review this peculiar study in the light of the alarming spate of accidents occurring daily on our roads across the country. Hardly any day passes since the beginning of this year without fatal accidents happening on our roads. We are well aware that our road infrastructure

is in derelict state, but we do not even seem to be able to determine the chief cause of the fatalities on our highways.

Driving culture here is largely still very primitive, with most drivers unenlightened and ill-educated. Most drive with an aggressive if not manic state of mind which objective seems to be a determination to get in front of the car in front.

But of particular concern are the road managers. At the state and local council levels is a rag-tag of people known as traffic controllers. Most of them may not have been behind any wheel before not to talk of being grounded in traffic management. The Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) is a more enlightened corps but which needs to drastically revamp its operations and reinvent itself. The commission as currently constituted has certainly fallen behind the needs of the time. It must redefine its roles so as to become more scientific in accident prevention, by way of massive enlightenment programmes, quality data capturing and analyses.

Awareness initiatives ought to be a daily multimedia affair and not by any means seasonal; there must be ample use of visual devices of real accident situations to drive home the message.

Highway presence and operations need be intensified to prevent excessive speeding and occurrence of accidents.

Above all, studies, not unlike the one cited above, must be done annually to determine with a little more exactitude, how some socio-economic factors like poverty, for instance, may lead to road crashes.

What to do about China’s arms sales to Africa

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CONSEQUENCE OF China’s rise as a global economic superpower has been the nation’s quest for resources, influence and riches in Africa, extracting minerals and food, building highways and schools, and selling cheap cellphones and pharmaceuticals. In July, President Hu Jintao pledged that China would lend $20 billion to African governments for agriculture and infrastructure.

The underside of this complex relationship is the arms trade. As The Post’s Colum Lynch reported Aug. 26, China has been flooding sub-Saharan Africa with assault rifles and ammunition, some of which have wound up in conflict zones in violation of U.N. sanctions.

China isn’t alone in this murky business — Russia and Ukraine are competing — but China does stand apart for challenging U.N. authority and seeking to curtail investigations that might shed light on its arms deals. China, subject to sanctions by the European Union after the Tiananmen massacre of 1989, has a philosophical aversion to sanctions, although it has gone along with many of those imposed by the United Nations, which currently enforces arms embargoes against 13 countries or groups.

Chinese weapons continue to leak through the net. For example, the United Nations imposed sanctions on Sudan in 2004 after the brutal, forced relocation of millions of civilians from Darfur by armed militias. In 2011, Mr. Lynch reported, U.N. inspectors found Chinese-manufactured high- explosive incendiary cartridges in Darfur after Sudanese forces had battled rebels there. China refused to cooperate with an effort to identify the origin of the cartridges. Such an investigation might shed light on China’s undisciplined arms trade, which is driven by relentless mercenary interests and a desire to cozy up to oil-soaked and mineral-rich African leaders.

The trail of these weapons is often difficult to discern. Sanctions are busted in the middle of the night, weapons are diverted from state factories to illicit traders and sub-national militias. In the interests of cleaning up the nastier side of this business, the United Nations in July held a conference to negotiate the text of an arms trade treaty. Such a compact might bring more transparency and accountability to arms transfers, but in the end, no agreement was reached. The United States, the world’s largest arms exporter, has broadly supported the idea of a treaty.

China took a position at the conference that any arms trade treaty must not interfere with the sovereign right of nations to make their own decisions on arms transfers. By this logic, there’s no need to wait for a treaty. China’s leaders ought to realize that with global power comes global responsibility. They can act on their own to be more careful about where China’s weapons are sold and where they wind up.

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

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THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

20

CARTOON & LETTERS

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IR: The result of this year’s May/June Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) should not have surprised anyone.

Out of the 1,672,224 candidates that sat for the examination this year, 649,156 candidates representing 38.81per cent obtained credits in five subjects and above including English Language and Mathematics.

Results with tears will occur in a place where the parents, students and the society alike do not care a hoot on how academic success came about but concentrate more on the ‘success’ itself. They always quote the adage, “the end justifies the means”. Yes, the end has not only killed our education but also is killing our society. Academic success in our country now is not viewed in the number of work put in, but seen from the paper a child presents.

The parents are far too busy with wealth accumulation or trying to survive in a harsh economic environment. They forgo salient aspect of their duty in the child’s life like helping out in homework, teaching the child the rudiments of education and teaching the child the importance of hard work. The lack of moral upbringing that is evident in our generation is contributing too.

Abraham Lincoln was not a fool when he pleaded with his son’s teacher to “teach him that a dollar earned is far more valuable than five pounds not earned.” Morality is what he was advocating.

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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

Why the educational sector is endangered Motivation is non-existent in our educational sector. Motivation is very important to learning and behaviour. Motivation is anything that affects behaviour in pursuing a certain outcome. Sadly, there is no motivation in our education system.

Scholarship is one veritable means of motivating students to work hard. In Nigeria, such gestures are dead and we exhumed ‘whoknow-who’ mentality, both in grading, scholarship and employment.

Scholarships and educational aids like free books and good laboratory equipment are necessary but they are neglected in our country.

The oil companies give pseudo scholarships, schools and churches do not deem that necessary; federal, state and local governments have since forgotten about it. Our order of priority or scale of preference is highly faulty.

In other countries, scholarships are used to hone for talents and breed them to be loyal to the cause of the school and country. Result with tears starts here, and must be

combated from all fronts.

Furthermore, the learning environment is way too poor for a creative sector like education. Take out some good private schools and unity schools (Federal Government colleges); you will see that students sit on the floor for classes in a leaking roof without good blackboard.

How can a child that is handicapped in every way be successful?

The dearth of teaching personnel in most schools is even a bigger issue. I never had mathematics and Physics teacher throughout my secondary school (1997-2003). Yet in 2003, I was expected to write mathematics examination!

Most secondary schools in the rural areas do not have teaching personnel; so it is not surprising that their results are poor and why there is higher propensity for examination mal-practice. I was lucky to have sound Youth Corps members that taught me privately before my exams. How many people are that lucky?

Teachers’ remuneration is another issue. The teachers are so

poorly paid that they look for other things to do in order to supplement.

Go to a school, and ask the top 15 students what career choice they would like to pursue after school and you will understand the danger facing education: You will hear medicine, law, journalism, accountancy, petrochemical and petroleum engineering, mechanical engineering, among others. Teaching will rarely be mentioned.

Reading materials are of immense contribution to teaching and learning. Our textbooks should always be critically examined before it is recommended. What we see are watery texts that are not helpful. Most of the books are not explanatory; they smack of carelessness, and lack detailed analysis.

If education is the bedrock of the society as we always eulogize, a serious task is then in our hands. Let us all put hands together to pull out our beloved country from this avoidable doom.

Uwalaka Temple Daejeon, South Korea.

Plea bargain and alleged subsidy thieves

IR: It was former governor of Edo State, Lucky Igbinedion who in recent times, popularised plea bargaining when he used it to return a fraction of what he took from the state while serving as its chief executive. It enabled him to evade criminal prosecution and possible punishment.

Since then, more looters have taken the safe-landing offered by this restitution process to avoid legal trials and its attendant shame.

Suddenly, looting and stealing in high places have become interesting, attractive and profitable. It can hardly be argued that this legal process of refunding through the backdoor, what one stole from the state has become a safe route to all manner of fraudsters in Nigeria.

It may be trite to assert that plea bargaining did not originate from Nigeria, but it is pertinent to observe that with the apparent reckless manner it is being granted to looters,

someone, somewhere is unconsciously and unconscionably legalising stealing, fraud and other forms of malfeasance.

Elsewhere, notwithstanding any partial regurgitation or restitution, despicable betrayal of trust is promptly met with the exposure, pain and punishments it richly deserves.

As feelers from the presidency suggest, coupled with the administration’s perceived disinclination to hurt some powerful forces, the Federal Government appears thrilled with the reported secret refunds by some indicted marketers in the subsidy probe.

The reluctant to hold them and other looters accountable for their misdeeds is difficult to understand.

How such aversion will ensure probity and good governance is harder to comprehend.

It is necessary to inform President Jonathan that his refrain of being

willing and capable of stepping on powerful toes in a bid to curb our land of corruption is beginning to sound like a cracked disc. We want action.

EFCC is yet to regain the momentum and applause of the Ribadu days and this is the feeling of most Nigerians including our friends in America and London. We want to see what they are doing to fight corruption and fraudulent persons. We don’t want stories; we don’t want excuses or doubtful tales of secret achievements.

I am, like most Nigerian, yet to understand the defined role and mode of operation of the ICPC. Little wonder some are calling for their mergence or outright scrapping.

Any undeserved soft-landing to these people that ought to populate our prisons is tantamount to giving flesh to the insinuation that the presidency breeds and promotes corruption. It will hurt the common man

that was made to suffer the removal of a phantom subsidy that he never truly enjoyed.

If Barth Nnaji, who arguably is one of the very few performing ministers in Dr. Jonathan’s administration could be yanked off his ministerial seat just for conflict of interest, the same government has no business shielding subsidy thieves from prosecution and criminal exposure.

That is why we don’t share the government’s excitement that indicted marketers are reportedly refunding, through the backdoor, the subsidy they pocketed illegally.

Our refusal to be overly impressed is informed by the less-than- transparent manner previous refunds, particularly Abacha’s, were handled.

Our enthusiasm is in seeing that they are duly and promptly prosecuted and, if found guilty, punished. Nothing less will excite us.

• Pat Anozie Owerri

NUC scribe got it wrong!

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IR: As the saying goes, “one man’s food, another man’s poison”. Still, it would not be an excuse for the likes of Professor Julius Okojie, Executive Secretary of the National University Commission (NUC), to paint black the efforts by the governments of Kano and Osun states to students abroad for further education as reported in The Nation September 4.

The professor of forestry and resources management, specifically made references to the recent awards of scholarships by the Kano State government to 501 students to study in various foreign countries, as well as similar efforts by Osun State government.

Okojie who sounded rather odd said that the lucky students would export cultism. For his information, Kano has a zero record in terms of cultism and other negative characters. Despite this, the students were screened to ensure they serve as good ambassadors of our dear state.

The Professor unknowingly confused his readers when he said that the Ukrainian universities lack basic sciences. He should know that Ukrainian universities top the list of best 700 world universities!

He also claimed that in five years all our doctors would be from Ukraine.

Okojie failed to acknowledge that, people of his class always go abroad for medical trips. By sponsoring our sons/daughters it will save well-to-do people time and resources used in seeking medical care in foreign shores.

It is an undisputed fact that our education sector is in “coma”. The decision taken by the two states seems more like an intervention plan as majority of the lucky students will be become university lecturers when they return. That would give the coming generation the opportunity not to be branded as “half-baked”.

Though not standing brief for the universities, I am privileged to know that students admitted in the country especially those from third world’s countries have to pass through what they refers to as “foundation” before they properly admitted.

In less than one and half years, the Kano State governor, Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso has established more than 20 institutions which includes North West University, Nursing schools, Sport institutions, just to mention a few. This is in addition to training of primary schools teachers, and providing the enabling environment for learning. To regain the lost glory in educational sector, in terms of manpower, the state governor decided to send the hundreds of students as the first phase of the programme.

While congratulating the lucky students for this opportunity, they should copy from Professor Okojie and become professors within 18 years after graduation.

• Auwal A. Dankano, Kano.

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012 16

21

COMMENTS

Reality Bites T

Beasts of no gender (5)

Olatunji Ololade

O be a feminist, if not a defect, is at least a fetish; like porn. The feminist is that woman who dulls down to an artificially created set of sexual-political sensibilities in order to satisfy her emotional lust for being perpetually ‘oppressed.’

Like porn addicts, paedophiles, rapists and racists, such woman is an emotion junkie– infinitely handicapped yet propelled by her lust for unearned benefits. And when she seems truly deserving of sought benefits, gluttony and wile pervert her claims until her agitation attains the tenor of a ruckus, much like the ghastly cries of feral cats jostling for the largest chunk of carrion flesh.

To do American feminists justice, many of them have publicly repudiated the ideas they once held: Betty Friedan now talks of the importance of the family. Judy Goldsmith (former president of NOW) deplores the feminization of poverty due to easy divorce laws, and Susan Brownmiller, author of Against Our Will: Men, Women and Rape, laments the effects of sexual liberation and the feminist adoption of the lesbian cause: “We tried to make people proud of who they were” says Brownmiller, “...but then the sadomasochists came out of the closet and became proud of themselves.”

Unfortunately, Nigerian feminists, always five leap years behind the American sisterhood, have not seen the light yet and attempt to pervert State and Federal policies even as they lay to waste, the traditional family. Feminists, without doubt, should not enjoy the natural ‘privilege’ of having children. They are taking care

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of that anyway – as you read; the “Free the Nigerian Woman” movement is working assiduously to achieve total liberation from patriarchal fetters for the Nigerian woman and girl-child.

However, like their foreign feminist heroes, the feminism they propagate presupposes and necessitates male blame. It espouses man-hating as an intrinsic part of its modus operandi thus institutionalizing misandry as a central tenet of its crusade. Although, many a Nigerian feminist will contend that “the feminism we espouse does not require man-hating, we simply choose to liberate the Nigerian woman from servitude and patriarchal dominion…”; reality tells differently. Feminism cannot exist without man-hating and that is the cold-hard truth.

Blaming socialization for women’s predicament constitutes the worst of feminist claptrap.

The socialization-learned rolessex-stereotyping feminist argument to excuse feminists’claim to perpetual victimhood has no basis in fact.

If social forces and upbringing have such a profound effect and influence on women’s choices then they must also have a profound effect and influence on men’s choices – if considered within the feminist parameters that both male and female gender are created as equals. This means that nobody, anywhere, under any circumstances, is capable of making a ‘free choice.’

The concept is arrant nonsense; if it had any validity then none of us could be held morally or personally responsible for the consequences of our actions. Picture a society that op-

ILITANCY, kidnapping, touting, looting, rampaging, pipeline bombings, crude oil theft was the order of the day amongst most youths in Delta State. Those were the days when the oil workers especially the expatriates in the oil rich state were seen as meal tickets. Demands for ransoms were rife. There was disruption of oil exploration as there was no peace nor security for the oil workers. The indigenes felt aggrieved and marginalized. As far as they were concerned the government and oil companies were taking from their land without doing anything in return for them. They were upset over pollution and the region’s endemic poverty. Youths were dropping out from schools and going into the creeks to take up arms to wage an insurgency against Nigeria’s oil industry.

That was the state of affairs in the oil rich state when Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan came in, in 2007. The country’s oil production pummeled to as low as 500,000 barrels on some days against the usual 2 million barrels per day.

But today the story is different. Immediately the administration came in, it launched a three point agenda; Peace and Security, Infrastructural development and Human capital development. These three agenda are interwoven in that the success of one depends on the success of the other. The reason for insecurity in the first place was partly because of marginalization in terms of low infrastructure and poor human capital.

The government understood in time that the wealth of any nation depends on the quality of the people. Thus the administration of Uduaghan decided to display enormous commitment in giving a new face to Human Capital Development. With a Litany of packages ranging from micro-credit programmes, free maternal and rural healthcare programmes, student scholarships, payment of WAEC fees, Youth Empowerment through Agriculture and Farmers Support programme (YETAFSP), Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) Vocational Skills and Youth Centres, among others the Governor has simply defined the true face of Delta as far as human capital development is concerned.

Apart from the oil industry, agriculture has

erates by this belief system: thousands of men locked up in prisons could use the same defense for shooting, robbing, raping, drug dealing and so on. Why not argue for example, that the culture of masculinity, a background of poverty, and a materialistic and religiously intolerant family makes them behave in anti-social ways? Individual men are held responsible for their decisions and actions, so how can feminists legitimately claim that women should be exempt from personal responsibility?

Misandry and demonization of men, has devalued men’s worth to the extent that it has made society blasé about the disposability of men and the boy-child. This is responsible, for example, for the shocking bias in the lack of attention to men and boys’ health in general while the mass media and health advocacy groups perpetually obsess about women’s health and the girl-child’s.

The idiocy of this mindset is that while girls are badgered with crucial health information even before puberty, boys, with whom they engage in random acts of sexual violence and experimentation are virtually ignored.

The cultural and institutional misandry perpetuated by the feminist aggravates the destruction of the family system and denies the boy-child the comfort of an external role model especially when he has to seek outside his family for his role models.

This is one reason boys are perpetually in trouble; due to the lack of positive male role models in their lives, they would get what they could from TV, violent films and video games.

All they need is someone whose exemplary footsteps they could follow but the society provides them only men they could dumb down to.

A recent analysis of 2, 000 mass media portrayals of men and male identities, found that men were depicted mostly as villains, aggressors,

perverts, and philanderers. From this stock-pile of anti-heroes, the boychild is expected to navigate for a good male identity. Promoting the image of men as juvenile, mean and stupid is cynical and exploitative; which makes the tide of inverse sexism that has swamped out television screens for instance, even more appalling.

In modern Nigeria, boys and young men have a dire lack of good role models; especially if they are raised in a single-parent home, as one in eight children now are. The situation is worsened by the lack of positive role models in government, and the perpetuation of overwhelmingly negative images of men by the media and feminist scholarly research.

Ultimately such portrayals lead to negative social costs for society in areas such as male health, rising suicide rates and family disintegration.

Women need to be thought of as ‘victims.’ Without the banner of victimhood to rally around, feminist coffers would run dry, career feminists would be unemployed and mortgages would go unpaid. Hence thousands of professional feminists can’t just declare victory and go home, because without the feminist movement they would have no homes to go to; they would have no jobs, no families and no job prospects. And neither would they have a platform from which to pound their ideological drum.

The irony of feminism’s ‘forever feminism’ is that the sense of perpetual victimhood precludes the concept that the members of the victimized group, women, could actually rise above their assigned position in society and meet that society, and be part of that society, on equal terms.

To do that would mean taking personal responsibility for their choices and the condition of their own lives.

Instead, feminism has designed an ideological crutch to serve as the average woman impediment to self-ac-

tualization.

Feminism has gained a monopoly on the subject of gender studies. Men don’t have a gender identity anymore, only women have a gender identity and an intrinsic value to society and this sentiment is perpetuated by carefully articulated propaganda cum research. The concept of authoritative, strong, independent, passionate and intelligent manhood is persistently repudiated except it exists to serve the feminist cause. So when a young boy reaches the age where it’s appropriate for him to be initiated in manhood, we find the whole idea of “reaching manhood” laughable.

On the flipside, a new womanhood is fast evolving. Stripped of its swathe of fortune and status symbols, it reveals a kind of corpse in future argument with itself, a dead voice hollering and bearing witness to its own achievement, passionate in selflove and incest with its past.

•To be continued…

‘In modern Nigeria, boys and young men have a dire lack of good role models; especially if they are raised in a single-parent home, as one in eight children now are.

The situation is worsened by the lack of positive role models in government, and the perpetuation of overwhelmingly negative images of men by the media and feminist scholarly research. Ultimately such portrayals lead to negative social costs for society in areas such as male health, rising suicide rates and family disintegration’ SMS only 08038551123 (tunji_ololade@yahoo.co.uk)

Uduaghan engages youths

By John Okogu the largest employment as 60 percent Deltans are engaged in agriculture. Towards this end, the state government is expanding the agriculture value chain to ensure that it moves to processing level and manufacturing.

One of Dr Uduaghan’s programmes to empower the populace the ‘Micro Credit Programmes’ identifies and grooms business starters which includes farmers and entrepreneurs by giving them financial support. This programme is packaged to be a viable strategy for poverty alleviation. The key element of this strategy for poverty alleviation is to facilitate access of the economically weak and disadvantaged segments of the population to productive sets and service through a sustainable credit facility. The programme is basically targeted towards the rural populace and the urban working poor, unemployed people particularly school leavers, economically disadvantaged persons especially women and physically challenged persons Who face discrimination.

After grooming their business, it is taken over by the state’s Small and Medium Scale (SMS) enterprise, giving financial supports, managerial skills training,organissed into industrial clusters and cooperative and eventually grows to form the industrial base of the state So far, through the Micro-Credit Programme, 37,545 rural dwellers across the state have been empowered. Beneficiaries include 2,706 individuals in the cottage industry sector. 25,039 in trading, 6,942 in Agriculture and 2,858 in the service industry.

The Delta State Micro-Credit is currently disbursed through 28 micro finance banks based in the state. The loan is interest free and the outreach of the programme is the entire state.

Another initiative of the present administration towards human capital development is the Youth Empowerment through Agriculture and Farmers Support Programme (YETAFSP).

Under the first phase of this programme,

450 youths from across the 25 local government areas were at Songhai, Delta, Amukpe for four weeks where they received intensive training on various agricultural programmes. At the end of the training programme, start up capital was given to the beneficiaries to begin their individual lives. The state commissioner for Economic Planning Mr Kenneth Opara had said earlier that the state government was diversifying its economy from oil sector to competitive manufacturing sector in order to overcome poverty and inspire sustainable growth development in the state.

Forming the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) was another giant stride the Uduaghan administration took towards developing and equipping Deltans. The commission is funded with 50 percent of the derivation fund that comes to the state every month. This is given to the commission to develop the oil producing communities.

Every month they get an average of two billion naira for their activities. With that kind of money they are able to touch the lives of more people in the oil producing communities.

As part of its human capacity development agenda all newly born and infants up to age five are given free medical treatment by the state government. Moreover 19,974, Deltans from 94 communities across the state have received free surgical treatment under the free Rural Health Scheme of the State Government.

Students are not left out as 412 Delta students have benefitted from the state government scholarship worth N74 million while bursary schemes have been set up in secondary schools and institutions of higher learning in the state.

Since the inauguration of the present administration it has set up 10 major industries in addition to the already existing ones in the state. The industries have helped in mitigating unemployment in the state thereby reducing the number of youths available for recruitment for evil activities.

Delta State government, aware of the need to take a realistic approach to meeting the challenges in the education sector went beyond making a significant investment in the state’s education infrastructure, it also invested in improving the skills and knowledge of its teacher.

In collaboration with Direct Impact, a development consultancy firm that provides creative solution-driven advisory managed

by Mrs Orode Imevbore, approved a three phase human capacity building programme for Delta State secondary school teachers as a part of its four years Teacher Development Programme targeted at teachers at all levels.

Consequently, the eight days Master Training Programme (MTP), first phase of the three phase programme was flagged off in Warri in September, 2011 with 250 teachers from various secondary schools in attendance.

The focus of the programme is to improve the quality of teaching in public schools in the state. The training provides the teachers with certification in modern day pedagogical techniques that cut across curriculum, which exposes the teachers to modern methods of delivery in their core subjects. After the completion of the MTP, the best of its participants will be selected to train other teachers in the 2nd phase of the programme which is a statewide capacity building programme for 1,500 secondary school teachers. The capacity building programme also extends to school Principals, Chief Inspectors of education and Directors in the Ministry of Education.

It is not worthy to mention here that during the days in anarchy that oil production in Delta State kept dwindling but as peace and security returns to the creeks and the youths being positively engaged and productive, the Uduaghan Administration is not only building Deltans up but helping in no small measure to increase the country’s earnings. With a maximum crude oil production capacity of 2.6 million barrels per day, Nigeria ranks as Africa’s largest producer of oil and the sixth largest oil producing in the world.

• Okogu writes from Ughelli.

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

22

COMMENTS ‘A State in the grip of neo-colonialism is not master of its own destiny. It is this factor which makes neo-colonialism such a serious threat to world peace.’

————Kwame Nkrumah (1909-1972)

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HE polity has been over heated by the decision of the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) governor, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi to introduce the N5, 000 currency notes in to the Nigerian economy. To Sanusi Lamido’s twirl perspective, he believes that his decision would provide the nation with what he calls a “befitting currency structure.” In retrospect, this Kano prince will not be the first CBN governor to take Nigerians on a jolly ride with regards to official attempt to further devalue the nation’s currency. Professor Charles Soludo, the predecessor of Sanusi Lamido in office, had toyed with the devastating idea of redecimalising the naira. But for the intervention of late President Umaru YarÁdua, the policy would have been a fait accompli today.

At a time that Nigerians are heaving a sigh of respite entered Lamido’s N5000 currency note agenda that is not only antithetical to his much touted newly introduced cashless policy, but also going to cost the nation billions of naira in Lamido’s desperate bid to devalue the naira and worsen the economic plight of Nigerians.

If the people thought that they can stop the policy through mustering of public opinion against it, the recalcitrant posture of the CBN and the odious endorsement given the initiative by the Economic Management Team of President Goodluck Jonathan is a big blow.

Members of the team are mostly agents of neocolonial powers or money thirsty capitalists that are not bothered about the negative implication of any policy on the populace- so far such would serve their elitist avaricious interest.

Of course, the CBN has made us realise that having secured the approval of the president, the rest of us that are complaining can go to hell. Even the Senate that sometime call for the status quo ante to remain has not been forthcoming in view of latest development as regards whether or not the CBN should go ahead with the policy. It is becoming quite clear that those directing the affairs of the country are either bereft of a good sense of history or have just decided to twist the facts from the rear. Otherwise, why should we allow one overzealous prince from Kano state turn our currency notes into mere worthless piece of

I

T has happened many times before and it will happen again and again unless Igbo leaders wise up and understand that Nigeria’s geo-polity is a game of chess which has only one objective: capture the ‘throne’. Until then, Ndigbo will continue to be the cherry tree that bears the child (udala) whose lips must always be cracked for the pleasure of others. Or as another Igbo wisdom goes, if you model yourself after oke the rat, puusu the cat will always trample you. That is what our proud oriental fathers taught us but we seem not to have learnt anything.

The ignominious booting out of Prof. Barth Nnaji from his seat as Nigeria’s power minister illustrates the wise words above. The post civil war Igbo seems to have assumed permanently, the posture of the dispensable inconsequential rat; he seems to be perpetually lugging a baggage of guilt on his conscience for waging what everyone knows was a war of survival.

Perhaps he still suffers the psychological hangups of the vanquished and defeated who cannot convince himself that the war was truly over 40 years ago.

Ndigbo, as represented by their leaders have not come to terms with the resolution of the Biafran conundrum; they still wear the badge of defeat. This explains why they present themselves as oke for every puusu in town. Yes, there is an argument for stooping to conquer but it is not the same as being perpetually in a stooped position. The manifestations are noticeable in every aspect of life but let’s pick out the big examples. In the mid-80s when General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida was Head of State, he had to kick Navy Commodore Ebitu Ukiwe out of office so ignominiously and so prematurely that the scar of that action is still imprinted not only in the heart of the victim but in that of every discerning Igbo man and woman who witnessed that blatant victimization of the Igbo personality and persona.

What was the crux of the matter that Ukiwe’s career had to be cut shut one broad daylight by a terse announcement when he was just 46 years old? Ukiwe was a member of the Armed Forces Ruling Council (AFRC), he was the Chief of General Staff (CGS) which made him the second in command in a military set up and indeed he had served as acting president when Babangida was away on a medical treatment in France for three months. He was a high flyer having been military governor of Niger State and military administrator of Lagos State. He had also

Agents of neo-colonialism and historically perfidy-1

•Lamido Sanusi paper through doomed experimentation?

To have a clear grasp of the intent of protagonists of this initiative, it is better to dwell into the history of creation of the once power currency of Nigeria. Ab initio, the West African Currency Board (WACB) was responsible for issuing currency notes in Nigeria from 1912 to 1959. Prior to the establishment of the West African Currency Board, Nigeria had used various forms of money including cowries and manilas.

However, on July 1, 1959, the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) first assignment upon establishment was to issue the pioneer Nigerian currency notes and coins that replaced the WACB ones. Thence, on July 1, 1962, the legal

tender standing of the currency was changed to reflect the country’s new independence status.

Nevertheless in 1968, the currency notes were changed as a war strategy following their misuse during the civil war.

On March 31, 1971, General Yakubu Gowon, then Head of State announced the decimalisation of the currency commencing from January 1, 1973 consequent upon the recommendations of the Decimal Currency Committee set up in 1962 which submitted its report in 1964. That marked the genesis of the Naira and kobo being spent today. And that led to the end of pound sterling (a colonial bequeath) as the country’s major currency. But on February 11, 1977, a new banknote denomination of the value of 20 Naira was issued. At the time, it was the highest denomination necessitated by the growth of incomes in the country; the preference for cash transactions and the need for convenience. That banknote became the first currency note to bear the portrait of a Nigerian citizen-General Murtala Ramat Muhammed (1938-1976).

On July 2, 1979, new currency notes of three denominations, namely, (N1), (N5), and (N10) were introduced. The notes bore the portraits of three eminent Nigerians, who were declared national heroes on the 1st of October, 1978. In 1991, both the 50k and N1 notes were coined…also too in response to expansion in economic activities and to facilitate an efficient payments system, the N100, N200, N500, N1000 were introduced in December 1999, November

EXPRESSO STEVE OSUJI

SMS O8181624757, email:steve_osuji@yahoo.com

Nnaji’s sack and scape-goating of Ndigbo commanded all the major naval bases in the land including as Flag Officer, Western Naval Command.

So was he cut down because he was a star of Ndigbo? Well, just like the Nnaji affair, nobody gave Nigerians any coherent explanations so we were left with conjectures up till today. There were two speculations: one was on the matter of Nigeria joining the Organisation of Islamic Conference (OIC), a matter that has continued to trouble this polity till today. Babangida had unilaterally signed Nigeria on to the membership of OIC without as much as discussing it with his number two. Ukiwe was thus ambushed by reporters at an event and they popped the question at him: is it true that Nigeria is now a member of the OIC? Ukiwe had (innocently?) answered that he was not aware since the AFRC never discussed it. For this, it was suggested that the ‘owners’ of Nigeria marked him for destruction thereafter. The other matter was that General Sani Abacha could not live down the fact that Ukiwe, an Igboman and a naval officer was ahead of him in order of state protocol. Since we are in a country where government does not owe the people explanation, we may never know what transpired in the Ukiwe affair. But the point being stressed here is that he was so humiliated because he is an Igboman.

Another example that will move any true Igbo son or daughter to tears was the case of Professor Fabian Osuji (no relation of yours truly)who was cut down in a most unfair and unjust manner by former President Olusegun Obasanjo for no

other reason than the fact that he is an Igboman.

What was the matter? Sometime in 2005 when Osuji was Minister of Education, Obasanjo had woken the populace up one morning with a national anthem which preceded a presidential national broadcast. Why would the president be addressing the nation when there was no national calamity or emergency? That was the question on the lips of Nigerians until they heard that Prof. Osuji, Minister of Education had just been sacked by the president. What was his offence? Well, the ministry under his watch had tried to bribe the Senate Committee on appropriation with the sum of N55 million to facilitate ‘work’ on his ministry’s budget lest the entire fiscal proposal is denuded and mired by the lawmakers. Everyone was doing it, the professor proffered, or so he was led to believe.

But he would not be spared, he had to be hammered and bludgeoned just because he is Igbo; not because he stole but because of a miserly sum which he mopped up from his departments and agencies. There had to be a presidential broadcast, Prof had to be made a scape goat, the face of Obasanjo’s anti-corruption fight. Meanwhile, at about this material time, an Obasanjo cousin (name withheld) had looted the Ministry of Defence where he was permanent secretary, to the tune of about half a billion. He was facing prosecution and a possible conviction before Obasanjo’s attorney –general entered a nolle prosequi to spring him. That ended the matter. Now professor Osuji is first class scholar, first class gentleman and first class Igbo man. University and FG scholar; best

2000, April 2001 and October, 2005 respectively.

Surprisingly too on February 28th 2007, the N50, N20, N10, and N5 banknotes as well as N1 and 50K coins were reissued with new designs, while a new N2 coin was introduced. From empirical experience, coins as part of the nation’s currency merely exist only on paper and not in the market place of industry or enterprise. The least paper denomination usually takes the place of coins in the economic bargaining place. What Lamido Sanusi is callously saying now is that N50 currency paper denomination will from next year be the least unofficially acceptable amount in the market place.

With the benefit of hindsight, he ought to know that his currency reforms will definitely bring about hyper-inflation and privation to the people. His unnecessary pandering to neocolonial demands will in the end, like it happened in most doomed countries, lead to finally making the currency of the country an object of mockery in the comity of civilised countries.

Perhaps, it would be apt to delve into history to ascertain the current economic standing of other countries that tried what Sanusi Lamido is foisting on the nation today. In early 1975, the highest denomination in Argentina was 1,000 pesos. By late 1976, it rose to 5,000 pesos. By 1979 and 1981, it rose to 10,000 pesos and 1,000,000 respectively. When this failed, the currency was re-named peso argentine in 1983. But we all know that Argentina’s currency is not in world’s reckoning today.

Bolivia’s highest currency denomination in 1984 was 1,000 Bolivian pesos. But in 1985, it rose to 10,000,000 Bolivian pesos. In 1987 after making mess of its currency, the government renamed it Boliviano. What has this neocolonial initiative achieved for Bolivia today?

Also in a country called Nicaragua in 1986, the highest denomination was 10,000 cordobas that was later increased to1, 000,000 cordobas in 1987.

In its 1988 currency re-engineering that failed, the government, arising from inexorable inflation, introduced a currency with the prefix new- Cordoba that exchanged for 10,000 old cordobas. Another of its derisory currency reengineering in 1990 saw the highest denomination being one hundred million new cordobas. However in 1991, one new Cordoba was exchanged for 5,000,000 old cordobas. There seems to be no sense in this!

• (To be continued next week) graduating student at the University of Ibadan Zoology Department; much sought after by the UN community, etc. all of this had to be cut down in a moment of Obasanjo silliness. One is not making case for corruption, one is only saying let fair be fair.

The case of Professor Dora Akunyili is still fresh in our minds. The only one among a Federal Executive Council members numbering about 50 who could muster the juice to stand up and put it to writing that Nigeria could not be ruled by an ailing, exiled president. It was her courageous move as a member of the cabinet which broke the dangerous deadlock and aided the Senate’s motion tagged ‘doctrine of necessity’. Akunyili saved the day for then Vice President Goodluck Jonathan to break the hold of the so-called cabal and to become Acting President. But no sooner did Jonathan sit pretty than Akunyili was harried out. Because she is Igbo. The story about joining APGA and running for Senate seat methinks, is a face saving tale. It did not matter that she proved to be one of the very few public officials who have shown that government agencies can actually work. She proved that point so eloquently at NAFDAC and she showed sparks of her usual brilliance as Minister of Information. It’s all quiet on that front now with scarcely any initiative to ponder upon.

This brings us to the professor Barth Nnaji shenanigan. The Minister of Power who was sacked even though the President said he committed no offence. Perhaps there was an intention to commit but is that enough to cut him down in that manner? No; the singular reason is because he is Igbo, among the very best of Igbo. Dear reader can’t you guess the ministers who are looting the treasury even as you read this? Are they in danger of being sacked? Where is that minister who was in court for carting away N55 billion? Where are the Yar’Adua cabal ministers who walked away with hundreds of billions naira; can anyone dare question them?

Prof Nnaji, best of his class, nwafor onye isi okpukpu , the only thing that seemed to make sense in the Jonathan cabinet had to be cut down mid-flight and damaged: just because he is Igbo.

LAST MUG: Gone golden: yours truly turned 50 last Wednesday September 5th. It’s such a great feeling especially when you feel 30. To God, our creator be the glory for the wonderful gift of life and health. My profound gratitude goes to all who have set things abuzz since Wednesday.

Please say a prayer for me as you read this.

I’ll score two goals in Liberia—Emenike • Not worried about racism in Europe

Pg. 24

YOBO:

I won’t quit Eagles now

Pg. 24

Sport

Friday, September 7, 2012

Joel Obi returns in three weeks Pg. 24

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Mikel helped

Eaglets’ me settle easily at duo vow Chelsea—Moses to wreck • Hails CL opportunity Junior Menas Pg. 24

From Segun Ogunjimi, Abuja

AYC QUALIFIER

Manu confident of Eaglets’ chances Pg. 24

...As CAF picks Malian referee for clash

Falconets to form core of Falcons Pg. 41

•Victor Moses

NIGERIA/LIBERIA CLASH

‘Monrovia’s bad pitch won’t bother Eagles’

Pg. 24

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NATIONSPORT FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

NATION SPORT

NATION SPORT

Joel Obi returns in three weeks

I’ll score two goals in Glo backs Eagles

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IGERIA whiz - kid Joel Obi will take between 15 - 20 days to return to action according to Italian website FCInter1908.it.

Obi has been out of action since May after he picked up a muscle injury which made him unavailable for three Super Eagles matches against Namibia, Malawi and Rwanda in June.

Inter Milan have included the youngster, who has started individual training, in the squad for the group stage of the Europa League.

Joel Obi, 21, suited 27 times (11 starts) in the Serie A last season. This season will be his third for the threetime European champions.

•Not worried about racism in Europe

S

UPER EAGLES and Spartak Moscow of Russia striker, Emmanuel Emenike has vowed to score two goals against the Lone Stars of Liberia on Saturday at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Stadium in Monrovia.

The bulky forward told NationSport that he would be thankful to God if he can meet this target that he set for himself to help the Eagles in their quest of searching for a place in the finals of the 2013 Africa Nations Cup slated for South Africa.

“My ambition is to score goals in my club and Super

•Emenike

Werder Bremen debut delights Akpala

Eaglets’ duo vow to wreck Junior Menas

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OLDEN EAGLETS’ duo of Alhassan Ibrahim and Kelechi Iheanacho have vowed to get among the goals when Nigeria tackle Niger in their First Round, first leg 2013 African UnderAfrican Youth Championship qualifier in Niamey on Saturday.

The lads have jointly scored some 25 goals in the team’s preparatory matches including the International friendly match against Junior Wasps Rwanda last weekend and they have reckoned that shooting down the Junior Menas in Niamey is a task that must be done.

Ibrahim, the bean-pole midfielder who has a stark resemblance with immediate past Super Eagles captain, Nwankwo Kanu, said he would give a good account of himself.

“It is true that I have scored some goals for the team but they are not my most important goals,” said Ibrahim, who was voted the Most Valuable Player when the Golden Eaglets won the SUPA COPA NEROS at the official opening of NEROS Sports Stadium in Nanka, Anambra state in May. “All the goals in the previous matches we played are irrelevant because they did not qualify us for any tournament and that is why we must go for goals against Niger in Niamey.”

Similarly, Iheanacho has promised to further the cause of the team. The former Under-15 striker’s appetite for scoring goals is second to none in the team.

“It is a privilege to be here to play for the National Under-17 team and since I’m here, I’ll do my best,” Said Iheanacho. “I’m ready to work hard for the team and I’m confident that I would be among the goal scorers for Nigeria against Niger in Niamey.”

IGERIA international and Werder Bremen’s new signing, Joseph Akpala has admitted that he is ecstatic with his debut for the club and regards the transfer as the next big step in his career.

The 26-year-old striker is keen to make his mark in the first team and is eager to cement his place in the side.

He said: “I'm really pleased that my debut went so well.

We've won and I was able to play a few minutes after just a short time in Bremen. Now it's important that I settle into the team as quickly as possible.”

Die Werderaner secured their first win of the league season with a 2-0 victory over Hamburg SV at the Weserstadion on Saturday. Aaron Hunt and Nils Petersen scored in the secondhalf for the home side to take all three points from the game.

Akpala, who signed earlier this summer from Club Brugge for an undisclosed fee, made his debut in the game. The player came in as a substitute for Kevin De Bruyne in the 86th minute and received a standing ovation from the home fans.

The former Club Brugge man added that it was a great feeling to make his debut in front of the home fans. Akpala stated that he is happy that his performances in Belgium were taken into consideration by Werder Bremen and is delighted with the switch.

“It is always something special to play in such an amazing atmosphere. But what was ultimately decisive was that I can take the next step in my career in the Bundesliga after being able to improve in Belgium. And I'm pleased that the move to Werder came off,” he concluded.

Joseph Akpala scored a total of 38 goals from the 102 league games for Belgian side Club Brugge in the four years he spent at the club. The player joined Werder Bremen for a reported fee of €2.5 million last month and will provide cover to Nils Petersen.

FIFA U-20 WOMEN WORLD CUP

Ofoegbu still dreaming of glory

H

AVING squandered a hatful of chances against Mexico in the quarter-finals of the FIFA Women's U-20 World Cup Japan 2012, Nigeria came perilously close to crashing out of the tournament before Desire Oparanozie's extra-time goal sent them through.

They then experienced the same difficulties against USA, only this time the Falconets paid the price, failing to score despite creating several chances and conceding twice at the other end.

With the team now certain to come up short compared with Germany 2010, when they made it through to the final, captain Gloria Ofoegbu certainly has some regrets. "I think that everything worked fine, as it usually does," she said to FIFA.com as she left an eerily silent locker-room after the 2-0 defeat. "Everything that is apart from converting our chances – we ended up missing most of the ones that came our way."

Nigeria's dreams of glory and lifting the trophy have now been dashed, but the defender is hoping to learn lessons from this defeat rather than wallowing in self-pity. "What we can take from this tournament first and foremost is the fact that we have to treat each attack like it's the only chance we're going to get in that match," said the River Angels player. "The Americans only had a few chances but they put them away, and if we'd have done the same with one or two of ours, it would be us in the final."chance we're going to get in that match," said the River Angels player. "The Americans only had a few chances but they put them away, and if we'd have done the same with one or two of ours, it would be us in the final.”

From Segun Ogunjimi, Abuja Eagles also. So as a striker it is obvious that I want to score. So by the grace of God I am promising (scoring) two goals against Liberia in Monrovia on Saturday. I promised that we are going to win there”, Emenike told NationSport.

Many African players have been subjected to racial abuses and discriminations across Europe but the former Turkish based striker said he doesn’t care what ever anybody say than to play football that brought him to Europe.

“I don’t care what anybody says against me on and off field of play in Russia. I went there to play and not to exchange talks. So my main

motive is to concentrate on my career there and try to improve my game there”, he disclosed.

He also disclosed that there is unity and togetherness in the Eagles team because every player is seen as one and that there is no discrimination as regards who is a foreign based pros or home based pros.

“I don’t believe in the tag foreign based and home based. I sincerely believe that we are brothers and hail from the same country, Nigeria. So any player putting on green white green of Nigeria is my brother and we will always relate as one and this is the only thing that can make us achieve positive results for the team” Emenike assured.

T

ELECOMMUNICATI ONS giant, Globacom, has declared support for the Super Eagles ahead of the crucial first leg of 2013 African Cup of Nations qualifier against Lone Stars of Liberia in Monrovia on Saturday.

According to Globacom, the Eagles need maximum support from Nigerians in their quest to win the 2013 African Cup of Nations’ ticket.

“Our focus should be on the qualification ticket for the next

Nations Cup holding in South Africa in 2013 as the Eagles gradually fights their way back to reckoning in Africa” the company said.

Globacom therefore advised the team to work very hard and defeat the Lone Stars in the first leg to make the return leg in Calabar less challenging.

Meanwhile, the team has intensified preparation for the match with the Head Coach, Stephen Keshi, assuring Nigerians that the poor state of Samuel Doe Stadium in

Monrovia will not affect the team’s performance in the encounter.

“We used the same pitch when we played against them in an exhibition match early this year and we triumphed, so the pitch won’t be an excuse for the team not to play well and win,” Keshi said.

Globacom is the major partner of the Nigeria Football Federation and official sponsor of Nigerian national teams.

YOBO:

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•Joel Obi

to beat Liberia

Liberia —Emenike

I won’t quit Eagles now S

UPER EAGLES’ Captain, Joseph Yobo has revealed to NationSport that he is not ready to quit the Senior National Team even if the team fails to make it to next edition of the Africa Nations Cup in South Africa.

Nigeria did not qualify for the last edition played in Gabon/Equatorial Guinea early this year. The Nigeria national team needed a home win to make it to the Championship, but were forced to a 2-2 draw by the Sylis stars of Guinea here at the Abuja National Stadium. This failure led to the sack of former coach Samon Siasia.

Reacting to a question on what would be of his carreer in National team if the Super Eagles fail to make it to the most glamourous championship in Africa, the Fernabache of Turkey strongman said: "I hate to answer such questions. Such a thing is not on my mind, because, I know Nigeria will qualify. We still have the World Cup

From Patrick Ngwaogu, Abuja qualifiers to prosecute, I am the team captain, I cannot abandon the team half way. We have to complete the assignment. I did think like that in the past, but now, It is not so. It is not only about Joseph Yobo, but the team in general. “I won't put myself in that situation again in my life because I know the kind of trauma I suffered the last time. The World Cup is there, and life must continue.

Before I can take that kind of decision in future, I would look at what happened, and what did not happen".

The former Everton defender appealed for the support of all Nigerians in their quest of getting to the Nations cup "now our fate is in our hands, if we want to be in South Africa next January. No matter how we win, it doesn't matter. Nigerians should not be expecting us to

Monrovia’s bad pitch won’t bother Eagles —Moses

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HELSEA FORWARD, Victor Moses says he expects to play on a bad pitch when Nigeria square up against Liberia in the final round of qualifying for the 2013 African Cup of Nations.

The Super Eagles go head-to-head with the Lone Star at the Samuel

Kanyon Doe Sports Complex on Saturday and the 21-year-old former Wigan Athletic man is expecting a complicated encounter because of the pitch in Monrovia.

“From what we have been told, we expect to play on a pitch that may not the best in the world but that’s the

situation," he said.

Moses, however, said the state of the pitch would not give the players any excuse on Saturday.

“We will go there and try to win. I am looking forward to the game and have been giving my best in training.

The other lads have been giving their

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IGERIA Football Federation (NFF) has charged Falconets to win the losers' match against hosts, Japan on Saturday at the FIFA Under-20 Women’s World Cup in Japan.

Chairman, NFF media and publicity committee, Emeka Inyama urged the women not to be dispirited by the 0-2 semifinal loss to the USA on Tuesday as they were not in any way disgraced.

"Of course, the team were not disgraced.

The players put up good fighting spirit and gave it their all but it was not their day.

"They created more chances than the Americans, had greater ball possession and actual playing time than their opponents.

"We want them to go all out for the bronze medal on Saturday in order to console fans and Nigerians who have supported the team ever since.

"Its something they can do against the Japanese by being well-organised and disciplined," he said.

Inyama revealed NFF is oiling its technical machine to discover more players for all the women teams.

He noted that the performance of the Falconets in Japan showed there is hope they could form the nucleus of the new Super Falcons.

"The age grade competitions are strictly developmental and to that extent the Falconets have done fairly enough to be considered for the next level," he summed up.

Nigeria will take on hosts, Japan for the losers' game at the 60,000-seat Tokyo National Stadium on Saturday.

Final statistics showed that Nigeria had 32 minutes actual playing time to America’s 23, had 58% of possession, had 10 shots at goal and seven corner kicks to the Americans’ six.

Falconets will rest on Wednesday train on Thursday and Friday for the clash against the Japanese on Saturday.

Kaita close to Olympiakos Nicosia move

beat them with wide margins, because, it no longer happen in football. “There are no longer minnows in the game. even if you bring 11 players that are ready to run around the pitch, they would give you problems. We need all the support for the team to move forward. Our fans should give us all the support, that is how it works in other climes. We are at the point where we did not qualify the last time, so we need the support of all Nigerians to make it this time around" he pleaded. best in training.

“The victory is the most important thing and that is what we will be looking to achieve. All the lads are looking forward to the game,” he said.

Moses made his Eagles' debut as a substitute on February 29, 2012 against Rwanda and has gone on to play two more times for the Nigerian national team.

Falconets to form core of Falcons

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IGERIA international Sani Kaita, who recently terminated his contract with Tavriya, is close to agreeing terms with Olympiakos Nicosia, reports in the Cypriot media suggest.

Sigmalive.com informs that Kaita will arrive the Cypriot capital this week to undergo a medical examination with the three-time champions of the Cypriot First Division.

Kaita is well known to coach Nikodimos Papavasiliou , and the former Kano Pillar has reportedly agreed financial terms with The Green Blacks.

If everything goes according to plan, Olympiakos Nicosia will be Kaita's seventh club in a space of five years. The globetrotter in football terms previously played for Kuban Krasnodar, Lokomotiv Moscow, Alania Vladikavkaz, Metalist Kharkiv, Iraklis and Tavriya.

•Yobo

AFRICAN YOUTH CHAMPIONSHIP QUALIFIER

Manu confident of Eaglets’ chances ...As CAF picks Malian referee for clash

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OLDEN EAGLETS’ Head Coach, Manu Garba (MFR), is confident about the chances of his team in this weekend’s first round, first leg of the 2013 Under-17 African Youth Championship qualifier against Niger in Niamey.

He said the players have undergone serious training and are all in a better frame of mind going into the match, adding that the results recorded during last weekend’s International friendly match against Junior Wasps of Rwanda have boosted the team’s morale.

“We have prepared enough for this assignment and we want to use this opportunity to thank the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the government and people of Cross River State for the assistance rendered to our team,” Garba said.

“We have played many matches against soccer

academies and amateur teams but the way the players responded against Rwanda in the first and second game when we won 5-0 and 3-0 respectively gives us the confidence that they are ready for this match.

“As a team, we respect our opponents and Niger would not be an exemption. But the players are ready for the game against Niger and Insha

Allah, it shall be well with this team,” added Manu.

A team of 18 players and the team’s technical crew departs Calabar Thursday for Abuja en route to Niamey to keep a date with the Junior Menas.

Meanwhile, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has named Malian Mahamadou Keita as the centre referee for the match between Niger and Nigeria. He will be assisted by Mouriba Diakite and Nouhoum Bamba while Ousmane Sidibe will assume the fourth official duties.Bruno Didavi of Republic of Benin has also been named as the match commissioner.

•Keita

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBR 7, 2012

25

PEOPLE THE NATION

AN -EIGHT PAGE SECTION ON SOCIETY

In commemoration of its 21st anniversary, the Abia State Government has honoured some indigenes for contributing to the state’s growth. UGOCHUKWU UGOJI-EKE reports.

•From left: Chief Bob Ogbuagu; Hon Acho Nwakanma; wife of former Head of State Lady Victoria Aguiyi Ironsi and Gen Ike Nwachukwu

At 21, Abia honours enterprise, industry T

WENTY-ONE years ago, their state was created. Since its creation, they have toiled to make it work. During the celebration of its 21st anniversary on August 27, some of them reaped the reward of their efforts. They were honoured at the Merit Award to mark the anniversary.

The event attracted the young and the old.

At the colourful ceremony were gaily dressed guests from within and outside the state. Most of them appeared smart in traditional outfits.

The awardees too were resplendently dressed. One of them, John Obuh, the Flying Eagle's coach, was regal in his Ohafia traditional outfit. ThisDay Editor Ijeoma Nwaogwugwu was hot in her purple short gown with animal prints with a pair of pumps to match. She caused heads to turn.

Even the old were not left out in the glamour as the living founding fathers of the state all shone like million stars in their traditional wears.

The Speaker of the House of Assembly, Hon. Ude Oko-Chukwu, came in an all-white suit, shirt, tie, stockings and a pair of shoes.

The ceremony was preceded by a thanksgiving service organised by the state chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN). At the service, prayers and supplications were made for the governor and his team, other arms of government and the nation.

In his sermon, CAN chairman, Reverend Chidi Okoroafor, thanked God for the journey so far.

Revd Okoroafor said Abia’s future is bright

adding that the state is moving forward.

"We believe that the economy will be better and that every sector will be better," he prayed.

"I do not believe we've seen the best of everything; the best is yet to come," he added.

The cleric urged Abians to support the governor and pray for him to succeed in his mission to expand all the frontiers of development in the state.

During the award, Governor Theodore Orji, represented by his deputy, Chief Emeka Ananaba, congratulated the awardees for doing the state proud in their chosen careers.

He enjoined Abians, youths in particular, to emulate the awardees.

Abia, Orji said, still remains a land of hope, opportunities and great potential which his government is determined to drive to new development level.

He urged Abians to play their own role by paying their taxes and making useful contributions for the growth of the state.

Orji said the state can only survive and grow in leaps and bounds not by dreaming and wishful thinking on the part of the citizens, "but by working hard, so all Abians sitting on the fence should jump down and take decisive steps to make their good works felt in this state and by our people."

"I, therefore, appeal to all Abians to continue to support our government so that together we will take Abia State to the next level of enduring political, social and economic development where all will be happy."

•Dr Ezikpe (left) and Sir Ananaba

He said the need to start afresh has been made possible with a new foundation built on "legacy projects."

In his remarks, the Chairman of Abia State Advisory Council and the organisers of the programme, Dr Anagha Ezeikpe, said Abia was founded on equity and a bill was already

before the State House of Assembly to pass the Charter of Equity into law to ensure that every governor kept to the tenets of the charter.

•More pictures on page 26

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

26

SOCIETY The 40th day Fidau of Oyo State Governor Abiola Ajumobi’s mother, Madam Dhikrat Abeje Ajimobi, was held in Ibadan last Saturday. The ceremony was well attended, report BISI OLADELE AND TAYE JOHNSON

Farewell to Ajimobi’s mum E VERYTHING reflected class.

The venue; the sitting arrangement; the dressing and the decorations. It could not have been otherwise considering the calibre of the host, Oyo State Governor Isiaka Abiola Ajimobi. It was the 40th Day Fidau for his mother, Madam Dhikrat Abeje Ajimobi, at the Ibadan Recreation Centre. The expansive venue was decorated in white, navy and sky blue. To ensure that everything was perfect, a team of organisers which included commissioners and special advisers visited the venue intermitently.

By 7am, the stage was set for the event. Security operatives, event planners and caterers swarmed the place to give it the final touch in preparation for the ‘A’ list guests.

With three compartments but two entrances, movement into the venue was controlled. The governor had a compartment to himself and his guests, other members of the family were in another compartment, and the late Madam primary constituency, the Alasalatu took the third compartment.

Blue, Governor Ajimobi’s favourite colour, was preferred by most guests.

Wearing a blue Ankara fabric and a navy blue cap to match, Ajimobi arrived at the venue at 2:10 pm to join his wife, Florence, who had been receiving guests. His broad smiles and movement from one table to another added colour to the gathering.

The combination of sumptuous meals, thrilling tunes from the stables of fuji maestro, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (KWAM1), Wande Cole, Nice, Wole Ojo and rib-cracking jokes from the compere, Gbenga Adeyinka, kept guests dancing, giggling on their seats. The band of the Youth Empowerment Scheme of Oyo State (YES-O) entertained other members of the Ajimobi family in their compartment. The caterers included the Royal Spices and Oh La La Catering.

As posh cars streamed into the venue, residents and passers-by craned their necks to see those alighting from them.

Itinerant drummers made brisk business, singing and drumming the praise, of guests.

Former Oyo State Governor Rasheed Ladoja described the late Madam Ajimobi as a mother who inculcated values in her children.

These values, he said, have been helping her children to succeed in life, citing the governor, Ajimobi as example.

The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, also paid tributes to the deceased, saying: “The woman was a good and hardworking mother who brought her children up in the way of Allah. You can see what they have become today. At least, you can see the governor.”

The monarch advised parents to emulate the deceased.

Among the guests were National Chairman, Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Chief Bisi Akande; the party’s Southwest, Director of Publicity of the party in the Southwest, Mr Ayo Afolabi; Senator Oluremi Tinubu; former Governor of Ekiti State, Otunba Niyi Adebayo.

Governors Rauf Aregbeola

•Governor Ajimobi flanked by his wife, Florence (left) and Senator Tinubu

•Mrs Olayinka

•Oba Adeyemi

•Mrs Florence Ajimobi flanked by her Osun State counterpart Alhaja Sherifat Aregbesola (left) and Otunba Laoye-Tomori

•Chief Akande (left) and Chief Koleoso

•Hon Adeyemo and Hon Orelope-Adefulire

•Aare Ago of Ogbomosho Chief Samuel Otolorin (left) and Aare Ayandotun Ayanlakin

•Onjo of Okeho Oba-Rafiu Osuolale (left) and Oba Adegbola

(Osun); Emmanuel Uduaghan (Delta); Ibikunle Amosun (Ogun) and Niger State Governor Dr Babangida Aliyu was represented by the Head of Service, Alhaji

Service, Alhaji Tajudeen Aremu; Secretary to the State Government (SSG) Alhaji Waheed Akin Olajide; Otunba of Staff Dr Adeolu Akande and members of the House of As-

Ibrahim Maitem. Also there were Oyo State Deputy Governor, Chief Moses Alake-Adeyemo; Speaker of the House of Assembly, Alhaja Monsurat Sunmonu; the Head of

sembly.

Wives of governors of Osun, Ekiti and Lagos state, Alhaja Sherifat Aregbesola; Erelu Bisi Fayemi and Dame Abimbola Fashola; Osun State Deputy Governor Mrs Titi

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

27

SOCIETY

•Otunba Adebayo (left) and Chief Akintola (SAN)

•Hon Sunmonu

•Senator Bob Effiong

•Alhaji Ladoja (left) and Chief Alabi

•Oba Abimbola Salaudeen

•Representative of Niger State governor Ahaji Hammed Matane

•Chief Sarata Adesina

•Senator Teslim Folarin

•From left: Oba-elect of Ikate, Surulere Prince Lateef Adams; Chief Pius Akinyelure and Mr Afolabi Samali

•Mr Harveey Zabusky (left) and Bishop Samuel Adebiyi

•Mrs Akande and her husband Mr Adebayo Akande

Laoye-Tomori and and her Ekiti State counterpart, Mrs Funmi Olayinka and her husband, Lanre, an architect were also in attendance.

Others were Deputy Governors of Lagos, Ogun and Ondo states, Mrs Adejoke OrelopeAdefulire; Mr Segun Adesegun and Alhaji Alli Olanusi, and former Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Mrs Sarah Sosan.

Sarat, wife of Alhaji Lam, ACN leader in the state, represented the family.

Traditional rulers, politicians, captains of industry, religious leaders also graced the event.

Assistant, Dr Iyan Okoh; the Chief Medical Director, University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, Prof. Temitope Alonge; Iyalode of Ibadanland, Chief Aminat Abiodun; and National President, National Council for Women Societies, Mrs Nkechi Mbu and Chief Lamidi Ajadi.

Ambassador Olu Saanu; Senator Olorunnimbe Mamora; Chief Lekan Alabi; Alhaji Mutiu Are; Chief Lateef Oyelade; Ambassador Ronke Adefowope; Senator Teslim Folarin; Group Managing Director, First Bank PLC, Mr Bisi Onasanya; Otunba Reuben Famuyibo; Hon. Saheed Fijabi;

Among the traditional rulers were the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Samuel Odulana, represented by High Chiefs Lekan Balogun, S. A. Omiyale and Eddy Oyewole; the Soun of Ogbomoso, represented by High Chief Otolorin; Onikoyi of Ikoyi Ile, Oba Yekeen Oladipupo; Onitede of Tede, Oba Abdulrauf Oladoyin and the Eleruwa of Eruwa, Oba Samuel Adegbola.

Chief Niyi Akintola (SAN); industrialist, Chief Kola Daisi; President, Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Chief Bayo Oyero; Chief Onikepo Akande; Minister of Health, represented by his Senior Special

PHOTOS: FEMI ILESANMI

Chief Bose Adedibu and Alhaji Lateef Akinsola (aka Tokyo); former Inspector General of Police, Alhaji Musiliu Smith; General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division, Ibadan, Maj. Gen. Mohammed Abubakar; Comptroller of Immigration in Oyo State, Mr Joseph Olaitan; Mr Godwin Ogagaoghene; Oloruntoba Jide Joseph; Mr Charles Ugwu; Commissioner of Police, Mr Joseph Mbu and his predecessor, Mr Tambari Mohammed.

With the glamour, class of guests and the overall success of the final burial, the memory would definitely linger for long.

28

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

SOCIETY AT 21, ABIA HONOURS ENTERPRISE, INDUSTRY

•A guest

•Lady Victoria Akanwa

•Oko-Chukwu presenting award to Ms Nwogwugwu

•Some of the awardees

•Cross-section of clergies at the event

Friends, family and former colleagues gathered on July21 and 22, 2012 to celebrate the life and times of their friend, father, brother and confidant, Elder Titus Oladapo Komolafe (a.k.a T.O.K).

•The deceased’s children (from left), Damisi; Tosin and Sola with former First Bank of Nigeria Managing Director Mr Jacob Ajekigbe (second left)

•Mrs Feyi Adebayo

H

E meant different things to different people.

Elder Titus Oladapo Komolafe (a.k.a T.O.K) would be remembered for his uprightness.

At the service of songs before his interment at the Fafunwa Estate, Ipaja residence of the deceased on Thursday, July 21, 2012, it was testimony galore as many attested to the kind, generous and pious life the deceased lived.

•Former FBN BDC Managing Director Mr Folorunso Omoja

•Mrs Suzan Omasa (left) and a guest

•Pastor Adegboola Arole (right) and Mr Tayo Ladega

Farewell to a ‘generous man’ Tears flowed freely from those who still found it hard to believe Elder Komolafe was gone as the deceased was laid in-state.

Friday, July 22, was the final burial at the Atan Cemetery, Sabo-Yaba, Lagos. It was a glorious home-going as people gathered from all

works of life to bid T.O.K eternal farewell.

Guests, among whom were top former and serving management staff of First Bank Plc, were later entertained at the Officers’ Mess of Sam Ethnan Air-Force Base, Ikeja, Lagos.

An indigene of Ilesha in Osun State, Elder

Komolafe is survived by a wife, Mrs V.A. Komolafe, and children: Damisi, Samuel, and Tosin, and many grandchildren and a large extended family.

He was a senior staff of First Bank of Nigeria PLC where he retired in 2009 after 30 years of meritorious service.

29 FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

Vol 4. No. 1765

Premium lowsugar malt drink Amstel Malta has continued its romance with undergraduates, staging the Amstel Malta Showtime, in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital. JIMI DAVID was there.

Amstel Malta connects with students in Ibadan

A

MSTEL Malta stormed Ibadan, capital of Oyo State with rap star MI and Alagomeji exponent, 9ice, thrilling the audience with fast-rising comedian, Laff Up reeling out hilarious jokes. When the event finally came to an end, it was certainly a night to remember for the students.

For months, the ancient city was abuzz with excitement over the event. For students of the University of Ibadan (UI), The Polytechnic, Ibadan and other tertiary institutions in and outside the state, it was the moment they had been waiting for.

Last month, Amstel Malta Showtime made its way to the ancient city of Benin with two of the biggest artistes in the country, Naeto C and Davido. A month earlier, the oil rich city of Port Harcourt, capital of Rivers State, was the stage from which the duo of P Square and Nabania crooner Flavour rocked students of tertiary institutions. Finally, Ibadan got its own spotlight courtesy of Amstel Malta Showtime with the arrival of MI and 9ice.

However, it was not all about the superstars that performed. The night would also feature special talent hunt competition where some of the hottest talents from tertiary institutions would slug it out in singing, dancing and comedy competition.

Winners will walk away with the mouthwatering sum of N500,000 cash prize, as well as a brand new iPad and an all-expense paid weekend for two in Lagos.

The night kicked off with aplomb as the students trooped to the Red Carpet to take pictures and savour the experience of Amstel Malta Showtime. The ambience certainly had an air of glamour around it as the paparazzi took turns to interview the excited students.

Then, it was Showtime! Time for the grand finale! Kick-starting proceedings was entertainer Darey ‘Art’ Alade, the show’s anchor. Darey has been featuring in all Amstel Malta Showtime editions with his impressive stagecraft and uncanny ability to bond with students. Amstel Malta Showtime in Ibadan was no different as the Kogi-born entertainer thrilled the students.

While the students could not wait for the main stars of the night to step on the stage, they had to be patient as the talent hunt competition kick-started proceedings. The competition saw the audience playing a key role as they were to decide the winners via voice votes.

• 9ice thrilling the audience

Up stepped Owomoyela Oluwatobi Peteru (Tobi), Olakunle Aderenle and Temitayo Smith, to do battle over who would be crowned winner in the category.

While the three contestants gave a good account of themselves, much to the delight of the audience, however, a winner had to be crowned and Owomoyela Oluwatobi Peteru was adjudged winner. In addition to the prizes he won, Peteru, who is a HND 1, student of Purchasing and Supply at The Polytechnic, Ibadan, also had the rare privilege of performing alongside Laff Up, the comedian of the night.

The dancing competition was no less exciting as Bamidele Oni, Happy Ijeoma and Onome Ilovhogie lit up the dance floor with their exciting steps. Edo State-born Onome Ilovhogie, who is a 300 Level Sociology student of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), was voted winner of the dance category.

And then it was time for the singing competition. There was really no doubt as to who would be voted the winner. From the moment, Dozie Mbata, a 400 level student of University of Ibadan, stepped on the stage, he stole the hearts of the crowd with his delivery. Confident with a humourous twist to his rap song, Mbata certainly showed that he is one to look out for in the future. Though he was the very first singer to come on the stage, Mbata practically sealed the fates of the other contestants.

Alfred Nkem Promise and Azuka Obi, the other contestans in the category, certainly had no chance after hurricane Mbata was through with his performance as the audience chose him to be the winner. Certainly, it was a well-earned victory.

Then, it was time for the main event of the night. The first superstar to come on stage was rapper MI. It was a blend of the upcoming

‘This night is a special night and we are dedicating it to the students that attended the event. They have enjoyed the performances of the stars and some of them have had the opportunity to be star themselves’

talents and the established superstar as Mbata had the rare privileged of performing with MI. He soon exited the stage for MI and the Taraba State-born singer practically set the house on fire with his songs. From Anoti to Undisputed Champion, Number 1, Action Film and others, the crowd simply could not get enough of MI. All too soon, MI’s performance came to an end only for Alopomeji exponent, 9ice, to crank up the excitement a notch higher. With a hip-twisting dancer supporting his performance, 9ice gave a commanding display as he rendered songs like Party Rider, Attitude, Photocopy and Gongo Aso, among others.

9ice’s performance brought the event to a close. It was, indeed, a splendid end to an exciting evening.

Speaking on the event, the brand manager of Amstel Malta, Mrs. Adedoyin Owotomo, described the evening as a special night for the students. “This night is a special night and we are dedicating it to the students that attended the event. They have enjoyed the performances of the stars and some of them have had the opportunity to be star themselves.”

Now the focus will turn to Lagos where the finale edition of Amstel Malta Showtime for the year will hold. The event is expected to parade top artistes including Tuface Idibia and Wiz kid.

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

30

Brandnews

Nigeria is number one Guinness market globally, says report G

UINNESS Nigeria Plc, a leading brewing company and subsidiary of Diageo Plc, has become the number one market for the Guinness Foreign Extra Stout brand by net sales.

This is contained in an end-of-year results from Diageo Plc, which saw an increase in organic net sales of Guinness in Africa by seven per cent.

Guinness Foreign Extra Stout was first exported to Sierra Leone as far back as 1827, and has since grown to become one of the largest beer brands on the continent, selling 34 bottles a second.

Nigeria was home to the first brewery to produce Guinness For-

eign Extra Stout outside the British Isles in 1963 when its Ikeja brewery was built. The beer is now exported to Great Britain where the reported net sales are now well over half a billion naira and are partly responsible for the latest accolade as the largest Guinness stout market in the world!

Since 1963, Guinness Foreign Extra Stout has soared in popularity so much so that significant investments of £225 million were made during the past year to expand pro-

IT firm celebrates

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RAGNET Solutions Limited, a leading computer-based testing and talent management firm, has rolled out the drums to celebrate its fifth year of revolutionising computer-based testing and e-recruitment services in Nigeria.

At a press briefing, its Managing Director, Mr Robert Ikazoboh said the introduction of the latest technology in computer-based testing and online application system by the company had eliminated the problems associated with such exercises.

He said: “Dragnet Solutions Limited is a dynamic information technology (IT) firm that specialises in the design, development and implementation of people-screening solutions that can be deployed in a variety of uses covering the workplace and the educational area. Before we came on the scene, the process of scholarship administration and matriculation test in the country was largely manual and, therefore, very cumbersome.

“We came in with the sole objective of transforming the ineffective processes with the deployment of technology in partnership with tested global players in the business. Today, the story has changed.

Computer-based testing has simplified the process, reduced the margin of human errors in the collation and release of examination results.

On scholarship administration, Ikazoboh said the company has worked with many others, particularly in the oil & gas sector to design an effective system through which processes of applying for scholarships are done via an application portal.

He said: “We have made a giant stride in scholarship administration. Before our intervention, various companies, particularly in the

oil and gas industry, conducted assessments for applicants.

Ikazoboh also noted that the e-recruitment landscape has been positively impacted by the company’s pioneering efforts.

“It was, indeed, a daunting task when we started out five years ago with a mandate to revolutionise the graduate recruitment process in the country. Remember the days of placing vacancy adverts in the newspapers and thousands of applicants would send their CVs through post.

The recruiter will then spend weeks or months sifting through the pile of applications. Screening of these applications was very tedious and tortuous. The manual process also provided room for manipulations.

“Five years down the line, we are happy to say that many companies are adopting the e-recruitment option. Through our collaborations with them, these clients have overcome the hurdle of burdensome recruitment process. Our process is objective and transparent. Through the use of technology, we have eliminated the human factor that could give rise to end-result manipulation. Applicants are now assured of results that match their efforts and input,” he added.

On the journey in the last five years, Ikazoboh said the company has had its fair share of challenges, but noted that the resolve of its dedicated workforce and the trust of its clientele have been of tremendous help in riding the waves.

The company’s solutions support areas such as scholarship administration, application management, matriculation examination, and testing, among others. Key competencies of the company include biometric identification, erecruitment portal, pre-employment assessment, credential verification and screening examination.

duction capacity at its brewery in Ogba and Benin and further support its growth potential in Nigeria to meet the growing demand for it and Guinness Nigeria Plc’s leading lager brand Harp.

Inspired by a legacy of Guinness advertising, demand for Guinness has also been driven by some ground-breaking marketing activations and consumer engagement initiatives in Nigeria and Africa. Football is a passion shared by Nigerians and has been a key association with which to connect with Guinness consumers.

In November 2010, Guinness Ni-

geria launched GUINNESS VIP™, a social engagement platform accessible via mobile phone through which consumers are able to access exclusive football content, chat live with friends, other fans and football celebrities, share stories and win prizes. Now, with over one million users, it is already one of Nigeria’s fastest-growing mobile platforms and set to become the biggest branded mobile site in Africa.

Seni Adetu, CEO and Managing Director, Guinness Nigeria Plc, said: ‘This is a great achievement which demonstrates the strength of Guinness in Nigeria, the love the con-

• From left: Head, Client Services Miss Funmi Ajay; Ikazoboh; Manager, Business Development Emmanuel Elosia and Head, Marketing, Media & PR Mr Olayera Olaoluwa, all of Dragnet Solutions at the event.

Domino’s Pizza for launch in Nigeria

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T a time when Nigeria is seeking for foreign investors and the expansion of its economy to create more employment for its citizens, Domino’s Pizza - world’s renowned leader in pizza delivery – is set to launch into the Nigerian market. The opening and running of the Domino’s Pizza brand will be championed in the country by Eat’n’Go Ltd as local franchise partner The company will inaugurate the first outlet on Victoria Island, Lagos to give consumers that pizza experience they had never had. The

company has a development plan to open more outlets nationwide.

In a statement by the company, Eat’n’Go Ltd Managing Director Mr Eric Andre said Domino’s Pizza is a world recognised brand that has provided long-lasting pizza experience to a whole lot of consumers around the World. Through its locally-owned and operated franchise system, Domino’s Pizza operates over 9,000 franchised and company-owned stores in the United States and over 60 international markets.

During the second quarter of 2011,

10 families qualify for Maltina Dance All 6 academy

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FTER a gruelling and exciting opening show, 10 of the 15 families that jostled for the top 10 slots have been admitted into the Maltina Dance All 6 Academy. At the end of the show, the judges — Muyiwa Osinaike, Janell Burgess and Michael Adegoke — selected the Ozurumba, Okasia, Boyle, Efiokwu, Onyebuagwu, Eghove, Zibe, Amilo, Nwogwugwu and Green families while the Salami, Daniel, Achor, Onuoha and Fashins families failed in their bid.

The Ozurumba family was the first to hit the stage followed by the Efiokwu family starting out with a robotic performance. The Boyle family was next followed by the Salami, Okasia, Onuoha, Onyebuagu, Achor, Eghove, Zibe,

Amilo, Nwogwugwu, Fashina, Daniel and finally the Green family.

With highly scintillating performances by the 15 families, the judges found it a challenging task selecting the 10 families that would be participants in the MDA academy. The 10 families will be performing the Wazobia, Salsa, Contemporary, Hip-Hop, Pantomime and Gunboot dance styles.

The show has started showing on major Tv stations across the country and beyond, on Sunday September 2, 2012. It will continue daily until the grand finale which will be held on September 22.

The show, which is in its sixth season, has over the years attracted a cult following among Nigeria’s families because of its ability to

sumers have for this great brand and the dedication and commitment of Guinness Nigeria employees who have worked hard to maintain its premium position, despite a difficult economic environment.

We are proud to be called Guinness Nigeria and to sell a brand that celebrates Nigerian values of power, goodness and communion.’

Nick Blazquez, president, Diageo Africa, said: “Guinness is at the heart of our participation in beer in Africa and we will continue to invest in the brand, its marketing and distribution to make sure it delights new and existing consumers across the continent. We have an ambition for Guinness to become the number one beer brand in Africa by value, and this is a key milestone in achieving it.”

bring family members together.

The show will be beamed on Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) 5.30pm, Africa Independent Television (AIT) 9.00pm, Silverbird TV (STV) 8.00pm and Africa Magic (DSTV) 8.00pm.

Six million naira and a brand new car is at stake in this year’s edition.

The first and second runners-up will get N1 million and N500,000 each. The show, according to Mrs Ngozi Nkwoji, senior brand manager, Maltina, is renowned for “sharing happiness” and promoting togetherness with friends and loved ones.

Mrs Nkwoji added that MDA, the foremost experiential and sponsorship platform of the brand, was introduced in 2007.

“The family TV show has no

doubt remained Nigeria’s first and only family dance show featuring families from various regions of the country. From the 2007 edition which produced the Onye Family as winners, Maltina Dance All has gone through five successful seasons.

In 2008, it was the Opuwari Family that carted away the star prize; in 2009, the Ibiams were voted the best dance family. The Adejoh’s were champions in 2010 while in 2011, the Ekubo’s were crowned the best dance family with the unforgettable swinging moves of Ebi Ekubo and his little sister.”

The show, no doubt, will bring to the fore, the Nigerian families’ essence and values of unity, cooperation, vitality and creativity which Maltina is noted for.

Domino’s Pizza made a global retail sales of over $1.6 billion, comprised of nearly $793 million domestically and over $810 million internationally. The company had global retail sales of over $6.2 billion in 2010, comprised of over $3.3 billion domestically and over $2.9 billion internationally.”

Andre added that, with all the record in providing consumers with the best of pizza production and delivery that is second to none, Eat’n’Go is proud to announce the arrival of Domino’s Pizza in Nigeria.

“Eat’n’Go is a restaurant group dedicated to bringing the best F&B brands to Africa. Our Domino’s Pizza Nigeria store is opening soon and our team is in Miami at the moment exploring the international flavour and learning International quality with tasty delicious local flavour.

“Eat’n’Go is keen to excite your taste buds and wet your appetite with diverse F&B brands. So far our growing family consists of Domino’s Pizza and Cold Stone Creamery.

Eat’n’Go is a restaurant group on a mission to become the premier food operator in Africa. We bring Africans the best brands. The brand core values includes: putting people first, demanding for integrity, striving for customer loyalty, delivering with hustle and positive energy, winning by improving result every day.”

Domino’s Pizza’s vision illustrates a company of exceptional people on a mission to be the best pizza delivery company in the world.

SHOPPING

31

THE NATION

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

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

e-mail: janicenkoli@yahoo.com 08033349992 sms only

email:- shopping@thenationonlineng.net

•Pointed-nail touch screen

Touch screens have come to stay When planning to buy an electronic device, consider those with touch screens. The advantages of touch screen devices far outweigh the disadvantages. The availability of touch screen overlay assures you of value for your money. TONIA’DIYAN writes •Continued on page 32

School items not in hot demand yet Page 34

Miss Lagos Carnival:‘I am not extravagant; Page 34

Shoes for men Page 33

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

32

SHOPPING

Touch screens have come to stay •Continued from page 31

F

ROM music players to wireless printers, it seems everything these days has a touch screen. Some companies use it as an excuse to jack up prices without adding much in real value. So, be sure that whatever touch screen device you buy is what you want; it must be user-friendly, and must have a variety of one-touch options for common usage.

Touch screens are better bought from places like Slot in Lagos Island, surulere or ikeja.

They can also be bought from Computer village, ikeja, phone shop ikeja. You are sure of the genuine ones when you buy from these places and there is guarantee for products bought.

Touch screen phones are sold for between N15, 000 and N250, 000. Touch screen televisions are sold for between N60, 000 and N500, 000 depending on the specification.

Touch screens are of different types , there is the resistive touch screen, infrared touch screens, optical touch screens, the capacitive touch screen and the multipoint touch screens amongst others. They are all recommended for use at home, offices and in public places.

Touch screens are becoming more popular as leading manufacturers of computers and laptops have incorporated the touch screen technology in their products. A touch screen is an electronic visual display that can detect the presence and location of a touch with a finger within the display area also sensing other passive objects. The most obvious benefit of having a device with a touch screen capacity is that it is easy to use. It is as easy as pointing to whatever programme you want to start.

Before touch screen computers were introduced, several input devices were used to operate computers. Input devices refer to pieces of hardware that are used to provide data or information to the computer, and they are often responsible for the processing of the computer. The keyboard and the mouse are two of the most commonly used input devices for a computer. But because of the touch screen technology, the need for these input devices is no longer needed. There are some people who actually do not know how to use the mouse and the keyboard.

Touch screens are regularly seen in our daily lives. Given that they are now typically employed by purchasing centres and retail outlets. Mobile telephones, television sets, personal computer screens, ATMs are also touch screen programs. Another properly known gadget that made the most of it

is the moveable video game console called the ‘Nintendo DS’which was the first video game in 2004.

The popularity of smart phones, tablet computers, cellular phones, digital cameras, laptop computers and many types of touch screen information appliances is allowing for the demand and acceptance of more portable and functional touch screens which are becoming more prominent with more and more programs being designed to take full advantage of this technology Size is an important factor to consider, if you’re working in an intensive environment, size may very well matter. Because, you will sure need big touch screen devices. Therefore, whether in an office environment, a storehouse or a grimy production environment, there is a broad selection of LCD touch screens to select from. They also vary from mobile applications to much more complex, versatile personal computers. The big ones growing in popularity more, due to its scalability, versatility, and affordability.

Those that are industrial touch screen technology are now developed to stand up to rugged issues. Hence, making them dependable enough to be used in extremely harsh industrial settings exactly where they are needed. They have the ability to survive tough environments involving warmth, cold weather conditions and even rain. These screens are simpler and reliable; they create the best use in numerous industrial settings.

Areas of touches on the show area can accurately be detected, permitting the display to be explored without the want of any keyboard or other gadget. The voltage change in flip figures out the location of the touch to the screen.

Usually, LCD touch screens are easily attached to computers, and they are made of screen sensor consisting of an obvious glass panel with a touch responsive surface area.

Touching the screen triggers a signal change.

As an input system, touch screens follow mouse features, touching the screen is basically as identical as clicking the mouse. When you touch the screen, the mouse cursor will transfer to that point and make a mouse click.

The development of multipoint touch screens facilitated the tracking of more than one finger on the screen; thus, operations that require more than one finger are possible. These devices also allow multiple users to interact with the touch screen simultaneously.

With the growing use of touch screen, its cost is normally absorbed into the products as they now have proven reliability. Thus, these displays are found today in airplanes, automobiles, gaming consoles, machine con-

•IPad-2-on-stand

trol systems, appliances and handheld display devices such as the multi-touch enabled cell phones; the touch screen market for mobile devices was projected to produce N80, 000,000 in 2009 according to TapSense, a touch screen company.

With the escalating popularity of touch screens, they occupy significantly our everyday lives making even much better the comforts of our properties.

Touch Screen overlay If you want your existing monitor to be replaced by another monitor that is touch screen capable, there is no need for you to spend more money in purchasing a new one. With the use of a touch screen overlay, you could replace it. In the end, it all boils down to what you really want, a new touch screen monitor.

Touch screen overlay is an external cover that can be placed on your computer monitor.

You can actually find a wide range of choices in computer accessories stores mainly at computer village, ikeja. There are several manufacturers that are able to come with the idea of making the usual monitors into something more modern.

All you have to do is do a little research first in order to find the best option available. You should know the exact specifications of the best overlay that can be used for your computer before making the actual purchase; you can then attach it to your monitor. Most of the time, overlays have a USB connector that needs to be inserted into the USB port of your computer.

Using a touch screen overlay is indeed the best option that you can consider as it would definitely be more practical than purchasing a new touch screen monitor.

Some touch screens, primarily those employed in smart phones, use transparent plastic protectors to prevent any scratches that might be caused by day-to-day use from becoming permanent.

Touch screen advantages The devices have graphic designs advantage.

•LCD

•800px-Touchscreen-protector

They make graphic designing as easy as drawing a picture on a piece of paper. Though some are smaller in size and this is because there is no space provided for mouse pad They are very flexible to maximize efficiency and give a level of control over your broad range of services.

The visual display enables for direct interaction with what is displayed without requiring any intermediate device that would need to be held in the hand, other than a stylus, which is optional for most modern touch screens.

They also play a prominent role in the design of digital appliances like the satellite navigation devices, mobile phones, and video games.

The resistive touch is mainly used in restaurants, factories and hospitals because of its high resistance to liquids and contaminants. They are more affordable and are sold at cheaper rates. The capacitive touch screen consists of an insulator such as glass, unlike a resistive touch screen.

The capacitive type of touch screen reduces the visible distance between the user’s finger and what the user is touching on the screen, creating a more direct contact with the content displayed thereby enabling taps and gestures to be even more responsive. It is moderately durable but has limited resolution. It is also prone to false signals and most times used in simple applications.

Unlike capacitive touch screens, infrared touch screens do not require any patterning on the glass thereby increasing the durability of the device and its visual clarity as well.

Optical touch screens are a relatively modern development in touch screen technology, in which two or more image sensors are placed around the edges (mostly the corners) of the screen.

The development of multipoint touch screens has facilitated the tracking of more than one finger on the screen; thus, operations that require more than one finger are possible. These devices also allow multiple users to interact with the touch screen simultaneously.

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

33

SHOPPING

We’ll meet shoppers’ needs, says clothing firm

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CLOTHING company, SOS Clothing, has promised to meet the needs of all Nigerians.

Its Chief Executive Officer, Chima Ajaere, said the clothing line was created to make a difference in style that breaks the age barrier.

The brand, he added, underwent studies on the specific needs of its target market, saying constant improvement would be made to meet the best international clothing standards.

Ajaere spoke during the firm’s visit to the SOS Children’s Village, Lagos where it donated cash gifts and other items.

He said the clothing line has partnered the children’s village with a view to rendering continuous aid to it.

He said: “This is our first time since we commenced operation in Nigeria of doing this. We are sponsoring some of the children here and we deemed it fit to come and visit

By Joseph Jibueze

them.

“As you know, we are in corporate partnership with SOS Children’s Village Nigeria.”

The aim of the partnership, he said, is to give back to the society.

Ajaere added: “It is unfortunate we don’t get lots of Nigeria company do that but we believe so much in charity.

“I am interested in charity and every other person in the company is equally interested in charity.

“Whatever proceeds we get, a certain percentage goes to charity.

“Presently we are with SOS Children Village but we intend to partner with few other organisations in the nearest future.

“We believe we will be able to sustain it as time goes and we are confident that we will sustain it. Charity is a burden and we won’t run away from that.”

Shopping Right with

From my mail box

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EAR reader, Thanks for your comments and responses to The Nation Shopping. We do appreciate them and encourage you to keep the link. For those of you who asked questions, I have taken time to reply them and give you adequate information. However, some are answered here in order to be of benefit to others. Please bear with us if your response is not published in this edition.

Reasonable comments, questions and answers will be published first Friday of every month.

Thanks a million, Janice.

JANICE NKOLI IFEME

Dear Janice, You won’t believe it. I have made it a point of duty to always buy The Nation every Friday because of shopping. It amazes me the intelligent way you pick and handle those sensitive issues about shopping. I have been following your right up a lot and I must tell you that you are a guide to a lot of people.

•Engineer Godfrey Ekwunife, Abuja Lady Janice, kudos for those intelligent write ups. That one you wrote on service is simply wonderful. Shops should understand that the best way to have more customers is through rendering efficient service. I know one or two shops I always go to because of the good manners of the attendants. I could easily part with any amount if a well mannered person offers me the product.

•Johnson, Port Harcourt.

Hi Janice, You might not believe it but I will tell you the truth anyway. I started reading The Nation after I came across one of your shopping articles in a friend’s office. Since then, I have not only been following every edition of shopping but also apply your various tips. Thanks.

•Mary Okafor, Ajaa.

Thanks for your inspiring tips on shopping right. I must confess that reading your column has helped me a lot. Now, I go to the shops or markets with some excitement because I believe I know a lot to guide me. Thanks to your column.

• Promise, Calarbar.

I enjoyed your article on enhancement products for better life. I have used some of the products you listed and I want to second your motion on that. Also, I want to commend you for bringing us a product like the Morning Walker to us. I learned about it from your page. I have been using it since I first saw the advert in The Nation early last year and it has really helped to improve my health. Thanks again and again.

•Yemisi Adebola, Jos

• Ajaere (second left) presenting gifts to the management of SOS children’s village

Shoes for men Are you thinking of updating your shoe wardrobe? here are tips on the right pairs to buy.Writes TONIA ‘DIYAN

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ANY men who wear work-type boots for their jobs also have the tendency to stick with that style of footwear after work hours. Others avoid certain clothes and events because sneakers would be considered inappropriate for an outfit or occasion.

Pick a pair of shoes that match, or is darker than your trouser. Although it is a safe bet, socks do not need to match your shoes. Instead, think of your socks as you would a tie - an item that can bring the whole outfit together.

Wear a belt that will match your shoes if your belt is a multi-coloured strip.

Boots, lug soles, sneakers, loafers and san-

dals all work great with jeans, so you may find it helpful to let the style of your shirt guide you.

For example, a sporty, polo shirt might work with a loafer. T-shirts go well with sneakers or retro-style shoes; long, artsy button-downs work well with sandals or contemporary styles.

Whether you call them dockers, chinos, or khakis, there are a variety of loafers, oxford and other men’s shoes that work well with casual pant trousers.

Let the ornamentation and style of the shoe guide you towards the look you are trying to put on.

Dear Madam, thanks for enlightening us so much on shopping. I really appreciate your good works. Please keep it up. I very much enjoyed your article service. Because it reminds me of some funny experiences I have had with sellers in the area of service.

While in the desperate bid to sell, many of them loose valuable customers. I know a number of shops I have stopped patronising just because of the lackadaisical attitude of the shop keepers.

•Joys Nzekwu, Lagos I agree with you. People who do not give a hoot about providing an exceptional customer experience ought not to be trading. If you are not being served, walk out. Anybody who wants to remain in business should know that the only way to have real customers is by establishing a good relationship with them and not insulting them on their money.

•Felix Okpara, Ojota, Lagos.

Feedback on question Thanks for helping people with your write ups. Please how do I know the right electronics to buy?

Bose Adebayo Bose dear, You did not mention the particular electronic you wish to purchase, as it would have made me to be more specific in telling you the necessary tips you need to know. However, the most important thing is to know exactly what you want to buy. Get basis information about it. There are so many makes that look alike, so you may need to know the exact one you are buying and also some specific details about it, such as the style of labeling, logo, design and other key details. In most cases, the specifications are always clear and distinct. Most importantly, buy from reputable dealers. This is necessary so that you can also get the after sales services and warranty benefits. Besides, if you are a novice to electronics, it would be wise to go shopping for it with someone who knows and who can tell you the truth.

•Janice.

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 •A black Zara leather shoe

•A Rossini brown leather shoe

34

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

MY SHOPPING Miss Lagos Carnival:‘I am not extravagant; I buy only what I need’

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O you have time to shop?

Of course, I do; only the dead do not shop.

When was the last time you went shopping?

About two weeks ago. My final exams are coming, so I am occupied with various activities.

What do you have in mind when you go out to shop?

Unless I have a specific list, I basically just buy anything attractive enough to catch my eye.

Is there any particular item you shop for?

By Omolara Mofesola Omoniyi

It depends on what I need, but I have special love for earrings.

Which day is most suitable for you to shop?

Any day of the week is fine; as long as i have the time to.

How prudent are you in spending?

I am very prudent in my spending. I only buy things I need.

Do you window shop?

Yes, I do.

What is your take on window shopping?

I support the idea because it creates

room for price comparism.

Where are the major places you go for your shopping?

I have no specific place, I shop anywhere I find quality items. But I hate stuffy places.

Do you include ‘bend down selects’ to your list?

I really don’t buy them, but if I see anyone I like, I can purchase it.

Can you compare your shopping life before and during your reign?

Really, I am not extravagant. Even before now, I always buy what I need. So, I really do not see any difference.

•wendy

Want cheap items? Visit Katangowa Katangowa Market is situated at Super Bus stop, Abeokuta Expressway, Lagos. It is a place for cheap and fairly-used items sold at affordable prices.

OMOLARA MOFESOLA OMONIYI was there

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ONDAYS, Wednesday’s and Fridays are the busiest days at Katangowa Market. New stocks are opened; but it is a case of first come first serve. Early comers select the best items, while those who come later buy the remnants.

Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and at times Sundays are when the left overs are sold at cheaper prices. This is because traders want to finish selling their items before the next market day.

The market days are usually crowded.

People with different intentions move around the market. Hawkers also urge buyers to patronise them.

Other items on display are earrings, shoes, bags, electronics, beddings, curtains, school books,writing materials, and food stuffs.

The sellers try all possible means to attract customers. Some use bells and some others pick up one of the best of their items and show to shoppers as they troop in and out of the market.

According to a shopper, Mrs Jumoke Ibikunle, one peculiar thing about buying fairly-used clothes is that there are less chances of seeing someone else wearing the same cloth as yours. Unlike the new clothes, when you buy clothes at an expensive price, before you step out of the boutique, you will see the same style on another person. I avoid

situations like that; I am not saying I do not buy new clothes at all, but I mix them with the fairly-used ones.”

Mr Badmus Bamidele has a different view of the market. “I come here almost every time to do my shopping. I buy practically everything here except my underwears because I am not ready to nurse any disease.

When I buy shirts and trousers, I don’t put them on if I haven’t disinfected them, not to talk of my panties and boxers. I still come here because I am not really financially stable, but when the time comes, as God blesses me, I will not visit this place again, only poor men come here.”

The commonly sold items - clothes - are ridiculously cheap. You could buy a T’ shirt for as low as N30 or even N20.

It is surprising to find that even some boutique owners come to the market, to buy clothes, wash them and repackage them, and then sell them at very expensive prices. Some of these sellers would fondly say ‘na mumu dey go boutique’ because they strongly believe you have no reason to go and buy what you can have cheap.

“You can go to the Katangowa Market with N5,000 and return with a Ghana must go full of variety of clothes. “When you wash them, starch and iron them, they will be appreciated by boutique owners. If you don’t tell anyone how and where you got them, no one will know,” said a seller, Ahmadu

•Katangowa market

Usman.

However, the good thing about shopping is being able to buy a good item at a cheap price. But one still has to be very careful in order not to select torn clothes or clothes with stubborn stains.

There are no age restrictions at the market; both the young and old visit the market, seeking what best they can buy with their money.

Every Thursday, as instructed by the Lagos State Government, the environmental sani-

•School items

When schools are in session, there is huge demand for school items, but when on vacation the reverse is the case. AZZAN OLAJUMOKE writes

School items not in hot demand yet

A

T a shopping complex in Mile 12 Lagos, where various items are sold, only two customers werein a school item shop; some had no customer at all.

Mrs Saidat Adesina, who sells at the complex said sales are poor because schools are not in session “The location of our shops is great and the activities that take place around here usually should attract shoppers’ patronage.

A shop attendant, Mr Ayoola Jegede, said “We are not making sales at all and customers are not coming. It is usually like this when schools are on vacation. But when they begin to prepare to resume a new academic session, I will be singing a new

song.”

Also a shop owner, Mrs Modina Adekoya, said: “Now we have decided to add other items such as pure water to what we sell, so that we can at least earn a living this period. Sometimes, I might not find a customer a whole day, I would then pray to God to direct customers to me.”

For Mrs Amudat Adeyeni: “Sales have not been so bad. I get customers everyday though not as many as I ordinarily would have when sales is booming. As you can see I am watching a movie instead of selling my items. That is to tell you that I am idle and so are all of us selling school items,” she said.

•School items

tation is observed in the market; you are therefore sure of a clean environment while you shop.

Sunday is the only day of the week when very few traders and shoppers visit the market. There are very few activities on Sundays compared to other days.

The market is a place to be, especially when your budget does not meet your demands.

But do not forget to wash your clothes properly to avoid any form of infection.

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

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Brandnews Nutricima’s health walk DAIRY and beverages marketer Nutricima Limited held its Walk for Digestive Health exercise last Saturday.

The walk was from Maryland to Ikeja bus stop and back to Maryland.

Nutricima officials said the walk was part of the activities marking the launch of Yo Classic Yoghurt in the market. Yo Classic Yoghurt was launched in Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt last month with endorsements from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control and the Nutrition Society of Nigeria.

The walk was part of the Yo Community Service initiative on digestive health and one of several activities planned to last over a 90-day period across Lagos State.

The activities include fitness walk and the deployment of professional medical practitioners to all nooks and crannies of the state to enlighten residents on healthy consumption and lifestyles while also rendering free medical services to all who desire, particularly the indigent.

The Yo Community Service Initiative on Digestive Health is slated for about a dozen locations in Lagos State. It will end in November 2012.

YO Natural is made from live yoghurt cultures, giving you the ultimate yoghurt experience. Yo Yogurt has a lot of benefits: it aids digestion, has calcium and protein.

• From left: Product Marketing, Home Entertainment Division, LG Electronics Mr James Odejimi; Mr Nelson Eke (winner); Business Solution Manager, Mr Sunny Bangera and Mr Haitham Hoballah of Fouani Nigeria Limited, during the LG Cinema 3D Game Festival in Port Harcourt.

Winner emerges in game festival

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WINNER has emerged at the LG Cinema 3D Game Festival in the Port Harcourt zone. The winner, Mr Nelson Eke, a 23 year-old Geology student of the University of Port Harcourt, went home with the star prize of a 55-inch LG 3D Smart TV, after scaling the various stages of the contest held at the Genesis Deluxe Cinema in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

The LG Cinema 3D Game Festival, organised by LG Electronics, is aimed at showcasing the capabilities of its 3D products in the gaming environment.

The event mirrored the energy and excitement from over 200 combatants, decked in 3D glasses, all staring at the 3D smart TV screens, and slugging it out. That number was later trimmed down to 64 par-

Stories by Raji Rotimi Solomon

ticipants from which the finalists emerged; and like in a real battle field, the anxiety was intense and only abated at the emergence of the winner.

The 3D Game Festival tagged “LG 3D Wars” attracted participants from around Port Harcourt and neighbouring cities.

The competition first berthed in Nigeria in May, 2012 in Lagos, where it was held for over two days at two venues.

The General Manager, Home Entertainment Division, LG Electronics, Mr Dave Shin, said: “A similar event which took place in Lagos a couple months ago was a huge success and because the Port Harcourt market is very important to us, we decided to make Port Harcourt the next point of

call,” said Mr. Dave Shin, General Manager, Home Entertainment division, LG Electronics.

He added: “Hearing about the high quality of our 3D TV is one thing, seeing it in action is quite another.

LG is currently the only company offering a 3D experience on such a wide variety of products.”

The ultimate gamer, Eke, said: “I am highly appreciative of the efforts of LG Electronics in putting together such a mind-blowing event. I feel excited to have won this event.”

Visitors to LG’s booth during the festival played some of the newest 3D games from Blizzard and experienced 3D action on Microsoft’s XBOX Kinect. Utilising LG’s proprietary 2D to 3D conversion technology, all the games were displayed in thrilling 3D.

Boost for education programme

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RIVEN by a passion to help mold a generation of students that would acquire technical specialisation and compete in the global market place, Interswitch is supporting Exposure Robotic League, an educational programme, as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) drive.

The programme exposes secondary school students to computer programming, robot design and construction.

Explaining the rationale behind the programme, Mr Mitchell Elegbe, its Managing Director/CEO, said the decision to support the programme was borne out of the company’s passion for educational development and entrepreneurial pursuit, which

is in line with its CSR goals.

According to him, “the educational system in the country places emphasis on memorisation of topics taught in order to pass examinations. As such, students forget all they have learnt once the examinations are over and, this does not add any value to the students beyond the attainment of grades.”

This initiative encourages students to apply classroom knowledge to real world scenarios, thereby ensuring that the knowledge is part of them and can be applied to every area in life.

Elegbe said supporting the programme offered the company an opportunity to give back and help nurture future leaders in their prime, so they can fulfill their dreams. It

provides them with an edge to compete globally with their counterparts.

The six-week intense summer programme follows the standard of the US-based First Robotics League.

Its impact ranges from critical thinking, problem solving, computer programming, robotic design and construction, applied math and physics, leadership to teamwork, communication, creativity among others. The programme also exposes the students to a series of comprehensive robotics engineering programme.

Interswitch has supported several CSR initiatives that promote educational development in Nigeria.

Some of these initiatives are Students In Free Enterprise (SIFE), Leap Africa and Exposure Robotic League.

St Remy Brandy’s night jam

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HE move for consumer satisfaction through entertainment and night groove by French finest Brandy St Remy started sometime ago. The last St Remy Gbedu jam stormed Ikeja, using Vegas as its base. The tale of the Vegas night jam is still on the lips of attendees and fresh in the memories of night life lovers, as they were treated to latest Naija jams.

Over the years, St Remy has established itself as one of the best liquor brand in the country, with its distinct taste and finesse. These attributes have made it the most sort-after brand by liquor lovers, and the loyalty of consumers is undaunted.

St Remy Gbedu night jam stormed Ipaja on August 31, berthing at the popular Havanah Hotels and Suites. Following the massive publicity on Trace TV, Naija FM and the success of the last night jams at Vegas, the attendance at this edition was good.

From the Black Carpet session that flagged off around 10pm on Friday, guests were ushered in by ladies clad in a black and white stripe top with black mini skirt and white, knee-length shoes.

Setting the the tone for the event was Havanah’s home disc jockey, while a football match was in progress. The match was between Chelsea Football Club and

Athletico Madrid. The party went into full swing shortly after the football match.

DJAtte of Naija FM soon took over from the home DJ. He thrilled the audience with his mixings.

St Remy brandy and Irish cream dominated the tables, no doubt the blend of fine brandy and good music gave a classy touch to the event.

A regular club goer and faithful of St Remy, Segun Akinola, commended the organisation of the night jam, stating that he was at the last one held at Vegas.

He said: “I thought the last one was the bomb and nothing could beat it, but this party here certainly beat that one.”

Recharge card vendor wins Airtel promo A RECHARGE card seller is among the newest set of millionaires that include an electrician, drivers, students, retirees, traders, pharmacists, bankers, students and a pastor among others that won in the justconcluded Airtel Free Millionaire promo.

The prize presentation for the promo was held last Friday simultaneously at the Airtel Head Office in Lagos and other offices across the six geo-political zones.

Beside the millionaires, thousands of others won the latest Samsung Galaxy Tab 7.0 Reloaded tablets bundled with free 200MB of data.

The mega promotion which began nationwide on April 17, 2012 produced over 70 customers who won N1 million each and more than 1,000 others who smiled home with the latest Samsung Smartphone wonder – the Samsung Galaxy Tabs.

Speaking at the presentation , Airtel Nigeria’s Chief Operating Officer and Executive Director, Deepak Srivastava, said: “Changing peoples’ lives through impactful telecommunications services and offerings remain our commitment, which is in line with our promise to Nigerians on commencement of operations two years ago.

“The mega promo was another channel for us to show appreciation to our esteemed customers for their loyalty to our brand. Today, we have kept our promise to raise millionaires and give out top of the range communications gadget to others. We know that that the winnings would not only benefit the winners alone but will spill-over to other family members and loved ones because with today’s empowerment, school fees shall be paid, new businesses created and old ones expanded,” he said.

Judges for Etisalat prize for innovation award ETISALAT has announced members of its judging panel that will decide winners of the most-innovative mobile broadband product or service in Africa at the first edition of the Etisalat prize for innovation. The panel will be chaired by Steven Evans, CEO, Etisalat with Bill Best, former CTO of GSM Association and co-chair of judges.

Others are Usen Udoh, Senior Director at Accenture Nigeria; Chukwuemeka Afigbo, Head of Developer Outreach across Africa for Google, Ken Banks, founder of Kiwanja.net; Sim Shagaya, founder and CEO of DealDey and Konga.Com along and Tayo Oviosu, founder and CEO of Pagatech.

Announcing the judges, Evans said: “The aim of the Etisalat prize for innovation is to encourage and celebrate valuable innovation for driving or facilitating mobile broadband use in the Africa market. Having some of these notable professionals in different fields as judges will further encourage and reward corporate organisations; small and growing businesses as well as individuals who are constantly making efforts to develop mobile broadband solutions and platforms in Africa”.

Each of the judge’s experience and knowledge of the telecommunications industry will make them valuable assets, as they will recognise the best individual or organisation with the most innovative broadband products and services.

Entries for the award closed yesterday.

Noah’s Ark’s chief joins jury AGAIN, Noah’s Ark Communications has recorded another milestone achievement in the global advertising landscape with the nomination of its Creative Director, Bolaji Alausa, as one of the three top Creative Directors selected across the globe to serve as Jury in the Luezer’s Archive’s International Students Ad contest.

According to a blog post by the Editor of Luezer’s Archive (http:// www.luerzersarchive.net/content/show/id/53747), Bolaji Alausa is the only African among the three Judges which also has Francisco Vaile from Brazil and Ben Gough, Leo Burnett, London saddled with the responsibilities to review and adjudicate the entries for the contest to ascertain the deserving eventual winners.

Luezer’s Archive is a worldwide Advertising Archive that is globally regarded as the ‘Bible’ of Advertising. The Archive is published monthly in which all creative Advertising Agencies across the globe have equal opportunities to enter their works for considerations. Out of the thousands of entries received, only 70 best works are published.

Speaking on the development, the Managing Director, Noah’s Ark Communications, Mr Lanre Adisa, described Alausa’s nomination as another milestone achievement for the company and an endorsement of the creative ability of the Creative Director and the Agency as a whole.

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

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F

ROM driver to director! That describes the amazing trajectory of Mr Emeka John’s life. Barely days ago, the native of Anambra was just a driver, barely eking out a living conveying granites to various parts of the country. Today, he is a millionaire courtesy of the 2012 edition of Star TV Game Show.

This year’s edition of Star TV Game, Nigeria’s most exciting game show, kicked off with much aplomb. If the early indications are anything to go by, then it promises to be another season of fun and excitement.

Twenty-one millionaires are expected to emerge from the game show, which is sponsored by Nigerian Breweries, makers of premium lager beer, Star, over a period of seven weeks. The first batch of millionaires emerged recently and for John Emeka and the two other millionaires, Agbochukwu Emeka and David Smith, it is just tales of joy.

According to John Emeka, his recent change in fortune was occasioned by the birth of his son two weeks ago. “Two weeks ago, I had my second child who turned out to be a bouncing baby boy. I know that the child brought me this luck of winning N1 million,” he said, unbelief still imprinted on his face after he received his prize money.

“My wife will be so happy and I can’t wait for my new life to begin,” he added.

New life, indeed! Emeka’s days of toiling as an employee are over. So, he said: “I can’t wait to begin my new lease of life as the owner of my own business. I am going to add some money to this N1 million and purchase a new truck. In fact, I am now the director of my own haulage company,” he stated.

John Emeka’s namesake Agbochukwu Emeka, is also delirious with joy following the N1 million, he also won on the same day. For him, a first year student of the Enugu State University of Science and Technology, ESUT, the largesse will see his dream of studying abroad come true. “I can’t thank Star enough for this wonderful gift. For years now, I have been trying to go abroad to continue my education but, unfortunately, I couldn’t because of lack of funds. Now, my greatest dream will come to pass with this N1n million that I have won,” he stated.

However, Agbochukwu Emeka will not be spending all that money on his education only. The 22-year-old native of Enugu State said part of the money would also be used in taking care of his family.

How Star made driver, B others millionaires “My brother, I know where I am coming from. We have been going through serious financial constraints in my family. So, I will use some of the money to help out. In fact, I believe that God knows that I really need this money that was why I won the N1 million,” he said Just like Agbochukwu Emeka, David Smith, who runs a boutique in Abuja, does not intend to use all the money on himself.

The Abia State native intends to be his brother’s keeper by helping his brother who is an aspiring musician kick-start his career. “My business is certainly going to receive a boost with this money that has come my way. But I will also ensure that I help my brother who wants to be a musician. He is a very talented lad but, because of lack of funds, he has not been able to do much about his career. Now, with this money, he will surely get the opportunity to live his dream,” Smith added.

The three million naira largesse did not come easy for the three men. The trio was part of the Star drinkers that were randomly selected in bars. While John Emeka was selected at his Benin base, Agbochukwu Emeka got the chance to participate in the game show in Enugu where he resides while David Smith was selected from Abuja where he lives. The three winners were grouped into one of the three groups to participate in the game against two other groups in specially adapted games for the Star TV Game Show. John Emeka, Agbochukwu Emeka and David Smith went head-to-head against two other teams in the game show.

With the first set of three millionaires in the bag, the focus will be on the next set of millionaires that will emerge in the following weeks.

Potential participants are recruited from bars across the countries that are found drinking premium lager beer, Star. They will participate in a series of raffle draws which will earn winners not only instant prizes but participants for the game show will also be drawn via raffle draws.

• Faces of the winners in the ongoing Star Gameshow.

RANDS need social media. Social media - web and mobile-based technologies such as Facebook, Twitter, Tumbler, LinkedIn and BBM and others that readily turn any message into interactive dialogue among individuals in a community, organisation or a country - does not need brands. On the contrary, brands need social media.

According to recent reports, this year, social media is one of the most powerful news and updates sources. Because of this and similar reports, brands desperately need social media to be successful, to be social media savvy, to connect with grassroots, to sell their goods, and to be successful.

Brand managers have these reports and they do understand that, in the 21st century where technology has blurred marketing boundaries, no brand succeeds on its own. In addition to the traditional media, brands need the efficacious power of social media.

Reason: brands jostle for the attention of several millions of individuals who populate the social media scene. Brands need the attention and wallets of these people, as such; brand custodians would play all games, through different marketing gimmicks, to grab their targets.

Some of these games include asking you to download free cool logo and use it as a screen saver, new singles of a popular musician; or if that fails to deliver the number, you are enticed to record and upload your own music on a particular site to win a particular gift, or get opportunity to mingle, giggle and wriggle. “Catch the fun while it lasts!” The brands scream in ecstasy. That is the catch.

Guess what, the target, mostly youths, believe this sweet-sounding words hook, line and sinker. Who wins? It is not the target.

The brands win. That is why the brands keep going back to the social media space to recruit ardent fans, raving fans to fan the embers of their brands. Do not blame them.

Much of the space on social media is free.

However, that is the main reason brands need the social media. No, it is not only that, some brands have limitless pocket.

I think the bottomless pocket of some of these brands (and the social juice they can get) attracts them to social media circle. This (bottomless pocket) gives brands opportunity to acquire social media muscle and bask in the social juice it brings.

This used to be the exclusive preserves of the traditional media [newspaper, magazines, television and radio], but not any more, not any more, not any more. If a campaign breaks and it does not hit your Facebook page, it does not hit your Twitter handle, it does not hit your BBM anonymously, such campaign has not gone viral. If it has not gone viral, it has not succeeded. If it has not succeeded, it has failed.

Ask a social media-savvy brand manager.

That is the power of social media platform.

In addition to this is the ability to connect with the target at an emotional level and hit their passion points and create a hero out of a zero; generate emotion and keep it in motion, create meaningful content and be in contact, engineer powerful engagement and keep the arrangement, sustain interest and build large followers.

If you look at it with 20/20 eyesight, it is clear that social media allows the brands to set up infrastructure for their target and make the connection that makes the biggest difference (like the ones described above. I am sure you must have participated in one or two social media games).

The birth of BlackBerry, different web-based

Hook, line and social media applications platform and social sites have provided canvasses brands to tell their stories, to promote their ideas and be all to all people.

That is why brands would always be grateful to social media dais.

As social software that mediates human and brands communication, social media is the only platform that brands can flaunt their social juice, as it gives brands relevance, responsibility and recall, all year round, twenty-fourseven. Therefore, if a platform stays and sleeps with you that long, you are wont to believe everything it says hook, line and social media.

As Internet-based applications that allow the creation and exchange of user-generated content, social media also packs extreme believability. This is where Cynthia Osokogu comes in. Cynthia made that same mistake of believing the content of her BBM. Cynthia was a victim of social media mistrust. Save the gory details.

You remember her. Great. My job is not to regurgitate the ordeal she went through but to save a soul, by preventing a reoccurrence.

That Cynthia paid the ultimate price does not mean the social media platform is evil.

It is just prove that majority of social media fans are gullible. They would believe every twit. They would believe every ping. They would believe every contact. That makes them vulnerable to physical, viral and fraudulent attacks.

Kindly note, social media platform is a social gathering of friends and acquaintances.

Invariably, this indicates that you could meet genuine friends, strike legitimate business deal or find your bride while chatting in some professional chat rooms. On the other hand, social media space can be likened to clubbing.

In a restaurant, you could make new friends that would last a lifetime, meet a dupe, or be swindled by a woman who happens to be smarter than you are! Does that make clubbing evil? Answer to that question is not available on this page.

What you would get here is this: brands look for critical mass to strike the numbers, the critical mass are available on social media space, and brand custodians would do all to lick those numbers. If you have a Twitter handle, Facebook page, BBM or LinkedIn profile, look out. If the message it too good to be true, and you cannot authenticate the source, it is too good. Delete it. Ignore it. Watch who you follow. Follow whom you watch. As my mother would say, keep to well-lit streets after dark.

Be careful with your BBM. Know your pings.

This is not a revelation. It is a reminder. In her wildest dream, Cynthia would never think those pings are death messengers. She was innocent. She was blameless. However, she has offered a great lesson on how not to deal with BBM contacts: Not every contact should be contacted. Not every contact has a contact address. Be wary of contact who insists on physical contact, unless you are sure.

If you are not sure, delete the contact.

Several social media contacts hide under aliases. Aliases are guises. Guises are masks.

Masks hide dirt. Dirt tells bad story. Bad story is bad. Ask questions. Probe aliases. Be social media-wise. Have fun. Life is short. Do not shorten it further. Remember Cynthia.

For social media addicts, happy pinging. For Cynthia, adieu.

‘Guess what, the target, mostly youths, believe this sweet-sounding words hook, line and sinker. Who wins? It is not the target. The brands win. That is why the brands keep going back to the social media space to recruit ardent fans, raving fans to fan the embers of their brands. Do not blame them. Much of the space on social media is free. However, that is the main reason brands need the social media. No, it is not only that, some brands have limitless pocket’

*Editor - Wale Alabi *Consulting Editors - Rarzack Olaegbe, Sola Fanawopo * Correspondent-Jimi David * Business Development - Kenny Hussain * Legal Adviser - Olasupo Osewa & Co Brandweek is powered by Brandz Republic Consulting and published every Friday in THE NATION newspaper.

All correspondence to the editor - 0808.247.7806, 0805.618.0040, e-mail: korede2000@gmail.com © All rights reserved.

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

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SOCIETY It was a sorrowful moment at the Archbishop Vinning Memorial Church Cathedral, Ikeja, Lagos, during the funeral of the Chief Executive Officer, Nuga Fabrics and Nuga Pearl Estate, Mrs Rachael Bolanle Adenuga. ABIKE ADEGBULEHIN writes.

T

EARS rolled uncontrollably down the cheeks of many at the Ikoyi Vaults and Garden who gathered for the interment of the remains of the late Mrs Rachael Bolanle Adenuga, the CEO of Nuga group of companies, last week.

People from far and near joined the family to pay their final respect.

She died in July at 71.

‘Eye Mi’ as the late Mrs Adenuga was called by her parents in her childhood days, was a woman of many parts. Until her death she was a member of various professional bodies, including the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Trade, Ife Chambers of Commerce and Trade, Nigerian Association of Travel Agents and Zonta International. In the social circle, the late Mrs Adenuga was the Yeye Meso of Ife; Yeye Oba of Ifon Osun; the Otun Lika of Ijebu-Igbo; the Oloromeye of Ado-Ekiti and the Yeye-Otunba of Irolu.

She was also honoured with awards including the Key of the City of Gary, Indiana by Mayor Barnes; Key to the City of Dallas, Texas and the key to the City of Louiselle, Kentucky.

It was no surprise then that the seats of the Archbishop Vinning Memorial Church Cathedral, Ikeja, Lagos could not contain the guests who graced the funeral service.

Gaily dressed, they could not wait for the service to begin before turning the expansive church auditorium to a Mecca of sort. Even before the service, the church was filled with dignitaries who watched while the priest received the remains of Mrs Adenuga.

The programme printed for her Order of Service could be mistaken for a text book, filled with memories from her youth to her last birthday.

The processional hymn, O Holy Saviour, was sung by the choir as the casket bearing the body was laid in front of the church.

The Psalm was read by Mrs. Aderonke Ibirogba, the deceased’s first daughter while the Bible reading from the book of 1 Thessalonians 4: 13-18 was taken by her son, Dr Babafemi Adenuga before the Dean of the Cathedral, Venerable James Odedeji mounted the podium.

In his address, Ven Odedeji urged the congregation not to see Mrs Adenuga’s death as a set back or an end of the love and joy she radiated but as God’s perfect will.

“No matter what, God has a perfect timing for everything that happens in our lives.

I am sure we all know that Mama has lived a good life in the church and outside the church, she always had a good heart towards people, irrespective of who they are. I pray that God will raise her to perfection in the company of the saints,” he said.

The recessional Hymn The Day Thou Gaveth Lord is Ended was rendered as the body was taken for burial by the undertakers.

Her body arrived at the Ikoyi Vaults and Garden at 1:21pm and was lowered into the ground at about 1:50pm.

While performing the dust-todust exercise, the deceased’s only son, Dr Adenuga read a tribute in an emotion-laden voice.

At some point, his emotion betrayed him and burst into tears. His siblings too could not stop tears flowing from their eyes.

“Having you as a mum, growing up was such a blessing for me and my siblings. Even though you were strict and quick to react anytime we misbehave, you really set the foundation for our future, which we have come to realise.

“I am grateful and will not trade this for silver or gold or anything more precious. Your legacy will live on forever. You are a mother with a difference, an icon of el-

Farewell to an 'icon of elegance' •From left: The deceased’s children, Ronke Igbiragbo; Bimpe Adesina; Bukola Adenuga; Babafemi Adenuga; Ayo Adenuga and Morolake Hammond

•Dr Fayemi

•JK Randle

•Otunba Adebayo and Former Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Alhaja Lateefat Ojikutu

•Gen Alani Akinrinade and his wife

•Chief Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi (left) and Prof Wale Omole

•Mrs Udenwa

•Pastor Femi Paul

•Pa and Mrs Omidiora

egance and ageless beauty, one whose smiles exuded joy, and whose laughter filled the room.”

Though guests were too shocked to speak with journalists but their tributes said it all.

First on the line was the Ooni of Ife Oba Okunade Sijuwade who described her as an elegant daughter of Yorubaland.

Oba Sijuwade said she was an educationist, a cultural aficionado and a shrewd businesswoman with great administrative and entrepreneurial abilities.

According to the royal father, the late Mrs Adenuga contributed in no small measure to the development of Ile-Ife in various ways.

“Even as a university student, forced to flee the war zone of the eastern part of Nigeria to complete her education at the prestigious University of Ife, now Obafemi Awolowo University, she was a great business woman, irrepressible and vivacious.

“It is gratifying to note that it was here in Ile-Ife that she met her husband of blessed memory, Prof Adegbesan Adenuga, a lecturer at the same university.

“For over a decade, she served the youth of Ile-Ife, teaching English at the Oduduwa College, Modakeke High School, Ile-Ife, before she rose to Vice-Principal, Ife High School and Principal, Ife Community High

School,” the monarch wrote in his tribute.

Wife of the former Governor of Imo State Mrs Theresa Udenwa described the deceased as “our elegant stallion - “Yeye Meso of Ife”.

Mrs Udenwa said she was “a lady of many beautiful parts, whose generosity knew no bound, whose business astuteness could not easily be rivalled and whose elegance and beauty even at 71 could only be imagined.”

No doubt, Mrs Adenuga’s kindness and generosity will continue to linger in their memory.

Guests later teamed up with the family at the Landmark Water Corporation Road, Victoria Island, for

the reception.

The hall, which was decorated in purple and white, complemented the Asoebi of white lace and purple headgear worn by guests.

Guests included Ekiti State Governor Dr Kayode Fayemi; his predecessors Otunba Niyi Adebayo and Segun Oni; Oba Sijuwade was represented by one of his wives, Olori Ladun Sijuwade; former Chief of Defence Staff General Alani Akinrinade; former Obafemi Awolowo University Vice-Chancellor Prof Wale Omole; SilverBird Group chief Guy Murray-Bruce; MTN Regional Manager Deola Bamboye and many others.

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THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

SOCIETY

•Odoba of Ado-EkitiChief Alex Olu-Ajayi

•Oba Adejugbe chatting with Mrs Olayinka at the ceremony

•Prof Ibrahim

•Dr Sarki

•The Oluyin of Iyin-Ekiti, Oba Ademola Ajakaye and another monarch at the event

A festival with panache The annual Udiroko Festival in Ado-Ekiti, as expected, attracted an army of indigenes and dignitaries from far and near penultimate Tuesday.

SULAIMAN SALAWUDEEN was at the palace of the Ewi of AdoEkiti, Oba Adeyemo Adejugbe, venue of the event.

I

T was an opportunity for indigenes of the town resident in the state, within Nigeria and other places to meet and assess its attainments in the outgoing year and to consolidate on the progress.

Men and women across religions, professions and political divides stormed the palace of the Ewi as early as 12 noon, in their best outfits.

It was the annual Udiroko, Ado people’s prime festival and traditional New Year Day. It was held in Ado-Ekiti, capital Ekiti State, penultimate Tuesday amidst fanfare.

The traditional venue of the event, the palace of Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Oba Adeyemo Adejugbe, Aladesanmi III, bubbled all through the event.

It could have been mistaken for a competition of traditional caps and head ties as scores of men and women came in various styles.

Many arrived early to secure spaces on the rows of seats neatly arranged under canopies.

Unlike last year’s, controlling the hordes

•Members of Egbe Omo Ewi at the ceremony

of indigenes and visitors, who came even as early as 10am, was a challenge to the security personnel.

Despite the alert security officers, the crowd surged back and forth hours before the ceremony took off properly about 2:pm.

Not a few among the crowd might have considered bribing or even bribed their way through the lines of well-kitted uniformed officers, who mounted sentinel at the massive gates of the palace to control the everbubbling crowd and forestall any breakdown of order.

About noon on the day, various traditional groups from familiar and less-familiar Yoruba deities were dressed in trademark outfits of their groups, dancing and singing as they approached the palace.

One such was Orisa Ojido (Ojido deity), said to be the head of all deities in Ado Kingdom among which is Orisa Osun (Osun deity) represented by Princess Olusola Ayodele, an indigene of the town and an Osun priestess, who came for the festival from Bayelsa State.

Amid the canons which may have boomed about a thousand times were persistent renditions of classical Ekiti songs by three stationary groups within the sprawling palace complex.

They were supported by other roving bands who sparsely flavoured auditory reception all day at the palace.

Sitting down under the covered enclosures were various classes of ranking communities and traditional chiefs distinguished in their uniformed apparels. They were joined by a legion of dignitaries who radiated class and authority.

As they sat in groups, one could distinguish one community from the other: The Elumo Chiefs; Agba Oke Ewi; Agba Odo Ado; Oke Ila Chiefs; Omo Owa Chiefs; Elegbe Chiefs; The Elerinmarun oke Ewi; The Traditional Policemen (Efas); The Egbe Omo Ewi; and several others.

Among the dignitaries were the state Deputy Governor, Mrs Funmi Olayinka, who represented Governor Kayode Fayemi;

•

•Prof Adelabu

Senator Babafemi Ojudu, Ekiti Central Senatorial District representative at the National Asembly; Speaker of the state House of As•Continued on page 39

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

39

SOCIETY

Love at home, honour in New York

T

•Mrs Akindele-Oloyede and Makun (AY) at the event

HE seventh annual Nigerian Entertainment Awards night was held at the New York University Skirball Performing Arts Centre, in New York City.

Among dignitaries were Don Jazzy, Uche Jombo, Julius Agwu, Juliet Ibrahim, and many other artistes.

The hosts, FunkeAkindele-Oloyede and Ayo Makun (A.k.a AaY), the comedian, kept a lively atmosphere as they ushered in performers, such as Waje, Davido, Brymo, Ice Prince, Vector, and eLDee to name a few.

The EME crew, Banky W, Wiz Kid, and Skales, who were in attendance, brought the show to a close, with actor and singer Rotimi joining them on stage to perform songs from their latest album.

After the EME performance, as is the tradi-

•Juliet Ibrahim and a guest

•Uche Jombo (left) and another celebrity

•Hon Funmilola Adeyemo, Secretary of Ado Local Government and members of Erukulele Youths at the festival •Continued from page 38

sembly Hon Adewale Omirin; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr. Yemi Adaramodu and the Oluyin of Iyin-Ekiti, Oba Ademola Ajakaye.

Others were members of the state Executive Council led by Secretary to the State Government Alhaji Ganiyu Owolabi; and Chairperson, Ekiti State Universal Basic Education Commission Prof Modupe Adelabu.

Governor of Niger State Dr Babangida Aliyu was represented by Dr Peter Sarki, Commissioner for Lands in the state while the Vice- Chancellor, University of Jos was represented by Professor Musa Ibrahim (Deputy Vice- Chancellor, Admin).

The amphitheatre within the palace opposite the tents, hosted the general class of visitors who defied the scorching sun to witness it all.

As the day wore on and after the monarch had mounted the throne sometime between 3 and 4:pm, the chiefs and other groups in the town took turns to pay homage to the paramount ruler of Ado Kingdom. While paying obeisance to the revered royalty, they harvested blessings from the Oba who waved the royal horsetail all through, in acknowledgment of greetings from various subjects and groups.

From Adeola Oladele-Fayehun, New York

tion of the NEA Awards, all actors, artistes, industry executives, among others, were brought on stage and treated to a standing ovation by the audience before dancing out to officially close the show.

Among the recipients at the occasion include Wiz Kid (Best Album Of The Year); Davido (Hottest Single Of The Year); Awon Boyz (Best US-based Artist Of The Year); Flavour (Best Indigenous Artist/Group); Wale Ojo (Phone Swap) - Best Actor (Film); Funke Akindele (Troj) - Best Actress (Film); Kunle Afolayan (Phone Swap) - Best Film Director; Ali Baba - Best Comedian; Majid Michel (Somewhere In Africa) - Pan African Actor and Yvonne Okoro (Single Six) Pan African Actress).

A festival with panache As names of each community and distinguished groups were called, they came out, prostrated or knelt, depending on sex, while the Oba in turn dished benedictions upon benedictions on subjects who studiously respected ancient royalty, a phase which lasted nearly two hours.

The Oja’ba Market, opposite the palace, was on. But for the duration of the event it receded in significance as potential buyers and sellers were drawn into participating, even if ocularly, at an event which halted the entire town on that historic day.

In her brief comments, the Mrs Olayinka noted that the government was focused on the task of transforming the state for the better.

She said the age of vacant and half-hearted promises to the people without proofs by politicians who lacked scruples had come to an end.

The current administration, the Deputy Governor said, would invest in all that is possible and achievable to “walk its talk.”

Appealing to the monarch to sustain his support for the administration, Mrs Olayinka said the administration was really focused on transforming Ado-Ekiti into a “real state capi-

tal.”

According to her: “We are focused on delivering promises made during our electioneering campaigns. Ours is not a government that talks alone. We also walk the talk.”

Mrs Olayinka thanked the governor for the prime attention given to the state capital.

In his comments, President of Ado Progressive Union (APU) Agbaakin Obafemi Ojo appealed for the intervention of notable indigenes to rescue the union from stifling financial straits.

Ojo noted that, recently, the APU planned and successfully brought together sons and daughters of the town from Lagos, Ibadan, Ife, Abuja, Port Harcourt and all other places, which enabled them to discuss issues of concern.

In a very brief address at the ceremony, Hon Omirin expressed readiness to continue to support the state government in its noble drive to institute useful changes in the polity.

He donated N500,000 to support the town towards the completion of the amphitheatre.

Just a little after five in the evening, the much-awaited voice of the monarch, Oba Adejugbe, rang out from the throne, causing

•Osun Priestess, Princess Olusola Ayodele

instant cessation of noise in the arena.

Speaking on the performance of the state government, cribed Governor Fayemi as “pragmatic, committed and purposeful”, noting that the ongoing “massive urban renewal and road construction in Ado-Ekiti are direct incentive for investments.”

Oba Adejugbe observed that since AdoEkiti became the capital in 1996, the influx of people has been massive, having a direct bearing on demands for land, which has made unscrupulous elements to trade with others’ lands.

He urged indigenes to set up in-family committees to monitor and manage their lands “in such a way that unnecessary land dispute can be avoided.”

Just as stated in a media chat with journalists before the event, some traditional games were held and winners. Ayo Eyebiokin won in Ayo Olopon. He went home with a giant size standing fan.

Winners of the Ewi’s Cup Football competition were announced. There were other competitions in which various prices were won.

The event was wrapped up with the MTN Gala Night; and Princes and Princesses.

The monarch expressed the hope that the Udiroko would soon become what Argungu is to Kebbi and Ojude Oba to the Ijebu.

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

40

SOCIETY Oba-Akoko, an ancient town in Akoko South Local Government, Area of Ondo State, was agog last Saturday when Oba Nurudeen Adeniyi Adegoroye I, the Oloba of Oba-Akoko, marked his 80th birthday. The monarch also celebrated the 40th anniversary of his ascension to the throne. DAMISI OJO was there.

Double celebration for Octogenarian monarch I

T was a gathering of the elite, politicians and royal fathers. They converged on Oba-Akoko in Akoko Southwest Area of Ondo State where Oba Nurudeen Adeniyi Adegoroye I, celebrated his 80th birthday and 40 years on the throne.

As early as 10am, guests from far and wide started gathering for the event.

A prominent son of Okeluse in Ose Local Government Area of the state, Mr Emmauel Fasaanu and his wife, Felicia, were also installed as the Bobagunwa and Yeye Bobagunwa of Oba-Akoko Kingdom on the occasion.

The indigenes honoured Oba Adegoroye by renaming Ikun Road to Oba Nurudeen Adeniyi Adegoroye Road, Oba-Akoko.

Chairman of the Organising Committee Chief Raheem Ahmadu said the town has been having it good under Oba Adegoroye.

He said: “He has invested all the available resources even personal to him for the benefit and progress of Oba-Akoko. To this end, the Organising Committee in conjunction with the Oloba-in-Council has decided on behalf of Oba-Akoko community to rename Ikun Road. Henceforth, Ikun Road will be referred to as Oba Alhaji Nurudeen Adeniyi Adeniyi Adegoroye Road, Oba-Akoko.

Though this compensation is small to appreciate him, it is only God that can adequately compensate him.”

He praised indigenes for their unalloyed support in ensuring the monarch has a successful reign.

Oba Adegoroye said the event was very unique because he ascended the throne of his forefathers at 40 and had spent another 40 years on the throne.

The monarch stressed that it is also the first time in the history of the town that all indigenes of the community will celebrate with him.

Oba Adegoroye said: “When I ascended the throne 40 years years ago, I met a situation without clearly defined goals and procedures predicated on individual and sectional interest.

“My first assignment was to fashion out acceptable and achievable communal goals and formulate principles of achieving the goal as well as putting virile structures in place as vehicles of realising our communal goals and aspirations.”

The monarch said the first few steps in developing the community was the establishment of the Oba-Akoko Development Council with the sole responsibility of bringing development to the community in all ramifications.

He noted that his reign succeeded in establishing Oludaye Grammar School, a police station, electrification of the town and mobilising human and natural resources, hence, the town had continued to grow.

He said: “Next was the establishment of Oba-Akoko Council of Chiefs comprising the six high chiefs ( Iwarefa-mefa) and other chiefs, baale, community leaders, who meet

•Oba Adegoroye and his wife, Emilola

regularly and hold the town general meeting once a month.”

Other achievements are: establishment and reopening of Oyinle High School, construction and redesigning of Oloba Market (Oja lede), establishment of a maternity centre and inauguration of modern health centre with wards, physical expansion of the town: establishment of a customary court and building of community hall tagged (Bibiresanmi hall).

The traditional ruler lamented the widespread criminal activities in the peaceful agrarian ancient town, stressing that the hoodlums who are not indigenes of the town are using the town as a hiding place to perpetrate evil on the highways and within the town.

He pleaded to the Inspector General of Police (IG) to upgrade the community police station to a divisional police station where more arms and manpower abound.

The monarch appealed to all indigenes both home and abroad to always come home and work for the development of the town.

He urged them to remember that east or west, home is the best.

Dignitaries who graced the event were the Deputy Governor’s wife, Alhaja Bejide Olanusi, who represented the Governor; former Governor of the state Dr Olusegun Agagu; his brother and former Chief of Staff [COS] Femi; the State Commissioner for Women Affairs Mrs Olayinka Alabi; representatives of Omo N’Oba of Benin kingdom, Akpolokpolo Oba Erediauwa, and traditional rulers in Akoko land, among others.

INDEPENDENCE

•From left: Wife of Deputy Governor Alhaja Bejide Olanusi; Chairperson of the ocassion, Mrs Margret Hassan and Mrs Alabi

•Representatives of Oba of Benin Kingdom

UNION OF LOVEBIRDS Former Miss Nkiru Angela Eze and her beau Pastor Lekan Ilelaboye, during their wedding at Guided Missiles Church, Ikeja, Lagos

•From left: General Manager, Prestige Assurance Plc, Mr Kale; General Secretary, Indian Cultural Association Chief Sanjay Jain and Club Secretary, Mrs Rukhi Mitra, during the India’s Independence Day celebration in Lagos

Germany got to change tactics completely — Low

Mourinho hush on Ronaldo future

J

OSE Mourinho has refused to discuss Cristiano Ronaldo's future at Real Madrid, but Florentino Perez has insisted he does not want to quit.

The Portuguese coach was unhappy when pushed for a response about Ronaldo going public over his unhappiness at the Bernabeu.

After being asked about the issue in his position as coach and general manager, Mourinho stated that he was not keen to say anything about this, but a reported from AS asked again.

"Excuse me, but this interview is quite interesting," he stated when pushed with a second question about Ronaldo..

"I am here to talk about everything and I have responded with in-depth answers and with sincerity.

"But do not ask me about Cristiano. you should understand me. I ask that you do not insist on an answer."

Meanwhile, Perez has tried to play down the reports that Ronaldo wants to leave the reigning La Liga champions.

"If he wanted to leave he'd have said so when the transfer window was still open," president Perez told Marca.

"There are other reasons behind it."

“Mr Abramovich has a rule that anyone over 30 can only be given a one-year extension but it’s madness in Ashley’s case. Everyone knows he’s the best left-back in the world. He trains •Low against attacking sides. We have to attacking football in the past few hard, really looks after himself and can play at be more active when defending years, but the former Stuttgart trainer without the ball. this level for many more years to come. There is determined to take their game to "Everyone has to play their part and isn’t a club in the world who wouldn’t want the next level and play more this gives us quite a lot of work to ermany coach Joachim Low dominant football. do in training but we have to tackle Ashley on a free.”

G

has stressed that the Nationalelf intend to utilise a more pro-active style of play in the upcoming 2014 World Cup qualifiers.

The Euro 2012 semi-finalists impressed with quick counter-

"We will have to completely change our tactics – which used to be, 'if we have the ball we are active, if not we drop back'," Low was quoted as saying on the official UEFA website.

"Our aim in the next months will be to play a high pressing game, even

this now. Before the European Championship there was not enough time."

Germany start their 2014 World Cup qualification campaign with a home game against Faroe Islands on Friday.

Chelsea club insider revealing Ashley Cole may move to another club following a new offer of only one year contract at Stamford Bridge.

Defoe set to lead Egland's attack 42

Friday, September 7, 2012

Ashley Cole may quit Chelsea over contract bust-up A

SHLEY COLE is ready to walk out on Chelsea after only being offered a derisory one-year deal to stay at the club.

The England defender is in the final year of his contract and in January could join another club for FREE. A club insider said: “Mr Abramovich has a rule that anyone over 30 can only be given a one-year extension but it’s madness in Ashley’s case.

“Everyone knows he’s the best left-back in the world.

“He trains hard, really looks after

himself and can play at this level for many more years to come. There isn’t a club in the world who wouldn’t want Ashley on a free.”

Cole, 31, famously left Arsenal in 2006 after claiming he almost ‘crashed his car’ when the Gunners only offered him £55,000 per week.

Now Cole — who is out of England’s game tomorrow in Moldova with an ankle injury — has another contract battle on his hands.

Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho is a huge admirer of his former player and if Cole does quit Paris St

Germain and Zenit St Petersburg would offer mega-money deals.

Cole was willing to see out his career at Stamford Bridge so this has stunned insiders.

And last night there was further evidence that Chelsea are ready to lose Cole when his understudy Ryan Bertrand signed a new fiveyear contract.

Bertrand, 23, has been rewarded for his progress.

He became the first man ever to make his Champions League debut in the final itself in May and made his England last month against Italy.

J

ERMAIN Defoe has told England coach Roy Hodgson that he is capable of leading the attack in the absence of Wayne Rooney and Andy Carroll.

With Rooney sidelined with a gashed thigh and Carroll ruled out with a hamstring injury, Hodgson will have fewer options than he would like when it comes to selecting his forward line for Friday's opening World Cup qualifier in Moldova.

Hodgson has gone with a lone striker in most of his England matches and that doesn't seem the perfect fit for Defoe, whose diminutive stature isn't ideally suited to the physical demands of taking on two imposing centre-backs.

But the injuries mean Hodgson may have no choice but to go with Defoe and the Tottenham forward, who scored a superb goal in England's last match, a 2-1 friendly win over Italy, is convinced he is up to the challenge after playing the same role for his club this season.

"I have been playing the lone striker for my club and I have enjoyed it," Defoe said.

"To be honest •Defoe playing with good players it is not really a problem if people get close.

"It we get to control the game in midfield when we get a chance we have to take it."

Paralympics...Paralympics...Paralympics...Paralympics...

US OPEN...

Peacock battle Pistorius for 100m gold

Federer knocked out in quarters

W

HEN the USA's Paralympic team invited Jonnie Peacock to compete as a guestat their Paralympic trials in July, very little was expected of the 19-year-old from Cambridge, England.

The result of these trials however, has left USA's Jerome Singleton and the legendary "blade runner" Oscar Pistorius something to think about when they settle into their starting blocks in London 2012.

Peacock, who at the age of five contracted meningococcal septicaemia and lost his right leg below the knee, ran a new world record time of 10.85 seconds in the T44 category 100 metres sprint, bettering the previous world record time by 0.06 seconds.

Having achieved so much in such a short span of time, the pressure that rests on Peacock’s shoulders to grab gold at the London 2012 Paralympics appears to be getting greater.

However, if there is something that you should know about Jonnie Peacock, it’s that he is no stranger to performing on the big stage.

The former ballet dancer has represented his school in rugby and football and even played a starring role in his local football team.

The absence of a right leg posed no problem for Jonnie as he continued to impress when he attended a Paralympics GB Talent Identification day at the Mile End Athletics Stadium, competing in the 60 metres sprint.

After being taken under the wing of Paralympics GB, Jonnie went from strength to strength taking gold in the 100 metres at the UK School Games in Cardiff and the Aviva Parallel Success Challenge at Crystal Palace, running times of 12.85 seconds and 13.1 seconds respectively.

Peacock, who in his early running days was embarrassed by his 12+ seconds personal best has acknowledged the dramatic improvement in his performances in the past year: "My personal best last year was 11.47 and less than 48 hours ago it was 11.24, now it's 10.85 and I'm

not stopping there. I'm so excited now to just keep on racing and pushing the boundaries of what an amputee can do."

ROGER Federer's famous forehand was offtarget, and it didn't help matters that his opponent, Tomas Berdych, wasn't missing much.

Eventually it became clear even to Federer that he was going to lose Wednesday night — that for the first time since 2003, he was he not going to participate in the U.S. Open semifinals.

"So many moments, I thought, `Man, it's just not happening for me,'" the 17-time Grand Slam champion said. "It was just a very disappointing match for me."

Able to muster his best shotmaking only occasionally, the top-seeded Federer was stunned by No. 6 Berdych of the Czech Republic 7-6 (1), 6-4, 3-6, 6-3 in the quarterfinals at Flushing Meadows.

It was Berdych's fourth victory in his last seven meetings against Federer, including in the 2010 Wimbledon quarterfinals en route to a runner-up finish to Rafael Nadal at the All England Club.

How did Berdych explain his success against Federer? After all, Berdych never had been past the fourth round at the U.S. Open and was coming off firstround losses at Wimbledon and the London Olympics.

43

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

POLITICS THE NATION

E-mail:- politics@thenationonlineng.net

A controversy is brewing over the ownership of the oil wells to supply crude to the newly commissioned Orient Refinery located in Anambra State. Kogi State Deputy Governor Yomi Awoniyi, who was at Aguileri Otu, last week for the inauguration of the refinery by President Goodluck Jonathan, told journalists that the main oil well that will serve the refinery is located in his state. Correspondent MOHAMMED BASHIR reports.

Kogi is also an oil producing state, says Awoniyi M

ISSION to Anambra State on the inauguration of Orient Refinery I was in Anambra to represent the Kogi State governor, Captain Idris Wada, who was invited by Orient Petroleum Company to be part of the event that was attended to the President Goodluck Jonathan. Besides, we were also invited because Kogi is a major stakeholder in that enterprise.

Kogi’s interest As you know, Orient is operating on OPL 915 and this oil field straddles many states, including Kogi and one of the oil wells that have been explored and capped by ELF that have now been re-developed by Orient is actually in Ibaji Local Government of Kogi State. So, on the strength of that, we felt it was only reasonable as a government that is concerned about the welfare of the people, and actively participating in encouraging private investors, to be here to felicitate with Orient on their success story.

Presidential declaration that Anambra State is oil producing state I don’t see how one can explain that statement. The oil well is in Anambra River basin, which is a very large expanse of land with an overlay of several states on that basin and even that basin has been divided into several OPL, Orient has 915 and 916.

Now, one of the wells is in Kogi State, while other wells are in Anambra and Enugu States. You can drill as many holes as you want in this basin and for every hole you drill, it is a well.

We know that there was a well that was drilled by ELF years ago and capped, which ELF used to call Obisi 1 but ELF left that concession because they felt it was not viable. So, Orient applied to DPR and they were allocated that concession. They developed and named it Anambra River 1. As far as their operation is concerned, they named it as such, but that does not mean that the mere fact that Orient has found oil in Anambra, it has now excluded Kogi State’s claim of being a member of the river basin that has oil as a commodity.

Lingering controversy between Kogi and Anambra States over oil wells There are talks going on. Long before the issue of these oil well, there was a matter that was brought to the attention of the National Boundary Commission as it relates to communal clashes between Kogi and Anambra communities around that area. So, you can imagine, with oil now thrown into the mix, that communal issue will now take a new twist. I want to speak for Kogi State that we have absolute faith in the National Boundary Commission to do the right thing as far as delineation of our boundary with Anambra is concerned. In fact, in that area, all the three states, Kogi, Anambra and Enugu are laying claim to one part of it or the other.

But, for us, we are all Nigerians, the oil underground spread definitely beyond the boundary of those states and what we need to do is to prospect it but we have the good fortune of

knowing that the one that is producing now is from Odeke in Ibaji Local Government of Kogi State.

On the allegation that the boundary has been redrawn Though I am not aware of that report but I need to say certain things.

One, that the oil we are talking about was first developed by ELF and when they were to access the oil well years ago, as in standard practice they have to pay compensation to the villages that were around there as a prelude to the commencement of their work. I am aware that the communities they paid were in Kogi. I am not sure that there have been any re-delineation of border line since then. It is just a matter of making sure that proper documents are checked to further prove that the genesis of that oil well resides in Kogi State in terms of compensation.

Right now, for Kogi State to tap from it, we have to apply to the DPR for licence and when granted, look for investors to develop it; it is not like drilling borehole. It is a complex operation and because oil is the exclusive right of, and can only be controlled by, the Federal Government.

What we want is to be granted our rights as it concerns the oil and then we take it up from there.

Appeal to the people as the chairman, State Boundary Committee?

Let me be very frank, being an oil producing state, the benefit is directly proportional to the quantum of oil that is derived from your own portion of the mix. What Orient is producing now is very small and if all that well exclusively belongs to us in terms of location what we would be getting today is next to nothing, so we need to create an enabling environment for more companies to come to the Kogi part of the river basin to explore oil so that at the end of the day we would have a company that is producing 2000 barrels per day.

Earlier, I said ELF capped this well years ago and because it was not viable to them, it was abandoned, but today, with new technology, the oil wells are viable. So, we need to conduct ourselves as a people to make our community conducive enough for investors to come in.

Kogi at 21 I think 21 years of our existence as a state is worth celebrating. These past years, we have lived together in peace and harmony without any major threat to our existence as a people. We have had relative peace and I think, this alone is worth celebrating. We have succeeded in laying the foundation blocks for the state

and with the coming of Governor Idris Wada, we are moving from infancy to adulthood. We are consolidating the gains recorded by our predecessors. However, the governor has stressed that, in the spirit of the prevailing economic challenges in the country and the state, we should avoid extravagance.

On the ruling of the Federal High Court upholding his electoral victory Honestly, on behalf of the government, I can say with every sense of humility and with gratitude to God who saw us through, that all along, we were confident of victory because Captain Wada did nothing untoward to clinch the party’s ticket and went ahead to win the election. We are grateful to all those who called shortly after the legal victory to congratulate us for surmounting this legal hurdle placed on our path by people who, ordinarily, should be in the same party with us. The process that threw up Captain Wada was foolproof and very authentic and by this judgment, we are vindicated.

On reconciling with aggrieved party members Even those that went to court know that our doors are always open for them to embrace peace. There was a time the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria called stakeholders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state to a meeting. At that meeting, the governor led the team on the side of government and the party in the state. At that meeting, the President asked us to sheathe our swords and resolve to work for the good of the state. Ever since then, even at the risk of been negatively dubbed, the governor has continued to push for peace and collaboration from all stakeholders. He has not stopped extending his hands of fellowship to everyone. He has consistently called for all hands to be on deck to build the state. The door is still open.The governor has no ill-feeling against anybody on any account. Being in government is a call to service and it is not an opportunity for personal aggrandizement.

Possibility of appeal I am not in the best position to answer that, but I only hope that they will allow common sense to prevail.

We should not always allow our supporters to railroad us into doing things that are not warranted. The person who went to court should use his personal judgment instead of external persuasions, which in most cases are selfish. The mandate of Captain Wada holds great hope and potential for the state. Let us give peace

• Awoniyi

a chance and allow Captain Wada take the state to a destination we will all be proud of.

On whether the legal tussles are a distraction Yes, there were a lot of distractions but we have tried to remain focused.

What I am saying is that we did not allow the legal cases to derail us. But of a truth, the cases were a major distraction because we still had to create time to attend to our lawyers.

However, as it relates to the transformation agenda announced by the governor, the distractions had little or no effect. The initial obstacle had to do with the teething challenges on assumption of office. You would recall that we were actually looking at April as takeover date, but somehow, the Supreme Court ruling came and we found ourselves in office three months earlier than we thought. This was a major issue and was actually responsible for what you might regard as delay in kick-starting the transformation agenda. As things are now, the administration has taken off fully and what we are targeting is a complete transformation.

We are changing the way of doing things - the attitude of workers to work, attitude of public functionaries in conducting affairs of government, attitude of public officers to public funds and property, among others. We are changing the approach of government to development. Already, each of the commissioners is studying the report of the Think-tank Committee as it relates to their specific offices and duties. They will come out with proposals on how best they can execute the policies under their ministries. We also hope to go for a retreat and by the time we finish that, there is going to be a paradigm shift from how things were done before

‘There are talks going on. Long before the issue of these oil wells, there was a matter that was brought to the attention of the National Boundary Commission as it relates to communal clashes between Kogi and Anambra communities around that area. So, you can imagine, with oil now thrown into the mix’

now.

On replicating the Shonga Agricultural Project in Kogi We have made a lot of progress in that regard. By this Monday, about 500 youths will be drawn into a special agricultural entrepreneurial scheme. In all, we are looking at a thousand youths but the other 500 will acquire skills in public works.

Talking about agriculture, we are discussing with a Canadian company that is interested in establishing a food-related factory in the state.

The Commissioner for Agriculture is an expert and he was deliberately brought on board to drive the administration’s agricultural programme. The administration plans to boost cocoa and coffee production in the state. We have procured tractors for this purpose and we are getting additional cocoa seedlings.

We are optimistic that agriculture will flourish in the state and our optimism is premised on the fact that the federal government’s agricultural agenda suits our programme very well. We are determined to take agriculture as a prosperous and a profitable business. What we are actually doing is to divert what we got from SURE-P to jump-start the agricultural programme.

The influence of his father’s political career I thank God for my pedigree and I also thank God for who my father was. He taught us the attributes of honesty, transparency, hard work, dedication to service and above all, sincerity of purpose. All these have guided me in life. It is a great honour to have come from a great man like the late Chief S.B Awoniyi.

Challenges facing the state.

The foremost challenge the administration is facing is resources, which are grossly inadequate. The administration is looking at how it can improve the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR). It may interest you to note also that the state government pays over N2 billion as salaries to workers every month. No doubt, the resources are scarce. But be assured that the administration is working round the clock to ensure that things change for the better. That is why the governor is insisting that the way of doing thing must change.

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

44

POLITICS PERSPECTIVE Some people are opposed to a national conference at which vital problems confronting the country would lkbe addressed. In this piece Mike Igini Resident Electorial Commissioner, Cross River State, expresses fears for t he country in the absence of such a dialogue.

My fears for Nigeria, by Igini

T

HE mass killing by the Boko Haram group in assertion of a religious advocacy remains a regression that we must all speak up against but also, we must collectively move beyond mere condemnation to decisive steps in collaboration with security agencies to bring this national anomie to an end. It is in our best collective interest as people to arrest all such actions now, for the same reasons that Somalians and Afghans, now scattered all over the world should have done early enough to stem the drifts in their countries. But while doing so, we must also examine ourselves as a people and as a country; ask the deeper questions regarding how we got to the position where extremists with polarizing positions take center stage in our national discourse and the dystopia which this may lead us to as a country.

It is necessary to ask the same questions regarding how MEND and other militant South-South groups, as well as the MASSOB came to take centre stage as stakeholder representatives of the South-South and South East. The same phenomenology spurred five Army Majors to embark on the extreme course of violence to stem the divisive activities of politicians who are unable to see beyond their narrow interests, and to view Nigeria from a progressive symbol of strength for the prosperity of all.

That phenomenon lies in the persistent penchant to shy away from national dialogue on strengthening Nigeria to reflect the true aspirations of Nigerians as against the primordial superstructure constructed for colonial administrative convenience that we inherited. We are moving against the tide of time and it is most unfortunate because the broad outline of the 21st Century is clear; it offers opportunity for people who can live and work together and develop new ties that can bind together. Despite the wars that were fought several years ago, European countries are coming together to strengthen a community of nations with a common currency.

There is strength in diversities if well managed to foster social harmony. Time changes with new demands; the aspirations and demands of generation of Nigerians in the 1950s are not the same of Nigerians of today. This is a reality that we must all accept in order for us to meet the demands of our time. The issues that daily tear us apart reflect our different understanding of ourselves and what the entity called Nigeria means to the different groups; that is why we have not been able to get the issue of census right since independence and do not really know our population because the various groups, rather than see demographics usage for planning and development want to manipulate census figures for domination. Unlike the Americans that talk of the American dream of possibility of the individual attaining greatness irrespective of background, we do not know what we conceive of ourselves. What is it to be a citizen and a Nigerian? What is our dream and what hope or opportunity does Nigeria offer its diverse ethnic groups that would enable them defend it?

By avoiding engagement on collective aspirations through a national dialogue, we drive the true stakeholders of the federating units of Nigeria to the margins and allow the polarizing elements from the

• Igini

fringes to take centre stage.

It has become a recurrent proclivity for office holders like us in Nigeria from different parts of the country, who found themselves within the corridors of power, to fall into a delusion, forget the fact that public office is temporary; see themselves as replacement landlords and quasi-inheritors of unviable and unworkable militarybequeathed structures and institutions, rather than care-takers to restructure and reposition these frameworks on behalf of Nigerians.

Such quasi-inheritors develop an indescribable phobia for conversations of change about the Nigerian status-quo. Nigeria’s stature as the most populated blacks’ country in Africa with all its most-talked-about potentials remains a pride insofar its people believe in themselves and in the country.

This latter phobia and delusion inebriated the politicians until the five majors struck on January 15th 1966.

The same emotions intoxicated the Abacha government into killing the Ogoni Five. In the same vein, marginalization of the leading voices of the Igbos led to groups like MASSOB which now appears to speak on behalf of members of the intelligentsia like Chinua Achebe, Prof. Nwabueze and other great men of the lgbo nation, some of whom on personal merit, are now members of parliament of the United Kingdom.

For the same reason since 1993, the genuine and committed spokespersons of different nationalities like the Nupe, the Gwaris, Urhobos, Idomas, Efiks, Itsekiris, Kanuris, and others have been driven to the margins by trench combatants, installed by the quasi-inheritors who have taken over the political space and are bent only on self-enrichment and selfprotection rather than the development of our communities. It is, therefore, not surprising that such marginalized groups easily find voice and give loyalty to the seductive jingoism of polarizing groups seeking exit from the existing administrative superstructure.

In other words, the Nigerian entity has burgeoned and sustained a vacuum of discussion of its national differences due to needless anxiety, and thus failed to address and articulate a collective vision for the future. In response, fringe groups have occupied that vacuum with multiple distortions of social, eth-

nic and religious claims. MASSOB, MEND, Boko Haram and others are symptomatic manifestations of this vacuum of collective vision. While this vacuum remains, all nationbuilding efforts will remain disparate and every new leader will only become another figure within the pantheon of our national temple of discord.

At this point of apparent dislocation and displacement of the Nigerian people by the Boko Haram sect, it is imperative for us to rise above all pedestrian consideration and stand up for what will really make the entity called Nigeria a great country by confronting our realities and seek a collective accord through a national dialogue or conference where all groups with their demands including sympathisers, sponsors of Boko Haram could come out openly and put all demands on the table and in the spirit of give and take, come to a consensus for a just, fair and equitable united federation that will usher in a new national vision. Part of the need to face up to reality includes our acceptance that sovereignty which ultimately lies with the people, though delegated to elected officials, elected or appointed officials like us are not the only voices of the Nigerian people. Thus, within the institutional structures of elected representation, the collective will must be strengthened to rise above the mistakes and fears of the past, by seizing this hour of national pains to generate the initiative for national reconciliation through urgent national dialogue with ourselves. Let us itemize our different needs, understand and tolerate our differences, and though we may occasionally have reasons to compete, we can find better ways to collaborate and coexist.

Unless and until we acknowledge our differences and rise above them, see these differences as sources of strength and allow the panoply of the representatives of the collective interest of the people to come to the centre stage, the vacuum created by shying away from national dialogue will remain a playground for the voices from the fringes like Boko Haram that have occupied the centre stage of our national discussion; voices that will continue to polarize us because we have not found the will to meet ourselves in the middle. If we refuse to meet, they will help to tear us apart to dystopia. May we all not regret a collective failure to act to save Nigeria.

‘Visionary leadership being restored in Southwest’

By Dada Aladelokun, Assistant Editor

A

LL lovers of good governance through genuine people-oriented leader ship style have been admonished to embrace the positive change sweeping through the Southwest courtesy of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN).

The admonition came yesterday from an ACN chieftain in Ondo State, Chief Adegboyega Akin-Deko, while commenting on the muscle-flexing of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ahead the 2015 elections, especially in the Southwest.

“It is clear to all that the PDP has lost it completely in the Southwest, given the ever-improving impressive records of the ACN in the some of the states where they have been governing so far. There is no denying the fact that the PDP as a party appreciates the fact. Of course, the party has the right to feature candidates in any election, but we must all key into the genuine revolution of service being championed by the ACN in the interest of our people and the future of our unborn generations,” Akin-Deko said.

He said that the time had come in the life of the nation for politicians to stop playing politics with the lives of Nigerians who are desirous of the good things of life, warning that politicians must eschew politics of selfishness and support genuine efforts to lift Nigerians out of the woods in all ramifications.

Describing as laughable reports that the PDP are planning to “capture” the Southwest in 2015, the frontline politician said: “As recently shown in Edo State, Southwest people are too politically savvy to accept the undemocratic, selfcentred leaders that control PDP and LP to control their collective destiny. To them, it is final bye to the bad old days.”

He spoke further: “In Ondo State, signs are there that President Jonathan has abandoned his own party and ganged up with the Labour Party (LP) in a desperate bid to stop CAN in the governorship election coming up in Ondo State next month. But I dare say that with Chief Rotimi Akeredolu, our candidate, ACN is on course to win Ondo and all Southwest states and restore visionary and people-oriented leadership in the zone for other zones to learn from.

The people of Ondo State, he urged, must be alert during the coming election, adding: “They must vote for Akeredolu and ensure that their votes count at the end of the exercise because it is all about their welfare and the future of their • Akin-Deko children.”

Kokori decries state of Urhobo nation From Polycarp Orosevwotu, Warri

F

ORMER Secretary-General of the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas (NUPENG) Chief Ovie Frank Kokori at the weekend de cried the state of Urhobo nation in the political equation of Delta State and the country.

Kokori who is the Chief Convener of the Urhobo United Congress (UUC) spoke during an inaugural meeting of the group at Evomec Hotel, OviorieOvu in Ethiope East Local Government Area of Delta State. He lamented that the Urhobo had been grossly marginalized.

He pointed out that UCC was committed to the struggle of uplifting the political, economic and social wellbeing of the Urhobo nation which he said, is the fifth largest ethnic nationality but the most disenfranchised in Nigeria and Delta State.

Kokori said, “This was a state we sacrificed so much to create in 1991 but today, we are not only being disenfranchised, we are cheated and also ignored by the three tiers of government. The role of the group is to ensure it complements or build on the solid foundation of the Urhobo foremost leaders like late Chiefs Mukoro Mowoe, T..E.A. Salubi, and others. We are not in anyway in competition with our revered Urhobo Progress Union UPU headed

by Gen. Patrick Aziza but to also complement the union’s effort in some special areas.”

He said Urhobo was supposed to be the determining factor in all political happenings in Delta State because of her numerical strength but has been relegated to the background. With his group, he assured that Urhobo would take her destiny in her hands.

Kokori emphasized that the Urhobo nation is the only ethnic nationality that has no state or governor of their own.

• Kokori

•From right: Delta State Governor Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, Chief E. K. Clark (middle) and Senator Felix Ibru, (left) during the general meeting of Southsouth Peoples Assembly in Warri, yesterday.

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

45

COMMENTARY

FEMI ABBAS ON

“W

HOEVER amongst you sees something abhorrent let him change it physically; but if he is incapable, then, let him change it verbally; and if he is still incapable to do so then let him change it wishfully; however the last option is an evidence of a very weak faith”.

Hadith of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).

Dear Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Ordinarily, this open letter would not have been necessary if some other avenues were available for public servants like you to rob minds with the ordinary citizens of Nigeria. Similar letters had been written in the recent past through this column to some other prominent public servants in Nigeria including Mr. President. Though you are being surreptitiously labelled unjustifiably by the Press as the most controversial CBN Governor ever in Nigeria, it is a matter of delight for reasonable Nigerians who follow your focused direction that you are calmly weathering the storm despite unwarranted heat being maliciously generated from certain quarters to ensure your failure.

You would have probably noticed that ‘The Message’ as a column takes a special interest in your office. This is not because you are a Muslim and in charge of money but because your courageous and patriotic performance so far deserves public cooperation and support. And, by winning the World Banker of the year 2011 award, you have put the malicious sceptics to shame. Ever since you became the CBN Governor in 2010, this column has followed your track record very keenly and has randomly commended or admonished you as the situation warranted. Yet, we have never met one on one.

By and large, as the 10th Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria you have wonderfully proved your mettle by showing that administrative prowess is surely a property of intellect with which only the Almighty Allah endows whoever He wishes. The very quantum of your impeccable achievements in that exalted office in the past two years conspicuously stand you out of the pack. In a sane country the citizenry should be proud of you.

However, there are moments in the life of a leader when it may become necessary to look over his shoulder and see if the foot soldiers are still there to man the rear effectively.

Perhaps for you this is one of such moments.

Going down the memory lane, you will recall that though the British Colonialists first brought monetary coins and currency notes to Nigeria in 1892 such monies were not in public circulation until 1912 when the West African Currency Board was established to issue currency notes for the sub-region. Nevertheless, the history of Nigeria’s Central Bank did not take root until 1952 when the report of an enquiry into banking practice in Nigeria was submitted. That enquiry led by G. D. Paton a Briton appointed by the Colonial Administration paved the way for the first Banking Ordinance designed to ensure orderly commercial banking and to prevent any establishment of unviable banks that year. Subsequently, a draft legislation for the establishment of Central Bank for Nigeria was presented to the House of Representatives in March 1958 which became fully implemented on July 1, 1959 when the CBN officially came into existence.

Since then, the Central Bank Act, 1958 (as amended) and the Banking Decree 1969 (as amended) have constituted the legal framework within which the CBN operates and regulates banks. Also, the wide range of economic liberalization and deregulation measures which began in 1986 with the adoption of a Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP) resulted in the emergence of more private banks and other financial intermediaries. The Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BOFI) Decrees 24 and 25 of 1991, which repealed the Banking Decree 1969 and all its amendments were, therefore, enacted to strengthen and extend the powers of CBN to cover the new institutions in order to enhance the effectiveness of monetary policy, regulation and supervision of banks as well as non-banking financial institutions. Unfortunately in 1997, the General Sani Abacha led Federal Government enacted a new CBN (Amendment Decree No. 3 and BOFI (Amended) Decree No. 4 to remove completely the limited autonomy which the Bank had enjoyed since 1991.

Thus, the 1997 amendments brought the CBN back under the supervision of the Ministry of Finance an opportunity that opened the gate for reckless looting of the national treasury. The Decree made CBN directly responsible to the Minister of Finance with respect to the supervision and control of banks and other financial institutions, while extending the supervisory role of the bank to other

Femabbas@yahoo.com 08122697498

Letter to CBN Governor

•Sanusi

specialised Banks and Financial Institutions.

That amendment placed enormous powers on the Ministry of Finance while leaving the CBN with a subjugated role in the monitoring of the financial institutions with little room for the Bank to exercise discretionary powers. In 1998, another CBN (Amendment) Decree No. 37 which repealed the CBN (Amended) Decree No. 3 of 1997 was enacted. The Decree provided a measure of operational autonomy for the CBN to carry out certain traditional functions which enhanced its versatility.

However, the current legal framework within which the CBN operates is the CBN Act of 2007 which repealed the CBN Act of 1991 and all its amendments. The Act provides that the CBN shall be a fully autonomous body in the discharge of its functions under the Act and the Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BOFI) Act with the objective of promoting stability and continuity in economic management.

In line with this, the Act has widened the objects of the CBN to include ensuring monetary and price stability as well as rendering economic advice to the Federal Government.

Besides, the regulatory powers of the CBN were strengthened by the Banks and other Financial Institutions (Amendment) Decree No. 38 of 1998 which repealed BOFI (Amendments) Decree No. 4 of 1997. By this Decree, the CBN’s powers on banks, especially those relating to withdrawal of licenses of distressed banks and appointment of liquidators of such banks, including the NDIC was restored. Through those amendments, the CBN may vary or revoke any condition subject to which a license was granted or may impose fresh or additional condition to the granting of a license to transact banking business in the country. This is the Act that gives you as the CBN Governor the enormous powers which you now wield

‘

within the banking sector albeit to the great advantage of Nigeria and Nigerians.

Now that we have a controversy at hand over the desirability or otherwise of introducing a new denomination of Nigerian currency it may become pertinent to also look if briefly at the history of Nigerian currency from colonial times. You will remember that the West African Currency Board was initially responsible for issuing currency notes in Nigeria from 1912 to 1959. Hitherto, the various tribes in Nigeria had used various forms of money including cowries and manilas.

But on July 1, 1959, the Central Bank of Nigeria issued the first Nigerian currency notes and coins thereby forcing the West African Currency Board to withdraw its notes and coins from circulation in the country. It was, however, not until July 1, 1962 that legal tender status was changed to reflect the country’s new status. The notes were again changed in 1968 as a war strategy following the misuse of the country’s currency notes in certain circumstances.

And on March 31, 1971, the then Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon announced that Nigeria would change to decimal currency on January 1, 1973 in line with the modern monetary policy in the world. He said the major currency unit to be called Naira would be equivalent to ten shillings of the British currency of Pound Sterling while the minor unit would be called kobo 100 of which would make one Naira. The decision to change to decimal currency followed the recommendations of the Decimal Currency Committee set up in 1962 which submitted its report in 1964. But for the January 1966 military coup that led to a civil war, the Nigerian decimal currency would have been in use since 1966.

The change that took place in January, 1973 was a major one which involved both currency notes and coins. The major unit of currency which used to be one Pound (£1) ceased to exist and the one Naira which was equivalent to ten Shillings (10/-) became the major unit. Yet on February 11, 1977 a new banknote denomination of 20 Naira value was issued as the highest denomination. This was special in two respects. Its issuance became necessary not only as a result of the growth of incomes in the country but also as a preference for cash transactions and the need for convenience. Thus, N20 note became the first currency note in Nigeria to bear the Portrait of a Nigerian citizen, in this case, the late Head of State, General Murtala Ramat Muhammed (1938-1976) who was killed in a February 13 1976 military coup attempt. He was declared a national hero on the 1st of October, 1978. The note was issued on the 1st Anniversary of his assassination as a befit-

In a democracy, who should have the way on a vital national policy as new currency? Is it the majority or the minority? Are you aware that an imposition of such a policy by you the CBN Governor, the Presidency and the pseudo politicians called business group may boomerang especially when the same group is seemingly responsible for the current national economic doldrums?

How economically reasonable is it to spend about N40 billion to mint new currency only to gain N7 billion as being claimed by your spokesmen?

’

ting tribute to a most illustrious son of Nigeria.

Again, on July 2, 1979, new currency notes of three denominations: N1, N5 and N10 were introduced. These notes were of the same size: 151 x 78 mm as the N20 note issued in 1977. In order to facilitate identification however, distinctive colours similar to those of the current various banknotes were used. The notes bore the portraits of three other eminent Nigerians who had been declared national heroes on October 1, 1978. These were Herbert Macaulay; Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa and Chief Alvan Ikoku. The back of each of these notes was engraved in such a way as to reflect the cultural traits of the country. But by 1991, when the Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP), had terribly battered the value of the Naira rendering it almost valueless, both the 50k and N1 Notes were reduced to coins.

Later, in response to the expansion in economic activities and to facilitate an efficient payments system, the N100, N200, N500, N1000 were introduced respectively in December 1999, November 2000, April 2001 and October, 2005. And on February 28, 2007, N50, N20, N10, and N5 banknotes as well as N1 and 50K coins were reissued with new designs, while a new N2 coin was introduced.

Since 1991 when SAP rendered the Naira almost valueless, the coined denominations of Nigerian Naira has become moribund having been rejected by the populace thereby turning Nigeria into a country without coins.

Despite this however, Nigerians had never queried any need for introducing new currency denomination as they are now doing in respect of N5000 note.

Now, many questions are begging for answers: 1. At a time when corruption is virtually at its crescendo in the country and you as the CBN Governor are calling for a cashless economy what informs the introduction of the highest currency denomination note of N5000?

2. Is there no contradiction in advocating for a cashless economy with one side of the mouth and campaigning for introduction of N5000 with the other side as you are now doing?

3. What is the logic in introducing N5000 note at a time when Nigerians have not been convinced on the need to return to the use of coins which you are now trying to reintroduce?

4. Why is such a delicate and highly controversial action being unilaterally taken with neither the involvement of the legislature nor the consent of the populace through a referendum?

5. In a democracy, who should have the way on a vital national policy as new currency?

Is it the majority or the minority? Are you aware that an imposition of such a policy by you the CBN Governor, the Presidency and the pseudo politicians called business group may boomerang especially when the same group is seemingly responsible for the current national economic doldrums?

6. How economically reasonable is it to spend about N40 billion to mint new currency only to gain N7 billion as being claimed by your spokesmen?

Perhaps you need to be hinted that the general impression in the country about this new monetary policy and which is probably responsible for the overwhelming opposition to it is the suspicion that you may be inadvertently colluding with some corrupt politicians to ditch Nigeria economically. This impression is a direct opposite of the high esteem in which you were held before now by most Nigerians because of your marvellous performance in the banking sector. In the past one year, two Nigerian public officials have positively rendered the populace nonplussed by their wonderful actions. These are your esteemed self and the Inspector General of Police Muhammad Dikko Abubakar.

Mr. CBN Governor, you have done well so far. Please, do not allow these chameleonic politicians to use you for their own purpose because they will eventually dump you characteristically and turn back to laugh at you. A leader is known not by the power he wields but by his application of magnanimity in the use of such power.

You are already considered by the populace to be a national economic hero. Do not allow any political charlatan to reduce you into a villain. Politicians are best known for doing that. You are not one yet but you know them. A word is enough for the wise.

We shall meet again in a foreseeable future to exchange notes God willing.

•Historical facts in this article were culled from the internet.

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

46

FOREIGN NEWS U.S. DEMOCRATIC NATIONAL CONVENTION

‘Americans...you must re-elect Obama’ Text of former President Bill Clinton’s speech during the nomination of President Barack Obama for re-election during the Democratic Party National Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina...yesterday

N

OW, Mr. Mayor, fellow Democrats, we are here to nominate a president... and I’ve got one in mind.

I want to nominate a man whose own life has known its fair share of adversity and uncertainty. I want to nominate a man who ran for president to change the course of an already weak economy and then, just six weeks before his election, saw it suffer the biggest collapse since the Great Depression, a man who stopped the slide into depression and put us on the long road to recovery, knowing all the while that no matter — no matter how many jobs that he saved or created, there’d still be millions more waiting, worried about feeding their own kids, trying to keep their hopes alive.

I want to nominate a man who’s cool on the outside... but who burns for America on the inside.

I want — I want a man who believes with no doubt that we can build a new American dream economy, driven by innovation and creativity, by education and, yes, by cooperation.

And by the way, after last night, I want a man who had the good sense to marry Michelle Obama.

You know.

I want — I want Barack Obama to be the next president of the United States. And. I proudly nominate him to be the standard bearer of the Democratic Party.

Now, folks, in Tampa a few days ago, we heard a lot of talk all about how the president and the Democrats don’t really believe in free enterprise and individual initiative, how we want everybody to be dependent on the government, how bad we are for the economy. This Republican narrative, this alternative universe says that every one of us in this room who amounts to anything, we’re all completely self-made.

One of the greatest chairmen the Democratic Party ever had, Bob Strauss, used to say that every politician wants every voter to believe he was born in a log cabin he built himself.

But, as Strauss then admitted, it ain’t so. We Democrats, we think the country works better with a strong middle class, with real opportunities for poor folks to work their way into it, with a relentless focus on the future, with business and government actually working together to promote growth and broadly shared prosperity. You see, we believe that “We’re all in this together” is a far better philosophy than “You’re on your own.”

So who’s right? Well, since 1961, for 52 years now, the Republicans have held the White House 28 years, the Democrats 24. In those 52 years, our private economy has produced 66 million private- sector jobs. So what’s the job score? Republicans: twenty-four million. Democrats: forty-two.

Now, there’s — there’s a reason for this. It turns out that advancing equal opportunity and economic empowerment is both morally right and good economics. Why? Because poverty, discrimination, and ignorance restrict growth.

When you stifle human potential, when you don’t invest in new ideas, it doesn’t just cut off the people who are affected.

It hurts us all.

We know that investments in education and infrastructure and scientific and technological research increase growth. They increase good jobs, and they create new wealth for all the rest of us.

Now, there’s something I’ve noticed lately. You probably have, too. And

•Supporters...yesterday.

•Clinton...yesterday

•Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi fielding reporter’s questions at the convention.

it’s this. Maybe just because I grew up in a different time, but though I often disagree with Republicans, I actually never learned to hate them the way the far right that now controls their party seems to hate our president and a lot of other Democrats.

I — that — that would be impossible for me, because President Eisenhower sent federal troops to my home state to integrate Little Rock Central High School. President Eisenhower built the interstate highway system.

When I was a governor, I worked with President Reagan in his White House on the first round of welfare reform and with President George H.W. Bush on national education goals.

I’m actually very grateful to — if you saw from the film what I do today, I have to be grateful — and you should be, too — that President George W. Bush supported PEPFAR. It saved the lives of millions of people in poor countries. And... I have been honored to work with both Presidents Bush on natural disasters in the aftermath of the South Asian tsunami, Hurricane Katrina, the horrible earthquake in Haiti.

Through my foundation both in America and around the world, I’m working all the time with Democrats, Republicans, and independents. Sometimes I couldn’t tell you for the life who I’m working with because we focus on solving problems and seizing opportunities and not fighting all the time.

And — so here’s what I want to say to you. And here’s what I want the people at home to think about. When times are tough and people are frustrated and angry and hurting and uncertain, the politics of constant conflict may be good, but what is good politics does not necessarily work in the real world. What works in the real world is cooperation.

What works in the real world is cooperation, business and govern-

ment, foundations and universities.

Ask the mayors who are here.

Los Angeles is getting green and Chicago is getting an infrastructure bank because Republicans and Democrats are working together to get it.

They didn’t check their brains at the door. They didn’t stop disagreeing. But their purpose was to get something done.

Now, why is this true? Why does cooperation work better than constant conflict? Because nobody’s right all the time, and a broken clock is right twice a day.

And every one of us — every one of us and every one of them, we’re compelled to spend our fleeting lives between those two extremes, knowing we’re never going to be right all the time, and hopefully we’re right more than twice a day.

Unfortunately, the faction that now dominates the Republican Party doesn’t see it that way. They think government is always the enemy, they’re always right, and compromise is weakness. Just in the last couple of elections, they defeated two distinguished Republican senators because they dared to cooperate with Democrats on issues important to the future of the country, even national security.

They beat a Republican congressman with almost 100 percent voting record on every conservative score because he said he realized he did not have to hate the president to disagree with him. Boy, that was a non-starter, and they threw him out.

One of the main reasons we ought to re-elect President Obama is that he is still committed to constructive cooperation.

Look at his record. Look at his record. Look at his record. He appointed Republican secretaries of defense, the Army, and transportation. He appointed a vice president who ran against him in 2008. And he trusted that vice president to oversee the suc-

cessful end of the war in Iraq and the implementation of the Recovery Act. And Joe Biden — Joe Biden did a great job with both.

Now — now, he — President Obama — President Obama appointed several members of his cabinet, even though they supported Hillary in the primary. Heck, he even appointed Hillary.

Now, wait a minute. I am — I am very proud of her. I am proud of the job she and the national security team have done for America.

I am grateful that they have worked together to make it safer and stronger to build a world with more partners and fewer enemies. I’m grateful for the relationship of respect and partnership she and the president have enjoyed.

And the signal that sends to the rest of the world, that democracy does not have a — have to be a blood sport, it can be an honorable enterprise that advances the public interest.

Now, besides the national security team, I am very grateful to the men and women who’ve served our country in uniform through these perilous times.

And I am especially grateful to Michelle Obama and to Jill Biden for supporting those military families while their loved ones were overseas... and for supporting our veterans when they came home, when they come home bearing the wounds of war or needing help to find education or jobs or housing. President Obama’s whole record on national security is a tribute to his strength, to his judgment, and to his preference for inclusion and partnership over partisanship. We need more of it in Washington, D.C. We all know that he also tried to work with congressional Republicans on health care, debt reduction, and new jobs. And that didn’t work out so well.

But it could have been because, as the Senate Republican leader said, in a remarkable moment of candor, two

full years before the election, their number-one priority was not to put America back to work. It was to put the president out of work.

Well — wait a minute. Senator, I hate to break it to you, but we’re going to keep President Obama on the job.

Are you willing to work for it?

Wait a minute.

Four more years! Four more years!

Four more years! Four more years!

Four more years!

In Tampa...

Four more years! Four more years!

Four more years!

In Tampa — in Tampa, did y’all watch their convention? I did.

In Tampa, the Republican argument against the president’s re- election was actually pretty simple, pretty snappy.

It went something like this: “We left him a total mess. He hasn’t cleaned it up fast enough, so fire him and put us back in.’’

Now — but — but they did it well.

They looked good, they sounded good.

They convinced me that they all love their families and their children, and we’re grateful they’ve been born in America, and all — really, I’m not being — they did.

And this is important. They convinced me they were honorable people who believe what they’ve said and they’re going to keep every commitment they’ve made. We’ve just got to make sure the American people know what those commitments are.

Because — because in order to look like an acceptable, reasonable, moderate alternative to President Obama, they just didn’t say very much about the ideas they’ve offered over the last two years. They couldn’t, because they want to go back to the same, old policies that got us in trouble in the first place.

They want to cut taxes for high-income Americans even more than President Bush did. They want to get rid of those pesky financial regulations designed to prevent another crash and prohibit federal bailouts. They want to actually increase defense spending over a decade $2 trillion more than the Pentagon has requested, without saying what they’ll spend it on.

And they want to make enormous cuts in the rest of budget, especially programs that help the middle class and poor children.

As another president once said, there they go again.

Now, I like...

I — I like the argument for President Obama’s re-election a lot better.

Here it is. He inherited a deeply damaged economy. He put a floor under the crash. He began the long, hard road to recovery and laid the foundation for a modern, more well-balanced economy that will produce millions of good, new jobs, vibrant new businesses, and lots of new wealth for innovators.

Now, are we where we want to be today? No. Is the president satisfied?

Of course not. But are we better off than we were when he took office?

Listen to this. Listen to this. Everybody (inaudible) Everybody (inaudible) when President Barack Obama took office, the economy was in freefall. It had just shrunk nine full per cent of GDP. We were losing 750,000 jobs a month. Are we doing better than that today?

Yes! The answer is yes. Now, look.

Here’s the challenge he faces and the challenge all of you who support him face. I get it. I know it. I’ve been there.

A lot of Americans are still angry and frustrated about this economy. If you look at the numbers, you know employment is growing, banks are beginning to lend again, and in a lot of places, housing prices have even begun to pick up.

•Continued on page 47

47

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

FOREIGN NEWS U.S. DEMOCRATIC NATIONAL CONVENTION

‘Americans..., you must re-elect Obama’ •Continued from page 46 But too many people do not feel it yet. I had this same thing happen in 1994 and early ’95. We could see that the policies were working, that the economy was growing, but most people didn’t feel it yet. Thankfully, by 1996, the economy was roaring, everybody felt it, and we were halfway through the longest peacetime expansion in the history of the United States.

But the difference this time is purely in the circumstances. President Obama started with a much weaker economy than I did. Listen to me now. No president, no president — not me, not any of my predecessors — no one could have fully repaired all the damage that he found in just four years.

Now — but he has — he has laid the foundations for a new, modern, successful economy of shared prosperity. And if you will renew the president’s contract, you will feel it.

You will feel it.

Folks, whether the American people believe what I just said or not may be the whole election. I just want you to know that I believe it.

With all my heart, I believe it.

Now, why do I believe it? I’m fixing to tell you why. I believe it because President Obama’s approach embodies the values, the ideas, and the direction America has to take to build a 21st-century version of the American dream, a nation of shared opportunities, shared responsibilities, shared prosperity, a shared sense of community.

So let’s get back to the story. In 2010, as the president’s recovery program kicked in, the job losses stopped and things began to turn around. The Recovery Act saved or created millions of jobs and cut taxes — let me say this again — cut taxes for 95 percent of the American people.

And in the last 29 months, our economy has produced about 4.5 million private-sector jobs.

We could have done better, but last year the Republicans blocked the president’s job plan, costing the economy more than a million new jobs. So here’s another job score.

President Obama: plus 4.5 million.

Congressional Republicans: zero.

During this period — during this period, more than 500,000 manufacturing jobs have been created under President Obama.

That’s the first time manufacturing jobs have increased since the 1990s.

And I’ll tell you something else.

The auto industry restructuring worked. It saved...

It saved more than a million jobs, and not just at G.M., Chrysler, and their dealerships, but in auto parts manufacturing all over the country. That’s why even the automakers who weren’t part of the deal supported it. They needed to save those parts suppliers, too.

Like I said, we’re all in this together.

So what’s happened? There are now 250,000 more people working in the auto industry than on the day the companies were restructured.

So — now, we all know that Governor Romney opposed the plan to save G.M. and Chrysler. So here’s another job score.

Are you listening in Michigan and Ohio and across the country?

Here — here’s another job score.

Obama: 250,000.

Now, the agreement the administration made with the management, labor, and environmental groups to double car mileage, that was a good deal, too. It will cut your gas prices in half, your gas bill. No matter what the price is, if you double the mileage of your car, your bill will be half what it would have been. It will

•Supporters at the Convention...yesterday

make us more energy independent.

It will cut greenhouse gas emission.

And according to several analyses, over the next 20 years, it will bring us another 500,000 good, new jobs into the American economy.

The president’s energy strategy, which he calls all-of-the-above, is helping, too. The boom in oil and gas production, combined with greater energy efficiency, has driven oil imports to a near 20-year low and natural gas production to an alltime high. And renewable energy production has doubled.

Of course, we need a lot more new jobs, but there are already more than 3 million jobs open and unfilled in America, mostly because the people who apply for them don’t yet have the required skills to do them. So even as we get Americans more jobs, we have to prepare more Americans for the new jobs that are actually going to be created. The old economy is not coming back. We’ve got to build a new one and educate people to do those jobs.

The president and his education secretary have supported community colleges and employers in working together to train people for jobs that are actually open in their communities.

And even more important, after a decade in which exploding college costs have increased the dropout rate so much that the percentage of our young people with four-year college degrees has gone down so much that we have dropped to 16th in the world in the percentage of young people with college degrees.

So the president’s student loan reform is more important than ever.

Here’s what it does. Here’s what it does. Here’s what it does.

You need to tell every voter where you live about this. It lowers the cost of federal student loans. And even more important, it gives students the right to repay those loans as a clear, fixed, low percentage of their income for up to 20 years.

Now, what does this mean? What does this mean? Think of it. It means no one will ever have to drop out of college again for fear they can’t repay their debt.

And it means — it means that if someone wants to take a job with a modest income, a teacher, a police officer, if they want to be a smalltown doctor in a little rural area,

they won’t have to turn those jobs down because they don’t pay enough to repay the debt. Their debt obligation will be determined by their salary. This will change the future for young Americans.

I don’t know about you, but all these issues, I know we’re better off because President Obama made the decisions he did.

Now, that brings me to health care.

And the Republicans call it, derisively, “Obamacare.” They say it’s a government takeover, a disaster, and that if we’ll just elect them, they’ll repeal it. Well, are they right?

No! Let’s take a look at what’s actually happened so far. First, individuals and businesses have already gotten more than $1 billion in refunds from insurance companies because the new law requires 80 percent to 85 percent of your premium to go to your health care, not profits or promotion. And...

The gains are even greater than that, because a bunch of insurance companies have applied to lower their rates to comply with the requirement.

Second, more than 3 million young people between 19 and 25 are insured for the first time because their parents’ policies can cover them.

Third, millions of seniors are receiving preventive care, all the way from breast cancer screenings to test for heart problems and scores of other things, and younger people are getting them, too.

Fourth, soon the insurance companies — not the government, the insurance companies — will have millions of new customers, many of them middle-class people with preexisting conditions who never could get insurance before.

Now, finally, listen to this. For the last two years, after going up at three times the rate of inflation for a decade, for the last two years, health care costs have been under 4 percent in both years for the first time in 50 years.

So let me ask you something. Are we better off because President Obama fought for health care reform? You bet we are.

Now, there were two other attacks on the president in Tampa I think deserve an answer. First, both Governor Romney and Congressman Ryan attacked the presi-

dent for allegedly “robbing Medicare’’ of $716 billion. That’s the same attack they leveled against the Congress in 2010, and they got a lot of votes on it.

But it’s not true.

Look, here’s what really happened. You be the judge.

Here’s what really happened.

There were no cuts to benefits at all, none.

What the president did was to save money by taking the recommendations of a commission of professionals to cut unwarranted subsidies to providers and insurance companies that were not making people healthier and were not necessary to get the providers to provide the service.

And instead of raiding Medicare, he used the savings to close the donut hole in the Medicare drug program.

And — you all got to listen carefully to this. This is really important — and to add eight years to the life of the Medicare trust fund so it is solvent until 2024. So...

So President Obama and the Democrats didn’t weaken Medicare. They strengthened Medicare.

Now, when Congressman Ryan looked into that TV camera and attacked President Obama’s Medicare savings as, quote, “the biggest, coldest power play,’’ I didn’t know whether to laugh or cry because that $716 billion is exactly to the dollar the same amount of Medicare savings that he has in his own budget!

You got to give one thing: It takes some brass to attack a guy for doing what you did.

Now — so — wait a minute.

Now you’re having a good time, but this is getting serious, and I want you to listen.

It’s important, because a lot of people believe this stuff.

Now, at least on this issue, on this one issue, Governor Romney has been consistent. He...

He attacked President Obama, too, but he actually wants to repeal those savings and give the money back to the insurance company.

He wants to go back to the old system, which means we’ll reopen the donut hole and force seniors to pay more for drugs, and we’ll reduce the life of the Medicare trust fund by eight full years.

So if he’s elected, and if he does

what he promised to do, Medicare will now go broke in 2016. Think about that. That means after all we won’t have to wait until their voucher program kicks in, in 2023, to see the end of Medicare as we know it.

They’re going to do it to us sooner than we thought.

Now, folks, this is serious, because it gets worse. And you won’t be laughing when I finish telling you this. They also want to block grant Medicaid and cut it by a third over the coming 10 years. Of course, that’s going to really hurt a lot of poor kids.

But that’s not all. A lot of folks don’t know it, but nearly two-thirds of Medicaid is spent on nursing home care for Medicare seniors who are eligible for Medicaid.

It’s going to end Medicare as we know it. And a lot of that money is also spent to help people with disabilities, including a lot of middleclass families whose kids have Down’s syndrome or autism or other severe conditions.

And, honestly, just think about it.

If that happens, I don’t know what those families are going to do. So I know what I’m going to do: I’m going to do everything I can to see that it doesn’t happen. We can’t let it happen. We can’t.

Now, wait a minute. Let’s look...

AUDIENCE: Four more years!

Four more years! Four more years!

Let’s look at the other big charge the Republicans made. It’s a real doozy.

They actually have charged and run ads saying that President Obama wants to weaken the work requirements in the welfare reform bill I signed that moved millions of people from welfare to work. Wait.

You need to know, here’s what happened.

Nobody ever tells you what really happened. Here’s what happened. When some Republican governors asked if they could have waivers to try new ways to put people on welfare back to work, the Obama administration listened, because we all know it’s hard for even people with good work histories to get jobs today, so moving folks from welfare to work is a real challenge.

And the administration agreed to give waivers to those governors and others only if they had a credible plan to increase employment by 20 percent and they could keep the waivers only if they did increase employment.

Now, did — did I make myself clear? The requirement was for more work, not less.

So this is personal to me. We moved millions of people off welfare. It was one of the reasons that, in the eight years I was president, we had 100 times as many people move out of poverty into the middle class than happened under the previous 12 years, 100 times as many. It’s a big deal.

But I am telling you, the claim that President Obama weakened welfare reform’s work requirement is just not true.

But they keep on running ads claiming it. You want to know why?

Their campaign pollster said, “We are not going to let our campaign be dictated by fact-checkers.’’

Now, finally I can say: That is true.

I couldn’t have said it better myself.

And I hope you and every American within the sound of my voice remembers it every time they see one of those ads, and it turns into an ad to re-elect Barack Obama and keep the fundamental principles of personal empowerment and moving everybody who can get a job into work as soon as we can.

•Continued on page 60

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THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

49

NGO advocates character reorientation

A

NON-GOVERNMENTAL organisation, Good Character Development Initiative (GCDI) has stressed the need for character reorientation, saying it is the only way the country can surmount its challenges and attain genuine development.

Prince Nnagozie Ochi, the organisation’s Chief Social Architect, said good character is in short supply, making it difficult for Nigeria to develop and attain greatness.

He said: “Ask a primary school child what he will like be when he grows up and he will readily mention doctor, engineer or lawyer, etc, but ask the same child who his role model is, and he will draw a blank.”

Ochi explained this to mean that people whom children can model their lives after are few and far between in the country.

There may be very rich individuals, cruising around in sleek cars but only few can be described as role models.

This is what the Good Character Development Initiative sets out to address.

How? Ochi said his organisation is involved with schools around the country where it inculcates good character development in the curricular through talks and carefully prepared manuals, •Continued from Page 13

commercial agriculture in the state.

Fayemi said: “This event therefore is a dream come true as it has once again proved to you, good people of Ekiti State, that every declaration of government since the inception of this administration is neither a mere sloganeering nor statement of intentions but practicable, purposeful and achievable statement of fact.

“As we launch this initiative today, Ekiti State has become the first state in the federation to tap into the many economic and nutritional advantages of cassava bread after the recent launch by the Federal Government.

“This is clearly evident in the revolution of producing staple bread from cassava. In the first place, we believe that consumption of cassava bread is healthy as it reduces, to a large extent, the injurious content which the white bread poses to certain categories of consumers particularly those with diabetes related cases.

“We have always believed that healthy people make a healthy society. The health of our people is

By Ogochukwu Ikeje

complete with pictures and notes on global role models.

Nelson Mandela is among the models. So is a boy born with deformity who, apart from completing school and participating in sport, also undertook mountain climbing.

So, too, does the black South African boy who, while living with HIV, also became a strong voice urging action against the spread of the virus. The boy later died but his message remains inspirational, his legacy concretised for life.

Dr Christopher Kolade who made a name in broadcasting, administration and diplomacy is also a character model.

“We are looking to have a critical mass of young people, a small but crucial number of people in positions of leadership,” Ochi said in Lagos where the organisation’s activities are coordinated.

How does GCDI get schools and teachers involved, since many people in an unflattering economy like Nigeria’s tend to be cynical and disinterested in this sort of campaign?

Ochi explained that his organisation first determines the level of interest and enthusiasm of school personnel before it can

•GCDI seeks a new character orientation in Nigerians

get involved with them. If GCDI finds scoffers in one school, it turns to another until it encounters people who share the vision. Now, he said, women teachers are driving the campaign.

The organisation is funded by private citizens but is not donordependent like most NGOs; Ochi makes substantial contributions.

Any hopes that GCDI’s project can substantially change the country any time soon?

Ochi is realistic, saying the new Nigeria of his dream may not evolve that quickly. He conceded that the organisation has not comprehensively

covered the country, with its presence, for now, only in Lagos, Abuja, Yenagoa and Ibadan but he noted that GCDI must start from somewhere.

Besides, people who have attended their seminars are expected to take the message to their local environments.

It makes sense.

•Ochi (right) with Dr Kolade

Ekiti stimulates growth with cassava of great concern to us as we consider them as the plank upon which a developed state with all the indices of growth is built. The cassava bread that is being launched today will go a long way in this regard.

“Similarly, of great importance to me is the clear capacity of the initiative to ignite industrial development which would invariably expand economic activities and create jobs for our teeming populace.

“I call on all farmers to take full advantage of this opportunity to change their socio-economic status.

Let me stress that the state government is taking this proactive step to make the state the first port of call after the commencement of the revolution at the federal level.”

Also speaking at the occasion, Minister for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, lamented the challenge of importing wheat flour, disclosing Nigeria spends a whopping N635 billion every year to import wheat.

He said this was why the Federal Government planned and executed the option of securing an alternative to wheat bread, adding that cassava bread has been discovered to be more hygienic, nutritionally ballanced, safe and less costly than wheat bread.

Adesina disclosed further that Nigerians expend N10 billion on food importation annually which he said might thwart efforts to enhance local production to be able to attain set target of proposed 20 million jobs for Nigerians in 2015.

The Minister dismissed as false the rumour that cassava bread consumption increases or worsens diabetes in an individual, noting it had low glycemic index compared to wheat bread.

He reeled out the statistics: “The glycemic index for French bread is 95 which puts it in the very high range for diabetes; the popular English muffins have a glycemic index of 77, in the high range of diabetes. Now take whole wheat

•Winners at the ninth Bishop Mike Okonkwo Annual Essay Competition: from left, Asuzu Kamsi, 6th position, Famadewa Irenitemi, 5th position, Chinaza Okoli, 2nd position, and Sanusi Morenike, 8th position, all of Vivian Fowler Memorial College for Girls, Lagos State

flour bread which you all eat everyday; it has glycemic index of 71, again on the high side; that of cassava flour is put at 59 which is on the low side.”

The Minister added that the success of the initiative attracted other African countries like Malawi which, according to him, has expressed interest in learning the art and science of cassava bread making.

Adesina noted that countries like the United States and Britain had made substantial progress economically as they export valueadded products rather than unprocessed, primary products.

He said: “To get the cassava bread to the masses, it is critical to support our master bakers. Nigeria has over 400,000 master bakers.

They need access to equipment, finance and training. This is why Mr. President approved the establishment of Cassava Bread Development Fund.

He disclosed plans by his Ministry to join state governments to train master bakers and launch cassava bread in all 36 states of the federation, including the Federal Capital Territory.

He added, saying, “starter packs will be provided to master bakers in every state to kick off the commerciaslisation of the cassava bread by more than 400,000 master bakers across the country.”

Adesina explained that the latest effort was more than just cassava

bread as the Federal Government was ready to jumpstart an industrial revolution that would be anchored on cassava.

He said: “As other countries in Africa want to embrace cassava bread and reduce their imports of wheat, Nigeria is well positioned to become the leader. We can export cassava flour for bread to other countries. We are already exporting cassava chips to China.”

To get the cassava bread to the masses, it is critical to support our master bakers. Nigeria has over 400,000 master bakers.

They need access to equipment, finance and training

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

50

Foundation gives hope to the poor True happiness must arise from wellregulated affection, and affection includes a duty – Mary Wollstonecraft 1759-97, English Writer

By Sam Ekpe

T

HE Senator I.G. Foundation has helped to improve the health of residents of Enugwu Ukwu in Njikoka Local Government Area of Anambra State and its environs.

It was just what Senator Ikechukwu Godson Abana, its founder, had in mind.

He saw the health needs of his people and decided to make a difference.

The foundation looks after the well-being of the less-privileged people as well as the overall health needs of his people.

Established barely two-and-a-half years ago, it has made significant impact in Enugwu Ukwu, Njikoka Local Government Area of Anambra State and its environs.

Members of the Board of Trustees of the foundation include the Senator himself who represented Anambra Central Senatorial District in the Senate between 2003 and 2005.

He serves as chairman of the Board.

Others are Sir N. I. K. Abana, former Managing Director of Anambra Broadcasting Service (ABS), Rev. Gloria Uchefuna, a U.Sbased evangelist and Mr. Sam Ekpe.

Since the take-off of the foundation in April, 2010, it has vigorously embarked on programmes that have helped to alleviate the suffering of the lessprivileged. Its most popular programme is the free medical service that is held in the last week of December every year.

The maiden programme held on December 28 and 29, 2011 involved the treatment of 1,854 people. Four hundred and twenty-one people received eyeglasses while over 250 people were examined in the laboratory. The services of 18 medical doctors, four medical laboratory scientists, 13 nurses, one pharmacist, four pharmacy technicians, five community health extension workers and 28 volunteers were engaged for the two-day programme which cost the foundation a sum of N2.5m.

A similar programme was held on December 27, 2011. This time, there was health education in churches in Enugwu Ukwu, HIV counseling and

testing/awareness campaign, mass de-worming exercise and distribution of insecticide-treated nets in addition to the usual on-thespot clinical diagnosis, treatment and drug dispensation. The 2011 programme cost about the same amount as that of the previous year.

The foundation is arranging to conduct the 2012 programme in December this year. A new programme Old People’s Home has reached advanced stage of planning and execution. This programme is expected to add more years to senior citizens who have attained the age of 70 years and above.

Another key programme of the foundation that is having serious impact in the community is the scholarship awards to indigent students.

So far, a total of 48 university undergraduates and 81 secondary school students have benefited from the scholarship scheme of the foundation. More will join in the new academic session.

The value of the awards is N75,000 per session for each university student and N15, 000 per session for each secondary school student. It is significant to note that some of the beneficiaries of the scholarship scheme had already withdrawn from their institutions due to their inability to cope with the financial demands before the Abana Foundation came to their rescue.

The scholarship scheme has so far cost the foundation N4.815m.

Other poverty alleviation measures of the foundation include specialist health intervention and

•Medical personnel examining a patient foodstuff assistance schemes. These involve paying medical bills of critically-ill patients who cannot afford to pay their bills and distribution of foodstuff to widows and other very indigent people.

There is also the financial assistance programme in which petty traders and small-scale businessmen are given loans to improve their businesses.

These interest-free loans are refunded to the foundation after 12 months and redistributed to other people who need them.

So far, some beneficiaries have improved the scale of their business and made refunds. It is expected that this scheme will provide a ready pool of funds for genuine traders to make a success of their life ventures instead of staying idle at home and constituting social menace and security risk in the various communities.

Our society needs philanthropists like Senator I.G Abana to give the less-privileged people hope and future. He is not embarking on this project whose cost by December 2012 will run into hundreds of millions of Naira because he has so much money to throw around.

He may not have the fattest purse in the environment but he believes that giving a little from what God has blessed him with for the benefit, education and welfare needs of the less-privileged people in his community will reduce the very wide and yawning gap between the haves and the have-nots.

A Knight of the Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, he is

•Royal Ambassadors of Nigeria at their fifth national jamboree in Abuja

*Sam Ekpe is an Abuja-based Media and PR Consultant

Ogun steps up healthcare with ambulance services •Continued from Page 13

A total of 48 university undergraduates and 81 secondary school students have benefited from the scholarship scheme of the foundation. More will join in the new academic session

definitely serving the Lord in his own little way. As Christians, we believe that whoever gives and continues to give in the service of humanity will be rewarded. After all, the Holy Book says that it is better to given than to receive.

In the next few years, products of Senator Abana Foundation will stand up to be counted and it is the prayer of those of us on the Board of Trustees that the Lord will bless both the giver and receiver and the latter will be in a position to “go and do likewise”

Also, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Olaokun Soyinka, said a communication system has been put in place to enable speedy response to emergencies.

According to him, “a fleet controller, who is the emergency call centre coordinator, will be on the ground at all times and will be in contact with all ambulances and accident and emergency centres”.

He called on other stakeholders such as the state Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency (TRACE), Nigeria Police Force and those in Works and Transport sectors as well as other private enterprises such as the Critical Rescue International, to prevent emergencies arising from road crashes.

Dr. Soyinka disclosed that all the agencies form the “Road Safety Coalition” and their focus is to keep the roads structurally safe and well maintained, enforcing traffic rules, improving signage and responding promptly to accidents.

The Commissioner stated that the top range advanced life support ambulances would be located across the State and each of them will be

manned by a crew of trained personnel.

“Our crews have undergone extensive specialist training. For the first time in the state, we have purpose trained paramedics and this will in future be the minimum benchmark for all our crews”.

Warning all road users to desist from habits that could lead to accidents such as alcohol drinking, non-usage of helmets on motorbikes, over-speeding, nonusage of seat belts, amongst others, he emphasised that, if accidents occur, the public should remember to dial 122 for immediate medical attention.

“It is important to state here finally that as people are constantly travelling in and out of the state, lots of people could be faced with the number to call during emergencies and when in need of ambulance service. As we go about our daily thrust and seek to fulfill our regular commitment, we may be victims or witnesses of activities that demand emergency response. All you need do is remember number 122,” he said. * Oyelade wrote from Ogun State

52

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

We always solicit parents’ support in training these pupils. We always tell them that it’s not only the school administrators and teachers that need to train them. We need them to understand that the children are growing and they always want to have their way

‘Raise your children well’

P

ARENTS have been advised to be firm in raising their children.

The advice was given by the proprietor of Macdee The School, Alagbole Akute, Ogun State, Showunmi Michael Adeshina.

Adeshina said parents should not indulge their kids but train them with firmness.

Speaking after his school’s graduation ceremony held at the institution’s premises, Adeshina who also discouraged parents from leaving their children’s training to the school alone, stated that children tend to have things their own way but it behoves the parents to take their stand and insist that only the right things must be done.

He said: “We always solicit parents’ support in training these pupils. We always tell them that it’s not only the school administrators and teachers that need to train them.

“We need them to understand that the children are growing and they always want to have their way and it is (we) the elders, their seniors and parents that are supposed to put our feet down.

“Some parents will feel the child said this and that, and that is why they can’t force them to do what is right. We always advocate that they should help us stamp their feet

T

HE Buanchor, Katabang, Boje and Erimekpang communities in Boki, Cross River State have appealed to government and well-meaning individuals to come to their aid by providing potable water for people in the area.

The communities had lost all their sources of drinking water to the landslide which occurred about a month ago, and since then over 3,000 affected have been relying on rain water.

The plight of the people was worsened by the August break, necessitating their appeal for help from the government and other publi-spirited individuals or organisations.

To alleviate the situation, the state government had donated 4, 000 bags of sachet water to the

•The pupils in their traditional outfits

By Olusoji Olukayode down and insist on what is right for them and not just allowing them to have their way every time.”

The school graduated pupils from nursery to primary section while it sent forth eight. The eight pupils who bid the school farewell are

Omongbale Favour, Olubunmi Oluwalase, Akinola Damilade, Owolade Adenike and Coleman Benjamin. The rest are the topmost students the outgoing senior girl, Alabi Abimbola, outgoing senior boy, Oluwalana Oluwanifemi and Adewole Adegbenga who bagged the class’ first, second and third best

student, respectively.

In his speech at the occasion, Oluwalana Oluwafemi regretted he would not be able to continue his stay at the institution for the absence of a secondary section in the school.

He said: “How we wish Macdee is ready to start her own secondary

school so we can continue with this wonderful family of Macdee and be their first set. As the third set of Primary Six pass out of this school, we promise to be good ambassadors of the school. We pray that the school shall continue to go higher and higher in Jesus name.

Cross River landslide victims beg for water From Nicholas Kalu, Calabar

communities.

Some of the recipients, who spoke with our correspondent, described the gesture as good but expressed fears that unless the rains returned the water provided would only sustain the people for a while.

One of those affected by the landslide, Mr. Obi Attah, said “the branded water tasted good and cannot be sold by unscrupulous persons but how long can it take us.

Please, government should sink boreholes.”

Another victim, Madam Ketung Banku, lamented: “My brother, children are getting sick because of

the lack of drinking water. Our silted streams and rivers can only produce water for bathing and washing not at all for drinking.

Please, we need a permanent solution”.

Our correspondent, who visited some of the communities, observed that shallow wells were being dug on silted rivers and streams beds to get water for domestic use.

One of those digging such wells, Mr. Francis Taku, said, “wetin we go do? Water is essential, the sachet water at least can serve us while the drought lasts, but when it rains, our efforts would be jeopardised by the flooding that could accompany the

rains.”

They complained that the situation was getting out of hand and that they were considering relocating to other communities that have streams and rivers.

Director–General, Cross River State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) Mr. Vincent Aquah, who donated the bags of water, said that the gesture was to cushion the effect of the “ August break” drought.

He said arrangements have been concluded to start emergency

Expert makes case for herbal medicine

T

•About 300 tricycles acquired by Abia State government for distribution to youths

boreholes in the communities and that equipment for the project was being mobilised to site.

He however, lamented that due to the collapsed and washed-out bridges, there will be a serious challenge to access some communities with heavy duty equipment for the drilling project.

The Director-General assured that the state governor, Senator Liyel Imoke was committed to bringing succour to the people of the affected communities by meeting their essential needs.

HE National President of Herbal Therapy Society of Nigeria (HTSN), Dr. Akintunde Ayeni has said that Nigeria can earn up to 10 billion dollars per annum from production and marketing of herbal medicines.

Dr. Ayeni, who spoke at the inauguration and swearing-in ceremony of new officials of the Lagos State chapter of the association held recently at the Yemkem Plaza, Egbeda Lagos said that notable Nigerian herbal therapy practitioners have had huge successes in producing potent and reliable herbal drugs that can be used to combat different life-threatening ailments. He added that these medicines, when taken to the global scene, can be another source of income for the country.

He said: “Globalisation has reached the herbal drugs market.

Looking at the Nigerian market for example, we can see that there are Chinese and Indians herbal drugs

and some of our people prefer them to our indigenous herbal drugs. These countries are making it in herbal therapy and Nigeria can, if appropriate attention is given to the industry by the government, can fetch huge revenue.”

“We need to make our products known globally and this is why we set up the Herbal Therapy Society of Nigeria. So far, the association has recorded success on various concerns among which are; pioneering high quality standard of production and packaging of herbal medication in Nigeria.

“Others are initiating sound research procedures being conducted among members of the association to produce potent and reliable drugs for various ailments, fostering unity among the rank and file of all other herbal therapy associations nationwide, and playing leadership role towards the production and promotion of herbal medication to complement the healthcare delivery in Nigeria, among others.”

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

53

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

54

EQUITIES NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 6-9-12

Stocks rally as market surges

S

EVERAL stocks hit their highest prices yesterday as the Nigerian stock market continued its upswing, adding 0.84 per cent to push the average year-to-date return to 18.49 per cent.

Major manufacturing and financial services stocks rallied to new highs as widespread gains by equities added N65 billion to increase aggregate market capitalisation of all equities from N7.754 trillion to N7.819 trillion.

Healthcare multinational, GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Nigeria led the highflying equities with a gain of N1.54 to close at a high of N32.34 per share. Highestpriced conglomerate, Unilever Nigeria, consolidated its position with addition of N1.23 to close at a high of N37.43. Cadbury Nigeria trailed with a gain of N1.03 to close at this year’s high of N21.68.

In the banking sector, First Bank of Nigeria, Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB), Zenith Bank and Access Bank attained new highest prices.

First Bank chalked up 31 kobo to attain a new high of

By Taofik Salako and Tonia Osundolire

N14.11 per share. GTB consolidated its position as the highest-priced financial services stock with a gain of 27 kobo to close at N18.99.

Zenith Bank closed the gap with addition of 61 kobo to close at N16.40 while Access Bank reinforced its first tier presence with a gain of 19 kobo to close at N19.

Also, Lafarge Wapco Cement Nigeria rode on the back of the bull to peak at N46.57 per share after adding 26 kobo while International Breweries rose by 48 kobo to a high of N10.18.

Many other stocks sustained their highs including Nigeria Breweries, N123 per share; Nestle Nigeria, N550 and CAP Plc, which continued trading at a high of N29.15 per share.

With nearly three advancers to a decliner, the benchmark index at the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE)- the All Share Index (ASI), moved upward by 0.84 per cent to close at 24, 563.22 points compared with opening index of 24,358.62 points.

All other value indices at the NSE trended upward, reflecting the spread of the upswing. The NSE Banking Index indicated the rally within the sector with above average growth of 1.98 per cent to close at 387.68 points.

The NSE Lotus Islamic Index followed with an increase of 0.97 per cent to close at 1,449.40 points, indicating the rally within the manufacturing sector.

The NSE 30-Index, which tracks the 30 most capitalised stocks, gained 0.86 per cent to close at 1,150.95 points. The NSE Insurance Index improved by 0.63 per cent to close at 124.10 points.

The NSE Consumer Goods Index rose by 0.34 per cent to close at 2,067.62 points while the NSE Oil and Gas Index rose marginally by 0.07 per cent to close at 165.81 points.

Turnover stood at 286.4 million shares worth N2.66 billion in 4,313 deals. Banking sector accounted for 196.65 million shares valued at N1.75 billion in 2,488 deals. GTB was the most active stock with a turnover of 34.22 million shares valued at N647 million in 495 deals. Access Bank Plc trailed with a turnover of 31.85 million shares worth N254.8 million in 294 deals while United Bank for Africa Plc placed third with a turnover of 31.73 million shares valued at N146 million in 298 deals.

NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 6-9-12

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

55

MONEY LINK

CBN: New note’ll not raise inflation

C

ENTRAL Bank of Ni geria’s Deputy Gover nor, Kingsley Moghalu, yesterday said the proposed N5000 note will not raise inflation, but rather, decrease it, as Nigeria’s history suggests.

He spoke to journalists in Lagos at the venue of th funeral service for the former CBN Governor, Pa Ola Vincent. “Let me declare that there is no relationship between the N5000 note and inflation. As a matter of fact, our historical record showed that when the N1000 note was introduced to Nigeria, inflation reduced,” he

CBN Governor, Sanuai Lamido Sanusi, said the apex bank will go ahead with the proposition irrespective of any contrary opinion.

“We have a number of people making comments and they are entitled to their views, but the management of the country’s currency and monetary policy resides with the Central Bank, I should like to think but there are people who think otherwise,” he said.

He said Pa Vincent needs to be celebrated because he lived a life of an icon of the banking industry, a great

• Lauds late Governor OlaVincent

By Collins Nweze and Segun Balogun

said.

He said currency management is a regular job of the CBN and even Pa Vincent introduced some notes into the Nigerian currency system and it was never seen as an anti-economic action.

He said, likewise, the N5000 has been proposed for a number of goodwill reasons, majorly, the need for “more value in the country” and the fact that “N5000 note will reduce signifi-

cantly the cost of currency management in the country.”

“As I said about Pa Ola Vincent, he introduced a number of notes into the Nigerian currency system. What that means is that currency restructuring is a regular work of every Central Bank. Therefore, introduction of note is a matter of the judgment of the Central Bank which has the legal mandate to issue and manage legal tender,” he said.

Moghalu, who represented

Fed Govt to adopt IFRS standards

T

HE Federal Government yesterday said it is commited to adopting the International Financial Reporting System (IFRS) and the International Public Sector Accounting Standards at all levels.

The Accountant General of the Federation, Jonah Otunla, said this while briefing the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Senator Bala Mohammed, on the on-going sensitisation of the

From Bukola Amusan, Abuja

Federation Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC) sub-committee roadmap for adoption of IPSAS in the country.

The Federal Executive Council (FEC) had on July 28 approved the adoption of the provisions of the IFRS and IPSAS for private and the public sectors respectively.

He stated that the committee is working towards ensur-

ing a standardised uniform chart of accounts, budget and general purpose financial statements that will conform to international best practices, noting that the implementation process will assist in peer review mechanism of financial reports among the three tiers of government.

Otunla explained that the sub committee was set up to provide a roadmap for the adoption of IPSAS in the three

tiers of government across the federation at the meeting of FAAC held on June 13 last year.

He disclosed that “Several governemnts are adopting IPSAS as financial reporting standard because of its inherent qualities of promoting transparency and accountability and provides globally-acceptable systems for comparability of financial reporitng in governments

World Bank appoints Chief Economist President Jim Yong Kim, yesterday announced the appointment of Kaushik Basu, as the institution’s new Chief Economist and Senior Vice President.

Basu, an Indian national, most recently served as Chief Economic Adviser to the In-

dian government, while on leave from his position as Professor of Economics and the C. Marks Professor of International Studies at Cornell University. He begins his term October 1.

In a statement, the World Bank said Basu served as Chair-

man of Cornell’s Department of Economics and Director of Cornell’s Center for Analytic Economics and headed the Program Comparative Economic Development.

“Having worked in a Ministry of Finance, in addition to his impressive academic

achievements, Basu is uniquely suited to help us offer evidence-based solutions and advice to client countries and provide innovative excellence in leading our development research,” said World Bank Group President, Jim Yong Kim, said.

FGN BONDS Amount N

Rate %

M/Date

3-Year 5-Year 5-Year

35m 35m 35m

11.039 12.23 13.19

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

Price Loss 2754.67 447.80

INTERBANK RATES 7.9-10% 10-11%

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

Amount 30m 46.7m 50m

Rate % 10.96 9.62 12.34

Date 28-04-2012 “ 14-04-2012

GAINERS AS AT 6-8-12 SYMBOL

GLAXOSMITH CADBUDY DANGSUGAR FIDELITYBK ASHAKACEM INTBREW UBN BAGCO AGLEVENT HONYFLOUR

O/PRICE

30.80 20.65 4.63 1.41 10.70 9.70 5.89 1.64 1.23 1.85

C/PRICE

32.34 21.68 4.86 1.48 11.23 10.18 6.18 1.72 1.29 1.94

O/PRICE 0.81 6.35 2.09 1.05 0.84 0.66 4.90 2.30 0.51 1.12

C/PRICE 0.77 6.04 1.99 1.00 0.80 0.63 4.75 2.25 0.50 1.10

T

HE National President Unity Market Leaders and Traders Association of Nigeria, Daniel Nwafor, has called for increased enlightenment of its members on the cash-less policy of the Central Bank of Nigeria to enable them key in into the initiative.

Speaking with The Nation in Lagos, he said the business community should be fully carried along.

He said some of businessmen do not have the time to even listen to news. “They move out early in the morning and come back late in the night. Government doesn’t understand what we are facing. It is affecting us seriously in the sense that we are not being carried

Ambrose Nnaji

along,” he lamented.

According to him, to ensure the workability of the policy government must liaise with the unity market leaders association and the traders association to organise seminars, workshops for their members. This he said, will assist their members key into the system.

Unity market leaders comprises all united leaders of different markets including traders that have grown beyond the circular market and traders on the streets.

Nwafor said group was established to unite every business in the country irrespective of tribe, language or religion.

CHANGE 0.04 0.31 0.10 0.05 0.04 0.03 0.15 0.05 0.01 0.02

Exchange Rate (N) 155.2 155.8 155.7

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

CAPITAL MARKET INDEX Year Start Offer

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

Current Before

C u r r e n t CUV Start After %

147.6000 239.4810 212.4997

149.7100 244.0123 207.9023

150.7100 245.6422 209.2910

-2.11 -2.57 -1.51

149.7450

154.0000

154.3000

-3.04

152.0000

153.0000

155.5000

-2.30

153.0000

154.0000

156.0000

-1.96

DISCOUNT WINDOW Feb. ’11

July ’11

Dec ’11

MPR

6.50%

6.50%

12%

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

8.50% 4.50% 25.00% 1.00% 12.10%

8.50% 4.50% 25.00% 2.00% 12.10%

9.50% 5.50% 30.00% 2.00% 12.6%

7 Days 30 Days 60 Days 150 Days

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

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

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

% Change -1.44% -1.44%

MEMORANDUM QUOTATIONS Offer Price

Bid Price

9.17 1.00 124.37 100.11 0.77 1.10 0.93 1,740.52 9.75 1.39 1.87 8,308.39 193.00 1.67

9.08 1.00 124.22 108.78 0.74 1.10 0.91 1,737.02 9.28 1.33 1.80 8,086.24 191.08 1.62

ARM AGGRESSIVE KAKAWA GUARANTEED STANBIC IBTC GUARANTE AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUND LOTUS CAPITAL HALAL BGL SAPPHIRE FUND BGL NUBIAN FUND NIGERIA INTERNATIONAL DEB. PARAMOUNT EQUITY FUND CONTINENTAL UNIT TRUST CENTRE-POINT UNIT TRUST STANBIC IBTC NIG EQUITY THE DISCOVERY FUND FIDELITY NIGFUND • ARM AGGRESSIVE • KAKAWA GUARANTEED • STANBIC IBTC GUARANTE • AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUND

NIBOR Tenor

NSE CAP Index

Name

CHANGE

1.54 1.03 0.23 0.07 0.53 0.48 0.29 0.08 0.06 0.09

Amount Sold ($) 150m 138m 113m

EXHANGE RATE 6-03-12

LOSERS AS AT 6-8-12

SYMBOL DNMEYER MORISON PAINTCOM EVANSMED TRANSCORP UTC NASCON ETERNA GOLDINSURE IKEJAHOTEL

Group calls for increased awareness on cash-less

Amount Amount Offered ($) Demanded ($) 350m 150m 350m 138m 350m 113m

Currency OBB Rate Call Rate

Agricultural Credit Guarantee Scheme (ACGS) was also conceived, launched and funds set aside during his tenure.

WHOLESALE DUTCH AUCTION SYSTEM

MANAGED FUNDS

NIDF NESF

• Moghalu

DATA BANK

Tenor

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

family man and a true Nigerian patriot.

“We all will look at his life from our own perspective and we at the CBN, will remember him as one of the great leaders of our dear institution and an eminent personality who helped in achieving our mandates,” he said.

Other achievements of Pa Vincent were that between 1978 and 1981, he opened 10 CBN branches, namely: Sokoto, Ilorin, Calabar, Bauchi, Abeokuta, Akure, Owerri, Makurdi, Yola and Minna, which by 1981, brought to 18 the number of CBN Branches.

Also, the hugely popular

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

Movement

OPEN BUY BACK

Bank P/Court

Previous 04 July, 2011

Current 07, Aug, 2011

8.5000 8.0833

8.5000 8.0833

Movement

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

56

NEWS OKOPOLY signs MoU with Indian varsity From Nwanosike Onu, Awka

T

•Anambra State Governor Perter Obi (second right); Director Of Human Resources, Federal Ministry of Aviation, Mr. John Anyawu (left); Director-General, National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mr. Mike Omeri (second left); and the Traditional Ruler of Ndi-ikelionwu, Chief Chukwuemeka Ike; at the inauguration of the Citizen’s Responsibility Volunteer Scheme in Awka, the state capital...yesterday.

A

CD hails Obi, police on demolition of kidnappers den

CIVIL society group, the Campaign for Democracy (CD), Southeast zone, has praised Anambra State Governor Peter Obi for authorising the demolition of the home of a kidnap kingpin in Oraifite, Ekwusigo Local Government Area.

Speaking with reporters yesterday in Onitsha, Southeast CD Chairman Dede Uzor said the governor’s action would reduce crime in the state.

CD hailed Commissioner of Police Bala Nasarawa for his dedication to duty, which it said led to the discovery of the cache of arms, following a tip off.

Uzor said: “CD is very happy that the governor has finally acted on our recommendation that any building housing kidnappers and armed robbers should be pulled down.

“We hail Obi and Nasarawa, as well as the Officer in-charge of the Special Anti Robbery Squad (SARS),

•‘Anambra on the way to Promised Land’ From Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, Nnewi

Mr. James Nwafor, for their proactive action in demolishing the house of the kidnap kingpin.

“CD also praises the CP for giving his men the free hand to operate, which led to the smashing of the kidnap syndicate and the recovery of the arms and ammunition.”

The CD Chairman said the recovery is the highest ever recorded in the history of the state and praised the intelligence gathering mechanism of the SARS operatives, which led to the discovery of the arms and ammunition.

The arms were concealed in a rubber tank.

Uzor said: “CD recommends that the SARS Commander, Mr. James Nwafor,

be promoted for his gallantry and effort in giving the police a new image in Abia, which include building a 20-unit house within the office premises for the operatives, among others.”

He called for total overhaul of Fegge Police Division, owing to “established abuse of power, violation of human rights and an upsurge of violent crimes within the division”.

Also yesterday, a community leader in Onitsha, Chief Stephen Okeke, said Obi’s transformation agenda would lead Anambra to the Promised Land.

In a statement, Okeke said in the 21-years history of the state, Obi has distinguished himself as an achiever.

With reference to the visit

Robbers steal N2m from Anambra ministry

T

HREE robbers on Wednesday stole N2 million from the premises of the Anambra State Ministry of Lands.

The incident occurred about 12 noon.

The Nation gathered that the suspects trailed two people from a new generation bank in Awka, where the money was withdrawn, to the ministry.

A source said: “Immediately they arrived in the ministry, the hoodlums stopped them.

They quietly collected the polythene bag containing the money at gun point and left the premises.”

It was learnt that the money was withdrawn by a director in the ministry, but no one could tell what the money was meant for.

From Nwanosike Onu, Awka

A source said the Commissioner for Lands, Mr. Okoli Akirika, was not aware of the withdrawal and was embarrassed when he learnt about the incident.

The source said: “Only the said director can explain why the money was withdrawn. You know a lot of deals go on in the ministry without the knowledge of the commissioner. May be it was one of such deals that involved a few persons.”

When The Nation visited the ministry yesterday about 11.45am, its two gates were locked. Visitors were not allowed in by security men, who said they were acting on an order from the ministry.

Council chairman escapes arrest

T

HE intervention of Anambra State Governor Peter Obi and the Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, Mrs. Azuka Enemuo, yesterday saved a transition local government chairman in Onitsha from being arrested by security agents.

After a meeting of transition chairmen at the Government House in Awka, the state capital, the security operatives attempted to arrest the chairman (names withheld).

But the chairman wisely dislodged them and ran into Mrs. Enemuo’s office, where the governor was contacted.

Sources said the chairman’s offence was the demolition of the Mosque at the Onitsha Head

From Nwanosike Onu, Awka

Bridge, which was directed by the state government.

The mosque was erected in an unauthorised place and was demolished.

Sources said the Muslim community was not happy with the development and it reported the matter to a federal authority, which led to the attempt to arrest the chairman.

Obi invited the security operatives and the chairman to the Governor’s Lodge at Amawbia, where the issue was resolved.

of President Goodluck Jonathan to Anambra last week, Okeke said the governor is revolutionising everything, including the concept of state visits.

He said, until now, Nigerians interpreted presidential visit as a three or fourday jamboree, when everything else comes to a halt in the state being visited.

Okoko said: “Like we had in 2010, the President’s visit last week was a day’s affair.

The governor wanted it so to save money and working hours. A one-day visit allows both the visitor and the host to concentrate on the business of the day.

“Nigerians see state visits as the inauguration of projects executed by the state government, but in Obi’s case, each

time the President visits, it is to inaugurate industrial complexes built by private individuals and sometimes in collaboration with the state government.

“In 2010, the President inaugurated Innoson Motor Manufacturing Company, Nnewi, and Juhel Pharmaceutical, Awka. Last week, he inaugurated SABmiller Brewries, Krisoral and Orange Drugs. By so doing, the governor is encouraging and expanding the industrial base of the state, thus creating jobs.”

Okeke praised the inauguration of Orient Petroleum facility, which made Anambra the 10th oil producing state in Nigeria, and the Onitsha River Port.

Okeke lauded Obi’s “many gestures” towards industrialising the state, including the naming of streets after industrialists that invest in the state and the building of roads leading to industrial sites.

HE Federal Polytechnic, Oko (OKOPOLY), Anambra State, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Sharda University, India, led

by Dr. Harl Sagar.

OKOPOLY Rector Prof.

Godwin Onu yesterday said the MoU is to develop human capital in the institution.

Speaking at the International Symposium on the Impact of Nanotechnology and Renewable Energy Technology on the Society, which was held at the institution, Onu said the MoU was for inter-cultural and educational exchange programmes.

He said: “More effective methods of doing things are key factors to a functional economy and a vibrant democracy.”

Onu said a department of Nano Science and Technology would soon be established in the polytechnic.

He said: “We are using this opportunity of the visit of the team from India to organise an international symposium in a new area of science, Nanotechnology and Renewable Energy Science, with a view to introducing a new way of doing things.”

CHANGE OF NAME IBELIEVE

I formerly known and addressed as IBELIEVE OSIA now wish to be known and addressed as STANLEY IBELIEVE GEWERE OSIA, All former documents remain valid. Nigeria Embassy, Ireland and general public should take note.

MIEBAIKE I formerly known and addressed as MISS. BEATRICE TIMI MIEBAIKE now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. BEATRICE TIMI EKANEM. All former documents remain valid.

NYSC and general public please take note.

AKEWUSOLA I,formerly known and addressed as MASTER YUNUSA AKEWUSOLA, now wish to be known and addressed as MR ORIYOMI YUNUSA SABITU. All former documents remain valid.Eti-Osa East L.C.D.A and General Public should take Note.

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

57

NEWS Bayelsa to reduce council workers

Four Igbinedion Varsity lecturers die in car crash

F

OUR lecturers of the Igbinedion University, Okada in Edo State, died in an accident on Wednesday on the Benin-Lagos Expressway.

They are Mr. Morgan Uwaghiren, Mr. Lucky Ehiorobo, Mrs. Shirley Imade and Miss Shola Ajayi, all of the Department of Banking as well as Finance and Business Administration.

The accident occurred on the Ovia Bridge. The victims were said to be returning from Okada, Ovia North East Local Government Area, to Benin, when their vehicle fell into the Ovia River.

The Unit Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Benin Tollgate, Mr. Ameen Adewale, said they received a phone call on their 122 toll-free line that a vehicle had plunged into the Ovia River about 3:30pm on Wednesday.

Adewale said they engaged local divers, who discovered the vehicle in the water about 7pm.

A rescue operation began at 8am yesterday.

The vehicle and the bodies of two of the victims were evacuated about 12 noon.

According to Adewale, an eyewitness said the driver of the Audi 80 car, marked BF 438 USL, was trying to avoid a truck, whose driver took the wrong lane, when the accident occurred.

He advised motorists to al-

B

From Osagie Otabor, Benin

ways respect road safety laws.

Igbinedion University spokesman Emeka Okika and relatives of the victims were on the scene.

Mr. Joel Obayagbona, who said he attended the same school with the late Miss Ajayi, described her as “a very nice person”.

Her father wept profusely, saying: “I have lost my daughter.”

A member of the fire service, who pleaded for anonymity, said the bridge is in a “very sorry state” and urged the Federal Government to repair it.

The incident caused a heavy traffic on the bridge. Many people came out of their vehicles to catch a glimpse of the rescue operation.

Last November, former FRSC Zonal Commander Mr. Yakubu Attah called for the repair of the Ovia River Bridge.

He said: “No amount of money can prevent accidents on our roads, if we do not put things into proper perspective. I have always suggested that the Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA) and the FRSC should work together for better results. The Ovia River Bridge has claimed many lives in less than three months due to accidents, many of which are avoidable.”

• .The rescue team trying to pull the vehicle out of the river.

•The rescue team pulling out the vehicle...yesterday.

Cross River ACN protests PAC’s failure to set up appeal panel

M

EMBERS of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in Cross River State yesterday took to the streets of Calabar, the state capital, to protest the alleged reluctance of the President of the Appeal Court (PAC), Justice Dalhatu Adamu, to set up an Election Appeal Panel.

The protest was led by the State Chairman, Mr. Hillard Eta; Elder David Okon and Secretary of the party’s Elders’ Forum Mr. Eyo Ekpo, among others.

Edo NUJ gets four-man panel From, Osemwengie Ben Ogbemudia, Benin

T

HE National Secretariat of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has set up a caretaker committee to run the affairs of its Edo state chapter for three months, within which a fresh election would be conducted.

The committee is headed by Tunde Egberemole of The Observer. Members are Beauty Eghobamien of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Friday Isewede and Simon Ebegbulem.

In a statement, NUJ National Secretary Shuaibu Leman said: “A four-man Interim Management Committee has been set up to oversee the activities of the council and to organise fresh elections into the various offices of the union within three months.

“The former executive, led by Friday Obanor, has been directed to hand over all union property in its possession to the Interim Management Committee and to cooperate fully with the committee to ensure a smooth transition.”

From Nicholas Kalu, Calabar

The ACN challenged the victory of Governor Liyel Imoke of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the February 25 governorship election at the Governorship Election Tribunal.

It claimed that PDP did not conduct a fresh primary before the election, but the tribunal’s July 17 judgment was in favour of the PDP. The ACN disagreed with the judgment and went on to ap-

peal, but the party said the Appeal Court President has refused to set up a panel to hear its panel.

The appeal panel is expected to hear the appeal within 60 days of the tribunal’s ruling and only a few days are left for the time frame to expire.

The protesters marched around the Appeal Court premises, carrying placards with inscriptions, such as: “Adamu, set up the appeal panel”; “Haba: Adamu, what a conspiracy”; and “we can now understand the reason Salami

was ousted”, among others.

Eta, in a petition to the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) on Wednesday, entitled “Conspiracy to scuttle the ends of justice”, alleged “high level conspiracy to scuttle the appeal filed on August 6.”

He said: “It is strange that with just 10days to the expiration of the 60 days allowed by the constitution for the hearing and determination of Election Petition Appeal, no appeal panel has been set for Cross River State, for an election Petition which is sui generis.”

ACN urged the CJN to “intervene in the interest of justice and our democracy”.

The party’s standard bearer in the election, Pastor Usani Usani, had earlier requested the PAC to ensure speedy constitution of the panel.

Speaking after the protest, Eta alleged that the PAC’s refusal to set up the panel reveals a ploy to truncate democracy in the state.

He said the move was capable of causing anarchy and called on relevant authorities to intervene in the matter.

ASUU to boycott exams as RSUST crisis deepens

M

EMBERS of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) at the Rivers State University of Science and Technology (RSUST), Port Harcourt, have threatened to shun the second semester examinations slated from September 17.

The union has been on strike since August 13 in protest of the reappointment of Prof. Barineme Fakae as the Vice-Chancellor by Governor Rotimi Amaechi, who says he relied on the law to do so.

RSUST ASUU Chairman Dr. Felix Igwe gave the hint yesterday during a telephone interview. Igwe said due process must be followed in appointing a VC for Nigeria’s pioneer state university of science and technology.

Amaechi, on Monday, described ASUU’s nationwide solidarity strike of August 30 as uncalled for and told the lecturers to pursue their case in court.

From Bisi Olaniyi, Port Harcourt

He directed the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mr. George Feyii, to ensure that Fakae is appointed as the university’s substantive helmsman, instead of acting vice-chancellor.

In a statement on Tuesday, RSUST Registrar Mrs. Daba Odimabo announced that the second semester examinations would begin on September 17, despite ASUU’s indefinite strike, adding that the academic calendar would not be amended.

It was learnt that the national ASUU leadership is contemplating a nationwide indefinite strike to compel Amaechi to reverse Fakae’s reappointment.

Igwe yesterday said: “Fakae was reappointed an acting capacity on July 31, 2012. Amaechi making Fakae the substantive VC, despite of the protests and strike, is quite unfortunate.

“That will be another mis-

‘Amaechi and the Chairman of the Governing Council/ Pro-Chancellor of RSUST, Justice Adophus KaribiWhyte, are using crude and draconian techniques, including unconventional manipulation, to impose a VC that has been rejected by the system on the system. This is the truth’ take by the visitor (Amaechi).

Is this how a university is run? Imposition and impunity are alien to a university system. It will destroy the serene atmosphere required for excellence and creativity to thrive.

“The union would use any

legitimate means available to ensure that the proper procedure is followed in the administration of our university system.”

Commenting on the statement by the registrar, Igwe said: “It will be in the interest of all to address the problems on ground, instead of deceiving the public with statements to suggest that all is well.”

On Amaechi’s statement that ASUU should challenge his decision in court, Igwe said: “That is the visitor’s personal opinion. ASUU is at liberty to analyse and decide the best approach to confront the challenges before it.

“Amaechi and the Chairman of the Governing Council/Pro-Chancellor of RSUST, Justice Adophus KaribiWhyte, are using crude and draconian techniques, including unconventional manipulation, to impose a VC that has been rejected by the system on the system. This is the truth.”

AYELSA State Deputy Governor Gboribiogha John Jonah yesterday said the state government would carry out a staff rationalisation in the eight local government areas.

He said the move would enhance efficiency in service delivery.

Jonah, a retired Rear Admiral, spoke at the Government House in Yenagoa, the state capital, at a meeting with chairmen of the council’s verification teams and the state Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), who also the Chairman of Kolokuma/Opokuma Council, Chief Ebikitin Diongoli.

The deputy governor said the councils can effectively function with less than half of their present workforce.

He said steps would be taken to reposition the councils and make them more accountable to the people.

Jonah said the government would provide an alternative means of livelihood for those to be affected by the rationalisation.

He said the government would create an institutionalised local government system devoid of sharp practices to effectively deliver the dividends of democracy to the grassroots.

Jonah blamed the laxity at the council level on the nonchalant disposition of the previous Local Government Service Commission.

The deputy governor said the era of council chairmen taking loans to augment their over-bloated wage bills and other expenditure.

In their separate presentations, chairmen of the verification teams for Brass, Yenagoa, Ogbia, Kolokuma/Opokuma and Sagbama councils suggested the re-organisation of the local government administration to check the excesses of certain categories of employees and wastage.

Oyerinde: Court defers ruling on Ugolor’s N0.5b suit From Osagie Otabor, Benin

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N Edo State High Court, presided over

by Justice Esther Edigin, yesterday deferred judgment in the N500 million suit instituted by a detained activist, Rev. David Ugolor, against the Nigerian Police Force.

Ugolor was arrested on July 27 in connection with the murder of the Private Secretary to Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole, Comrade Olaitan Oyerinde, after a suspect, Garuba Maisamari, fingered him as the sponsor.

Justice Edigin, on August 16, ordered the police to release Ugolor and fixed yesterday for judgment in the suit.

Counsel to the police Mr. David Abuo urged the court to defer the judgment to enable the police make proper representation.

Lead counsel to Ugolor Mr. Olayiwola Afolabi countered the motion and argued that the respondents were in contempt of court, having disobeyed the August 16 order.

Justice Edigin said the motion by the police must be considered and adjourned ruling on the motion till September 14.

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

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NEWS Gunmen attack Corps members in Jalingo GUNMEN yesterday attacked Christian Corps members at the Federal Government Girls’ College (FGGC), Jalingo, Taraba State. They stole thousands of Naira.

A source said the bandits, who stormed the Family House of the Redeemed Christian Corpers Fellowship (RCCF), held the Corps members hostage for hours after dispossessing them of their money and valuables.

The source said the robbers gained entry into the Corps members’ lodge through a toilet in the female wing of the building and stole three laptops, 24 mobile phones and thousands of naira.

“Twenty corps members were in the lodge when the incident occurred. Our phones and monthly allowances were stolen.”

A corps member who preferred anonymity said: “We were sleeping when some hoodlums entered our lodge. They were armed with dangerous weapons. We could not confront them because we were afraid. They asked us our state of origin and religion, threatening to behead us if we were not submissive. “ The RCCF president, Banji Omogbehin, said the motive of the attack was unknown because “the bandits asked us our state of origin. They threatened to rape our ladies and behead us.”

Officials of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) who visited the corps members said the incident would be investigated.

Police spokesman Amos Olaoye said the case is not robbery but burglary and stealing.

“I can confirm the attack.

It is not robbery. We have not arrested anybody. We are still investigating the incident.”

The case has been reported at the GRA Police Division.

Seven dead as floods destroy houses, farms in Katsina S

EVEN people have died and thousands of houses and 146 farmlands destroyed in floods in Katsina State.

The Executive Director of the Rehabilitation and Emergency Relief Agency (RERA), Alhaji Hassan Rawayau, who spoke yesterday with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Katsina, said 15 of the 34 local governments were affected and listed the

affected councils as Mai’adua, Kusada, Kurfi, Batsari, Safana, Jibia, Katsina and Bindawa.

Others are Kankia, Ingawa, Dutsi, Daura, Sandamu, Matazu and Mani local governments.

According to him, two persons died in Safana, Mani

and Daura local governments and one in Kurfi Council.

“Thousands of houses were destroyed by the floods in the affected local governments. 146 farms were destroyed in Kusada area.”

The director said the agen-

cy had resettled victims at Randawa village in Mani Local Government, adding that efforts were ongoing to send relief materials to them.

He said millions of naira worth of relief materials donated to the state by the National Emergency Relief Agency (NEMA) would soon be distributed to the victims.

Rawayau appealed to them to consider the flood as an act of God.

Benue seeks more patronage from Fed Gov

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OVERNOR Gabriel Suswam of Benue State yesterday led a delegation of more than 100 Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)stalwarts in the state to visit the party’s secretariat in Abuja.

He solicited more appointments and patronage from the Federal Government.

Those on the entourage were the National and State Assembly members, ministers, state and local government party executives, members of the executive council

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From Uja Emmanuel, Makurdi

as well as other prominent citizens and elders.

Governor Suswam said since 1999, the state has supported the party and that as a result, it deserves more patronage through projects and appointments at the federal level.

According to him, Benue was a solid PDP base during last year’s poll, as the party won 20 of the 30 House of Assembly seats, eight of the

11 House of Representatives seats, two of the three senatorial seats and the governorship election.

The National Chairman of the party, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, hailed the visit. He said he has had a cordial relationship with the indigenes over the years.

Tukur said the PDP would embark on reconciliation, reformation and fulfilled the campaign promises made to the electorate.

He urged the governor to embark on a reconciliation

From Marie-Therese Nanlong, Jos

with the elders and stakeholders from Berom and Fulani communities, Police Commissioner Emmanuel Ayeni said the police have decided to deal with trouble makers since peaceful approaches such as appeals and dialogues have failed.

He said the names of the people involved in the killings, burning and destruction of property should be forwarded to the command for investigation.

“We assure you of justice.

We are determined to stop this lawlessness. We want to restore peace to Barkin Ladi, Riyom and other local gov-

From Bukola Amusan, Abuja

•Suswam

to bring back to the PDP fold, members who have defected to other parties.

ernments.”

Ayeni urged the elders in both communities to expose trouble makers or be held liable for any attack.

He enjoined the Transition Committee Chairman of Barkin Ladi Local Government to constitute a peace committee comprising the DPO, traditional leaders from the Fulani and Berom, security operatives and youth leaders by next Monday to deliberate on the ways of attaining peace.

By Damilola Owoyele

•From right: His Eminence, Dr. Lazarus Onyeleonu, the Baba Aladura of the Eternal Sacred Order of Cherubim and Seraphim; Assistant Secretary, Administration, Elder (Dr.) Harold Demuren; Deputy Baba Aladura, Elder Edwin Eze and Secretary to the Holy Order, Elder (Dr.) Dabaye Bob-Manuel, at a press conference on the state of the nation, held in Lagos...yesterday.

PHOTO: DAYO ADEWUNMI

59 women aspirants jostle for chairman, councillor

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IFTY-nine female aspirants in Benue State have signified interest in the chairman and councillor elections on the platform of the three major political parties in the state.

They are the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) and All Nigeria Peoples Party (PDP).

Investigation showed that of the number, 15 are vying for the chairman and 44 for councillor in the 23 local governments.

It further showed that for chairman, 12 of the aspirants are seeking nomination on the platform of the PDP. Three are in the ACN. The PDP has 32 women aspiring to be councillors,

ACN has 11 and ANPP, one.

Forty-four councillorship aspirants have picked forms to seek nomination of the 276 slots in the forthcoming council poll.

The women aspirants are alleging imposition of candidates on the electorate and the use of money to induce the people.

One of them, Mrs. Ann

FINAL OK

HE Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) is working on the legal and administrative framework for the establishment of the FCT Security Trust Fund.

FCT Minister, Senator Bala Mohammed, who spoke yesterday when he received five security vehicles donated by the MTN Nigeria to the Federal Capital Territory, said the security trust fund would be run by a constituted Board of Trustees comprising people of impeccable character.

He said this was to ensure that the funds realised were used for the purpose they were meant.

According to him, the residents of the Federal Capital Territory who are also stakeholders will be carried along by running it in consonance with the Transformation Agenda of President Goodluck Jonathan.

Senator Mohammed called for the understanding of the FCT residents.

He said: “The Transformation Agenda has been deepened with this single act of MTN Nigeria, as the company has lived up to its corporate social responsibility.”

He urged other corporate organisations in the Federal Capital Territory to emulate “this kind gesture of MTN Nigeria by partnering the government to contribute to the security of life and property in Abuja.”

Mohammed assured that the vehicles would be used by the security agencies for the purpose they were donated and the FCT Administration would support them with the running cost.

He lamented the destruction of telecommunications masts by unknown gunmen in some parts of the country and thanked the firm for the security emergency telephone lines provided to the security agencies free of charge.

The MTN Executive Director, Corporate Services, Mr. Akinwale Goodluck, said his company donated the security vehicles with state of art communication equipment because no business would flourish in an insecure environment.

He said MTN Nigeria recently donated modern dialysis equipment to the Abuja National Hospital to reduce the hardship faced by patients.

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Clergy urges fast, prayer THE Prelate of the Mount Zion Eternal Sacred Order of the Cherubim and Seraphim Church, Elder Lazarus Onyeleonu, has urged Nigerians to fast and pray on Independence Day. He said: “I am worried because of the insecurity and other problems facing the country. We should fast and pray on October 1 because we need divine intervention.”

The cleric, who spoke with reporters at the Surulere, Lagos headquarters of the church, said he supported the Federal Government that the celebration should be lowkey because the economy was not buoyant.

He hailed the efforts of the Federal Government to solve power outage, noting that there had been improvement in electricity supply. He said this should be sustained.

A

UNITED Kingdombased consultant, Dr. Olumide Adeotoye, will tomorrow deliver a lecture at the Discovery for Men Forum. The event will be held at the Fountain of Life Church, Ilupeju, Lagos.

It is part of the yearly activities of the church.

Dr. Adeotoye, a consultant at the Lagoon Hospital, will speak on the topic: “Your Health, Your Business.”

Abuja to get security trust fund

Police go tough on trouble makers in Plateau

HE Plateau State Police Command, disturbed by last weekend’s hostilities in Barkin Ladi Local Government, has resolved to go tough on trouble makers, as peaceful approaches and dialogues have not yielded good result.

It said the people involved in the crisis, especially at Ruku and Sho villages where tension is mounting, would be punished.

In a meeting yesterday

UK consultant to deliver lecture

Makama, was apprehensive that the poll might be hijacked by money bags.

She lamented that money politics had affected women’s participation in the poll, adding that they were not supported by the government.

Some gender-based nongovernmental organisations (NGOs) have promised to support the women aspirants.

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THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

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NEWS ERA, WAPCO disagree on CSR claim

Reforming electricity in Nigeria The president’s most vaunted reform is flagging but must be revived

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LTHOUGH Nigeria has almost as many inhabitants as Brazil, it produces only 5% of the electricity. Many Nigerian leaders have tried to boost the state’s power supply, but many more have become rich by obstructing it, earning fees from private generation and stealing official funds meant for new power plants. When he was elected last year, President Goodluck Jonathan promised to make electricity reform his big thing, hoping to transform the lives of millions of Nigerians who have spent decades in the dark.

But the resignation of his power minister on August 28th over a conflict of interest has exposed the rot in a process that seemed to be running relatively smoothly.

Bartholomew (“Barth”) Nnaji, a respected technocrat who had been minister of power since last year, was meant to sell six generating companies and 11 distribution companies. Months ago he declared that a firm in which he owns shares held in a trust was involved in the bidding. It is not unusual for Nigerian politicians to engage in business overseen by their office; what is unusual is for any of them to resign.

Mr. Nnaji’s supporters say that opponents of privatisation belatedly and unfairly engineered his departure. “Nnaji was the best person for the job,” says an adviser at the presidential task-force on the reform of power. “But he was getting in the way of other interests.”

The minister had certainly made enemies. He took on trade unions opposed to mass job cuts.

A key aspect of privatisation is unbundling the Power Holding Company of Nigeria, a bloated and ill-managed monopoly, with thousands of “ghost” workers on the payroll. Twofifths of the staff are apparently listed as drivers. Mr. Nnaji tried for months to negotiate redundancy terms, as otherwise serious investors are unlikely to bid. It remains to be seen whether the unions have won the battle.

Privatisation may be delayed.

Mr. Nnaji also warred with the vice-president, Namadi Sambo, who owns companies with interests in the public power sector, oversees the government’s national privatisation council and heads a programme to build ten new state power stations that Mr Nnaji hoped to privatise. This may have hastened his departure.

Worrying signs have also emerged over transparency.

Watchdogs were at the last minute relegated from being active participants in evaluating bids to observers, says a consultant. Their role is important because firms may win bids with lofty promises but fail to get finance or honour their contracts. This has hampered past privatisations. The current list of bidders is longer than expected and includes many local firms. Preferred bidders may be announced next month.

According to the government, the power sector needs $10 billion of investment a year for at least a decade. Mr Nnaji’s resignation is troubling investors who feel he brought expertise to a process that had previously

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Mr Nnaji’s resignation is troubling investors who feel he brought expertise to a process that had previously been paralysed by corruption.

Watched by foreign development agencies, eligible bidders have so far been selected in a clean and efficient manner. When a bid from Nigeria’s richest tycoon, Aliko Dangote, arrived apparently minutes late, it was rejected

’

been paralysed by corruption.

Watched by foreign development agencies, eligible bidders have so far been selected in a clean and efficient manner. When a bid from Nigeria’s richest

•Nnaji

tycoon, Aliko Dangote, arrived apparently minutes late, it was rejected.

Most important for investors, a new tariff system, which will see a gradual increase in electricity prices over the next two years, came into effect in June. It is meant to ensure profitability.

President Jonathan imposed the new tariffs despite worries that they would spark mass protests.

In January Nigeria came to a standstill when he removed fuel subsidies.

He partially reinstated them. This time, taking no chances, he agreed to new electricity subsidies for the poorest households for at least two years. But he no longer has a high-profile power minister to hide behind.

•Minister of Trade and Investment Olusegun Aganga (second left), president and chairman of Council, Institute of Directors (IoD) Mr. Thomas Awagu, Director-General/CEO, Institute of Directors, Nigeria, Mr. Akin Ajayi,and Area Head of Legal, British American Tobacco West Africa, Mrs. Sade Morgan (right) at the institute’s Advocacy Roundtable in Lagos... yesterday

‘Americans...,you must re-elect Obama’ •Continued from page 47 Now let’s talk about the debt. Today, interest rates are low, lower than the rate of inflation. People are practically paying us to borrow money, to hold their money for them. But it will become a big problem when the economy grows and interest rates start to rise. We’ve got to deal with this big long-term debt problem or it will deal with us. It’ll gobble up a bigger and bigger percentage of the federal budget we’d rather spend on education and health care and science and technology. We’ve got to deal with it.

Now, what has the president done? He has offered a reasonable plan of $4 trillion in debt reduction over a decade, with $2.5 trillion coming from — for every $2.5 trillion in spending cuts, he raises a dollar in new revenues, 2.5 to 1.

And he has tight controls on future spending. That’s the kind of balanced approach proposed by the Simpson-Bowles commission, a bipartisan commission.

Now, I think this plan is way better than Governor Romney’s plan.

First, the Romney plan fails the first test of fiscal responsibility: The numbers just don’t add up.

I mean, consider this. What would you do if you had this problem? Somebody says, “Oh, we’ve got a big debt problem.

We’ve got to reduce the debt.’’ So what’s the first thing he says we’re going to do? “Well, to reduce the debt, we’re going to have another $5 trillion in tax cuts, heavily weighted to upper-income people.

So we’ll make the debt hole bigger before we start to get out of it.’’

Now, when you say, “What are you going to do about this $5 trillion you just added on?’’ They say, “Oh, we’ll make it up by eliminating loopholes in the tax code.’’ So then you ask, “Well, which loopholes? And how much?’’ You know what they say? “See me about that after the election.’’

I’m not making it up. That’s their position. “See me about that after the election.’’

Now, people ask me all the time

how we got four surplus budgets in a row. What new ideas did we bring to Washington? I always give a one-word answer: arithmetic. If — arithmetic.

If they stay with this $5 trillion tax cut plan in a debt reduction plan, the arithmetic tells us, no matter what they say, one of three things is about to happen. One, assuming they try to do what they say they’ll do — get rid of — cover it by deductions, cutting those deductions — one, they’ll have to eliminate so many deductions, like the ones for home mortgages and charitable giving, that middleclass families will see their tax bills go up an average of $2,000, while anybody who makes $3 million or more will see their tax bill go down $250,000.

Or, two, they’ll have to cut so much spending that they’ll obliterate the budget for the national parks, for ensuring clean air, clean water, safe food, safe air travel.

They’ll cut way back on Pell grants, college loans, early childhood ed-

ucation, child nutrition programs, all the programs that help to empower middle-class families and help poor kids. Oh, they’ll cut back on investments in roads and bridges and science and technology and biomedical research. That’s what they’ll do. They’ll hurt the middle class and the poor and put the future on hold to give tax cuts to upper-income people who’ve been getting it all along.

Or, three, in spite of all the rhetoric, they’ll just do what they’ve been doing for more than 30 years.

They’ll go and cut the taxes way more than they cut spending, especially with that big defense increase, and they’ll just explode the debt and weaken the economy, and they’ll destroy the federal government’s ability to help you by letting interest gobble up all your tax payments.

Don’t you ever forget, when you hear them talking about this, that Republican economic policies quadrupled the national debt before I took office.

HE Environmental Rights Action/Friend of the Earth Nigeria (ERA/FoEN) and the West African Pipelines Company (WAPCo) have disagreed over the company’s claim to have expended $2 million (about N320 million) on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme.

WAPCo’s Managing Director, Charles Adeniji, told reporters the company had spent over $4 million (about N640 million) on corporate social responsibility projects in four countries, of which $2 million was expended on projects in Nigeria.

Adeniji said: “WAPCo has so far invested approximately $2 million in community development projects in Nigeria and another $2 million in Togo, Ghana and Benin.

One of WAPCo’s main corporate objectives is to partner with communities to contribute to the enhancement of living standards of host communities.”

The ERA/FoEN countered WAPCo’s claims after visits and consultations with representatives of Ajido, Imeke and Araromi communities in Badagry Local Government Area of Lagos that have been negatively impacted by the company’s pipelines and associated activities. ERA/FoEN described WAPCo’s claims as not only spurious but demanded an immediate investigation by the Federal Government and the World Bank.

ERA/FoEN Executive Director, Nnimmo Bassey, said: “It simply beats the imagination that WAPCo is claiming such colossal sums were spent on projects in the same communities that we find unemployment, abject poverty and utter neglect. This claim is one insult too many and we are demanding that WAPCo show the world where the projects are and the communities where they are sited. This is the only way the company can show that it is not merely indulging in fantasies at the expense of the impacted communities.

“Our demands for verifiable projects and a justification of the said sums have become indispensable because ERA/FoEN field monitors who visited Badagry on a supervisory tour and spoke with community folks after the media briefing where the company made its claims confirmed that the few community projects that were actually traceable to WAPCo are either substandard or ill-conceived and may have been implemented without full consultation with the communities. The few identified projects are an insignificant fraction of what any community would require to justify hosting WAPCo’s volatile facilities.”

The ERA/FoEN fact-finding team gathered from community folks that in Ajido, WAPCo put up a six classroom block allegedly constructed for N11 million, and a clinic which was allegedly built at a cost of N7 million but has not admitted or treated a single patient since it was constructed.

At Imeke, ERA/FoEN learnt there was another six-room class room block which also allegedly gulped N11 million. At Araromi and Tori-Lovi, two boreholes wells were provided and both stopped functioning a long time ago.

At Tori-Lovi, community spokesperson Micheal Igbesan said: “The news of $2million expended on community projects came to us as a surprise because not only are we kept in the dark as to what the company does, they have made it a policy not to engage our people in any work.”

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NEWS Kano warns contractors of shoddy jobs ANO State Commissioner for Land and Physical Planning, Muhammadu Nadu Yahaya, has said government would sanction any contractor that did shoddy jobs.

Yahaya, who spoke during an inspection and monitoring of road projects in the state, said 45 per cent progress has been made in the expansion/ dualisation of roads, particularly the N3 billion Gwarzo/ Kofar Kabuga/BUK New Site Road.

At the sites, the commissioner received complaints from the contractors, ranging from torrential rains to non-removal of electric poles as well as underground doctile pipes and heavy traffic.

He said when the rains subside he would redouble efforts to ensure completion of the projects.

During the inspection of the expansion/dualisation of Sheik Jafar Mahmud Adam Road, the contractor told the inspection team that his greatest challenge is the underground doctile pipe laid on both sides of the road, which is hindering work.

He said the road design was altered several times, result-

K

From Kolade Adeyemi, Kano

ing in the slow pace of work.

He assured the commissioner that he would redouble efforts in the execution of the project, particularly now that he has received a final redesign of the project from the Ministry of Works.

The commissioner said the projects were part of the governor’s campaign promises.

At the expansion/dualisation of Hadejia Road(Murtala Mohammed Way/Ahmadu Bello Way roundabout project), Yahaya hailed the quality and pace of work. He urged the contractor to redouble efforts to ensure he meets deadline.

During the tour of the expansion/upgrading of Zaria Road (Silver Jubilee-Dantata & Sawoe Yard), the monitoring team decried the slow pace of work and enjoined the contractor to redouble efforts to meet deadline.

The tour also took the commissioner to the Southern Terminus at Gundutse.

He lauded the pace of work, but urged the contractor to complete the project according to specification.

Commissioner urges Lagosians to comply with traffic laws HE Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Kayode Opeifa, yesterday said the new traffic laws were

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Baptists hold quarterly meeting HE third quarterly meeting of the Itesiwaju Baptist Association holds tomorrow at Araba Baptist Church, Ilasamaja, Lagos from 9am. It will be presided over by the Moderator of the association, Rev. Gbenga Ojo of Araba Baptist Church, Ilasamaja and Consultant, Rev. Femi Ajayi of Victoryland Baptist Church, Isolo.

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made to ensure the safety of motorists, motorcyclists and pedestrians.

Opeifa, represented by the Chief Vehicle Inspector Officer, Mr. Gbolahan Toriola, at an awareness lecture organised by the All Christian Leaders & Ministers Forum (ACLMF) at AbuleEgba, Lagos, urged Lagosians to comply with the new traffic laws.

The National President of the ACLMF and Senior Special Assistant to Governor Babatunde Fashola on Religious Matters (Christian), Dr. Sam Ogedengbe, said the lecture was organised to ensure that Christians comply with the traffic laws.

Aliyu can’t be impeached, says PDP HE Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Niger State has said the call for the impeachment of Governor Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu by a group called the Concerned Citizens of Niger State, was uncalled for.

It described the move as a mission impossible.

The group on Tuesday stormed the House of Assembly to submit a petition, requesting the lawmakers to begin the impeachment process of the governor. It accused him, among others, of non-implementation and non-adherence to the budgetary laws as passed in the last five years.

PDP Chairman, Alhaji Abdulraham Enagi, faulted the allegations the group

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From Jide Orintunsin, Minna

levelled against the governor.

He said: “Governor Aliyu has worked very hard to develop the state. He would have been qualified to run for a third term if the constitution had allowed it. This impeachment move is the work of mischievous individuals seeking relevance.

Aliyu cannot be impeached.”

Enagi, who spoke with reporters in Minna, said the state witnessed an adherence to laws during the Aliyu administration.

A group, under the auspices of the Talba Success Movement, also condemned the petition by the Concerned Citizens. It said the

Governor Aliyu administration is on course.

The group, headed by the Coordinator, Hamisu Jamkaro, presented a petition to the Clerk of the House. It said the petition by the Concerned Citizens of Niger State is malicious and designed to cause tension.

According to the counterimpeachment petition, “Governor Aliyu administration began from scratch, given the infrastructural decay and neglect it inherited from past administrations. This government has taken the challenge and has been delivering the dividends of democracy to the indigenes and residents.”

The petition further said the impeachment move is a mischievous attempt to dent

the record of the government. “For anyone to say the projects in the state have been stagnated is a mischievous and a calculated attempt to tarnish the image of this administration. Such people are either not in Niger State or are deliberately blind to the successes of the government.

“We at Talba Success Movement have collaborated with the Aliyu administration because we have seen in it, a deliberate effort to turn around the fortunes of the state.”

The group urged the lawmakers not to allow themselves to be used to create unnecessary tension in the state, adding that they should disregard the impeachment petition.

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SPORT EXTRA

Super Eagles acclimatise for Monrovia battle N

IGERIA national team, Super Eagles Wednesday shifted training from morning to late in the evening to help them acclimatize for Saturday’s African Cup of Nations qualifier against Lone Star in Monrovia.

The Liberia football governing body recently shifted the kickoff of the final leg of qualification for next year’s final in South Africa from 6pm to 7pm, leaving Nigeria with no other choice than getting used to the late kickoff.

Ten of invited foreign based players were already in camp by Tuesday night, while the team’s first choice and Maccabi Tel Aviv new signing Vincent Enyeama was being expected on Wednes-

day.

The Super Eagles are revved up for the battle they have been charged to win by President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, who has instructed Coach Stephen Keshi not only to win the double-legged encounter, but to also win the trophy in South Africa next year.

Meanwhile, star midfielder, Gabriel Reuben is down with a tie injury and remains a huge doubt for the trip.

Sportsrollcall.com, however, reliably gathered that all hopes of getting the Kano Pillars player fit is not lost, as the medics continue their relentless work in that direction.

According to the team’s media officer, Ben Alaiya, Coach

Stephen Keshi should not lose sleep over Reuben’s unavailability as there are several options at the defensive midfield position, amongst which is Gubbio of Italy player Nwankwo Obiora.

On paper, Liberia may not stand a chance in hell to upset Nigeria, but its government doesn’t see that mission as impossible.

Just like her Nigerian counterpart, President Helen Johnson Sirleaf is rooting for the Lone Star towards achieving the ultimate result against their illustrious visitors on Saturday and has purchased 7,000 tickets for fans.

Winners over the two-legged fixture qualify for the next edition of Africa’s foremost football tournament.

LONDON 2012 PARALYMPICS

Nigerian athletes find ability in disability

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IGERIA came back from the Olympics without a single medal, but their Paralympians have picked up a clutch of medals, including several gold medals.

Why are they succeeding where the Olympians failed?

"It is amusing that even wartorn Afghanistan went away with a bronze medal in taekwondo, a sport in which we had a strong medal hope," queried a report.

"In basketball and the sprints,

our athletes were expected to, at least, win a bronze. All hopes were dashed in the few sports in which we competed."

President Goodluck Jonathan called for a complete overhaul of Nigerian sports administration after the Games, saying the country needed to regain its "past glory". It was Nigeria's worst display in the Olympics for 20 years.

Things have been different, however, when it comes to Nigeria's Paralympics team. As

AHEAD 18TH NATIONAL SPORTS FESTIVAL

Lagos table tennis team for training tour of China

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ETERMINED to win medals at the forthcoming National Sports Festival (NSF) tagged “Eko 2012”,the Lagos State Sports Association have moved to expose its table tennis team to a 10day training tour for top flight training as well as improve their playing prowess in China in readiness for the festival.

The trip is being bankrolled by Lekki Free Zone Development Company and it was made possible following the partnership between Office of Sports, Lagos State Ministry of Youth, Sports and Social Development and Corporate Leisure Limited.

The 15-man delegation will be led by the technical director of the Lagos State Table Tennis Association (LSTTA), John Peters, an international referee. It is made up of 12 players (six male and six female), two coaches and the technical director.

The team is expected to depart the country on Sunday aboard an Ethiopia Airline en route Addis Ababa to Beijing with the training commencing of September 10 at the Chinese National Training Centre in Hebei, China.

For the Lagos State Commissioner for Youth, Sports and Social Development, Wahid Oshodi, the state would remain grateful to the sponsors as such gesture would help to expose the young players to world class training in the home of the game.

"We are grateful to our partner, Corporate Leisure Limited for their effort to secure this sponsorship and we hope other corporate bodies will emulate this.

This will surely be beneficial to the players because they are among the youngest players in the country and going to train at the home of table tennis will in-

By Innocent Amomoh deed help their career and be beneficial to the country," Oshodi said.

The 12 players will be captained by Ayo Omotara with others as Olajide Omotayo, Azeez Ogunlade, Hammed Adeyinka, Ganiyu Ashimiyu, Mojeed Olayiwola, Bose Odusanya, Aminat Fashola, Funke Hassan, Fatimo Bello, Sidikat Yaya and Ayo Udoh. The coaches are Dele Olasumbo 'Malawi' and Michael Oyebode.

of Wednesday, the country's Paralympics team had already won 12 medals, including six golds.

Why is their disabled team getting the medals when their Olympian counterparts can't get on to the podium?

Nigeria's London success comes off the back of a sizeable medal haul at the 2008 Paralympics in Beijing. There, the team won nine medals, including four golds, with six of their medals coming in the powerlifting events.

"Team Nigeria was successful in London 2012 because early preparations by the sports commission and government supported them financially with a training tour of more than two months in South Korea," Aliyu Tanko from the BBC's Hausa Service says.

"Based on the fact that most medals won by Nigeria in Beijing were in powerlifting, the country's sports body focused mainly on developing talents in that aspect, and the four silver medals won in powerlifting were converted into gold medals in London.

"So far, the medals won are in the sports they mastered for years, even though many expected the disabled athletes to perform well in wheelchair table tennis."

Boxers jostle for N3.6m prize as Prizefighter Africa debuts in Nigeria

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HE Prizefighter series, a knockout boxing tournament featuring eight different boxers in a sort of last man standing competition, will soon debut in Nigeria.

Za Entertainment International in conjunction with Global Sports Promotion, are bringing to Nigeria the London’s version of Prizefighter organised by the Matchroom Boxing owned by sporting events promoter, Barry Hearn.

Speaking about the new innovation aimed at resuscitating and developing boxing in the country, CEO of Za Entertainment International, Azania Omo-Agege said that the Prizefighter series is a knockout boxing tournament to promote professional boxers in the heavyweight down to the lightweight division where eight boxers are grouped to compete in four quarter finals of three minutes each followed by two semi finals and one final all in the same night. He said that the prize money for the winner of the

tournament would be $25,000 (about N3.6million), while all the other participating boxers would have prizes to take home.

“Za Entertainment International and Global Sports Promotion have secured the franchise from the London based’s Matchroom Boxing to promote the series to be known as Prizefighter Africa on the continent. The franchise was facilitated by Mike Williams of Based Africa. The maiden edition, which we plan to organise in Lagos and every three months across the federation as well as in other African countries, will be explosive, as boxers from Ghana, South Africa and some other countries in Africa are ready to slug it out with their Nigerian counterparts in the heavyweight category. The aim of this is to go back to the basics and bring a new life into boxing in Nigeria and Africa as a whole where our boxers will earn handsome prizes in dollars,” Omo-Agege said.

THE NATION FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

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SPORT EXTRA

Enyeama drilled as Eagles depart for Monrovia S

UPER Eagles’ deputy skipper, Vincent Enyeama, who arrived camp on Wednesday was subjected to special drilling by national team’s goalies’ trainer, Ike Shorunmi, even as it was clear from his output that Enyeama is in the best frame of form. “its just routine and we know his form and we are sure he will be ready for the game against Liberia if needed”, Ike said Enyeama played at the weekend and assured after the over two hours training at the National Stadium in Abuja, that he was happy for the one day extra granted him by Head Coach Stephen Keshi and he will reward that with excellent performance if fielded on Saturday.

The national team is scheduled to leave Abuja on Friday morning aboard a chartered flight and will arrive Monrovia two hour later. The squad is to be consisted of 22 players and officials of the team who will be joined by NFF officials and those of the Nigerian Football Supporters Club led by Dr Rauf Oladipo.

•Enyeama

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•Hails VP, Amaechi for initiative needs to excel in the game against Liberia on Saturday.

Speaking on the historic occasion, Yobo, said rather than the visit putting pressure on

the team, it has helped to motivate all the players, some of whom have never had the opportunity of meeting the President or any president for that

thing can happen, ” said Blatter.

The world football supremo was speaking at a FIFA banquet for the teams remaining in the tournament, which took place at the magnificent Conrad Tokyo on Thursday night.

The dinner was also attended by members of FIFA Executive Committee, top officials of the Japanese monarchy and the local organizing committee of the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup Japan 2012, members of various FIFA Committees, women football icons, officials of the four teams remaining in the competition and FIFA staff.

Member of the NFF Executive Committee and Chairperson of the Nigeria Women’s League, Mrs Dilichukwu Onyedinma and NFF Chief Media Officer, Ademola Olajire were also at the event.

Blatter used the opportunity to reinforce his conviction that the future of football is femi-

nine, saying that some of the things that happen in women’s football would never find place in the men’s game.

“I remember very well that when at the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup finals in Germany, the final was between USA and Japan and Japan was triumphant. At the 2012 Olympic Games Women’s Football Tournament in London few weeks ago, the final was also between USA and Japan, but this time, USA was triumphant.

“Yet, in all my years in football, I have never seen a losing team in the final so happy. They lost but they were happy, because they knew they already put their best efforts and these were not enough. I wish this can also happen in the women’s game.

“I must also use this opportunity to commend the huge steps that Japan and indeed other Asian countries have taken in women’s football.”

matter in their entire football career. “We are privileged to have had the rare opportunity of meeting the president and I must specially thank him for the visit and also assure him of the seriousness of the entire squad to excel in not only the qualifiers for the Nations Cup but those of the World Cup and any tournament that we will enter for.

Yobo also seized the opportunity to thank Vice President, Namadu Sambo, the Governor of his home state, Rivers and Chairman of the Governor’s Forum, Hon. Rotimi Chubuike Amaechi and all those who were there when the President visited the national team at training, assuring that they will have cause to celebrate the team in the coming days.

“I must say I’m very excited at the visit of top officials and the knowledge the President and his team displayed of the Super Eagles. In fact, Mr President knew almost all the players by name and that means he has been following the team closely. We can only reward by qualifying in style for the SA 2013 Nations Cup and doing vvery well at the tournament proper”.

Falconets’ star disowns Swedish club

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ALCONETS U-20 forward, Francisca Ordega who is expected to play a key role in Saturday's (September 8) third place match of the ongoing FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup against Japan has distanced herself from claims of being signed by Swedish Club, Jitex FC. A report on Swedish site Fotbollskanalen claimed that Jitex have reached an agreement to sign the player owing to her splendid performance in Japan.

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ITH few weeks to the Southwest zonal eliminations to the National Sports Festival, Eko 2012, slated for Ibadan, former Nigeria handball goalkeeper Bolaji Ojuola currently handling Gabon National handball team has volunteered to help Oyo Handball team qualify.

Ojuola has been offering technical assistance to the Oyo handball team who had not qualified for the last 3 National Sports Festival on a daily basis in preparation for the eliminations.

The ex-international who had been on vacation in Ibadan said he had early last month organized and financed a refresher course for the Handball Coaches in the state with the aim of updating their knowledge in the game.

The handball technocrats who left the shores of Nigeria in 1999

disclosed to newsmen in Ibadan that he was moved to tears when seen the deplorable state of the game of handball when I arrives the country.

Ojuola who had successfully led Gabon national teams to World and African Nations Cup respectively, said he has made up his mind to contribute his own quota to the restoration of the game in Nigeria especially from the state (Oyo) where he started the game almost 4 decades ago.

Oyo State handball team according to their Head Coach, Akim Everest is now in top gear for the zonal elimination which has been slated to be staged next week in Obafemi Awolowo Stadium and Lekan Salami Sports Complex Ibadan.

No serious preparation for the eliminations is noticeable in some other ball games such as basketball, volleyball and abula in the state.

Okunbor: Nigeria can win medals in Golf

Blatter: Nigeria’s a powerful force in women’s football IFA President Sepp Blatter yesterday paid glowing tributes to Nigeria’s capacity in women’s football, saying the world’s most populous black nation has continued to play a leading role in the promotion of the game in the universe.

“Nigeria has not only shown great potential and ability in the men’s game; she has continued to exert strength and direction in the women’s game. Thanks to Nigeria, women football in Africa is becoming stronger in strength and enterprise, and we are the happier for it as a world body.

“The Falconets finished second at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Germany, and now have opportunity to take the bronze after losing in the semi final against the USA. They will be very strong against the host nation (Japanese) for the bronze medal match and any-

Gabon National Handball Coach offers assistant to Oyo Govt

RIO 2016 OLYMPICS

Jonathan’s visit a motivation, says Yobo

UPER Eagles skipper, Joseph Yobo, declared yesterday that Wednesday’s surprise visit by President Goodluck Jonathan, to the training session of the national team at the Abuja National Stadium, was the tonic the team

AHEAD OF EKO 2012

But the 19-year-old Rivers Angels and Nigeria forward who has scored four goals in the competition, on Thursday described the claims as false aimed at jeopardizing her football career. "l have been inundated with calls and mails from friends, club mates and family relatives back home in Nigeria congratulating me for what l do not know anything about," said the player.

"It is even more worrisome when there has been no con-

tact whether verbally or orally with the so-called club in the past or now. I am extremely sad to hear this," added Ordega.

The club which claims to have an agreement with a Summer Football Centre in Nigeria said Ordega would be the first player from Nigeria to be contracted to the club.

She was also described by the club which plays in the 12-team top flight Damallsvenskan (ladies league) as one blessed with the right qualities.

•Francisca

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golf icon and the Captain of the Benin Golf Club, Kingsley Ehi Okunbor has predicted that if young talents are well harnessed in the game of Golf the country may stand the chance of winning the desired medals.

Okunbor, who rolled drums in celebration of his 50th year birthday, explained how he intends to join hands with the Nigeria Golf Federation (NGF) to discover talented youths in the game that could fly Nigeria's flag in Rio, Brazil, come 2016 where golf will be making a dramatic return to the games. out to celebrate this golfer who has done so well to position Nigerian golf on an African map.

He said: "It is sad that Nigeria could not win a medal at the London Olympics",

Okunbor stated. "But am glad that golf as a game is back and the game alone could account for close to 20 gold medals.

This is my joy.

“We have several talented youths who could be ready in 2016 if well groomed. This is where I want to come in. To celebrate my golden age, I have agreed to partner with NGF to groom youths who will win laurels for Nigeria at the 2016 Olympics."

Speaking in Benin dialect he marked his Golden age, Okunbo stated that to show his passion for the game,a five-star tourney has been organized that would involve some 350 golfers from across the nation in Benin.

Silverwares and prizes worth over N2,5 million are already in place for winners in this event.

RENOVATION OF NATIONAL STADIUM, ABUJA

Presidency debunks report

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UR attention has been drawn to a news item

in some newspapers that His Excellency, President Goodluck Jonathan has appointed the Coordinating Minister of the Economy and Honourable Minister of Finance, Dr. Ngozi OkonjoIweala to head a committee to reposition Nigerian sports and “return its lost glory.”

We wish to state that there is no truth in that report and it is a clear misrepresentation of the comments and directives of Mr. President.

This is the fact. The Honorable Minister of Sports, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi at the Federal Executive Council Meeting of September 5th, 2012, made a presentation on the performance of Team Nigeria at the London 2012 Olympics, and outlined strategies for greater performance in the future. One of the highlights of that presentation was that we now lack decent pitches where our footballers can have quality training. The Honourable Minister espe-

cially lamented the deplorable state of the National Stadium in Abuja and the inadequacy of sports infrastructure across the country. It was then that Mr. President directed that an ad-hoc committee, made up of the Minister of Sports, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi; CME and Minister of Finance, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala; Minister of FCT, Bala Mohammed; Minister of National Planning, Dr. Shamsudeen Usman, and the Director-General of the National Sports Commission, Dr. Patrick Ekeji be set up to come up with strategies on the renovation and management of the National Stadium in Abuja.

Later that evening, on his visit to the Super Eagles who were training at the National Stadium, Abuja, the issue of poor infrastructure came up again, and Mr. President reiterated his earlier directive. It is obvious that it is this directive by Mr. President that was misreported by a section of the press as a ‘committee to reform Nigerian sports.’

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

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OR the unitarist, a nation must be known and related to as an indivisible and united entity. To be such, no room must be given to any centrifugal tendencies. On this view, federalism, which respects the component units in a multi-national or multi-ethnic union, is a contradiction in terms. It errs for allowing the sentiment of primordial attachments to overrule its sense of judgement.

I can think of two ways of understanding the ultimate goal of unitarism as a system of building a new nation out of pre-existing motley nationalities. First, the unitarist goal is to break and grind all the pots of ethnic nationalities into one heap of clay where even the tiniest grains of the former pots would have completely disappeared. The clay is then to be used to make a new pot which bears no resemblance to any of the old. It is an illusion but reasonable people have entertained the prospect of its reality.

Second, as in variants of the melting pot analogy, a more violent exercise can be invoked. Collect all the artifices, including symbols, emblems, languages, even dialects integral to the being and identity of the component units and put them in a pot. Place the pot on fire and melt its contents until there are no traces of them to behold or identify.

Thereafter, use the concocted outcome as the foundation of a new nation from which there can be no residue of the previous component cultures and their emblems. In both of these analogies, the success of the exercise is the complete disappearance of the old nations and the appearance of newly minted ideal— the unitary nation state.

The analogy is false for the reasons that readers already know. An ethnic nationality is not a pot and cannot be melted like a wax.

Nor is a language a bar of butter that can be melted by heat. The failure of melting pot ideas and practices is a reflection of the absurdity of their assumptions.

Notice that the idea that “the many should become one” was conceived as the ideal of nation-building and nationalities were condemned as irredentist abnormalities. You wonder, don’t you, why those ethnic incongruities were created differently and separately in the first place. Were they the works of an irrational creator as well?

With a bit of propaganda and manipulation, the melting pot idea would work if the people are thoroughly mis-educated into thinking that indeed all of the pots were broken and melted or all of the contents were heated and melted. But the reality in the original cases of melting pot ideology was that, in fact, it was all ideology. All the pots, except the preferred one, were expected to be melted. All languages, all symbols, and all emblems were to be discarded except the

RIPPLES MIMIKO BETRAYED US - Tinubu

JUDAS... made in NIGERIA

TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM

VOL.7 NO.2,241

TODAY IN THE NATION ‘Ndigbo...have not come to terms with the resolution of the Biafran conundrum; they still wear the badge of defeat. This explains why they present themselves as oke for every puusu in town. Yes, there is an argument for stooping to conquer but it is not the same as being perpetually in a stooped position.’

STEVE OSUJI

COMMENT & DEB ATE EBA

SEGUN GBADEGESIN gbadegesin@thenationonlineng.net

The unitarist absurdity ‘

To those who would question the audacity of a state assembly choosing its anthem and symbols of identity, there is still time to rethink a unitarist tendency run amok. Granted there is a National Flag that stands for the entire nation. It is unclear why the idea of a State having a State flag is so dangerous to the theory and practice of nationhood?

’

•Dr. Jonathan

preferred one into which others were to be assimilated. It was a ruse and upon its discovery as such, the scales were lifted off the eyes of folks. Now diversity is the rule and each ethnic group is proud of its symbols and linguistic heritage. A thousand flowers are blooming and beautifying the nationspace that proudly engages its differences.

Of course, there are still ideologues of who the saying is true that patriotism is the refuge of the scoundrel.

There is more to the absurdity and the malady it spurns, especially in climes such as ours. In the case of the experience that we just narrated, at least there is one dominant culture into which others might be theoretically forced to assimilate. You could think of a dominant English or French or Spanish culture and you could argue, with some justifi-

cation, that where immigrants are accepted and voluntarily agree to become citizens or residents, they ought to forget their past and reconcile themselves to their new life and locale. It worked in some cases, but not on a grand scale. But even where it worked, you could see it as a different setting and a different structure than ours.

From the beginning of this republic, it was clear that no one cultural or linguistic entity can lord it over others. No language was going to be superior, and no religion was going to be state religion. But apart from these negatives, it was also very clear that the ethnic nationalities that came together were going to have to retain a sensible amount of their heritage in culture, language, and customs. The regions that constituted the governing structure of these nationalities were to symbolise their distinctness and uniqueness. We thus had reason to brag about our “unity in diversity.” This means, for all

HARDBALL

intents and purposes, that we were not discarding our diversity and we were not melting the pot of our differences into a heap of uniformitarian clay. That was our understanding of the union we were entering into.

Now what do we have? Our different languages are dying a slow death. One is reminded of Nguigi wa Thiong’o’s lamentations about the “formerly colonised natives’ death wish for the languages of their cultures.” If the National Assembly cannot reasonably avoid English as its official language because there is no wazobia yet, what explains or justifies the preference of State Assemblies for “speaking in tongues”?

The extreme character of the absurdity that prompted this discourse, however lies somewhere else. In the maddening craze to build uniformity rather than unity in diversity, we now appear prepared to deny the diversities of our heritage. We seem to be so unsure of the value of our various traditions and symbols, those subtle but real markers of identity that make us who we are, that we can just pretend that they don’t exist and we will be created a new being and a new people. We are being urged to believe that this land, out of the ashes of discarded memories, will rise as a completely new entity. We deceive ourselves.

To those who would question the audacity of a state assembly choosing its anthem and symbols of identity, there is still time to rethink a unitarist tendency run amok. Granted there is a National Flag that stands for the entire nation. It is unclear why the idea of a State having a State flag is so dangerous to the theory and practice of nationhood? Where states have identity markers including flags, anthems, even trees and animals identified with them, these are means of promoting the psychological well-being of citizens and promoting healthy competition among states.

Besides the flag, there is no Nigerian symbol that is not an ethnic nationality symbol.

If one were created, it would come from the creativity of some folk whose thought processes grew out of a particular cultural tradition. If someone were to do a patchwork of traditions that bring three or more together in the guise of a wazobia, you couldn’t proclaim that as unique without referencing the traditions of its source. We should therefore stop pretending that we can forget our heritage and still remain ourselves. We should each embrace them and bring out their virtues to bear on the future that we covet.

•For comments, send SMS to 08023211188

•Hardball is not the opinion of the columnist featured above

Sowing tares in the Southeast

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ITH a vow to commission the Second Niger Bridge before the expiration of his first term in office or else go into exile, President Goodluck Jonathan brought the house down during his Town Hall Meeting in Onitsha as part of the activities marking his recent one-day state visit to Anambra. With the Works minister, Mike Onolomemen, and Finance Minister, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, in tow, both of them lending credence to the President’s vow, the Anambra crowd that listened to the President take the uncharacteristic oath on August 30 were transported to heights of bliss. The President had also made the ears of his hosts tingle by drawing a parallel between himself and the great Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe, for as he said, the first Niger Bridge was built by Azikiwe (the great Zik), and the second would be built by another Azikiwe, that is, himself.

Jonathan was not done wooing his hosts.

He described himself as a son of the soil, and had even told his security men not to push anybody during his visit because he felt secure among his people. He could walk around Onitsha without security, he offered. Would he like to put his money where his mouth is?

Still entranced by the warm reception his hosts gave him, Jonathan declared enthusiastically that Anambra State had become an

oil producing state. And after he spoke about the World Bank-assisted plan to tackle the menace of erosion in the region, Anambrarians were truly and completely fetched into the Goodluck Jonathan column.

It didn’t take careful reflection or any logical consideration before Anambra began to serenade the President with their own promises. Since his project was among those inaugurated by the President, Chief Arthur Eze, boss of Orient Petroleum Resources (OPR) production facility, needed little prompting to open the floodgates. Said he to the president with cold calculation: “Obasanjo took eight years; we are calling on you to take another four years as one term is too short for you to finish the job you have at hand. You can consider giving power to the North after your eight years, so that they will return it to the Southeast after their own eight years.” The ordinary Anambrarian, and possibly the ambitious south-easterner, must wonder how easily and how cheaply approbation can be secured in those parts. Eze was not content ceding 2015 to Jonathan, he also worked the ratios out and conceded eight more years after 2019 to the North. Only then, he said with self-flagellating bashfulness, should power rotate back to the Southeast. How very considerate of him.

The host governor himself, Mr Peter Obi, being a politician, was ecstatic but a little more restrained. If the President chose to contest in 2015, he said in urging tones, he could count on Anambra’s support. The governor can be sure the President will cash that cheque in the years to come, for as the new Azikiwe said, he was thrilled to note that his most popular support in the last poll came from the Southeast. Where does the President put the support from the Southsouth? Though the Ohanaeze Ndigbo denied that the Southeast had endorsed Jonathan, it left the matter disingenuously open. The Ohanaeze had a way of doing things, and would review its permutations if Jonathan failed to give up power in 2015, its president, Chief Nduka Eya, said.

Even if Jonathan, the second Azikiwe, cannot work the crowd in any other zone, he is at least adept at political preening in the Southeast. All that remains is for him to replicate the Anambra magic in one or two more states in the zone and he would fetch the entire region into his bandwagon. For if they promise him second term in Anambra on account of one or two federal projects, who could tell what Imo, Abia, and any other state in the zone would vouchsafe to him on account of three or four federal projects? Perhaps eternal life itself.

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