The Nation September 30, 2014 by The Nation

Ex-Mint chief for trial in UK •Alleged N750m bribe

NEWS

Page 2

Newspaper of the Year

News El-Rufai floors SSS in court P7 Sports Eagles not ready, says Keshi P41 Business IGI to preserve Olowude’s legacies P3

•Nigeria’s widest circulating newspaper

VOL. 9, NO. 2987 TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2014

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•INSIDE: SYNAGOGUE TRAGEDY : LAGOS TO APPLY LAWS, SAYS FASHOLA P10

•Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun (CON) flanked by Dr. Olatunde Ayeni (CON), Chairman, •From left: Head of Presidential Stewards Onuh Isaac Michael (MON), taxi driver Mr. Imeh Ubru Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company and Prince Dapo Abiodun (MFR) (right) at the (MFR) and traffic warden Cpl. Solomon Dauda (MON) at the awards... yesterday. PHOTOS: AKIN OLADOKUN awards...yesterday.

Flag designer gets salary for life

Oritsejafor, Falana clash over smuggled $9.3m

•Abuja houses for presidential steward, taxi driver

By Adebisi Onanuga, Staff Correspondent

AGOS lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) said yesterday that Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) President Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor cannot divorce himself from the smuggling of $9.3m from Nigeria to South Africa ostensibly to buy arms. But Pastor Oritsejafor defended his integrity, saying he knew nothing about the cash, which was taken into South Africa on September 2 in a private jet owned by Pastor Oritsejafor but leased to a company, has been seized by Continued on page 8

•Pastor Oritsejafor

ATIONAL flag designer Pa Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi, 78, is to be placed on salary of special assistant to the president for the rest of his life, President Goodluck Jonathan announced yesterday. Akinkunmi, who has gone blind, was led to the President by his child to collect the national award of Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic

From Augustine Ehikioya, Abuja

(OFR) at a colourful ceremony in Abuja. The President also directed the Minister of FCT, Bala Mohammed, to give one flat each in the FCT to the taxi driver who returned N18 million forgotten in his car to the owner, Imeh Usuah, Head of Presidential Stewards, Onuh Isaac

Michael and a traffic warden, Solomon Dauda. The three of them also got national honours. Usuah got Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR). Onuh and Dauda got Member of the Order of the Niger (MON). The President said: “Let me specially appreciate these Continued on page 8

Attack on judges: Fayose, CJ take battle to Abuja

WHEN WILL THE CHIBOK GIRLS KIDNAPPED ON APRIL 15 BE FREED?

NJC summons meeting Governor-elect rushes to Jonathan

HE National Judicial Council (NJC) yesterday summoned an emergency meeting of its members for Thursday over attacks on judges in Ekiti State. But the crisis moved hundred miles away from Ekiti where a judge was beaten up and his dress shredded to Abuja, the capital city. The Chief Judge of the state, Justice A.S. Daramola and Governor-elect Mr. Ayodele Fayose have taken their cases to the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Justice Mariam Alooma Mukhtar.

From Yusuf Alli, Abuja

The Chief Judge is in Abuja to meet “relevant stakeholders” in the Judiciary. Fayose met with President Goodluck Jonathan to clarify his alleged role in the attacks on judges. Fayose, who told the President that he had nothing to do with the assault on judges, also submitted a petition to the CJN. The counsel to the Governor-elect, Mr. Owoseni Ajayi, who was also a former Attorney-General of Ekiti State, submitted a petition on behalf of Fayose.

According to a source, who spoke in confidence, the NJC has decided to meet on Thursday to prevent a total breakdown of law and order in Ekiti State. A member of the NJC, who spoke in confidence, said: “We have been invited to an emergency session of the council on the judicial challenges in Ekiti on Thursday. “We will look at the issues critically and dispassionately in the interest of all the stakeholders. Our ultimate goal is to protect the sanctity of the Judiciary and allow unfettered access

to justice by all.” Justice Daramola, who has been meeting with stakeholders, has chosen to remain in Abuja till he appears before the NJC. Fayose is also in Abuja to explain his own “sides” to President Goodluck Jonathan and top officials in the Presidency and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Another source added: “The Chief Judge is staying put in Abuja till the issues surrounding the attacks on judges are sorted out by the NJC. “The Ekiti CJ has also briefed stakeContinued on page 8

•AMCON VS BI-COURTNEY: COURT NULLIFIES AGBAKOBA’S APPOINTMENT P7

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2014

NEWS

Hard times for ex-

•President Goodluck Jonathan presenting the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor Godwin Emefiele with the National Honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) in Abuja... yesterday.

•EFCC arrests Okoyomon ahead of extradition to the UK

•The Nation’s Brand Correspondent Adedeji Ademigbuji (right) and Le Quotidien newspaper’s Birame Faye (left) after the World Wide Manager, Schneider Electric Anti-counterfeiting, Mrs. Tracy Garner (middle) presented them the Best Media Report on Electrical Counterfeiting in Africa in the English and French categories at Electropole Lab of Shneider Electric HQ in France, Grenobe France.

•From left: Chairman, Christ's School Ado Ekiti Alumni Association Lagos Branch Mr Yemi Akeju, Guest Speaker Professor Adelola Adeloye, Barrister Bosede Oyebode and Mr Gboyega Adepitan at the Second Alumni Lecture 2014, with the theme “The Evolution Impact of Christ' School Ado Ekiti on Nigeria's Development- The Role of the Alumni in Sustaining the PHOTO NIYI ADENIRAN Legacy” in Lagos...at the weekend.

•Dean, Faculty of Technology, University of Ibadan, Prof. Emmanuel Atoo Ajav (middle) flanked by Olanlege Abdul-Fatah (left) and Tomasz Szpyt of P&G Nigeria at a ceremony where the company donated baby care manufacturing equipment to the faculty in Ibadan...yesterday.

FTER investigating the alleged N750million polymer note bribery, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is to extradite a former managing director of the Nigerian Security Printing and Minting Company, NSPMC, Emmanuel Ehidiamhen Okoyomon to the United Kingdom for trial. Okoyomon was the chief executive of the NSMPC until November 2013 when he was suspended by the Board of the Central Bank of Nigeria in the wake of the N1000 notes disappearance scandal. Okoyomon, who holds dual Nigerian and British citizenship, has been arrested by the EFCC. The international dimension to the scandal was said to have informed the proposed extradition of the exMint boss. According to some sources, the extradition was approved by the Federal Government following substantial investigation into the scam by the EFCC in collaboration with the Australian Federal Police (AFP) and the British National Crime Agency (BNCA). It was learnt that the outcome of the investigation revealed a “kind of international network and the diversion of the bribe sums into slush accounts in the UK and Canada.” A source said: “Okoyomon is to be extradited to face trial in the United Kingdom. The extradition process has been initiated through the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation under a mutual legal assistance request by the British Government. “The trial of the suspect in the UK will further assist in unmasking the international syndicate behind the bribery deal on the award of polymer note contract. “The EFCC has conducted substantial investigation with Australiam Federal Police (AFP) and the British National Crime Agency (BNCA) which showed elements of international collaboration. “Okoyomon has been under investigation since 2012 following request by the British National Crime Agency. “The request for extradition also followed the discovery by the Australian authorities that some Nigerian officials at the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Mint, received bribes and kick backs from Securency Pty Limited, a polymer substrate producing company for the contract to produce N20 polymer notes for the Central Bank of Nigeria between 2006 and 2008. Another source gave some insights into the findings of the EFCC and international agencies involved in the probe. The bribes were routed through offshore accounts in the UK and other jurisdictions The source added: “The EFCC investigation uncovered a web of forgery, identity fraud and money laundering running into millions of naira. “The erstwhile Mint boss allegedly used the names of his driver and clerk to open different bank accounts in which he diverted several alleged bribery funds without their knowledge. “He allegedly forged a driver’s licence with the photograph of his driver but bearing a different name belonging to his official clerk to open the account in which N368million proceeds of laundered bribery funds were traced, with Okoyomon as the sole beneficiary. “Over N750million is alleged to

•The late Yar'Adua From Yusuf Alli, Managing Editor, Northern Operation

have exchanged hands between officials of the CBN, the NSPMC and Securency International Pty of Australia, (now Innovia Security Pty Limited).” Responding to a question, the highly-placed source said: “Okoyomon has been arrested; he is in custody ahead of his extradition to the United Kingdom. “Of course the suspect’s movement had been restricted since he was placed under investigation. His passports were not only seized, he had been asked to report routinely to the EFCC.” When contacted, the Head of Media and Publicity of the EFCC, Mr. Wilson Uwujaren, said: “This commission will extradite Okoyomon to the UK any moment from now for prosecution in the UK.” President Umaru Yar‘Adua had in company with the then CBN Governor, Prof. Charles Soludo launched the new N5, N10 and N50 polymer notes on September 30, 2009 at the Presidential Villa. The circulation of the new bank notes coincided with Nigeria’s 49th Independence Anniversary day celebration. But there had been allegations of shady deal between some CBN officials and Securency International Pty of Australian. The AFP had already probed the alleged N750million bribe offered by Securency to win the contract. Although the contract for the printing of N5, N10, N50 notes were awarded in 2009, the bribery scandal involving Securency was perpetrated in 2006. Investigation by our correspondent revealed that the probe conducted by AFP had given clues which the EFCC looked into. According to a document, the CBN tender results for banknotes in 2006 showed how Securency bid for N20 polymer notes at Euro 73.475 per 1000 notes including freight charge. But, it was learnt that the cost was later reduced to Euro 59.88 by the CBN when the N20 polymer contract was awarded in 2006. The bid was dotted with the N750million bribery scandal Others involved in the bid were Global Securency (Australia); Gieesecke and Devrient (G &D) of Germany; De La Rue (the UK); FC

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2014

NEWS

or ex-Mint boss over N750m polymer scam

‘

Okoyomon has been under investigation since 2012 following request by the British National Crime Agency....The trial of the suspect in the UK will further assist in unmasking the international syndicate behind the bribery deal on the award of polymer note contract •Okoyomon

Oberther (France) and Nigerian Security Printing and Minting Company (NSPMC). The bid was opened on March 27, 2006 and finally concluded by April 4, 2006. A March 16, 2006 letter from the Director of Currency and Banking Operations of the CBN had invited the five firms for the bid. After the bid, G&D and NSPMC were awarded contract for the printing of the notes. But Global Securency won the bid for the production of polymer substrates. The contract was awarded to the short-listed firms on May 2, 2006. In spite of the alleged scandal, Securency later made offer to acquire the Mint until public opinion weighed against it. The EFCC in April last year quizzed Okomoyon over the contract. Okomoyon was arrested following reports on the alleged scam sent to the EFCC by the Australian police. This was shortly after he resigned his appointment on the heels of the disappearance of millions of

•Soludo

N1000 currency notes from the company. He was quizzed by investigators at the EFCC Abuja office. Nigerian officials allegedly received bribes for Securency, a note-printing firm partly owned by the Reserve Bank of Australia, which handled the polymer banknotes contract. A former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, was quizzed by the EFCC January last year in connection with the probe. Although the contract for the printing of N5, N10, N50 notes were awarded in April 2009, the bribery scandal involving Securency occurred in 2006. According to a document, the CBN tender results for banknotes in 2006 showed how Securency, bid for N20 polymer note at Euro 73.475 per 1000 notes, including freight charge. But it was learnt that the cost was later reduced to Euro 59.88 by the CBN when the N20 polymer contract was awarded in 2006. Others involved in the bid are: Global Securency (Australia); Gieesecke

•Lamorde

and Devrient (G &D) of Germany ; De La Rue (the UK ); FC Oberther ( France ) and Nigerian Security Printing and Minting Company (NSPMC). A document by the anti-graft agency signed by its director of operations, Olaolu Adegbeti, showed that Okoyomon had committed forgery and identity thefts which he used as cover to launder huge sums of money running into millions of naira during his tenure as chief executive of the organisation. The memo, entitled “Ongoing investigation of Messrs Paul Macauley and Victor Aisagbonhi”, CR:3000/ EFCC/DOPS/VOL.21/325 and dated March 20, 2014, fingered the erstwhile Mint boss of fraudulently using the names of his driver and clerk to open different bank accounts in which he diverted several alleged bribery funds without their knowledge. According to the commission’s findings, over N750million is said to have exchanged hands between officials of the CBN, the NSPM and

IGI vows to preserve Olowude’s legacies

HE Industrial and General Insurance (IGI) vowed yesterday to sustain the legacies of its founder and Executive Vice-Chairman, Dr. Oluremi Andrew Olowude, who died on Sunday. The company has opened condolence messages at the late CEO’s private residence and the company’s offices at home and abroad. In a statement announcing Olowude’s passing on behalf of the board and management yesterday, signed by IGI’s Senior Manager, Corporate Affairs, Steve Ilo, the company assured “all stakeholders that we shall preserve the IGI legacy and vigorously pursue the dream and vision of the departed founder. “ The statement said: “A visionary entrepreneur with remarkable patriotic zeal, Dr. Olowude was a self-driven achiever and business leader, who built a virile conglomerate with interests in insurance, banking, health management services, construction, and telecommunications services. He was a frontline member of Corporate Nigeria and the immediate past Chairman of the Nigerian Insurers Association (NIA). “IGI Plc, which he founded in 1992, is a leading insurance company in Nigeria underwriting all classes of insurance business. IGI is also present in Uganda, Rwanda and The Gambia, with a representative office in London. “The Board and Management assure all

stakeholders that we shall preserve the IGI legacy and vigorously pursue the dream and vision of the departed founder. “Dr. Olowude died on Saturday, 27th September, 2014 in a hospital in the United States, after a brief illness. He was aged 63. Condolence registers have been opened at his private residences, IGI Head Office in Lagos as well as other branches and subsidiaries inside and outside Nigeria. “Burial arrangements will be announced later by the family. “May God comfort the entire Olowude family and grant the soul of our departed leader and mentor perfect repose.”

‘

In the memo by the EFCC, Adegbeti said four other bank accounts operated at the First City Monument Bank (FCMB) have also been traced by the anti-graft agency to the former managing director. The said accounts which also bear the name of his clerk, Mr John Peter Ebhodaghe, but with a different passport photograph of one Mr Victor Aisagbonhi was opened by the former Mint boss in four different currencies of naira, euro, British pounds and dollars. The anti-graft agencies alleged that while N106million was laundered in the naira account, the second account has about •156,000, with the third account stashed with £246, 220 deposit and the with about $431,600. “Four accounts for naira, euro, dollar and British pounds at FCMB Plc in the name of John Peter Ebhodaghe were found to have the photograph of Victor Aisagbonhi; Okoyomon was found to be the major beneficiary of the accounts,” the memo further noted.

Nigeria in dire need of credible leadership, says ACF

A •Remi Olowude

Securency International Pty of Australia, even as the said monies were allegedly delivered to the Nigerian officials through two British businessmen, Benoy Berry and Michael Harvey. EFCC added that on July 13, 2007, Okoyomon allegedly opened a bank account with the Guaranty Trust Bank Plc with forged documents, using the passport photograph of one Mr Paul Macaulay, his official driver at the Mint for the transaction. He was said to have forged a driver’s licence with the same photograph of Mr Macaulay bearing a different name belonging to his official clerk, Mr John Peter Ebhodaghe, on it to open the account, in which N368million proceeds of laundered bribery funds have been traced to, with Okoyomon as the sole beneficiary. “The fraudulent account was used to launder proceeds of bribery by Mr Emmanuel Ehidiamhmen Okoyomon who was the main beneficiary of the funds,” EFCC stated in the memo.

S Nigerians mark the 54th independence anniversary tomorrow, the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has said the country is in dire need of credible leadership to navigate it out of its current quagmire. ACF, in its independence message made available to reporters in Kaduna yesterday, said Nigeria has the potential to be one of the biggest economy in the world if the right leadership is installed. The message signed by the forum’s National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Muhammad Ibrahim stressed the need for Nigerians to rise against the nation’s challenges and collectively build a nation devoid of corruption. It also urged Nigerians to participate fully in the forthcoming 2015 general elections by ensuring that they register as voters and vote for credible candidates of their choice in all the elective positions across the country.

From Abdulgafar Alabelewe, Kaduna

The message reads: “As we celebrate Nigeria at 54, ACF calls on Nigerians to brace up to the challenges and unite to build a virile Nation that will be the pride of all, devoid of corruption, ineptitude, oppression and impunity. A nation where respect for the rule of law, human dignity and principles of democracy shall reign supreme. “Nigeria has the potential to be one of the biggest economy in the world with the right leadership, ACF therefore, urges all eligible Nigerians to fully participate in the imminent 2015 general elections by ensuring that they register as voters and also vote for competent and credible candidates of their choice in all the elections. Nigeria needs credible leadership to navigate out of this quagmire. “ACF wishes all Nigerians at home and in the diaspora a Happy Independence Anniversary.”

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2014

THE NATION TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 30, 2014

NEWS

Drama as court nullifies AMCON’s Agbakoba appointment

HE Federal High Court in Lagos nullified yesterday an order appointing a former Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) president, Dr. Olisa Agbakoba (SAN), as the receiver/ manager over the assets of BiCourtney Ltd, its Chairman Dr. Wale Babalakin (SAN) and three other companies. Justice Ibrahim Buba, in a bench ruling, held that the order by his colleague, Justice Okon Abang, was made in error. He said the order should not have been made when there were pending cases and subsisting orders on the same case. According to Justice Buba, the true facts were not given to Justice Abang. “He was misled,” the judge held. Agbakoba was also appointed receiver for the assets of Chartered Investment Ltd, Resort International Ltd and Roygate Properties Ltd. The Murtala Muhammed Airport 2 (MMA 2) is owned by BiCourtney pursuant to a concession agreement with the Federal Government. Roygate Properties acquired the old Federal Secretariat building in Ikoyi, Lagos, following another concession agreement between it and the Federal Government. The Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON), through Agbakoba, applied to the court for orders of possession and receivership over the assets, following the alleged failure of the companies to pay a cumulative debt of about N50billion owed AMCON, which Justice Abang granted. Babalakin is chairman of the companies. The Chief Judge, Justice Ibrahim Auta, assigned an application by

Fed Govt, AMCON owe us N132b, says Bi-Courtney I-COURTNEY Aviation Services Ltd (BASL) said yesterday that the Asset Management Company of Nigeria (AMCON) and the Federal Government owed it over N132billion by virtue of a subsisting 2011 ruling of the Federal High Court. Briefing reporters at the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal Two, Ikeja, Lagos after the Federal High Court discharged and struck out the order obtained by AMCON through its counsel Mr. Olisa Agbakoba (SAN), to take over the assets of the firm in lieu of the controversial debt, the head of litigation, Babalakin and Company, Mr. Tola Oshobie, said the debt owed the company by the Federal Government was predicated on the breach of agreement between the firm and the government. He said the loss of revenue to the firm over the refusal of the government to hand over the old domestic terminal of the Lagos Airport was responsible for the firm’s default in paying the loan it took from a consortium of banks. Oshobie said the position of Bi-Courtney in its faceoff with AMCON over the controversial debt settlement agreement between the two had for the umpteenth time been upheld by the judiciary. Ruling in an oral application by Bi- Courtney to vacate the order, which was allegedly procured by AMCON, Justice M.I. Buba struck out the order on the grounds that it was an abuse of process, and declared that the order was a nullity. Bi- Courtney described the ruling as a victory for the

By Joseph Jibueze

Babalakin to Justice Buba, who was handling previous cases between the parties. Justice Buba added that it was clear that AMCON and Agbakoba failed to notify Justice Abang of the existing orders and cases. According to him, AMCON acted as if the court “can only bark but not bite”. Nullifying Justice Abang’s order, Justice Buba held: “This court has no doubt its process has been

By Kelvin Osa Okunbor

rule of law, “even as it has strengthened confidence in the judicial process.” The company described the purported takeover of the terminal and the old Federal Secretariat, both in Lagos, by AMCON, as a contrived and reckless action as well as a deliberate assault on the integrity of the judicial system by the self-styled receiver, Mr. Agbakoba. The head of litigation also described the management of AMCON and its counsel as serial users of the law, noting that the order purportedly obtained by Agbakoba was fraudulently and unlawfully obtained from the Federal High Court by concealing the existence of two court orders since November 4, 2011. He said the suit restrained the Federal Government and AMCON from interfering with the operations and finances of Bi-Courtney and Resort International Ltd as well as their related or associated companies. “It is noteworthy that with AMCON being a party in the above matter and Olisa Agbakoba being its counsel, the purported appointment of same as a receiver was a demonstrable evidence of the cavalier, contemptuous and illegal action. “The failed attempt by AMCON to disrupt the operations of MMA 2 is insensitive, with grave implications for the drive to engender a private sector-led resuscitation of public infrastructure and the nation’s economy. It is a deliberate attempt to frustrate investments, commercial development and job creation in the country.”

abused. It has been misled on the issue of settlement, breaking down and obtaining orders ex-parte, while cases are pending in court, with orders subsisting. “Where a court of law feels its orders are irregularly obtained, or its process abused, it shall deal with the process instantaneously, without any formality, to protect its integrity. “The order is a nullity, having been obtained ex-parte in the face of subsisting orders already made by this court and also which constitute

an abuse of the court process. This court will not suspend it (the order). “The court has inherent jurisdiction to deal with abuse of its process and any conduct that impugns its integrity. “I so deem and set aside the orders of September 22 made by my brother Abang J. The court was misled. It is within the issues that this court can deal with,” Justice Buba held. He urged senior lawyers to avoid misleading the court in a bid to obtain orders, saying a situation where

conflicting decisions emanate from the same court is not healthy. “The court has to be rightly guided at all times,” he said. There was a mild drama after the ruling as lawyers to the parties came outside the courtroom downstairs. Babalakin, who was represented by Mr. Wale Akoni (SAN), was discussing with his junior colleagues, apparently the outcome of the case, when Agbakoba called his name “Wale!” After calling his name, Agbakoba told Babalakin, who sat in his car while the proceeding was on: “Give me my money!” Babalakin responded by saying he would “come after” Agbakoba “personally.” Apparently riled, Agbakoba described Babalakin as a “small boy” and referred to his (Agbakoba’s) seniority at the Bar. As the two lawyers exchanged words, Akoni and Mr. Biodun Layonu (SAN) tried to calm them. Akoni told them to remember that there were reporters around. Before the bench ruling, Akoni argued that the integrity of the court had been affected by the conflicting orders, and that there was a serious need for the court to act fast to stop the development. Agbakoba said as far as he was concerned, there was no confusion with Abang’s orders. He said the suit before Abang was filed pursuant to Babalakin’s alleged admission that he was indebted to AMCON for N50 billion. According to him, Babalakin failed to abide by the term of the agreements, especially as regard transferring the Federal Secretariat in Ikoyi to AMCON as agreed. Justice Buba adjourned the matter till December 9.

‘N1.1b subsidy fraud’: Court summons EFCC’s witness

Four policemen injured in bid to rescue trapped victims From Osagie Otabor, Benin

By Adebisi Onanuga

OUR policemen at the Edo State House of Assembly, who wanted to rescue trapped accident victims, were injured yesterday when the driver of a Toyota Camry rammed into them at the Oba Ovoranmwen Square. They were injured and taken to the University of Benin Teaching Hospital and the Central Hospital. It was learnt that the driver lost control of the car near Airport Road junction and rammed into the policemen. The victims the policemen wanted to rescue were trapped in a Sunny Nissan car. Six persons, including two women, were inside the car marked AC 740 BEN. They were trapped for about seven hours before they were rescued. The Director of Operations, Edo State Traffic Management Agency, Amadin Uwas, said the accident involving the Nissan Sunny car occurred about 1am. He said the accident was caused •The Sunny Nissan car in which six persons were trapped...yesterday by excessive speeding.

Unlawful detention: Court orders SSS to apologise to El-Rufai

FEDERAL High Court in Awka, Anambra State ordered yesterday the State Security Service (SSS) to apologise to a former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mallam Nasir El-Rufai and pay him N2million as damages for unlawful detention. The SSS detained El-Rufai at Finotel Hotel in Awka on November 15 and 16 last year

From: Yusuf Alli, Managing Editor, Northern Operation

during the Anambra State governorship election. Disturbed by his maltreatment, El-Rufai sued the SSS and the attorney-general of the federation for redress. In his judgment, Justice Ibrahim Bature Gafai held that the detention of El-Rufai was illegal.

•Awards N2m damages A statement by the Media Advisor to the ex-minister, Muyiwa Adekeye, quoted the judge as saying: “The SSS has no statutory powers under the 1999 Constitution or under any Nigerian law to detain ElRufai without showing cause to a court of competent jurisdiction. “The court therefore ordered

the SSS to publish an apology in two national newspapers for the unlawful and unconstitutional violation of his liberty. “In addition to the apology and monetary damages, the court also made significant pronouncements regarding the restriction of movement during elections. “The court declared that the

respondents have no powers under the constitution or under any law to either impose a general restriction on movement or restrict the applicant’s constitutional right of freedom of movement as enshrined in Section 34 of the constitution on account of the Anambra State governorship election held on November 16 last year or any other election.

USTICE Lateefat Okunnu of a Lagos High Court, Ikeja yesterday summoned a witness of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Kehinde Akinmolayan, for repeatedly failing to appear in court. He is expected to give evidence in support of the prosecution in the trial of an oil marketer, Opeyemi Ajuyah, over allegations of fuel subsidy fraud. Ajuyah and her company, Majope Investment, are on trial with another oil marketer, Abdullahi Alao and his company, Axe Eneryg Nigeria Ltd and Olanrewaju Olalusi, a worker with Sterling Bank Plc, for an alleged N1.1billion fuel subsidy fraud. At the resumed hearing, EFCC’s prosecuting counsel, Mr. Rotimi Oyedepo, told the court that Akimolayan, a principal witness in the trial, refused to honour invitations to give evidence. He claimed that the witness alleged that some persons were after his life and that one of the suspects attempted to enter his home. Oyedepo said the witness was adamant despite assurances to protect his life. He prayed the court to summon him. Justice Okunnu granted the request. The matter was adjourned till tomorrow.

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2014

• Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola (middle), Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Ayo Gbeleyi (second right), his Establishments, Training and Pensions counterpart, Mrs. Florence Oguntuase (fourth right), Chairman, Research and Development Council, Professor Olufemi Bamiro (fourth left) and others during the disbursement of Research grants to beneficiaries at the Lagos House, Ikeja...yesterday. PHOTO: OMOSEHIN MOSES

Oritsejafor, Falana clash

Flag designer gets salary for life Continued from page 1

people, the taxi driver, Imeh Usuah, Corporal Solomon Dauda, presidential steward, Mr. Isaac Michael Onuh. Those who take into criminalities because of poverty are not quite right because myself and some of you here knew where we are coming from. We passed through stress but we didn’t take to criminality. For these gentlemen, we appreciate you. The FCT Minister will give one flat each to the three of them.” Speaking further on the presidential steward, he said: “A very dedicated steward who has served every Head of State loyally since President Shehu Shagari. From Shagari till today, to have survived about nine presidents and nine first ladies, you must be a great man.” On the reward to the national flag designer, Jonathan said: “As someone who contributed so much to the history of this country, the person who designed the Nigerian flag, Pa Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi, who was also honoured here, you have to place him on a salary of special assistant to the President forever.” He expressed the hope that the recognition accorded all the recipients would inspire other Nigerians to rededicate themselves to rendering services to Nigeria and humanity. Underscoring the essence of the awards, the President said:

“No great nation toys with honours that constitute its national code of ethics”. The President said the national honour must never be seen as a piece of paper or garland that can be obtained by persons of questionable character. He urged Nigerians to actively participate in the nomination process whenever it is advertised in the media, even as he noted that the broader spectrum exhibited in this year’s award was an indication of the wide search conducted by the Honours Committee. While 313 persons were on the 2013/2014 national honour award list yesterday, the Master of Ceremony skipped the name of Olorogun Felix Ibru. President of the Court of Appeal Zainab Bulkachuwa (CFR), on behalf of the recipients , said the honour would serve to ginger the awardees to do more for the nation. Secretary to the Government of the Federation Anyim Pius Anyim, recalled that the annual awards were instituted by the Order of Dignity Act of 1963. Chairman of the Honours Award Committee and former Chief Justice of Nigeria Alfa Belgore spoke of a rigorous screening to select persons of honour and impeccable character for the awards. He said that 4,737 persons have received all categories of the national honours from 1963

Continued from page 1

an agency of the South African government. Two Nigerians and an Israeli were fer-

•President Jonathan presenting Pa Akinkunmi with the OFR National Award…yesterday.

to date with 313 recipients for 2013/2014. After receiving the awards of Commander of the Order of Niger (CON), Governors Ibikunle Amosun (Ogun) and Olusegun Mimiko (Ondo) promised to bring more dividends of democracy to the people of their states. Amosu said the honour meant that his efforts at making life meaningful for the people were being appreciated. He said: “It (the national honour) means that we should work more for the nation, work more for the states; that is what it means to me. “When you are given award like this, you are honoured; it is a call for more service. Amosun said he would not

agree with those who said the awards have become an all-comers affair. “It is like describing an elephant, it is from the perspective from which you are looking at it. Yes, there may be one or two misgivings about it; people will talk anyway. That is why I will not want to totally agree with them in that perspective. I think whoever is given, it is a call to serve more, render selfless service to the nation and to our different states,” he said. Among the awardees was the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, who was represented at the ceremony.

rying the cash. The CAN president has defend his integrity, saying enemies of Christianity were linking him to the deal. Falana, in a statement in Lagos, contended that the explanation by CAN that the jet was leased to another company was an admission of the breach of the law. According to him, “ a jet registered for the facilitation of evangelism cannot be leased to another company for commercial purposes as churches are registered under part C of the Company and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) as non-profit making organisation.” “If Pastor Oritsejafor is lucky that he is not prosecuted for breaching the CAMA, he owes Nigerians a public apology. The CAN leadership cannot afford to engage in attacking its political opponents in a matter pertaining to the breach of the law,” Falana said. The lawyer, who also noted that the Federal Government, was relying on diplomatic resolution of the money laundering case pointed out that such effort will not yield any result. “Having not learnt any lesson from the disgraceful case of Chief James Ibori, the Federal Government is currently

Attack on judges: Fayose, CJ take battle to Abuja Governor-elect welcomes probe of attack on judge

Continued from page 1

holders in the Judiciary that he has no political affiliation and there was no basis for the invasion of his chamber by thugs. “Justice Daramola has also submitted documentary evidence to the brief he has sent to the NJC and the CJN.” A source close to Fayose, who responded to our correspondent’s enquiries at about 7.15pm, said: “The governorelect on Monday met with President Goodluck Jonathan where he said he was never part of the mayhem unleashed on judges to desecrate the Judiciary. “He denied watching over the beating of a judge as being alleged. He came to the Presidency to clarify the insinuations about his alleged role in the assault on judges.” The source also explained that Fayose, through his counsel, Mr. Owoseni Ajayi (a former NBA Chairman and Attorney-General in Ekiti

KITI State Governor-Elect Mr Ayodele Fayose has supported the probe of last week’s attack on judges and courts in Ado-Ekiti. Thugs, who were alleged to be Fayose’s supporters, attacked a judge and tore his suit. National Judicial Council (NJC) has received a report on the attack, which was roundly condemned as an assault on the judiciary. The probe, Fayose said, will open “a can of worms”. According to him, the NJC should look at issues dispassionately and not be swayed by the “propaganda” launched by the All Progressives Congress on the origin of the violence. He denied slapping Mr. Justice John Adeyeye, adding that stories linking him to the incident were a grand plan by the opposition to stall his October 16 inauguration. Said Fayose: “What I am saying is that the NJC should launch a thorough probe of the happenings in Ekiti State judiciary and

State) submitted a petition to the Office of the CJN. In spite of efforts to obtain a copy of Fayose’s petition, the source insisted that it won’t be

From Gbade Ogunwale, Abuja

through that, the rot in the system will be exposed. “A lot of things are happening there and there are signs that some judicial officers are conniving with the outgoing governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi, and the APC. “The current crisis is an agenda of the APC and their sole aim is to try and get through the back door what the people of the state did not give them on June 21 when they voted overwhelmingly for me and the Peoples Democratic Party. “I did not and cannot slap a judge. I cannot slap a house boy, let alone a High Court Judge, and I have utmost respect for judicial officers. “The media propaganda that I beat up a judge is an APC agenda to portray me in bad light, having failed to take my mandate through the back door. “The Ekiti State Attorney General, Wale Fapounda, has disclosed that he has spoken with the judge in question, and he

released to the public yet. But the source added: “I can give you some snippets. The Governor-elect has asked the CJN to constitute a panel to

spoke on Sunrise programme on Saturday morning on Channels TV, where he made it clear that the news that I slapped the Judge was all lies. “I did not enter Justice John Adeyeye’s court because I had no business to transact there. The tribunal venue, where I went to, is quite a distance from Adeyeye’s court. Then the pertinent question is, ‘at what point did I meet him’? “Is it that the Judge left his courtroom with his robe to face the so called protesters? Investigation will reveal all this. “Up until now, nobody has been able to provide photo or video evidence that I slapped the judge. And the APC people should know that I will not succumb to blackmail and surrender the mandate freely given to me by the people of the state”. Fayose said the leadership of the PDP, on the platform of which he got elected, was aware of the various petitions written to the NJC by APC leaders in Ekiti, insisting that investigation would reveal the truth.

look into what is happening in Ekiti State Judiciary. He said after being sworn in as governor, he will still be ready to appear before the panel.

“He also asked the CJN to call Ekiti CJ to order as some forces are trying to use him to halt his inauguration on October 16.

Boko Haram on the rampage again in Adamawa villages

ANY people were killed and houses destroyed in Adamawa State villages - Kubi and Watu in Michika Local Government Area, by rampaging Boko Haram fighters yesterday. According to some of the

villagers who spoke to reporters, the insurgents overran the villages in the early hours of yesterday as the people were sleeping. Many of the dead were trapped in the fires set to their houses by the insurgents. A village source who said his

village had been completely destroyed said: “The insurgents have burnt our houses and some of our children, women and old men were trapped in the inferno. The fire is still burning because there was nobody to put off the fire. I don’t know why they are

so angry and mercilessly killing anybody they come across this time,” he said Another source said: “Since the complete take-over of Michika and Madagali by the insurgents on September 7, there are no more soldiers guarding the

towns. The only thing now is that jet fighters come from Yola to drop bombs and go back. Our people are in a complete state of helplessness. Government seems not to be coming to our aids as the insurgents control everything in our local government.”

embroiled in an unnecessary controversy with South Africa over the arrest of two Nigerians and an Israeli for smuggling $9.3 million into that country. “The three suspects are alleged to have contravened the provisions of Section 30 of the Financial Intelligence Centre Act NO 38 of 2001 of South Africa, which stipulates that a person intending to convey an amount of cash in excess of the prescribed sum of $10,000.00 to or from South Africa ‘must report the prescribed particulars concerning that conveyance to a person authorised by the Minister for this purpose’. “The centre applied for an order of interim forfeiture from a High Court for seizure of the fund. In granting the application, the court ordered that the fund be kept in the Reserve Bank for 90 days. Within that period the suspects are at liberty to convince the court why the fund was not declared. Otherwise, a final order will be made for the confiscation of the money. “As the said sum of $9.3million was not declared at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, the suspects equally breached Section 1 of the Money Laundering Act 2011 of Nigeria which provides that the transportation of cash or negotiable instruments in excess of $10,000.00 or its equivalent by an individual in or out of the country shall be declared for the Nigeria Custom Service” which shall report same to the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Economic and the Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC),” he said. Pastor Oritsejafor told the National Executive Council meeting of CAN that he was never a party to the movement of the $9.3m cash. “I want to assure you that I will not do anything to tarnish the image of Jesus Christ or compromise the divine standard of the church,” he said. “I believe that the primary institution that I owe any explanation to is the church. At the risk of being seen to be defending myself, I wish to confirm to the distinguished leaders of the church that the Bombardier Challenger 601 aircraft in question is mine. The aircraft was presented to me as a gift by members of our congregation and ministry partners worldwide at my 40th anniversary of my call into the ministry. “May I be permitted to stress that the aircraft was not given to me by the President of Nigeria, neither was it a settlement for any political favour or patronage. “With the benefit of hindsight, the President of the country was a guest in our church during the anniversary celebration when the jet was presented to me.”

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THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2014

THE NATION TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 30, 2014

NEWS Fayemi urges Nigerians to fund researches on women

Aderiye’s murder: Police arrest 19 suspects in Ekiti

HE police in Ekiti State have arrested 19 suspects, including a

woman, following the assassination of Chief Omolafe Aderiye, the former chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), last Thursday. In a statement by its spokesperson, Mr. Victor Babayemi, the police command said the arrests were made between last Saturday and yesterday. The statement also noted that thorough investigation had begun. Babayemi said: “All of them are still with us as we are investigating their levels of culpability. It is a sen-

From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

sitive case and investigations have to be thorough. All of them are also helping us (the police) in our investigations.” He said it would not be possible to reveal the identities of those undergoing interrogation, adding that they would be “made known at the appropriate time”. The command spokesperson said the police held a separate meeting with leaders of the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), NURTW, traders, religious leaders, okada riders and other interest groups to find a lasting

solution to the upsurge of violence. At the meeting headed by the Assistant Inspector-General in charge of Zone 8, Mr. Christopher Dega and the Ekiti State Commissioner of Police were eight traditional rulers. They were Oba Idowu Adamo Babalola (the Onitaji of Itaji and Chairman, Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers); Oba Adebayo Adewole, the Ajero of IjeroEkiti; Oba James Adedapo Popoola, Oore of Otun-Ekiti; and Oba Gbadebo Adedeji, Owa Ooye of Okemesi. Others were Oba Olu Adegoke Adeyemi, Alara of Aramoko; Oba Oluwole Ademolaju, the Oloye of Oye

•‘Why I shunned National Honours’ event’

•Acting IGP Suleiman Abba

kingdom and Oba Samuel Ajiboye, the Onisan of IsanEkiti. The police commissioner urged the traditional rulers to maintain and sustain peace, adding that they have influence on their people, which he urged them to use.

‘Lagos councils’ polls may not hold this year’

HAIRMAN of Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) Justice Fatai Adeyinka (rtd) has explained why elections might not be conducted into the state’s councils this year. The tenure of the state’s elected councils’ members expires next month. Adeyinka spoke on the floor of the House of Assembly yesterday when he presented a report on the commission’s preparedness for elections into the 57 councils. The House, at a plenary last week, invited the LASIEC’s chairman to brief the lawmakers on the preparation to conduct the election before the expiration date. But he named two constraints in conducting the

By Oziegbe Okoeki

elections - the issue of polling units and voter register as well as executive’s delay in approving report of delineation of wards. He said: “Although polling units have also been increased to a total of 1,061, it is the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) that has the constitutional right to create polling units while LASIEC delineate wards, though there is cooperation between the two bodies. “But the major constraint from INEC end is on the issue of voter register.” He said the register with INEC has no address of voters, adding: “We have written to INEC to supply the addresses. But INEC said it would not do that, but of-

fered to give us the 2011 register on payment of huge sum of money. “But we want to use the current voter register because using the 2011 register would disenfranchise many voters. And stakeholders expect us to use the current voter register,” Adeyinka said. On the second constraint, he explained that though the commission has completed the delineation of wards and submitted the report to the governor, it was yet to receive any response from the executive. “We had 376 wards in the state before. This has been increased to 417 with the creation of additional 41 wards. We are expected to use the new wards in the next election and until we have response on the report from the

governor, we cannot hold election because it is expedient to use it to avoid wasting human and material resources,” he said. The LASIEC chief said without overcoming these constraints and hurdles, the commission cannot conduct free, fair and credible election. Responding, the Deputy Speaker, Kolawole Taiwo, who presided at the plenary, said there was a need to come up with a stop-gap measure to avoid a vacuum in the councils when the tenure of the current office-holders expires next month. He mandated the House Committee on Judiciary to liaise with the executive and come up with a law, even on interim basis, as a stop-gap measure to avoid a vacuum pending when elections will be held.

Synagogue: Fashola to apply the law By Miriam Ekene-Okoro

•Fashola

AGOS State Governor Babatunde Fashola (SAN) said yesterday that his administration would apply the law when the ongoing investigation into the cause of the collapsed Synagogue Guest House is completed. Fashola spoke when members of the Nigeria Institute of Town Planners led by the Commissioner for Physical Planning, Olutoyin Ayinde, visited him at Ikeja, Lagos. He said coroner inquest had been instituted by the Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Ade Ipaye, stressing that investigation on the cause and manner of the collapse would continue. “I think we must understand that our government has repeatedly said we will investigate it. We will defi-

nitely do so. Last week, the Attorney-General empanelled the Coroner’s Court because that is the appropriate machinery of the government to undertake this kind of investigation, especially when people die in such tragic or unnatural circumstances. “I think we should just allow that process to go on. I think the investigation will be held if we refrain from any comment about this incident. This is the way that every civilised society proceeds and we must assume that all the necessary provisions of law will be complied with. “That is our track record here and nothing less will happen in this case. That is the minimum every government must do. People must understand that when accidents like this happen, there are many stages to it. Perhaps, we have got used to what was an inappropriate conduct to get to the scene of crime or accident and to pronounce this is what has happened before the investigation is concluded. “We are professionals. We are not trained like that. If people are not used to our methods, they must get used to it because that is the way we are going to act. We

are going to act methodically. We are going to act in a civilised manner.” The governor noted that investigations are always painstaking and scientific, adding that Lagos has shown capacity in this area. He explained that in an incident of that nature, the initial thing to do was to search and rescue, followed by recovery stage. “We recover and protect the site and all the materials that can be gathered from there. It is from the recovery stage that the investigation stage follows”, he said, warning that it was wrong for non-professionals to assume that those involved in an accident are dead without certification from a medical doctor. “This kind of behaviour must stop. Unless there is anybody keeping dead bodies in his house and private hospital, we are the regulators and all those bodies come to our mortuaries. So, we must account for them as we will. I understand the public interest in this, but we must act methodically. The governor attributed incidents of building collapse to human errors and individuals trying to cut corners. “Although the planning permit stage is also a stage

in which some problems can be nipped in the bud in terms of design, calculation for load bearing structure and so forth. You could have obtained a permit to build in a particular way and you are building in a manner that is inconsistent with the approval that you have. “Are you using the right gauge of steel that you got approval for? Are you using inferior gauge or small gauge? Are you mixing your aggregate and cement according to the approval that you got?” He added that irrespective of ownership of the structure, the truth remains that professionals breach the rule. “Government, as an artificial legal entity, is not the one responsible for those collapses. It is individuals like you and me, men and women, who have broken the rules. If the buildings erected by Europeans are still standing 70 or 80 years after they did so, this generation must be provoked to self-examination. “Why is Cocoa House still standing and the buildings constructed 20 years ago coming down? All the professionals in this field must wake up and do their work appropriately,” he said.

KITI State Governor Kayode Fayemi has urged philanthropists to use their wealth to fund studies on gender equality and women empowerment. He made the appeal yesterday at the inauguration of the Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi Centre for Gender and Social Policy Studies donated by his wife to the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State. The governor said his wife’s passion for supporting the course of women over the years was beyond his expectation. Fayemi explained that he decided to shelve important events yesterday after the inauguration of the centre had been scheduled and extensive preparations made. He said: “It is thus at great cost that I am here in demonstration of my dedication to a worthy cause. Nothing can be more important than this (donation of the project). The CON can be posted to me by courier, but nobody can post this to me. “I hope for those who would consider taking the altruistic step of giving back to their alma mata would find the thematic area of Gender Equality and Empowerment a worthy cause to support in these days that the girl-child and women in our society suffer from untold discrimination and hazards to their health, well-being and future prospects.

From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

“My wife and I are proud alumni of OAU. As our alma mater, we have not only drunk from the fountain of this great citadel of learning, it was here as students studying at the Hezekiah Oluwasanmi Library that God ordained for us to meet and forge a life partnership built on common values and a shared passion for the development of disadvantaged segments of the society. “To the glory of God, what started here has blossomed into 25 years of a glorious marriage, characterised by our fair share of the highs and the lows, yet steadfast in the pursuit of our lives’ goals.” Mrs. Adeleye-Fayemi, in her address, said that she resolved to lay the foundation of the centre two years ago. She said last year when she turned 50 provided an opportunity for her to put all what she had been advocating into practice. The university’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Bamitale Omole, described the governor’s wife, as an alumnus who has consistently identified and stood behind the university. He said: “Based on the background checks on you, the Senate and Council of the OAU approved naming this centre after you. Many big names have been denied this privilege.”

Demolition: Ogun landlords decry non-compensation

ANDLORDS and residents who lost their homes following the demolition of structures to pave way for a major road construction in Ifo Local Government Area of Ogun State have petitioned Governor Ibikunle Amosun over their fate. The affected landlords, in a statement under the aegis of Yakoyo-Odozi Landlords and Residents Association yesterday, expressed surprise that about seven months after the demolition of their homes, the government had not deemed it fit to compensate them. The statement by the association’s Vice-Chairman, Prof. Olukunle Macaulay, and secretary, Mr. Kola Ewejobi, noted: “Our concern is that the people affected who were comfortable before the demolition have been subjected to poverty, health hazard and psychological illness. The landlords added that much as they appreciated the efforts of the governor to bring development to the area and having accepted the demolition of their homes as the needed sacrifice, they also expected the government to play its part by compensating them as promised.

Traders take over Carter Bridge

GROUP, the Concerned Youth of Lagos, has slammed traders and motorists for constituting a nuisance on the Lagos Carter Bridge. The group’s head, Kehinde Aderoju, said: “As 2015 elections approach, the muchtalked about transformation of Lagos into a mega city dwindles by the day. “Carter Bridge, which links Lagos Island to Mainland (Ido/ Oyingbo), has become a

trouble centre for motorists heading for Lagos Island from the Mainland.” He urged the Lagos State government to take action by sanctioning bus drivers, who have turned the bridge to a terminus. “Okada riders are now seen on highways. Officials of the Central Business District (CBD) should wake up to their responsibilities by evacuating traders on the Carter Bridge,” Aderoju said.

Alumni to reposition college By Bowale Odukale

RESIDENT, Imperial College Association of Nigeria Olugbenga Adelana has unveiled programmes lined up to reposition the association and add values to the nation. Adelana, who spoke in Lagos, said the association would partner with other institutions to create awareness and enlighten the public, including government officials, to solve some challenges facing the country. He urged graduates of the college to join the association in showcasing their qualities in that direction. The association, he added, is organising an interactive session tomorrow to welcome its new members and also promote interaction between new and regular members. Also, a yearly symposium on discussions and solutions to Nigeria’s challenges is also on its new agenda.

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2014

BUSINESS THE NATION

E-mail:- bussiness@thenationonlineng.net

Sovereign Wealth Funds are managed conservatively. They don’t borrow money the way banks do, so you can’t compare this business to banking business. This business does not expose itself to that kind of risk. It is not the same thing as private equity •Managing Director/CEO, NSI A, Uche Orji

ATA can reduce hunger, poverty By Daniel Essiet

• From left: Head, Compliance, Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers Limited, Mrs. Idu Okwuosa; Head, Product Management, Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System Plc, Mr. Dapo Adeosun; Head, Business Development, Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers Limited, Mrs. Nike Bajomo; Executive Director, Operations, Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers Limited, Mr. Steve Elusope and Chief Executive Officer, Stanbic IBTC Trustees, Mrs. Binta Max-Gbinije, at an Employers’ forum organised by Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers Limited in Lagos.

‘AEDC to roll out 100,000 meters yearly’

HE Abuja Electricity Distribu tion Company (AEDC) will rollout 100,000 pre-paid meters yearly, the Managing Director, Neil Croucher, has said. Croucher, who made this known in Abuja, said the measure is intended to address the company's coverage areas' metering gap . He said: "We inherited a huge metering gap with different billing systems that do not communicate with one another. Indeed, there are five different vending platforms which we're trying to harmonise so that they can communicate with each other; meaning that customers can buy their electricity token from any part of the areas covered

From John Ofikhenua, Abuja

by AEDC. "The operation of five different vending platforms have their challenges, which were not in the interest of our customers and our operation." He said the company has arranged to install 100,000 meters a year in order to wipe out the backlog in its coverage areaas as quickly as possible, adding, "after securing the (metering) platform, we can then introduce our e-payment solution through which customers can purchase power either through internet, cellphones and e-banking, among others."

The AEDC boss explained that the company is planning to migrate from the manual billing system it inherited to the modern one."In the next few weeks, we should have the single (vending) platform commissioned and then rolled out to our entire supply area. He saif the firm has six billing centres that would also communicate with each other and give it a centralized data base", Croucher added. He said in line with the proposed billing system, the company is making plans for a new meter reading system that would capture data electronically and automatically upload same into the company's

Seadrill, Heirs Holdings launch deepwater drillship for Total

• Elumelu

HE Chairman of Heirs Holdings, an African investment Company, Tony O. Elumelu, has commissioned the sail away of Seadrill Nigeria Limited’s sixth-generation drill ship christened, ‘West Jupiter.’ This initiative is part of the global partnership between Heirs Holdings and Seadrill Nigeria Limited. The West Jupiter is the latest addition to the Total Upstream Nigeria Limited (Total) fleet of ultra-deep water vessels operating in Nigerian waters. The submersible deepwater drill rig built by Samsung Heavy Industries in

Korea for Seadrill Nigeria, has the capacity to operate in 12,000 feet of water. The $1.1 billion contract to operate the ship for an initial five-year period, was awarded to Seadrill Nigeria by Total as part of the Egina deepwater project. Heirs Holdings is a joint venture partner and significant equity investor in Seadrill Nigeria. The commissioning is a milestone in Nigeria’s offshore sector, and aligns with the government’s policy of deepening indigenous participation in the oil and gas industry. During the official sail away ceremony in the Samsung Hotel in Geoje, South Korea, Elumelu, Chairman of the Board of Seadrill Nigeria: “The partnership between Heirs Holdings and Seadrill is an important part of our strategy of investing in Africa’s long-term economic development and today, we celebrate an inspiring example of global collaboration.” “The vessel we are flagging off was built in South Korea by Samsung and will be oper-

ated by a Nigerian crew for a French customer, developing one of Nigeria’s oil fields. It represents a genuine commitment to knowledge sharing and indigenous participation in Nigeria’s resource sector and is a milestone that we can all be proud of.” Seadrill’s Senior Vice President for Middle East and Africa, Eduardo Antonello said: “In Brazil, we have 80 per cent local staff in the field and I would like for us to achieve the same in Angola and in Nigeria. We are heading to sixty percent in Nigeria, but the only way to get that number up to eighty to eighty-five per cent is to train people. We and our partners, Heirs Holdings, are very keen on investing in training local crews; and long term contracts, like Total’s, give us just the opportunity to do that.” The Executive Secretary, Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, Ernest Nwapa, emphasized the Nigerian government’s growing insistence that local-international partnerships become the model for engagement in the Nigerian oil industry.

billing system, thus eliminating estimated billing and ensuring the integrity of bills. Responding to a question on allegations that the Discos' indebtedness to banks is suffocating the banking sector, the Abuja Disco boss said: "I think it is important to separate the company, Abuja Electricity Distribution Company from its owners. "AEDC has not obtained any loan and so we don't have loan repayment issue or debt overhang on our necks, though we would be taking loans in the process so that we would be able to fund the many projects which are required", he affirmed.

HE Country Coordinator, Socodevi,an international agency, Mr Neji Abang said the Agricultural Transformation Agenda (ATA) policy of the Federal Government is capable of reducing hunger and poverty. Speaking with The Nation, Abang said the ATA has the capability to improve rural livelihoods and human health, and facilitate equitable, socially, environmentally and economically sustainable development. Given the focus on hunger, poverty and livelihoods, he said ATA paid special attention to the current situation,and address issues that improve the situation for poor rural people, especially small-scale farmers, rural laborers and others with limited resources. According to him, ATA as policy,also addresses issues contentious issues such as the environmental consequences of productivity increases, long-term availability and price of food, and the implications of climate change on agricultural production. He said sustainable agricultural production is dependent on effective management of a range of issues and that ATA is also crucial in supporting the efforts of actors at different levels—from household to national, level as well as improve rural livelihoods and the environment in order to ensure equitable and environmentally, socially and economically sustainable development. Assessing ATA, he maintained, sets the stage for an informed choice by decision-makers among various options for development and indicates how policy and institutional frameworks at all organisational levels can help the government to achieve sustainability goals.

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2014

14 USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS ON ANY EMERGENCY Council endorses the useful phone numbers submitted by the security agents for easy access in case of any emergency on the metropolitan roads. Accordingly, the general public may easily Contact KAROTA for: Breakdown of Vehicle(s), Traffic Congestion, Accidents, and Illegal/Wrong Parking to kindly Call KAROTA through the following numbers on – 08091626747. Similarly, the State Police Command could be contacted on – 08032419754, 08123821575. In addition, the State Fire Service can be contacted on – 07051246833, 08191778888.

168TH KANO STATE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEETING PREPARED BY COUNCIL AFFAIRS DIRECTORATE, OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY TO THE STATE GOVERNMENT, GOVERNMENT HOUSE, KANO.

overnor Engr. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE second coming has positively transformed all sectors for the benefit of the entire citizenry not only in Kano State but indeed Nigeria as a whole. People all over are attesting to the fact that there is a purposeful leadership in Kano now. So far, the journey has been eventful in which all sectors have been gingered progressively toward transforming and upgrading of socio –economic wellbeing of the good people of the State. His visionary leadership has resulted in boosting educational, Agricultural Development in the State and ensuring the provision of well coordinated Healthcare system as well as the initiation/establishment of empowerment programmes that has been attested as the best since the creation of the State. In Furtherance to the noble objectives of the present administration, the Kano State Executive Council held its 168th Sitting on Wednesday 24th September ’2014. During the Sitting, Fifteen (15) MDAs Submitted Sixty four (64) memoranda out of which Thirty two (32) were Approved in the sum of N1,815,803,873.61.Thus: 1.

OFFICE OF THE DEPUTY GOVERNOR/HON. COMM. FOR LOCAL GOVTS. Presentation of Information memorandum on the Report of the Year 2014/1435AH Ramadan Feeding Programme (IFTASUR –SA’IM):Since the inception of the present administration in 2011 it had continued with the feeding of less privileged citizens during the month of holy Ramadan, (Iftarus –Sa’im) feeding programme. The State Standing Committee on the 2014/1435 AH Ramadan Feeding Programme has been commended for the successful conduct of this year’s programme by the Council. This year’s Ramadan Feeding Programme was implemented in the eight (8) metropolitan Local Government Areas across 176 Centers and was spread in Mosques/ Qur’anic Schools where the sum of N193,446,726.75 was expended for the implementation of the programme. In this direction, the Committee recommended the following to Council for consideration; i. That more private individuals need to be encouraged to either partner with Government in the future Ramadan Feeding Programme for wider coverage to the targeted beneficiaries or completely take over. ii. That the Ramadan Feeding Programme need to be sustained and expanded in view of its socio –economic impacts to the less privileged members of the society and the goodwill and prayers it attract. Accordingly, Council noted the presentation of the report with appreciation. 2.

OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY TO THE STATE GOVERNMENT a) Request for Funds for the Graduation Ceremony of 570No. Youths Trained on Auto-Mechtronics Skills under the Kwankwaso Youth Empowerment Scheme (KWAYES):You may recall that since the inception of the present administration, various youth empowerment schemes were initiated towards eradicating poverty/idleness among the teeming young generation across the 44 LGCAs i.e. Lafiya Jari, Animal Traction, Sporting Activities, and host of other programmes. The content of this memorandum is from the Office of the Special Adviser Community Reorientation Council (CRC) through Office of the Secretary to the State Government submitted a request to Council on the graduation ceremony of fifty seven (570No.) youth trained on Auto Mechatronic skills under the Kwankwaso Youth Empowerment Scheme (KWAYES) in collaboration with the Industrial Training Fund (ITF). In this respect, the Special Adviser recommended Government support of N50,000.00 to each of the fifty seven (570No.) graduants as an entrepreneurship assistance for their business take –off. Council considered and approved the release of N28,500,000.00 for the commitment. b) Request for Funds for the Procurement of Fifty (50) Computer Sets:The content of this memorandum is from the Ministry of Health requesting the sum of N7,250,000.00 for the procurement of 50No. computer sets as part of the requirement for the full re-accreditation of the School of Health Technology. The request was endorsed to Council by the Office of the Secretary to the State Government for consideration. Accordingly, Council considered and approved for release of the stated sum for the commitment. c) Request for Funds for the Sponsorship of 2014 Edition of Kwankwasiyya Non –League Teams Football Competition:The administration of Gov Rabiu has placed great emphasis on development of young talents both in the academic field and sporting activities such that 24 Institutes have been established to train our young men and women in various skills, trades and academic carriers. Among these I situated are Sports academy at Karfi and a Sports college at Kafor Na’isa adjacent to Mahaha Sports complex. The content of this memorandum originated from the Ministry of Information through Office of the Secretary to the State Government on request for funds for the sponsorship of 2014 Edition of Kwankwasiyya Non –League Teams Football Competition. Having recognized the importance of such sporting events in the promotion of unity and progress amongst the youths, the Ministry’s recommendation was endorsed to Council for consideration and approval in the sum of N2,000,000.00. Council considered and approved for the released of the sum of N1,000,000.00 as a complementary donation for the successful conduct of the 2014 competition. d) Request for Funds to Support Training on Ebola Virus Disease in the Education Sector:In its effort to curb out the spread of the deadly Ebola Virus especially among the younger generation (School Pupils). The Ministry of Health has indicted its readiness to collaborate with the Ministry of Education to conduct sanitization training on Standard Operating procedure on Ebola Containment as well as Screening of Pupils for Ebola Virus. The training will target about 24,700 participants across public, private primary and secondary schools in the State, as part of its preparation to commence 2014/2015 academic season. In view of this development, the Ministry developed a budget to support this activity as per details below;

S/N i. ii. iiii. iv.

ITEMS Training Non-Contact IEC Material Facilitators

NUMBER 8000 15 8000 10

FREQUENCY 1 1 1 5

RATE 50.00 15,000.00 70.00 5,000.00 TOTAL

AMOUNT (N 400,000.00 225,000.00 560,000.00 250,000.00 1,435,000.00

Accordingly, Council considered and approved for the release of the sum of N1,435,000.00 for the stated purpose. In furtherance of continuously educating the public and sensitization on the deadly Ebola virus disease (EVD) the sum of N762,200.00 has also been approved for the commitment. Request for Funds to Conduct Media Programme on the Activities of Lafiya Jari Achievement Recorded:The administration of Gov Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso Introduced Lafiya Jari program to train young men and women on basic patent pharmaceutical chemist operations and empower them with start up capital to set up chemist in their wards. This practice was reintroduced during this second coming with more vigor. In fact over 1500 graduated and set up their businesses. A special batch of 500 was trained to set up their business in neighboring states in the north west geopolitical zone. The content of this memo is from the Office of the Special Adviser on Sanitization/Immunization and Coordinator Lafiya Jari through Office of the Secretary to the State Government requesting for funds to conduct media programme on the activities of Lafiya Jari and the achievements recorded since its inception. The media programme is aimed at showcasing the laudable achievements recorded in creating employment opportunities to the teeming youth in the State. Council considered and approved the release of N3,441,570.50 to the Office of the Secretary to the State Government for the stated purpose. Request for Funds to Conduct Head Count of Kano State Students at all Nigerian Tertiary Institutions in Preparation for the Payment of Maintenance and other Allowances:From the day Gov Rabiu Kwankwaso took over as governor in 19992003 and 2011-to date he made education his first, second and third priority. Right from primary to tertiary education tremendous effort was put in place to revive this sector which ultimately resulted in declaring FREE EDUCATION at all levels in Kano state. This promoted a memo from the State Scholarship Board to Council requesting for the sum of N4,799,000.00 to enable it conduct Head Count of Kano State Students at Nigerian Tertiary Institutions in preparation for the payment of maintenance and other allowances of the second (2nd) Batch of 2012/2013 and first (1st) Batch of 2013/2014 academic sessions. Similarly, Council was further informed on the composition of a Committee (7 Teams) comprising of Staff from the Ministry for Higher Education, Scholarship Board and Office of the Special Adviser for the facilitation of the exercise which is expected to be concluded within 4 –Weeks. Accordingly and in line with Government policy on free education, Council considered and approved the release of N4,799,000.00 for the stated commitment. OFFICE OF THE HEAD OF CIVIL SERVICE Request for Funds for the Participation in a Workshop Organized by Judicial Service Commission Scheduled from 13th–17th October, 2014 at Abuja:The judiciary received and still receive special consideration under this administration. It may be recalled that over 26 Magistrate courts were constructed and fully furnishedwith additional 16 under construction currently, while many have been renovated. The high court which has not been renovated for the last twenty seven years was equally given a total face lift in addition to the construction and furnishing of 27 Shariah courts all over the state. This is all in an effort to ensure quick dispensation of justice and to uphold the rule of law. Needless to say the Governor has always maintained there is only one law in the state for everybody irrespective of social status in the society. The content of this memorandum from the judiciary notified Council on the need and request for Government to sponsors six (6) nominated its Staff to participate in a Workshop organized by Judicial Service Commission Abuja, the participants will be acquainted with the knowledge skill of using ICT System which improved productivity. Council considered and approved the release of the sum of N688,000.00 to enable the six nominated staff(s) attend the workshop. Request for Financial Assistance from National Union of Printing, Publishing and Paper Products Workers (NUPPPPROW) to Hosting their Zonal Council Delegates Conference The Office of the Head of Civil Service endorsed to Council the request of financial assistance from National Union of Printing, Publishing and Paper Products Workers (NUPPPPROW) Northwest Zonal Council to host Zonal Council Delegates Conference in Kano. Council considered and approved the release of the sum of N1,000,000.00 as Government Financial Assistant to the union. MINISTRY OF EDUCATION Request for Funds (Allowances) for the English Teachers Posted to the Two (2) Bilingual Colleges in Niamey and Zinder:Last year the Kano state Government under the able leadership of His Excellency Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso went into partnership with Nigerein Government to set up a boarding Secondary school in Niamey to train our young students to be fluent in French language and culture while the Nigerein students will be trained to be fluent in English in addition to normal secondary school curricular. The school has successfully taken up with over 200 students from the state. It is based on the success recorded that another school for Girls only, has now been established in Zinder, with the first admission this academic session. The esteemed Council may recall that in the partnership agreement signed between Niger Republic and the Kano State Government for the two (2) Bilingual Colleges in Niamey and Zinder, the Kano State is to provide English Teachers for the Schools in addition with (N30,000.00) to be added to their normal salary as an incentive with annual leave transportation allowance of (N60,000.00). In this regard, the Ministry of Education identified that, an English Teacher posted to the School in Niamey has yet not received his N30,000.00 as well as N60,000.00 incentive for the out of Country allowances which accrued to ten (10) months arrears for 2013/2014 Season.

Rabi’u Musa Kwankawaso

In line with the above, the Ministry is requesting the sum of N360,000.00 for the settlement of outstanding allowance and also to effect the implementation of two additional English Teachers posted. Accordingly, Council considered and approved as requested. MINISTRY OF HIGHER EDUCATION Request for Funds for the Sponsorship of 250 Kano State Indigenes for Postgraduate Studies at Various Institutions Oversees under the 504 and 505 Schemes:You may recall that since the inception of the present administration under the able leadership of Governor Engr. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE in 2011, the State Government initiated a policy for the Sponsorship of State indigenous students to pursue various postgraduate and under graduate programs abroad. The foreign sponsored scheme was tagged in batches of 500 starting with 501, 502 and 503 respectively. So far 2505 have been sponsored to over 14 countries across the globe. In this regard, some of the successful 501, 502 and 503 State Sponsored students oversees have since returned and some have secured appointments in both public and private sectors in the country while others have been retained abroad due to their outstanding performances. The number of the sponsored students under 501, 502, 503, 504 and 505 programs and their countries of studies are tabled below:S/N FOREIGN SPONSORSHIP A i. ii.

EGYPT Al Masoura University 6 October University

B. i. ii. iii.

CHINA Liaoning University Shenyang University Train-the Trainer (Chinese Language)

C i. ii. D. i. ii. iii. iv. v. vi. vii. Viii Ix x. xi. Xii

JORDAN Mideast Aviation Academy Amman Jordan University of Science &Techno UNITED KINGDOM Sheffield Manchester Cardiff Coventry London School of Hygiene Northumbria London School of Economics Reading East London Greenwich Leicester South Tyne Side Marine College New Castle

Xiii Bradford University (Train-the-Trainer) E. i. ii. iii. iv. v. vi. Vii

MALAYSIA UNISZA Al Madinah University University of Malaya University of Nottingham University of Technology Putra University International Islamic University viii. UTM University

TOTAL NUMBER OF STUDENTS

COURSE

185 40

Nursing MBBS, PHARMACY, APPLIED SCIENCE

37 1

Masters MBBS

Train-the-Trainer

100

PILOTS

Masters Students

5 3 4 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 2

Masters Masters Masters Masters Masters Masters Masters Masters Masters Masters Masters

Marine Engineering

Train-the-Trainer

148 8 13 1 19 11

Masters Masters Masters Masters Masters Masters

7 27

Masters Masters

F i. ii.

UKRAINE Ukraine University SUMY University

2 1

Masters MBBS

G. i. ii. iii.

TURKEY Near east University Near east University Near east University

12 25 40

Masters MBBS Dental Therapist Tech.

iv. Near east & Other Institutions

v. vi. vii. viii.

21 9 3 3

Health Planning & B. Sc Optometry Masters Masters Masters Masters

Yassar University Atlim Unversity Bachcesehir University Cancaya Unversity

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2014 ix. x. vi. xii. xiii. xiv. xv.

Fatih University Gediz University Meliksah University Mevlana University Okan University Zirve University Kultur University

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (USA) Texas A & M University of Public Health Texas

i. I. i. J. i. ii.

POLAND Vincent Political University INDIA Sharda University Sharda University

ii.

DJ College of Dental Science & Research

21 3 19 19 3 9 5

Masters Masters Masters Masters Masters Masters Masters

Masters Public Health

Masters Masters Masters BSc Biomedical & Health Planning

164 60

BSc Dental Surgery & BSc Radiography Masters BSc Psychiatric Nursing BSc Dietetics Masters

iii. Bapuji College of Nursing iv. Bapuji College of Nursing

1 40

v. SRM Davangare iv. Higginbottan Institute v. MSU International Bangalore

5 20

vi. Lovely University vii. SRM Chennai Viii Bapuji University Davangare ix. Krupanidhi College of Pharmacy x. Higginbottan Institute xi. S.S institute of. Medical Science

47 182

MBBS, PHARMACY Pharmacy MASTERS

Pharmacy

12 27

Pharmacy Pharmacy

MBBS

SUDAN Afhad Female Medical University Al Razi University

59 33

iii. Omdurman University

MBBS MBBS/ PHARMACY MBBS

L i. ii. iii. iv. v.

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES Heriott Watt University Middlesex University Abu Dhabi University Manipal University Wollondong University

5 2 1 1 1

Masters Masters Masters Masters Masters

M i.

CYPRUS Cyprus International University

Masters

UGANDA International University of East Africa Cavendish University

197 1

BSc Informatics Masters

K i. ii.

N i. ii.

The Ministry submitted a request to Council for the sponsorship of the 250 admitted students at various oversees Institutions under the 504 and part of 505 Schemes at a total cost of $6,907,115.00 to cater for their tuition, accommodation and examination/registration fees and also students’ upkeep, book allowance, laptop, visa, resident permit, flight ticket, and pocket money. Accordingly, Council considered, approved the release of the sum of $6,907,115.00 as requested and their countries of studies is tabled below: Apart from foreign sponsorship of students, The government further embarked on admission drive for the multitude of indigenous students that finish secondary schools all over the country including Private universities as tabulated below

S/NO

UNIVERSITY

1 2 3 4 5

Bells University Otta Crescent University otta Al Alif University Igbenedion University Benin ABTI University Yola

STATE

NO OF STUDENTS Ogun 250 Ogun 250 Katsina 420 Delta 200 Adamawa 25

Indeed in a gesture to ensure admission of indigenous students in Federal Tertiary and other institutions, the visionary government of H E Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso constructed Hostel blocks at School of Basic Studies ABU Funtua, Usman Danfodio University Sokoto, Al Alim Katsina and University of Maiduguri to assist the institutions solve students accommodation problems. Each hostel is designed to accommodate 300 students. Needless to say the Government has continuously over the last three years been sponsoring students for short term skills and trade acquisition training to various institution all over the country, Such institutions include NAPTIN 23, ITF Abuja 78, 40 Cabin Crew, 20 Aeronautical Engineers and 8 Dispatcher Pilots all at College of Aviation Zaria. 6. MINISTRY OF PLANNING AND BUDGET Request for Funds for the Production of Hard and Soft Copies Kano State Statistical Year Book (2013):The content of this memorandum from the Ministry of Budget and Planning through Secretary to the State Government requesting the sum of N1,430,000.00 to facilitate the production of 600 Hard Copies and 400 Soft Copies of Kano State Statistical Year Book 2013 Edition. Accordingly, the 2013 State Statistical Year Book contains information on Kano State socio economic status includes –weather/ climate, population, human resources, agriculture, transportation, medical/health, finance, water, electricity, building and traditional/ customs of the people in the State. This book will serve as a guide for visitors and reference material for studies. Council considered and approved the release of the sum of N1,430,000.00 for the production of 2013 year book. 7. MINISTRY OF WATER RESOURCES Request for Funds for the Laying of 23.1KM of 1000MM Ductile Iron Pipe from Tamburawa to Hadejia Road:During his first tenure, being a water Engineer himself and someone who worked at the Agency responsible for supplying portable drinking water to Kano metropolis, the administration of Gov Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso then, embarked on an ambitious plan to rehabilitate, expand, modernize and completely overhaul water supply to meet the current challenges of water supply to the city which was then at its

lowest ebb. Immediately he assumed office during his second coming, he directed for the redesign of the water supply not only to the city but the entire state. This resulted in the purchase and laying of 1000mm and 600mm Ductile iron pipe for over 250 kilo meter run across the state. In continuation with the work on greater Kano water supply Council approved the supply of 3,850 lengths of 1000MM Ductile Iron Pipes and Fittings from the Tamburawa Water Treatment Plant to Hadejia Road Pipeline for the provision of potable drinking water that will serve Bompai, Dakata, Nassarawa GRA, Yankaba, Gama and Brigade axis. The Ministry has assessed and prepared Bill of Engineering Measurement and Evaluation (BEME) to process commencement of laying the supplied 23.1KM 1000MM Ductile Iron Pipes from Tamburawa Water Treatment Plant to Hadejia Road at the cost of N211,542,512.50 which council considered and graciously Approved. Request for funds for Pipeline Laying Project from Kafin Chiri to Sumaila:It is pertinent to note that, the present administration had adopted three (3) approach, short, medium and long term measures with a view to boost water supply across the State. In this regard, Government in collaboration with MDG had upgraded the Kafin Chiri regional water plant by construction of new 350M balancing tank, additional 100M treatment units and two (2) 650KVA new generating sets. Government had also procured 3,800 piece of 400MM Ductile Iron Pipes and Fittings in early 2013 which covered the distance of 22.8KM worth over N1,000,000,000.00. The Ministry having observed the significance to improve the capacity of the water plant assessed the cost and submitted a request to Council to construct a new 200M overhead tank at Sumaila town at the cost of N18,500,000.00, as well as replacing the existing high lift pumps at the cost of N6,974,056.00, and provision of three (3) filter loading pumps and five (5) raw water pumps at the cost of N13,535,224.00. Council considered and approved for the release of N39,009,280.00 for the commitment. 8. MINISTRY OF LAND AND PHYSICAL PLANNING Request for Funds for the Rehabilitation of Dorawa Road:As Part of government plan to improve transportation network in the state massive infrastructural development was embarked upon to dualise, expand, modernize and rehabilitate all the roads in the state. This saw the construction of the first ever flyover bridges in Kano city, with the longest in the country spanning Maganda road junction to Triumph roundabout with total length of 2.1 km. Already the ibrahim Taiwo bridge has been completed while the State road has reached 98% completion. Government intervention continued in the reconstruction of major roads across the metropolis since 2011 such as Gwarzo, Hadejia, Sheik Jafar, Independence, Zaria, Sharada, Farm centre roads to mention but few with most of them completed or nearing completion. As such, the necessity for the rehabilitation of such metropolitan roads pave way for the establishment of (KARMA) Kano Road Maintenance Agency (KARMA) to repair roads and ease traffic congestion. In line with this, the Ministry submitted a request for the rehabilitation of Dorawa Road situated in Nassarawa Local Government Area which serves as vital link between Audu Bako Way and Matan Fada Road at the cost of N41,034,102.48 submitted to Council in order to rehabilitate the road. Accordingly, Council considered and approved as requested for the project. Progress in the Preparation for the Implementation of 2013 MDGs – Conditional Grants Scheme Local Government Track:The Government partners with international donor agencies as well as Federal Government in contributing through counterpart funding to execute meaningful project for the benefit of the citizenry of the state. Such areas included the DFID, DANGOTE FOUNDATION, BILL GATES AND MELINDA FOUNDATION, USAID and MDG under the Federal Government such as (OSSAP –MDGs). It is pertinent to note that in Kano State six (6) Local Government Areas were selected for the Projects namely; Dawakin Tofa, Dawakin Kudu, Dambatta, Madobi, Kiru and Tudun Wada LGA. Council noted its decision of Wednesday 13th November, 2013 on the above mentioned issue where it recalled that OSSAP –MDGs had already disbursed the sum of N100Million to each of the six (6) selected Local Governments designated project account while Council further acknowledged the progress on the preparation for the take off of the 2013 MDGs CGS LGA track in accordance with the MDGs operational manual pertaining to due process where the LGAs advertised through National Dailies inviting interested bidders on the shortlisted projects, in Daily Trust and Blueprint both of Tuesday 9th September, 2014. Thus; the financial biddings for the six (6) LGAs total the sum of N1,199,827,611.00 for both projects and supporting activities. Council acknowledged the report, considered and approved the result of the financial tender evaluation exercise to expend the sum of N1,199,827,611.00 for the projects execution in liaising with the OSSAP –MDGs.

In this respect, the Ministry submitted a request to Council for the renovation and construction of a new mosque at the Nuhu Bamalli Hospital including other works such as construction of perimeter fence, generator house and related external works at the cost of N91,298,904.60. Accordingly, Council considered and approved as requested for the project. MINISTRY OF INFORMATION, INTERNAL AFFAIRS, YOUTH, SPORTS AND CULTURE Progress Report on the Empowerment of Football Clubs across the 44 Local Government Areas of the State:In its continued effort towards youth empowerment schemes across the 44 Local Government Areas, Council received a progress report from the Hon. Commissioner for Information, Internal Affairs, Youth, Sport and Culture on the empowerment of Football Clubs across the 44 Local Government Areas who benefitted from the N175,509,000.00 recently approved for the purchase of various kits and cash donations to the eight hundred and eighty eight (880) clubs each as follows; A set of goal post. A set of net. Two (2) sets of jerseys for each club. Two (2) sets of training beeps. A set of training cones. Three (3) pieces of match balls. Three (3) pieces of training balls. N20,000.00 cash donations totaling N17,600,000.00. Accordingly, Council considered and approved for the release of the sum of N13,736,100.00 to facilitate the distribution of the remaining kits to the 322 clubs that are yet to benefit from the programme. 10. MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT Replenishment of Operational Funds for the School of Hygiene for the Implementation of Free Education Policy in the State:In an effort to ensure strict compliance of the present administration policy on free education across the State. Council recall the submission of the earlier memorandum from the School of Hygiene through its mother Ministry (Environment) submitted a request for replenishment of operation funds for the School, which was referred to its committee for study and advise. In this respect, Council acknowledged the submission of the report/ recommendation and approved for the release of the sum of N16,690,648.00 as replenishment of operational funds for the School. Request for Funds for the Construction of Ring Drainage at Ladin Makole/Dawakiji in Dawakin Kudu Local Government:In line with the State Government policy of collaborating with some community based organizations (CBO) to tackle identified environmental problems within Kano Metropolis, the Sustainable Kano Project through Ministry of Environment submitted a request to Council for the construction of a ring drainage at Ladin Makole/ Dawakiji in Dawakin Kudu Local Government Area to address the menace of flooding affecting the area. Accordingly, Council considered and approved for the release of the sum of N12,154,955.61 to facilitate the execution of the project. Request for Funds for the Extension of Drainage Work at Sabo Garba Housing Estate Kabuga:It could be recalled that the current administration had earlier approved in December, 2013 to Sustainable Kano Project to execute first (1st) phase of concrete ring drainage at Sabo Garba Housing Estate as a result of incessant incidences of flooding, the job has successfully been executed. Interestingly, the Community Association of the area also appealed to Government for the second (2nd) phase of the project in which the sum of N14,770,887.00 is requested as Government contribution while the Association will shoulder the Labour at the estimated cost of N2,200,000.00. Accordingly, Council considered and approved for the release sum of N14,770,887.00 for the smooth conduct of the project. 11. MINISTRY OF HEALTH Request for Funds for the Re –accreditation Requirement for the State Owned Health Institutions School of Nursing –School of Midwifery Kano and Dambatta:The Ministry of Health notified Council, through the content of this memorandum on the letter received from the Schools of Nursing Kano, Midwifery Kano and Dambatta informing them, that Nationwide accreditation visits to all the three (3) schools by the Nursing & Midwifery Council sometime in February, 2014 and that, the Council has identified some deficiencies needed to be rectified before the schools are to be re-accreditated and to ensure the provision of:Accordingly, Council considered and approved the release of the sum of N9,027,559.91 as requested for the re-accreditation.

9. MINISTRY OF WORKS, HOUSING AND TRANSPORT Request for Funds for the Construction of 450 Meter Wall Fence, Spanning from Ministry of Higher Education to Sheikh Ja’afar Road Junction:The content of this memorandum came from the Ministry of Higher Education through Ministry of Works with a view to assess and evaluate the extent of work related to 450 meter wall fence, spanning from Ministry of Higher Education to Sheikh Ja’afar Road Junction.

UPDATE ON ACTIVITIES OF THE 168TH SITTING

In furtherance to this, the Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport evaluated the extent of work and prepared Bill of Quantities in the sum of N14,180,705.68. Council considered and approved the release of the sum of N14,180,705.68 as requested for the stated purpose.

CONDUCT OF SEPTEMBER POLIO IMMUNISATION EXERCISE Council noted the successful conduct of September Polio Immunization exercises across the State. The exercise was plag-off at Tudun Fulani Town in Ungogo Local Government Area where His Excellency the Deputy Governor Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje and His Royal Highness the Emir of Kano Alhaji Muhammad Sunusi II attended.

Request for Funds for the Furnishing of Staff Quarters at Northwest University Permanent Site:Education is among the major priorities of the present administration under the able leadership of His Excellency Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso where during his first (1 st ) tenure established Kano University of Science and Technology Wudil which so far has graduated thousands of students from all walks of life.

Council wishes to commend His Royal Highness the Emir of Kano Alhaji Muhammad Sunusi II for attending the exercise and his support to Government to ensure Polio is eradicated from the State. Similarly, Council also wish to thank the public for their support at immunizing their children during the exercise.

Today, history repeats itself in this second (2 nd ) tenure where he engineered for the establishment of another higher institution of learning called Northwest University that so far has admitted over two thousand students for undergraduate courses. The Ministry submitted a request of funds for the furnishing of staff quarters at the permanent site of the Northwest University. Accordingly, Council considered and approved for the release of the sum of N68,831,989.00 for the purpose. Request for Funds for the Renovation, Extension and Construction of New Mosque at Nuhu Bamalli Hospital, Yakasai Quarters:Nuhu Bamalli is an important hospital located in the heart of the city at Kofar Nassarwa. However the hospital lacks space and attend to a very large number of patients. Considering its importance and strategic location the state government acquired adjoining properties and expanded its capacity earlier in the year which move it to abut and encircled existing community mosque.

ARRIVAL OF 1000 DUCTILE IRON PIPES FOR LAYING IN THE STATE Council noted the arrival of yet another batch of 1000mm Ductile Iron Pipes at the Tin Can Island Port, Lagos which were ordered by the State Government to aid in the provision and access to portable drinking water in the State and will cover a distance of 24km. Accordingly, Council directed the Ministry of Water Resource to ensure that the pipes are brought in good condition

SIGNED: HON. COMMISSIONER, INFORMATION, INTERNAL AFFAIRS, YOUTH, SPORTS & CULTURE, KANO STATE

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2014

THE NATION TUESDAY,SEPTEMBER 30, 2014

COMMENTARY EDITORIALS

LETTER

Slap on democracy •PDP’s sole adoption of President Goodluck Jonathan is a slap on the democratic process

HERE is no doubt: every political party has a right to decide its mode of nomination for elected offices — and consensus is not necessarily undemocratic, since it presupposes the freewill of everyone involved to play it that way. But consensus is one thing. Wilful blockage of others’ democratic access is another. It is in this class of blockage of democratic access that the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP’s adoption of President Goodluck Jonathan, as sole candidate in the 2015 presidential election, falls. That is why it is a slap on democracy. PDP party bosses, starting with the body of governors, then the Board of Trustees (BOT) and finally the National Executive Committee (NEC) on September 18, declared the president the PDP sole candidate, even if it has scheduled its presidential primary (now more of presidential candidate coronation) for December 6. Not to be outdone too, David Mark, the

‘The main breach here is the doctrine of internal democracy. If others were not allowed to test their popularity within the party, but were literally shouted down by a pleb of party bosses baying for the commander-in-chief, simply because he is president, what is the democracy in all of that?’

Senate president, also announced the PDP national legislative caucus’s adoption of the president, pleading “continuity”. The main breach here is the doctrine of internal democracy. If others were not allowed to test their popularity within the party, but were literally shouted down by a pleb of party bosses baying for the commander-in-chief, simply because he is president, what is the democracy in all of that? Yes, it could be argued that even advanced democracies, like the United States, often offer incumbent presidents a right of first denial, it is also fair to state that the circumstances are markedly different in Nigeria. To start with, the United States is a democracy of over 200 years, and its practices have evolved over the years. Indeed, as late as the 1968 elections, incumbent President Lyndon Johnson faced such a fierce contest that he decided to opt out of the race, yielding the nomination to Vice President Hubert Humphrey, who eventually lost to Republican candidate, Richard Nixon. In contrast, Nigeria is a new democracy, only in the 15th year of its fourth attempt at democracy. Given that its earlier attempts crashed, Nigeria needs every reason to imbibe best global practices to deepen its delicate democracy. Browbeating presidential aspirants, out of their legitimate rights, is certainly not one of those. Even more grievous and condemnable is the sheer impunity of it all. As at the time of the adoption, PDP had not really started the presidential nomination proc-

ess, aside from the charade of the Jonathan Trojan horse, named the Transformation Ambassadors of Nigeria (TAN). Electoral umpire, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), had not also given the green light for the primaries to start. In essence then, what the PDP did was shut the door on legitimate democratic aspirations, even before the contest formally begins. That is clear bad faith, executed in a most cavalier manner. Nigerian democracy can only be the worse for it. But beyond the shameful conduct of a ruling party, which appears proudly and blissfully ignorant of the imperative to set good examples, there is something worrisome about the patent impunity in the Nigerian political psyche. Lack of internal democracy is no PDP sole problem, though PDP has, more than any other party, tried a pretence at democratic practices, while really executing its penchant for imposition. At Jonathan’s turn, unfortunately, the pretence is off. Still, that does not make the opposition parties better, in their own claim to internal democracy. But for Nigerian democracy to survive, all the players, ruling party and opposition, must swear themselves to good democratic conduct. Even then, it is imperative that opposition parties make the latest PDP gaffe as a departure point — from democratic turpitude to democratic rectitude. Indeed, it is an ace these parties should latch on to, to make the PDP pay for its brazen antidemocratic conduct, if not outright outlawry, of staging illegal rallies and abusing the paraphernalia of state, just to arrive at a pre-determined partisan answer.

Impartiality VS impunity •Vital organs of state should not be used as political tools

NE of the pillars of any functional democracy is the neutrality of its police force. As the primary enforcers of law and order, their impartiality is crucial to the credibility and effectiveness of the noble institution they serve. This is why it is so disheartening that the Rivers State Command of the Nigeria Police would act in a clearly partisan manner in the long-running dispute over the position of chief judge of the state. Last week, about 30 heavily-armed policemen broke into the Rivers State High Court which had been under lock and key since June 12 when the state branch of the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) went on strike. The police undertook the action at the behest of Justice Daisy Okocha, who was appointed Administrative Judge of the state by the National Judicial Council (NJC) in May. The crisis began when the Rivers State Government appointed Justice Peter Agumagu as Acting Chief Judge of the state in August 2013, in defiance of the NJC, which recommended Justice Okocha for the position. Justice Agumagu’s appointment was successfully contested at the Federal High Court by several individuals acting on behalf of the Kengena Unity Forum. The Rivers State Government filed a suit in the same court, challenging the powers of the NJC to appoint a chief judge for the state. The court ruled that the state judicial service commission (JSC) rather than the NJC was best-suited to carry out this task, adding that seniority could not be the sole criterion in the selection of a vi-

able candidate. On the basis of this second ruling, Justice Agumagu was confirmed as the state’s chief judge. The response of the NJC was to suspend Justice Agumagu, who has taken the matter to court. Regardless of the relative merits of either side, it is encouraging that all parties initially sought to deal with the matter in an acceptable manner through recourse to courts of law. Ironically, it was the NJC which decided to undermine the judicial process in its efforts to achieve its aims when it made Justice Okocha administrative judge. By so doing, the council became a judge in its own case, ignored the ongoing legal process initiated by Justice Agumagu, and further confused an already-complicated conflict of opinion by introducing the hitherto-unknown appellation of “administrative judge.” The intervention of the Rivers State Police Command has taken the issue a step further. By breaking into locked court premises, tear-gassing and threatening bystanders, it has demonstrated a partisanship that is very likely to affect public perception of all of its actions in these and other matters henceforth. Under its new commissioner of police, Mr. Dan Bature, the command has clearly taken sides with Justice Okocha, even though her status is still in dispute. For a state which was still in the process of overcoming the depredations of the self-acclaimed “lion” of Nigeria, Assistant Inspector-General (AIG) of police, Mr. Mbu Joseph Mbu, the actions of Bature are a sad reminder of the constitutional

anomaly which undermines the position of state governors as chief security officers of their states. Because state police commissioners report directly to the Inspector-General of Police rather than state governors, it is easy for them to disrupt the stability of the states in which they work. However, this comes at the expense of their basic duties of upholding law and order. The sooner the Nigeria Police understand this, the better it will be for everyone. As for the NJC, it would do well to remember that it cannot afford another fiasco so soon after the self-inflicted wounds it caused itself in the matter of Justice Ayo Salami.

‘The intervention of the Rivers State Police Command has taken the issue a step further. By breaking into locked court premises, tear-gassing and threatening bystanders, it has demonstrated a partisanship that is very likely to affect public perception of all of its actions in these and other matters henceforth. Under its new commissioner of police, Mr. Dan Bature, the command has clearly taken sides with Justice Okocha, even though her status is still in dispute’

The madness in Ekiti

IR: I wish to comment on the carnival of brigandage that took place in Ekiti State High Court premises last week, where executive madness held sway undisturbed in a manner that is widely believed to be unprecedented in our annals. No doubt, the likes of late Hon. Justices Kayode Eso and Chukwudifu Oputa would have wept, seeing these strange events from their graves. Those events that eventually led to the closure of the High Court premises in Ado Ekiti are more disturbing when they happen in times that are touted as democratic. As dark as the military days were, no time was it recorded that a military governor dared to walk into a court premises to supervise or encourage assault on a court clerk let alone a judge of a superior court of record. When in February 1986, the Supreme Court propounded the concept of ‘executive lawlessness’ in that evergreen decision reported as Governor of Lagos State vs. Ojukwu, little did their Lordships know that the disobedience to a court order by the then military governor of Lagos State (which act the court described as executive lawlessness) would be a mere tip of the iceberg compared to what a civilian governor-elect would perpetuate 28 years later. One feature of this whole episode is that it epitomises the fallacy in persons holding executive powers of government tending to see themselves as superior to other arms of government. By the doctrine of separation of powers which is constitutionally enshrined in our democracy, each arm of government is independent of the other and no arm should see itself as superior to the other. In fact, all arms of government are equal partners in the business of government. Unfortunately this could not be said as true of our democracy given the show of executive thuggery in Ekiti last week. The governor –elect was reported to have thrown caution to the winds because the honourable judge was allegedly ‘rude’ to him. This once again highlights the dire need for financial autonomy for the third estate of the realm. In the light of the above, I wish to humbly call on all relevant authorities both within and outside the legal profession to ensure that this incident is not trivialised or swept under the carpet. The President and Commander-in –Chief, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Aloma Mariam Muhktar, National Judicial Council, Nigerian Bar Association and the Nigerian Police have to ensure that this case is diligently investigated and all persons (no matter how highly placed) found culpable in this brazen acts of bringing the judicial process into disrepute are appropriately sanctioned. It need be said that this is a litmus test for Dr. Jonathan, given the fact that the alleged perpetrators of these acts are linked to his party, the PDP. This is a golden opportunity for him to demonstrate his commitment to the rule of law. The danger in allowing the perpetrators of these acts to go unsanctioned is enormous for our nascent democracy, for the administration of justice, for the legal profession and for our national image in the comity of nations. Finally, the events of the last week gives a tip as to what Ekiti should prepare to experience in the next four years. Assault on a judicial officer and disruption of court proceedings are acts that are too dangerous to be understated as ‘lawlessness’. They portend madness. • Vincent Adodo, Esq. Abuja.

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THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2014

CARTOON & LETTERS

IR: THE life of a soldier can be troubling and stormy from time to time - like at this moment - when 12 combatants were court-martialed and sentenced to death for acts of rebellion against a superior officer and the state. It is swiftly becoming a case of officers versus non-commissioned officers as this entanglement rages on. As grave and paining as the acts of these soldiers were, justice must not only be served but it should be served well. My friend in the United States Army had this to say about the soldiers: “As a soldier you are not permitted to speak ill of your superior officer, and to attempt to kill any is the height of insubordination. It can’t be condoned. I understand that the Nigerian system is a mess but you can’t fight ill with ill.” A soldier is obsessive about safety of the life of his comrade and

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Don’t kill the army mutineers vice versa for he is aware that they all could die by a hairs breath if they are inconsiderate in battle and a true soldier does not rejoice when he comes home alive from war, he grieves over the loss of many who passed on and, painfully if such deaths were caused by the carelessness of commanding officers or by the generals that plan wars in the war room. Many have died elsewhere due to the procurements of bad helmets that bullets can penetrate, others as a result of tactless commands from

generals. Soldiers die for many reasons and many are unforgiveable reasons. But why would staff members of the Army react the way they did against a high ranking general officer commanding in public leading to shots being fired at him as reported? It goes beyond the ramblings of moaners. They were probably moved by the soldierly-spirit binding them: they saw their comrades die without reason and it could have been them; they saw the ‘order’ of their detached com-

mander in the field (their god in battle) sidestepped by a commanding officer in the war room. When generals by-pass the decision of unit commanders in the field who are taking the bullets, you get uproar to the types reported. That general broke the army strict code: lack of respect for critical decision reached by a chain of command, he second-guessed and overruled the decision of a younger officer who said it was risky to come back that night and - as it turned out, that officer was right because

Beatrice Jedy-Agba: Honour so deserved IR: There are some names worth mentioning just for the sake of it. There are also some names equally worth mentioning for their strength of character, disposition to issues and generally the well-being of others. Such persons are hard to find. When I flipped through the pages of the newspaper on September 18, I didn’t have an inkling of what to expect because I was already fed-up with the usual stories on either depressing issues or how many more territories the Boko Haram sect have captured. Somehow as I flipped through, I halted at a long list of names to be conferred with National Honours awards. My heart leapt for joy when my eyes struck a name – a name that is synonymous with hard work, diligence and humility. That name is Beatrice Jedy-Agba, Executive Secretary of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Traffic in Persons (NAPTIP). It is indeed an honour well-deserved. As a background, human trafficking is generally viewed as a means to improve socio-economic circumstances, making a significant part of

the population vulnerable. This was a huge challenge for Nigeria that required urgent and proactive steps, not until Mrs. Jedy-Agba was appointed Executive Secretary of NAPTIP in 2011. She has since then taken the lead in Nigeria’s effort to eradicate human trafficking, as well as ensure justice for trafficked persons. So her nomination didn’t come as a surprise. As a fact it was long overdue. She also has in her kitty countless laurels and awards in recognition of her invaluable services. One of such is the recently conferred 2014 trafficking in persons hero by the government of the United States of America, and by no other person that the United Secretary of State, John Kerry. During the award ceremony, she was described as “one of the 10 notable persons globally who despite resistance, opposition and threats to their lives protect victims, punish offenders and raise awareness of ongoing criminal practices in their countries and beyond.” The uncommon zeal and passion she exudes is unprecedented. Her

mien is that of a servant than a leader. For her what matters most is getting the job done and in truth, her disposition to work should serve as charge to other women both in govermnet and outside to put in their best in their endeavours. In all of this, it is worthy of mention the calibre of support she has received from her husband Prince Godwin Jedy-Agba. A consummate Nigerian, Beatrice Jedy-Agba has no tribal or regional leanings. She pursues the best and all-embracing policies, not what will be beneficial only to people from her state of origin. It is easy to see that her appointment was not because of her tribe either, but her qualifications. So far, she is unblemished by any allegation of corruption and she is held in high esteem among her colleagues, respected by her critics, with personal and professional ethics that transcend the Nigerian polity. Beatrice, is blessed with an incandescent beauty no doubt, but beneath the natural blessing is a mind galvanished with raw intelligence,

brilliance and political sagacity that have added an aura of mystique to her personality as an agent of positive change in our society. Her brand of leadership has bridged the grassroot expectations of governance and the sophistication and the nitty gritty of contemporary leadership. As the honour is conferred on her alongside others, she would be spurred to greater heights. This honour should also ignite in her another round of enthusiasm and energy that she is known for. I celebrate her and her family as well as those that were so honoured. Mrs Jedy-Agba deserves all the accolades that she can get in this very important phase of her life as she continues to render her services to humanity. Her story teaches two things; one is that no matter what, when you put the interest of others above yours, you will be so honoured. And two: when you are given an assignment, you put in your best and nothing but the best. • Phrank Shaibu, Abuja.

had they stayed, they might not have been bushwhacked by ‘the haramist’ leading to deaths of many soldiers – preventable losses - that the sentenced soldiers mutinied over. Yet again, they railed not for themselves but for the corps and dead staff members; also because the Nigerian Army does not have an appropriate channel for the rank and file to express their grievances against a general; and he put the lives of his men under danger even if the top brass says innocuously. If he truly considered their safety: why was there no Plan B as a backup to frustrate a repelling attack from the enemy since they must come back same day against another officer’s suggestion? The army needs to know that there are distresses within it members which lingers on staff welfare – lack of motivation- and for them to reexamine its main concerns and ensure that staffs are not only happy but the tool required for work are provided for them. The army must not only be quick to invoke its principles, despite the fact that it is necessary to reprove inappropriate behavior, it should go beyond that by treating all its members with dignity and respect. It must continually inspect members that - need to be discharged from the force and - should not leave it to chance as in this case - to embarrass its own - for it is evidently clear in the eyes of the mutineers, that the discharged general officer commanding is not a soldier of unimpeachable character who motivated his troops. Motivation is fundamental to a soldier’s life; they thrive in battle when they know you have brotherly love for them and die for the lack of it. The Army may become another sleeping giant: if the senior officers assume wrongly that they alone can run affairs without the supportive efforts of the down line? Those convicted soldiers do not deserve to die and must not die. They should be dishonorably discharged from the force without benefits. • Simon Abah Port Harcourt.

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2014

COMMENTS “

Igbo Irumale, one of D. O. CANNOT afford the arrogance of Fagunwa’s Yoruba classics — the saved,” quipped a character is a character as wise as he is in Kole Omotoso’s 1978 novel, To foolish. Borrow a Wandering Leaf, “that have a That, to be sure, would pass comprehensive insurance cover in for Nigerian leaders: the one Jesus” — or something to that effect. that vaults children and wards In this age of meretricious religiosity to foreign universities at the and zombie-like conformity, such slightest hint of “ASUU’s religious irreverence would stun even hassles” and its perennial the creatively gifted, with their penchant Olakunle strikes; the president that seeks for literary licence. But in that other age lordbeek1@gmail.com, 08054504169 (Sms only, please) Abimbola salvation in a “German ward”, of brutal questioning, mass anger, selfwhile, in local hospitals under reproach and alienation, it was nearhis charge, “health is a miracle standard literary fare. performed by death”. Still, this is no cross-age literary “Gongosu” boasts brutal criticism, between then and now. It is symbolism. The voice of only that the Kole Omotoso sarcasm children jeers at the folly of adult Nigerian rulers, who ironically could well be a fitting declaration by one of the two poetic evince stupid wisdom. Then an adult voice, warns of the albums, just released by Akeem Lasisi and the Songbirds, proud Burdened One (with corruption, election rigging, etc). But the practitioners in poetry, music and culture. Indeed, it is glorious Burdened is not even aware of his handicap! Then, the furious double whammy from the master performance poet, that voice of youth, brilliant and articulate, lampoons the order for Akeem Lasisi has become. being “anti-pen”; speaking of “seasons” (of perennial neglect), The first, Ori-Agbe (for Wole Soyinka), is a tribute to Wole speaking of “treasons” (of anti-youth plots); and ruing the Soyinka at 80. This work would appear made. For one, its brilliant signing a pact with the “poverty god”. Harsh subject, our own WS, has secured his place in the canon of just putdowns, indeed, that should simmer the Nigerian order! and equitable humanity; and of literary classics. For another If Gongosu is harshest of the Udeme tracks, “Iremoje”, a dirge Ori-Agbe is perched on Soyinka’s glorious epoch. Whenever for Ken Saro-Wiwa, with its brilliant use of Ijala, the Yoruba that landmark comes up for mention, Ori-Agbe is destined to hunters’ chant, is clearly the darkest. Saro-Wiwa never wanted bob up. anything spectacular, just basic justice. But that only fetched Udeme, the second work, cannot afford the “arrogance” of him brutal death by hanging. Of course, a nation that hangs its Ori-Agbe, with its bona fides! That would appear to explain conscience gallops to its doom! Though the poet somewhat the literal blazing of Udeme’s five tracks, a virtual blast across feigns intimidation bearing his grave message, “the dog must all poetic and literary emotions — “Udeme (Constituency preparing an ambush! True, Udeme’s sparkling eyes would not be denied its barking right,” even “if the head of the Project)”, the title track; “House of Memory (For Omoba Yemisi put impudent street lights to shame; and the poet decried the elephant is no load for the minor.” Shyllon)”, “Mo n bo (Free my Smiles)”, “Gongosu (Basket of digging of boreholes, since Udeme was the “well of life”. “House of Memory” is a toast to the art collector as private Chaff)” and the dark and heavy “Iremoje (For Ken Saro-Wiwa)”. Still, there is something mildly sinister about the poet’s custodian of institutional memory. It is a sweet ode to Yemisi “Udeme”, on the surface, is a love ditty; an ode to a rare diction. For starters, he would rather “wriggle” his way into Shyllon, a known art collector; and lover and sponsor of culture. beauty, served in a languid and extremely danceable form, the “Senate House” (to make Udeme his sole constituency “Mo n Bo”, [I’m coming] is a love ditty, also remarkable in its reminiscent of juju musician, Ebenezer Obey’s Miliki (easy life) project). That suggests stealth — and what is stealth in a ambivalence. Its music is trivia, what in Lagos Yoruba parlance genre; supported by a video that is simply a knock-out. democracy but manifest bad faith? Later, wriggle, gave way to would pass as “S’aje”. But the poetry is as deep and powerful In that video, Udeme, fair-skinned knock-them-dead beauty, “dig”; and finally to “rig” — and there, you have it! as any could be. Again, Akeem Lasisi at his ambivalent best! and epitome of grace, float-dances, like a butterfly; over the Besides, the poet’s plea to “import from near and order from Ori-Agbe (back to the biggest masquerade that always brings loving airs of Edaoto’s flirty, sensual and caressing voice. far”, until Udeme’s wardrobe turns a marketplace, conjures up the rear) may be assured of its place in the pantheon of Edaoto (Lasisi’s perennial collaborator), in his ultra-expressive the infamous Imelda Marcos, she of a thousand pairs of shoes. poems, just as its subject, Wole Soyinka, is assured of his place vocals, and armed with his guitar, is the perfect troubadour, in That the mass importation would be done at the expense of in the pantheon of humanity. But that takes nothing from the total devotion to his queen. Lasisi, the “politician”, sighted Oritamerin and Dugbe markets in Ibadan, clear metaphor for quality of the commemorative poetry, even if the work appears Udeme and caught the bug — at least in the video — and Nigerian commerce, suggests a wilful de-marketing of the to labour under the weight of the epoch. But it is fitting started speaking in tongues! A poetry-musical collabo never local economy, just to satisfy the trivia of the powers-that-be. testimony to the abiding Soyinka essence: justice, fairness, took off so dramatically! “Udeme” is wonderful music and great love poetry. But it equity. But don’t get carried away, for the poet could well be could well be great paradox: Nigerian rulers love their trivia; Lasisi, once again, further consolidates his brand: poetry as not their people. That is why, for their Udeme, they would de“Lasisi, once again, further consolidates his brand: powerful social conscience. But when will Akeem Lasisi, with market local commerce; and short-change the people. kindred spirits like Beautiful Nubia, and even Lagabaja, jam poetry as powerful social conscience. But when will If Udeme’s outside sweetness appeared to hide its gall, together? Akeem Lasisi, with kindred spirits like Beautiful “Gongosu” is unsparing in its ringing denunciation of Nigerian That would be the day, for the cultured Nigerian mind! Nubia, and even Lagabaja, jam together?” misrule. For starters, Gongosu Edidare, out of Ogboju Ode Ninu It’s good to be back, dear readers. Thank you for keeping faith.

epublican ipples

Double whammy from the master poet

AVING largely fallen into the toxic seduction of infallibility, the church Nigeria must consider itself lucky that it still retains the few in its rank, individuals with sufficient moral stature to confront the antics of the Ayo Oritsejafor-led Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN). Believe me; I believe the body of Christ owes a debt of gratitude to the revered Anthony Cardinal Olubunmi Okogie, for his interjection on the state of the nation and by extension, the church in Nigeria, as published by New Telegraph of Saturday September 27. Hear the revered Cardinal deliver his point-blank verdict: “CAN leadership today is zero. CAN has no leader”. His main charge was that body has fallen short of the expectations of its founding fathers with the current leadership reducing the body to an appendage of power. Related to this is that CAN has succumbed to the Nigerian malaise of corruption. By the way, I have heard countless scores of discerning Christians render the same verdict in their quiet corners, in addition to their silent prayers for true Christian leaders to emerge for a time like this! Nigeria obviously needs leaders who will resist the urge to prey on people’s psychology at difficult times; leaders with compassion for the poor and the weak – and who, for their transient comfort, will not shy from speaking truth to power! Given what one perceptive analyst aptly described as “politicisation of religion and the religionisation of politics”, trust the bare-knuckle censure by Okogie to rub on raw nerves and with it torrents of excoriation in the days and weeks ahead. After all, the grand old man has dared to pass judgment on a man perceived by many as incapable of wrong-doing. However, in the face of possible seduction to the doctrine of Balaam to which a section of the church in Nigeria is increasingly prone, what matters is that the uncomfortable truth has been delivered with such forthrightness and by an elder from ‘within’. For starters, it must be troubling for Christians to watch the body which purports to speak in their name being dragged into brazen partisanship by its leadership (just

‘Aside defending one of its own who has in fact admitted to a dalliance with the god of mammon, CAN has taken to the overdrive, seeking – not to stave off – but to appropriate the potentially embarrassing scandal involving its principal functionary’

Policy Sanya Oni sanyaoni@yahoo.co.uk 08051101841

CAN’s troubling/ troubled house imagine the self-promotion it begets). From merely gawking in horror at Pastor Oritsejafor’s reduction of the once vibrant body to a chaplaincy of both the PDP and the Jonathan administration, yours truly can say without any fear of contradiction that things have gotten to such a point that the body’s threadbare pretence to being a “Christian” organisation and the questionable claims of the current crop of its leadership as a force for the general good can no longer go unchallenged. By now, the story of how the personal jet of CAN President got entangled in cash smuggling mess is already well-known to be retold here. Trust Nigerians to procure controversies where none exists, there have since emerged several theories and interpretations there from – all depending on who is telling. Howbeit, the only thing still not in dispute is that $9.3 million cash was ferried to South Africa – using a jet belonging to the head of a body that purports to represent the Christians – and wait for it, to procure arms! I have since followed the attempt by CAN leadership to rationalise the scam. Ordinarily, if you ask me, I would say that CAN has no business in the mess. After all, Nigerians have not been told of CAN’s “residual interest” in the controversial jet neither is the body in any way known to be linked to the scandal. CAN unfortunately thinks it has more than ordinary watching interest which it must protect even when it risks alienating discerning Christians! Aside defending one of its own who has in fact admitted to a dalliance with the god of mammon, CAN has taken to the overdrive, seeking – not to stave off – but to appropriate the potentially embarrassing scandal involving its principal functionary. While that is galling enough, the body is at once saying that their principal not only could do no wrong, but

that it stands ready at all times to defend him no matter the circumstances and irrespective of what he does even in his private capacity! That is how bad things have become. No doubt, these are interesting times. If Nigerians saw the signs of the potential rot on the horizon, they probably paid little heed – hence the monstrosity on our hands! Although the problem did not begin last year, something happened to the body then that was not only significant but marked what appears to be its turning point. That was when the Catholic Church – arguably the most vibrant bloc in CAN - ‘temporarily’ withdrew its membership, citing among many reasons, “the polarizing statements of some Christian leaders; use of money in CAN elections; and several court cases involving state chapters of CAN” for its decision. Its spokesman, Rev. Fr. Dr. Cornelius Omonokhua would aver: “Catholic leaders have quietly brought these concerns to CAN leadership but that their advice was shunted aside as the CAN leadership repeatedly accused them of ‘intellectual arrogance.’ Let me be clear: I cannot claim to have understand the details of the power play that eventuated in the schism of the body. And I am not one to judge which party is right and wrong. What is important is that the Catholic bloc has since been proven right by the one-sided dalliance of CAN with a section of the political class. And while the result of that dalliance goes beyond the division in the house, the body’s standing as a moral force stands imperilled just as the diminution of its rationale as a force for good is guaranteed. Again, I am told that the opportunistic appropriation of organs of CAN for private political ends comes with rich rewards. That, in my view, hardly qualifies as a flattering legacy for the current team at CAN just as the striving to serve God and mammon at the same time is delusional. Didn’t the avatar of our faith teach that one cannot serve two masters? Have I taken liberty against God’s anointed? Let God be the judge. As for those eager to pronounce sacrilege or fatwa for venturing a comment, let them have the humility to accept that the doctrine of human infallibility has no place in Christendom.

‘As for those eager to pronounce sacrilege or fatwa for venturing a comment, let them have the humility to accept that the doctrine of human infallibility has no place in Christendom’

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2014

COMMENTS

ONSPIRACY theorists are likely to be sharpening their knives now in readiness for a big pound of flesh on the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate in the recently concluded gubernatorial election in the self acclaimed state of ‘fountain of knowledge’, Ekiti, Mr. Ayodele Fayose. For the records, Fayose is the governorelect of the state having won the election ‘convincingly’. The doubt over the scale and manner of his victory still lingers in the minds of those who hold the belief that the former of Ekiti state governor was ‘rigged’ into power. That is debatable. The event of the past week in Ekiti State that culminated in the assault on a judge of the state High Court and disruption of the sitting of the state’s election petition tribunal by hoodlums suspected to be supporters of Mr. Fayose has raised a serious question on the ability of the governor-elect to administer Ekiti in the next four years beginning from next month. And this is music to the ears of those who believe that Ekiti deserve a better person as governor; and they are sharpening their knives now. But before the taking of the pound of flesh, it might be necessary to look at the person, character and personality of the governorelect to understand those calling for his punishment in the mayhem he led his supporters to unleash on the Ekiti State judiciary and indeed the Nigerian judiciary as a whole. And understanding of where they are coming from could help the reader to support or condemn their position. I must confess that I am not an admirer of Ayodele Fayose, but this

‘We have a problem at hand in Ekiti even before the dawn of Fayose’s new era and all the good people of the state must come together to solve it. My reservation with Mr. Ayodele Fayose notwithstanding, he is the governor-elect and we (including out-going governor Fayemi) must all support him in the interest of Ekiti Kete and our democracy’

Ekiti: Just before dawn does not count as long as he was the choice of his people to be their next governor. Sometime in the course of his first tenure as governor of Ekiti State, elder statesman and a prominent indigene of the state Major General Adeyinka Adebayo (rtd) was having his birthday at his country home and in attendance were a host of opposition politicians, including a serving state governor. Adebayo’s son, Niyi, a member of the opposition was the immediate past governor of Ekiti state whom Fayose defeated in 2003. In a scene reminiscent of what took place last week at the premises of an Ado Ekiti High Court, supporters of Fayose, should I call them thugs (?) surrounded the venue of the party and made life unbearable for the birthday boy and his guests. As it is now, so it was then, as the ruling PDP both at the state and federal levels saw nothing wrong with the actions of Fayose and his thugs. I recall this column in the Daily Sun then when I asked the question; ‘who is this boy (?) in reference to the childish conduct of then Governor Fayose against those eminent Nigerians gathered in his domain then. That question is still relevant today as it was then. Why did I call him a boy? It is only a boy intoxicated by power that would attack, maroon and molest people old enough to be his father just because he had the power. His fall from power then could be traced to these types of happenings that characterized his aborted first tenure. What Ekiti people have found well in Fayose again I don’t know. If not a boy, why on earth would somebody on the verge of being sworn in as governor of his state lead thugs to invade the hallowed temple of justice called the judiciary just because he feared that the court’s decision could go against him. A matured man

HERE is a palpable sense of expectation in Anambra State. The surreal feeling can be felt in the renewed spring in the stride of Ndi Anambra everywhere you find them in the surface of the earth, irrespective of political affiliations. It is a sense of pride and fulfilment borne out of the people’s re-discovery and belief in their state’s growth and prospects. In a re-enactment of Charles Dickens’ Great Expectations, there is a new found ‘can do spirit’ enveloping the heartland of the Igbo race. In the street parlance of the yuppies, it is called ‘swag’. The evidence is there to behold by the discerning. How could anyone miss the evolving phenomenon – the gradual return of the exciting times across Anambra State? Though still muted, it literarily hits you once you cross the Niger Bridge approaching Upper Iweka axis. In fact, the feeling is gradually seeping across the state like kerosene flowing on a path paved with gravel. Indeed, a sense of the return of the good times is percolating the state and is set to burst to the surface in due course. To a certain degree, the current mood can be associated with that sense of expectation and new beginning in the United States with the advent of Barak Obama’s ‘Yes We can!’ One never really appreciates the impact of such feeling unless it is experienced. Ndi Anambra’s Yes We Can is borne out of the leadership style and inclusive approach to governance of the Governor, Chief Willie Obiano. Obiano’s administration clocked six months in office on September 17. Whilst some marvel at the giant strides of the administration and how it can be sustained, others say it has been an eventful period of rejuvenation and rekindling of the spirit of Anambra like never before. That essentially is the hallmark of the Willie effect! Undoubtedly the groundwork was laid after former Governor Peter Obi, having steered the ship of state to safe waters after eight years, called on Ndi Anambra to embrace Obiano’s governorship candidacy. Even then, some never gave the man a chance. But once he rolled out a well-thought out strategic Economic Blueprint hinged on “Anambra Wheels of Development” that is anchored on four Pillars – Agriculture, Trade and Commerce, Oil and Gas and Industrialisation – he ran a successful issues-based election campaign which permeated the domains of his opponents with the clamour “Willie will…work!” Subsequently as the election date drew closer, Obiano became known as ‘Hurricane Willie!’ And in response, Anambra voted en mass for “CONTINUITY” thereby endorsing a legacy of excellent service. Thus coming into office mid-March 2014, Governor Obiano hit the ground running, creating his governorship footprints during his first week in office without breaking stride to the chagrin of those who never gave him a chance, and the delight of others who believed in his credentials as a technocrat and manager of men and resources. No wonder in six months, he has moved Anambra forward placing the state on the cusp of greater things in the days and months ahead. Lest the Willie effect is perceived as mere hot air, it is impor-

with his peoples’ ‘mandate’ behind him would have used the judicial process to fight his case; if he had any instead of fighting and desecrating the judiciary. I am sure some among his supporters are sorely annoyed with his conduct; his denial of any part in the mayhem notwithstanding. But I am not surprised by Fayose and his conduct. Though trivial as this might seem to some people, my understanding of his character and resentment towards it were borne out of the palaver he was involved in during his first tenure, when his educational qualification was called into question. Fayose claimed to have attended The Polytechnic, Ibadan at a time yours truly also attended that great citadel of learning. As a prominent student on campus those days I could not recall any of the events Fayose claimed to have happened during his time to prove that he was a ‘Great Polyte’. I wasn’t the only one with this doubt as scores of my mates some of them later day friends of Fayose could not recall his days at The Polytechnic, Ibadan either. If this was the case, in my own estimation, then the man has no foundation on which to build his character; and nothing, as they say in law can stand on nothing. That’s my position on Fayose, nothing personal. I cannot recall how the matter of his educational qualification was eventually resolved but you can be rest assured that a solution would have been found to it to make him eligible to contest the last election, in spite of the case against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, (EFCC). Fayose case/conduct reminds me of Dr Omololu Olunloyo a former governor of old Oyo State in the second republic. After winning a controversial election against the in-

Willie Effect and Ndi Anambra By Emeka Ozumba tant that we take a peek into some of the triggers that may have created the virtual effect on Ndi Anambra. Before coming into office, Obiano crafted a vision that underscores his philosophy of a new direction for Anambra: To become the first choice investment destination and a hub for industrial and commercial activities. The vision envisages a quantum leap in the state’s economic status through the four pillars of development. However, on realising that achieving the vision and economic objectives is contingent on having a secure and stable state; Governor Obiano fast forwarded his security initiatives leading to the birth of “Operation Kpochapu.” Today, sanity that has long eluded Onitsha with long spells of security challenges has disappeared; the Upper Iweka axis is now secure and serene beckoning on all who cross the eastern gateway to see more. Obiano is obviously an advocate of John Quincy Adams who said, “If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.” As a path-way to inspire and re-awaken the latent spirit of enterprise and industry of Ndi Anambra, Governor Obiano decided to tap into the cultural base of the people to create a new symbol that would hold aloft the spirit of Anambra. Enter the new Coat of Arms, a Flag and an Anthem aptly titled, ‘The Spirit of Anambra’ which was unveiled on June 25, to great applause and appreciation of many on the commemoration of his first 100 days in office. Any wonder then why there has been a gradual upswing in self-esteem and belief in the state’s potentials. It is no longer news that Anambra State has one of the best internal road networks, thanks to Governor Obi’s stewardship. What is new however is that Obiano is expanding the road networks based on economic needs. Roads leading to agricultural and industrial belts of Anambra are receiving priority attention. In the same vein, Awka, the state capital, is getting due attention with legacy projects like the Three-ArmsZone and three fly-over bridges expected on completion to improve traffic flow and change the face of the capital city by the second quarter of 2015. Gradually, various institutions of governance are coming on stream. If the setting of the Awka Capital Development Authority (ACDA) is a statement of the intent by Obiano for the capital city, the Anambra Investment Promotion and Protection Agency (ANSIPPA) is an affirmation of his determination and drive to improve the state’s Internally Generated Revenue

cumbent governor then, late Chief Bola Ige, Olunloyo of the ruling (at the centre) National Party of Nigeria (NPN), before his swearingin, went round Ibadan especially the strongholds of Ige and his Unity Party of Nigeria, (UPN) threatening the people, the Ijebu and Ijesha in particular of a turbulent experience when he gets to power. His short three months reign was anything but peaceful. Is this what Ekiti should expect from Fayose? I wouldn’t have been this critical if Fayose was going in to a lesser public office. But the governor of a state! Haba, he needs to show good character and conduct to serve as an example of how to be a good public officer. Though he claimed in the run up to the election that had learnt his lessons, I doubt whether his leopard can ever change its spots. As Ekiti boils, Governor-elect Ayodele Fayose would have to exercise restraint in order not to escalate the crisis; out-going governor Kayode Fayemi, in these last few days of his tenure would have to rein in his own supporters and moderate his/their comments as well lest he goes down in history as Governor Samson of Ekiti State. By the way, why is it difficult for the PDP and the NPN before it to attract good people and credible leaders in Yoruba land that the majority of the people in the region could warm up to? Are there no good people in PDP who could challenge the established order in the South west without resort to thuggery and use of federal might? Was Fayose the best the party could produce in Ekiti? Yes the governor-elect was a populist and in this era of stomach infrastructure he ‘could’ swing the vote for his party. Why not present a more credible person, well respected (they are in abundance in Ekiti) to the electorate and ask Fayose (as a good party man, if he is) to canvass support for that person using his ‘aura’. Look at the characters the party is parading for next year’s gubernatorial election in the other Yoruba states. What about the man they presented in Osun. As long as these people continue to be the face of PDP in the region, the party can forget popular support here. We have a problem at hand in Ekiti even before the dawn of Fayose’s new era and all the good people of the state must come together to solve it. My reservation with Mr. Ayodele Fayose notwithstanding, he is the governor-elect and we (including out-going governor Fayemi) must all support him in the interest of Ekiti Kete and our democracy.

(IGR). It is also to boost the confidence and reassure many core-investors waiting on the wings with ANSIPPA’s armada of incentives that Anambra is ready for business. How can one forget the recent moves by Governor Obiano to revamp the state’s information dissemination machinery with the appointment of young dynamic managing directors for the Anambra Broadcasting Service (ABS) and the state newspaper the National Light, and the digitisation programmes and equipment of ABS? Some of these initiatives have tended to increase the perception of Obiano as a man of action and has unwittingly re-energised the waning worker confidence in the state public sector. You cannot successfully discuss the Willie effect on Ndi Anambra in six months without looking at his programme for the youths. In fact, one of Governor Obiano’s major headaches is on how to effectively engage this active segment of the populace. You do not come to him with a programme without clearly defining the youth component. Already, he is building a database of unengaged youths in all Local Government Areas, implementation of skills acquisition programmes is underway in the three senatorial districts, while the state’s mechanised agricultural programme is targeting a good number from the pool of youthful talents. Of course, a greater number of Obiano’s aides are youths with vibrant ideas. But most importantly, ideas expounded by the aides are complemented by the governor’s capacity to follow-up on delegated responsibility and ensure that deadlines are met. Many aides and contractors attest to his ability to recall aspects of assignments at critical stages thereby assuring performance. Perhaps one way to appreciate the Willie effect on Ndi Anambra in just six months is the fact that, whereas the continuity train is running on full throttle, the apprehension over the sustenance of the immediate past governor’s performance has disappeared without a trace. Governor Obiano is undoubtedly expanding the frontiers of excellence in Anambra by building superstructures on Obi’s structures. Though governance race is a marathon, Ndi Anambra is enthusiastic about the future judging from the open display of affection for the Obiano administration in comments and actions by the people. • Ozumba writes from Enugwu-Ukwu

‘Perhaps one way to appreciate the Willie effect on Ndi Anambra in just six months is the fact that, whereas the continuity train is running on full throttle, the apprehension over the sustenance of the immediate past governor’s performance has disappeared without a trace. Governor Obiano is undoubtedly expanding the frontiers of excellence in Anambra by building superstructures on Obi’s structures’

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2014

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2014

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The administration of justice can never thrive in an atmosphere where judicial officers are brazenly attacked and, or intimidated in the course of carrying out their lawful duties. The administration of justice can never bow to the whims and caprices of persons who believe that judges must yield to their wishes

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E-mail:- law@thenationonlineng.net

See page 27

Twice in four days, the Ekiti State High Court was attacked by thugs believed to be loyal to Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governor-elect Mr Ayo Fayose. A judge was beaten up in an unprecedented act of hooliganism in the temple of justice. His suit was torn. The Chief Judge’s court was invaded, his staff roughened up and his record book shredded. To forestall further attacks, all courts have been shut indefinitely. wLawyers and activists are calling for the trial of Fayose and the perpetrators. But Fayose has denied involvement in the incidents. Will the perpetrators go scot-free? All eyes are on the judiciary to preserve its dignity, reports JOSEPH JIBUEZE.

•Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Aloma Mukhtar

•Inspector-General of Police Suleiman Abba

•Fayose

Desecrating the temple of justice T

WICE in four days, judicial activities were disrupted by thugs in Ekiti State last week. The hoodlums broke into the court, ransacked offices, destroyed records and attacked staff and judges with the tacit support of the police and other security agents. There has been outrage over the incidents, described as desecration of the temple of justice. Will the thugs, believed to be loyal to the Ekiti Governor-elect, Mr Ayo Fayose, be brought to book? Some lawyers are calling for the prosecution of Fayose, who seemingly justified the attacks but denied involvement. He was in the court when the attacks were perpetrated. The lawyers urged the judiciary to unite and resist intimidation. An example, they said, must be made of the perpetrators. Failure to punish those responsible, they argued, will set a bad precedent, endanger the rule of law, erode the judiciary’s integrity and encourage political urchins to beat up judges at will to intimidate and silence them.

The first attack

INSIDE:

Last Monday was like a movie scene. Justice Isaac Ogunyemi of Court Six declared that he had jurisdiction to entertain the cases of the Citizens Popular Party (CPP) and Adeniyi Ajakaye and others challenging Fayose’s eligibility to contest the June 21 election, which he “won”. The hoodlums openly disagreed with the ruling. They sang songs to condemn the decision, and threatened to deal with the judge, who was said to have been protected by a special group of about six officers from the Riot Squad. However, panicky lawyers, litigants and officials ran out of the court room, screaming as scores of thugs hurled missiles at them. The police, apparently overwhelmed by the violence, looked helpless as windows were smashed and furniture broken. Those perceived to be obstructing the thugs’ aspirations were dragged on the courtroom’s

Mediation centre seeks to increase settlement rate -Page 27

floor and dealt with, using all sorts of objects. Judges, lawyers including Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs), journalists and other court officials ran for dear lives, hiding in offices, court registries, under chairs, tables, or anything that could serve as temporary hideouts, as the hoodlums ran amok.

The second attack The outrage over the first attack was yet to abate when, three days later, an army of thugs, unleashed violence on the court again. This time, Justice John Adeyeye was beaten up and •J his suit torn. Another judge was assaulted, while the office of the Chief Judge (CJ), Justice Ayodeji Daramola, was invaded. His workers were beaten up, his record book destroyed and proceedings disrupted. Lawyers, litigants and court clerks fled as the thugs smashed property. Fayose was at the Elections Petition Tribunal for hearing of the case by the All Progressives Congress (APC) against his “victory”. The thugs were said to have surged forward, entering the court premises after the policemen manning the gate allowed Fayose in. There was commotion. Several detachments of policemen in pick-up vans and an armoured personnel carrier (APC) took positions around the tribunal before it began sitting. At a point, tear gas was fired and people scampered away, but the thugs regrouped in defiance. Some were said to be jogging up and down the main road, singing songs and checking for supposed ‘enemies’ Reliving how the judge was assaulted, Ekiti State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice Mr. Wale Fapohunda said: “Justice Adeyeye, who was presiding over a case, accosted Fayose while moving around with his supporters (within the court premises) and advised him to desist from moving around and causing disruption of court proceedings.” According to him, that led to “the exchange of hot words between the duo, resulting in the manhandling of the judge.”

NBA president tasks SANs on ethics, professionalism -Page 28

Fapohunda said he was “informed that the irate youths attacked the judge on the order of the governor-elect.” The developments forced Justice Daramola to order the closure of all courts due to “the spate of attacks perpetrated by political thugs and their persistent presence on the Ado-Ekiti High Court premises in the past few days.” He said political thugs came in their hundreds, invaded the high court premises and assaulted the state’s third most senior judge, Justice Adeyeye “by beating him up and tearing his suit into shreds while the police officers on guard looked unconcerned and uninterested.”

‘Arrest, prosecute Fayose now’ The All Progressives Congress (APC), in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, said since Fayose does not yet enjoy immunity from arrest and prosecution, he should immediately be arrested over ”the dastardly and barbaric attack, which represents an attack on justice and on the rule of law, and the violence that has gripped the state.” The party said while Ekiti State Police Commissioner Taiwo Lakanu did well by rushing to the venue to help restore order after the judge had been beaten up, the role of the police in the two attacks was shameful. It said: “According to published reports, which are yet to be refuted, police personnel stood by while litigants, lawyers and other citizens were being mauled by rabid PDP thugs in the first attack, and again seemed powerless as Justice Adeyeye was being manhandled and his suit torn until the Police Commissioner arrived at the scene. If this is not an act of collusion, then it is a case of unacceptable gross incompetence for which those security agents must be brought to book.”

Fayose denies attacks

After Monday’s attack, Fayose, through his Chief Press •Continued on page 26

Legal icons bag national honours -Page 38

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2014

LAW COVER CONT’D •Continued from page 25

Secretary, Idowu Adelusi, said the perpetrators were angry Okada (commercial motorcycle) riders and others who voted for him. “His Excellency has no hand in what happened. He didn’t send them. They have been coming to the court and they have been seeing the trend. Their hope is Ayo Fayose and they felt their hope was about to be truncated. They are Okada riders and not hoodlums. They are angry that their mandate was about to be taken away.” Fayose denied that his supporters beat up Justice Adeyeye, describing the allegation as not only unfounded, but spurious. “I am not aware that a judge was beaten up. In fact, this is strange to me. This is reckless and strange to me. I visited the election petitions tribunal as a party to the case and I was the only one that was allowed passage by security men. To the best of my knowledge, the three judges handling the tribunal case sat. “How can I order the people to beat up a judge that has nothing to do with me? At what point was this judge beaten? Was he a member of the tribunal because I went to the tribunal and not the regular court? “But I want to point out that a situation whereby judges or judicial officers, who should be custodians of the law, got compromised with politicians, then anarchy will set in. The judge handling the suit against my qualification dropped the case because of tension and because he lacks the confidence to continue. “It would have been better for him to insist that he would try the case based on its merit. It is sad that most of our judges have compromised. If you have been defeated in all the 16 local government areas and you now want to come through the window, it won’t be like ice cream party to APC. I would not be too cheap like Segun Oni. I am not going to be cheap at all because I am elected by the people. “I don’t care about whatever they write about me because I have grown a thick skin. The strategy of APC will not work. Nobody, no matter how highly placed, will remove me cheaply,” he said. Fayose accused APC of a plot to truncate his inauguration on October 16 by trying to obtaining judgment through the backdoor. On Monday’s attack on the court, Fayose said: “It’s unfortunate. But don’t forget that the average man on the streets knows what they want and they are equally more enlightened than before, when somebody would just come, pay a judge somewhere for a backdoor judgment, to stall a process, to steal people’s mandate. We want trials done through due process. What is the hurry for this judge? What is his interest?” He alleged that the Chief Judge was an interested party in the matter. “We have been told that he wants to assign the matter to himself. He is a clear member of the E-11 – the petitioners. We want a judge, who is ready to carry out his assignment as a judge; who is ready to respect the Constitution of Nigeria, to try matters by being fair to all concerned and be accountable to Nigerians,” he said.

Is judiciary under threat? At the height of the political crises in Rivers State, the courts came under attack. The High Court in Okehi, Etche Local Government, was torched by youths suspected to be thugs on January 6. The target of the arson was the office of a certain judge. Earlier, the high court in Ahoada was hit with an improvised explosive device. The bombing happened shortly before hearing in a case seeking to restrain self acclaimed House of Assembly Speaker Evans Bipi was due to begin before Justice Charles Wali. There was also a clash when armed policemen forcefully opened Rivers High Court’s main gate, which shut because of a strike by workers. A welder cut the gate’s iron bars. Some youths, who gathered at the gate, protested the policemen’s bid to escort the court’s most senior judge, Justice Daisy Okocha, and some others into the premises. Tear gas was fired at passers-by; journalists, motorists and those around the court fled. With last week’s attacks in Ekiti, some wonder whether the courts are still the common man’s last hope.

Outrage trail attacks The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs), human rights groups and a retired judge condemned the attacks and called for the perpetrators’ prosecution to prevent a recurrence. NBA, in a statement by its President Augustine Alegeh (SAN), said: “Reports from our members at Ado Ekiti indicate that po-

•Fagbohungbe

•Ali

•Igbokwe

•Nwobike

Desecrating the temple of justice licemen and other security agents present at the High Court Complex looked the other way while the hoodlums had a field day in perpetuating wanton criminal acts of violence and damage to property. “We call on the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies in Ekiti State to perform their constitutional duty of providing security for the citizens of Nigeria. This unfortunate development portends grave danger to the lives of our judges in Ekiti State. “There is, therefore, an urgent need to protect our judges and judiciary staff from these hoodlums whom we believe must be acting on instructions from some highly placed persons in Ekiti State to unleash mayhem on judicial officers and infrastructure. “We condemn in very strong terms these detestable acts of brigandage intended to intimidate and infuse fear into the minds of judicial officers. Those behind these criminal acts of violence have desecrated the courts, which are our temples of justice. “The administration of justice can never thrive in an atmosphere where judicial officers are brazenly attacked and, or intimidated in the course of carrying out their lawful duties. The administration of justice can never bow to the whims and caprices of persons who believe that judges must yield to their wishes. “The NBA is sending a high powered fact finding team to Ekiti to investigate the facts surrounding this matter. Any person(s), no matter how highly placed, found involved in this show of shame and desecration of our courts shall surely face the full force of the law as NBA will ensure prosecution of any such person(s). “We will not allow persons who do not mean well for our society take steps capable of plunging our country into anarchy.” The Ekiti branch of NBA, through its chairman, Joseph Adewumi, said there could be a serious constitutional crisis if by act of commission or omission an atmosphere of anarchy is encouraged. “If the current assault on the judges of the Ekiti State judiciary is allowed to continue, they would have lost the necessary independence that should be the bedrock of the performance of their constitutional duties,” he said. A retired judge of the state, Justice Demola Bakre, said with thugs taking over the court, it would be difficult, if not impossible, for judges to carry out their duty freely without fear of coming to harm. A human rights group, Access to Justice (AJ),

condemned what it called unbridled affront on Justice Adeyeye. “The attack is shameful, vile, barbaric and grossly contemptuous of the person of Justice Adeyeye and the authority he exercises as a Judge. It is a brutal attack on the administration of justice and the integrity of the justice system in Nigeria. It undermines the independence of the Judiciary and the duty of judges to decide disputes without fear or molestation. “This attack on judges and the administration of justice must be repressed and repelled with all the power and authority of the state. Those responsible must be brought to book so that this impunity is not allowed to flourish,” the group said in a statement by Chinelo Chinweze.

Lawyers seek justice Some Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SAN), who condemned the attacks, include Chief Felix Fagbohungbe; Malam Yusuf Ali; a former Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS) Director-General, Prof Epiphany Azinge; Chief Emeka Ngige; Deacon Paul Ananaba; Jibrin Okutepa; Femi Falana; Mr Mike Igbokwe and Dr Joseph Nwobike. Others are Mr Ike Ofuokwu; AJ’s Executive Director, Mr Joseph Otteh; Dr. Utman Abdulazeez; Richard Chukwuocha and Charles Titiloye urged the judiciary not to treat the show of aggression with kids’ gloves. Fagbohungbe said: “It’s an embarrassment to the judiciary. It’s an embarrassment to the society. The character (of the thugs’ leader) is beyond description. It’s awful. It’s terrible. I think he should not be allowed to get away with this. “The Judiciary and lawyers must come together to let him know that he cannot get away with it, that the hands of the law is so long that it can catch up with anybody. It should not be allowed at all. I’m quite concerned and worried.” Ngige said the attack was a consequence of voting for the wrong candidate in the governorship election. “It is a clear manifestation of a return of anarchy to Ekiti State. It’s unfortunate that this is what Ekiti people bargained for by voting against Dr Kayode Fayemi. The only unfortunate aspect of it is that the innocent people will also suffer along with those who voted for ‘stomach infrastructure’,” he said. Ananaba described the attacks as sacrilegious, saying: “This is a situation we must

all unanimous speak against. Even those who think that they are benefiting from the hooliganism today will suffer its ripple effects in the long run. The act is sacrilegious and it must be treated as such. The perpetrators must be brought to book.” Okutepa said the attacks were a threat to the rule of law. “If the rule of the jungle is now taking over the rule of law, then might will soon become right and the peace and tranquillity currently being threatened, would have been completely wiped out,” he said. Falana said the mayhem unleashed on the court by a gang of hired hoodlums confirmed that “Ekiti people have fully returned to the wilderness.” “So far, those who perpetrated the barbaric attack and their sponsors have their admitted ignoble role through public statements issued by them. The Ekiti State governorelect, Mr. Ayo Fayose has justified the shameful attack on the rule of law in Ekiti State by saying that his election cannot be challenged in court. “This is a reminder of the Idi Amin era in Uganda when judges were killed while discharging judicial functions. Mr. Fayose and his thugs should not be allowed to kill judges and lawyers before calling him to order. ”Since the Ekiti State police command is completely compromised, the Acting Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Suleiman Abbah is called upon to ensure that all the assailants are arrested and prosecuted without any delay. Any attempt to cover up the brazen contempt of court should be resisted by the Attorney-General of Ekiti State, Mr. Wale Fapounda, who should take decisive measures to bring the criminals to book,” Falana said. Azinge said the attacks were “thuggery taken too far” and “totally unacceptable to a democratic setting”. “To that extent it stands to be condemned. The police must ensure that the courtrooms are well protected, not just when the court is sitting, but all round the clock to make sure that not just the personnel involved, but all documents and property of the court are continuously protected. If we don’t do that, then it means that we’re bidding farewell to the judiciary and to an extent our constitutional democracy in this country,” Azinge said. Ali described the attack as “an abomination that should not be encouraged,” while Igbokwe called it “a desecration of the highest order of the temple of justice! Indiscipline! Contempt of court!” “Who did they want to intimidate? The culprits should be fished out, tried and if found guilty, punished accordingly so as to deter similar occurrences in the future. Security at the courts/tribunals should henceforth be beefed up and their members protected,” he said. Nwobike said he could not imagine “this extent of institutional failure in Ekiti”, while calling on the Acting Inspector-General of Police and the Director-General of the State Security Services “to investigate and punish all those responsible for the ugly development.” Ofuokwu described the incident as judicial terrorism, adding that the perpetrators must be severely punished to serve as a lesson to others. “The perpetrators of this act of judicial terrorism and their sponsors no matter how highly placed they are must be investigated, tried and severely punished if found guilty. Failure to do this would breed anarchy which we will have to live with as a nation for a very long time,” Ofuokwu said. Otteh said any attempt to interfere in the judicial process through such “crude, deplorable, and treacherous” means “must be repelled and rebuffed with all the power of the state” to prevent a very dangerous precedent. Abdulazeez said: “This is the worst we should be willing to accept as a nation. Let’s watch and see how this Federal Government will treat this great act of desecration of the hallowed temple of justice. We are doomed in this country. God help us.” Chukwuocha described the attacks as “the height of contempt in the face of the court,” adding perpetrators of the mayhem “should be arrested and prosecuted, and if found guilty, should be prosecuted according to the law.” Titiloye urged the IGP to arrest Fayose. “We must remind the IGP that nobody is above the law. Fayose has no immunity from arrest and prosecution, having not taken oath of office as the governor of the state. His utterances are clear acts depicting his complicity in the criminal attack on the High Court. He must be brought to book in the interest of protection of institution of justice in Nigeria and protection of law and order in Ekiti State,” he said.

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2014

LAW & SOCEITY

Mediation centre seeks to increase settlement rate As part of activities marking its 15th anniversary, the Citizens’ mediation Centre (CMC), Lagos has launched a new strategic plan for another four years. ADEBISI ONANUGA reports.

•Mrs. Oworu (right). Mr. Pedro (left); Mrs. Williams and George Oguntade (rtd).

HE Citizens’ Mediation Centre (CMC), an agency of the Lagos State Ministry of Justice, has marked its 15th anniversary. The occasion, tagged a stakeholders’ conference, held at the Adeyemo Bero hall of the State Secretariat, Alausa, Ikeja. It coincided with the launching of a new four-year (20142018) strategic plan of the agency. The agency was inaugurated in 1999 by former governor Bola Tinubu. It took off as a unit from one room in the Directorate I of the Ministry of Justice. Since then, it has grown with the passing of Lagos State Citizens’ Mediation Centre Law 2003 and become a model for Alternate Dispute Resolution (ADR) for other states. Today, the centre boasts of offices in 14 locations in the state – Agege, Amukoko, Bariga, Ikotun, Ikorodu, Badagry, Ibeju Lekki, Ikotun, Iba, Ojo, Oshodi, Alimosho, Yaba and Lagos Island. For the CMC, its anniversary provided it with an opportunity to showcase its achievements. A beneficiary, the Olojo of Ojo Kingdom, Oba Adeniyi Rufai, told the audience that about two years ago, he dragged some of his tenants to the agency for failing to pay their rents. He said the tenants, after the mediatory role played by the CMC, not only agreed to pay but that they left the place as his friends. Oba Rufai, who said the relationship between him and the tenants, had remained cordial since then, said the staff of the centre were wonderful as they saved him the huge cost he would have incurred as professional fees for lawyers, if the matter had been taken to court. In a documentary on the achievements of the centre, Justice Latifat A. F. Oluyemi, recalled a case that had lasted 15 years in the court without a resolution. She said when herself and her team took over the matter, they resolved it in three months. She said the beauty of the ADR was that the meetings were held behind doors and ensured confidentiality. Justice Sodoten Sosi Ogunsanya said cases go through the ADR process in Lagos and that mediation is held in a peaceful environment. She said mediation provides parties the opportunity of stating their minds and getting their disputes resolved. A former Attorney-General of the state, Dapo Sasore, attested to the efficacy of the system and had several land, tenant and property disputes resolved through mediation. Also testifying to the gains of the centre, Governor Babatunde Fashola (SAN), in a keynote address, disclosed that the centre recovered N1.5 billion on behalf of Lagosians, who sought the assistance of the agency, to recover their entitlements between January 2008 and August, this year. The governor, who was represented by the Commissioner for Commerce, Mrs. Olusola Oworu, said this year alone, the centre settled 14,297 cases. He noted that but for the CMC, the cases would have ended up in court, thereby adding to the already congested dockets of the judges and contributing to justice delay. He said the number of cases handled by the

•Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Riskat Akiode who represented Deputy Governor, Mrs. Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire (right), Mrs. Abosede Ayodele (left) and Olori Efunbo Gbadebo.

•From left: Mrs. Odusanya; Access to Justice Manager, Mr. Danladi Plang and Mr. Ben Mellor of the Department of International Development (DFID).

CMC also represented the number of citizens, who, for reasons of poverty, ignorance or fear, would not have had access to justice despite that they have pecuniary claims and other enforceable legal rights. Fashola said his administration would remain committed to ensuring that no citizen of the state is deprived of justice on account of financial status or geographical location. He said this decision was “anchored on the principle that injustice to one Lagosian that goes without redress is injustice to all Lagosians”. He said the principle of justice for all Lagosians would be achieved through the CMC, Office of the Public Defender (OPD) and other related agencies. The governor commended the director of the CMC and her team, as well as her predecessors and other support staff on how they worked over the years, stressing: “Their constant commitment and sense of responsibility are highly commendable.” He expressed conviction that the stakeholders’ meeting would enable the centre “steps up to the next level and attain its

full potential”. The Attorney-General, Ade Ipaye, who was represented by the Solicitor-General, Lawal Pedro(SAN), in a welcome address, said mediation has helped resolve many cases that would have ended up in courts, thereby taking a very long time to resolve. Pedro said the people of the state embraced mediation because of its benefits of ensuring confidentiality, particularly in family matters. Pedro said the system helps to create a winwin situation for both the aggrieved and the aggressor as they would leave the place as friends as against adversaries. The Director of CMC, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Odusanya, said the achievements of the centre within the 15 years of its existence attested to the fact that the aim of the government to ensure that the people of the state have access to justice was being achieved. Mrs Odusanya explained that the strategic plan sets out the modalities for training and re-training of the administrators to ensure that they are equipped to meet international standard, among other plans. The CMC director said the new strategic plan has three

‘The centre recovered N1.5 billion on behalf of Lagosians, who sought the assistance of the agency, to recover their entitlements between January 2008 and August, this year... But for the CMC, the cases would have ended up in court, thereby adding to the already congested dockets of the judges and contributing to justice delay’

major goals. According to her, the first goal is to become a household name in Lagos, recognised for speedy and free dispute resolution by 2018. Under this goal, she said five new centres would be created, yearly, in the state by 2018 while there would be increased sensitisation to reach all areas covered by the unit. Mrs Odusanya said the plan, under the second goal, is to increase settlement rate and level of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) compliance by 25 per cent by 2018. Under this goal, she said they would develop standards for effective mediation, train 80 per cent of mediators and support staff by 2015. The director said the plan was to achieve 90 per cent user satisfaction of mediation as a viable means of dispute resolution by 2018. This, she said, was being done to ensure that CMC units meet minimum agreed standards of facilities for user satisfaction, develop and implement an operational public complaints system by 2017 and to introduce staggered mediation appointment system in all units in order to reduce waiting time of users by about 80 per cent among others. The Head of Service, Mrs. Seyi Williams, attested that the people of Lagos have tested mediation and there was a great demand for the system to resolve their disputes. She said there was the need for sensitisation of the public on the benefits of mediation for the people who cannot afford the cost of litigation in court. She said a lot of people were still being maltreated but that they do not know where to get redress.

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2014

LAW & SOCIETY BEHOLD THE NEW SENIOR ADVOCATES OF NIGERIA (SANs)

•From left: Ahamefula Ikechukwu Ejelam (SAN), Prof. Ernest Maduabuchi Ojukwu (SAN) and Olusola Idowu (SAN).

•From left: Olatunde Oluranti Adejuyigbe (SAN); Tawo Eja Tawo (SAN) and Chike George Onyemenam (SAN)

•Silvernus Ogwemoh (SAN) (left) and Prof. Joash Amupitan (SAN).

•From left: Kelvin Chukwudi Nwufo (SAN), Teslim Busari (SAN) and Dr Adewale Olawoyin (SAN).

•From left: Dr Joshua Olukayode Olatoke (SAN), Dr Amuda-Kannike Abiodun (SAN) and Oluwakemi Mufutau Balogun (SAN).

•Afolabi Hakeem Olatunde (SAN) (left) and Gerald Godwin Ezeuko (SAN). PHOTOS: JOHN AUSTIN UNACHUKWU

NBA president tasks SANs on ethics, professionalism

AWYERS have been urged to maintain high standards. Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) PresidentMr. Augustine Alegeh (SAN) made the call at a dinner he organised for the 17 new Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja. The SANs were sworn in earlier on that day at the Supreme Court Chambers by the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Mariam Aloma Mukhtar. All the new SANs attended the swearing-in and were presented with the stamp and seal of their offices by Alegeh. Dr Fabian Ajogwu (SAN) told the SANs about their duties and obligations, saying they owe a duty first to the association and their colleagues, their clientele and the nation. He emphasised the urgent need for decorum and integrity, particularly in their practice. Advising the lawyers on the need to be professional and exemplary, the President, Court of Appeal,

By John Austin Unachukwu

Justice Zainab Bukachuwa said they must always demontrate high standards of ethics. “As Ministers in the temple of Justice, lawyers should always demonstrate high ethical standards, they should uphold the principles of the rule of law and respect for the judiciary.’’ Similarly, NBA’s former President, Chief Okpoko (SAN), emphasised that the new silks have a role to play in the upliftment of the legal profession and the family. He called on the new SANs not to see their elevation as opportunity to make money; but rather, they should see it as an opportunity to serve humanity and contribute to nation building. This dinner, which was described as novel, was attended by prominent Bar leaders, including the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Mohammed Bello Adoke (SAN); his predecessor, Chief

• Alegeh (SAN) his wife Ferishat. Michael Kaase Andoakaa (SAN), former NBA presidents, including, Chief T. J. N. Okpoko (SAN), OCJ Okocha (SAN), Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), Chief Bayo Ojo (SAN), Lanke Odogiyan (SAN).

Chief Niyi Akintola (SAN) and Dele Adesina, who had earlier contested the Presidency of the NBA with Alegeh (SAN), were also present. Former General Secretaries of the association, who attended the

dinner, include: Chief Philip Umeh, Dele Adesina (SAN), Lawal Rabana (SAN), Ibrahim Eddy Mark, Emeka JP Obegolu and the incumbent General Secretary, Mazi Afam Osuigwe and all national officers of the association.

Newspaper of the Year

AN 8-PAGE PULLOUT ON NORTHERN STATES

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2014

PAGE 29

•Jos residents displaying the flag of peace during the peace meeting

Hoisting peace flag on the Plateau

FTER years of being at one another’s throats, residents of Jos, the Plateau State capital, have finally decided to embrace peace. They decided to use this year’s World Peace Day to demonstrate their love for peace because, according to them, they desired mutual love and peaceful co-existence which have eluded them for about a decade. So, when the people eventually got the peace they desired, they rolled out the drums to celebrate it and vowed to maintain it as long as there is life. The people demonstrated the new found love and peace in Jos last week when the whole world marked a global day of peace. The day was set aside by the United Nations (UN) to remind mankind of the need for peace, in order ensure progress, growth and development. The concept of marking a global day of peace was initiated after the First World War. Since then, Septem-

‘How to boost Taraba’s tourism sector’ •PAGE 30

‘Plateau State citizens have every reason to celebrate the prevailing peace as the world marks another peace day…There has been no conflict among residents of Jos since 2011 compared to the crisis situation in the city before then. This year’s theme for the World Peace Day was “People’s Right to Peace” which had already reflected the collective resolve by Plateau citizens to live in peace with one another’ From Yusufu Aminu Idegu, Jos

ber 21of every year has been set aside to remind citizens of the world that peace is necessary for economic and social well-being of mankind. No other section of the world appreciated the international peace day anniversary than people of Plateau State. Search for Common Ground (SFCG), the European Union (EU)-

sponsored non-governmental organisation (NGO), organised the colourful ceremony for the hoisting of the flag to mark this year’s world peace day in the state. Residents of Jos city had experienced seemingly intractable bloodbath since 1994 over a minor political disagreement over leadership of Jos North Local Government Area. That insignificant disagreement led to the first ma-

Joy as Jigawa airport takes its maiden flight to Mecca •PAGE 31

jor violent crisis in the city. That initial conflict was localised in Jos Central. However, that initial conflict was grossly mismanaged, as it resurfaced in a religious colouration, bringing the Christians and Muslims in the city to a boxing ring. As at 2012, it was impossible to resolve the conflict since it had become a religious one. The violent conflict

spread beyond Jos city to other local government areas such as Jos South, Jos East and Bassa local governments. By 2004, the violence had spread to Plateau Southern zone. That of Yelwa, in Shendam Local Government Area was so explosive that the Federal Government had to impose six-month state of emergency on the entire state. During the state of emergency, the military enforced peace on the people but they failed to reconcile the warring factions. Though the government led by Gen. Chris Ali (rtd), held a peace summit in the state, that was not enough to reconcile the people. So, as soon as the state of emergency was lifted, the warring factions went back to the trenches. The bloodbath continued on a small scale throughout 2005, 2006 and 2007. But in 2008, an election into the 17

Abuja’s mountainous garbage dumps •PAGE 33

•Continued on page 30

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2014

THE NORTH REPORT

•The youth hoisting the peace flag on the Dogon Dutse mountain

•Continued from page 29 local government areas led to the eruption of one of the worst battles in the history of the state. The voting in Jos North became controversial and what followed was bloody. The entire Plateau North Senatorial zone was engaged in prolonged violent clashes, particularly between Muslims and Christians in the areas. The carnage was only suspended when the Federal Government drafted some battalions of military troops to the state. The military were able to suppress the war. In 2010, the violence erupted again between Christians and Muslims of Jos North, particularly in Nassarawa Gwong. That conflict started on a Sunday, but it lasted for a full week, involving not less than 10 local government areas. That was when the Federal Government had to establish a Special Task Force in the state to help halt the loss of lives. The violence was only suspended for a moment when the army took over in January, 2010. When the Special Task Force (STF) on Jos crisis code named Operation Safe Haven succeeded in halting the violence in the city centre, the warring factions took their battle to the Satellite and remote villages of the state. That was when the state recorded its first guerrilla attack with the killing of over 500 men, women and children in Dogo Nahawa village of Jos South Local Government Area in a pre-dawn attack. At that stage, it all appeared no form of reconciliation will work on the Plateau because the level of casu-

•Aerial view of Jos City

Hoisting peace flag on the Plateau

alties was increasing. But that was then. Today, the onetime violent state is now at peace with itself. In fact, the prevailing peace appeared better than the one that was obtainable before the conflicts. Having fought among themselves for over 10 years, they came back craving for peace at all costs. While the battle lasted, the Plateau State Government maintained its stand that it is only dialogue that could bring about peace among the people. The government established a peacebuilding and conflict resolution directorate, which is directly under the office of Governor Jonah David Jang. He appointed Mr. Timothy Baba Parlong as a Special Adviser on Peace-building and Conflict Resolution, to coordinate the process of evolving peace. That was the stage at which the European Union (EU) came in to help the state and its people reconcile themselves and restore peace. Having signed an agreement with the state government, EU inaugurated three organisations to be their foot soldiers in the peace-building project. Some of the three organisations are Search for Common Ground (SFCG), Community Action for Popular Participation (CAPP) as well as APURIMAC ONLUS. The three organisations are to facilitate an 18month peace programme. Search for Common Ground (SFCG) immediately established a Peace Architecture Dialogue Forum to provide a common ground for citizens to come together and talk with one another.

‘The good news here is that the same people who were fighting one another years ago, have resolved to drop their arsenals and embrace one another. The same people are saying ‘No victor, No vanquished’ in the battle. The resolve by Plateau citizens to hoist a flag of peace on this mountain is therefore a welcome development’ After the 9th dialogue series, the people agreed to become one in love. They had set in motion the first Plateau Peace Forum which will involve all ethnic groups resident in the state. But the people decided to take their peace process further by using the opportunity of the World Peace Day last week to hoist a flag of peace. Coordinated by SFCG, the residents of Jos city in particular said the flag of peace was significant to show the whole world that the era of violence was over. In a brief ceremony preceding the hoisting of the Jos Peace Flag held at Dogon Dutse Jos, Hajiya Lantana Abdullahi, Programme Manager of Search for Common Ground (SFCG) said: “Plateau State citizens have every reason to celebrate the prevailing peace as the world marks another peace day. “There has been no conflict among residents of Jos since 2011 compared to

the crisis situation in the city before then. This year’s theme for the World Peace Day was “People’s Right to Peace” which had already reflected the collective resolve by Plateau citizens to live in peace with one another. “The resolve of the people to hoist the flag of peace is to tell the whole world that the days of violence are over. Special Adviser to Governor Jonah Jang on Peace-building and Conflict Resolution, Mr. Parlong said: “All citizens of Plateau State have resolved to become peace agents because peace is the only thing we all have in common. The crisis we went through before 2011 has made Plateau citizens to value peace more than any other person in the whole world. “There was a time the entire state was polarised along religious divide. Muslims could not get to areas dominated by Christians and Christians could not

go to areas dominated by Muslims. There was a time we were forced indoor for a whole week due to a 24-hour curfew. We almost died of hunger due to the conflict we all caused for ourselves. “The good news here is that the same people who were fighting one another years ago, have resolved to drop their arsenals and embrace one another. The same people are saying ‘No victor, No vanquished’ in the battle. The resolve by Plateau citizens to hoist a flag of peace on this mountain is therefore a welcome development. “The state government is full of appreciation for youths to have renounced violence and become peace ambassadors.” Also speaking, a group of youths from Jos South Local Government Area under the aegis of “Youths for Peace” made a declaration on the occasion thus: “We the youth of Plateau State have resolved to fight no more. We are out to break the jinx of ‘no go areas’ within the territory of Plateau State. We are out to clear all religious divide among citizens of the state. “Whoever is not interested in peace should go far away from the state because this prevailing peace we are enjoying must be permanent. Any youth working against the peace would be declared an enemy of the state. “Now that we are preparing for 2015 general elections, we are appealing to politicians to stop giving youths money to cause violence. We are also appealing to the youth to resist the influence of politicians who want to use them to fo-

‘How to boost Taraba’s tourism sector’ Dr. Yakubu Tor-Agbidye is Special Adviser on Culture and Tourism in Taraba State. In this interview with FANEN IHYONGO, he reveals that Taraba has much tourism potential that could boost its economy and that of the country. He advises that infrastructure be put in place for the industry to flourish, among other issues. Excerpts:

ARABA has witnessed some quiet periods in tourism activities in recent times. What could be responsible for the situation? It is not quite true that tourism activities in Taraba State have been dull. There are circumstances that have forced activities in the culture and tourism sector to be seemingly quiet. We have had series of disturbances in the state. We have been promoting culture and tourism in Taraba for quite a long time, by organising festivals in which we invite people across the region to participate. Last year, we celebrated the World Cultural Day in Gembu, Sardauna Local Government Area. We were planning very seriously to also launch the Nwonyo Fishing Festival

when the ethno-religious crisis in Southern Taraba resurfaced. The crisis seems to have caused tourism activities not to be vibrant. You cannot promote tourism when there is insecurity in the area. So, the violence in the state has slowed down tourism activities, but it is just a matter of time; it is temporary. When the crisis is over, tourism activities will resume in full swing. I have a lot of plans on ground, which I believe shall take the state to an enviable pedestal when peace returns. Appraising what Taraba has invested so far in the culture and tourism sector, will you confidently say it has reaped the benefits of its investments? When I assumed duty as Adviser

on Culture and Tourism three years ago, I noticed that the state boasted of much tourist attractions that could be utilised to promote tourism nationally and internationally. I realised that we have a lot of potential (I mean just potential) but the infrastructure was not developed. To fix the infrastructure, we need huge sums of money, which the state does not have at the moment. So, the potential are there, but untapped. I have divided the state into three zones –A, B and C–in terms of tourism. My desire is to ensure that, at least, we develop an attractive cultural/tourist centre in each of the zones. But looking at the amount of resources needed to build these infrastructure to a point of attracting national and international tourism,

•A market settlement in Bang on Taraba Mountains

it wouldn’t be that easy because we don’t have that kind of resources. We can just package our tourism very well and sell it. We cannot ask

tourists to come and build the infrastructure for us. The state has to fix the infrastructure to attract tourists to invest and promote our tourism.

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2014

THE NORTH REPORT

ment trouble. That is one of the ways to make this peace permanent.” Youths also declared: “Now that we have resolved to be in peace with one another, we appeal to the Federal Government to disband the military task force it constituted as a result of the Jos crisis. “Most times, the soldiers cause problems for us. The youth have already constituted themselves into vigilance groups and we are protecting the nook and cranny of the state. We don’t need soldiers anymore to man our streets. They remind us of the crises. “We have not been in crisis situation since 2011, so we want the soldiers out. We have large numbers of youths to protect our respective communities. We know the terrains better than the soldiers who are strangers here. This is our appeal to the Federal Government on this World Peace Day.” The Village Head of Bugomo, Mr. Auta Bala, who spoke on behalf of other village heads said: “The current peace we are enjoying in the state is made possible mainly by youths who are working through vigilance groups. The youth used to be the warriors but now they have converted themselves to agents of security for their people. “I therefore called on government to engage the youth by paying them monthly salary or allowance to keep them going.” He also called on the Plateau State Government to establish a Ministry of Peace and Conflict Resolution to make the prevailing peace permanent. The youth, in their hundreds, climbed the half-kilometre-tall mountain popularly called “Dogon Dutse” meaning (Tall rock) to hoist the Peace Flag singing songs of victory in the process.

OR the people of Jigawa State, the flag-off of this year’s Hajj airlift to Saudi Arabia from the Dutse International Airport at Fanisau Village recently was an opportunity to show to the entire country that the state is indeed The New World. As a result, they turned out en masse from the 27 local government areas very early to witness the event, which also served as the official inauguration of the airport. To add colour to the ceremony, they came with their traditional drums singing and dancing. The retinues of the Shehu of Borno and the Emirs of Kano, Hadejia, Suleja, Ringim, Funai, Daura, Kazaure, Gumel, Kaltungo, Maradun and the Oba of Lagos, who is also this year’s National Amirul Hajj, added sounds and lyrics from their trumpets and paraphernalia of offices. In essence, the roads leading to the airport were, for many hours, witnessed heavy gridlock from both human and vehicular movements. However, among the early birds at the event was a slim Octogenarian, who wore white guinea brocade and sat at the back of the pavilion, meant for eminent personalities. In the midst of siren-blowing vehicles, he gazed intermittently at the surrounding of the airport, smiling at every objects of his attraction. Investigation revealed that the elderly man was the Chairman of Committee for the Creation of Jigawa State, Mallam Inuwa Dutse. Moving closer to him, his eyes looked misty with joy and fulfilment. With slow and steady voice, he returned the greetings of two reporters who went to him to request for an interview, which he instantly granted. Responding to a question on how he felt, he said: “I am very happy to attend the 2014 Hajj airlift’s flag-off and the inauguration of this airport in Dutse, which was the least developed area in the former Kano State. I am very, very happy to be alive to witness this occasion. “When Jigawa State was created, there was very little development. But with the coming of Sule Lamido, he has done the best to raise the level of development in Jigawa State to one of the best in Nigeria. I am very pleased and very glad. “We the people of Jigawa State support the governor for what he is doing. He has justified our agitation for the creation of more states and, especially Jigawa State. His performance will also serve as justification for those agitating for more states.” Mallam Dutse vividly conveyed the feelings of the people and dignitaries, as the event turned out to be. The event was not the first they

•From left: Oba Akiolu, Sultan of Sokoto, Sambo, Lamido and Aliyu

Joy as Jigawa airport takes its maiden flight to Mecca ‘We the people of Jigawa State support the governor for what he is doing. He has justified our agitation for the creation of more states and, especially Jigawa State. His performance will also serve as justification for those agitating for more states’ By Bola Olajuwon, Assistant Editor

would be attending. They had witnessed former heads of state and top serving politicians coming to inaugurate one project or the other during Lamido’s over seven years tenure. The projects included the inauguration of the state secretariat, NYSC Orientation Camp, High Court complex, roads network, College of Nursing and Midwifery as well as a civic centre and rally ground Aminu Kano Triangle. The residents also listed the inauguration of the state television and radio stations, local government secretariats, second nationally-recognised state-owned School for the Gifted, state university, residences and offices for Deputy Gov-

the outside world. Will the state reap from tourism if the huge sums of money are available to fix the infrastructure?

•Continued on page 32

•An old-century truck conveying goods

•One of the old-century vehicles used on the mountains

So, our basic problem is the huge resources required to develop the infrastructure before we can think of marketing our tourism industry to

ernor, Speaker and Deputy Speaker, local government chairmen, Chief Judge and Grand Khadi, housing estate for civil servants, Emirs’ lodges among other landmark projects. And from the remarks of dignitaries who spoke at the carnivallike ceremony, which could also have been mistaken for a political rally or campaign, the governor had delivered again. Those who addressed the intending pilgrims and the guests were the Vice-President, Namadi Sambo who represented President Goodluck Jonathan; Chairman of Northern Governors’ Forum and Niger State Governor Aliyu Babangida; Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad the 111; the 2014 Amirul -Hajj and Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Aremu Akiolu, Chairman

of Jigawa Council of Chiefs and Emir of Hadeija, Ahaji Adamu Abubakar Maje, Executive Chairman of National Hajj Commission, Mallam Muhammad Musa Bello. Sambo, in his address, expressed the apology of President Jonathan for his inability to be at the event. He asked the 530 pilgrims to be better ambassadors of the country, imbibe the orientations given to them by the country’s agencies and to adhere to Saudi Arabia laws. He said: “I believe all pilgrims are aware of the challenges our country is experiencing. These challenges require not only dedication of the leadership but also prayers from every pilgrim. We should therefore be persistent in our prayers for peace, progress and prosperity of our beloved country.” The President reminded the pilgrims of their spiritual obligations, saying as they perform the Hajj pilgrimage, they must dedicate themselves to the spiritual revival of their souls to achieve “good life on earth and aspire for eternal bliss in the hereafter. He prayed for their safe airlift and successful hajj. Jonathan, who praised the improvement in airlifting of pilgrims to the Holy Land where Nigeria had

Recall what Governor Suntai said the other day; that the Nwonyo Fishing Festival which was being organised annually, for instance, is

a waste of resources because it has not generated any revenue to Taraba State. There are certain fundamental

principles that should be understood in developing the tourism industry. •Continued on page 32

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2014

THE NORTH REPORT •Continued from page 31 been able to meet her deadline, said: “I am glad to note that the days when Nigeria requested for extension of time from Saudi Arabia because of our inability to meet the airlift deadline for the closure of the King Abdulazeez International Airport are gone for good.” He further praised the Nigeria Hajj Commission for their improved performance in being able to surmount the numerous challenges they were confronted with. “We note the improvement in performance of Hajj operations in Nigeria. I urge the leadership of the Hajj Commission to see this improvement as a motivation to propel it to greater height so that Hajj operations in Nigeria will toe the line of international best practice,” he said. He added that the administration has always supported the welfare of all Muslims through the Hajj Commission by assisting the pilgrims with consular, medical and exchange support services. “While government will continue to meet these primary and essential needs, it is important that the commission works towards being more self-sustaining and selffinancing,” he said. The President assured Nigerians that the Federal Government was doing everything possible to contain the spread of the Ebola virus disease and has promised to continue supporting all the states of the federation. He stated that the government has, in addition to the N200 million support funds to Lagos State, earmarked the sum of N1.9 billion as support for states to contain the spread of the virus. He added that this support has also been extended to some neigbouring countries to contain the spread of the disease. To the Sultan of Sokoto and Permanent National Amirul Hajj, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar 111, the pilgrims must adhere strictly to the rules and regulations governing the performance of hajj and to present themselves to all necessary medical tests to be carried out on them. The Sultan, who also called for special prayers by the pilgrims to defeat all the evils in the country, urged all Nigerians to join hands in bringing to an end the security challenges the country is experiencing. He praised the Federal Government’s efforts in containing the spread of the dreaded Ebola virus in the country, which he said has made this year’s hajj possible. Oba Osuolale urged the pilgrims to be of good manners and not to

Joy as Jigawa airport takes its maiden flight to Mecca

•The Max aircraft lifting the pilgrims

engage themselves in any act capable of embarrassing the country. The Chairman of the National Hajj Commission praised Jigawa State for the preparation it put in place for the Hajj airlift. He said there would be 12 designated departure centres, including four new ones in Enugu, Bauchi, Kebbi and Dutse for the airlift. He hailed the government for the support it extended to the commission. Babangida Aliyu praised Lamido as the most experienced among other governors in the North. Urging him to prepare for higher services, the Niger State governor said he came to know what warranted the governor’s outburst over the nomination of Jonathan by the Northeast chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He promised that the issues that necessitated Lamido’s remarks would be resolved. Those issues, he said, included the settlement of the N13 billion spent on the Dutse airport, extension of pipe-borne water from Auyo to Dutse and construction of Federal roads, among others. Surprisingly and as if he was

‘I believe all pilgrims are aware of the challenges our country is experiencing. These challenges require not only dedication of the leadership but also prayers from every pilgrim. We should therefore be persistent in our prayers for peace, progress and prosperity of our beloved country’ overwhelmed by the mammoth gathering and praises heaped on him, Lamido’s remarks were short. He thanked the hajj commission for the choice of Dutse for the flag-off of the hajj operation. The pilgrims were airlifted by Max Air. The maiden flight departed at 5.38p.m. Meanwhile, Jonathan did the groundbreaking ceremony of the airport project on October 5, 2012. With its inauguration, the airport according to the Sultan, “is one of the best if not the best in this part of the world.” Other eminent per-

sonalities also described it as the fastest airport project ever executed by any government. It was built on five kilometres radius piece of land and situated at 10. 4 kilometres distance northwest from Dutse main town. It has 3000 by 60 metres runway. It is equipped with fire-fighting trucks, land body scan machines, high resolutions close circuit television cameras (CCTV) , covering in and out of the fenced the airport facilities. It is also equipped with air navigation equipment, Doppler, the voice communication and

control system (VCCS) and the Conventional Very High frequency omnidirectional Radio Range (CVOR) in the seven- storey control tower to enable communication from all direction with aircraft at the distance of 180 nautical miles from the airport. An engineer at the airport said: “The CVOR is the latest best air navigational equipment in the world manufactured by Thales. The landing aid instruments guides the aircraft to the centre of the tarmac, the Glide Slope that provides glide angle, the Distance Measuring Equipment (DME) and non-Directional Beacon were installed to give pilots and passengers better view when landing and taking off.” Before the hajj operation, Overland Airways began thrice weekly flights (Monday, Wednesday, and Friday) operation from Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja to Dutse on Monday, July 14 this year. After the hajj flag-off, a resident of Dutse said: “Who knows how many projects of this standard Lamido will inaugurate again before he lives office?”

‘How to boost Taraba’s tourism sector’ •Continued from page 31

•Dr. Tor-Agbidye

When I say the state has tourism potential, it doesn’t mean it is all about organising festivals and inviting people to come and feast on the jamborees. Let us consider the Central Taraba for example; the Mambilla Plateau in Gembu. There are a lot of sceneries that are good for visitors to come and watch. In Serti, there is the Gashaka National Gumti Park, with a lot of wild animals. One can develop the area for international tourism to take place. So, what I mean is that we need to develop our tourism industry very well. When we develop our tourism industry, then we can sell what is developed to the international community to come in with their money. That is the only time the state can reap or benefit from the money sunk in tourism. Not just organising festivals, but developing the infrastructure and selling what is developed to the international community, telling them what we have in Taraba that they participate in. There are different types of tour-

ism that I want to talk about here: there is a tourism that is for leisure, where people could come, relax, watch things and enjoy themselves. We have medicinal tourism, where people can come for treatment and other things. In this case, we have a lot of medicinal products in Gembu, but we need to identify and put them there so that if anyone comes here, he will see what we have. We have a lot of wild animals that are not readily available elsewhere. We can put them in zoos for people to come and watch. Then we can build hotels around such areas so that when people come, they can go there and lodge in. When the infrastructure is developed and we sell our tourism to the international community, people coming in can patronise us, by spending their money–be it dollar, naira, euro or other currencies. That is when the state would reap the benefits, but not when the state takes huge sums of money and organises events. Many countries now rely on their tourism indus-

tries. Their states do not spend money. They have developed their infrastructure and they generate their revenue when foreigners visit their countries to spend their dollars. What particular type of tourism do you think Taraba State should develop, in terms of priority? As I said, we have leisure tourism, medicinal, historical; religious and other forms of tourism. We can develop all of them. Which of them do you think the state should start with, considering revenue generation? You can start with the leisure, because people travel out for leisure. Medicinal tourism is for those who are particularly sick. So, we can start with the leisure because tourists like to relax when they seek break from the stress of day-to-day life. For example, if you go to Obudu Cattle Ranch, you are going there to relax, see fascinating scenery, enjoy the pleasant atmosphere and become happily refreshed. So, leisure tourism should be a starting point.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2014

Website: http://www.thenationonlineng.com

Page 33

•Garbage heap at Kubwa

Abuja’s mountainous garbage dumps W

HEN the idea of moving Nigeria’s capital city from Lagos to Abuja was conceived in the late 1970s, it was believed that the new capital city would be less congested and neater than Lagos that seemed so crowded and grimy so much so that it fell short of international standard of what a country’s capital should be. The perception, as encapsulated in the Abuja Master Plan, was a world-class capital that would match those of USA, England, Japan and Germany, among others that are near perfect in terms of tidiness and orderliness. Never was it thought to be a city where refuse dumps would be competing in height with one of the tallest mountains, let alone being overcrowded like the Old Oshodi in Lagos State. We concede that in the first few years after it finally became the nation’s capital from 1986 during the regime of Military President Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, there was an appreciable level of orderliness and neatness. However, the same cannot be said of Nigeria’s capital city. It has been characterised by seemingly irreversible inclination to why it took over from Lagos as capital city, which are congestion and filthiness. Several mountains-like refuse dumps

From Gbenga Omokhunu

beautify the city, especially in the area councils. The situation has become a source of worry to successive administrations of the Federal Capital Territory and residents of the area. In the circumstances, residents of Kubwa 2 Extension, Bwari Area Council of the FCT, have cried out to the administration of the council over what they called “lifethreatening refuse heaps”. They urged the council to save them from the looming danger that may result from the mountainous garbage dump. This, they said, the council could do by evacuating the garbage mass along the KubwaDutse Road which is causing health hazard to the people. In a chat with our correspondent, most of the residents said the garbage has piled for a very long time, adding that there was need for the council to evacuate it as the stench oozing out of the heap was becoming unbearable. One of the residents, Ike Eguna, said the area was not the best place to be designated a garbage dump as it was along the road, stressing that people pass through there breathing in the bad odour. “The garbage heap is along the road. Most people pass through there to church and when we do, we don’t always feel comfortable.

•Another garbage heap

‘The garbage heap is along the road. Most people pass through there to church and when we do, we don’t always feel comfortable. We have to rush pass through. It is rather disgusting and one is scared of the health hazard it might cause to people’ We have to pass the area in a rush. It is rather disgusting and one is scared of the health hazard it might cause to people,” he said. Another resident, Gonu Boku,

pleaded with the council to designate another areawhere people could be dumping their garbage. He added that very soon the garbage heap will make the road im-

passable. “When that happens, I don’t know what we will do. It is already happening. We are calling on the council authorities to help in evacuating it before the situation becomes worse,” he said. Another resident, Hassana Muhammed, added that the mai bolas had made matters worse at the area as they travel from all parts of Kubwa and Dutse to pill refuse there, adding that there was need for the mai bolas to be shown the designated venues where they could dump the garbage.

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2014

ABUJA REVIEW

Residents cry out over bad road R

ESIDENTS of Zuba in Gwagwalada Council have cried out to the council authorities to come to fix the ‘water logged’ road along Zuba Park area. The bad state of the road, they said, has made vehicular movement difficult. Some of the residents who spoke to our correspondent said due to lack of drainage in the area and the potholes on the road, it has always been over flooded, especially during rainy days. Narrating her ordeal on the road, a traveller, Aisha Zuba, stated that she was on a commercial motor cycle going to the park to board a vehicle to Kano and she and the motor cyclist fell into the dirty water because of the bad road. “He fell on top of his bike and I fell too. I thank God that nothing happened to both of us, only little bruises. The most annoying thing was that my bag fell into a pool of

From Gbenga Omokhunu

mud. My clothes were soaked. I had to cancel the journey. Seriously, something needs to be done about the road,” she said. One of the traders at the International Market, Zuba, Igwe Emeka said the road was getting worse by the day. He called on the council authorities to fill the potholes as it will make movement easier. Another resident, Chikodili Nze said the maintenance of the road will enhance the development of the market thereby generating revenue for the government. “Wherever there is a market, it is necessary that the road leading to it should be motorable. We bring in a lot of goods to the market in trucks. It is always a busy road. But since the road is bad, there is always traffic jam,” she said.

•One of the bad roads in Gwagwalada

FCTA needs N200bn to resettle natives From Gbenga Omokhunu

•Newly inducted certified members during the 5th Induction of Certified Librarians of Nigeria held in Abuja. PHOTO: ABAYOMI FAYESE

Youths urge council on development

HE Rubochi Youth Association (RUYA) in Kuje Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has called on the authorities of the council and the FCT Administration to provide infrastructural facilities for residents of the community. In a communiqué jointly signed by the union’s President, Comrade Iyakwo Joseph, Secretary, Comrade Abdullahi Galadima and Publicity Secretary, Comrade, Ayaje John Bako at the end of the union’s first economic summit held at the community, the youth urged the council to provide potable water, electricity and good road network to link Rubochi-Gombe with neighbouring Gadabuke town. They also urged the FCT Administration to intensify efforts in rehabilitating the Kuje-Gwagwalada and Abaji-Rubochi roads, saying it would go a long way in attracting the attention of merchants that will patronise traders at the Rubochi Market, thereby boosting economic activities as well as revenue generation for the council. The communiqué also said the council authorities should encourage local farmers to engage in more productive farming activities through the provision of modern farm inputs and implements such as improved seed-

From Gbenga Omokhunu

lings, fertiliser, tractors, harvesters and storage facilities. These will improve food production. “The authorities of Kuje Area Council, under the leadership of Mr. Shaban Ishaku Tete, should, as matter of urgency, save the neglected Rubochi development secretariat from total collapse by renovating it. Consequently, some departments of the council could relocate to the secretariat for easy of accommodation,” the communiqué said. The youth stressed the need for the council chief to designate some days to personally attend to official matters at Rubochi, an action, they said, would enhance administrative activities in the secretariat. The union therefore, pledged to collaborate with the council authorities in providing banking services at Rubochi, especially micro-finance bank that would encourage economic activities, even as they assured businessmen and residents of safety of their resources. “RUYA is also assuring businessmen and women that it would collaborate with palace chief of Rubochi and government of Kuje Area Coun-

cil to ensure that all resolutions reached are implemented,” they added. In another development, The Chairman of Kuje Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Hon.Shaban Tete has expressed determination to partner with the National Film and Video Censors Board, in order to eliminate uncensored and unapproved videos from the FCT markets. Tete made this commitment when members of executive of the National Film and Video Censors Board visited him in his office to express their gratitude to the council chief for the office space allocated to them. According to Tete, for the board to choose Kuje as site for their office was a welcome development, saying the leadership of the council will collaborate with the board in order to sanitise the movie industry. He noted that uncensored immoral movies seen in the markets currently are not capable of teaching good morals to the young ones. “We will do what it takes to support your board, so that you will succeed in your endeavour. Our hands are on deck, because we need to control the types of movies that our children

watch at home that could negatively affect their behaviours. “So, anywhere the council needs to encourage your board, we will do so. Our doors are open to support you so that the movie industry would be properly sanitised,” he said. Earlier, Mrs. Patricia Bala, DirectorGeneral, National Film and Video Censors Board who expressed gratitude to the chairman for giving them the office space, said the board needed to collaborate with the leadership of the council after setting up the office, to make their fight against uncensored movies successful. “We hope to set up a committee with the council and we want the council to nominate a desk office which we would be liaising with to the council. We really need to set up the committee to start working, because we need to sanitise the industry. As it is now, our staff strength cannot cover the whole country. “We really need the collaboration of the council, since there are a lot of uncensored movies in the market. We alone cannot cover everything, which is why we need to work with the council. We will be happy if the committee is set up, so that we can kick off immediately. There are too many unwholesome movies in the market and if they are not approved, they will be thrown out,” she said.

HE Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) requires about N200 billion to compensate and resettle villages within the 250 square kilometres of the Federal Capital City. The Minister of the FCT, Senator Bala Mohammed revealed this while receiving the participants of the National Defence College, Course 23, 2014 that came on a study tour. Mohammed, who was represented at the occasion by the FCT Permanent Secretary, Mr John Chukwu, said the administration has been innovative in tackling the infrastructural challenges in the territory. He emphasised that the ever-dwindling funds for infrastructural development made the FCT Administration introduce the Abuja Land Swap policy to improve infrastructure as well as reduce the housing deficit in the Federal Capital Territory. Mohammed noted that in 1976 when the Federal Capital Territory was created, the government required only about N2 billion to resettle the natives although the value of N2 billion then was much. He reiterated that the cost of resettlement of the natives increased as a result of the increase in population of the natives. According to him, the population of the natives then was manageable than what obtains today as the families keep on growing. The minister remarked that with the introduction of the Land Swap policy, the FCT Administration is simultaneously opening up 10 new districts and proffering solution to issues of resettlement and compensation that hitherto had become knotty. He revealed that the transformation agenda of President Goodluck Jonathan has positively impacted on the development of the entire 8,000 square kilometres of the Federal Capital Territory by changing its landscape for good. The leader of delegation and Director, Curriculum Programme Development of the National Defence College, Commodore Aliyu Baba Lawal, appreciated the warm reception accorded the participants. Commodore Lawal called for continued collaboration between the FCT Administration and the National Defence College; stressing that the administration has, for a long time, been partnering with the college.

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2014

ABUJA REVIEW

•From right: First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan; the couple, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Nwaora and Mrs. Polycarp Obichukwu at the wedding reception of Charles and Edith Nwaora in Abuja. PHOTO: AKIN OLADOKUN

•From right:Minister of Water Resources, Mrs Sarah Ochekpe; Minister of Information, Labaran Maku and Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Information, Dr Folashade Esan during Ministry of Water Resources, 2014 ministerial platform held in Abuja. PHOTO: ABAYOMI FAYESE

•From left: Niger State Governor Aliyu Babangida; Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido and Gombe State Governor Ibrahim Dankwambo during the PDP National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Abuja. PHOTO: AKIN OLADOKUN

•Managing Director/CEO, Nigerian Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), Alhaji Umaru Ibrahim (left); Director of Insurance and Surveillance Department, Mr. Zaccheaus Anate,and Director, Administration Department, Mrs. Christiana Afabor, during a press conference to mark the 25 th anniversary of PHOTO: ABAYOMI FAYESE NDIC in Abuja.

•From left: National Secretary, Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria AMLSN, Robert Dehi; National President of the association, Dr. Godswill Okara and National 1 st Vice-President AMLSN, Alhaji Toyosi Raheem during the Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria Conference on Ebola Virus in Abuja. PHOTO: AKIN OLADOKUN

•From left: Minister of Environment, Lawrencia Labara Mallam; Minister of State for Agriculture, Hajia Asabe Ahmed and Minister of Water Resources, Sarah Achekpe at a meeting in PHOTO: AKIN OLADOKUN Abuja.

•Registrar/Chief Executive Officer, Librarians Registration Council of Nigeria (LRCN), Dr Gloria Okojie (left); Executive Secretary, National Universities Commission (NUC), Prof. Julius Okojie and Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Education, Hon. Aminu Suleiman during PHOTO: ABAYOMI FAYESE the 5th induction of Certified Librarians of Nigeria held in Abuja.

•National Vice-Chairman of PDP South South, Dr. Cairo Ojougboh (left); Chief Edwin Clark; Zonal Secretary of PDP South South, Mr Joe Edionwele and Publicity Secretary, Mr. Imowo Popo, PHOTO: ABAYOMI FAYESE during the South South PDP visit to Clark in Abuja.

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2014

ABUJA REVIEW

Jonathan, Sambo and the 2015 ticket W

ITH all the organs of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) declaring President Goodluck Jonathan the sole Presidential candidate of the party for the 2015 general elections, the decision to pick his running mate is said to be the exclusive right of the President. The sole candidacy declared for Jonathan was said to only cover him and not his Vice, Namadi Sambo. For this reason, many politicians interested in the number two job have continued to make clandestine moves to lobby for the post. Many of them are believed to be scheming to take charge in 2019 when Jonathan's tenure will elapse should he get another term in 2015. Some of them have begun testing the waters with posters flooding Abuja and many parts of the country showing them as probable running mates to President Jonathan. A case in point is the poster showing the PDP National Chairman, Adamu Muazu as the running mate to Jonathan, which took over Abuja streets as soon as Jonathan was declared sole candidate of the party a forthnight ago. Muazu has not disowned or disassociated himself from the posters, a week after they flooded Abuja. If he has nothing to do with it, political watchers expect Muazu to announce to the public that the posters were the handiwork of his detractors. This was yet to be done as at Thursday last week. Another allegation has it that Jigawa State Governor; Sule Lamido shelved his Presidential ambition to settle for the number two job under the party. But what is being thrown up

From the Villa

By Augustine Ehikioya against Sambo, who many believed has been very loyal and instrumental to all the achievements recorded by Jonathan in the past four years, was the allegation that he has a diminished political value and may not be able to deliver the North for Jonathan in 2015. Sambo's loyalty was said to have facilitated smooth running of the administration unlike the ugly experi-

ences recorded in the past. As Jonathan is expected to publicly accept the sole candidacy and announce his running-mate in the next few weeks, political watchers are keenly eager to see if Jonathan will place Sambo's loyalty above every other consideration, or if he will pick other politicians scheming and strategising to take control of the leadership in 2019.

URN-OUT of ministers for the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting on Wednesday, last week was not too impressive as less than half of the ministers in the cabinet were present. Only 20 out of the 43 ministers in the cabinet attended the FEC meeting presided over by Vice-President, Namadi Sambo. The FEC also sat for about one hour deliberating on the activities lined up to mark Nigeria's 54th independence anniversary. President Goodluck Jonathan was away in New York leading Nigeria's delegation to the 69th session of the United Nations General Assembly. The ministers that were present in the FEC meeting during the opening rendition of the National Anthem around 10:13 a.m. last Wednesday were: Mike Onolememen (Works), Omobola Johnson (Communication Technology), Labaran Maku (Information), Mohammed Wakil (Power,

Ministers to resign for governorship race

N the next few weeks, many ministers are expected to resign from the Federal Executive Council (FEC) in order to run for the governorship elections in their states in 2015. While some of them have started to put structures on ground towards the elections, others are still undecided whether to go or keep their juicy portfolios in the cabinet. Among the names being thrown up for resignation are Labaran Maku to contest in Nasarawa State, Nyesom Wike for governorship position

Low turn-out at FEC meeting

in Rivers State, Bala Mohammed to contest in Bauchi, Taminu Turaki for Kebbi State governorship race, while Samuel Ortom is expected to slug it out for the Benue State governorship slot. While Maku is not hiding his ambition as his campaign vehicles could be spotted in the Federal Capital Territory and Nasarawa State, Bala Mohammed, who was said to have earlier indicated interest to contest the Bauchi governorship race is now said to have lately

shelved the idea. Among the ministers that had resigned their appointments this year for governorship ambitions include former Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Godsday Orubebe and former Police Affairs Minister, Caleb Olubolade, who lost the Ekiti PDP governorship primary to Ayo Fayose. The truth about all those interested in governorship race and other political ambitions in the present cabinet will come to surface in the next few days and weeks.

State) and Asabe Ahmed (Agriculture, State). Others were: Umar Idris (Transport), Emeka Wogu (Labour and Productivity), Sarah Ochekpe (Water), Mohammed Sada (Mines), Abu Bulama (Science and Technology), Steven Oru (Niger Delta Affairs), Darius Ishaku (Niger Delta Affairs, State), Bala Mohammed (FCT), Olajumoke Akinjide (FCT, State) and Samuel Ortom (Trade and Investment, State). Also at the meeting were: Taminu Turaki (Special Duties), Bashir Yuguda (Finance, State), Abduljelili Adesiyan (Police Affairs), Nyesom Wike (Education, State), and Adedayo Adeyeye (Works, State). The statement announcing President Jonathan's trip to New York, this time around, did not disclose the ministers that will accompany him on the trip. This was probably done to prevent controversies that trailed such past trips. In the past, some of the ministers on such trip had been accused of abandoning their assignments abroad for shopping sprees. But the President himself had denied such allegation, saying that all the ministers needed not attend all the function, but only had to attend the meetings that are relevant to their portfolios. Even as the list of ministers on the New York trip was not disclosed, the ministers in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs cannot afford not to be on the trip.

Community praises council chief

EMBERS of Kpaduma community in Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), have praised the Chairman of the council, Hon. Micah Jiba, for evolving policies and programmes that affect positively the lives of people. Hon. Bala Iyah, a former councillor that represented Garki in the council and a citizen of the Kpaduma community revealed this on behalf of members in a briefing tagged: “The State of Abuja and the way forward for FCT Citizens.” He said: “It is now obvious that the council is moving forward to greater height. The positive movement started from the administration of Hon. Zephaniah Jisalo, who worked for six years as AMAC chairman to improve

From Gbenga Omokhunu

the lives of the people and later decided to give FCT citizens improved and better leadership by representing them at the House of Representatives.” Iyah advised residents of AMAC and the entire FCT to support the present governments at all levels, to enable them to further improve the lives of the people, saying that only governments with good intention can work towards enhancing the well-being of the people they are leading, adding that they deserve commendation from the people. “We the citizens of Kpaduma communities are very grateful to the government of AMAC led by Hon. Micah Jiba for not neglecting our communities. Jiba has really done well for the people of AMAC. When we

had no electricity, we cried to him and he embarked on rural electrification and even pipe borne water. The same thing he did for other communities in the council. “We cannot stop commending all our leaders, because they have never let us down. Although, there are still much for improvement, mostly on the issue of our ancestral land and I believe that God will continue to give them the grace and strength to work for the people they are leading,” he said. Iyah appealed to residents of the community and the entire FCT to adhere to the instruction of the Federal Government to maintain healthy environment and cultivate the attitude of cleanliness, as the fight against the spread of the deadly Ebola disease continues.

•One of the Abuja overhead bridge in a very bad shape

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2014

LEGAL OPINION As the military and Boko Haram insurgents battle for the control of some towns in the Northeastern states of Borno, Yobe and Adamawa, a Lagos lawyer, Kunle Uthman, examines the sect’s origin and its activities. He gives tips on how to rescue the Chibok school girls abducted by the group last April.

‘How to defeat Boko Haram, rescue Chibok girls’ •Continued from last week

T is clear and obvious that we are once again back to the era of Youth Earnestly Yearn For Abacha. The result of that woeful exercise has been properly chronicled by historians as the dark era of our nation’s political history and it is apposite that the present “Sovereign” avoid the pitfalls and the resultant effects of such irresponsible and appalling conduct. As a people we need to be better focused and realize that power is transient. There an obligation to rule with the fear of God. Abimbola Adelagun in an article titled “Youths Earnestly Ask For Goodluck Jonathan, stated that in respect of Ibrahim Babangida and Sani Abacha’s failed civilian transfigurations, President Goodluck Jonathan is being endorsed by vainglorious organizations. The new kid on the block is the Transformation Ambassadors of Nigeria (TAN) that seek to sell the Goodluck Jonathan candidature to Nigerians. They have collected 1.8 million signatures in the South West; 1.6 million in the South East and 4.15 million in the South South. The irony of these beg-the-President-to-contest movements is that like all fly-by-night ideas, none has outlived its promoted candidate. It is therefore a spurious waste of scare resources to engage in these charade of persuasion of collation of dubious signatures, endorsed tacitly and covertly by an high ranking official as the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, whose posture in receiving these signatures is a clear testimony of a lazy public official, whose pre-occupation is to vacate his office and engage in meaningless activities that debase the institution of government, moreso in a country in a semi State of warfare. Chinua Achebe in analysing the prediction of the American government that Nigeria would be a failed state by 2015, put it in proper perspective when he defined a failed State as one that is unable to perform its duties on several levels; when violence cascades into an all-out internal war, when standards of living massively deteriorate, when the infrastructure of ordinary life decays, and when the greed of rulers overwhelms their responsibilities to better their people and their surroundings. Experts say many Northern Nigerians view the presidency of Goodluck Jonathan, a Christian, as illegitimate, arguing that he ignored an informal power rotation agreement that should have kept a muslim as President. President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, a muslim, died in 2010, two years into his four year tenure and Jonathan assumed office to complete the uncom-

pleted term, he being the Vice President at that time. He, Goodluck Jonathan has further contested and won an election for four years, which would be completed in 2015. If Jonathan wins the Presidential election in 2015, or if there are no elections in 2015 because of social unrest in Northern-Nigeria, political tensions in Nigeria will increase. So writes Campbell in his book ‘Nigeria: Dancing on the Brink’. He further submitted that the “formal politics” of Northern Nigeria are “overwhelmingly dominated by muslim elites, who have, like their counterpart across the country, benefited from oil wealth at the expenses of regional development. He says that the central purpose of the Nigerian State is to divide up the country’s oil wealth among elites, making Nigeria’s politics a “zero-sum game”. Is Nigeria a failed or failing State? Is it not obligatory for our leaders, or the Sovereign to exercise the enormous powers entrusted in him by the constitution and the several legislations and can the present crop of political leaders guarantee the safety of lives and properties of the citizenry or are we as a people doomed to perdition because of bad leadership? Will the political gerrymandering and obsession by our leaders to perpetuate themselves in power blindfold them from seeing the urgency to solve the insurgency in the north and to secure the timeous release of the Chibok Girls from captivity and return them to their families? It is gratifying to note that Austin Alegeh (SAN), the President of the Nigerian Bar Association in his inaugural acceptance speech identified the problem of insecurity & Boko Haram insurgency as some of the problems bedeviling the Nigerian nation and unresolved by the Sovereign and his security apparatus. The country needs a very dynamic and focus Bar Association leadership. Lawyers by their calling are oblige to safeguard democratic institutions and the constitution and they have eminently discharged this responsibility in the past. We must be alive to our responsibilities and in unspeakable terms ensure that our leaders appreciate that ultimate power belongs to the people. Our leaders, both elected and imposed are trustees of these enormous powers. There is a social contract between them and us to ensure good governance and security of our lives and properties. The era of profligate conversion of the resources of the state into personal wealth is the epitome of bad leadership and we have, like a cursed nation been unfortunate to be led at almost all level of governance by people who are not God fearing and who have continuously determined our fortunes and social and

economic future within the context of a cabal. The limit of Sovereign power is concisely stated St. Thomas Aguinas (122574) who postulated that by his ‘oath of his coronation’ a king was supposed to have made a pact with his people, to promote a happy and virtuous life, and if he failed to fulfill his implied pact with his people he ceased to deserve that the pact be kept by the latter. The modern day President and Commander-in-Chief is that Sovereign above alluded to, who assumes this role upon taking his oath of office in accordance with the constitution. Therefore, it is not the numbers of signatures gathered foolhardily that ingratiates the Sovereign in the minds of the people or the annals of history, but how he is able to provide the greatest happiness for the greatest number. Democracy as a system of government is where the people exercise their governing power through representatives periodically elected by them. A State is therefore a democracy, if it provides institutions for the expression and in the last analysis, the supremacy of the popular will on the basic questions of social direction and policy, Nigerian as a geographical configuration has a population of more than 170m people, and it is obligatory that our leaders at all levels of governance allow their performances to determine their eligibility for re-election and not through a dubious collection or collation of signatures when there are National emergencies that portend dangers. What do our leaders envision for our country and its people? Let us take a clue from South Africa and the emergence of the iconic Nelson Mandela, a lawyer and statesman, our salvation at these times resides in a vocal, vibrant and critical NBA and populace to set the agenda for good governance. The government should continue to apply force so as to keep the Boko Haram Terrorist Group under pressure, on the run and on the defensive. This should be followed by tracing sources of their funding and identifying sponsors. Though military and police pressure can drive terrorism into extinction, political problems could also require political solution. The State should in open trial prosecute and humiliate terrorists and secure their due prosecution and imprisonment to serve as a detterence to others as a haven where there is no hiding place. Enabling laws should be enacted and statutory provisions further strengthened to ensure expeditious prosecution and a deviation from the slow and snail pace of ordinary prosecution in regular courts. The amnesty solution applied in the

Nigeria Delta region should be considered to resolve the menace of Boko Haram, only if the leaders would recent, lay down their arms, and come out to meet the government by surrender, because amnesty can only be given to identifiable persons. Dr. David Oladimeji Alao and Oluwafisayo Atere in their publication titled ‘Boko Haram Insurgence in Nigeria: The Challenges and Lessons’, an article in the Singaporean Journal of Business Economics, And Management Studies, stated that the terrorists acts of Boko Haram since 2009 have created a state of palpable fear in Nigeria and beyond, while the helpless posture of government is worrisome. It was found that insurgence was a manifestation of frustration on account of national political, religious and economic systems while the institutional mechanism adopted in managing the crisis was defective. They wrote that the challenges are not insurmountable but a reflection of a weak State. The learned authors’ recommends the review of the Federal Government’s approach to handling political or other related crisis as peace approach is more successful than security approach. The use of force with the intent of eliminating or suppressing opponents is like operating under security approach that often ends up in generating greater violence. Peace approach often wants to see the opponents as potential friends if the situation is carefully handled. The government should involve the cross section of Northern Emirs and prominent individuals in a genuine dialogue with the leaders of the group. The traditional rulers and local notables in each local government within the nation must be effectively accommodated into the local policing provided they were not imposed by government on helpless communities. In addition, the government must be tolerant of opposing views as the security of the Nation is the collective responsibility of all of us, its citizens irrespective of political, religious or ethnic affiliation. I totally agree with Joseph Siegle in his article ‘Boko Haram and the Isolation of Northern Nigeria: Regional and International Politics’ when he stated that the challenges posed by Boko Haram are emblematic of an emerging security paradigm in Africa today where local grievances are fused with international ideology, funding, and technology. Effectively addressing the multi-layers of this threat will re-

quire the creative engagement of Nigeria’s neighbours and international partners. It is, therefore, necessary that our governments at all levels should treat with utmost priority their obligations to provide security of lives and properties within all the segments of the Nigerian Nation. All efforts should be properly co-ordinated to rescue the innocent adolescent girls kidnapped in Chibok and our politicians and political parties should forthwith stop this drama of multiple accusations, unsupported by any empirical proof that certain high ranking government officials are sponsors of the insurgency in the Northern part of Nigeria, killing and maiming of innocent citizens including foreigners. If there is any proof of funding of terrorism within the Nigerian Nation, relevant information should be supplied to the security agencies who should timeously deal with the culprits. Our Nation is at the brink of a precipice and we all, collectively as a people rescue it for the immediate benefit of ourselves and to secure the future of our children yet unborn. Our President and the security apparatus of State should decisively bring the Boko Haram menace to an end, as was done in the Niger Delta, where security of lives and properties has been restored after several years of kidnapping, vandalization of properties, destroying of oil-wells and capital flight within that region. International assistance should be sought and obtained from other nations of the world who have been able to bring terrorism to an end. The time to act is now. •Concluded

Judicial workers suspend strike

• From left: Chief Richard Oma Ahonaruogho; member Lagos State Judicial Service Commission, Mr Kunle Uthman and former Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) General Secretary Lawal Rabana (SAN) at a dinner organised by the NBA President Augustine Alegeh (SAN) for new Senior Advocates of Nigeria in Abuja.

•President Goodluck Jonathan

HE Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) has suspended its strike. Its President, Comrade Mustapha Adamu made this known on Sunday. The union had billed to resume the strike on Thursday. It was aimed at pressing for better welfare of its members. Earlier, the 36 attorneys-general had appealed to judicial workers to reconsider their decision to resume their strike on October 2. The plea was contained in a communique issued after a meeting of the attorneys-general in Lagos. It was signed by the Chairman and Ondo State Attorneys-General and Commissioner for Justice Mr. Eyitayo Jegede (SAN) and Secretary, Nasarawa State, Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Innocent Lagi. The adopted the strike option to enforce the judgment of a federal high court, delivered by the Hon. Justice A.F.A Ademola against the National Judicial Council(NJC) and 73 other defendants on the funding

By Adebisi Onanuga

of the Judiciary. The body of attorneys-general reviewed the initial strike and picketing of the courts by the JUSUN. It decried the practice where judges, magistrates and litigants were locked out of court under the pretext of enforcing court judgment. It said the development portends danger to justice administration. It said the industrial action had a negative effect of depriving awaiting trial detainees of their liberty and access to justice. The body reviewed the issue of Taxes and Levies (Approved List) Collection Act, 1998 and the mounting of roadblocks by various council tax collectors across the country. It supported the President’s directive to the Inspector-General of Police to dismantle all roadblocks set up for the enforcement of revenue collection. The union condemned the attack on a judge in Ekiti State, urging that the matter be probed by the police and culprits punished.

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2014

LAW PERSONALITY President Goodluck Jonathan conferred yesterday national honours on some Nigerians. Legal Editor JOHN AUSTIN UNACHUKWU profiles some lawyers who were honoured.

Legal icons bag national honours

R. John Olatunde Ayeni (CON) is the chairman of Skye Bank. He was born in Kaduna. He graduated in law from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. He studied Strategic Industrial Growth at Lagos Business School in Nigeria and Harvard Business School, Boston in the United States and holds an honorary doctorate in business administration from Nigeria’s Achievers University, Akure in recognition of his enormous and ongoing contributions to the growth and development of the Nigerian economy. In September 2014 Dr. Ayeni was conferred with the Fellowship status of the Institute of Directors Nigeria He began his career in law, first as a legal adviser with Rodco Nigeria Limited; then as founder (in 1994) of Legal Resources Alliance. He remains the principal partner, leading a 50strong team of legal practitioners.

HIEF Mobolaji Olukayode Ayorinde (SAN), a fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, was born into the Ayorinde family of Ajimajasan Compound, Agbokojo Ibadan. His father was the Justice Timothy Adebayo Ayorinde, Former Chief Judge of Oyo State and Former Chancellor Diocese Ibadan, Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, while his mother is Chief Mrs Christiana Adetokunbo Ayorinde. In 1983, he attended the prestigious Holborn Law Tutors, Roupell Street, London for his University of London, Bachelor of Laws (LLB Hons) and graduated in 1985. He proceeded to the Nigerian Law School, Lagos in 1985, where he obtained the Council of Legal Education Certificate of Call to Bar in 1986. For his National Youth Service Programme in 1986, he was posted to Lagos State and attached to the Private Law Firm of Messrs AkinDelano in Lagos.

Local Government Area of Edo State. Mike (SAN) attended St. Mary’s Catholic Primary School, Iviukwe, between 1964- 1969, St. Peter’s College, Agenebode, from 1970-1974, Baptist Academy, Lagos, in 1975 and the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife) (19751980). He graduated with Bachelor of Laws LL. B. (Honours) degree in 1980. He became a Barrister at Law in 1981 after passing the Bar examination at the Nigerian Law School, Victoria Island, Lagos and pupilage with “Peoples Lawyer”, late Chief Kanmi-Isola Osobu. In 1986, he founded the law firm of Mike Ozekhome’s Chambers, with thriving offices in Lagos, Abuja, Benin City and Agenebode.

with A. Ismail Gadzama & Co. (Solicitors & Advocates) Kano from 19861988. He established the firm of J-K Gadzama & Partners in 1989 and has remained the Founding and Principal Partner till date. He was also admitted into the Lincoln’s Inn on the 9th of October, 2008. He is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, UK and a CEDR Accredited Mediator and was awarded the Member of the Order of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (MFR) December 2004, among others.

J D

AFE Akpedeye (SAN) had his legal education at University of Lagos, Lagos; Nigeria Law School, Lagos, Nigeria and Harvard Law School, Cambridge,for his MA. He was called to the Nigeria Bar in March 1984 and elevated to the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) in September 2004. Akpedeye’s (SAN) educational qualifications include Bachelor of Laws (LL.B), Second Class Honours, Upper Division, University of Lagos (1983); Barrister-at-law (BL), Nigeria Law School, Lagos (1984); and Master of Laws (LL.M), Harvard Law School, Cambridge, MA, USA (1985). Dafe Akpedeye (SAN) was appointed Notary Public of Nigeria in 1999. He has been a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (UK) since 1999; Chartered Arbitrator of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (UK) since 2004 and Fellow, Institute of Construction Industry Arbitrators. He became a Chartered Mediator in 2009. Akpedeye (SAN) served as the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Delta State between August 2007 and August 2009. He is the Founder and Principal Partner of Compos Mentis Chambers. The frm’fs practice spans oil and gas, banking, communication, immigration, mediation and arbitration.

UDE Nnodum (OFR) is a native of Etiti-Okabia, in Orsu Local Government Area of Imo State. He attended Bishop Shanahan College, Orlu for his secondary education; University of Ife, Ile-Ife where he earned his Bachelor of Laws degree (LL.B) and the Nigerian Law School, Lagos for his professional training where he earned a Barristerat-Law degree (Second Class, Upper Division). He was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1982. Later, in 1992, he earned a Master of Laws of Imo State University (later, known as Abia State University, Uturu).

R. Valerie Azinge (OFR) attended Santa Maria primary School, Enugu, where she obtained her primary school certificate, thereafter, she went to Queens school, Enugu where she obtained her West African School Certificate. She obtained her LL.B (Hons) from the University of Jos, she came out with Second class upper in 1980 and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1981 after her education at the Nigerian Law School. Dr. Azinge obtained her Master of Laws (LL.M) from the prestigious London School of Economics and Political Science in 1984 and in 1990, she obtained a Ph. D from the Ambrose Ali University, Ekpoma.

ROF. Epiphany Azinge (SAN) (OON)hails from Oshimili South Local Government Area of Delta State. He is an erudite scholar of both national and international repute. Prof. Peter Okebukola described him as “a five-star legal scholar”. Azinge attended St. Patrick’s College, Asaba where he obtained his West African School Certificate in Division one 1970-76, he attended the University of Lagos, Lagos, 1976-1979, the Nigerian Law School, Victoria Island Lagos, 19791980 , after which he was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1980. From there, he attended the London School of Economics, University of London where he obtained his Master of Laws (LL.M) in 1983 specialising in Comparative constitutional law and shipping. He was elevated to the prestigious rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) in 2006. He started his career as a State Counsel in Gongola State Ministry of Justice, Yola during his National Youth Service. Between 1981 and 83, he was a lecturer in the Faculty of Law, University of Benin, and from 1997 – 2000. He joined the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies in 2000 where he served as the Director of Research, Director of Studies and completed his tenure as the Director-General in June, this year.

appointed Company Secretary/Legal Adviser of Taraku Mills Limited (Benue State Government Owned Integrated Vegetable Oil Processing Company). In 1997, he joined the services of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies as a Research Fellow I with special research interests in International Economic law, Energy, Environment and Infrastructure Law, International Criminal Justice, International Cooperation Mechanisms, Stolen Asset Recovery and Anti –corruption Measures.

RS Boma Ozobia (OON) is a Partner at Sterling Partnership, Nigeria. She was on the Board of Trustees of the Royal Commonwealth Society and served as President of the Commonwealth Lawyers Association 2011-2013, the first woman President in the over 50 year-history of this association of lawyers from 54 countries. She also served as the Chairwoman of the Association of Women Solicitors of England and Wales between 2005/2006. She is an experienced Arbitrator and an accredited Civil and Commercial Mediator. Ozobia’s experience in corporate commercial practice spans over twenty five years. She specialises in International Tax, Marine Insurance, Commercial Law, Structured Finance and Commercial Dispute Resolution. She was educated in England at King’s College, University of London where she obtained an LL.M in Maritime Law, and in Nigeria where she obtained an LL.B from Rivers State University of Science and Technology. She is admitted to practice law in Nigeria and in England and Wales.

HIEF Mike Abu Ozekhome (SAN) (OFR) hails from Iviukwe town in Etsako East

has branch offices in Lafia and Jos. He was born in Lafia, Nasarawa State on March 18, 1963, he obtained a Diploma in Law at the prestigious Ahmadu Bello University (A.B.U), Zaria between 1981 and 1983. He did his full LL.B degree between 1983 and 1986, and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1987 after his Law School training in Lagos. In pursuit of further knowledge he went back to the same A.B.U, Zaria for his master’s programme in Law where he bagged an LL.M Degree in 2004 and he is currently working on his Ph.d programme in Law in the same University.

HIEF Joseph-Kyari (J-K) Gadzama (SAN) (OFR) was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1986 and enrolled at the Supreme Court of Nigeria the same year. Appointed Notary Public in June 1996 and a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) in 1998. Gadzama’s professional experience started in 1986 as a Legal Trainee in the Attorney-General’s Chambers in Kano State. From there he became a Solicitor and Advocate

ASSAN Muhammed Liman (SAN) the Principal Partner of Liman, Liman & Co. a firm of Legal Practitioners with its Corporate Headquarters in Abuja. His Law Firm

ROF Peter Akper obtained his LL.B (Hons) and LL.M from the University of Jos in 1987 and 1998 respectively. He enrolled to practice as a Barrister and Solicitor (B.L) of the Supreme Court of Nigeria in 1988. He also holds the Degree of Master of Philosophy in Law (M. Phil) in 2005 and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) in Mining Law and Policy in 2007 from the Obafemi Awolowo University, IleIfe. Prof. Akper was in active private legal practice until 1992, when he was

RS. Stella Obiageli Ugboma (nee Obianwu) (OON) was called to the Nigerian Bar in June 1971. She worked as junior counsel with the firm of Impey & Coker (A partnership of British and Nigerian Lawyers) 1971 – 1976, Legal Adviser to the Nigerian Students Loans Board (1976 – 1979). She was the Assistant Director Legal Aid Council (1979 – 1982). Before she established her law firm, she is the Managing Counsel of Stella Ugboma & Associates established in September 1982. The firm’s area of practice includes oil and gas, telecoms, maritime and banking law. It also has an extensive practice in real property, general corporate practice and litigation She was appointed Notary Public for Nigeria in 1980.

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2014

LEGAL OPINION

Printers urge INEC to obey laws on printing regulation

HE Chartered Institute of Professional Printers of Nigeria (CIPPON) may sue the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over the violation of laws on printing of electoral materials. INEC is said to have voted about N6billion for the printing of ballot papers meant for the presidential and governorship election slated for February next year. The contract, it was learnt, would be awarded to American or European printing firms. It was reported that top INEC officials would visit the United States of America, Germany, Italy, and Ukraine to inspect elite printing companies which can handle the job, classified as ‘security documents’ by the commission. But CIPPON said patronising foreign firm does only lead to capital flight, which is contrary to existing laws, but INEC’s lack of trust in the country’s printers is untenable and illegal. The Desk Officer to CIPPON at the Ministry of Information, Mr Sunday Baba, urged the institute to sue INEC for allegedly violating the law. Baba, who represented Minister of Information Mr Labaran Maku, spoke at a printers’ seminar organised by CIPPON in Lagos, with the theme: Printing regulation – a vehicle for national development. “If it means going to court to seek interpretation of the Act, please do so to force INEC to look inwards,” he said. Baba said it is left for the printers’ in-

By Joseph Jibueze

stitute for fight for their right. “The fight is yours if you want to stand your ground. You’re like an orphan. If you keep quiet you will starve to death. “Nigeria belongs to al of us. Get a good lawyer. Sue INEC. Do whatever you have to do so that some of these billions will spill over to you,” Baba added. Section 7 (g) of the CIPPON Act 2007 empowers the institute to proffer advice to the federal and state governments on printing activities, while Section 7 (k) directs it to collate, process and disseminate printing data and information within and outside Nigeria. Section 23 (1) (b) says CIPPON shall ensure that no firm or partnership shall practice as printers in Nigeria unless registered by the council while Section 7 (i) mandates the institute to provide consultancy services to the public on printing. A former Chairman, House Committee on Judiciary, Mr Bala Ibn Na’Allah, represented by Mr Kenneth Ugwu, a lawyer, urged the police and other law enforcement agencies to help in the enforcement of the CIPPON Act. “Apart from the police, the judiciary is also an important player in this project. Our courts will need to apply to purposive interpretation approach (call it the mischief rule) to the enforcement of this law, i.e, by looking at the mischief (the situation) which the law was meant to address and giving the law the kind of interpretation which will achieve rather defeat that purpose.

“That approach is the growing trend in judicial interpretation today the world over and Nigeria cannot afford to be an exception. “This approach places more emphasis on the merits of the case as against unnecessary, sometimes ridiculous technicalities, which are meant to defeat rather than promote the cause of justice,” he said. CIPPON’s President/Chairman-incouncil Mr Wahab Aderemi Muhammed Lawal, said for the institute to provide advice to the government, it must be represented in its agencies. He said INEC has no reason to take printing jobs outside the country. “Printers in Nigeria are well-equipped. I see no reason jobs should be taken out. It is the same machines that are used abroad that we use in Nigeria. The institute can guarantee any licensed printer to handle printing of electoral materials,” Lawal said. On whether sensitive materials can be printed in Nigeria, Lawal said: “They’re just giving it a name to take these jobs out of Nigeria. What is ‘sensitive’ in electoral materials when we print cheque books, annual reports and accounts; we print all other confidential documents and certificates here. “We want the government to fully comply with this law. It means the institute must be represented in INEC, Universal Basic Education (UBE), National Population Commission (NPC) and other agencies where they use 70 to 80 printed materials.”

LAW AND PUBLIC POWER

with gabriel AMALU email:gabrielamalu1@yahoo.com For comments: 08033054939 (sms only)

Desecration of Ekiti State judiciary

HE anarchical conduct of some politicians and their thugs for two days last week, within the precincts of the High court of Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti state, is most reprehensible. Agreed that some politicians in Nigeria are not very different from street hooligans and bandits by their conduct, yet, until last Tuesday and Thursday I had thought that their peculiar madness will not extend to the hallowed grounds of the courts. But obviously nothing is sacred for these characters. To show that our country is not a lawless country, the Governor of Ekiti State, Mr. Kayode Fayemi and the President Goodluck Jonathan must exercise their constitutional responsibilities to defend law abiding citizens and officials of government, in their capacity as heads of the executive arms of government in the state and the federation, respectively. Also the governor-elect of Ekiti State, Mr. Ayodele Fayose, who has been fingered by Governor Fayemi, as allegedly being responsible for the mayhem that has led to dusk to dawn curfew in the state, after the murder of citizen Omolafe Aderiye, must do all in his powers to clear his name. Otherwise, his tenure as the next Governor would be tainted, even before it starts. Unfortunately for him, he has a huge task, if the reports that the hooligans descended on the high court officials, lawyers and the general public, following the ruling of Justice Isaac Ogunyemi, that his honourable court has the jurisdiction to determine whether Mr. Fayemi had the locus to participate in the last gubernatorial election, is true. To compound the governor-elect’s challenge, the second round of mayhem last Thursday, again took place the day the governor-elect visited the election petition Tribunal hearing the case instituted by the All Progressive Congress against his election on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party. Considering that Mr. Fayose has stridently denied the allegations, there is the need for a thorough investigation of those responsible for disrupting the peace and tranquility of Ekiti State, particularly her judiciary. Regrettably, with the security agencies allegedly compromised, and the state and federal authority, partisans in the crisis, such an enquiry will be a tall order. But regardless, it is in the interest of Ekiti people and our democracy that those responsible for assaulting High court Judges, Justices Akintayo and Adeyeye, within the confines of the High Court premises; and the murder of Mr. Aderiye are brought to speedy justice. For it is better imagined the consequences, if Judges henceforth determine their cases, in a manner to avoid being molested by interested parties.

Re: Rochas and local council aspirants

•From left: Lawal; Managing Director/CEO, Tripple Gee and Company Limited, Karim Giwa and Ugwu at the PHOTO: BIODUN ADEYEWA seminar.

Army, DSS, police chiefs sued over N6.5m ‘theft’ HE Federal High Court in Abuja has been asked to direct the Chief of Army Staff, Director of the Drectorate of Security Service (DSS) and the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to probe and identify members of a joint patrol team that allegedly robbed two businessmen of about N6.5million in Abuja on September 13. The request is contained in a fundamental rights enforcement application marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/676/2014 filed last Wednesday for the victims – Abubakar Musa and Ajube Kumshe – by their lawyer, Kalouma Umar. The applicants, who are seeking N15million damages against the respondents, also want the court to order the Director, SSS to refund the N6.5m allegedly stolen from them by the joint patrol team made of mainly of men of the SSS, the police and army. Respondents in the suit include the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Chief of Army Staff, Director, SSS, the IGP and Ebonith Hotel, Lugbe, Abuja. Musa, who described himself as a metallurgist, said he had travelled, with Kumshe on a car from their base in Jos to Abuja on September 12 to conduct some business transactions the next day. He said he withdrew the N6.5million from his account in the Suleja (Niger State) branch of Ecobank on September 12 for the business transactions.

From Eric Ikhilae, Abuja

He averred, in a supporting affidavit, that after withdrawing the money and visiting some of his police friends, they lodged in the Ebonith Hotel, Lugbe, Abuja preparatory to their business transactions the next day. Musa stated that about 1.30 am on September 13, “a joint team of security operatives comprising men of the Nigerian Army, the SSS and the Nigeria Police Force” stormed the hotel searched their rooms and confiscated the N6.5million he had withdrawn and kept with him for the next day’s business transactions. “They arrested us and took us out of the room together with the money to the reception of the 5th respondent (the hotel). They counted the money and confirmed the amount of the money as N6.5million. They took us to the Lugbe Police Station and detained us for three hours for interrogation, without informing us about the offence we committed,” Musa said. He further stated that they were released about five hours later, but that they changed their plans and decided to return to Jos. He said on their way back to Jos, their car was ambushed along KeffiAbuja Road by the same joint patrol team, led by one Sadiq. Musa stated that the security men later robbed them at gun point, taking away

the N6.5m kept in his car boot, N100,000 found in his pocket and N57,000 found with his co-traveller, Kumshe. “He (Sadiq) informed me that they were tracking all my phone calls and had put me on surveillance for long, and that there is no way I can escape from them. When I asked him (Sadiq) what offence I committed, he hit me with his pistol and ordered me to enter into a nearby bush,” Musa said. He added that, while the team was leading them into a nearby bus, they heard the noise of an approaching siren and hurriedly abandoned them, but went away with their (applicants’) money. Musa, who accused the 2nd to 3rd respondents (Army, SSS and Police authorities) of not responding to his letters seeking investigation of the case, said he could identify members of the patrol team, particularly Sadiq, if they were paraded before him. The applicants, who also want the court to order the 3rd respondent (SSS) to refund the N6.5million, are seeking to restrain the respondents from arresting and detaining them. They also urged the court to declare their detention at the Lugbe Police Station as illegal and an abuse of their fundamental rights. No date is set for the case’s hearing, and the respondents are yet to file their responses. —

HE case I made here, penultimate Tuesday, imploring Governor Rochas Okorocha of Imo State, to, as a matter of honour and constitutionalism conduct the long awaited local government election in the state, has elicited some interesting reactions. One of the victims, who reacted anonymously, sent me the time table for the aspirants, starting from 2011, up to this year. I also got some text messages tending to support the status quo. First the aspirant, who wrote: In 2011, the aspirants were asked to familiarise themselves with the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA)(then Governor Okorocha’s party) at the grassroots. In 2012, the aspirants were instructed to attend ICAPS/IMSU leadership training to be acquainted with legislative rudiments and leadership for 14 weeks. They were given certificates. Last year, the aspirants to the position of Chairmen were asked to pay N100,000, under Governor Okorocha’s new party, the All Progressive Congress (APC). This year, the same aspirants were asked to pay N50,000, for intent form, N10,000 to Local Government Party secretariat and N5,000 to state secretariat for administrative services. Again this year, they were asked to tour the communities within the local government under context, to solicit for votes for mock-election, mobilise membership for the APC and sensitise electorate to come out en mass to register for Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) permanent voters’ card when it starts. The government of Imo State slated September 1, for the mock-election, but the election never held. The mock-election was designated as a prelude to party primary election to determine the party’s candidates. According to the aspirant, as at the time he sent the timetable, which in my earlier piece, I had likened to a journey to nowhere, akin to what in local parlance amounts to entering a ‘one chance vehicle’; there is no date for local government election in Imo State.

The other interesting reaction by text, read: I thank you immensely for your article on the above subject matter. First of all, I will linked (like) you to know that Local Government in Imo State before the coming of Rochas were conduits of siphoning money that belong to the people. None of this councils executed meaningful projects like what we see in southwest part of this country. Funds for local governments were like personal estates, none of the chairmen live within the local government. All of them live expensively in Owerri, moving around with armed policemen as if they are something else. They only appear in LG once it is time to share allocations. There is a local government (LG) headed by a woman. I make bold to say that the husband of this woman was a Senator for good 16 years, with nothing to show for it, yet when allocation is received in LG, it is shared in their bedroom and when he travels everybody must wait until he comes back to base before anything can be done. So, in as much as we want LG elections to be held, we must first of all clean up the system and be ready for it. Uzoka 08057875094

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2014

LAW REPORT IN THE COURT OF APPEAL IN THE ENUGU JUDICIAL DIVISION HOLDEN AT ENUGU ON FRIDAY, THE 5TH DAY OF SEPTEMBER, 2014 BEFORE THEIR LORDSHIPS EMMANUEL AKOMAYE AGIM, J.C.A. SAIDU TANKO HUSSAINI, J.C.A. MISITURA O. BOLAJI-YUSUFF, J.C.A.

Open ballot system on trial at Appeal Court home, privacy of one’s communication, privacy in private family life and matters incidental thereto.” According to Learned Counsel, this interpretation by the trial Court is over restrictive and dry, and that the fact that the Constitution did not expressly mention the right to privacy while casting vote in an election does not mean that the right to privacy provided for in Section 37 of the 1999 Constitution does not extend to privacy while casting vote in an election. Learned Counsel for the Appellant finally submitted that compelling people to vote by queuing behind the candidate of their choice is archaic, primitive and risky, that it is notewor•Appeal Court President, Justice Zainab thy that this is being practiced only in Bulkachuwa Ebonyi State, that malife and other incidentals thereto” jority of the voters who do not want without seeing right to privacy to vote openly, stay away from votwhile voting at an election as being ing and that the 1st Respondent unless judicially restrained, will conincidental thereto. The Court adopted the issues as tinue to use this method. The Learned Attorney General for formulated by the Appellant in the the 1st, 2nd and 3rd Respondents determination of the appeal. The central argument of Learned argued relying on the decisions in Counsel for the Appellant in respect UNILORIN VS. OLUWADARE of the case brought by the Appel- (2006) 27 NSCQR 18; (2006) LPELRlant is that, compelling an indi- 3417(SC), AMALE VS. SOKOTO vidual to disclose who he/she votes LOCAL GOVERNMENT (2012) 492 for in an election, by queuing pub- NSCQR 1271; (2012) LPELRlicly behind the person, violates the 7842(SC), and ABDULHAMID VS. individual’s right to privacy under AKAR (2006) ALL FWLR (PT 324) Section 37 of the 1999 Constitution 1191 AT 1209 that the rights that can and also exposes him or her to the be enforced via the Fundamental danger of being attacked by politi- Rights Enforcement Procedure cal thugs and that it was this situa- Rules must be the rights contained tion that led to the deaths and de- in Chapter IV of the Constitution structions that characterized the PDP and that an application can be primaries in Ebonyi State that was brought under those Rules only conducted via open ballot system, where the principal claim is one for as those who saw that they were los- the enforcement of the fundamening caused confusion with ensuring tal rights in the said Chapter IV of shootings leading to death and de- the Constitution and not where it structions. Learned Counsel further is incidental or ancillary to a right argued that the trial Court was not enforceable by those Rules. He wrong to have held that the then submitted that an application Appellant’s complain does not brought under the Fundamental come within the ambit of Section 37 Right Enforcement Procedure of the 1999 Constitution as the right Rules to enforce a right not conto privacy in that section contem- tained in Chapter IV of the Constiplates only “right to privacy at tution is not initiated in accor-

dance with the due process of law. The Learned Attorney General then submitted that the Appellant’s main grouse is against the mode of voting in the 2013 Ebonyi Local Government Elections, that the other complains are ancillary to the challenge of the validity of Section 5(1) of the Ebonyi State Independent Electoral Law and that he is unable to see where Section 5 (1) of the said Law which provides for mode of voting is inconsistent with Section 37 of the Constitution. The Learned Attorney General further argued that the right to vote and the mode of voting in secret is not a fundamental right provided in Chapter IV of the Constitution. In determining the appeal, the Court interpreted the phrase “privacy of citizens” generally, liberally, and expansively to include privacy of citizens’ body, life, person, thought, belief, conscience, feelings, views, decisions (including his plans and choices), desires, health, relationships, character, material possessions, family life, activities et cetera. Therefore the Court held that privacy of the choice of a candidate and the privacy of voting for that candidate constitute part of “privacy” as a citizen. The Court held that the Appellant was entitled to the privacy of his decision to vote for a particular candidate, his choice of that candidate and his casting his vote for that candidate. Therefore requiring or compelling him to vote openly in the public watch and knowledge by queuing in front of the poster carrying the portrait of the candidate he has decided to vote for intrudes into, interferes with, and invades the privacy of his said decision, choice and voting, completely removing that privacy, therefore amounting to a clear violation of his fundamental right to the privacy of a citizen guaranteed him and protected by Section 37 of the 1999 Constitution. The Court further held that Section 5 (1) of and paragraph 21 (2) to (5) of the 1st schedule of the Ebonyi State Electoral (Amendment) and Related Matters Law 2010 which provide for voting by open ballot system by requiring a voter to vote for a candidate by queuing in front of the poster bearing the portrait of the said candidate in the full public view, deprives the Appellant the right to privacy of his decision to vote for a candidate and his vote for that candidate and is therefore inconsistent with Section 37 of the 1999 Constitution. In the light of the foregoing, the Court held that Section 5 (1) and paragraph 21 (2), (3), (4) and (5) of the 1st schedule to the Ebonyi State Electoral (Amendment) Law 2010 and all provisions therein providing for voting by open ballot are void ab initio for being inconsistent with Section 37 of the 1999 Constitution and for not complying with Section 45 (1) of the same Constitution. On the whole, the Court held that the appeal succeeds and it was allowed. The part of the ruling of the Federal High Court sitting at Abakaliki, per M.A. Oyetenu J. in suit No.FHC/AI/CS/38/2013 delivered on 20th September, 2013 upholding the 1st, 2nd and 3rd Respondents’ preliminary objection and dismissing the Appellant’s suit was set aside.

• From left: Former Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Treasurer Dr Ogugua Ikpeze; former NBA General Secretary Ibrahim Eddy Mark; former NBA presidents Chief T. J. Okpoko (SAN) and Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN) at a dinner organised by NBA President Augustine Alegeh (SAN) for new Senior Advocates in Abuja.

Edited by LawPavilion LawPavilion Citation: (2014) LPELR-23682(CA)

CA/E/510/2013 (2014) LPELR-23682(CA) BETWEEN HON. PETER NWALI ....………………………..….… APPELLANT AND EBONYI STATE INDEPENDENT ELECTORAL COMMISSION (EBSIEC) & ORS ……………….….... RESPONDENTS LEAD JUDGMENT DELIVERED BY EMMANUEL AKOMAYE AGIM, J.C.A.

N August 28, 2013, the Appellant as Applicant by an originating motion on notice commenced a suit in the Federal High Court at Abakaliki against the Respondents applying for the enforcement of his fundamental right to privacy and praying for the following reliefs amongst others: (a) a declaration that the applicant and other voters in Ebonyi State are entitled to the privacy of who they vote for in an election as guaranteed by section 37 of the 1999 constitution of Nigeria (as altered); (b) a declaration that the open ballot system of voting, that is queuing behind the candidate of your choice in the full glare of everybody constitutes a violation of the right of the applicant and other voters to the privacy of who they vote for in an election as guaranteed by section 37 of the 1999 constitution of Nigeria (as altered); (c) a declaration that Section 5 (1) of Ebonyi State Electoral (Amendment) and Other Related Matters Law No. 005 of 2010 violates the rights of the applicant and other voters to the privacy of who they vote for in an election as guaranteed by Section 37 of the Constitution of Nigeria, 1999 (as altered) and as such, ineffectual; (d) a declaration that Section 5 (1) of Ebonyi State Electoral (Amendment) and Other Related Matters Law No. 005 of 2010 is inconsistent with section 52 (1) of Electoral Act, 2010 (as amended) and, as such, null and void; (e) an order of perpetual injunction restraining the 1st respondent from using open ballot system of voting to conduct the Local Government Election slated for the 28th September, 2013 or any other Local Government Election. The 1st, 2nd and 3rd Respondents

filed a notice of preliminary objection to the application along with a written argument of same. They also filed a counter-affidavit in opposition of the application and a written argument opposing the application. The Appellant filed an affidavit in reaction to the preliminary objection of the 1st 2nd and 3rd Respondents and a written argument of same. On the 20th September, 2013, the trial Court delivered its ruling upholding the preliminary objection and stating that it will not go into the substantive motion having upheld the said objection. It dismissed the suit. Dissatisfied with this ruling, the Applicant filed an appeal at the Court of Appeal against the part of the ruling dismissing the application for not falling within the purview of Section 37 of the 1999 Constitution. The Appellant’s brief of argument raised the following issues for determination: Whether the court below was right when it held that the complaint of the applicant does not fall within the contemplation of Fundamental Rights and cannot be enforced through the Fundamental Rights Enforcement Procedure Whether the court below was right when it failed to apply the definitions of privacy and rights to privacy as given by Black’s Law Dictionary, 8th Edition and Supreme Court in the case of Medical and Dental Practitioner’s Disciplinary Tribunal V Dr John E. N. Okonkwo (2001) 5 NSCQR; 650 at 683 -685. Whether the court below was right when it held that the right to privacy contemplates only of “right to privacy at home, privacy of one’s communications, privacy in family

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2014

TUESDAY SEPTEM BER 30, 2014

POLITICS THE NATION

E-mail:- politics@thenationonlineng.net

DELTA POLITICS There is division in the Delta State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over the agitation for power shift to the North Senatorial District. An ethnic group, Urhobo, is spearheading the clamour for zoning. But, other ethnic groups are agitating for primaries for governorship aspirants from the three districts. Correspondent POLYCARP OROSEVWOTU writes on the clash of interests.

2015: Power shift agitations divide Delta PDP T

HE agitation for power shift to the Delta North Senatorial District started in 2011, shortly after Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan begun his second term in office. In the last three and half years, politicians from the zone have intensified the campaign for zone, based on the principles of equity, fairness and justice. However, other zones have been indifferent to the agitations. Stakeholders from Central and South districts are of the view that the North is a permanent beneficiary of the creation of the state because it hosts the state capital. Besides, they point out that many Deltas from the North had benefitted from major appointments at state and federal levels. The three districts are mounting pressures on the governor, but for different reasons. Urhobos from the North have urged him to support the agitation for power shift. But, the other zones are insisting on an-all inclusive approach, saying that aspirants from the three zones should compete for the slot at the primaries. Uduaghan is said to be reflecting and brainstorming on these antagonistic demands by the different ethnic groups. Few months ago, there were speculations that the governor was projecting some aspirants as his likely successor. But, a source said, they were dropped, following objections by some influential leaders. Aspirants from the zone include former Secretary to Government Chief Ovie Omo-Agege, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, Victor Ochei and Chief Tony Obuh. Following his declaration of interest, eyes have been on Obuh, the retired Permanent Secretary. His campaign train has rolled into the three districts. Prominent associates of the governor, including the Speaker of House of Assembly, Chief Ovuozorie Macaulay, Chief Ayiri Emami, the Majority Leader, Hon. Monday Igbuya, Majority leader, and Jaro Egbo, have been selling him to party chieftains. Recently, the Ijaw national Leader, Senator Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, also sent a strong message to the governor. He Uduaghan cannot single handedly shape the succession process. When he hosted some aspirants in Kiagbodo, Burutu local government area, he said the next governor will be the product of all stakeholders. However, events since then have taken a new dimension. At Uvwie, the home of the PDP chieftain, Hon. Henry Baro, Chief Imami disclosed that the Obuh is the choice of the governor. The legislator from Sapele Constituency, Hon. Monday Igbuya, and many chieftains were present there. Many PDP leaders were taken aback by the disclosure, which has not been confirmed or denied by the governor. To them, Uduaghan has started to project a puppet or a stooge as his suc-

•Uduaghan

•Omo-Agege

cessor, without consultations with the leaders of diverse ethnic nationalities. They also frowned at the attempt to establish the Ibori/Uduaghan dynasty, warning that the implication is that only few leaders would be foisting their agenda on the state. Sources said that the governor may have settled for Obuh, following a sober reflection. “He is interested in continuity of his people-oriented programmes and policies. He believes in the competence of Obuh. But, it cannot be said that he has totally made up his mind. I don’t think he can anoint a successor without carrying the leaders along,” he added. Since the Third Republic, elections in Delta State have

•Clark

•Wordu

been a fierce battle. Before Chief Felix Ibru, Chief James Ibori and Uduaghan could breast the tape, there were titanic struggles. Also, the slot had always been competed for by the three zones, with the ruling parties providing a level playing field for aspirants. In the Third Republic, under the proscribed Social Democratic Party (SDP), Ibru from the Central and Chief Austin Egbo from the North contested at the primaries. There was no agitation for zoning. Also, Ibori contested in 1999, Chief Obielu from the North and Dr Mike Chigue from Delta South equally contested with him. In 2011, Uduaghan from the South, Okowa from the North, OmoAgege of the Central and others contested with him.

•Okowa

•Obuh

According to politicians from the South and Central, zoning has never shaped the selection process in the PDP, adding that it has always been a battle for the survival of the fittest. But,the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) disagreed with stakeholders from the two zones. Politicians from the North and Central have maintained that the North, particularly Anioma, is not marginalised. Apart from hosting the state capital, the North has produced big wigs who are beneficiary of major appointments. They include Ambassador Joy Ogwu, the Nigeria Ambassador to the United Nations, Prof. Sylvester Monye, the Special Adviser to Mr. President on Performance, Monitoring and Evaluation, Mrs. Ngozi Olejeme, the National Social

‘There is agitation for zoning. There is also another agitation against zoning. The PDP has structures. We have elders. We have a national leadership. Already, it can be said that crisis is brewing. But, the there will be a solution, if we are ready to embrace truth, fair play, reconciliation and justice. Times are changing and we should be sensitive’

Insurance Trust Fund Chairman, and Mr. Peter Idabor, the Director-General of the National Oil Spill, Detection and Response Agency. Others are Prof. Epiphany Azinge, Director-General of the Institute of Advanced Legal Studies, Dr. Cairo Ojuogbo, Chairman, Export and Processing Zone, Calabar, Dr. Eugine Juwah, Executive Vice Chairman/CEO Nigeria Communication Commission, Dr. (Mrs.) Esther Uduahi, Chairman of the Board of National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-Formal Education, Engr. Gabriel Amuchi, Managing Director of the Federal Roads Maintainers Agency (FERMA), Mrs. Mariam Ali, Special Assistant to the President on Inter-Government Relation, Mr. Godwin Emefiele, Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and Dr. (Mrs.) Ngozi Okonjo Iwela, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy. However, UPU said argued that the North deserved the slot as compensation for its bloc vote for President Goodluck Jonathan. In 2011, the president garnered over 800,000 votes from the area. Besides, the group pointed out that the Urhobo from the North have not produced the governor since 1999. Ibori is from the Central and Uduaghan is from the South. According to observers, if the North succeeds in its agitation for power shift, it may not be able to prevent the imposition of the candidate for next year’s election. The endorsement of Obuh may not go down well with other aspirants, including Okowa, Ochei, Dr. Festus Okubor, Prof Sylvester Monye, Hon. Elumelu, Chief Ubielum, and Chief Peter Okocha. A source said that these aggrieved aspirants are not indifferent to the power of the governor to install a successor. But, they may gang up against him at the primaries and attempt to frustrate his ambition. For example, Okowa believes that he should be the next candidate because he was prevailed upon by Ibori to step down for Uduaghan in 2007. At the weekend, some party chieftains warned against imposition, adding that it may create a crack on the wall. “We now have an opposition party in Delta State and, if we don’t handle our primaries well, the APC is there. We should put our house in order.” Another chieftain said: “There is agitation for zoning. There is also another agitation against zoning. The PDP has structures. We have elders. We have a national leadership. Already, it can be said that crisis is brewing. But, the there will be a solution, if we are ready to embrace truth, fair play, reconciliation and justice. Times are changing and we should be sensitive.”

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2014

NEWS

Norms for an independent prosecutor in the Fight Against Corruption: Some reflections (Being the text of a paper delivered by Femi Falana (SAN) at a seminar organized for EFCC prosecutors by the Justice Research Institute at Abuja from September 24-26, 2014) Introduction

ORRUPTION manifests itself in numerous and varied ways. It could be petty or incidental, involving small scale embezzlement, misappropriation, bribes, favouritism or discrimination. Corruption can also be more systematic and include bribes and kickbacks by private and public actors, large-scale embezzlement and misappropriation of funds and economic privileges accorded to special interests. Corruption and impunity of perpetrators flourish in an environment of weak institutions, inadequate checks and balances on the authority of the executive branch, patronage systems to fill government posts, underdeveloped civil service and career systems, uncertainty as to the proper role of, and inter-relationships among, institutions, lack of institutional anti-corruption reforms. The causes of corruption are numerous and inter-related. They consist primarily of a socio-economic system that is built on ruthless exploitation and diversion of public wealth. The second cause is the illegal action of a few individuals and their insatiable ambition for political and economic power in clear and direct detriment of the common good. Experience in Nigeria has shown how corruption can hinder economic growth, undermine democratic processes and seriously reduce opportunities to improve the quality of life for the most vulnerable sectors of the population.

International Guidelines for prosecution of corruption cases Therefore, uprooting the systemic, entrenched official corruption that has plagued the country for many years requires a long-term, multifaceted strategy, but a key component of this approach must be an effective criminal prosecution. The main international and regional legally binding treaties applicable to Nigeria on the role of prosecutors in criminal justice system and in the fight against corruption include: the United Nations International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights; the United Nations Convention Against Corruption; the African Union Convention on Preventing and Combating Corruption and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.There is also “soft law” such as the United Nations Guidelines on the Role of Prosecutors. According to Article 36 of UN Convention against Corruption, “Each State Party shall, in accordance with the fundamental principles of its legal system, ensure the existence of a body or bodies or persons specialized in combating corruption through law enforcement. States are essentially required under the above cited international and regional standards to take appropriate measures to ensure that public prosecutors are able to perform their professional duties and responsibilities without unjustified interference or unjustified exposure to civil penal or other liability. “Unjustified interference” means interference in cases other than those provided for in the law, and from any other authority, whether executive or legislative, and from economic forces and local political authorities. An overarching principle concerning the role of prosecutors in the criminal justice system is the need for the institutions of law enforcement to be guided by a legal and policy framework that would clearly define the powers and obligations of different institutions. According to the United Nations Guidelines on the Role of Prosecutors in the performance of their duties, prosecutors shall “carry out their duties impartially and avoid all political, social, religious, racial, cultural, sexual or any other kind of discrimination”. The chief role of any prosecutor in the fight against corruption must be to defend the public interest through the criminal justice system. Given the important role the prosecutor plays in the fight against corruption, it is trite that prosecution agencies must be fully independent. Thus, in addition to budgetary independence, the decision whether to prosecute or not should be for the prosecution office alone and not for the executive or the legislature. Investigations and prosecutions which yield prompt and tangible results, resulting in attention-grabbing headlines and the potential for deterrence and galvanizing the public can have a broad and immediate impact on society that no administrative reform plan can match. While broad structural measures addressing the root causes of corruption must be the core of sustainable reform, the dayto- day presence and pressure of credible, effective criminal law enforcement is what stimulates and sustains the momentum of an anti-corruption campaign. Criminal convictions make the most visible statement that corruption will not be tolerated. Effective law enforcement and prosecution agencies can supply short-term political capital necessary to sustain public support for long-term corruption reduction actions, while a failure to deliver can sap public support, allowing anti-corruption campaigns to atrophy. The creation of an anti-corruption agency is a politically attractive measure, an achievement that a government can cite as a tangible step in furthering an anticorruption agenda. But the prototype of the independent anti-corruption agency also responds to the real need in many developing countries to isolate corruption reform implementation from government bureaucracies that are themselves riddled with corruption, including law enforcement and the judiciary, and to put substantial financial and dedicated professional commitment behind an objective that has before received only lip service. Certainly, both of these circumstances exist in Nigeria. Cor-

ruption pervades the police and generally the judiciary. When critical institutions like the police and the judiciary are perceived to be corrupt, it is very difficult to achieve the sort of honest and efficient law enforcement efforts necessary to punish perpetrators, deter future offenders, and change the culture of corruption.As noted, effective criminal law enforcement is one essential element in a successful anti-corruption campaign. But as it has been well illustrated by the Asian- Pacific examples of Hong Kong’s Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) and Singapore’s Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB), this has to be complemented by the existence of an independent and impartial prosecutor. The Asia-Pacific examples also show that the law enforcement agencies are a crucial pillar of good governance and upon which a successful and sustained fight against corruption depends. A strong, independent and committed prosecutor going after corrupt high-level individuals, whether in government or business increases the trust of ordinary people in the system and consequently their support in the fight against corruption. But the establishment of anti-corruption agencies should not be viewed as the long-term solution to problems with anticorruption enforcement. Establishing and maintaining the rule of law over the long term is dependent upon a functioning and respected justice system. The traditional police and prosecution service should be equipped with appropriate powers to investigate and prosecute high level official corruption, and prosecutor agencies should be made more professional productive, transparent, and effective. It is obvious that prosecution agencies that depend on the executive will have less incentives to prosecute corruption by high-level government members (or their families and friends), which in turn increases their incentives to engage in more corruption. To have a deterrent effect, law enforcement systems must increase the probability of getting caught and being punished, which depends on the corrupt act being 1) detected, 2) prosecuted, and 3) punished in a court of law. In sum, law enforcement has an important preventive effect: it may even be considered a prerequisite for prevention, in that it points at specific corruption problems, thus helping create the necessary awareness. Without the effective prosecution of high-level corruption, the chances of success of specific prevention measures may be fairly slim. Demonstrating success in detecting and prosecuting corruption crimes will be necessary to stave off apathy and cynicism and maintain the political will and patience necessary to sustain more long-term changes. A police corps, prosecutor’s office, and judiciary reasonably free from corruption are prerequisites for obtaining criminal convictions that can gain public respect. However, without a strong leadership and commitment at the highest level of political authorities, prosecution agencies can’t achieve much. In the United Kingdom, the Code of Conduct for Prosecutions is based on the independence of prosecutors to handle criminal cases without interference. Accordingly, the prosecution of cases is based on whether there is sufficient evidence against the defendant and whether it is the public interest to bring a case to court. In some countries the investigation of criminal cases is superintended by the office of the Attorney-General or the Director of Public Prosecution. Having ratified the United Nations Convention Against Corruption by Nigeria, the Federal Government is under an obligation to guarantee the independence of prosecutors.

Prosecution of corruption cases in Nigeria The Attorney-General of the Federation is empowered to institute and undertake criminal proceedings against any person before any court of law in Nigeria in respect of any offence under an Act of the National Assembly; to take over and continue or discontinue any criminal proceedings that may have been instituted by any other authority or person and to discontinue at any stage before judgment is delivered any such criminal proceedings. However, in exercising the aforesaid powers the Attorney-General shall have regard to “the public interest, the interest of justice and the need to prevent abuse of legal process”. In the same vein, it is the constitutional responsibility of the attorneys-general of the states of the federation to prosecute persons who contravene the penal laws enacted by the

‘The explanation by CAN that the jet was leased to another company is an admission of the breach of the law. A jet registered for the facilitation of evangelism cannot be leased to another company for commercial purposes as churches are registered under part C of the Company and Allied Matters Act as non-profit making organisations’

•Falana, SAN

Houses of assembly of such states. Instead of exercising their prosecutorial powers many state attorneys-general have given fiats to the anti-graft agencies to prosecute ex-governors and other persons indicted for looting the treasury of state governments. In fact, no form of assistance is rendered by the directors of prosecution to the anti-graft agencies in the recovery of public funds stolen from state and local governments. Notwithstanding the enormous powers of the AttorneyGeneral over the prosecution of federal offences, the prosecution units of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission and Economic and Financial Crimes Commission are at liberty to institute criminal proceedings without the consent or authority of any authority. This submission is anchored on the case of Comptroller-General, Nigerian Prisons Service v. Dr. Femi Adekanye & Ors. Where the Supreme Court held: “It is clear from the provisions of Section 160 of the 1979 Constitution that the AttorneyGeneral’s powers of public prosecution is not exclusive; the ‘any other authority or person’ in subsection (1) can institute and undertake criminal proceedings. The Central Bank of Nigeria and Nigerian Deposit Insurance Corporation are also authorities that can institute criminal proceedings under Failed Banks (Recovery of Debts) and Financial Malpractices in Banks Decree, 1994. (See section 24 thereof). The Attorney-General can institute and undertake criminal proceedings in any court in Nigeria, other than a court martial in respect of any offence and can take over or discontinue any such proceedings instituted by any other authority or person.” Based on section 174(1) of the 1999 Constitution and the decision of the Supreme Court in Comptroller-General, Nigeria Prison Service v. Adekanya (supra) it is submitted that the anti-graft agencies can undertake and institute criminal proceedings provided that the Attorney-General of the Federation can take over and continue or discontinue them in the public interest. In the prosecution of economic and financial crimes including corruption the anti-graft agencies are not subject to the control or interference from the Executive. Prosecutors should ensure that the criminal justice system is not hijacked by the government and powerful defendants. The recent discontinuance of the corruption case brought against Mr. Mohammed Abacha by the Attorney General of the Federation, Mr. Mohammed Adoke, SAN was criticized by the Transparency International. In justifying his action, the Justice Minister stated that the withdrawal was in the public interest as it was designed to facilitate the repatriation of hundreds of millions of dollars stolen by the late military head of state, General Sani Abacha but tied down in litigation in many countries. No doubt, Nigeria is ahead of other nations in the recovery of such stolen wealth. It is, however, hoped that the federal government will account for the over $3 billion dollars recovered so far from the loot. A couple of days ago, the EFCC discontinued a N6 billion corruption case pending at the federal high court agsinst a former minister. Although no reason was adduced for the withdrawal, the case was accordingly struck out. It is however not certain if the EFCC could withdraw a part heard criminal case without presenting to the trial court a nolle prosequi signed by the Attorney-General of the Federation. In the prosecution of corruption cases prosecutors should ensure that preliminary objections are speedily deal with by trial courts and prevent delay of cases through motions for stay of proceedings filed by accused persons. Section 40 of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission Act has prohibited the suspension of the trial of cases on the basis of interlocutory appeals filed by defendants. The constitutional validity of the provision has been upheld by the Court of Appeal. In order to fast track the hearing of cases pertaining to offences of terrorism, rape, kidnapping, corruption, money laundering and human trafficking and appeal arising there from the Supreme Court, Court of Appeal and the Federal High Court have issued Practice Directions to ensure. Curiously, counsel representing the anti-graft agencies have not taken advantage of the said Practice Directions by praying the courts to accord priority to corruption cases. •To be continued

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2014

IN THE HIGH COURT OF LAGOS STATE OF NIGERIA PROBATE REGISTRY, LAGOS DIVISION WHEREAS the person whose names are set-out in the first Column under died intestate on the date and place stated in the said Column. AND WHEREAS the person or persons whose names and addresses and relationship (if any) to the deceased are set out in the second Column here have applied to the High Court of Lagos State for a Grant of Letter of Administration of the Real and Personal Properties of the deceased. NOTICE IS HEREBY given that Letters of Administration will be granted to such persons unless a NOTICE TO PROHIBIT THE GRANT is filed in the registry within (14) days from the date hereof. S/N NAMES OF THE DECEASED PERSON: 1. Giwa Aliyu . Late of 17A, Akerele Extension Shita, Surulere, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 2nd day of May, 2009. 2. Maliki Erebi. Late of 12, Baba Ige Compound, Abule-Ado, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 18th day of February, 2007. 3. Mrs. Victoria Chizurum Ulokwe. Late of 32, Church Street, Ejigbo, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 6th day of May, 2012. 4. Mr. Ladipo Michael Olabisi. Late of 5446 Queen Eleanor Lane, Jackson Ms 39209. Who died intestate on the 14th day of March, 2014. 5. Mr. Jones Obafemi Obadiah of 13, Muritala Muhammed Way, Ebute-Metta, Lagos. Who died intestate in the 12th day of July, 2012. 6. Ezekiel Ifeanyi Ugbade otherwise known as Ifeanyi . Late of Gbenopo Primary School, Ajah Badagry. Who died intestate on the 10th day of December, 2007. 7. Mr. James Alice Adeseun. Late of Arigbawonwo, Mare Ogun State. Who died intestate on the 23rd day of June, 2013. 8. Irabor Peter Ogbemudia . Late of Falomo Police Barrack, Ikoyi Lagos. Who died intestate on the 2nd day of April, 2007. 9. Okuwobi Ezekiel Olutayo. Late of 34, Odogbolu Street, Ketu, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 21st day of August, 2007. 10. Alebiosu Muibat. Late of 12, Rabiatu Thompson Street, Surulere, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 20th day of May, 2011. 11. Mr. Brens Osuyi otherwise known as Osuyi Brens. Late of 16, Onatamere Close, Satellite Town , Lagos. Who died intestate on the 2nd day of January, 2007. 12. Mr. Joseph Hunsajoh. Late of 52, Makoko Road, Yaba, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 15th day of February, 2014. 13. Wale Jerry Davwam otherwise known as Jeremiah Davwan. Late of Inspector Quarters, No. 4, Room 6, Lagos Bar-beach, Police Barracks, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 6th day of October, 2008. 14. Aderibigbe Elizabeth Sena. Late of No. 7, Gbolagade Balogun Street, Obadore, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 22nd day of September, 2013 at Lagos. 15. Miss Ottun Oyindasola. Late of Plot 13, Bale Idowu Dabiri Street, Ajah, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 22nd day of April, 2014. 16. Mr. Ayodeji Odunlami otherwise known as Mr. Odunlami Ayodeji Gbolahan. Late of No. 28, Akintan Street, Off Ijaiye Road, Ogba Ikeja, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 8th day of February, 2014 at Lagos. 17. Pa. Sogbesan Samuel Modupe. Late of No. 1, Daddy Alaja Street, Lagos Island, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 21st day of December, 2011. 18. Adobi Mojekwu. Late of 29, Eric Moore Close, Surulere, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 3rd day of June, 2012 at Lagos. 19. Jimoh Orioye. Late of No. 46, Adedeji Street, Itire Surulere, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 10th day of January, 2014 at Lagos. 20. Alhaja Sidikat Olasunbo Ayoka Anibaba. Late of Road, 507, House 21, V.G.C. Ajah, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 7th day of June, 2011 at Lagos. 21. Alatise Babtunde Paul. Late of No. 6, Akintola Street, Maryland, Badore, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 8th day of May, 2013 at Lagos. 22. Odidi Friday Enavowho otherwise known as Odidi Friday Samuel. Late of No. 45A, Olayinka Street, Ajegunle, Apapa Lagos. Who died intestate on the 8th day of November, 2013 at Lagos. 23. Nkemdilim Anayo otherwise known as Nkemdilim Philomena Chinakwe. Late of 232, Ojo Road, Ajegunle, Apapa Lagos. Who died intestate on the 6th day of December, 2013 at Lagos. 24. Mr. Micheal Djukpen. Late of No. 58, Iyara Warri, Delta State. Who died intestate on the 16th day of January, 2012 at Lagos. 25. Mr. Ihiere Ezenwa Ngozi otherwise known as Ihiere. Late of 6, Miracle Close, Igboelerin Road, Okokomaiko. Who died intestate on the 14th day of June, 2014. 26. Mrs. Familusi Oluwakemi otherwise known as Familusi Olukemi and Fabunmi Olukemi Omobolanle. Late of 49, Adebayo Makolu Street, Anthony Village, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 1st day of May, 2012. 27. Mrs. Morenike Iyabode Solomon. Late of 112, Itire Road, Obele Oniwala, Surulere, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 6th day of December, 2013. 28. Mr. Chukwuma Paul Ojeli. Late of Ase Imonite , River State. Who died intestate on the 11th day of September, 2012. 29. Mrs. Victoria Oyegunle. Late of 49, Owodunni Street, Onipanu. Who died intestate on the 24th day of October, 2010. 30. Francis Dadan Mgbeken. Late of 41, Akogun Street, Olodi Apapa, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 24th day of June, 2012. 31. Odewoye Stephen Ayodele. Late of 52, Buhari Street, Mushin, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 23rd day of May, 2013. 32. Omoseye Pullen otherwise known as Pullen Omoseye. Late of Block 4, Flat 22, Macarthy Barracks, Onikan, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 8th day of August, 2013. 33. Rasheed Atanda otherwise known as Abdul Rasheed Atanda. Late of 3, Oladeinde Street, Shomolu, agos. Who died intestate on the 23rd day of November, 2012. 34. Johnson Oluwakemi. Late of Plot 8, Block G, Micheal Falode Felele Road, Ibadan. Who died intestate on the 18th day of April, 2012. 35. Adewusi Apena David Kolawole. Late of 12, Glover Street, Ebute-metta, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 29th day of October, 2004. 36. Alhaji Bashiru Adisa Savage. Late of 25A, Adekanbi Street, ketu, Mile 12, Lagos. 37. Musa Yahaya. Late of Adeno Compound, Agbashi Doma, L.G.C. Nassarawa State. Who died intestate on the 20th day of October, 2011. 38. Mr. Olalekan Adenle Akande. Late of 8, Akande -Ede Street, Ifo. Who died intestate on the 11th day of September, 2009. 39. Damudi Momoh. Late of No. 31/35, Cardoso Street, Awodi Ora, Ajegunle, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 30th day of June 2013. 40. Sanni Ogunlola Saliu. Late of 170, Muritala Muhammed Way, Yaba, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 12th day of May, 1980. 41. Ebong James Wisdow otherwise known as Ms. Ebong James Wisdom. Late of 8, John Akinjide Street, Ikeja. Who died intestate on the 14th day of September, 2012. 42. James Oladipupo Onafujabi. Late of 12, Olanrewaju Street, Abule-Okuta, Bariga , Lagos. Who died intestate on the 17th day of February, 2008. 43. Sunday Kigbu. Late of Camp 65, Batallion, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 7th day of August, 2013. 44. Pastor Shobowale Michael Ajani. Late of No. 18, Palm View Estate, Phase 11, New Oko-Oba, Agege, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 17th day of February, 2013. 45. Mrs. Adenike Adekoya. Late of No. 33, Kayode Taiwo Street, Ogudu G.R.A, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 2nd day of August, 2013. 46. Johnson Oladipo. Late of 67, Coker Road, Ilupeju, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 8th day of March, 2014. 47. Adisa Oladele otherwise known as Oladele Lukman Adisa. Late of Mobil, Lekki Express, Victoria Island, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 11th day of May, 2013. 48. Peregrino Napoleon Abiodun. Late of 16, Oyerokun Road, Surulere, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 10th day of September, 1985. 49. Anyasi Samson. Late of 8, Ijegun Street, Alapere ketu, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 7th day of October, 2013. 50. Osundiya Bamidele Ayodeji. Late of 10, Moriah Crescent, Manor Gardens, Ajah, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 1st day of December, 2010. 51. Cardoso Samiat Olayide otherwise known as Agoro Olaide Samiat. Late of No. 5, Adamorisa Street, Surulere, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 9th day of April, 2014. 52. Francis Olatoye Majekodunmi. Late of No. 67, Irepodun Street, Iberekodo, Abeokuta. Who died intestate on the 4th day of November, 1982. 53. Ebhomienlen David. Late of No. 22A, Cooper Road, Ikoyi, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 13th day of August, 2012. 54. Etok Monday otherwise known as Etok Monday Udoh. Late of No. 4, Fadare Street, Balogun Area, Iju Ishaga, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 15th day of December, 2012. 55. Emmanuel Odia. Late of No. 5, Gbadamosi Iginla Street, Surulere, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 2nd day of July, 2012. 56. Iroha Roseline Iruechenwa otherwise known as Iroha Roseline Iroechenwa. Late of 9, Owodunni Street, Amukoko, Apapa, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 5th day of June, 2012. 57. Olubitan Kolawole otherwise known as Olubitan Kolawole. Late of No. 3, Segun Ogundana Drive, Magodo G.R.A., Lagos. Who died intestate on the 31st day of October, 2009. 58. Lamidi Oloruntoyin Ishola. Late of No. 39, Adedeji Street, Itire Surulere, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 8th day of March, 2014. 59. Udoh Godwin. Late of No. 64, Ogbowonkwo Street, Ajegunle, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 20th day of December, 2009 at Lagos. 60. Dr. Mrs. Adegbola Adenike otherwise known as Ogundairo Adegbola Adenike. Late of House 17, Delman Estate, Akute Ajuwon Road, Akute, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 16th day of April, 2014. 61. Olufunmilayo Ogunleye otherwise known as Miss Olufunmilayo Ogunbowale. Late of No. 8A, Ojora Road, Ikoyi, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 18th day of December, 2013 at Lagos. 62. Anthony Ademola Adekogbe. Late of D3, HFP Way, Dolphin Estate, Ikoyi, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 31st day of May, 2003 at Lagos. 63. Raphael Oladipo Akande. Late of No. 62, Ojo Road, Apapa Ajegunle, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 11th day of June, 1992. 64. Oluwayemisi Iyilola. Late of No. 3, Bishop Crowther Street, Surulere, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 9th day of January, 2012. 65. Saliu Saka. Late of No. 26, Charles Avenue, Ojo Road, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 22nd day of March, 2014. 66. David Akinola. Late of No. 35, Omotobora MTN/Selewu Igbogbo, Ikorodu, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 29th day of March, 2014. 67. Udoka Etim Ukpong. Late of No. 3/4, Ezie Ajegunle, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 17th day of October, 2013. 68. Abdul Shuabi Ariba. Late of No. 1, Oluga Close, Akowonjo , Lagos. Who died intestate on the 4th day of May, 2014. 69. Balogun Sulaimon Akibu. Late of No. 14, Orenaike Street, Orile Iganmu, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 5th day of October, 2012 at Lagos. 70. Opara Stella Onyegedum. Late of No. 17, Musibau Adegbola Street, Off Idimu Road, Ikotun, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 10th day of June, 2013 at Lagos. 71. Mr. Ezekiel Arogunjo otherwise known as Mr. Arogunjo Ezekiel. Late of No. 10, Military Street, Anuoluwapo Estate, OkoAfo, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 17th day of April, 2014. 72. Oguntade Nathaniel Theophilus. Late of 372, Borno Way, Yaba, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 12th day of November, 1947. 73. Amahibe Herbert Kuti. Late of No. 25, Ladega Street, Olodi Apapa, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 16th day of April, 2012. 74. Mrs. Cecilia Ibidun Akitoye. Late of Block 189, Flat 1, Amuwo Odofin Housing Estate, Mile 2, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 14th day of August, 2002 at Lagos. 75. Aregbe Lasisi Adegbola. Late of 2nd Avenue, 24 Road, G Close, Block 2, Flat 27, Festac Town, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 20th day of February, 2012 at Lagos. 76. Fatunde Samson Olumuyiwa . Late of No. 9, Micheal Olabode Street, Ikorodu. Who died intestate on the 7th day of October, 2004. 77. Akin-Taylor Bolaji Olukemi of Block A, Flat 6, LSDPC Estate, Alapere, Ketu, Lagos. Who died intestate on the 18th day of February, 2012. 78. Aloysius B. C. Dozie. Late of Dozie Villa, Umofor, Egbu, Owerri Imo State. Who died intestate on the 20th day of April, 2010.

S/N NAMES OF APPLICANT APPLYING FOR THE GRANT 1. Rasidat Olasumbo Adelowo (Nee Giwa) of 12, Rasak Taiwo Street, Off Igbe Road, Off Igbogbo Road, Ikorodu, Lagos. Daughter to the deceased. 2. Mrs. Betty Maliki and Mr. Maliki David of 12, Baba Ige Compound, Abule-Ado, Lagos and 21, Jagun Street, PPL, Okokomaiko, Lagos. Widow and son to the deceased. 3. Mr. Jonathan Ulokwe and Mr. Madukwe Duke of 32, Church Street, Ejigbo, Lagos and 8, Olushola Agbaje Street, Lagos. Widower and brother to the deceased. 4. Mrs. Manam Hope Ladipo and Kathy Olabisi Nicote Ladipo. Both of 10, Owolabi Omotoye Street, Agege. Widow and daughter to the deceased. 5. Mr. Adewole Jones and Mr. Ayodeji Jones. Both of 13, Muritala Muhammed Way, Ebute-metta, Lagos. Children to the deceased. 6. Sanyaolu Omowunmi O. of 4, Olufeko Close, Folagoro, Lagos. The only surviving daughter to the deceased. 7. Mr. Abiodun James and Mr. Olufemi Sowande of 1, Raji Gbadamosi Street, Idimu, Lagos and 10, Mogbonjubola Street, Shomolu, Lagos. Two of the children to the deceased. 8. Justina Irabor and Anthonia Irabor. Both of STD Police Barracks, Block I, Flat 1, Ikeja, Lagos. Widow and sister to the deceased. 9. Taiwo Olufunto Talabi and Yetunde Adeyemi Talabi. Both of 34, Odogbolu Street, Ketu, Lagos. Daughter and granddaughter to the deceased. 10. Hamed Alebiosu and Madiu Alebiosu. Both of 7 , Way, Lane Balogun, Lagos. Brother and father to the deceased. 11. Mrs. Chinyere Osuji and Mr. Ifeanyi Osuji. Both of 16, Onatamere Close, Satellite Town, Lagos. Widow and son to the deceased. 12. Mr. Monday Hunsajoh, Mr. Babaunde Hunsajoh and Mrs. Dupe Anthony. Both of 52, Makoko Road, Yaba, Lagos and 7, Apollo Street, Sabo, Yabo Lagos. 13. Gibson Jeremiah and Sarah Jeremiah. Both of Assemblies of God Church, Barakin Ladi, Plateau State, Nigeria. Two of the children to the deceased. 14. Aderibigbe Santos Patricia and Aderibigbe Santos Shola Vincent. Both of No. 7, Gbolagade Balogun Street, Obadore, Lagos. Children to the deceased. 15. Mrs. Ottun Iyabo Anike and Miss Ottun Ariyike Oluwafunke. Both of Plot 13, Bale Idowu Dabiri Street, Ajah, Lagos. Mother and sister to the deceased. 16. Oluwatosin Oyebola Odunlami, Tolulope Oluwatoyin Okuleye and Oluwatomi Gbolahan Odunlami. All of No. 28, Akintan Street, Ogba, Ikeja, Lagos. Children to the deceased. 17. Mrs. Esther Iyomere and Sogbesan Yetunde Oluwafunmilayo of House 1, 321 Road, E Close, Festac Town, Lagos and No. 1, Daddy Alaja Oke Arin, Lagos Island, Lagos. Children to the deceased. 18. Ejike Mojekwu, Chizoba Mojekwu and Nnenna Edozie. All of No.11, Ogunjirin Street, Gbagada Lagos. Siblings to the deceased. 19. Mrs. Kudirat Adeyeye, Mr. Fatai Orioye and Mr. Wasiu Orioye of No. 28, Adetayo Street, Itire Lagos, 67, Ola Street, Ijeshatedo Itire, Lagos and 28, Aguntasolo Street, Ijeshatedo, Itire, Lagos. Children to the deceased. 20. Muyinat Wonuola Idris, Musliu Olanrewaju Anibaba and kazeem Olatunji Anibaba. All of No. 45, Adelabu Street, Surulere, Lagos. Children to the deceased. 21. Alatise Olubunmi Elijah and Alatise Daniel of No. 74, Ejukolemu Street, Off Water Resources Road, Warri Delta State and No. 6, Akintola Street, Maryland estate, Off Badore Road, Ajah, Lagos. Brothers to the deceased. 22. Mrs. Silver Odidi and David Odidi. Both of No. 45A, Olayinka Street, Ajegunle, Apapa, Lagos. Widow and children to the deceased. 23. Mr. Cajetan Anayo Azosionwu and Lucky Rapheal Chinakwe. Both of 232, Ojo Road, Ajegunle, Apapa Lagos. Widower and brother to the deceased. 24. Mrs. Maria Ojukpen and Mr. Austin Ojukpen. Both of No. 13, Shokunbi Street, Kirikiri Apapa, Lagos. Widow and son to the deceased. 25. Mr. Ihiere Samosn and Mr. Ihiere Cyril Nkonye. Both of 21, Igboelerin Road, Okokomaiko, Lagos. Children to the deceased. 26. Mr. Olasupo Moses Familusi and Mr. Oludare Amos Fabunmi of 49, Adebayo Makolu Street, Anthony Village, Lagos and Opposite Zenith Bank New Gbagi, Ibadan. Widower and brother to the deceased. 27. Babajide O. Oguntoyinbo and Olajide H. Oguntoyinbo. Both of 112, Itire Road, Surulere, Lagos. Father and brother to the deceased. 28. Mrs. Ann Ojeli and Mr. Nicholas Amuobi. Both of Close 29, House 12, Satellite Town, Lagos. Widow and brother to the deceased. 29. Yemisi Oshoyinka , Bunmi Akindele and Titilayo Shittu of 6, Shoyinka Street, Abule-Egba, 26, Adalemo Street, Adalemo and 10, Adeoye Street, Oshodi. Children to the deceased. 30. Mrs. Vivian Mgbeken and Mr. Endurance Mgbeken. Both of 41, Akogun Street, Olodi Apapa, Lagos. Widow and son to the deceased. 31. Mrs. Odewoye Yemisi Florence and Oyeyipo Peace Monisola. Both of 10, Olatunji Street, Oshodi, Lagos. Widow and cousin to the deceased. 32. Mrs. Maria Omoseye and Mr. Uyiosa Omoseye. Both of Block 4, Flat 22, Marcarthy Barracks, Onikan, Lagos. Widow and son to the deceased. 33. Akeem Rotimi Atanda and Afeez Atanda. Both of No.3, Oladeinde Street, Shomolu , Lagos. Children to the deceased. 34. Ifeoluwa Tokan, Olaoluwa Tokan and Lolade Oshodin. All of Plot 3, Block 9, Obafemi Owowaiye Street, Magodo, Phase 1, Lagos. Children and sister to the deceased. 35. Mrs. Iyabo Modupe Ademusi and Mr. Timothy Olushola. Both of KM 29, Badagry Expressway Ojo, Lagos. Widow and son to the deceased. 36. Saheed Savage , Idris Savage and Kehinde Iyabo Ojopoke. All of 25A, Adekanbi Street, ketu, Mile 12, Lagos. Children and grandchildren to the deceased. 37. Mr. Aday Saleh Okwoshi and Mr. Abubakar Yahaya. Both of Adeno Compound, Agbashi Doma, LG.C. Nassarawa. Brother and son to the deceased. 38. Mr. Owolabi Sikiru Akande and Mr. Olaniyi Opeyemi Akande of 13, Olanrewaju Street, Oko-Oba, Agege and 9, Mosuro Street, Abule-Oja, University of Lagos Road. Children to the deceased. 39. Sufuyanu Momoh and Salisu Momoh. Both of No. 31/35, Cardoso Street, Awodi Ora, Ajegunle, Lagos. Children to the deceased. 40. Mr. Idowu Mamora, Mrs. Oluwayemisi Oginni and Mr. Festus Fashina. All of 170, Muritala Muhammed Way, Ebute Metta, Yaba Lagos. Grand children to the deceased. 41. Sarah Ebong, Richard Ebong and Joyce Ebong. All of 8, John Akinjide Street, Ikeja, Lagos. Widow and children to the deceased. 42. Oluwole Onafujabi Esq., Mrs. Biol a Vintura and Mr. Adeleke O. Onafujabi. All of 12, Olanrewaju Street, Abule-Okuta, Bariga. Children to the deceased. 43. Mrs. Patricia Sunday and Godwill Sunday of Camp 65, Battalion , Lagos. Widow and one of the children to the deceased. 44. Mrs. Omosola Taiwo Sobowale and Mrs. Komolafe Temitayo Idowu. Both of 18, Palm View Estate, Phase 11, Oko-Oba, Agege, Lagos. Widow and sister to the deceased. 45. Olugbenga Adekoya and Bolanle Adekoya. Both of No. 33, Kayode Taiwo Street, Ogudu G.R.A, Lagos. Widower and daughter to the deceased. 46. Mrs. Helen Johnson, Mrs. Banke Onibudo, Mr. Labo Johnson, and Capt. Akinbo Johnson. All of 67, Coker Road, Ilupeju, Lagos. 47. Mrs. Olaide Monsurat Adisa and Omobolanle Temilade Adisa. Both of Road, 12, Plot 504, Victoria Garden City, Lekki. Widow and daughter to the deceased. 48. Mr. Olarenwaju Peregrino and Mrs. Ireti Olajide (Nee Peregrino). Both of 2, Laboye Laleye Close, Surulere, Lagos. Children to the deceased. 49. Dorathy Ogechi Anyasi (Mrs.) and Ruth Kenechi Anyasi (Miss). Both of 8, Ijegun Street, Off Agboyi Road, Alapere Ketu, Lagos. Widow and daughter to the deceased. 50. Yetunde Osundiya , Ayomide Osundiya and Kehinde Osundiya. All of 8, Gabriel Olusanya Street, Ejigbo. Daughter and sister to the deceased. 51. Onitiri Adetoun and Onitiri Adeola Mariam. Both of 17, Jadesola Oshodi Street, Off Brown Road, Aguda Surulere, Lagos. Sister and nephew to the deceased. 52. Simeon Abayomi Majekodunmi and Mrs. Caroline Bolajoko Edemurukaye. Both of No. 67, Irepodun Street, Iberekodo Abeokuta. Children to the deceased. 53. Daniel Ebhomienlen and Mrs. Victoria Ebhomienlen of No. 22A, Cooper Road, Ikoyi Lagos and No. 7A, Agodogba Street, Park View, Ikoyi Lagos. Son and widow to the deceased. 54. Edith Etok and Micheal Ubong Etok. Both of No. 15, Olowora Road, Olowora Isheri, Lagos. Widow and son to the deceased. 55. Godwin Odia and Justina Odia. Both of No. 5, Gbadamosi Iginla Street, Surulere, Lagos. Son and widow to the deceased. 56. Iroha Emmanuel Chinonso and Iroha Uchechukwu Timothy. Both of No. 9, Owodunni Street, Amukoko, Apapa, Lagos. Children to the deceased. 57. Abimbola Olubitan and Olubitan Oluwaseun Adeolu. Both of No. 3, Segun Ogundana Drive, Magodo, G.R.A, Lagos. Widow and son to the deceased. 58. Mrs. Rashidat Ishola, Olanrewaju Akeem Ishola, Taibat Ishola and Moshood Ishola of No. 5, Makarious Street, Ajah, Eti-Osa, Lagos and No. 9, Carter, Ebute-metta, Lagos. Widow and children to the deceased. 59. Akpan Aniekan Usoro and Joshua Mattew Edet. Both of No. 64, Ogbowonkwo Street, Ajegunle, Lagos. Brothers to the deceased. 60. Dr. Omololu Adegbola and Mr. Folasope Isreal Oludairo of House 17, Delman Estate, Akute, Lagos and No. 12, Ijaiye Street, Mafoluku Oshodi, Lagos. Widower and brother to the deceased. 61. Mrs. Oyeyinka Taiga and Miss Aminat Salami. Both of 8A, Ojora Road, Ikoyi, Lagos. Daughter and niece to the deceased. 62. Mrs. Modinat Kofoworola Adekogbe and Ademola Adegboyega Adekogbe. Both of No. 54, Oniwaya Road, Off Capitol Road, Agege, Lagos. Widow and son to the deceased. 63. Pastor John Oladipo and Segun Emmanuel Oladipo of No. 9, Igbesi Street, Ilasamaja , Lagos and No. 20, Ago Hausa Street, Apapa Ajegunle, Lagos. Children to the deceased. 64. Mrs. Sadebomi Akinola, Mr. Olubunmi Cole and Mr. Kenny Debayo Sanusi of No. 1, Yusuf Okunade Close, Idiroko Estate, Ikorodu, Lagos and No. 18, Tunde Hassan Close, Ifako Gbagada Lagos. Sister, uncle and widower to the deceased. 65. Saidatu Saliu and Yakubu Saliu. Both of 3, Onosu Street, Ipaye Bus-stop, Iba, Lagos. Children to the deceased. 66. Oluwabunmi Dupe Akinola and Oluwajuwonlo Funmilayo Akinola. Both of No. 35, Omotobora, MTN/Selewu, Igbogbo, Ikorodu, Lagos. Widow and daughter. 67. Udoka Udeme and Udoka Emen. Both of No.3/4, Ezie Street, Ajegunle, Lagos. Two of the children to the deceased. 68. Latefat Shuaib and Abdullahi Itopa Raji. Both of No. 1, Oluga Close, Akowonjo, Lagos. Widow and Brother to the deceased. 69. Oluwasegun Balogun and Babatunde Balogun. Both of No. 14, Orenaike Street, Orile Iganmu, Lagos. Children to the deceased. 70. Mr. Micheal C. Douglas Opara and Mr. Okechukwu Opara. Both of No. 17, Musibau Adegbola Street, Off idimu Road, Ikotun, Lagos. Widower and brother in-law to the deceased. 71. Mrs. Agatha Arogunjo and Mr. Friday Arogunjo. Both of No. 10, Military Street, Anuoluwapo Estate, Oko-Afo, Lagos. The widow and one of the children to the deceased. 72. Dr. Olufolahan Oguntade and Mr. Olubodun Oguntade. Both of 372, Borno Way, Yaba, Lagos. Children to the deceased. 73. Mrs. Amahibe Benedicta and Amahibe Victor Chinonso. Both of No. 4, Cemetery Close, Olodi Apapa, Lagos. Widow and son to the deceased. 74. Sylvester Abayomi Akitoye and Kofoworola Odutola of Lagos Nigeria and Maryland, U.S.A. Children to the deceased. 75. Mr. Saliu Femi Aregbe and Mr. Kehinde Aregbe. Both of 2nd Avenue, 24 Road, G Close, Block 2, Festac Town, Lagos. Children to the deceased. 76. Deaconess Idowu Fatunde and Titilayo Fatunde. Both of No. 9, Micheal Olabode Street, Ikorodu. Widow and daughter to the deceased. 77. Ayotunde Olumide Akin-Taylor and Omosalewa Oluwatobi Akin-Taylor of Block A, Flat 6, LSDPC Estate, Alapere, Ketu, Lagos. Widower and daughter to the deceased. 78. Dozie Michael Tyrone Okechukwu and Miss Christine Pamela Dozie. Both of No. 5, Ajisafe Street, Ikeja, G.R.A, Lagos. Two of the children to the deceased.

I.O.AKINKUGBE (MRS) PROBATE REGISTRAR

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2014

MONEYLINK

NDIC to review insurance cover, premium base for PMBs

N order to mitigate risks associated with primary mortgage financing in the country, the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), has unveiled plans to review upwards insurance cover for depositors of Primary Mortgage Banks, (PMBs). The corporation reimburses PMBs depositors up to a maximum limit of N200,000 per depositor in the event a PMB failing. The NDIC said it has developed and deployed a framework for fi-

From Nduka Chiejina

nancial assistance for the banks to promptly intervene and assist them to overcome temporary liquidity problems. Speaking at the corporation’s sensitisation workshop for PMBs operators held yesterday in Abuja, the Managing Director, Alhaji Umaru Ibrahim, said the move to increase insurance cover for depositors had become necessary in view of the recent developments in the

mortgage finance sub-sector particularly the potential threats in the rapidly evolving sub-sector and their implications for housing provision in the country. Umaru Ibrahim told mortgage operators that “we are thinking why not segregate slightly from what is obtained in the Micro Finance Banks (MFB), given the huge portfolio and risks you carry, and in return, given the quantum of premium that you give.” According to him, the corpora-

Naira gains on dollar intervention

HE naira, yesterday, firmed 0.12 per cent to close at 163.70 against the dollar, after the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) sold dollars directly to lenders on the interbank market to prop up the ailing currency, dealer said. The local unit eased to around 164.15 naira by midday trade,

prompting the central bank to intervene with an undisclosed amount of dollars sold directly on the interbank market, dealers said. The naira closed at 163.90 on Friday. The currency has been falling for the past three weeks, weakened by the impact of the decline in global oil prices and low offshore inflows

into Nigeria’s debt and equity markets. “We expect the central bank to continue to support and reduce pressure on the naira,” one dealer said. At a foreign exchange auction, the CBN hiked the amount of dollars it offered to sell to $500 million, up from $350 million it has offered in the past quarter.

Oteh re-elected AMERC chair From Nduka Chiejina

•Ibrahim

tion is also reviewing the basis of premium of the PMBs in the country because “instead of using the flat rate, which was the initial practice, the corporation would introduce risk-based premium assessing system”. This, he said, was obtainable with the money Deposit Banks, “that way, we will be able to promote safer and best practices and in the process, the best manned and managed institutions will have less premium burden on them.”

Africa Prudential Registrars hosts investors’ forum

FRICA Prudential Registrars Plc (APR) at the weekend hosted its investors’ forum themed “Building a stronger and more vibrant capital market; the Role of Registrar” highlighting the importance of delivering a customer-focused, technologically driven service for corporations. The Investors’ Forum is taking place following the launch of her e-Registrar Solutions (eRS) and a marked departure from conventional share registration practices. The solutions which now form the benchmark for e-Share regis-

By Collins Nweze

tration services across West Africa are designed to allow access to personalized information anytime, anywhere, via a secure portal. The eRS is a selection of innovative share registration portals, including SharePortal designed for shareholders; ClientHall for Client Companies; BrokerOnline for Stockbroking firms; and RightOnline for processing of Right Issues. Each of the portals boast of unique time and cost-saving features. The forum, which included attend-

ees from businesses across Nigeria , along with the launch of the e-Registrar portals are driving a change within the industry to become bestin-class across Africa . Speaking at the event Managing Director/CEO of Africa Prudential Registrars Plc, Mr. Peter Ashade, commented, “we consistently engage in research and development as a tool to strengthening and improving the market. While reinforcing the high relevance of registrars in the growth aspirations of the Nigerian capital market, today’s event marks the emergence of the long-

awaited paradigm shift in Share Registration business with the introduction of eRS for Virtual Service Delivery to the industry stakeholders.” The company is a leader in the industry, bringing technology into the standard share registration model. Currently, APR Plc manages 47 client-registers, made up of over 3 million shareholders. With over four decades of share registration experience in the Nigerian capital market, APR is the first and only registrar firm listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

DATA BANK

MEMORANDUM QUOTATIONS Name

Offer Price

AFRINVEST W. A. EQUITY FUND ARM AGGRESSIVE GROWTH BGL NUBIAN FUND BGL SAPPHIRE FUND CANARY GROWTH FUND CONTINENTAL UNIT TRUST CORAL INCOME FUND FBN FIXED INCOME FUND FBN HERITAGE FUND FBN MONEY MARKET FUND

168.45 9.17 1.12 1.19 0.69 1.39 1,676.09 1,118.84 121.30 121.16 1,117.51 1.2381 1.2875 0.8705 1.0829

• UBA BALANCED FUND • UBA BOND FUND • UBA EQUITY FUND • UBA MONEY MARKET FUND

Bid Price 167.01 9.08 1.12 1.19 0.69 1.33 1,676.09 1,118.03 120.45 120.30 1,116.70 1,2298 1,2875 0.8539 1.0829

GAINERS AS AT 29-09-14

IRECTOR General, Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Arunma Oteh has been unanimously returned unopposed as chairperson of the African/Middle East Regional Committee (AMERC) at the 39th annual conference of the International Organisation of Securities Commissions (IOSCO) currently taking place in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Oteh was acclaimed as Chairperson to head AMERC for the next two years at the end of the AMERC meeting held during the ongoing IOSCO meeting in Brazil based on the experience that she brings as well as quality leadership Nigeria has provided over the years. By this election, Oteh is to serve on the Executive Committee, the highest decision making organ of the global body for the next two years. Also re-elected were Saudi. Arabia and Egypt. In her acceptance speech, Oteh who assumed office in January 2010 as head of the SEC, the capital market apex regulatory body in Nigeria, said her election as AMERC chair was a demonstration of the confidence on her, her team at SEC and Nigeria as a whole. She pledged to be a loud voice representing the Region’s interest and her commitment to ensuring that the Region would do its best to uphold the goals and ideals of the global body. She said, “we believe that our work is very important to IOSCO and that it is very important to the market. One of the things we have achieved in the last two years has been greater inclusion and cohesion. This has not come from the work of the executive alone, but by the work of all of us.

RETAIL DUTCH AUCTION SYSTEM (RDAS) Transaction Dates 24/09/2014 17/09/2014 08/09/2014 ECONOMIC INDICATORS

Inflation: August

8.5%

Monetary Policy Rate

12.0%

Amount Offered in ($) 350m 300m 300m

Amount Sold in ($) 349.96m 299.9m 299.9m

CBN EXCHANGE RATES September 24, 2014

Currency

Buying (N)

Selling (N)

154.70

155.71

SYMBOL

O/PRICE

C/PRICE

CHANGE

Foreign Reserves

$39.6b

US Dollar

GUINNESS

190.00

199.50

9.50

Oil Price (Bonny Light/b)

$97.9

Pounds Sterling

250.7724

252.3929

CHAMPION

9.70

10.18

0.48

ANINO

0.21

0.22

0.01

Euro

200.3394

201.634

NESTLE

1,055.00

1,100.00

Swiss Franc

165.7385

166.8095

Yen

1.445

1.4544

CFA

0.286

0.306

231.3531

232.8481

25.1773

25.3409

INTENEGINS

Credit to private Sector (CPS) Primary Lending Rate (PLR)

0.51

0.53

0.02

14.70

0.55

ROYALEX

0.55

0.57

0.02

PORTPAINT

5.32

5.50

0.18

STERLNBANK

2.15

2.20

0.05

32.25

32.99

0.74

LOSERS AS AT 29-09-14

SYMBOL

O/PRICE

C/PRICE

N16.42 trillion.

45.00

14.15

CCNN

Money Supply (M2)

CHANGE

ETERNA

3.80

3.61

-0.19

PREMBREW

4.63

4.40

-0.23

UPDCREIT

9.13

8.68

-0.45

UNILEVER

49.20

46.90

-2.30

N17.2 trillion 16.5%

NIGERIAN INTER-BANK OFFERED RATES (NIBOR)

Tenor

19-09-14 Rate (%) Rate (%) 22-09-14

Yuan/Renminbi

Overnight (O/N)

11.00

10.917

Riyal

41.259

41.5256

12.464

12.393

SDR

232.156

233.6562

13.281

13.201

14.205

14.110

FOREX RATES

RTBRISCOE

0.97

0.93

-0.04

NPFMCRBK

0.98

0.94

-0.04

R-DAS ($/N)

157.29

LEARNAFRCA

1.40

1.35

-0.05

Interbank ($/N)

162.75

FCMB

4.45

4.30

-0.15

LIVESTOCK

2.94

2.85

-0.09

Parallel ($/N)

167.50

33.00

32.00

-1.00

ASHAKACEM

WAUA

GOVT. SECURITIES YIELD – SECONDARY MARKET

Tenor

Sept. 22, 2014

Rates

T-bills - 91

10.10

T-bills - 182

10.22

T-bills - 364

10.30

Bond - 3yrs

11.52

Bond - 5yrs

11.55

Bond - 7yrs

12.13

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2014

NEWS Okorocha urges Nigerians to work for unity

MO State Governor Rochas Okorocha has urged Nigerians to always work for the nation's unity. The governor said there is need to avoid toeing the lines of unpatriotic politicians who use religion and ethnic divisive methods to cause disaffection among Nigerians. He noted that as Nigeria attained 54 years of independence, the emphasis should be on the things that unite the people and not on those that polarise the people along religious and ethnic lines. Okorocha regretted that at 54, Nigeria was still facing re-

ligious challenges and ethnicity was taking its toll on the nation's political development. The governor reminded politicians that posterity would judge them, if they continued to fan the embers of religious and ethnic differences for their selfish gains. He regretted that the Boko Haram insurgency, which had led to the death of several innocent Nigerians, would have been tamed early, if Nigerian leaders had detached insurgency from politics and confronted it as a national challenge when it started.

Club chief to help the needy

HE new president of the Zonta Club of Ibadan 11, Dr Atinuke Agunloye, has promised to assist the less privileged to enjoy the legacies of her predecessors. Agunloye, a university lecturer and radiologist, spoke in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, at the inauguration of the club’s officers for 2014-2016 biennium. The new president, who described the club as a humanitarian organisation, urged members to support

From Tayo Johnson, Ibadan

the new administration to succeed. Agunloye added: “Just like my predecessor, I would continue to work hard to make an impact on the society, and part of my focus would be on the creation of awareness against violence against women, supporting and encouraging girls in technology courses, training girls in leadership qualities, among others.”

Funeral for Christian leader

WOMAN leader and one of the first nurses in Nanka, Anambra State, Mrs Nneoma Lavendar M. Ezenekwe (nee Umeokafor) will be buried on October 2. She was also a Christian leader who was honoured with the titles of Ezinne and Nneoma by St. James Anglican Church, Nanka. The late Mrs Ezenekwe was born on March 1, 1931 and

trained as a nurse/midwife at Specialist Hospital, IyienuOgidi and Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Umuahia, Abia State. She worked in several Eastern and Southern Nigerian towns before retiring in 1991 as the Chief Matron at the General Hospital, Ekwulobia. She will be buried on at Agbiligba village, Nanka, Anambra State.

Obiano urges peaceful co-existence among Nigerians

NAMBRA State Governor Willie Obiano has called for a peaceful co-existence among the followers of the major religions. The governor also advised ordinary Nigerians to strengthen the unity among various groups across the country to enhance national development. He said Nigeria would overcome its difficulties and become stronger and more prosperous. Obiano spoke at a special church service at St. Faith Anglican Cathedral in Awka, the state capital, on Nigeria’s 54th Independence anniversary. The governor, who read the first lesson, said peace was imperative to sustain the nation’s progress. He added that the progress Anambra State had witnessed in various sectors, especially since the restoration of tight security, had stabilised the state.

•Obiono (left) and Rev. Ibezim after the church service...on Sunday.

Obiano said his administration would always support and collaborate with religious bodies to promote inter-religious harmony. The governor also promised to work with elders of the various religious denominations to rebuild moral rectitude and understanding among the faithful. He said: “I will soon host the association of knights of the various denominations, including the Anglicans and

Catholics, as part of our continuous engagement and collaboration at promoting peace and mutual co-existence in Anambra.” Obiano explained that his administration’s Wheels of Development, which is hinged on the four pillars of Agriculture, Trade and Commerce, Oil & Gas and Industrialisation, was creating jobs and wealth for the residents. The governor said the state was targeting $1.9 billion in-

vestments before the end of the year. He said other areas of development, including education, had recorded steady growth, with students coming out in flying colours in internal and external examinations. The governor called for a collective effort to sustain the tempo of progress in the state. Obiano said Nigeria had become the largest economy in Africa, adding that it would grow better and realise the nation’s dreams.

Governors shun Igbo Day celebration

ONE of the five governors in the Southeast and political heavyweights from the region attended this year's World Igbo Day celebration yesterday at the Dr Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka, the Anambra State capital. The two dignitaries at the event were former Aviation Minister Chief Mbazurike Amechi and a former Oha-

From Nwanosiike Onu, Awka

naeze President General, Dr. Dozie Ikedife. One of the organisers, who spoke in confidence, told our reporter that the event flopped because of the national awards President Goodluck Jonathan was conferring on eminent Nigerians in Abuja on the same day. The chairman of the event, Prince Arthur Eze, was absent and Ikedife became the acting chairman. Various women groups and traditional dancers from the five states were present. The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) was represented by Rev. Samuel Audu, who called for the nation's unity. The North's umbrella group urged other regional groups to work together for the nation's development. Also, the Yoruba Youth Council (YYC) was represented by Husseni Abiola and the Ijaw National Congress (INC) by Ebieridei Charles Ambacowei, its vice-president. Few traditional rulers, led by their chairman in the zone, Eze Cletus Ilomuanya, attended the event.

The Anambra State President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Elder Chris Eluemunoh, who doubled as the chairman of the Organising Committee, hailed Governor Willie Obiano for contributing to the celebration. He said Nigeria attained 100 years of amalgamation this year, adding that this was significant to the Igbo because they needed to examine their past and plan for a better future. Eluemunoh said there was need for an economic empowerment of the Ndigbo to enable them participate actively in the nation's transformation. The President General of Ohanaeze, Chief Gary Enwo Igariwey, noted that for equity and justice, the Ndigbo would vie for Presidency at the expiration of Jonathan's tenure. He said this had been the position of Ohanaeze Ndigbo since 2010, adding that it remained unchanged. Igariwey said the Ndigbo would continue to build bridges with other ethnic nationalities to realise its presidential pursuit. He said: "Our strength

should come from our demographic weight, spread all over the country. Very soon, after consultation, our people will be called upon to speak with one voice on the issue of president. We did it before and we can do it again. "The security situation in some parts of the country has exposed our people to clear dangers in their lives and investments. With the escalating body counts from the violence and incendiary rhetorics from discredited politicians, who continue to fuel the fire of anti-Igbo hatred, the time to think home is now." Also, the Movement for the Actualization of Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB) warned its leader, Chief Ralph Uwazurike, that the era of using Biafra or the group to intimidate Ndigbo was over. The group spoke yesterday in Awka through its suspended National Director of Information, Uchenna Madi, at the Igbo Day celebration. Madu told our reporter that the MASSOB's struggle for Biafra was not a one-man show but a collective struggle.

‘Nobody can blackmail me out of politics’

NAMBRA State House of Assembly Speaker Clare Chinwe Nwaebili has said she will not bow to the pressure to quit politics until she realises her political dreams. The Speaker announced that she would vie for the Ogbaru constituency’s House of Representatives seat in next year’s election on the platform of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA). She denied the rumours that Governor Willie Obiano bribed the lawmakers with N400 million when he took them to the United States. Mrs Nwaebili denied the allegation that the governor also gave the Assembly N300 million to pass the supplementary budget he presented to it. The Speaker described the allegations as the handiwork of the governor’s detractors. Mrs Nwaebili addressed

From Nwanosike Onu, Awka

reporters yesterday in Awka, the state capital, after the Assembly’s plenary. She said: “Our visit to Washington D.C in U.S.A was on a leadership course. Governor Obiano never visited the place throughout our sojourn, not to talk of giving any member of the Assembly any money. All these issues are being raised by uninformed persons.” Mrs Nwaebili denied the rumour that the governor’s wife, Mrs Ebelechukwu Obi-

ano, announced her candidature of APGA for the 2015 House of Representatives seat for Ogbaru. The Speaker described this as a misinformation. She said: “I do not know what some people tend to achieve by all these lies. Mrs. Obiano did not say anything like that. What the governor’s wife did was heaving praises on me during her visit. She said I had worked closely with her and that I deserved a compensation.”

Old people to govt: reduce kerosene price

HE Congress of Old People has urged the Federal Government to reduce the price of kerosene from N125 to N50. The senior citizens said the current price of the domestic fuel is making life unbearable for them. They urged the government to review its pricing system. In a statement by their Co-ordinator, Primate Ayoola Omonigbehin, the old people said the government should include their welfare in its policy, adding that they needed subsidised services to make living easy for them.

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2014

NEWS

DO State Governor Adams Oshiomhole has said it is wishful thinking for President Goodluck Jonathan to think that the defection of Chief Tom Ikimi to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) will give PDP victory in the state. Oshiomhole, who was reacting to the boast by President Jonathan that the PDP would win Edo in 2015 and 2016, said it was unfortunate that the President was being deceived by PDP leaders in the state. The governor, who spoke through his Political Adviser, Charles Idahosa, said the President should have checked how many persons defected with Ikimi to the PDP. Idahosa said the Bini, who constitute over 50 per cent of the population of the state, have been marginalised by the PDP-led Federal Government. He said it was a dream for the President to think that Esan godfathers will win Edo for him.

From Osagie Otabor, Benin

The political adviser said: “Ikimi said he left APC because after cooking the food people came and stole both the pot and the food. But in this case, he forgot that it was Ize-Iyamu, who cooked for those who left the APC for PDP. “But Ikimi went to the stadium to hijack the show by introducing Ize-Iyamu instead of Ize-Iyamu introducing him to the President. “Ize-Iyamu, who did all the cooking, was now a spectator. Dr. Ogbemudia was never mentioned there, former Governor Lucky Igbinedion was seated there, his father was also seated and none of them were asked to speak, yet President Jonathan is boasting that PDP will win Edo, that is laughable. “We will deal with them in February. As we speak today, there is no Bini man or woman who is a minister, permanent secretary, so what is the PDP going to tell the Bini people that will

make them vote for PDP? “The days of rigging are over. We are going to deal with them. Every appointment is in Esan, Uromi in particular. It is a wild dream to say they will win Edo. “The All Progressives Congress (APC) administration shared all the positions equally without any discrimination, so PDP will never win here, the Bini will decide where the votes go.” Secretary to the State Government Prof. Julius Ihonvbere said the PDP cannot get anything in the state. Ihonvbere spoke in Etsako West Local Government Area, when he launched his senatorial campaign office in Auchi. He said: "If the President likes he can come to Edo State 200 times, the governor has laid a solid foundation that PDP cannot destroy. "It is the arrogance of power that killed the PDP in Edo State and it is dead because our governor has laid a foundation that nobody can

Zoning divides Bayelsa PDP

HERE is tension in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Bayelsa State, following attempts by stakeholders to zone electoral offices. It was gathered that some party members, including elders, hatched a plot to stop some National Assembly members from returning in 2015. The development, it was gathered, unsettled the Bayelsa West Senatorial District, where some party leaders were ‘working’ to deny Senator Heineken Lokpobiri a third term. The leaders were also said to be determined to stop the re-election of the member representing Sagbama/ Ekeremor Federal Constituency, Dr. Stella Dorgu. Dorgu, whose constituency is in Bayelsa West, replaced Governor Seriake Dickson after his election in 2012. Warning signs were said to have emerged in Sagbama at a rally organised by stakeholders from the district to endorse President Goodluck Jonathan for 2015 and Governor Seriake Dickson for 2016. Supporters of Lokpobiri and Dorgu, especially youths, were said to have walked out of the rally.

Students protest ‘embezzlement’

Ikimi can’t win Edo for you, Oshiomhole tells Jonathan

From Mike Odiegwu, Yenagoa

The state pioneer chairman, Charles Dorgu, was said to have dropped the shocker at the rally. He said the political leaders decided on zoning in the interest of peace and harmony. Dorgu said it was Sagbama’s turn to produce a senator and Ekeremor the House of Representatives. Lokpobiri hails from Ekeremor Local Government; Dorgu is from Sagbama, the governor’s local government. It was gathered that the remarks by the ex-PDP chairman provoked mixed reactions. One of the party leaders,

who attended the rally, said it was unfortunate that some persons wanted to cause confusion in Dickson’s senatorial district. The source, who pleaded for anonymity, said Lokpobiri and Dorgu were financiers of the rally because of their support for Jonathan and Dickson. He said it was unacceptable for some persons to be flying the zoning kite when the party’s decision-making organs were yet to support it. “The PDP constitution is clear and there are party organs that can take a decision on zoning. Decisions on zoning cannot be taken at a rally.”

Edo lawmakers pass 2015 budget From Osagie Otabor, Benin

DO State House of Assembly lawmakers have passed the 2015 budget proposal submitted by Governor Adams Oshiomhole last week. Oshiomhole presented a budget of N156.551 billion, consisting of N87.56 billion as Capital Expenditure and Recurrent Expenditure of N68.99 billion. But the lawmakers passed a budget estimate of N159.3 billion. Chairman of the Appropriation and Project Monitoring Peter Aliyu said the budget proposal presented by the governor reflected the views of the people and meant complete all ongoing projects. The lawmakers passed N88. 6 billion allocated for capital expenditure; N70. 7billion was allocated for recurrent expenditure.

Community blames Shell for vandalism

HE Ijaw Chapter of the Delta State Host Communities of Nigeria (HOSTCOM) has accused employees of Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) of vandalising pipelines. A statement by its chairman, Kingsley Ikiere, and Secretary Ozugbo Godwin alleged that SPDC workers were involved in vandalising pipelines to create jobs for their friends and cronies. The statement reads: “Shell has started its blackmail of some host communities to deprive them of their entitlements and benefits. It said: “Odimodi, Isiyayeigbene, Ogulagha, Okuntu and other host com-

From Polycarp Orosevwotu, Ughelli

munities have kept their part by providing a peaceful working environment for Shell to operate its facilities. “In 2009 and 2013, suspected vandals and pirates handed over to security agencies by Isiyayeigbene and Odimodi communities were released without any punishment because they are working with

Shell insiders. “We call on Shell to stop the incessant and cheap blackmail being perpetrated to deprive Odimodi, Isiyayegbene, Ogulagha and Okuntun communities of their entitlements. “If we are not allowed to partake, then it will be clear that SPDC is aware and supports the dubious activities of its workers at the Forcados terminal.”

Akwa Ibom JUSUN suspends strike From Uyoatta Eshiet, Uyo

HE Akwa Ibom State Judiciary Staff Union (JUSUN) has suspended its proposed strike earlier scheduled to begin on Thursday. The Chairman, Bassey Akpan, said the strike will not hold because there were some positive developments towards meeting the demands of the union.

•Oshiomhole

ever forget. "This launching is a mark of victory for us. As we are moving forward, those who will enter here will work for us in good health and from the work we going to do here, we will intimidate the PDP with the work the governor has done such that they won't know when we get to Abuja. "Even in Edo South, it is all Osho Baba. Edo South leaders, such as Ogbemudia, are happy that they have a son like Oshiomhole. “So the respect you have for the people determines what you are. "People will come to you and bring money for vote but shine your eyes. “In two and half years time, the man who brought the new face of Edo will leave office but we need a senator who will be able to sit with the in-coming governor, the members of the House of Representatives and House of Assembly to bring development to Edo North."

TUDENTS of Environmental Health, Akwa Ibom State College of Health Technology, have protested the alleged embezzlement of their examination fees by a lecturer. The lecturer has been redeployed to the Ministry of Health. The students marched on the House of Assembly with placards. Some of the placards by the students read: “Return our money”;”You are more dangerous than Ebola”. The lecturer was said to

From Kazeem Ibrahym, Uyo

have allegedly collected over N1million from the students but he was yet to be register them for their examination. The protesters also went to the State Broadcasting Corporation where they interacted with reporters. It was gathered that the lecturer on sighting the students fled in a friend’s car. The Permanent Secretary, Elder Esang Bassey, urged the students not take law into their hands.

Church building collapses in Edo

EMBERS of the Liberty Power Bible Church, a.k.a Power Palace, escaped death on Sunday, when their church building collapsed one hour after service. There was, however, no casualty. It was gathered that the building was still under construction. The roof and pillars fell on another building. No church member was around when our reporter visited but the owner of the damaged building, Ajor Sylvanus, said the building collapsed at 1:45pm. Sylvanus said his brother narrowly escaped being hit by the collapsing pillars. He told reporters that he warned the pastor about materials used for the building. “Yesterday, there was a storm but I have been complaining about the building. “The pastor built the church

From Osagie Otabor, Benin

like a fence, with no pillar. The block was made of sand. “I have been telling him that the absence of pillars would cause the building to collapse. “The building fell on my building and damaged many things. I thank God that nobody died. When the pastor came, he was concerned about the musical instruments in his church and thanking God that his members were not around. “I had to call the police. The building was cracked and I have been warning the pastor that it will soon collapse.” Pastor Moses Erhue could not be reached for comments but a voice that spoke on the phone asked our reporter to call back because “tension was still high”.

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2014

CITYBEATS

CITYBEATS LINE: 08078425391

Poly student held for alleged murder

21-YEAR old student, Timilehin Ologunlagba, has been arrested by the police for allegedly killing a fellow student, Adeyemi Adeeso (20). The suspect, an undergraduate of Gateway Polytechnic in Igbesa, Ogun State, allegedly killed Adeeso outside the campus on August 11. He was said to have stabbed his victim to death. The late Adeeso, who lived at Owu-Ikosi, Epe Local Government Area of Lagos State with his par-

By Basirat Braimah

ents, was a student of Business Administration. Sources said the suspect and three others accosted the late Adeeso, saying he was going to give him a mark on his body. The late Adeeso tried to run away but they chased him and when they got him, they stabbed him with a knife. In an interview with The Nation, the bereaved father, Mr. Adedoyin Adeeso, said he learnt about the incident through his

guardian. He said: “I was informed by his guardian who told me that he was found a few metres away from the campus. He was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he died two hours later.” He said both Ologunlagba and his son were only mates and not friends, adding: “So, I keep wondering the kind of incision he wanted to make on my son’s body, which eventually resulted in his death. I miss my confidant because he was my first and only son. My son

was calm and gentle and could not hurt anybody. “I do not know what he would have done to them. I need justice for my son and that is why I want the police to do a proper job. They should bring the killers of my son to book. “Ologunlagba is alleged to be a strong member of Airlord confraternity. This is a known fact on the campus. He should assist investigators in arresting the other members of his gang who are at large”.

•The late Adeeso

‘Make use of retired police officers’ By Akinola Mustapha

HE Federal Government has been urged to use retired police chiefs in the fight against insecurity. Speaking in Lagos last weekend, a security expert, Folorunsho Atta, said President Goodluck Jonathan should consult these officers because they were proactive in tackling security in their time. He listed such officers to include Mr Sunday Adewusi and Mr Tafa Balogun, who are retired Inspectors-General of Police (IGP) and Alhaji Abubakar Tsav and Mr Yakubu Adamu Alkali, who retired as Commissioners. Atta said: “I think when it comes to appointments, government is more interested in their politicians’ friends and associates than men of integrity. Am sure if these men are given the opportunity to serve again in any area that concerns security of lives and property they will not only excel but set a precedent for future leaders”. He said Adewusi was the first IGP to empower the police logistically, while Balogun made the police one of the best in Africa operationally. Atta said the honesty and patriotism of Tsav and Alkali while in service would ensure they deliver on security issues if consulted. •From left: Dr Bode Adeniran, Special Adviser to Governor on Gas, Mr Rasak Amodu, the Council Manager Somolu Local Govt., Mrs Regina Obasa, Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources and Hon. Gbolahan Bagostowe, Executive Chairman Somolu Local Govt. during the sensitization programme organised by Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources in partnership with Lagos chamber of commerce and industry.

Court affirms orders in Sterling Bank, Dana case

USTICE Mohammed Yunusa of the Federal High Court in Lagos yesterday dismissed applications by Dana Impex Limited, a member of Dana Group, seeking to strike out a suit filed against it by Sterling Bank Plc. The firm prayed Justice Yunusa to strike out the suit or extend the time within which it can respond to his interim orders. The suit is over the N1.7billion Dana Impex al-

By Joseph Jibueze

legedly owes Sterling Bank. Justice Yunusa held that the application did not lay a proper foundation for the striking out of the action. He said the temporary orders he made are still in force. “The interim orders still subsist,” the judge said. Justice Yunusa granted Sterling Bank’s Receiver/ Manager, Mr Kunle Ogunba (SAN) leave to “take over and preserve” the company’s mortgaged property at Plot C, Block 11, Ilupeju Industrial Estate, Apapa-Oshodi Expressway, Lagos. The judge, among others, restrained the company or its agents from withdrawing or tampering with

funds in any of its accounts “under whatever name or guise in any bank or financial institution in Nigeria.” He also reinforced the order he made against Dana Drugs Limited in a sister case before him, also filed by Sterling Bank. In the June 9 order, Justice Yunusa granted an interim injunction restraining Dana Drugs or its directors from tampering with its funds in any bank or financial institution, pending the determination of the application for the appointment of a provisional liquidator. The court also directed banks keeping Dana Impex’s money to furnish Sterling Bank or its lawyer details of the outstanding credit in the account. Sterling Bank said it granted Dana Drugs a N200 million overdraft Dana

Impex a N1.5billion loan. It said the company, after the tenor, “could not liquidate the overdraft facility.” The bank said Dana Impex guaranteed the facility granted Dana Drugs through a tripartite legal mortgage. But the companies denied owing the bank, saying part of the facility had been repaid.

Man ‘steals’ N2,500 chicken

36-YEAR-OLD man, Michael Odogwu, appeared before a Tinubu Magistrate’s Court in Lagos for alleged theft of N2,500 worth of chicken. The accused, whose address was not provided, is facing a two-count charge of stealing and threat to life. The Prosecutor, Sergeant Daniel Ighodalo, told the court that the accused committed the offences on September 21, about 6.00 a.m., at Eko Akete, Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos. He said the accused stole the chicken belong to Mr

Surajudeen Adeshina, and threatened his life and that of his wife when they confronted him over its disappearance. Ighodalo said the offences contravened Sections 56 and 285 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011 which prescribe three years imprisonment for stealing. The accused pleaded not guilty. The Magistrate, Mr M.L. Owolabi, granted the accused N100, 000 bail with two sureties in the like sum. The matter was adjourned to October 27.

Teenager charged with extortion

N 18-year-old man, Hameed Isiaka, appeared yesterday before a Tinubu Magistrate’s Court in Lagos for allegedly extorting money from motorists. The accused, who resides at 20 Edu Compound, Epe, Lagos, is standing trial on a two-count charge of extortion and conspiracy. The Prosecutor, Assistant

Superintendent of Police Austin Orji, told the court that the accused committed the offences on September 27 on Lekki-Ajah expressway in Lagos. He said Isiaka and others at large, on the said date, obstructed traffic flow while extorting money from motorists. Orji said the offences contravened Sections 299

and 409 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011, which prescribe three years imprisonment for anyone found liable of extortion. The accused pleaded not guilty. The Magistrate, Mr L.A. Owolabi, granted the accused N20, 000 bail with two sureties in the like sum. He adjourned the matter to October 27.

‘Sanitation, best way to prevent disease’

ENATOR Gbenga Ashafa has implored Lagosians to join hands with Governor Babatunde Fashola in making the state free of Ebola and other diseases. Ashafa, who represents Lagos East District in the Sen-

By Wale Ajetunmobi

ate, said he joined Ikorodu residents in the monthly environmental sanitation last Saturday to spread the gospel of cleanliness. God, he said, is not found in a dirty environment.

The lawmaker, sporting a white polo shirt, a pair of black trousers and cap, moved round major roads and streets with staff of his constituency office to call out residents for the exercise. He joined them to remove waste from the drain and pack refuse on the road. Sweeping materials, such as packers, brooms and waste bags were given to the residents. At Isawo Road, Agric and Owutu, residents trooped out to join him in cleaning up their areas. He said: “I must commend the youth for turning out for the sanitation instead of playing street football. We want people to live a healthy life. To achieve this, we must always come out for the exer-

cise and make our environment free of dirt. This is the best way we can live and prosper together. “For us in the All Progressives Congress (APC), people’s welfare is paramount. We don’t want any deadly disease to break in our state. As we are removing these dirty materials from our environment, we are also preventing malaria, typhoid and other life-threatening diseases in our neighbourhood. This is why we must always come out for the exercise.” Residents hailed the lawmaker for giving them sweeping materials, adding that he showed that he has not forgotten his constituents by joining them to clean their environment, it shows that he had not forgotten them.

THE NATION TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2014

NEWS

N influential traditional ruler in Kano, Alhaji Tijani Hashim, is

dead. The Galadiman Kano and member of the Emirate Council died in his Abuja home yesterday. He was 82. The monarch is survived by three wives and 13 children. Thousands of mourners attended the funeral prayer for the deceased at the Emir’s palace in Kofar Kudu, led by the Chief Imam of Kano, Prof. Sani Zaharadeen. In attendance were VicePresident Namadi Sambo, who led the Federal Government delegation; Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso; the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II; the Emir of Ringim, Sayyadi Mahmud Ringim; Alhaji Lawal Kaita; members of the National Assembly and top government officials. The Galadiman’s remains arrived at the Malam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA) around 1:32pm and were interred at 3pm at the

Galadiman Kano dies at 82 •Jonathan, ACF mourn From Kolade Adeyemi, Kano, Augustine Ehikioya, Abuja and Abdulgafar Alabelewe, Kaduna

popular city cemetery of Dandolo in Goron Dutse. The deceased was an industrialist, a philanthropist and a godfather to many eminent Nigerians. He was an aide to the late Premier of the Northern Region and Sardauna of Sokoto, Sir Ahmadu Bello; and a cousin to former Kano Emir, the late Alhaji Ado Bayero. President Goodluck Jonathan commiserated with the emir and people of Kano on Alhaji Hashim’s death. In a statement by his media aide, Dr. Reuben Abati, Jonathan said the monarch served his people admirably as a regional minister in the First Republic and a senior member of the Kano Emirate Council. He said the Galadiman

‘He lived as one of the most influential Prince of Kano, a philanthropist and an adherent of culture and tradition whose influence was not only felt in Kano...’ would be remembered for his contributions to peace, stability and progress in his community and the country. The President prayed to God to grant the monarch eternal rest and bless Kano people with a worthy successor. The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Muhammad Ibrahim, said the late monarch was one of the most influential princes of Kano.

Adamawa youths embarrass senator

HE senator representing Adamawa South, Alhaji Ahmed Barata, who announced his return to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), was embarrassed yesterday by irate youths in his Shelleng Local Government Area. When he tried to address PDP supporters at Acting Governor Ahmadu Fintiri’s campaign rally, the youths shouted him down, singing abusive songs and blocking the way. Entreaties to the youths by State PDP Chairman Chief Joel Madaki and a prominent figure in the community, Alhaji Mohammed Shelleng, fell on deaf ears. Speaking after the youths had been pacified, Fintiri pledged to build the road linking the community to the main feeder road. Barata was an aspirant in the just concluded All Progressives Congress (APC) primary. He defected to the PDP after he lost the election. Later, Barata described the incident at the rally as the handiwork of his enemies, who were “threatened” by his return to the PDP.

It said: “ACF learnt with great shock the passing on of Alhaji Hashim, the most senior counselor in Kano Emirate. The late Galadiman Kano was a Minister in the then Northern Regional Government of the late Sir Ahmadu Bello. After the military coup of 1966, Alhaji Hashim joined Kano Emirate as a counselor, with the title of Turaki, and was promoted to Galadiman Kano. “He lived as one of the most influential Prince of Kano, a philanthropist and an adherent of culture and tradition whose influence was not only felt in Kano but the North in general. ACF and indeed Nigeria would miss his wise counseling and wisdom. “ACF mourns his death and prays Almighty Allah to forgive his sins and grant him Aljannah Firdaus. It extends its condolences to his immediate family, Kano Emirate, the government and people of Kano State on this irreparable loss.”

PDP stakeholders back Mark From Uja Emmanuel, Makurdi

EOPLES Democratic Party (PDP) stakeholders in Benue South Senatorial District have endorsed Senate President David Mark as their candidate for next year’s senatorial election. At a meeting at the weekend at Double K Hotel in Otukpo, Benue State, national and state lawmakers from Zone C, PDP chieftains, youths and women leaders, in a voice vote, adopted Mark as the sole candidate for the election. Mark, who was represented by Minister of Interior Abba Morro, said he was overwhelmed by the people’s confidence in him, saying he would not disappoint them. State PDP Chairman Agbo Emmanuel said it would be “injustice” if Mark was not returned to the senate, urging other aspirants to support the Senate president. Former Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defense, Chief Mike Okibo, has indicated interest in the senatorial seat.

10 put to bed at Yola camp

From Barnabas Manyam, Yola

EN women have put to bed at the Internally Displaced Persons’ (IDPs) Camp in Adamawa State. Fifty four others are due for delivery. Most of the over 4,500 inhabitants of the camp are from Gwoza in Borno State. A few are from Madagali, Michika, Uba, Bazza and Mubi. Adamawa State Emergency Management Agency (ADSEMA) Secretary Haruna Hamman Furo told reporters that the government was taking care of the displaced persons. He said the American University of Nigeria (AUN) was holding classes in the camp to educate the displaced persons. Furo said skill acquisition programmes were also ongoing in the camp. He said the state was registering the IDPs so that sporting and other facilities could be provided for them. Furo said the camp cooks 15 bags of rice daily and had food that can last for four months. He said the displaced persons needed tailoring and crafts materials to learn some skills. Furo praised the Federal Government and Adamawa State for sustaining the camp. He said over 8,000 IDPs, who were living with their relatives in town, were also been numbered for the smooth distribution of relief materials.

Youths back Saraki for presidency From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

GROUP, the Abubakar Bukola Saraki (ABS)-Bolaji Abdullahi Kwara South Movement, has urged Senator Bukola Saraki to contest next year’s presidential election. It said Saraki could bring about the desired change in Nigeria. Speaking with reporters in Oro, Irepodun Local Government Area, the group’s Coordinator/Chairman, Oyerinde Sanje, said: “We remain committed and loyal members of the ABS family and we are waiting for our leader, Senator Saraki, to declare for the presidency of Nigeria come 2015, as his presidency will bring change to our nation.” The group urged former Minister of Youths and Sports Bolaji Abdullahi to contest the governorship election next year, saying: “We the people of Ibolo, Igbomina and Ekiti/ Oke-Ero of Kwara South are proud of you and are ready to vote for you enmasse, if you are given the opportunity by our party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) to contest the 2015 governorship election.”

THE NATION TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 30, 2014

FOREIGN NEWS Afghanistan swears in new president

SHRAF Ghani has been sworn in as Afghanistan’s new president, replacing Hamid Karzai in the country’s first democratic transfer of power. The Kabul ceremony followed six months of deadlock amid a bitter dispute over electoral fraud and a recount of votes. Under a US-brokered unity deal Mr Ghani shares power with runner-up Abdullah Abdullah who becomes chief executive. At the swearing-in ceremony attended by up to 100 dignitaries at the presidential palace in Kabul, Mr Ghani took an oath to abide by the constitution. He said he would work for long-term peace, promised to tackle corruption and said constitutional changes were needed. In his long first speech after being sworn in as the new Afghan president, Ashraf Ghani promised reform, development, an end to poverty, measures against corruption, and a clean-up of the judiciary. But he knows that he can do nothing without security. In a year when the Taliban are conducting their biggest offensives since they fell from power in 2001, he said Afghan people were tired of war and wanted peace. He talked about the crisis in Syria and Iraq, and said that Afghanistan was an Islamic country that understood about jihad after Islamic guerrillas defeated the Russians in the 1980s. He said the country did not need any lessons from foreign fighters.

Hong Kong: Protesters defiant amid stand-off T ENS of thousands of pro-democracy protesters are blocking Hong Kong’s streets, shutting down its business hub and ignoring appeals to leave. The demonstrations have spread to other areas including a shopping district and a residential area. Riot police withdrew on Monday after overnight clashes in which they used batons and fired volleys of tear gas to try to disperse the crowds. China has warned other countries not to support the “illegal rallies”. Its foreign ministry said it opposed any interference in China’s internal affairs. Meanwhile the British gov-

ernment called for the right to protest to be protected. “It is important for Hong Kong to preserve these rights and for Hong Kong people to exercise them within the law,” the UK foreign office said in a statement. Protesters - a mix of students and supporters of the Occupy Central pro-democracy movement - are angry at Beijing’s plans to vet candidates for Hong Kong’s 2017 leadership elections. They want a free choice of candidates when they cast their ballots for the chief executive something Beijing says is out of

the question. “Tired yet defiant”: The BBC’s Laura Westbrook reports on the protesters refusing to leave Sunday saw angry scenes and dozens of arrests on Hong Kong’s streets as tens of thousands of protesters faced riot police in the heart of the city. In a news conference on Monday, Cheung Tak-keung, assistant commissioner of police for operations, said police had used the “bare minimum force”. He said 41 people had been injured in the past three days, including police officers. Some of the protesters re-

Obama: US ‘underestimated’ Islamic State threat

RESIDENT Barack Obama is acknowledging that U.S. intelligence agencies underestimated the threat from Islamic State militants in the Middle East and overestimated the ability and will of Iraq’s army to fight such extremists. Obama described the U.S. intelligence assessments in response to a question during a CBS “60 Minutes” interview that aired Sunday, in which he also conceded that the U.S. led military campaign against that group and an al-Qaida affiliate in Syria was helping Syrian dictator Bashar Assad, a man the U.N. has accused of war crimes. But Obama said he had no choice but to order U.S. air strikes on Assad’s enemies, the Islamic State and the Khorasan Group because, he said, “those folks could kill Americans.” The Islamic State group, which derived from but has broken with al-Qaida, has taken control of large sections of Iraq and Syria. The Khorasan Group is a cell of militants that the U.S. says is plotting attacks against the West in cooperation with the Nusra front, Syria’s al-Qaida affiliate. Obama was asked how Islamic State fighters had come to control so much territory in Syria and Iraq and whether it was a surprise to him. The president said that during the Iraq war, U.S. military forces with the help of Iraq’s Sunni tribes were able to quash al-Qaida fighters, who went “back underground.” “During the chaos of the Syrian civil war, where essentially you have huge swaths of the country that are completely ungoverned, they were able to reconstitute themselves and take advantage of that chaos,” Obama said, according to an excerpt release before the show aired.

•First photo of the new addition to the Clinton family, Charlotte Clinton Mezvinsky. The baby was born Saturday at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City, where the Mezvinskys live. PHOTO: DON DAVIDSON OFFICE OF PRESIDENT CLINTON

mained camped out around the government complex overnight on Sunday, sleeping on the ground and some erecting barricades. About 3,000 people have also blocked a major road across the bay in Mongkok, on the Kowloon peninsula, while a crowd of about 1,000 faced police in the busy shopping district of Causeway Bay, east of central Hong Kong. About 3,000 protesters blocked a major road across the bay in Mongkok, on the Kowloon peninsula Some protesters covered their faces with plastic wrap and goggles as an anti-tear-gas measure Earlier, police clashed with protesters attempting to block roads in central Hong Kong The Hong Kong government has urged protesters to stay calm and leave peacefully. But schools in three districts have been closed and the city remains heavily disrupted, with several major thoroughfares blocked. One man said protesters were growing more confident. “Police don’t have enough officers to close down the districts where there are protests,” Ivan Yeung, 27, told AFP news agency. Overnight, Hong Kong’s chief executive reassured the public that rumours the Chinese army might intervene were untrue. “I hope the public will keep calm. Don’t be misled by the rumours,” CY Leung said. Chief Executive CY Leung said the government was “resolute in opposing the unlawful occupation” by protesters In a statement yesterday, the movement called on Mr Leung to step down, saying “only this will make it possible to relaunch the political reform process and create a space in which the crisis can be defused”.

TODAY IN THE NATION

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2014 TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM

VOL.9

NO. 2,987

“Lasisi has further consolidated his brand: poetry as powerful social conscience. When will Akeem Lasisi, with kindred spirits like Beautiful Nubia, and even Lagabaja, jam together?”

COMMENT & DEB ATE EBA

NE of the more colourful politicians thrown up by military president Ibrahim Babangida’s duplicitous transition programme was a tall, solidly built young man who had about him an air of refinement that was accentuated by his exquisite tailoring. His trademark dog-eared cap, a sentimental archaism then but now a la mode, bespoke a cultured sensibility. But what he inspired most was fear – primal fear. I cannot vouch that he ever knocked one olatunji.dare@thenationonlineng.net of his commissioners into unconscious during a cabinet meeting to consider the state’s appropriations, or that he ever lifted any of his permanent secretaries by the ears and slammed him onto the wall some 30 feet away. But tales of his predilection for that kind of behaviour was the stuff of political gossip, and had led to his being called – behind his back, of course, and clearly out of his hearing range – Serubawon, literally, the one who scares them witless. Even if the tales were apocryphal, they put associates and adversaries alike on notice that to trifle with His Excellency Serubawon was to court danger. But somehow, the governor’s reputation for getting things done without fuss and without challenge seemed not to have registered on the State Assembly, in which his party, the one that was a Little to the Left, held practically all the •Chief Justice Mariam •Adoke seats. Aloma Mukhtar Where he sought to move at a furious a real partner in progress with the state’s corded perfectly with the finest traditions gallop, the legislators seemed to love chief executive, Isiaka Adeleke. of democracy and freedom of expression. nothing better than hearing their own Fast forward to 1999, when Nigeria emI was led to these reminiscences by revoices proposing, amending and raising barked on a fresh attempt at plebiscitary cent developments in Ekiti, where Goverpoints of order. democracy. Almost from the moment he One cold, dusty morning in December, took office as governor, Abia State was in nor-elect Ayodele Fayose instigated or per1992, as the legislators were settling down ferment. The air was saturated with talk of sonally led a phalanx of okada operators and for business in the State Assembly just across impeachment, with assassination plots, motor-park touts and thugs-for-hire to storm from the central market in Osogbo, they cabinet shuffles and threats of cabinet the courts hearing petitions against his election, beat up judges and other officers of the espied a motley crowd armed with shovels, shuffles thrown in as comic relief. court, in one instance renting a judge’s garpick-axes, machetes and all manner of cudMatters took an alarmingly violent turn ment and shredding court documents. gels. Before they could figure what it was on June 26, 2,000, when hundreds of youths Even in Nigeria, there is no precedent for all about, the Assembly was under siege. reportedly incensed by rumours that the Shouting foul imprecations and bellow- legislature was plotting to impeach Gov- such barbarous conduct. It is the contention of the petitioners that ing blood-curdling threats, the invaders ernor Orji Kalu, descended upon the State smashed their way into the chamber and Assembly in busloads. They smashed up Fayose had perjured himself in the election set upon the legislators with maniacal the place, battered those legislators they re- papers he filed with INEC, and that his candidature was incurably flawed. As if to confury. garded as Kalu’s opponents and helped Casting off their ornately embroidered themselves to whatever they could haul firm the charge, Fayose says the proceedings were designed to forestall his being agbada with practised ease and displaying away. sworn in on October 16 and that the judges the comprehensive agility of the Mission accomplished, the mob headed had been compromised. decathlete, many of them escaped through to the Abia White House on a solidarity visit The petition may lack merit, but why not windows no wider than a computer moni- to Kalu, who, in keeping with his open-door allow the judicial process to run its course? tor. policy, welcomed them. He listened attenFayose’s tenure as governor ended in Some hid for hours in stuffy broom cup- tively to their report on the sacking of the boards and in the very toilets that had State Assembly and other measures they had scandal on a scale almost beyond belief, imdrawn their withering censure only the taken to “sanitise” the undutiful legislative peachment and disgrace. He has been charged with serious fraud and accused of previous week during a debate on the branch. complicity in the murder of two political physical plant. Kalu rose magnificently to the occasion. It was a focused, results-oriented As- Their intervention, he told his visitors, ac- opponents. His election last June to the same office remains one of the greatest comebacks sembly that reconvened two weeks later,

OLATUNJI DARE

AT HOME ABROAD

Serubawon in Ado-Ekiti

‘

Hallowed precincts of justice are desecrated and high officers of the judiciary violently assaulted in the course of duty, but it is of no concern to Adoke. This is a shameful dereliction of duty.

’

RIPPLES JONATHAN PROMISES TO FIX ALL FEDERAL ROADS IN THE COUNTRY –News

Yes, 2015 is around the corner

HARDBALL

HY not now? Those in a position to answer the question could easily have acted in a way that would have made the poser out of the question. There is no riddle here. Hardball is simply talking about this year’s edition of a ceremony that is increasingly justifying the tag of a hollow ritual. Indeed, to call it by its formal name, the National Honours’ Award Ceremony sounds awkward because it has lost its soul and has become soulless; these two things may not be the same. Speaking of souls, particularly the souls of the dead, there must have been quite a few who in their ethereal form attended the September 29 investiture at the International Conference Centre, Abuja. Perhaps they were at the venue just to see the spectacular show organised by the living dead. Or is there a better description for those who are biologically alive but morally dead? The celebration of deadened consciousness, which the event projected on account of glaring and jarring omissions in the list of awardees, represented yet another instance of institutional ingratitude. In this specific case, the institution is no other than the Presidency. It would take a phenomenal leap of the

Blind exclusion imagination to grasp the Presidency’s insensitive treatment of the memory of those who recently paid the ultimate price and made a supreme sacrifice for the country. It would probably be more appropriate to call it an egregious insult which the departed do not deserve. What is even more unacceptably unthinking and unfeeling is the reality that there was enough time for the Goodluck Jonathan administration to correct its monumental error, even though the blunder shouldn’t have happened in the first place. What is more, between September 19 when the full list of awardees was publicised and September 29 when they were decorated, there were loud calls from concerned quarters highlighting the nauseating exclusion. Two of such wake-up calls will suffice. The Chairman, Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Cross River State chapter, Dr. Callistus Enyuma, said: “One would expect that she should not be neglected when honours are given. I believe it is not too late for her to be included on the honours’ list. She must have that honour.” Next, the

OLAKUNLE ABIMBOLA

in the annals of politics. It was widely expected that he would use this second chance to redeem himself; that he would eschew the sophomoric stunts and the predilection for violence that had marked his earlier tenure, and that he would conduct himself and the affairs of Ekiti State with the decorum that the high office of governor demands. But Fayose, being Fayose, loosed mayhem on the state capital even before taking office, leaving no doubt as to what he would do on taking charge. There was a time, not long ago, when I could have wagered that they will not find a judge in Ekiti to swear him in after his execrable conduct. Not anymore; some judges in the state’s judiciary may well be falling over themselves already for the privilege of administering the oath of office on October 16. Cry, oh cry, Land of Honour. No less execrable than Fayose’s conduct is the funereal silence in Abuja, a silence heard around the world. Not a word of admonition, much less condemnation, has come from President Goodluck Jonathan, who is in full reelection campaign mode, even serving notice in Benin City right before Governor Adams Oshiomhole that the PDP was set to “capture” Edo State and Rivers State where the APC currently holds power. Nothing, not even a brazen assault on the judiciary, can deflect him for a moment from his consuming quest for a second term, especially when the assault is perpetrated by his associates. What will it take to make Dr Jonathan learn that, over and above being leader of the PDP, he is president of Nigeria, enjoined to faithfully uphold the Constitution and to serve the entire citizenry, not just supporters of his party? Nor has any word come from the nation’s chief law officer, the AttorneyGeneral and Minister of Justice, Bello Adoke (SAN). Hallowed precincts of justice are desecrated and high officers of the judiciary violently assaulted in the course of duty, but it is of no concern to Adoke. This is a shameful dereliction of duty. If Fayose gets away with this criminal assault, he will most likely take a chapter from Isiaka Adeleke’s Osun and Orji Kalu’s Abia to pummel into acquiescence members of the Ekiti State Assembly, virtually all of whom belong in the APC. They face a clear and present danger, but cannot expect any protection from the Federal Government, nor from the police. The one is an agent of the PDP, and the other is an instrument of the Federal Government . I do not envy the lawmakers in the least. •For comments, send SMS to 08111813080

•Hardball is not the opinion of the columnist featured above President of Jojaina Deck of the National Association of Seadogs, Mr. Fabian Avoh, said: Let us ask the Federal Government or precisely the Presidency what yardstick was used in including all sorts of people on the list of the highest honour in the land when Adadevoh, who sacrificed her life, was not on the list.” In a reasonable context, the inclusion of Dr. Ameyo Stella Adadevoh who died on August 19 should have been beyond question. She was the most prominent among the country’s health care workers who died of Ebola Virus Disease after contracting it from the Liberian- American Patrick Sawyer who brought it into the country and died from it on July 25. Instructively, the Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Jide Idris, said of her role: “She it was who took the initiative to intimate the ministry concerning the index case; and substantially to her credit, the moderate containment achieved we owe to her and her colleagues.” There is no doubt that the professional intervention of Adadevoh and others arrested the possibility of a wide-spread dispersal of the deadly virus. The Jonathan administration must be suffering from inattentional blindness.

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