September 30, 2015

Newspaper of the Year

•Falae: Police probe ransom payment to kidnappers P7 •House gets Kwara governor’s commissioners’ list P51 •Buhari seeks Senate’s confirmation for Fowler, others P48 •Kingpin held as troops gun down Boko Haram chief P51 •Nigeria’s widest circulating newspaper

VOL. 10, NO. 3352 WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

I will head Petroleum Ministry, Page 50 says Buhari NEWS

•www.thenationonlineng.net

TR UTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM TRUTH

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Boardroom guru Onosode dies at 82 •Buhari, Ambode, Anyaoku, Tinubu, others mourn

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AMALIEL Onosode, frontline industrialist, skillful boardroom player, financial consultant and renowned administrator, died yesterday in Lagos. He was 82.

Tributes came in torrents from the high and mighty, among whom he was numbered.

President Muhammadu Buhari, governors, industrialists and other eminent Nigerians paid homage to the

•The late Onosode

By Our Reporters

character and achievements of the former presidential aspirant.

Onosode’s son, Ese, in a terse

statement, announced that his father died at 8.15am.

At the late Onosode’s home in Surulere, Lagos Mainland, his widow, Susan, was prevented from speaking to reporters by family members.

A condolence register was opened in front of the building.

The register was placed on a table, decorated with flowers and with the portrait of the late Onosode, with his gleaming trademark hair pattern.

Dignitaries were steaming.

Among them were the Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Prof. Rahman Bello, Continued on page 6

•Honeywell Group Chairman Dr. Oba Otudeko speaking at Honeywell Flour Mills, Sixth Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Lagos...yesterday. With him are: Managing Director Olanrewaju Jaiyeola (left) and Company Secretary Mrs. Oluwayemisi Busari.

P49 384 CAPITAL MARKET OPERATORS CLEARED P46 •INSIDE: 6,000MW COMING, SAYS OSINBAJOP49

Buhari on Saraki’s trial: law will take its course

Uproar in Senate as 83 lawmakers back leadership What has the President got to do with ‘ P it as a person? The case is in court. Do RESIDENT Muhammadu Buhari will not interfere in the ongoing trial of Senate President Bukola Saraki.

He will allow the court process to run its course, the President said yesterday in New York.

Saraki is facing trial before the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) for alleged false assets declaration. The tribunal has fixed October 21-23

From Adeola Fayehun, New York and Onyedi Ojiabor, Abuja

to hear the matter.

Saraki’s supporters are said to be pleading with emirs and other prominent citizens to put in a word for the Senate president. But Buhari told our correspondent in an interview that it would be an impeachable offence if he intervened.

Here are exerpts from the interview:

Nigerians expect me to tell the Chief Justice to tell whichever court that they shouldn’t try the Senate president?

The Senate president is facing alleged false assets declaration allegations but you've been aloof from the case. What is your position on

’

the issue?

“What has the President got to do with it as a person? The case is in court. Do Nigerians expect me to tell the Chief Jus-

tice to tell whichever court that they shouldn’t try the Senate president?

“Do Nigerians know about the constitution of their own country? The judiciary, the legislature and the executive have got their own roles within the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Then, how do they expect me to interfere?

I can be successfully impeached if I do it.

Today in Abuja, at least 82

senators passed a vote of confidence on the Senate President. That is a significant number of senators.

However, Nigerians will like to know, as the president, how confident are you in the senate president?

That would depend on the outcome of the court’s decision.

Are you on speaking terms with the Senate presContinued on page 6

244 Nigerians missing as Hajj death toll hits 64 From Austine Tsenzughul, Bauchi and Leke Akeredolu, Akure

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HE grim reality of the Mina, Saudi Arabia stampede was further highlighted yesterday with the news that Nigeria’s death toll had hit 64.

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) said in Makkah that 10 more bodies were identified, raising the toll from 54 to 64.

The commission’s Public Affairs Director, Uba WILL THE Mana, said 244 pilgrims CHIBOK were missing.

GIRLS EVER RETURN? Continued on page 6

?

•President Muhammadu Buhari (left) speaking at a summit on violent extremism in New York...yesterday. Listening are United States President Barack Obama (right), Secretary of State John Kerry and others.

•LIFE P13 •SPORT P20 •MONEY P22 •INVESTORS P24 •POLITICS P39 •FOREIGN P53

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

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NEWS Apparently to halt the yearly loss of N360 billion to rice importation, the Federal Government came up with a policy aimed at achieving selfsufficiency in local production in 2013. It has a plan to ban rice importation by the end of this year. But, the policy is threatened by smuggling, which has also put investors in the rice value chain under intense pressure. The investors fear their multi-billion naira investment might go down the drain, unless measures are taken now to stem smuggling, writes Assistant Editor CHIKODI OKEREOCHA. •Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode (middle), Assistant Director, Office of Executive Secretary, Nigeria Christian Pilgrims Commission, Dr. Ifeoma Unachukwu (left); Executive Secretary of the Commission, Mr. John Kennedy Opara second left); Federal Commissioner representing Southwest, Deaconess Adefemi Taire (second right) and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs, Mrs. Grace Oladimeji, when the Commission's management visited the governor at the Lagos House, Ikeja...yesterday.

•Former United States President Bill Clinton flanked by Group Chief Strategy Officer, Dangote Group, Dr. Abdu Mukhtar and Executive Director, Dangote Group, Halima Aliko-Dangote, after President/Chief Executive, Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote received an award for Leadership in the Private Sector at the Clinton Global Citizens’ Award in New York...on Monday.

•From left: Assistant Director, Special Insured Institutions Department, Nigerian Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), Mrs. Ajigbewu Nurat; Sales & Distribution Executive, MTN Nigeria, Mr.'Tsola Barrow; Managing Director, LAPO Microfinance Bank, Dr. Godwin Ehigiamuose and Assistant Director, Central Bank Of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Jonathan Tobin, at the launch of 'MTN BizGrow' in partnership with LAPO in Lagos.

•From left: Public Relations & Talent Lead, AfricaMagic, Efosa Aiyevbomwan; artiste Jude Abaga (a.k.a MI) and General Manager, Mobile Apps, Tecno Mobile, Oye Akindeinde, at a news conference on Tecno Own the Stage Karaoke Contest, at Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos.

PHOTO; BOLA OMILABU

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FTER sinking a princely $100 million into the cultivation of rice on 7, 500 hectares of farm and on the construction of two integrated rice mills, each with capacity to process 150, 000 tons of paddy rice per annum, Messrs Pearl Universal Impex, a major rice importer has every reason to be expectant. The prospect of a bountiful return on on its investment and other spin-offs, have put owners of the company in a joyous mood.

Company Chairman Pulkit Jain personified the owners’ excitement when he gleefully announced that the investment would create over 4, 000 direct jobs and 20, 000 indirect jobs through its out-grower’s scheme. He broke the news when he hosted Niger State Governor Abubakar Sani Bello at the company’s rice farms in the state.

Jain’s announcement was also a sweet melody to residents and rice farmers in Borgu and Bida local government areas of the Northcentral state, host communities of the company’s parboiling mills’ and drying facilities.

“We will also support the outgrower farmers by providing them with technical know-how, improved seedlings, fertilisers, pesticides and subsequently procure high quality paddy from them to feed the rice mills,” he said.

According to him, by investing in the cultivation and milling of scientifically-tested high-yielding varieties of rice, his company was helping the Federal Government achieve its target of self-sufficiency in rice production.

Three years ago, the Federal Government launched a new rice policy and set a 2015 target for the realisation of self-sufficiency in rice production. The policy, initiated by the immediate past administration of President Goodluck Jonathan, is part of the Backward Integration Policy (BIP) and economic diversification agenda, which President Muhammadu Buhari has promised retain and pursue.

The objective is to cut down on daily rice import bill, estimated at N1 billion, encourage local production of rice and offer investors in the rice sub-sector incentives to invest.

It (policy) is directed at saving the country the embarrassing paradox of a nation that boasts of more than 60 per cent arable land and manpower to support local rice production, but spends N360 billion to import rice.

“Our target is that we should produce enough rice locally to feed our people and ultimately become a net exporter of rice,” President, African Development Bank (AfDB), Dr. Akinwumi Adesina said at the launch of the policy during his tenure as the Minister of Agriculture & Rural Development.

Expectedly, many investors bought into the policy in the rice sub-sector and encouraged by a combination of patriotism and anticipation of a highly rewarding investment, investors across the entire rice value chain including farmers, processors/millers, importers, and marketers embraced the policy.

Apart from Pearl Universal Impex, which was importing 350,000 metric

tonnes of rice annually, but decided to invest in local production to aid the government’s self-sufficiency target in rice production, Dangote Industries Limited (DIL) has also thrown its hat into the rice production ring.

DIL President Alhaji Aliko Dangote, recently announced in Abuja, the investment of $1 billion (about N165 billion) on rice production and processing in five states of Edo, Jigawa, Kebbi, Kwara and Niger.

The Nation learnt that DIL has acquired 150,000 hectares of land in those states for the project, which when developed, will be the largest single investment in rice production in Africa.

The project, seen as a shot in the arm of government’s on-going reforms of the Agricultural Transformation Agenda (ATA), which was launched in 2011, followed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between DIL and the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development.

According to the MoU, the indigenous multinational will establish two state-of-the-art mills with a capacity to process 120,000 metric tons of paddy each, bringing the combined capacity to 240,000 metric tons, with plans to double the capacity in two years. The rice plant is estimated to produce 960,000 metric tons of milled rice, representing 46 per cent of imported rice.

Olam Nigeria Limited, another major investor, has unveiled plans to increase its stake in the rice industry.

Specifically, the company, according to its General Manager, Mr. Reji George, will begin the processing of 200,000 metric tonnes of paddy rice in Doma Local Government Area of Nassarawa State this year. He said his firm’s integration plan will aid local rice production and job creation.

The plan came on the heels of the introduction of the company’s locallyproduced rice to the Nigerian market in Lagos. Olam’s Business Head for Rice, Anil Nair, explained that the company is into commercial rice production with 6, 000 hectares in two cities. The 12,000 hectares would definitely assist in bridging the demand and supply gap.

According to him, Olam’s involvement in local rice production will assist Nigeria in becoming selfsufficient in rice production.

Spanner in the works However, palpable fear and apprehension has gripped investors over the fate of their investments following the rising wave of rice smuggling into the country.

The latest figures made available by the Patriotic Rice Association of Nigeria (PRAN), show that 80,000 metric tonnes of rice are smuggled into the country through the porous land borders with Benin Republic every month, with the revenue loss hitting N10 billion.

In the conservative estimate given by the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS), the economy lost over N27 billion to rice smuggling through the land border with Benin Republic in the last four months.

According to reliable sources, thousands of metric tonnes of rice from

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

3

NEWS

•A rice plantation.

•..Some bags of processed rice.

How smugglers hamper rice policy, frustrate investors India, Thailand, Singapore and other Asian countries berth at the ports of Benin Republic and Cameroun for onward dumping in the country.

The President, Rice Millers Importers and Distributors Association of Nigeria (RiMIDAN) and Chairman, Rice Investors Group, Mr. Tunji Owoeye, echoed the frustrations of investors when, at a meeting with the Presidential Committee on Trade Malpractice in Abuja, he lamented that while the local rice producers are working hard to aid government’s self-sufficiency plan, some importers are taking advantage of the free trade zones to import rice and deny the country of much needed revenue.

Owoeye alleged that neighbouring countries are taking advantage of the disconnect in the rice policy to exploit Nigeria.

“They ship in quite a large number of parboiled rice into Benin Republic and Cameroun, but we know that the rice is destined for Nigerian markets and government has taken note of that,” Owoeye told the Committee, claiming that the country loses $1 billion daily on rice smuggling.

Why smugglers hold the ace Apparently to achieve selfsufficiency in local production, the Federal Government increased the tax on imported rice from 50 to 110 per cent in January 2013. That was a 60 per cent increase. The tax was to encourage locally produced and processed rice and significantly trim down import, that has been gulping N360 billion annually in foreign exchange before a total ban this year.

However, government’s solution in form of a higher tariff regime on importation became the problem. The tariff imposed on the commodity and the consequent higher market prices opened the floodgate for smugglers to push large volumes of rice into the local market with zero duty, a development that is now making the self-sufficiency target in rice production to hang in the balance.

Also at stake are the multi-billion investments of by private investors in local production.

Some industry operators told The Nation that as soon as Nigeria announced the tariff hike, some neighbouring countries such as Benin, Niger, Cameroon, Chad and Gabon, among others, pulled a fast one by quickly lowering their own tariffs on rice. The duty differentials between Nigeria and its West African neigbours encouraged

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Economy, investors hurting

importers of rice, Alhaji Habilu Maishinkafa, is livid. He said a bleak future is steering investors in the face because of the upsurge in the activities of rice smugglers.

He lamented that the rate of smuggling of the commodity remains quite high, with concomitant effects of loss of investment, market share, job losses, revenue and increase in youth unemployment. The PRAN chair said large scale investments in farming and milling industries by private businesses are being jeopardised by the free reign of rice smugglers.

Explaining the process of rice production, experts say the farmers must plant rice and produce paddy (raw) rice, sell the paddy rice to the processors, who turn the rice into finished products.

They lamented that the processors no longer buy paddy from the farmers in sufficient quantities because the price is not attractive for business.

Noting, for instance, that local rice farms and milling plants have been unable to impact on host communities as they are supposed to following the ugly development, Maishinkafa expressed fears that the rice policy is gradually being eroded in view of the unrestrained activities of economic saboteurs, illegal importers and smugglers. He appealed to the Federal Government to tighten the porous borders.

Against the backdrop of the Buhari administration’s avowed commitment to boost the nation’s agricultural sector, PRAN appealed to the government to help its members contribute to the realisation of the dream of self-sufficiency in rice, stating that it was ready to partner with the administration to realise the dream.

The rice dealers added that there is the need to sustain the synergy earlier formed between the Federal Government and the organisation to achieve the production and supply value chain on rice.

According to them, the new rice policy of backward integration was a step in the right direction, which should not be reversed by the current administration, the group observed that for the first time, the government was making conscientious efforts to jump-start local production and shield investors from the onslaught of international importers and daring smugglers.

The Chairman of PRAN, an association of local growers and legal

•continued on page 52

With the influx of cheaper rice through these routes, local rice producers and processors have been losing sleeps because they cannot compete with the prices of smuggled rice •Mr. Owoeye

smuggling from all parts of the globe.

For instance, in response to Nigeria’s 110 per cent tariff on imported rice, the Republic of Benin and Cameroun are said to have crashed their import duty on rice to as low as 30 per cent. Some unscrupulous Nigerian businessmen also relocated their businesses to Benin and Cameroon, a development that is further fuelling smuggling.

Benin and Cameroon have become the destinations of choice for rice imports meant en route the Nigerian market. For these neighbouring countries, Nigeria’s large market size of 170 million people and over 300 entry points are too tempting to ignore. Through such illegal entry points, shipments diverted to neighboring countries by major rice exporters from South and Southeast Asia found their way into the country.

The illegal routes are located in Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Kwara, Cross River, Rivers, Taraba, Borno, Adamawa, Kastina, Sokoto and Zamfara states.

With the influx of cheaper rice through these routes, local rice producers and processors have been losing sleeps because they cannot compete with the prices of smuggled rice.

Globally, Nigeria ranks next to China in rice importation, consuming between 5.5 million metric tonnes and six million metric tonnes of rice yearly at an estimated value of N360 billion, according to Dr. Olusegun Aganga, the former Minister of Industry, Trade & Investment.

While 1.8 million metric tonnes are produced locally, the country imports

‘

3.7 million metric tonnes annually.

More than 50 per cent of this 3.7 million metric tonnes that find their way into the country are said to be smuggled in through the land borders and other unapproved routes.

Presently, local rice production accounts for less than 50 per cent of the country’s total consumption, leaving a huge demand gap for polished/milled rice imported from India, Thailand and Brazil.

The Chairman of Seaport Terminal Operators Association of Nigeria (STOAN), Vicky Haastrup, puts the local production capacity at 30 per cent.

“It is a fact that local production cannot match local demand, which creates a recipe for smuggling,” she said.

According to her, “our neighbouring countries are profiting from the policy by dropping their own tariffs on rice, and because they are benefitting, they give tacit support to these smugglers.”

She said that rather than encourage local production, the 110 per cent policy will stifle it because of the high smuggling rate.

To Haastrup and other stakeholders, the nation’s chances of achieving the rice self-sufficiency target by this year will continue to getting slimmer unless government stems cross-border smuggling. The country is already in the last quarter of the year and the antismuggling campaign has not gathered enough steam for the realisation of the target.

Beyond cross-border smuggling, which has been a pain in investors’s neck, the consumption preference of Nigerians for imported rice to the detriment of locally-produced rice has

•Col. Ali

not helped matters.

The market boasts of high-quality and well-packaged Nigerian rice such as Quarra Rice, Umza Rice, Ebony Super Rice, Eko Rice, Mikap Rice, Ashi Rice, Queen of the Niger, Ofada Rice, Abakaliki Rice and Mama’s Pride, among others, which are more nutritious than foreign brands. But, partly because of their penchant for foreign-made products, and partly because of the price difference between the local and foreign brands, many Nigerians still prefer imported rice.

However, rice investors insist that they have the capacity to meet local demand for rice if the right policy and investment climate are put in place to de-emphasize massive importation of the commodity, which in turn breeds smuggling. The investors are therefore of the view that government should assist rice farmers to boost the rice value chain by helping them secure arable land for rice cultivation and providing other inputs such as pesticides, fertilisers, and highyielding, disease-resistant varieties, among others.

“We, as Nigerian investors have made sacrifices by paying higher duties for the importation of rice through the official channels, while some of our members have begun the backward integration process for rice value-chain. We cannot allow smugglers to keep destroying these investments,” said Bunmi Owolabi, a local rice farmer in Kogi State.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

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NEWS

Why we banned donkeys in Northeast, by military •Says about 200 surrendered insurgents de-radicalised

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HE military has said it banned donkeys in the Northeastern part of the country to impede fleeing terrorists from using them to wreak havoc.

Director of Defence Information (DDI) Colonel Rabe Abubakar said this during a visit to The Nation headquarters in Lagos.

He stated that the ban was necessary in view of the dismantled Boko Haram terrorist attacks on soft targets.

According to him, since the insurgents do not have vehicles, they resorted to the use of donkeys, a common practice in the region that will not arouse suspicion.

Col. Abubakar also spoke on the recent attack by terrorists at the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp in Adamawa State, noting that it would have been more disastrous save for the presence of military personnel at the camps.

He stated that the bombers blew themselves up around the warehouse after they could not enter the main camp where women and children were.

“Tremendous improvement has been recorded by the military, having had what it takes to prosecute this war. We have the right leadership, armament and equipment, and the morale of the troops is now high.

“Most importantly, the whole structure has been streamlined in such a way that every segment in the force has been allotted responsibilities to execute in fighting the war. “Boko Haram’s cell and its affiliated centre of gravity have been smashed and operations will continue to the next level to ensure they are completely decimated so that our nation can be one and never again could any territory of

•Col. Abubakar...yesterday

By Precious Igbonwelundu

this country be claimed by any group. We are working round the clock and all areas formerly under the control of the terrorists are now fully under us.

“A lot of security apparatus have been updated and personnel are physically on ground to ensure the safety of displaced persons at the general areas where they are before returning to their communities.

“We are mindful of the fact that there have been some soft target attacks here and there, in the form of suicide bombing, and we want to say that it is one of the characteristics of insurgents the world over.

“When they are completely degraded, the next thing they do is to ensure that they attack soft targets where harmless people are, but they lack the capability to confront the force. These kinds of things I believe may continue for sometime. Even with that, the military is not in anyway folding its arms. We are equally

replanning and adopting different strategies.

“That is why we banned the use of donkeys, horses in that general area. We discovered that the insurgents now use them because they do not have vehicles. We had to ban the use of animals, it is not a convenient thing but we must understand that the security and safety of our country and citizens is paramount.”

Col. Abubakar also said the military has de-radicalised about 200 surrendered insurgents, who he said were still being investigated and rehabilitated.

He admitted that some of them were surrendering because they could no longer withstand the military’s attacks, adding that the Defence Headquarters was planning to put a channel in place to receive and treat repented terrorists in accordance with international best practices.

While noting that the multinational Joint Task Force (JTF) had blocked the entry

and exit channels of the Sambisa Forest, Abubarkar said the terrorists inside the forest had been restricted and denied access to logistics.

On the whereabouts of the abducted Chibok girls, he admitted that the issue was yet to be resolved, just as he noted that hundreds of other hostages were freed regularly and taken to Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps.

He discountenanced the purported recordings recently made by Boko Haram leader, Abubakar Shekau, describing him as extremely insignificant in the ongoing war.

“Shekau is extremely insignificant in the ongoing war.

He is an individual and if he was alive and relevant, he would have come out.”

While commending this newspaper for its responsible reporting of security issues, and for supporting the security agencies in the war, Abubarkar noted that the fight against terrorism cannot be won with the guns alone.

PDP: we 'll win Kogi, Bayelsa governorship polls

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HE Peoples Democracy Party (PDP) yesterday declared that the party will win the upcoming governorship elections in Kogi and Bayelsa states, saying the two states are traditionally PDP strongholds.

According to the party, no amount of propaganda or intimidation from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) will take the states away from the PDP. The PDP pleaded with President Muhammadu Buhari not to succumb to the temptation

From Gbade Ogunwale, Abuja

of abusing national institutions during the November and December governorship elections in the two states.

Acting National Chairman of the party, Prince Uche Secondus made the declarations while presenting certificate of return to the party’s candidates, Governors Idris Wada and Seriaka Dickson of Kogi and Bayelsa states respectively.

Secondus said, “PDP is ready for Kogi and Bayelsa elections.

We have started door-to-door

campaigns. Controversies are trailing the APC primaries. We don’t know what they are planning. Are they planning to rig the election in connivance with INEC and the security agencies?”

The party chair called on the security agencies and INEC to play by the rule of the game, assuring that the PDP? would conduct a decent campaign and that the party would win the elections.

Prince Secondus said nothing has changed since APC took over the reins of power at the

centre, noting that many jobs have been lost because many companies have folded up while others have left the country.

“People are suffering. The economy is biting harder. Jobs have been lost. The answer is PDP in Kogi and Bayelsa states”, he stated.

Governor Wada said at the event that his party’s primary had galvanised the people of Kogi state, even as he promised to intensify efforts at reconciling aggrieved members of the party in the state.

Osinbajo to inaugurate solar power grid

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ICE President Yemi Osinbajo will inaugurate a 24 KW PV solarbased mini-grid project in Bisanti Village in Niger State.

It is the brainchild ofGreen Village Electricity (GVE) Projects Ltd and Community Energy Africa.The inauguration is slated for next Tuesday.

A statement on the project reads: “ In July 2015, GVE Ltd in collaboration with the Bank of Industry (BOI)/ United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and the Institute of Electrical Electronics (IEEE) announced the implementation of a 24kW PV solar based mini-grid pilot project. The project was aimed at field-testing and commercial viability of adopting renewable energy for off-grid rural electrification. The project created 60 direct jobs during the course of implementation while creating an estimated N2.75million ($13,000.00) in wealth in the beneficiary community through construction, survey, labour and other related expenditure.

The project is estimated to offsets about 365.2 metric tons of CO2 annually in the community thereby preserving

•Osinbajo

the natural environment while enhancing the living standard of the inhabitants.

“This project has led to the transfer of knowledge by training locals to oversee the daily operation of the site (post-implementation). The project currently serves 200 households (i.e. 1,600 people at 8 persons per household).

“The project with a total cost of $250,000 was financed 90 per cent by Bank of Industry Nigeria through equity and debt financing and a 10 per cent Grant support from the IEEE. The initiative has a very sound financial model based on a pay-as-you go system and is very reliable yet extremely affordable to the low income rural dwellers.”

Wike opens defence today •INEC: we're satisfied with our witnesses

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IVERS State Governor Nyesom Wike will this morning open the defence in the petition filed against his election by the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its candidate, Dr. Dakuku Peterside.

APC and Peterside want the Justice Suleiman Ambursa-led three-man to nullify the election of Wike on the grounds that violence prevented people from voting and that figures were subsequently allocated to candidates.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) yesterday closed its defence at the Rivers State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal.

Some of the witnesses brought by the INEC were presiding officers and electoral officers from different polling units in different local government areas in the state.

INEC, who is the 1st respondent, closed its defense after producing a total of 16 witnesses from different local government areas of the state to testify.

The petitioners are also challenging the conduct of INEC and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the 3rd respondent at the election.

The petitioners were seeking for the nullification on the ground that the election was marred by irregularities and fraudulent practices.

Counsel to the INEC, Mr Onyechi Ikpeazu (SAN) told the tribunal chairman that INEC had exhausted its defence and therefore, it would be closing its defence.

Ikpeazu said the witnesses presented by INEC and the documents tendered have proved that the elections were held peacefully in line with the Electoral Act and INEC guidelines.

Ruling on the INEC application for the closure of its defence, the tribunal Chairman adjourned sitting to Wednesday for Wike to open his defense.

Ikpeazu told reporters that the number of witnesses called by the commission were in line with the allegations made by Peterside.

“We are satisfied with 16 witnesses who conducted the Rivers State Governorship Election in communities where the petitioner had alleged violence.

“The 16 witnesses are enough to prove that the election was held peacefully, contrary to the petitioners’ allegations.

“The witnesses are not called for the fun of it, but for the specific purpose of proving our case,” Ikpeazu said.

Senator Tinubu: I didn’t get my husband’s support for re-election

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ENATOR Oluremi Tinubu yesterday said she did not get the support of her husband, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, to run for second term.

Tinubu, Lagos Central Senatorial District, spoke while answering questions at the ongoing “Women in Government” conference organised by the SouthWest Region of the Department For International Development (DFID).

The conference was organised in collaboration with the Lagos State Office of the Deputy Governor.

She said it was her district leaders who got the form for her and talked her husband into allowing her to run for the position.

She said: “ Asiwaju likes his wife to be at home and what is more confusing to me is that most Muslim men do not want their wives to work, but I am a hard worker.

“People have been saying

that I got to this position because I am Asiwaju’s wife.

“What they did not realise is that in the past election, my husband asked me not to go for a second term.

“It was the leaders in my district that got me the form and talked to him that they wanted me to go back.

“You can go to my district, the elites might not know me but the grassroots are the ones supporting and voting massively for me.

“I think that is enough for

me and that is how you can get elected, you have to really identify with your people; if really know your people, they will stand up for you,’’ she said.

Tinubu said she fought and worked hard as it was difficult getting the vote of the masses.

“When I got the bill to run for primaries, I told my husband that I needed money and he said no money.

“I fought with the people in my constituency because

they said I have to give them more money and I said no, what about the ones I have been giving to you before?

“If you are not going to vote, so be it. They said that they were just voting for me because of Asiwaju and I responded that Asiwaju is not even supporting me, then, you can go and vote for him. But I’m grateful they voted for me.

“I have realised that when you are elected, you have to go back and work with your

•Senator Tinubu

constituency because that is where your support and vote rests,’’ she said.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

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NEWS Dogara seeks fairness in Saraki trial From: Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi, Abuja

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•Chairman of the occasion, Chief Olusegun Osunkeye (second right) presenting a plaque to the Guest Speaker and Deputy Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria, Dr. Joseph O. Nnanna (third left) at the 2015 Annual Conference on Corporate Governance 10th Anniversary Celebration, theme: The Impact of Corporate Governance: The Nigeria Case at Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island , Lagos...yesterday. With them are from right: Dean, Lagos Business School, Dr. (Mrs.) Enase Okonedo, Group Chief Executive Officer, Computer Warehouse Group, Mr. Austin Okere and Director, Society for Corporate Governance, Mrs. Clara Omatseye.

PDP Reps shoot down motion to probe MDAs on misappropriated $4.2 trillion

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HE House of Representatives yesterday missed an opportunity to aid the anti-corruption drive of President Mohammadu Buhari. A motion to investigate misappropriation and non-remittance of funds

by Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDA) was rejected.

The mover of the motion, Chike Okafor (APC, Imo) withdrew it after being told that the motion was defective and wrongly phrased.

Signs that the motion would not see the light of the day emerged shortly before the mover took the floor when the Chief Whip, Hassan Doguwa (APC, Kano) had to disperse a group of PDP lawmakers, led by the Minority Leader, Leo

From Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi, Abuja

Ogor, who were clustered in a corner discussing in low tones.

Doguwa said if the PDP caucus wants to hold a meeting, they should go to Wadata House and not on the floor when plenary was on.

The group dispersed immediately and plenary continued.

Okafor was seeking the approval of the House to mandate the Committees on Finance, Petroleum Resources (Downstream or Upstream) and Gas Resources, when constituted, to investigate the allegations and report back to the House within four weeks for further legislative input.

In his argument, Okafor said Section 88 and part 1, second

schedule of the 1999 Constitution vested on the National Assembly the powers to make laws for the order, peace and good governance in Nigeria.

This is in addition to the investigation of action of any person or authority charged with the duty of administering laws or disbursing money appropriated by the National Assembly.

He also noted that the sum of $4b was paid as taxes and dividends by the Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) between 2009 and 2014 while the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) spent $3.8 trillion in three years.

The lawmaker also raised another allegation that about $2.1b was disbursed from the Excess Crude Account (ECA) without approval from the Na-

tional Economic Council (NEC).

He expressed concerned over the far-reaching implication of these allegations and what the huge amounts of money could have achieved in diversifying the nation’s economic base if the sums had been judiciously spent on infrastructure development and educational advancement.

Hardly had Okafor began his presentation that Ogor (PDP, Delta) and Edward Pwajok (PDP, Plateau) stopped him with points of order.

Pwajok said the motion was defective and should not be allowed to sail through because while it sought investigation of all MDAs, the mover was neither specific nor direct in his allegations of corruption.

Screening of ministerial nominees will be thorough, says Saraki

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ENATE President Bukola Saraki has said the screening of ministerial nominees will be thorough.

The list is expected to be forwarded to the upper legislative chamber today.

Addressing the lawmakers at yesterday's plenary session, Saraki said: "As we await the list of ministerial nominees this week, I believe the presence of ministers will create the space for greater policy engagement with the executive arm of government.

“This will enable us to begin to respond in a more systematic manner to the various economic and social challenges before us, especially through our various committees that will also be constituted soon.

“On this note, I want to urge you all my colleagues to ensure that what is uppermost in our minds as we begin the constitutional task of screening of ministerial nominees is the overall interest of our country, informed by the enormity and the urgency of the challenges before us.

“Once the list is submitted, let us ensure that we treat it with dispatch and thoroughness. We must not be held down by unnecessary politicking. The enormity of our na-

From Gbade Ogunwale, Assistant Editor, Abuja

tional challenges at this time does not give room for pettiness or politics of vendetta".

Saraki urged the senators to demonstrate clearly to Nigerians that they were prepared to put the interest of the country above other considerations.

To behave contrary, he said, would amount to a betrayal of the confidence reposed on them by the electorate and the country as a whole.

He rued the challenges confronting the national economy, occasioned by dwindling oil revenue, a situation which he said, has brought enormous shock to the economy.

He observed that the trend has greatly limited the capacity of government at various levels to meet even basic commitments, adding however, that the nation had gone through periods of recession in the past.

“What we face today is however unprecedented in ramification and potential gravity.

We must think hard and work hard with the executive to achieve greater clarity in policy direction and interventions.

“We shall therefore commence immediately, a review of the 2015 budget and begin now to lay down the funda-

mental principles that would determine the 2016 budget and the philosophy of our economy in times like this", Saraki stated.

He urged the executive arm to complement the significant military success recorded in the counter insurgency campaign with a robust economic strategy.

Dr. Saraki canvassed a global infrastructure and development fund that could deliver the vital services needed by the army of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in the Northeast part.

He identified homes, hospitals, schools and jobs as some of the key infrastructure required by the IDPs to live a more meaningful and more secured life in the future.

On his ongoing trial at the Code of Conduct Tribunal, Saraki restated his earlier position that he was facing trial because he became the President of the Senate; against the wish of his party.

Said he: “I have no iota of doubt that I am on trial today because I am the President of the Nigerian Senate, against the wishes of some powerful individuals outside this chamber.

“But what is clear to me also, is that the laws of Nigeria, and the rules of the National As-

•Dr. Saraki

sembly give consideration only to the wishes and desires of those of you who are here today as members of the Senate, to elect as you wish, one of your peers as President of the Senate.

“This, in your wisdom, is what you have done by electing me to be the first among all of you who are my equals.

The laws of Nigeria does not give any consideration to any other forces outside the Senate in the election of its President.

“And to yield the ground on this note, is to be complicit in the subversion of democracy and its core principles of separation of powers as enshrined in our constitution.

“This is why we must, once again, commend President Muhammadu Buhari, for refusing to interfere in the election of the National Assembly leadership, even in the face of enormous pressures on him to do so.”

OUSE of Representatives Speaker Yakubu Dogara, yesterday called for fairness in Senate President Bukola Saraki’s trial before the Code of Conduct Tribunal.

Dogara, making his welcome remarks to lawmakers who were returning from a six- week recess said Saraki’s appearance at the tribunal is “in the recognition that no person is above the law.”

He said: “The barometer of the polity has been on the rise of late because of certain developments concerning the arraignment of the President of the Senate.

“While commending the President of the Senate for submitting himself to the jurisdiction of the Code of Conduct Tribunal in the recognition that no person is above the law, I wish to caution that there is need for great circumspection in times such as this in order to maintain proper focus in pursuit of the common good.”

The Speaker said though the House supports the Federal Government in its crusade against corruption, institutions charged with the responsibility should tread with caution.

He said: “We commend and fully support the effort of government towards sanitizing the polity through the war against corruption, impunity and other vices. As legislators with the mandate of making as well as reforming the law, we expect that these institutions, which are the creation of these laws, would prove their capacity for fairness, justice and strict adherence to the rule of law in order not to endanger our democracy.

“I am confident that our justice system has the capacity to do justice to all citizens. In any case, the legislature remains the bulwark in defense of our democracy, fundamental human rights and Rule of Law.” Dogara also praised the Federal Government on the Treasury Single Account (TSA) policy and expressed the hope that it would stem leakages in the country’s resources “The introduction of the Treasury Single Account (TSA) policy is also a commendable measure. Over the years, the problem of uncontrollable revenue leakages constituted a cause for serious concern to the legislature and public finance management in general.

“It is hoped that this new policy will substantially deal with the issue of revenue leakages and accountability. However in order to achieve strict compliance with the requirement of Section 80 of the Nigerian Constitution, it is important to restate that extra budgetary expenditure also constitutes revenue leakages.”

Funso Williams: Ex-police chief, SAN urge court to dismiss suit

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FORMER InspectorGeneral of Police (IGP) Sunday Ehindero and a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Dr Muiz Banire, have urged the Federal High Court in Lagos to dismiss a suit seeking to reopen investigation into the murder of Funsho Williams.

They said the court lacked the jurisdiction to adjudicate the suit, and that they should not have been joined as defendants.

The plaintiff, Bashir Junaid, prayed the court to order fresh investigation into the murder of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate, who was killed in his Dolphin Estate, Ikoyi home on July 27, 2006.

He joined the Inspector-General of Police, Ehindero, Banire and seven others in the suit.

But Banire, who was represented yesterday by Lanre Abegunrin, filed a notice of preliminary objection.

He sought an order striking out or dismissing the suit, or in the alternative, striking out his name as a defendant.

Abegunrin said besides the fact that the court lacked jurisdiction to entertain the case, the suit was not wrongly filed.

“The instant action was not initiated by due process of law and discloses no reasonable cause of action against the eight defendant (Banire),” he said.

According to him, Banire is not a proper party to the suit and should not have been joined.

“We urge the court to dismiss the suit as it is frivolous, baseless and a waste of the court’s time,” he added.

Ehindero, represented by Mr E. O. Tela, said the plaintiff has no locus standi to file the suit, therefore, the court lacked the jurisdiction to entertain it.

He said the action also discloses no cause of action

By Joseph Jibueze

against the former police chief.

“The suit is vexatious and academic. We urge the court to dismiss it or strike it out, or in the alternative strike out the third defendant’s name,” Tela said.

But the plaintiff’s lawyer Tunji Adesheye, urged the court to dismiss the preliminary objections.

He said Banire’s notice of preliminary objection did not follow due process of law and was therefore incompetent as it was not filed with an affidavit.

The plaintiff’s lawyer said the defendant had not shown any intention to defend the suit.

Junaid, a cemetery attendant, was arrested and detained by the police during preliminary investigation into Williams’ murder.

He filed the suit seeking an order of mandamus compelling the IGP to conduct fresh investigation into the murder.

The applicant sought N5billion as exemplary damages for his “illegal” detention in connection with the murder.

In his 48-paragraph statement of claim, he alleged that the police disregarded his freely made statement, which he said could have assisted them to know who killed Williams.

He claimed that the concrete evidence that he tendered was discarded by the Criminal Investigating Department, Alagbon, Lagos.

Junaid accused the police of compromise by allegedly allowing Banire to change his statement after he had been cautioned.

Justice Rita Ofili-Ajumogobia directed that hearing notices be issued to the other parties ahead of further hearing on November 24.

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

NEWS Buhari on Saraki’s trial: law will take its course Continued from page 1

•Vice President Yemi Osinbajo (2nd right); Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola (3rd left); Pro Chancellor/Chairman of Council, Pastor, Tokunbo Adesanya (2nd left), Vice Chancellor, Professor Debo Adeyewa (left) and the Timi of Ede, Oba Munirudeen Adesola Lawal, during the 10th Anniversary/7th Convocation of Redeemer’s University in Ede, Osun State…yesterday.

Hajj: Nigeria’s death toll hits 64 Continued from page 1

The figure of the injured also jumped to 71 from 61 previously announced.

President Muhammadu Buhari ordered NAHCON to account for every Nigerian in Saudi for Hajj.

Mana said of the 64 dead pilgrims, 46 were transported to Saudi Arabia by state pilgrims’ welfare agencies and 18 by private tour operators.

Mana also said 12 of the 71 injured pilgrims were transported to Saudi Arabia by tour operators and 59 by state pilgrims’ welfare agencies.

He said the deceased were from Adamawa,Bauchi, Borno, Ekiti, Jigawa, FCT, Cross River, Gombe, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Kaduna, Kwara, Nasarawa, Niger, Ogun, Ondo, Plateau, Rivers Sokoto, Yobe, Taraba, and Zamfara.

Last Thursday’s stampede occurred on the way to the Jamrat complex (stoning site) in Mina.

The Saudi authorities have declared that no fewer than 749 pilgrims died; 805 others were injured.

Mana said: “We cannot de-

clare missing Nigerians dead because you cannot confirm someone dead without the corpse.

“And because during the stampede, helicopters came around picking victims and taking them to hospitals, we have decided to extend our search to all hospitals in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

“Kaduna all along said they had no missing pilgrims. But by yesterday, they called and said they cannot find six of their pilgrims.

“So the figure keeps changing; it may increase or decrease. Some of the injured have been treated and discharged.”

But a former Governor of Nasarawa State and Amirul Hajj (head of delegation) of the state, Senator Abdullahi Adamu, yesterday denied that some pilgrims from the state died in the stampede in Mina.

Abdullahi, who spoke with reporters in Makkah, said contrary to reports, the state recorded two deaths from natural causes.

He said: “We mourn the deaths and injuries of our brothers and sisters in the

stampede and commiserate with their families, Nigerians and the Muslim world. We did not lose any pilgrims in the unfortunate incident, so the reports to that effect is misleading and should be ignored.

“We actually lost two pilgrims, one died in his sleep two weeks before the stampede and the other was due to ailment on which Nigerian and Saudi medical personnel tried their best on the pilgrim but he died. There were no other deaths.”

The Ondo State Government said it lost three persons.

A statement by Commissioner for Information Kayode Akinmade also said the whereabouts of seven others remained unknown.

But the government did not disclose names of the victims.

The statement said: “Of the 312 members of the state’s contingent to the 2015 hajj, three have been confirmed dead in the unfortunate accident in Saudi Arabia while seven are still missing. We note that many other Nigerians across the country also lost their lives in the sad occurrence.

“Government is saddened by these unfortunate losses.

We can only send words of condolence to families of the dead across the country.

“While we pray for the safety of those still missing, we commiserate with the Muslim Ummah in Ondo State and Nigeria at large. We pray that the deceased find rest with their maker.”

Bauchi State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board also declared that five pilgrims from the state were missing.

Executive Secretary Aliyu Suleman said: “Officials of the Board have visited hospitals in Mina and Mecca in search of the missing pilgrims.

“The officials have visited hospital mortuaries and hospital beds, but so far, there is no news of the five,” Suleiman said.

He added: “So far, only one pilgrim from Darazo Local Government, Alhaji Sule Ibrahim, has been confirmed dead.”

Apart from those who died in the stampede, 19 other Nigerians died of illnesses.

The head of the Medical Data Unit, Dr Jibrin Suleman, said the centre confirmed the figure.

NPAN condoles with Tribune on death of HID

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HE Newspaper Proprietors Association of Nigeria (NPAN) yesterday condoled with the Nigerian Tribune over the death of Chief HID Awolowo.

In a letter addressed to Man-

aging Director of African Newspapers of Nigeria (publishers of Tribune titles) Mr. Edward Dickson and signed

by Dame comfort Obi, the newspaper owners said: “It is with mixed feelings,

that we received the news of the glorious passage on Saturday, September 19, 2015, of the matriach of the Awolowo family, Yeye Hannah Idowu Dideolu Awolowo,CON. “We should be celebrating,

given that she lived upto the enviable age of 99 years. But her death is a personal loss to us.

“Until Mama passed on, she provided leadership both Continued on page 8

ident?

There are some appointments, which the Senate has to approve. And I can’t remember how many letters I personally wrote to him, because this is constitutional. There are people I want to work with, I cannot work with them unless the National Assembly approves. So I’ve been writing to the Senate President and to the leader of the House (of Representatives). This is constitutional.

What do you have to say on the media’s review of your first three months in office?

“The media is too inquisitive for my liking (laughing).

“They ask too many questions, and I agonise over this with my adviser on media that especially our own press in Nigeria, why can’t they do more of investigative journalism?

“There are a lot of things the media can do without harassing the president. For example, my assets declaration. I’ve declared my assets four times since the first time I got a political appointment. Why can’t the press go and find out about the previous times? Instead they’re making headlines about my assets.

It’s been circulating that you’ve been recovering some of the money stolen by corrupt Nigerians from the treasury. How true is this and how much have you recovered?

I can’t give you figures now, because of the legal implications. It’s much easier to talk about what we’re doing according to documents. For example, every ship that is loading Nigerian crude from our terminals is supposed to record how much it has taken and on behalf of who is lifting it in terms of customer, including whether the crude oil belongs to the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation or it belongs to our part-

ners, like Shell, Mobil, Chevron and so on. And then we ask where are they going? Including the facts of the documents like when it was sold and which account the money was going. We have gone quite far and a number of countries have cooperated with us. In fact, again we try to get more facts from Lloyd’s of London, that is the famous shipping line insurance brokers. Because some people would take petroleum from terminals, and then change the receipt, change its direction, and put the money into individual accounts. So we want those documents in our hands so we can successfully prosecute those who have been stealing Nigerian crude.

We can’t mention the details because it may compromise the legal processes, but definitely, we have done a lot of work and very soon the processes of prosecution will start.

Uproar in Senate There was disquiet in the Senate yesterday over a vote of confidence passed on Senate President Abubakar Bukola Saraki and other members of the leadership of the upper chamber.

The confidence vote, supported by 83 senators - 48 Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and 35 All Progressives Congress (APC) senator-sparked a protest on the floor of the chamber.

Some Senators almost exchanged blows but for the quick intervention of others who stood between the combatants.

The sponsor-in-chief of the motion was Senator David Umaru (Niger East). Senator Ahmed Rufai Yerima (Zamfara West) seconded.

Yesterday’s vote of confidence on the leadership of the Senate was the second in two months, the first being on July Continued on page 8

CORRECTION Ebonyi deputy governor not locked out The Ebonyi State Government yesterday denied that Deputy Governor Kelechi Igwe was locked out of the venue of a school debate organised by the Governor David Umahi administration to mark the 19th anniversary of the creation of the state and Nigeria’s 55th Independence.

“For the purpose of clarity, the deputy governor was out on an official assignment and rejoined the function later on. The report is therefore incorrect, “ the government said in a statement by Emma Anya, the Chief Press Secretary to governor.

Boardroom guru Gamaliel Onosode dies at 82 Tinubu mourns foremost industrialist

Continued from page 1

who said the university was lucky to have the late Onosode as the pro-chancellor.

“The period he spent with us has reshaped the way the university operates,” he said.

Onosode, an Urhobo, was born on May 22, 1933 in Sapele, Delta State.

He was educated at the Government College, Ughelli and the University of Ibadan (UI).

In the 1970s, he became one of Nigeria’s leading chief executives, when he was at the helm of affairs at NAL Merchant Bank of Nigeria.

Over the years, he became a leading boardroom player.

He was an adviser to the then President Shehu Shagari and a former President of the Nigerian Institute of Management. He chaired several private and public sector businesses and initiatives.

These include Dunlop Nige-

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ATIONAL leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu yesterday condoled with the Onosode family.

In a letter to the family, he said: “I write to commiserate with the entire Onosodefamily on the glorious passing of your accomplished and most distinguished father and an illustrious son of our country, Nigeria, Deacon Gamaliel Offoritsenere Onosode.

“As a Nigerian, I note with pride that

ria Plc, Cadbury Nigeria Plc, Presidential Commission on Parastatals and Nigeria LNG Working Committee and Nigeria LNG Limited and the Niger Delta Environmental Survey.

The late Onosode was a Fellow of the Economic Development Institute of the World Bank, the Nigerian Institute of Management and the Chartered Institute of Bankers of

he excelled in many areas and served as a shining example of erudition, honesty, industry, passion, selflessness and Godliness in his private and public engagements, comportment and disposition. It is no wonder that your late patriarch commanded deep admiration and respect from far and near, from both public and private sectors and from all shades of political opinions and leanings.

“I appreciate that this is likely to be a time of mixed emotions for the family.

However, while it is proper and deserv-

Nigeria.

He was the immediate-past and inaugural President of the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers, immediate past ProChancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the University of Uyo. He held Honorary D.Sc. degrees of Obafemi Awolowo University, the University of Benin and the Rivers State University of Science and

ing to mourn the passing, loss and irreplaceability of an exceptional human being, I urge you to focus more on thanking God for his life and on celebrating hisnotable contributions to Nigeria and to humanity.

“On behalf of my family and I, please accept my deepest condolences. You will remain in my thoughts and prayers as your family is joined by many in celebrating the life and times of the departed great son of Nigeria. “

Technology.

He was chairman of Delta State Think-Tank on Development, Global Missions Board of the Nigerian Baptist Convention and Governing Council of Nigerian Baptist Theological Seminary, Ogbomoso President Buhari extended condolences to the family.

A statement by the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Femi Adesina, also

commiserated with the government and people of Delta State, and the Nigerian Baptist Convention on the passing away of their illustrious son and evangelist.

The statement said: “He joined them in mourning Mr. Onosode, who apart from being a colossus in Nigeria’s private sector, also excelled in public service on various occasions.

“President Buhari believed that Mr. Onosode will be long remembered as an exemplary citizen and leader who made very significant contributions to national development.

“He urged his family, friends, associates and other Nigerians to honour Mr. Onosode’s memory by upholding the virtues of integrity, honesty and dedication to service, which he passionately promoted in his long and highly successful career in the private and public sectors.”

Former Commonwealth Secretary-General Emeka Anyaoku, the late Onosode’s friend of more than five decades, described him as “a true symbol of integrity, an outstanding patriot and an icon of Continued on page 8

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7

NEWS

Police query ransom payment by Falae family

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•IG: our operation led to ex-SGF’S release

HE police have queried the Falae family for paying ransom to

the abductors of the former Secretary General of the Federation, Chief Olu Falae.

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Solomon Arase, maintained that police operations put pressure on the kidnappers.

On Monday, Falae, in an interview, claimed that his family paid ransom to his abductors.

The Force yesterday in a rejoinder captioned: “Re: Ransom Payment By The Family of Chief Olu Falae” claimed that it was not privy to the payment of the ransom. It noted that it does not encourage the payment of ransom.

The police, however, noted that it will investigate the ransom payment and determine how the money was paid.

In the rejoinder, the police noted that it will be interested in widening its investigative scope to explore the lead on how payment was

Support for Arase NON-Governmental organisation, Free Society Nigeria, has condemned the incessant kidnaps in the country.

A statement by its Media and Public Affairs Director, Demola Williams, said it was sure that “with the current policing strategies being deployed by the Inspector General, Solomon Arase, the nation would soon overcome kidnapping”.

The statement said: “We sympathise with the Falae family for the trauma it went through.

“We, however, wish to call on Nigerians to cooperate with the police so that collec-

A

From Faith Yahaya, Abuja

made and to whom such payment was made.

The police, in its investigations, also want to know if the payment was perfected through bank transactions.

In the rejoinder, the Force claimed to have the capacity to track such transactions and would be liaising with banks to enable it track the cash and apprehend the perpetrators.

The rejoinder highlighted

tively we can stamp this menace out of our society.

“We, particularly, wish to condemn attempts by some persons and groups to blame the Akure incident on the IG. We dare say this because, from our enquiries with the police, Arase never supported nor paid any ransom and was not aware that any ransom was paid to Falae’s kidnappers.

“We found out that the IG relocated to Ondo State with his team to track down Falae’s abductors as his responsibility demands and in obedience to the directive of President Muhammadu Buhari.”

some of the some of the roles the police played in the rescue of the former finance minister.

It reads: “Our approach was a professional response to what we saw as a crime against a respected national personality.

“The police, under the leadership of IGP, deployed our unique intelligence and operational capabilities, including police helicopters, for aerial surveillance.

“Our intelligence and operational teams, comprising Intelligence Response Team (a Special Anti-Kidnapping Unit), conventional and mobile policemen were deployed for rescue operation.

“They followed the path from the point of kidnapping at his farm at Ilado, on Igbatoro Road in Akure, Ondo State and trailed the hoodlums through bushes to Owo.

“In the process, we were able to identify the major actors and currently high level police activities are being emplaced to apprehend and bring them to justice.

“As professionals, it is our conviction that the unprecedented and massive deployment of police resources and men to support search and rescue operations put pressure on the criminals to release the elder statesman.”

On the payment of ransom: “As a law enforcement agency guided by rule of law and professional ethics, we do not under any circumstance encourage the payment of ransom to kidnappers or other criminals.

“Whatever the family did as regards payment of ransom was outside the knowledge and consent of the police and at this point, we wish to advise that in future, families who fall victims of such acts should rather work closely with the police component of the rescue initiative so that we can achieve the primary purpose of rescuing the victim alive.”

•From left: Bishop Olugbenga Caleb Fifeyiwa, Iyabo Stephen, Bishop of Ibadan, Methodist Church of Nigeria, Archbishop Michael Kehinde Stephen, the deceased’s daughter, Mrs. Tokunbo Awolowo-Dosunmu, her sister, Mrs. Tola Oyediran, Bishop of Elekuro diocese, James Olusegun, Segun Awolowo and Bishop of Oyo diocese, Bishop Titus Omoniyi, when the clerics visited the Awolowos to condole with them on the death of their mother, Mrs. Hannah Idowu Dideolu Awolowo, in Ikenne, Ogun State.

PHOTO: ADEJO DAVID

Thugs attack Ogun tribunal From Ernest Nwokolo, Abeokuta

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RMED political thugs yesterday invaded the governorship election petition tribunal in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital.

For about 30 minutes, the thugs held sway.

Lawyers, reporters and parties’ supporters stayed in the court room.

The attack began shortly after the court concluded sitting on the petition by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate, Gboyega Isiaka, against Governor Ibikunle Amosun of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The state PDP Chairman, Bayo Dayo, was said to have escaped.

A man, Sesan Oresanya, was not lucky as he was beaten with parts of his body lacerated with canes.

Oresanya said providence saved him from death.

There are accusation and counter accusation regarding whose interest the thugs were serving.

The Department of State Service and the police, led by a Deputy Commissioner of Police, Bello Makwashi, had a hectic time trying to restore normalcy.

Ocean surge sacks Aiyetoro community

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EARS flowed yesterday as the Atlantic Ocean sacked the historic Aiyetoro community in Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State.

The surge affected more than half of the fishing community, flooding streets and houses and forcing residents to flee.

According to residents, who sent a distress message to The Nation, the ocean began to overflow its banks at 4:30 am and eventually sacked more than 50

By Seun Akioye

houses by midday.

A resident, Samson Ajijo, said: “The surge began just before dawn. The waves were violent and houses by the banks were the first to go. Many houses in the main town have been submerged and properties destroyed.”

The fishing community has about 30,000 residents.

Hundreds of them have been rendered homeless.

The ocean surge has been

a recurrent issue in the community for about 15 years, prompting the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to award a N6.5billion shoreline protection contract to Atlantic Dredgers Limited (DAL) in 2006.

But the company abandoned site, leaving only a handful of workers without proper equipment to handle the shoreline protection.

“It is frustrating for us, workers of the Atlantic

Dredgers tried to run away yesterday after the sea level rose but we prevented them. They have done nothing at all and now they want to abandon us.”

The spiritual head of the community, Bishop Eremitan Eretan, alleged that the contractor has not been on site.

“Up till now, we have not set our eyes on the contractor nine years after he started working in our community.”

Amosun names SSA media GUN State Governor Ibikunle Amosun has approved the appointment of a multiple award winning journalist, Adejuwon Soyinka, as his Senior Special Assistant (Media).

Soyinka a former Deputy General Editor and member of the Editorial Board of TELL Magazine, Lagos.

The SSA Media, whose experience spans over 16 years, holds a Bachelor of Arts (B.A)

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in History and International Relations and Diploma in Law from the Lagos State University.

He bagged an Ordinary National Diploma in Journalism and Certificate in Basic News Writing and Reporting from the Nigeria Institute of Journalism in 1999.

Olajuwon has won several awards, including Nigerian Media Merit Awards as Foreign News Reporter in 2013, Human Rights Reporter in

2012, Print Journalist and Human Rights Reporter of the Year 2011.

Other awards in his kitty are the Wole Soyinka Prize Investigative Reporting (Climate Change Reporting Category) in 2010 and the Diamond Award for Media Excellence (DAME) Capital Market Reporting Award in 2009, among others.

The 38-year old indigene of Ogun State is a member of the Nigeria Union of Jour-

•Soyinka

nalists (NUJ) and the Nigeria Guild of Editors (NGE).

Unions give ultimatum to govt From Damisi Ojo, Akure

ORGANISED Labour in Ondo State has given a 24hour ultimatum to the government to pay workers’ outstanding salaries and allowances.

The decision was taken after a joint meeting of leaders of the Trade Union Congress (TUC); Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Joint Negotiating Congress (JNC).

JNC Chairman Sunday Adeleye said the unions would go on an indefinite strike, if the government failed to honour their demands.

Civil servants are yet to receive their three-month salaries, despite the receipt of the N14.686billion bailout fund by the state from the Federal Government.

The non-payment of salaries led to last Tuesday’s protest where aggrieved workers demanded the removal of the AccountantGeneral, Fredrick Ajibokun.

Oke-Are alumni honour elders ELDERS of the Oke-Are Seminary Old Boys Association of Nigeria (OSOBAN ) are to be honoured by the alumni association of St Theresa’s Catholic Minor Seminary, Oke-Are, Ibadan.

This is part of the activities lined up to mark the 2015 Annual General Meeting (AGM).

A statement by the General Secretary, Segun Ogunade, said the ‘Elders’ Forum’ would hold on Friday.

The awardees include Rev Felix Alaba Job, the Bishop Emeritus of the Catholic Archdiocese of Ibadan, Amb Michael Kuforiji and Dejumo Lewis, the ‘Kabiyesi, Oloja of Oja’ of the popular but rested TV drama, Village Headmaster.

Others are John Aniagwu, Bernard Okodua, Prof Francis Ogunmodede, G.K Ayankoya, among several others.

Books presentation on October 3 A principal lecturer, Federal College of Education (Technical) Akoka, Lagos, Ezeoguine Juliana Akunnaya, will present her books “Home Economics Education” and “Entrepreneurship for Self Reliance” on Saturday at the FCE’s New Multi-Purpose Hall.

The event will be chaired by the Ukpaka Umuchu, Chief Gerry Ofor; the Chief Launcher is Mr. Hilary Nwawulu.

The co-launchers are Ernest Udensi, Cyril Oghaego, Prince Michael Taiwo Oyeniyi and Augustine Ezenduka.

The reviewers are Associate Professor of Home Economics, HOD Home Economics, Michael Okpara, University of Agriculture, Umudike Umuhia, Abia State, Dr. Patricia Etuna and Prof Emmanuel Chibundu a World Bank Consultant in Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME).

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

NEWS Uproar in Senate over Senate President confidence vote Continued from page 6

28, when the senators adopted confidence vote as a sign of solidarity with the Senate President and members of the Senate leadership.

Business and Rules Committee Chairman Senator Babajide Omoworare (Osun East) may have unwittingly sparked the protest when he dissociated himself from the vote of confidence.

Omoworare, whose name was number 11 on the list of supporters of the motion, sought and was granted permission by Saraki to make some observations on the motion.

The Osun State APC lawmaker, to the consternation of the promoters of the motion, said he was not consulted before his name was smuggled into the list of supporters of the confidence vote.

He insisted that his name be struck out of the list since he knew nothing about the motion.

He added that as chairman, Senate Business and Rules, he should have known about the motion “but because it came under a motion of urgent national importance”, he had no issue with the presentation.

He, however, said that his name should be removed from the list of sponsors of the motion.

After the confidence vote had been moved and adopted, the Senate President gave Senator Kabiru Marafa (Zamfara Central) the floor to speak.

Before Saraki gave the nod

to Umaru to present his motion, Marafa was itching to speak. He raised his hand several times.

The Senate President who may have gauged Marafa’s mindset ignored him and gave Umaru the floor to make his presentation.

Marafa waited but when Saraki allowed him to speak, he came under Senate Order 53 (5), which says “Reference shall not be made to any matter on which a judicial decision is pending—”.

He was apparently referring to the welcome address by Saraki where the Senate President referred copiously to his ongoing trial at the Code of Conduct Tribunal.

But the Senate President asked Marafa to read Order 53(6), which states: “It shall be out of Order to attempt to reconsider any specific question upon which the Senate has come to a conclusion during the current session except upon a substantive motion for rescission.”

Instead of reading Order 53(6), Marafa chose to read Order 53(8), which says: “No Senator shall impute improper motives to any other Senator.”

The Senate President promptly ruled Marafa out of order and asked him to sit down, but Marafa persisted.

He protested profusely but the Senate president ignored him.

As Umaru read his prayers, Marafa was heard shouting “nay! Nay! Nay!” to all the prayers.

His was a lone voice that did not make any difference.

But Senator Isah Hamma Misau (Bauchi Central) could not stomach what he called Marafa’s “overbearing behavior”.

Misau, a strong supporter of Saraki, sprang from his seat and attempted to call Marafa to order, but failed.

He rained unprinted words on Marafa, who responded in like manner. The situation degenerated.

Senators massed around the duo who were already charging at each other.

Proceedings were halted for over 20 minutes as the altercation persisted.

Marafa felt his right as a senator was being breached. He became almost uncontrollable, until he was led away from the floor.

Umaru, in his lead debate, noted that the provisions of the 1999 Constitution as amended guaranteed the separation of powers and the independence of the legislature.

He said the legislative arm of government remained the mainstay of democratic governance, liberty, freedom, fair hearing, checks and balances and, above all, the protection of human rights of the citizenry.

Umaru said that the Senate was determined to focus on matters of national interest and importance to the ordinary people of Nigeria and other issues that will enhance their safety, livelihood, social and political wellbeing.

He added that the Senate

was determined to continue to perform its constitutional responsibilities in defence of democracy and the rule of law for the betterment and development of the country.

He noted “with dismay, the attempt and continued interference in the internal affairs of the Senate by detractors and media propaganda against Senators, the Senate and its leadership by selfish politicians”.

Umaru said “considering the ongoing unwarranted embarrassment and aspersions being cast on the Senate and its leadership”, the Senate shall not allow itself to be “distracted, deterred or succumb to cheap blackmail in the course of carrying out its constitutional responsibilities by any individual or group of people under any pretence or guise for personal political interest.”

He prayed the Senate to resolve to pass a vote of confidence in the Senate President; the Deputy Senate President, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, and the entire leadership of the Senate as presently constituted.

The prayers were adopted.

Senator Marafa showed open disapproval of the prayers.

Umaru also prayed the Senate to resolve to call on Nigerians, groups and political associations not to allow themselves to be used by any per-

son or persons to harass, intimidate or blackmail the Senate, Senators and its leadership.

The prayer was also adopted. Marafa said “nay” to the prayer.

It was after the adoption of the prayers that the altercation between Marafa and Misau heightened.

Deputy Senate President Ekweremadu later apologised to Nigerians and the Senate for the disquiet.

Speaking on the vote of confidence, Chairman, Senate adhoc committee on Media and publicity, Senator Dino Melaye, said that 83 senators endorsed the leadership of the Senate was the expression of confidence the lawmakers reposed on their leadership.

He said that the Senate would not be distracted “by people with inordinate ambition”.

Melaye said Ekweremadu apologized to Nigerians and the Senate for “the unbecoming attitude of Senator Marafa”.

He described Marafa’s behavious as “regrettable, condemnable and unacceptable” saying that “we assure Nigerians that this will be the last time the Senate will condone such a behavour”.

Melaye added “If it happens again, it will be met with the full weight of the Senate - in line with Senate Standing Rules.”

NPAN condoles with Tribune Continued from page 6

as Co-Founder and Chairman, at the African Newspapers of Nigeria Plc.- publishers of the Tribune Titles- an organisation which is an esteemed member of our Association.

“We can not but recall the famous description (an rightly too), of Mama as a "jewel of inestimable value" by her late revered husband who was also the Premier of the defunct Western Region, Chief Obafemi Awolowo- the authentic leader of the proud Yoruba race- except to add that her industry, selflessness and contributions to society, recommended her as a national asset of inestimable value, even in death.

“It is thanks to her industry and business acumen, that the Tribune titles founded in 1949, continues to grow in leaps and bounds, 28 years after the death the founder.

“Mama lived and led a virtuous and exemplary life and we recommend her as a worthy example for the younger generation, most especially for our young ladies and women.

“Her life was that of courage and steadfastness, which were exemplified during the political trial and subsequent incarceration of husband in the first republic and even since his death.”

Boardroom guru Onosode dies at 82 Continued from page 6

the best of Nigeria’s national values”.

“An iroko in the corporate world has fallen,’’ he said in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

“Gam, as he was called by his contemporaries, was a true symbol of integrity in the boardroom. He was an outstanding patriot and an icon of the best on Nigeria’s national values,’’ Anyaoku said.

“He was a man of God who deployed a significant part of his righteously acquired resources to supporting the church in his hometown of Ughelli and in Lagos where he lived an exemplary modest life,’’ Anyaoku said.

“Gamaliel was my best man at our wedding almost 53 years ago. My entire family, which enjoys close relationship with his family, joins his wife Susan and their children in mourning this virtuous man.

“We thank God for his remarkable and fulfilled life and pray that his soul will rest in perfect peace,’’ Anyaoku said. .Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, in a statement by his Chief Press Secre-

tary Habib Aruna, expressed sadness over Onosode’s death. ”Mr. Onosode was one of the few Nigerians who ruled the boardroom. A quintessential businessman, he was also a master in his field and deeply religious. It was not therefore surprising that he rose to become a leading boardroom player in Nigeria’s corporate environment.

“He will be remembered for the dexterity he brought to bear when he served as chairman and board member of several multinational companies.”

“I wish to convey my deepest condolences to the Onosode family on behalf of the good people of Lagos state. This is indeed a sad loss,” Ambode said.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar described the late Onosode as a man of integrity and an exemplary discipline. ”Onosode was a big man who didn’t necessarily look the part,” Atiku said, adding that “he was in trim, good shape and his tastes were simple”.

The Turaki Adamawa recalled that the late Onosode was chairman of many panels, boards, councils, commissions and committees in both public and private sectors.

“From the private to the public sector, many organisations in Nigeria will today be mourning the loss of one of their own.”

Some financial experts described Onosode’s death as a big blow to the nation’s capital

market, banking and the entire corporate Nigeria.

Mazi Okechukwu Unegbu, a former President of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), said the country had lost a gem and an “epitome of moderation and simplicity”.

Unegbu, who described the death as painful, said the late Onosode stood for truth, hated corruption and never accepted unethical conduct during his active years.

Emeka Madubuike, the President, Association of Stockbroking Houses of Nigeria, said the late Onosode was instrumental to the stability in the capital market and the economy in general.

Madubuike said the late Onosode contributed to the country’s economic development as the chairman of various quoted companies and the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) Investor Protection Fund.

Malam Garba Kurfi, the Managing Director, APT Securities and Funds Ltd., also said Onosode’s death was a great loss to the entire capital market community.

Kurfi said the late Onosode contributed his quota to the development of the NSE and the stability of the Institute of Chartered Stockbrokers (CIS).

He said Onosode was also instrumental to the transformation of the capital market through efficient policies.

“We cannot forget him; Onosode is one of the greatest contributor to the market; the first doyen to be lost and we will surely miss him,” Kurfi said.

Mr Adebayo Adeleke, the National Secretary, Independent Shareholders of Nigeria (ISAN), said the late Onosode was one of the pillars of industry in Nigeria.

Adeleke said that he was “a great influence on economic policies and development straddling over four decades”.

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

CITYBEATS

CITYBEATS LINE: 09091178827

Unilag postpones exams after unrest

Hajj stampede: How UNILAG teachers, others survived

T

WO University of Lagos (UNILAG) lecturers were among the pilgrims who survived the hajj stampede last week, it was learnt yesterday.

Dr Ismail Ibrahim, a Senior Lecturer at the Department of Mass Communication and Acting Head of Actuarial Science Department, Dr Tajudeen Yusuf, were saved by their decision not to take a short cut back to their tent in Mina.

The duo went to the Jamaraat to stone Satan, depicted by a pillar, with Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer of Zakat and Sadaqat Foundation (ZSF), Imam Abdullahi Shuaib; Sheikh Ismail Raji, Mudeer of Ma’dul Rahmah, an Islamic School in Isolo, Lagos and his son, Ishaq, a student in Saudi Arabia.

According to Imam Shuaib, the decision of many to take a short-cut back home after the exercise led to the stampede.

Imam Shuaib, Coordinator of the Conference of Islamic Organisations (CIO), Lagos State chapter, said: “We could have been victims of the stampede had we joined the bandwagon of those crossing to the route of those walking towards the Jamaraat. One of us suggested the idea of crossing because it would enable us to follow a short-cut and that would quickly take us to our tent. Fortunately, majority of us declined and insisted on following the normal route back home. Even though, our walk back home was a long one and we were very tired, the good news was that we got to our tent safely.”

Another contributory fac-

By Oluwatoyin Adeleye, Education Reporter

T

We could have ‘been victims of the stampede had we joined the bandwagon of those crossing to the route of those walking towards the Jamaraat.

’

By Tajudeen Adebanjo

tor, he said, was the blocking of the access route by some pilgrims.

Pilgrims in Tent ‘A’, he said, did not want others to obstruct their movements and disrupt their he initiative is supported by comfort.

He said: “We started the walk from Muzdalifah which covered a distance of about three kilometres to our tent in Mina. Immediately we got to Mina, we dropped our belongings and headed towards the Jamaraat.

“After walking for about one kilometre, the crowd was getting thicker. We later found ourselves stalked in the middle and our movement was getting slower.

The reason for that was because; we had to make a detour to our right going down a tunnel. At this juncture, extra-care and caution were required because the spot was very slippery due to the staircase and narrowness of the tunnel. We did not know the reason for directing pilgrims to make a detour. We only got to know after the

•From left: Dr Ibrahim, Sheikh Raji, Sheikh Abdul Fatah Thanni and Imam Shuaib thanking Allah for their safety

stampede that it was the pilgrims in Tent ‘A’ category that did not want others to obstruct their comfort, hence informed the no access movement for others.

“However, we managed to pass through the crowd without escaping the shoving, pushing and swinging aspects of the movement to the Jamaraat. We finally got to the Jamaraat successfully.

In fact, all of us got to the edge of the Jamaraat and threw our pebbles with utmost ease. It should be mentioned that on our way to the Jamaraat, we saw some pilgrims who were obviously very fatigue. Some of them looked sick. Others were suffering from old age and sat by the side of the road trying to regain their breath.

We availed ourselves of the opportunity of collecting bottles of water given out freely by the Saudi security officials. After exhausting our water, we also took water from the water dispensers placed along the road towards the Jamaraat. The strategy of drinking lots of water helped us greatly. It prevented us from suffering from dehydration while those who did not know the importance of taking lots of water became victims.

“After we had completed

•Dr Yusuf

the first round of throwing pebbles, we did a u-turn by taking the other route back home. While going back to our tent, we observed that some of the pilgrims, instead of following the route we took, crossed to the side of the pilgrims going towards the Jamaraat. It was like somebody walking against one-way. The reason (s) that informed some of the pilgrims walking against others going to the Jamaraat include the desire to take a short-cut back home; the desire to quickly enter their tents especially those in Tent ‘A’ which were located very

close to the Jamaraat; the desire to either buy one or two things some of them saw on their way to the Jamaraat among others.”

According to Imam Shuaib, patience and perseverance, self-discipline and adequate awareness are essentials in performing the spiritual exercise.

“The idea of trying to quickly go and come back from the Jamaraat is not peculiar to anybody. All the pilgrims usually have the same idea. So, we should be cautious and patient with one another. It is only the patient ones that will complete the rites; though it may take a long time to do that, but at the end of the day, one would have.

“Self-discipline is an important virtue that will ensure that pilgrims do not disobey the Saudi authorities, walk against the human-traffic, undermine the authority and rules put in place by either the host authority or the leaders of the delegations of the different countries in order to ensure a hitch-free Hajj. Each country should raise the awareness bar concerning the rigorous nature of some of the aspects of Hajj rites especially the Jamaraat, Tawaf Ifadah and Sa’y of Tawaf Ifadah among others,” he said.

Father cries out for justice over son’s death

•Oladitan stitched head •Injured Oladitan at the hospital

A

FATHER is crying out for justice over the killing of his son.

Mutiu Adefuye, an artican, is asking the government to bring to book the killers of

•The late Sunday

By Ibrahim Adam

his son, Sunday, 25.

Sunday, he said, was killed by hoodlums at Ijoko Ota in Ogun State, on August 5. He named the suspected killers

as Mohammed, Muibi, Wale, Ibrahim, Gbenga, Sodiq, Nurudeen, Kalinga, Aloma and others at large.

They were said to have attacked the late Sunday, his

friend, Lekan Oladitan and a motorcyclist, Sunday Ajayi, around 3pm.

Adefuye said the gang leader was arrested with his driver on September 12

around 10pm in Oko-Oba in Lagos and was transferred to the Ogun State Police Headquarters at Eleweran in Abeokuta before he was released on bail on September 16 without recourse to court.

He said: “Mohammed said there is nothing money cannot do including his connection and that is why I am calling on the Federal Government, Ministry of Justice and Inspector-General of Police to come to my rescue and let justice prevail.

“He (Mohammed) is bragging that he knows the police and he won’t be questioned. Sunday works with me where I repair refrigerator; he is an easy going boy, he associates with good people and he is very hardworking.”

Badagry group thanks Ambode, Tinubu for fulfilling promise

A

GROUP, Badagry Development Movement (BDM), has praised Governor Akinwunmi Ambode for fulfilling his campaign promise of bringing development to the area.

BDM, a non-political association that stands for the development of Badagry, said the nomination of its indigene as

By Joseph Jibueze

a commissioner showed the governor’s good intentions.

The group also praised All Progressives Congress (APC) National Leader Asiwaju Bola Tinubu who ensured that the party’s promise during the campaign was kept.

BDM’s President, Comrade Saka Rahman said in a

statement: “The Jagaban Bogu, our amiable governor and other APC chieftains saw the need to carry our people along so that we can as well contribute to the advancement of this state.

“In 2011, Asiwaju Tinubu appointed two of our people, Tunde Hunpe and Mrs Senapon Oworu into the executive council, a repre-

sentation that gave Badagry an opportunity not only to serve but to benefit from some basic infrastructures from the government.

“During the last electioneering campaign, Asiwaju Tinubu promised us that if we come out en masse and vote for APC, that we will not be left out in the scheme of things.

“Today, our very dear son,

Tunde Hunpe has been nominated for a commissioner while a few others have been appointed into boards of institutions.

“We want to use this opportunity to thank them for not just appointing him, but choosing a true representative of the people, a grassroots person who is tested and trusted by his people.”

HE University of Lagos (UNILAG) has postponed its forthcoming examinations slated for October 12 to 19 following Monday’s students’ protest.

Deputy Registrar (Information) Mr Olagoke Oke told The Nation yesterday that the institution would change the bed bug infested mattresses and furniture, which led to the protest and fumigate the hostels.

He said: “We cannot fumigate when students are on campus so we would wait for them to go on break before that. But plans are at an advanced stage to procure new mattresses for all the hostels. It is not just one mattress we are buying, but many, so it would take some processes and negotiations. The university is giving the students a one-week postponement of their examinations also.”

Students Union President Abiodun Martins urged management to go beyond yearly fumigation after procuring the mattresses.

Clerk of parliament, Adeonipekun Adeyanju said: “Management has agreed to buy new mattresses and change the bunks in the hostels and also buy a covering for the mattresses to prevent them from easy harm and dirt.

However, I would advise them to fumigate every week once they start. Those things can hide anywhere and they have already laid eggs in hidden corners. So they can fumigate every week for a period of one month or even more to be sure they are all gone.”

A tour yesterday showed that the halls of residence are in good shape.

Publisher hosts women

By Basirat Braimah

G

EM Publications, publishers of Gem Magazine, will hold 9th annual Body, Soul and Spirit, at The Marquee of All Seasons Plaza, Ikeja, Lagos tomorrow.

Tagged ‘A New Song,’ the one-day event is designed to afford the contemporary woman aged between 20 and 65, a rare opportunity to ease the stress of the demands of hectic job and live a fulfilling life.

According to the host, Bolanle Olawale, the event is targeted at women and pupils.

She said: "Recently, we served breakfast in some public schools and remand homes. Also, some pupils would be issued free tickets for the event. They also have the benefit of attending the event with their parents and school counsellors. Interested participants should visit www.genmagazines.net/ bss."

She said the Stanbic IBTC, Golden Penny, MTN, Nigerian Bottling Company, Fountain Springs, Lily Water, Smooth FM, among others firms are partnering with the organisation.

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

Life

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The Midweek Magazine E-mail:- ozoluauhakheme@yahoo.com

Text only: 08023058761 and 08112662687

•The Olowo of Owo, Oba Olateru-Olagbegi (middle), flanked by his chiefs

Spectacle as Owo celebrates Igogo festival

T

HERE was a loud ovation as he came out in his royal regalia. Clad in a beaded regalia, Ewu Okun, the monarch had four white feathers (Urere Okin) attached to his plaited hair.

With coral royal beads on his neck, ankles and wrists, he danced skilfully to the admiration of his subjects. He also had with him his traditional sword (uda maloore), his shining metal gong and a retinue of his chiefs.

It was the 2015 Igogo Festival and the Olowo of Owo, Oba David Victor Folagbade Olateru-Olagbegi III, came out to be part of it all.

Some climbed trees and rooftops. Others stood on brick fences and on vehicles as they struggled to have a glimpse of their monarch.

It was a spectacle to behold as the monarch led traditional chants, with his chiefs chorusing. At intervals, High Chief Adeniyi Adewole, the Chief Eminiken of Owo, would raise his voice in praises, chanting panegyrics, such as Ologho! Baba o! Orisa ma dimi s’Ologho, tu wa pe hin waaa!”, meaning “Long live our King!”

The crowd would respond “Baba O!”.

Some titled chiefs - both male and female - plaited their hair. Dressed in women

The men wore traditional attires. The women danced and sang the praise of their king. There was exchange of gifts. It was a rich display of culture as Owo indigenes thronged the town from within and outside the country for this year’s Igogo Festival. TAIWO ABIODUN reports.

FESTIVAL attires, they danced round the town visiting their friends and family members.

Other chiefs wore wigs and decorated their necks and ankles with coral beads. There was no beating of the leather drum, or gunshots. Caps and head ties were forbidden, only the clanging of iron was allowed.

Though it lacks the entertainment condi-

ments used in spicing up most festivals, the traditional fiesta continues to feature diverse spectacles and a growing crowd. The yearly festival has become a season of union for the people of Owoland; this year’s edition was no different. It drew many from across the country and abroad.

Festival history “The Igogo Festival has been in existence

‘The Igogo Festival has been in existence for over 600 years. It shows the cultural values that we have for our town. We call it a festival of love. During the period, we exchange gifts. It is an opportunity for those who are far and near to come home and see their parents, friends and beloved ones, and spread love’

for over 600 years. It shows the cultural values that we have for our town.

We call it a festival of love. During the period, we exchange gifts. It is an opportunity for those who are far and near to come home and see their parents, friends and beloved ones, and spread love,” the Olowo of Owo said.

According to the him, the festival began during the reign of Olowo Regenjen. It was held in remembrance of Queen Oronsen, a mysterious woman who was loved by the king more than his other wives because of her beauty and her contribution to the progress of the town. Oral tradition has it that she used to excrete expensive coral beads of which the king used and even sold and which made the town to progress.

As instructed, men are not to wear caps or women head-ties during the period. There is no shooting of gun and no beating of leather drums also.

Dance at the market One of the rites of the festival is dancing in market by the monarch. This year, the Olowo danced to the Oja Oba (King’s Market), followed by a huge crowd. He •Continued on Page 14

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

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The Midweek Magazine

E-mail:- ozoluauhakheme@yahoo.com

Owo celebrates Igogo festival •Continued fromPage 13

danced seven times with the Akowa, a High Chief and spiritual leader of Iloro Quarters.

During the ceremony, market women came out en masse to honour the king. In the evening of that day, a big ram was offered for sacrifice in replacement of human sacrifice used in the days of yore.

According to Oba Olateru-Olagbegi, Igogo is a festival of peace. A few weeks before the festival, there were rumours that the monarch had jettisoned the festival because of his strong Christian faith.

The monarch said there had been no attempt to stop the festival, saying: “Igogo is part of our culture and we pray for the progress of everybody during the festival.

It is a period when we preach peace because it is a festival of love.”

On his part, Prince Lanre Olateru– Olagbegi said they were working on modalities to make the Igodo Festival one of Nigeria’s largest, like the Osun and Calabar festivals.

One of the side attractions of the festival was 93-year-old Chief Fehintola Famulagun, who, despite her advanced age and health, said she would not miss celebrating the festival with her family.

Even though she could no longer go out and dance round the town, Chief Famulagun said: “The festival is important and has to be observed. This is my 54th year I am celebrating it. I have vowed that it must be done. I have never missed the festival since I became chief in 1964. I am among the oldest chiefs that partake in this festival.”

Like Chief Famulagun, the festival is dear to the hearts of the indigenes, especially those in Diaspora. Mr Tunde Onibode, who flew in from abroad and facilitated the Omega Schnapps sponsorship whereby drinks were offered freely at the palace, called for government’s support. This, he said would make it richer and bigger.

Dance of bare-chested men Another attraction at the festival was the display by the Iloro Quarter men, called

•Some chiefs at the festival the Ighares. Half-naked with white caps on, they danced round some areas in the ancient town. Some held two dried horns of buffalo with which they struck each other. In place of leather drum, they clung iron metals, sang songs of love laced with proverbs and chanted panegyrics as they wriggled their waists.

During their performance, a goat that strayed into the exclusive zone, crossed past them was chased, caught and became their delicacy. According to one of the participants, any animal that passes during their performance would be “arrested” and slaughtered as their sacrificial meat.

The aged chiefs with feeble legs who could no longer go out celebrated in their homes. They cooked food and entertained visitors. Infact, some chiefs who were sick managed to participate. One of them, Chief Olusesi Osenepen, in his royal dress, said he left the hospital bed immediately he was discharged to participate in the festival.

His words:“I am happy that I am celebrating with Kabiyesi. I was sick but now I’m better.“

•Princes and a princess at festival

MUSON holds 2015 festival

A

LL is set for this year’s Musical Society of Nigeria (MUSON) festival.

Accroding to the organisers, this year’s edition will feature talented groups and artistes, particularly students and alumni of its School of Music.

With the theme, the arts through young Nigerian eyes, the society will also be partnering with the Playhouse Initiative and the Society for Performing Arts of Nigeria (SPAN), they said.

According to the Chairman 2015 Festival Planning Committee, Kitoyi IbareAkinsan, the festival would kick-off with a youth concert on October 14, which would feature a competition in which seven finalists would be expeccted to compete at its grand finale.

He said: “This will be followed by a favorite of the festival, tagged: My Kind of Music. It is a personality programme which would feature a select cast of eminent Nigerians who will provide a lucid exceptional glimpse of their persona, with regards to music, to an invited audience.

“This year’s line-up of dignitaries include Head, Energy and Natural Resources, First Bank Nigeria capital, Ms Rolake Akinkugbe; South African Consulate General to Nigeria, Ambassador Sam Mokghethi; the Chair, Shell companies in Nigeria, Mr Osagie Okunbor Country and Deputy Director of MUSON School of Music, Mrs Edna Soyannwo.

“Against the backdrop of their favorite music, they will discuss their musical preferences in relation to aspects of their lives, personal beliefs, philosophies and more.”

Ibare-Akinsan said they would also be

POEM

Art. Divine

By Sanya-Isijola Moyosore

•From left: Ibare-Akinsan, Mbanefo, Mrs Francesca Emanuel and Chief Femi AdeniyiWilliams

By Francis Abidoye Girlz Rule Band. Philip Uzo and Ranti Ihimoyan have been slated for October 23 FESTIVAL at the evening of Jazz, dance and varieties. SPAN will perform a dance on Octohonouring deserving outstanding ber 24. stakeholders in the performing arts sector.

This year’s festival will close with the And to broaden the appeal of the festival, MUSON day Concert, which would coinhe said, the committee will be partner with cidentally take place with the Gala choral to the Playhouse Initiative to offer the ageconcert, featuring the MUSON choir and less musicals. Jesus Christ Superstar, proschool Orchestra will present Gilbert and duced by Uche Nwokedi (SAN), will be on Sullivan’s riveting opera: The pirates of stage on October 16 and 17 , followed by Penzance. the MUSON Symphony Orchestra in conVice Chairman MUSON, Louis Mbanefo cert conducted by German inspirational visassured that the festival would indeed be iting conductor, Walter-Michael Vollhardt. a treat to the devoted audience, positively Festival recital, a selection of best perinfluence the country’s form of music and formance of the MUSON diploma school, become a pointer to the future direction of comes up on October 19. the Musical Society of Nigeria as a centre The School’s Jazz Band, Big band, the for all forms of art at its peak.

From the inception of time One with eyes born may see One without them May feel A heart doubtless Know A Universe created without folly Every perceived flaw a unique design A montage created like no other Mysteries ensconced within perfection All owe their quintessence to the Supreme Artist Our master designer, loremaster and fount Art created by us always bears a divine aspect Eternal mirrors and sigils of our first estate Art without love is dead Love without art a pale shadow Creativity the lovechild of both Intellect the birthing Midwife

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

15

COMMENTARY EDITORIALS

LETTER

The cost of gas flaring

Unruly guards

•African Union’s prompt response to Burkina Faso botched coup is commendable

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EADERS of African countries who, acting under the auspices of the African Union and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) rose against the imposition of another military government in Burkina Faso have, by their action, restored the vanishing pride of the black man. Within a week of the country’s presidential guards striking, sacking the government and placing the prime minister in detention, the Authority of Heads of States and Government of the AU ordered a restoration of the sacked government. The ECOWAS, at an emergency meeting in Abuja, followed it with a deadline and constituted a team of leaders to enforce the decision.

The move was not just prompt but unambiguous. Unlike previous deci-

‘One lesson Africans have to learn from the Burkinabe scenario is that their destiny is in their hands. Looking up to the United States, or Europe, or even the East, is no solution to the intractable conflicts that have come to define the essence of the continent’

sions that showed the continent as weak and incapable of running her own affairs without the support of the western powers, normalcy had been restored before the West could think of what to do.

Indeed, as the late Nigerian leader, General Murtala Muhammed said in the seventies, Africa could be said to have come of age, if the event of the past few weeks could be isolated.

We also commend the role played by the regular army of Burkina Faso.

The commanders rejected the insolence and had begun to march on Ouagadougou, the capital, when the Presidential Guard backed down.

The guards had been encouraged by their superior equipment, but the army was unfazed.

Africa has been consistently portrayed as utterly dependent on the western powers which at every turn tend to dictate the course of action at a huge cost to the continent. One lesson Africans have to learn from the Burkinabe scenario is that their destiny is in their hands. Looking up to the United States, or Europe, or even the East, is no solution to the intractable conflicts that have come to define the essence of the continent. The squalor, disease, illiteracy, low life expectancy and dependency on raw commodities whose prices are dictated abroad is unacceptable. And, the African leaders owe it a duty to

the present and future generations of Africans to liberate the continent from the shackles of cultural, social, military and mental slavery. Africans must realise that the pride of the black man can only be restored when they show the world that they would not be satisfied with being hewers of wood and drawers of water.

The undiscerning would have been surprised that France that has always depicted itself as champions of the interest of its former colonies in West Africa continued to dither as the budding conflict threatened to turn Burkina Faso to another theatre of war.

African leaders owe the people the duty of ensuring that the economy which drives modern development is paid due attention. Structural defects, low level intra-regional trade and undue taste for imported goods should be addressed. Nigeria is addressed as the ‘Giant of Africa’, but, so far, it has failed to rise to the demands of that appellation. As Japan and China have done for the Asian continent, thus winning their continent respect, the much-awaited African renaissance depends on Nigeria and South Africa.

Ouagadougou is calm now, but Africa could not be said to be free until peace is restored in the Horn and Central Africa, as well as terror stamped out in East and West Africa.

Falae’s kidnap •Nigeria must confront the abduction epidemic squarely

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HE abduction and eventual release of former Secretary to the Federal Government, ex-Minister of Finance and elder statesman, Chief Olu Falae, is yet another stark reminder of Nigeria’s signal failure to properly tackle the kidnapping scourge that has afflicted the country.

Like similar episodes, the abduction of Chief Falae followed an alltoo-familiar trajectory: the victim was going about his legitimate duties when he was accosted by an armed gang which seized him, forced him into a vehicle and disappeared from the vicinity. A few hours later, a ransom demand for N100 million was sent to his family. Some days after, he was released in a blaze of publicity, with the Nigeria Police patting itself on the back for a rescue job well done.

Kidnap scenarios such as these obviously raise more questions than answers. Why is it that those who engage in the business of kidnapping find it so easy to abduct citizens on such a consistent basis?

Why do they always seem able to virtually disappear into thin air, despite the best efforts of security agencies and local vigilante groups to find them? Why has the registration of mobile phone numbers

failed to facilitate the location and apprehension of kidnappers? Why are relatively few of these criminals brought to trial?

While Chief Falae may be arguably the most high-profile victim of kidnapping in the country to date, the list of those who have been abducted reads like a roll-call of the Nigerian elite. It includes the parents of prominent citizens like exMinster of Finance Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Mikel Obi, politicians, businessmen and entrepreneurs. Foreigners resident in the country are not left out; indeed, the current spate of abductions first began with the kidnapping of foreign oil workers in the-then restive Niger Delta in 2006.

Abductions have expanded in variety and scope: terrorism-related kidnappings in the north-east; abductions of politicians during elections; seizures of children by housemaids and drivers; ritualistic abductions of individuals in order to harvest their body parts. Several states have become synonymous with the crime, especially Abia, Anambra, Delta, Edo, Enugu, Lagos, Rivers and more recently, Ekiti.

By some estimates, a minimum of 1,500 individuals are kidnapped in Nigeria on an annual basis. In 2009,

the country was ranked sixth in the top ten kidnap nations. In the first half of 2013, the country accounted for an estimated 26 per cent of global kidnap and ransom cases.

The problem has been worsened by the inadequacy of the country’s overall response. Families are so intent on getting their loved ones back that they are prepared to negotiate with kidnappers, regardless of contrary directives from the security agencies. While this may be a natural response, it simply facilitates the aims of the kidnappers and makes their arrest all the more harder.

‘Kidnap scenarios such as these obviously raise more questions than answers.

Why is it that those who engage in the business of kidnapping find it so easy to abduct citizens on such a consistent basis? Why do they always seem able to virtually disappear into thin air, despite the best efforts of security agencies and local vigilante groups to find them?’

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IR: The continuing flaring of gas reemphasises the aphorism that we are rich in energy resources but poor in energy supply. The Associated Gas Re-Injection Act was made to compel every company producing oil and gas in Nigeria to submit preliminary programmes for gas re-injection and detailed plans for implementation of gas reinjection. It made it illegal after January 1, 1984 to flare gas without the permission of the Minister of Petroleum. The target to stop gas flares have since then moved from 1984 to 2008 and 2011. But gas is still being flared up to date.

In 2014, Nigeria lost about $1billion as oil companies operating in the country flared a large proportion of the gas produced from January to September 2014. According to data from the NNPC, about 295 billion standard cubic feet (scf) of natural gas was flared in the nine-month period. International oil companies and indigenous players burnt a total of 43.7billion scf in January, 50.1 billion scf in February and 38.3 billion scf in March. In April, 22.3 billion scf of gas was flared; 19.7 billion scf in May and 23 billion scf was wasted in June. In July, 29.1 billion scf was flared; 39.1 billion scf in August; 29.5 billion in September; and 44.37 billion in November.

According to the NNPC’s Monthly Petroleum Information, in December 2014, Nigeria lost $133.716million, which is about N26.743billion to gas flaring, as oil and gas companies in the country flared 20.11 per cent of their total gas production. Specifically, the oil and gas companies produced 221.634 billion scf of gas, utilised 183.78 billion scf and flared 44.573 billion scf.

The Nigerian Gas Company (NGC) put the average price of gas at $3 per unit of 1,000 scf, translating, to $133.716 million for 44.573 billion scf flared, and $551.346 million for 183.783 billion scf utilised.

The 1.2 billion scf flared per day has the potential to generate up to 7000MW of electricity, the aggregate gas flared for 2014; about 376.41billion scf can translate into 21.97GW, in addition to its inputs in agro processing, textile plants, fertiliser plants, and the number of jobs created from the multiplier effect.

Despite the penalties, oil and gas operators have continued to flare gas and regulators seem to have looked away. While there is need to interrogate the positions of penalty payments considering the joint ventures arrangements, there is also the need to revisit the issues of gas pricing and availability of gas infrastructures; else the question will be the relative cheapness to flare gas than monetise gas.

This is urging the new administration of President Muhammadu Buhari and the new NNPC management, to constitute a committee to revisit the issue of gas flaring in Nigeria. The payment of gas flaring penalties especially in the scheme of joint ventures with the Nigerian government should be top in their priority. Efforts should be made to harmonise and reconcile domestic gas pricing across markets in Nigeria while seeking ways to attract and sustain foreign investments and funding for gas infrastructures especially for the improvement of gas to power in Nigeria.

• Ofoegbu Donald Ikenna Centre for Social Justice, Abuja.

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

16

CARTOON & LETTERS

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IR: Nigeria at 55 is bedevilled by a plethora of challenges.

Despite the abundance of human, material and natural resources, basic infrastructure and social services are pitiably bad; economic facilities are weak; the educational system apart from being a poor social service, lacks quality, proper orientation and quantity; healthcare delivery system at the primary, secondary and tertiary levels destroys rather than saves lives; agriculture, the highest contributor to GDP at 40 percent and the highest employer of labour at 60 percent is underdeveloped due to neglect and poor policy administration.

The extraction, production and sale of oil and gas have been mismanaged, negatively politicized and corrupted; there is phenomenal corruption at the level of politics and governance; solid minerals which exist in abundance have been neglected or abandoned; ethics and values which are the moral guides and glue of a society have crashed to a level of negative transcendentalism, normlessness and criminality; peace, social and protective security are perennially threatened at the societal and individual levels; there is religious fanaticism and intolerance.

As we celebrate, we must have sober reflections on the way forward. Nigeria’s prospects are enhanced by its strategic location, which will enable it to take advantage of booming demand across Africa and other parts of the develop-

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Now that Nigeria is 55 ing world. Add to that a large and growing population and an entrepreneurial spirit, and the future looks bright. In order to unleash this potential and ensure that the next decade of growth brings sharp reductions in poverty, Nigeria’s leaders must pursue reforms aimed at increasing productivity, raising incomes, and delivering essential services like electricity, good road network, health care and education more efficiently. The government could pursue land title reforms aimed at opening more farmland without deforestation; expand the use of fertilizer and mechanized equipment; and support a marketdriven shift to more profitable crops.

In urban areas, productivity suffers from a high degree of informal employment, sometimes even by major corporations. This keeps too many Nigerians in low-skill, lowpaying jobs and deprives the economy of the dynamism that competitive small and medium-size enterprises create. The spate of internet start-ups that have emerged in Nigeria demonstrates

Apapa: The good times are back

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IR: Whatever magic the Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode put in place to ease the traffic gridlock in Apapa must be sustained.

I spent less than 35 minutes from Shangisha to Lagoon Hospital, Apapa.

I must also thank the Lagos Governor for saving the life of my bosom friend, who was involved in a fatal Accident along Lekki - Epe Expressway last Sunday.

The swift response of the Emergency Team with just a call to 112 and the mobile ambulance (which I now termed hospital on the wheel) was key to my friend’s survival. He was treated free of

charge!

I recall that those mobile clinics were launched by the Lagos state Governor just two weeks earlier.

I must also commend the effort of the medical team at the Lagos Trauma (Accident & Emergency Centre) Ikeja Toll Gate, Near 7-Up. You guys are wonderful and I thank you all!

Honestly, I can say that Lagos is working and Nigeria should learn from this example.

Thank you Mr. Governor and your wonderful team in the health care delivery sector!

• Mojeed Jamiu jamiumojeed@yahoo.co.uk

that the skills are there, and tapping Nigeria’s diaspora can augment that talent pool. To make it easier to do business in Nigeria, the government also will need to streamline processes for registering and running a legal business and, together with aid agencies and the private sector, increase investment in infrastructure.

It will also need to intensify its fight against endemic corruption, which represents a tax on all businesses.

Finally, to promote inclusive growth – essential to relieving human suffering and mitigating social and political tensions – Nigeria must improve public service delivery dramatically.

In this new dispensation in Nigeria, when weighed against existing realities, our president and any other human for that matter stands little or no chance of giving Nigerians the country of our

dreams, in just four years. It is high time, each person, from the head and first child in every household, the class captain in primary schools, the senior prefects, student union leaders, youth corpers, religious leaders, ethnic rulers, the counsellors, governors, ministers and indeed everyone, home and abroad raised his or her head up high, beat his chest and lift our nation high. With nearly one in six Africans being a Nigerian, we are indeed the giant of Africa. Nigeria is ours and only Nigerians can build and celebrate the country, if we all play our parts and do things right.

Arise; salute our nation, Nigeria at 55!

• Dr. Bukola Adenubi, University of Pretoria, South Africa.

Fight against graft: Better late than never

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IR: A visitor to Nigeria, who has witnessed the ongoing war on corruption in the country by various anti-corruption agencies, may wrongly assume that these agencies only came into being few days ago. They may be shocked to realise that some of these agencies have been in existence here for over 10 years. The sudden wake up from long slumber, as it were, by virtually all the anti graft agencies in the country, speaks volume and calls for a closer analysis. Nonetheless, like the saying goes, it is better late than never.

Amongst the ongoing investigations/prosecutions, I find the inquiry into the last year’s Nigeria Immigration Service job scam most instructive. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) recently invited the former Comptroller-General of Immigration Service, David Parradang, for questions into how the Service fund was managed under his watch and possibly how job applicants were allegedly extorted during the recruitment fiasco, which unfortunately claimed the lives of over 13 Nigerians. It is instructive that the Commission is taking this step more than one year after that ill-fated exercise. The implication of this delay is that the proof needed by the commission to effectively prosecute the culprits in

that despicable act might have been tampered with by those fingered in the scam. It needs, however, be stated that the commission must do a thorough job in the circumstance, and this will include extending similar invitation to the arrow head behind that ugly incident, former Interior Minister, Abba Moro. As a matter of fact, Moro ought to have been invited first by the commission considering the role he played thereto.

No at stone should be left unturned towards bringing all the culprits in that disaster to book.

Perhaps, the allegation of witchhunting being deployed by those currently facing anti corruption trials should not have arisen if these agencies had been alive to their duties in the days of yore. It is most regrettable that the agencies are now digging out these infractions committed many years ago. For instance, it took the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) these long years to begin the prosecution of the embattled Senate President, Bukola Saraki, over offences allegedly committed 12 years ago. Little wonder the Senate President has been capitalising on this obvious lapses to whip public sentiments. Much as one does not hold a brief for Senator Saraki, it is pertinent to state that the Bureau and other anti-graft agencies in the country owe Nigerians some explana-

tions and apology on why it took them these years before they begin to act rightly.

Meanwhile, the apparent delay in prosecuting these cases should not be a ground for refusing to submit to the rule of law or trial, as some of the individuals currently facing various corruption charges want us to accept.

The point is: there are no statutory limitations affecting these charges.

Simply put, the fact that EFCC, CCB, ICPC, the Police and other anti-graft agencies did not, at material times, prosecute these allegations can never be an alibi to dismiss the trials as witch-hunting or selective exercise or outright refusal to submit to the courts. An attitude like this can only end up derailing the fight against the malady and return the country to her ugly past.

There is an urgent need for President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration to revive the anti-corruption institutions such that they cannot only bark but it also be able to bite under any government, irrespective of who or which political party is in power. The government, therefore, needs not be deterred by the current subtle campaign by the disgruntled political class to arm twist it.

•Okoro Gabriel, Esq. Lagos.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY,SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

17

COMMENTS

Our Girls; Polio, Martyrs & Billionaires; Falae; HID Awolowo; Pupil: ‘Awo? He owns Awo Univ’

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UR Girls, kidnapped since April 14, 2014 are yet to be freed. Chief Falae was luckier. The large number of Boko Haram members surrendering Tony or being captured should Marinho have among them those with information on some Chibok Girls. The interrogation teams must please ‘KEEP THEM APART AND SINGLE UNTIL AFTER INTERROGATION.’ It is unprofessional for suspects to be herded into one room or vehicle where they can concoct alibis or intimidate others.

Great sympathy to our Muslim brothers and sisters for the huge Hajj losses.

Hurray, Nigeria is polio-free. Wow, great!!! We owe the success to billions of dollars raised worldwide by Polio-Plus, a selfless-service initiative of Rotary International entering a PPP, Private Public Partnership, with the UN, governments, religious and traditional ruler levels. The battle cost Nigeria ‘8 Murdered Polio Martyrs’, health workers murdered on duty. What are their names? Has Nigeria immortalised them and cared for their families? They were murdered on the ‘Polio War Front’ saving Nigeria’s children.

Did the Dangote, Odetola, Adenuga, Babangida, Abdusalam, Abacha remnants, Elumelu, FBN, UBA, MTN, Etisalat, Dozie, Ovia, Osagie, Dantata, Oba Otudeko, Okorocha, Alakija, and other Foundations, the ‘BLACK MONEY’ fund any of this Polio MMM -Major Medical Miracle which would not have happened without the billions in ‘WHITE MONEY’? O Nigeria! Where are your saviours? Foreign as usual? You no shame, plus all your billions?

Nigerian billionaires have missed opportunities for impact.

Bill Gates’s America is already built. Nigeria is underdeveloped and needs Nigerian billionaires’ money.

Yet Nigeria’s billionaires are still in the ‘TAKE’ and not the ‘GIVE’ mode. $1b will change thousands of hospitals and schools in Nigeria. Get on your phone and ask your personal billionaire ‘What is your Legacy Project’. Having $1billion is not a legacy or even an achievement. It is a burden. Helping a billion people is an achievement. Ask me, if you have no

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HESE past few weeks have been tension-soaked across the country. In Abuja, the drama of the absurd played out as Bukola Saraki, the Senate President, suddenly found himself in the duck after his spurious attempt to stall his trial at the Code of Conduct Tribunal fell flat. While some people are saying that the trial is nothing more than witch-hunting by Saraki’s political adversaries, others claimed that since nobody should be above the law, the Senate President must be brought to book, if, indeed, he committed an offence known to the law of the land.

However, last week’s Muslim holiday, provided an interlude. But there are indications that the issue might assume a new dimension on the floor of the Senate as the National Assembly resumes this week.

Different groups are reportedly girding their loins to do battle on the issue of whether it is proper or improper for the Senate President to continue to preside over the affairs of the Senate when, in actual fact, he is currently facing a criminal trial, as it were. Clandestine meetings were believed to have taken place among the various groups during the last holiday, to perfect strategies for the expected grand onslaught. Nigerians have no option than to wait patiently for the next episode in the unravelling scenario.

Just as the Saraki drama played out, an unfortunate incident simultaneously unfolded in Akure, the capital of Ondo State. Here, the once peaceful state seems to have become a staging ground for all forms of criminalities including violent robberies and kidnappings, to name a

ideas on bringing your billions to the people. How about an Aquarium in Lagos?

Chief Olu Falae is free. The police, congrats to them, should investigate the possibility that the kidnapping Fulani Herdsmen may also have kidnapped a Commissioner in Kogi. The police must not discriminate. They must use the same manpower for every kidnap. Too many innocent Nigerians have paid huge sums for freedom or paid with their lives. Yes, the jobs of the Police IGP and his zonal AIGs, did depend on rescuing Pa Falae alive. Their jobs are still at risk if police extrajudicial killings and police corruption are not eliminated immediately and certainly by the October monthly Presidential Anti-corruption Meeting of Heads of Uniformed and Armed Services. Just today I saw two ‘yellow fever’ and one black uniform taking money. In the last week, Police have killed three or four innocent citizens. Who exempted the police from ‘Buhari Change’? Buhari must soon sack someone in the Police as an example.

LET US ANNOUNCE TO NIGERIAN UNIFORMS THAT ‘IN THE NAME OF THEIR CHILDREN, THEY MUST GIVE UP EXTRAJUDICARY KILLINGS AND CORRUPTION’.

Then, we will expose the recalcitrant bribe-takers. Problem solved, people saved and corruption eliminated. Simply by secretly using our millions of cellphones, switched on at stop-and-search points, to record proof, we can gather a million pictures and transmit them to media websites. Then the police will arrest their murderous psychopathic and wayward corrupt colleagues.

We the citizens demand that before unleashing armed police, the government must force the police to recruit 200 psychologists to carry out psychological tests on its weaponcarrying personnel who need programmes of breathalyser testing for alcohol before weapons are issued.

A shocking history lesson! I met a 15 year old attending College in Ibadan.. ‘I study government’, he replied my chitchat. I asked ‘What political incident took place this last weekend?’. He replied ‘I do not know’. I said ‘Mama HID Awolowo died at 100 years minus 2 months’. He showed no understanding.

‘Have you heard of Mama HID Awolowo?’ He replied ‘No.’ I asked ‘Do you know of ‘Awo’ or ‘Awolowo?’. The reply was ‘Yes. He owns the Awo University, in Ife’.

For a Western Region youth in school in 2015 to be so

ignorant of Awoism is an indictment of education at home and school. Awolowo is beyond politics. Over-centralised curricula are stunting our youth. Eliminating local history will not create unity or federalism. We must teach geography, history- local, Federal, African and world. The young mind needs the challenges of scratching the surface of the Zulu, Kiriji, Fulani, Boar wars. Teach history – international, national and local. Every school must teach some unique local historical, geographic, personality and political content.

I had the honour of giving the Obafemi Awolowo Foundation Lecture at NIIA, Lagos, when Abacha misruled. Mama HID Awolowo will indeed Rest In Perfect Peace, RIPP, but the Awolowo story must be taught in South-west schools.

The British and Americans immortalise figures and events in history through TV, radio, music, plays, films, cartoons, documentaries and study. We Nigerians should too through Nollywood et cetera. Where is the film ‘Awolowo’ starring whom as Awo the youth?

So FIFA and VW are exposed for corruption. The VW boss has gone and Blatter is going. Saraki will likely follow with his name expunged from being Senate President if proven to be fraudulently obtained. He should refund any salary illegally received.

The 40km Ibadan Lagos expressway jam needs urgent patch/ patch filling of potholes at Redeemed, Mowe and Ibafo, today.

‘For a Western Region youth in school in 2015 to be so ignorant of Awoism is an indictment of education at home and school.

Awolowo is beyond politics. Overcentralised curricula are stunting our youth. Eliminating local history will not create unity or federalism. We must teach geography, history- local, Federal, African and world’

Falae: Matters Arising few. As we speak, Owo, one of the major towns in the State, has almost been turned into a battleground by robbers and kidnappers, who now operate on that axis with impunity almost on daily basis. In the recent past, several highly placed people including a female Regent of the University town of Akungba, in Akoko area of the state, have fallen victims to the vicious gangs operating in the area.

But by far, the greatest astonishing addition to the list of high profile kidnapping incidents the state has witnessed in recent times occurred when on Monday, September 14, Chief Olu Falae, a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, fell prey to a band of rampaging herdsmen. He was kidnapped while working on his farm located at Ilado Village, in Akure North Local Government Area of the State. Unfortunately, that incident happened on the day the revered old man who was also a former Minister of Finance turned 77.

It was clear that being his birthday, Falae had no intention to venture to his farm on that fateful day.

He had to proceed to the farm after receiving a phone call from one of the workers on his farm. The message relayed to him was that some herdsmen, who had been locked in a running battle with the old man for quite some time for grazing on his farm, had resurfaced again.

Quite oblivious of their true intention, Falae was said to have hur-

‘Perhaps, the time has come to put an end to the nefarious perpetrations of these lawless Fulani herdsmen all over the place, at least, to make it clear to them that they should not constitute themselves into Lords of the Manor’

riedly packed his breakfast in a flask and headed for the farm to see things himself. On his arrival at the farm, he was promptly kidnapped.

The story is that few days before the incident, the herdsmen had been dragged to the police command headquarters in Akure for allowing their cattle to destroy some crops in the farm. At the police headquarters, the herdsmen were said to have been warned to avoid a re-occurrence. At that point, the leader of the herdsmen was said to have threatened to deal with the former SGF and warned him to erect a perimeter fence around the expansive farmland, the size notwithstanding.

However, the news of the abduction elicited fear and trepidation among members of his family, his political associates, friends, governments and other interest groups.

The Oodua Peoples’ Congress, OPC, also lent its voice by calling for the immediate release of Falae by his captors. At a stage, the President, Muhammadu Buhari, directed Solomon Arase, the Inspector General of Police, and other security agencies to ensure the safe release of the septuagenarian technocrat and politician, who was eventually set free by his abductors in the wee hours of last Thursday, September 24. That was after four agonizing days of suspense, physical and psychological torture.

Thank God that Baba, as he is fondly called by his people, got home safely from the “valley of the shadow of death” as epitomised by the kidnappers’ den. It is a pity that the old man was subjected to such a harrowing experience by the lawless herdsmen who have constituted themselves to great nuisance all over the country. From the events preceding the abduction, it is quite obvious that the herdsmen had actually invaded the farm in order to extract a pound of flesh from Baba for having the effrontery and audac-

ity to confront them even when they destroyed his crops. The incident fits perfectly into the same pattern of the usual banditry and mayhem frequently unleashed by these herdsmen on unsuspecting and defenceless members of the public in many states across the country. It is like no single state in the country is spared from this orgy of violence and destruction.

From what some people had observed in the past and their latest exploit, it is very clear that the Fulani herdsmen may be working in tandem with the Boko Haram terrorists to wreak havoc in the country. This assertion is corroborated by the remarks allegedly made by the herdsmen when they were told that the family of Baba had put together two million naira, to appease them, as against their demand for a N100 million ransom, to enable Baba to regain his freedom. They were quoted as having said:”is it N2 million that you want to pay Boko Haram?”

That statement can be interpreted in two ways. The first is that they could have invoked Boko Haram in order to drive fears into the hapless old man and his trembling family to part with a substantial sum of money as ransom. They could also have said that to actually drum it into their ears that though, he may have been hearing about Boko Haram and their heinous atrocities, now, he is face to face with the real Boko Haram and so he must quickly play ball or get wasted like many others in the past.

Without mincing words, it has become a common feature for the Fulani herdsmen to carry about sophisticated weapons and other dangerous weapons concealed in their luggages while prowling all about the forests looking for grazing grounds for their cattles. And once they perceive that they have

Dele Agekameh been wronged in anyway, anywhere, they easily resort to violence to settle scores. This way, many innocent lives have been lost, properties destroyed and houses or a whole community burnt down just to massage their egos.

In many instances, this wholesale brigandage is carried out without the police or any security agency for that matter, lifting a finger. That is one of the reasons why the herdsmen have found it easy, if not a pleasure ride, all the time they decide to vent their anger on anybody or any community that will not permit their excesses. And these people are not invisible. In that case, they should not be treated as untouchables. Perhaps, the time has come to put an end to the nefarious perpetrations of these lawless Fulani herdsmen all over the place, at least, to make it clear to them that they should not constitute themselves into Lords of the Manor.

Nigerians cannot afford another band of heartless terrorists freely roaming about in their midst, causing deaths and destruction!

For comments Text (only) to : 08058354382

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

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BUSINESS THE NATION

E-mail:- bussiness@thenationonlineng.net

NB earmarks N100b for commercial paper project

By Adedeji Ademigbuji

N

IGERIAN Breweries Plc has signed a deal to establish a N100 billion Commercial Paper (CP) Programme to execute the company’s financing strategy, in an increasingly competitive market environment.

During the signing at the firm’s head office, Iganmu, Lagos, the brewer said the programme, believed to be the largest established by a (nonfinancial institution), is expected to complement NB’s other sources of working capital, while diversifying its funding sources to include nonbank investors.

The event was witnessed by representatives of the transaction advisors from Stanbic IBTC Capital Limited, FBN Capital Limited, Banwo & Ighodalo as Legal Counsel, KPMG as Auditors to the Issuer (for the relevant financial years under review), and Stanbic IBTC Bank PLC as Issuing Calculation and Paying Agent as well as officials of the FMDQ OTC Exchange.

On the launch billed for on or before October 8, the Managing Director of Nigerian Breweries, Mr. Nicolaas Vervelde, said: “This transaction underscores our continued commitment to winning with Nigeria and represents the largest ever Commercial Paper programme to be established by a (non-financial institution) corporate issuer following the 2009 guidelines on commercial paper from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

“In that regard, this effort clearly demonstrates our leadership status in the industry and an innovative approach towards executing our company’s financing strategy in an increasingly competitive market environment,” he said.

Also, the Finance Director of NB, Mr. Mark Rutten, said: “This programme is expected to complement our Company’s other sources of working capital, whilst diversifying our funding sources to include non-bank investors.

“Additionally, this programme will improve our ability to periodically access funding at rates mirroring money market and Treasury Bill yields, would provide Nigerian Breweries with additional tools to help manage and optimise its overall funding cost.”

NB has been assigned a top notch investment grade rating of “Aa” by Agusto & Co. Limited.

As highlighted by Agusto & Co, the rating assigned is representative of a company that possesses very strong financial condition and very strong capacity to meet its obligations as and when due, which clearly speaks to the corporate credentials and financial pedigree of Nigerian Breweries.

‘It is regrettable that the damaging consequences of the Ecowas CET policy on the local pharmaceutical manufacturing sector in Nigeria were not considered despite our desperate attempts to draw attention to this. This policy undoubtedly spells doom for the local industry as imported medicines will become far cheaper than locally produced ones’ Chairman, Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Group of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (PMG MAN), Mr. Okey Akpa

140 capital market operators may lose licences N O fewer than 140 capital market operators may be delisted by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) as regulators draw curtain on the recapitalisation.

While intense lobby for a further extension of the recapitalisation deadline continues, sources at SEC and NSE said the capital market regulators would stick to the September 30 deadline.

SEC’s compliance timetable had indicated that a list of the compliant operators would be published on October 2. October 1 is a national holiday in commemoration of Nigeria’s Independence Day. The sources said nothing has changed in the position of the regulators, noting that SEC, will draw the final mark on compliance by the close of business today.

Under the rules, the NSE is required to replicate any regulatory action by SEC, espe-

• SEC, NSE draw curtain on recapitalisation today

By Taofik Salako

cially revocation of licence and suspension of any operator.

Preliminary review by SEC indicated that majority of operators have complied with the new minimum capital requirements for their functions.

Average compliance level ranged from 70 per cent to 95 per cent across the functions. The final list would be made ready on Friday.

The Nation’s investigation, however, indicated that no fewer than 140 capital market operators might be delisted for failure to meet the new minimum capital requirements. Most of these operators also fall within the inactive operators. A new rule on the revocation of dealing li-

cences and expulsion of inactive stockbroking firms came into effect in June this year empowers the NSE to revoke licences of dormant operators.

A status review by the NSE indicated that some 101 licences might be withdrawn, including some 88 inactive capital market operators.

SEC had in December 2013 announced major increases in minimum capital requirements for capital market functions under a new minimum capital structure that was initially scheduled to take off by January 1, this year. It, however, extended the deadline to September 30.

Minimum capital base for broker and dealer was increased by 329 per cent from the existing N70 million to N300 million. Broker, which

currently operates with capital base of N40 million, will now be required to have N200 million, representing an increase of 400 per cent. Minimum capital base for dealer increased by 233 per cent from N30 million to N100 million.

Also, issuing houses, which facilitate new issues in the primary market, will now be required to have minimum capital base of N200 million as against the current capital base of N150 million.

The capital requirement for underwriter also doubled from N100 million to N200 million. Trustees, rating agencies and portfolio and fund managers had their minimum capital base increased by 650 per cent each from N40 million, N20 million and N20 million to N300 million, N150 million and N150 million. A Registrar will now have a minimum capital base of N150 million as against the current requirement of N50 million.

•From left: Mr. Haruna Jalo-Waziri, Executive Director, Business Development, the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE); Mr. Lanre Jaiyeola, Managing Director, Honeywell Flour Mills Plc; Mrs. Oluwayemisi Busari, Company Secretary, Honeywell Flour Mills Plc and Mr. Oladipo Omotoso, NSE, at the Closing Gong Ceremony at the Exchange.

PenCom probes 15,000 employers for failing to remit pension O F the 200,000 employers under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), 15, 000 are being investigated for failing to remit pensions deducted from their employees’ monthly emoluments, Director-General, National Pension Commission (PenCom), Mrs Chinelo Anohu-Amazu has said.

In a report, she said the defaulters have been assigned to Recovery Agents (RAs) to review their records and recover any outstanding pension contributions plus penalty According to her, in pursuance of the statutory responsibility of ensuring compliance with the provision of the PRA 2014, the Commission deployed an application called

By Omobola Tolu-kusimo

Risk Management Analysis system for monitoring remittance of monthly pension contributions by employers.

She said: “Defaulting employers are subject to the regime of sanctions which includes among others a recovery process.

“The framework for recovery of outstanding pension contributions with penalty from defaulting employers among others, provided for appointment of RAs. “Consequently, the Commission has identified and assigned over 15,000 employers to RAs to review their records

and recover any outstanding pension contributions plus penalty. The Commission also follows up on complaints from workers against their employers for failure to remit pension contributions as and when due.”

Mrs Anohu-Amazu noted that where the employer refuses to remit the outstanding pension contributions of its employee within the time stipulated by the Commission, appropriate actions, including instituting legal action are taken.

She further said remittances by state governments have also been irregular.

“Irregular remittance by some state governments contribute to the unfunded RSAs which is

‘Nigeria’s exit from bond Index ‘Fed Govt yet to remit N100b ‘ll hurt external reserves’ retirees’ accrued rights, others’ - P22

- P25

caused by the economic challenges faced within the country.

“The private sector employers also view pension contributions as an additional cost of doing business which translates to non-funding of RSAs. In addition, refusal of employees to allow deduction of their own portion of the pension contributions from their salaries due to lack of awareness of the benefits of the CPS and measures put in place for the safety of the pension funds contribute to poor funding of RSAs.” She stressed that both PenCom and the Pension Fund Administrators (PFA) work towards ensuring employers continuously fund their employees RSAs.

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LCCI to focus on non-oil economy at trade fair

By Okwy Iroegbu-Chikezie

T

HE Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has said the Lagos International Trade Fair (LITF) is aimed at accommodating all sectors of the economy and showcase the potential of the economy beyond oil.

In a parley with reporters on the preparations of the fair tagged, “Enhancing value addition in the nonoil economy”, scheduled to hold between November 6 and 15, the Chairman, Trade Promotion Board of the LCCI, Dr. Olawale Cole, said the LCCI is breaking new grounds in response to the yearnings of the business world as the fair will hold simultaneously in three various venues.

“The Tafawa Balewa Square, Onikan will host the business-to-customer general fair, the MUSON Centre, Onikan, will host the business-to-business and corporate exhibition and the Freedom Park, Broad street will host the creative industry fair, tagged Eko Akete.

“In hosting this fair in these venues, the LCCI aims to hold an all-inclusive fair, which will accommodate all sectors of the economy and expose the potentials of the Nigerian economy beyond oil,” he said.

He noted that the fair has attracted numerous local and international companies and already, they have confirmed bookings from China, Egypt, Japan, Ghana, India, European Union, Indonesia and Pakistan for participation in the fair.

“The need to support the development of the non-oil sector in Nigeria especially now that the country urgently needs to diversify the economy cannot be over-emphasised. Nigeria is a mono-economy country; and it has become clear to every Nigerian that things must change fast. In line with this, especially in today’s business world, developmental initiatives such as investment conference and entrepreneurship development programmes with special focus on the non-oil sector is a means of getting the country out of the present precarious situation,” Cole said.

According to him, another major innovation in the LITF is the Lagos International Trade Fair Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises Development Fora, which will be held for five days during the fair.

From oil and gas to food processing - P 34

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

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THE NATION

BUSINESS MONEY

e-mail: money@thenationonlineng.net

Nigeria’s exit from bond Index ’ll hurt external reserves, says economist W

HAT are the consequences of global agency JP Morgan’s delisting of Nigeria from the Emerging Market Bond Index (EMBI)? The action will threaten Nigeria’s $31 billion external reserves and also hurt its financial and economic rating, says an economist, Mr. Tilewa Adebajo.

In a report obtained by The Nation, Adebajo, CEO, CFG Advisory, said the cost of borrowing would increase, noting that access to the international financial markets for sovereign and corporate entitles will be limited.

The exit, Adebajo argued, would stem the inflow of portfolio investments which peaked at $20.5 billion in 2013.

JP Morgan’s EMBI, with around $210 billion in assets under management, is the most widely used and comprehensive emerging market sovereign debt benchmark. Nigeria was added in the index in 2012 when liquidity was improving, making it the second African country after South Africa to be included.

“To state the obvious, the lack of articulation on policy and economic

Stories by Collins Nweze

direction by the new government is not helping matters and is unsettling the financial markets. Time is money.

And in the fast emerging global fiscal order, lost time and opportunities may never really be regained,” he said.

Adebajo said the government’s next challenge is the validation and structured financing plan for the current fiscal deficit, estimated at N6.5 trillion.

“The government’s actions on the fuel subsidy could significantly increase this figure. With the restructuring and swap of state government commercial bank loans into Treasury Bonds, the new government has increased the domestic debt profile

by N1 trillion overnight. Unfortunately, state governments have not been compelled to execute conditional covenants, such as adhering to the tenets of the Fiscal Responsibility Act, which stipulates provisions for fiscal discipline,” he said.

He said with a $49 billion domestic debt and $10.8 billion external debt overhang, Nigeria is now committing 23 per cent of its fiscal revenues to servicing debt.

“With the levels of projected fiscal deficit, we might exceed the revenueto-debt service best practice benchmark of 25 per cent by year end. The alignment of fiscal and monetary policy which the economy benefitted from over the last five years seems to, have been lost over the last several months,” Adebajo said.

“Nigeria’s financial intermediation rates at 25 per cent cannot support productive investment and development; it will also stunt economic growth.

Major reforms are therefore required in the banking system to support single digit rates. Banks also have to better deploy technology to reduce and manage costs. Their productivity and efficiency levels will consequently improve leading to a more competitive financial services sector.

“Beyond the macro economy, we need to do a critical reappraisal of

•From left: Mr. Olugbolahan Mark-George, Managing Director, Mark-George Consultants; Mr. Abubakar Suleiman, Executive Director, Sterling Bank Plc and Mr. Adewale Akinrinde, Group Head, Propositions & Products, at the press conference to announce the kick off of the bank’s Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Academy ... at the weekend.

Bank chief lists hurdles before ECOWAS’ BANK chief has listed the ports go outside the continent with hurdles before the Eco- single currency 50 per cent of this going to Western

A

nomic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) 2025 single currency target date.

The Managing Director/CEO, Ecobank Nigeria Limited Jubril Aku, said the monetary harmonisation programmes in Africa have not met the African Monetary Cooperation Programme (AMCP), which is essential to the single currency project.

Speaking at the Hallmark Newspapers Roundtable in Lagos, Aku said countries embracing the single currency plan must have a budget deficit as a percentage of their Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of not more than three per cent, with minimised budget financing from the central bank and sustainable public debt levels.

Such country, he said, should also have a rate of inflation not exceeding three per cent; external reserves of at least six months of import cover, maintenance of a stable exchange rate and positive real interest rates.

The Ecobank boss, who spoke on “Regional Integration and Sustainable Development,” said despite the existence of African blocs that have secretariats and regular technical and

ministerial level meetings and summits of heads of state and government, integration efforts have had limited impact so far.

He said since the reality does not match ideals in treaties, protocols and Memoranda of Understanding (MoU), the degree of integration remains highly superficial.

Aku said economic integration would require the resolution of several structural issues such as the creation of a body to control regional money supply and monetary policy which would coordinate regional budgets and another institution that would harmonise commercial and industrial laws.

He said most African countries do not have the industrial or commercial base to serve as export destinations for other countries in the region.

“The input-output matrix across the continent is riddled with huge gaps and draws attention to the need of many African countries, especially key economic powerhouses to rise to higher levels of industrial production and technical service quality,” he said.

“Indeed, 80 per cent of African ex-

Europe and America. On the flipside, Africa imports over 90 per cent of her goods from outside the continent.”

He said theAfrican continent has been blessed with abundant natural resources but its development and growth has been hobbled by poor leadership characterised by weak or non-existent vision. Rather shallow sense of purpose and a socio-cultural context that allows leaders to exclude a broad section of the populace from governance and access to economic resources; cronyism, nepotism and unrestrained avarice have been the predominant sentiments amongst Africa’s public and private sector elites.

“Nigeria should coordinate activities in the Western hemisphere of the continent through the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), while South Africa should engage in a similar assignment in Southern Africa communities through the Southern Africa Development Commission (SADC). Egypt, in turn, should do the same in the Northern axis of the continent – the Arab Maghreb,” he added.

our trade and investment policies needed to ensure that they are properly integrated into the global value added system,” he said.

“Beyond the macro economy, we need to do a critical reappraisal of our trade and investment policies, we need to ensure they are properly integrated into the global valueadded system. The domestic gains and success we have had in the cement sector with import substitution and backward integration has primarily been, driven by an individual and unfortunately not yet replicated,

nor institutionalised in other critical sectors such as agriculture, another potential engine room of Africa’s political economy considering its huge social development and value chain effect.

“Drastic attention also needs to be paid to Customs and Excise reforms and management to ensure proper implementation of Trade Policy, Industrial Development and Investment. The corruption menace of duty waivers, duty evasion, smuggling and weak import documentation also continues to affect the naira, clearly disrupting and discouraging industrial development, investment and expansion.”

Firm’s net profit rises to $10.5m

R

ENAISSANCE Capital recorded $10.5 million net profit for the six months ending June 30, compared with $8.7 million in June last year.

This year’s figures showed the firm delivered strong revenues from its core businesses, including global markets, which showed a solid performance led by particularly strong growth in Fixed Income, Currencies and Commodities (FICC), despite headwinds.

Continued focus on cost management has resulted in a 25 per cent decrease in operational costs yearon-year. Total operating expenses declined to $73.7 million from $98.3 million in 2014 year-on-year. Total operating income reached $97.8 million.

In the first six months of the year, Renaissance Capital has initiated coverage of stocks and sectors in the new frontier space, including consumer, cement, fertiliser and utility companies in Pakistan, as well as the banking and construction sectors in wider Middle East and North Africa (MENA).

As part of Renaissance Capital’s plans to grow its MENA offering from its Dubai office, the firm continued to expand its services in Egypt along with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) markets.

The firm remained committed to developing and strengthening its team with new hires and promotions in fixed income, research and trading operations. Specifically, Victor Lugo joined the firm as Director of FICC Sales, and Elena Kolchina was appointed Director and Fixed Income Strategist in July.

In the same month, Renaissance Capital announced the appointment of James Friel as Global Head of Investment Banking, who joined the

firm from Rothschild. In Sub-Saharan Africa, Temi Popoola was hired as Head of Equities and recently appointed as CEO of the firm’s Nigeria office, to further strengthen its already established offering on the ground.

Renaissance Capital CEO, Igor Vayn, said: “We are pleased to announce strong results as we celebrate two decades of successful operations in emerging and frontier markets. During this time, the Firm has grown from a Russia-focused bank to one of the leading international investment banks in the emerging and frontier space.

Renaissance Capital’s geographical diversification is one of the key factors that led to all-round positive results for the Firm despite turbulent market conditions globally.

He added: “We know that only the highest quality research and service bring the necessary comfort level for investors looking at new markets, from Russia to Africa and across the Middle East and frontier space. Our goal is to stay at the forefront, offering best in class trading, banking and access to capital to our clients from around the world.

Looking to the rest of the year, we will use our expertise and experience to navigate the challenging market conditions as we remain committed to our core markets, and work to maintain our leading positions across the product offering.”

After hinting that the Central Bank of Nigeria’s currency controls were making Nigeria’s bond market transactions too complex to meet its rules, JP Morgan, the United Statesbased lender, has moved to expel Nigeria from it) by the end of the month, as a result of the illiquidity and lack of transparency in our foreign exchange market.

Bank gets ISO certifications

K

EYSTONE Bank has ob tained two certifications from the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO). The certifications are the ISO 20000 for IT Service Management Systems (ITMS) and ISO 27001 for Information Security System (ISMS).

The certifications attest that the bank aligned with world-class standards in protecting customer information and providing stellar services to its stakeholders via efficient and effective use of Information Technology.

It was issued after a rigorous audit exercise conducted by the British Standard Institute (BSI), in keeping with the lender’s vision to be the preferred partner to its customers via the use of Information Technology.

According to the Executive Director, Operations & Technology, Mrs. Yvonne Isichei, “Keystone Bank is

committed to following global best practices and standards in all its operations because we believe our customers should be assured of consistent service delivery, convenience and reliability.

“These certifications also give our stakeholders increased confidence and confirms the security of information and information technology service at all levels.”

Mrs. Isichei added: “With this, customers can be assured that we have put processes in place to protect the information that they give us.”

The British Standard Institute (BSI) recognises companies that have implemented systems and structures that ensure their operations are in line with international best practices.

The BSI Group is one of the largest and most experienced certification bodies focused primarily on training, auditing and certification of qualified organisations.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

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MONEY Banks are abandoning telecommunication networks to create alternate channels to support mobile money platforms and give subscribers value for their money. This new digital platform may define the success of mobile payment in future without involving telcos, writes COLLINS NWEZE.

Going for alternate mobile money channels A

S 45-year-old lawyer, Moshood Rasaq, waited outside the courtroom for his colleagues, his smartphone beeped with a familiar SMS message alert. It was another reminder for him to pay his electricity bill.

In three minutes, he opened his mobile money platform on his phone and the payment was done.

A few years ago, he could only have imagined making such payment with ease without going to the bank.

With mobile money, instead of paying with cash, cheque, or credit cards, a consumer uses a mobile phone to pay for goods and services, and it is now the new face of banking but not without some hitches.

Expectedly, mobile money is yet to be fully embraced by the banking populace because of poor connectivity by telecommunication operators (Telcos).

In many cases, poor connectivity hinders seamless completion of transactions. Some customers explained that the fear of getting transactions completed at record time without hitches has prevented them from doing banking the mobile way.

For instance, Chinyere Okafor, a sales girl in Lagos, lamented her experiences in using mobile money platforms. “I tried to send money to my brother in Aba using a mobile platform but the transaction was stalled because of poor network. I went to my bank to make the deposit. Until banks solve connectivity challenges and build confidence in the network, I will not try it again,” she said.

Cases like this have prompted banks to rethink their mobile money strategies. Hence, to achieve a seamless mobile money services, a consortium of six banks and Unified Payments have inaugurated PayAttitude, an electronic payment scheme that allows transactions in online and offline platforms.

Chairman, PayAttitude, Victor Etuoku, who listed the participating banks as FirstBank of Nigeria Ltd, Zenith Bank Plc, Access Bank Plc, Diamond Bank, Skye Bank Plc and United Bank for Africa Plc, said the lenders are commitment to making the project succeed.

He said the collaboration with Unified Payments on PayAttitude is expected to drive innovation in service delivery, convenient mobile payment system and making Nigeria’s financial system the “safest and fastest growing amongst emerging markets.

“PayAttitude guarantees subscribers the confidence and comfort of successful mobile payment for goods and services at merchant locations at all times, notwithstanding the challenges of telecommunication or unavailability of network in the merchant’s bank or the customer’s bank,” he said.

Managing Director/CEO, PayAttitude, Agada Akpochi, reiterated that challenges of telecommunication or unavailability of network in the merchant’s bank or the customer’s bank will no longer delay transactions.

The GMD/CEO, FirstBank, Bisi Onasanya, affirmed that no

• CBN Governor Godwin Emefiele

doubt Unified Payments and PayAttitude would redefine the domestic payments ecosystem that had been plague numerous challenges.

The bank chief said the lender is working to constantly provide dynamic and relevant solutions that will improve the lifestyle of its customers whilst ensuring the safety and security of their funds.

He noted that with the developments in the electronic money industry, it became imperative for the payments industry to look inward for a solution that will guarantee successful retail payments of Point of Sale (PoS) terminals without depending where online real-time communication is not required between the acceptance device and the customers’ accounts in the bank.

Besides being part of the PayAttitude platform, Access Bank Plc went a step further, by inaugurating a new multi-banking payment solution, PayWithCapture.

The platform, a mobile payment solution, allows customers to make payments by scanning a merchant’s pre-generated code using the camera of their mobile device.

The product, the lender explained, can be linked with different payment cards, giving us-

• GMD Access Bank Plc Herbert Wigwe

ers options on payment instrument of their choice.

The bank’s Group Managing Director, Herbert Wigwe said: “Forging growth in mobile payment solutions requires inclusiveness. For the potential of mobile payment technologies to truly explode, it is important that we begin to see it as more than a bank initiative but more of a consumer initiative. That is where inclusiveness comes in”.

Telcos react Managing Director, Airtel Nigeria, Segun Ogunsanya, has called for a review of the current mobile money model, saying a telco-led model will help expand retail banking, thereby driving financial inclusion in the unbanked segment.

Telecoms companies are not permitted to provide their own mobile money services as the current model approved by the financial regulator, CBN, empowers banks to provide mobile money services while telecoms companies play only a supporting role.

Speaking, at the yeraly lecture of the Chartered Institute of Bankers in Nigeria (CIBN) in Lagos, Mr. Ogunsanya, said for the mobile money market to reach its full potential, it is im-

• NDIC MD Umaru Ibrahim

portant that restrictions on telcos activity in mobile money are lifted.

CEO, MTN Nigeria, Michael Ikpoki, urged banks to expand its retail footprints; they must seek to develop simple products, push for transparency and ensure that their products and services are relevant to the target segment.

CBN defends policy The CBN has also admitted that its mobile money expectations are not met, despite N5 billion annual turnover recorded by operators. CBN Director, Banking Supervision, and Chairman, Nigeria Electronic Fraud Forum (NeFF), ‘Dipo Fatokun, defended the bank-led model, saying the CBN does not regulate telcos and will not give them total control of the project. He said the CBN will continue to monitor progress being made in the mobile money space.

He said: “It is not correct that we have not made progress in mobile money. It is right that our expectations on mobile money has not fully been met and probably because we were very ambitious in setting the target.”

He regretted that most of the mobile money transactions are for subscription payment, and remittances, like mobile wallet sending money to account in the

‘I tried to send money to my brother in Aba using a mobile platform but the transaction was stalled because of poor network. I went to my bank to make the deposit. Until banks solve connectivity challenges and build confidence in the network, I will not try it again’

bank, or account in the bank sending money to mobile wallet.

NDIC’s connection The Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) has called on stakeholders in the mobile money business to seek ways of extending the service to a larger proportion of the population.

NDIC’s chief, Umaru Ibrahim, who made this known during a roundtable discussion on mobile money services in Lagos, said there are over 100 million mobile phone lines in the country.

He said: “According to Enhancing Financial Innovation and Access (EFiNA) survey, the rural population is 71 per cent, while 76.2 per cent of the population remains unbanked. Mobile phone ownership is 55.6 per cent in the rural areas.”

He explained that effective rendering of mobile banking financial services can be a key mechanism in achieving the objective of National Financial Inclusion Strategy (NFIS) based on the huge success recorded by Kenya, Uganda and South Africa in enhancing financial inclusion through mobile financial services.

Ibrahim said mobile banking subscribers will soon get deposit insurance coverage, with each subscriber guaranteed up to N200,000, or N500,000 as applicable to Microfinance Banks/ Primary Mortgage Banks and Deposit Money Banks (DMBs) respectively, in the event of bank failure.

He said if a bank fails, the insured mobile account can be transferred to another sound bank, to further engender public confidence in the system and promote financial stability. According to him, the framework for extending deposit insurance to individual customers of mobile payment services is being finalised.

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

THE NATION INVESTORS

PZ Cussons streamlines operations to enhance returns

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Z Cussons Nigeria Plc has embarked on a restructuring programme aimed at streamlining the operations of the conglomerate, minimise costs and unlock global synergies that could enhance performance and returns to shareholders.

Chairman, PZ Cussons Nigeria Plc, Chief Kola Jamodu, outlined the programme in a preview presented to shareholders at the Annual General Meeting of the company in Calabar, the Cross Rivers State capital.

Shareholders at the meeting approved the distribution of N2.4 billion as final dividend, bringing total dividend for the year ended May 31, 2015 to N3.19 billion. The company had distributed interim dividend of N794 million.

With the approval, shareholders will receive a final dividend per share of 61 kobo, in addition to interim dividend per share of 20 kobo, representing a total dividend per

•Shareholders get N3.2b dividends Stories by Taofik Salako Capital Market Editor

share 81 kobo, the same amount paid in the previous year. The final dividend becomes payable today.

Jamodu said the company was geared towards meeting stakeholders’expectations by deploying the right strategic and tactical plans to deliver a strong performance in the years ahead.

He outlined that the company, as part of the global PZ Cussons, is adapting its management structure to reposition as a consumer-led company.

“The impact of this is that brands which have a global presence will be managed centrally, thus reducing the cost of implementing consumer relevant product innovations and offerings, and a similar approach will be adopted for regional brands. The supply chain is

being integrated into a single structure across the globe and the sales function of will align across defined route to market strategies with consistent ways of working,” Jamodu said.

He however added the centralisation will not undermine local insights as market peculiarities would still be taking into consideration on the company’s new product developments to ensure that consumers in the local markets are the driving force of the company’s investments.

According to him, the optimisation of the company’s supply chain processes will continue while it will also continue to invest in its core brands and growth categories through its planned extension into new routes to market, thus minimising the cost base.

He expressed optimism on the macroeconomic outlook noting

that the events and developments since the emergence of the new government of President Muhammadu Buhari have strengthened the company’s confidence.

Jamodu said PZ Cussons Nigeria has continued to brace the odds in delivering competitive results.

Key extracts of the audited report and accounts of PZ Cussons Nigeria for the year ended May 31, 2015 showed that total sales rose marginally from N72.90 billion in 2014 to N73.12 billion in 2015. The company’s top-line cost of sales dropped by 1.9 per cent to N52.67 billion in 2015 as against N53.71 billion in 204. However, operating expenses increased by 7.1 per cent from N12.89 billion to N13.8 billion.

The company also came under pressure from financing costs, which rose by 215.4 per cent from N141.05 million to N444.86 million. Consequently, profit before

tax slipped by 5.66 percent from N6.95 billion to N6.56 billion.

Profit after tax also declined by 10.7 per cent to N4.6 billion compared with N5.1 billion in the previous year. Earnings per share dropped by 11.72 per cent to N1.03 as against N1.16 in 2014. The conglomerate’s net assets, meanwhile, inched up 2.67 per cent from N42.54 billion in 2014 to N43.67 billion.

“Overall, it is gratifying to note that after taking into account the impact of the tough operating conditions and competitive environment, our company performed satisfactorily against peers in the sector. We are also well poised to sustain and improve on this base going into the future,” Jamodu assured.

He pointed out that the company had maintained a strong cash position despite accelerated payments to foreign suppliers in the wake of the continued weakening of the Naira.

‘Multiple taxes weighing down companies’

T

•From Left: Mr. Tunji Kazeem, Head, Enterprise Risk Management, Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE); Mr. Oscar Onyema, Chief Executive Officer, NSE; Mr. Emmanuel Nnorom, Chief Executive Officer, Transcorp Plc and Mrs Dupe Olusola, Managing Director, Teragro Commodities Ltd during a closing gong ceremony at the Exchange.

N100b investments in steel industries at risk

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VER N100bilion investments by private steel manufacturing companies in the country are at the risk of being eroded if urgent steps are not taken by the Federal Government to address challenges besetting the sector, experts have said.

Raising the alarm on Monday in Lagos was the management staff of African Industries Group and owners of African Foundries Limited, the largest steel manufacturing company operating in the company.

Giving the report of the nation’s steel sector, the Chief Operating Officer (Steel), African Industries Group, Mr Sanjay Kumar said there are over 30 private steel plants producing various steel products in the country with investments that are over N100billion since inception, adding that the investments could be jeopardised if nothing meaningful was done to address the issues bedevilling the sector.

He said: “Already, about four steel plants have completely shut down and more will follow soon because many are currently operating below 30% of production capacity. Most of these steel plants are now operating two weeks a month and are closed for the remaining two weeks of the month due to lack of demand. Cost of restarting each time is very high and adds to the cost burden of the ailing steel companies. Steel consumption is largely driven by government initiative on infrastructure projects.”

The best way to rescue the steel

By Ibrahim Apekhade Yusuf

sector from collapse, he said, “Is for the federal government to make a definite policy of patronising made in Nigeria steel products (iron rods) for all government projects and give specific directive to all their contractors to buy made in Nigeria iron 30% of production capacity.

“There is complete neglect of the involvement of the players in the steel sector in the formulation of the Nigeria industrial policy. All over the world, due to importance of steel in the development of the economy, the views and opinions of the key players from steel industry are usually sought and obtained by the government in the formulation of economic policies as being done for the oil or financial sectors. Unfortunately in Nigeria, the steel sector has been left out all these years,” he regretted.

Kumar, who disclosed that African Industries Group is the largest steel manufacturing group in Nigeria, added that the group has four steel manufacturing plants at Ogijo (Ogun State), Ikorodu (Lagos State) and Suleja (Niger State).

“African Foundries (AFL), the flagship company of African Industries Group is one of the few steel companies in Nigeria producing iron rods meeting British standard (BS 4449-2005 Grade B500B).

It has capacity to produce 0.5 million tons of BS 4449-2005 Grade B500B Iron rods. AFL has international standard testing laboratory equipped to

measure mechanical and chemical properties of Iron rods and automatically test its geometry done in European steel plants. AFL follows all management practices laid under IFC and World Bank guidelines.”

The African Industries Group boss recalled that African Industries got involved in the steel manufacturing in their quest to meet a gap between demand and supply at the beginning of democratic dispensation in Nigeria in 1999.

“At that point in time the government started with the rebuilding of infrastructure and there was a clarion call for direct foreign investment. There was confidence in the Federal Republic of Nigeria for foreign investors to invest because of the democratic ideals. Furthermore, we wanted to be part of the foundation of the industrial policy of Nigeria knowing too well there would not be any concrete industrial revolution without Steel,” he stated.

He however, urged the government to create a special power tariff for the steel industry and make available an intervention fund at lower interest costs to prevent the immediate collapse of this private steel industry where many are operating below 30percent capacity and overburdened with high interest costs, while waivers/ concession may not stop completely for certain infrastructural development, the

portion of iron rod importation in any waiver should be expunged.

Also, the Director-General , Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Dr. Joseph Odumudu, said most products, including steel products being manufactured in the country are of high qualityand can compete favourably with their counterparts in the global market.

The SON boss, who was represented by Mr. Bede Obayi, Director, Inspectorate and Compliance, SON, canvassed patronage, saying that such is the only way to encourage local manufacturers.

“For every products imported into the country, we are exporting jobs out of Nigeria.This is the age of diversification. It is very critical that we patronise made in Nigeria products,” he stressed.

Also, Director-General, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Mr. Remi Ogunmefun, said the steel industry all over theworldplaysastrongroleindevelopment.

“Europe, America, developed their industry and that has been the base of development. The steel industry in Nigeria is facing some challenges. One of the areas hurting is patronage. The issue is so simple we have to convince government and put pressure on them on the need to patronise Nigeria made products.

Nigerian products are good. Our products can stand out anywhere in the world. This is the age of diversification. We have to create policies that will change the sorry situation,” he said.

HE Director-General, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Remi Ogunmefun, has described as scandalous the unprecedented level of taxes levied against manufacturing companies operating in the country, saying the development is a disincentive to business.

He noted that manufacturers are already overburdened by a lot of challenges including limited infrastructure, which is why it is unthinkable that they are continuously being overstretched.

“I can tell you without mincing words that many manufacturing companies in the country today pay one form of levy or the other to at least 25 agencies, including federal, state and local government. This is killing. How can manufacturers survive in this kind of hostile environment, it is impossible?” Ogunmefun asked.

According to him, manufacturers are groaning under severe multiple taxation that adds to the cost of business and disrupts the manufacturing chain.

The way forward, he said, is for the government to streamline these taxes to encourage the growth of companies.

FMDQ OTC lists N8b NMRC bond

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NVESTORS in the N8 billion Nigeria Mortgage Refinance Company (NMRC) bond now have a secondary market to trade on their investments as the FMDQ OTC admits the mortgage bond to its official list.

The N8 billion NMRC bond carries a coupon rate of 14.9 per cent and due on 2030. The N8 billion bond is part of the company’s N140 billion Medium-Term Note Programme.

The establishment of the NMRC in 2013 set in motion the course towards homeownership from accessibility to affordable, adequate and quality housing in the Nigerian economy, through the promotion and development of the primary and secondary mortgage markets in Nigeria.

However, a crucial aspect in the success of the NMRC model being the raising of finance from the debt capital market through regular and large issuances of bonds. The first tranche was the N8.0 billion that will be listed on the FMDQ OTC. FMDQ OTC stated that the high-profile listing of the NMRC also highlighted the financial market development efforts of the over-the-counter market.

Newspaper of the Year

AN EIGHT-PAGE PULLOUT ON THE SOUTHWEST STATES

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

PAGE 25

As Nigeria battles youth unemployment, SIKIRU AKINOLA reports that production of special Yoruba traditional fabric known as aso-oke is generating employment opportunities and millions of Naira for youths of Iseyin, an Oyo community.

•Some men weaving aso-oke

Aso-oke: Fortune from uncommon venture

I

INSIDE

SEYIN, the rustic town in Oyo State, prides itself as the largest producer of the Yoruba traditional fabric, aso-oke.

Located about 80 kilometres away from Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, Iseyin is the gateway to Oke-Ogun, the northern part of the state with 10 local government areas.

Fabrics estimated at over N3 million are rolled out daily to meet the needs of several Yoruba people holding one ceremony or the other. The venture provides

ready jobs for teeming youths who derive pleasure and contentment in earning decent living from it.

For its economic importance and social relevance, demands for asooke in all parts of the country, and by the Yoruba in the Diaspora, continues to make Iseyin the hub of local production, and employment generation.

For wedding ceremonies, funeral, landmark birthdays, coronation and conferment of chieftaincy titles, among others, aso-oke remains the toast of the Yoruba people.

MicCom Foundation: Another feather in its cap

PAGE 28

They come in different styles and quality such as sanyan and alari among others.

Biodun Sangotikun has a postgraduate degree in Electrical Electronic Engineering having completed his Higher National Diploma (HND) in the same field from the Polytechnic, Ibadan seven years ago.

One would have expected him to be working in an engineering company or be self-employed but his case is different. He still weaves aso-oke, even after he got employment with Iseyin Local Government

Area. Almost 22 years ago, while in secondary school, he had begun weaving because “as an Iseyin indigene, we inherited the art from our forefathers. Weaving actually began in Iseyin. And it will interest you to know that all my educational pursuit were sponsored with the proceeds I made from this business,” he told Southwest Report.

It was later discovered that Biodun rides a ‘pencil’ camry. He, however, said the challenges in weaving ýaso-oke are more than the profit.

Free cancer screening for women

PAGE 29

Revealing how he works for 10 hours per day, Biodun said: “What they (dealers) make in less than two hours is far greater than what we make in three days.

Our effort is not commensurate with what we get. There are many challenges associated with this business. The materials we use in weaving this fabric are too expensive. It is expensive compared to the amount we sell the product.

“To make an ipele (shawl), the Continued on page 26

Ogun tackles filth

PAGE 30

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

26

SOUTHWEST REPORT

Aso-oke: Fortune from uncommon venture Continued from page 25 material will cost us between N2, 300 and N2, 500. What caused this is the fact that we don’t value our industrial sector. There is no help from government. We have seen inferior materials brought from China and people buy them.

People from Ghana import materials into the country and government continues to watch. Our hand-woven fabric is better than the ones made by machine.”ý In the olden days, you are not completely dressed without an ipele (shawl) for women and an agbada with a fila abeti aja (dog ear’s cap) cap to match.

Apart from the fact that the Yoruba believe that the trade began in the ancient town, everybody is involved. Behind every shop you see, with massive wares, there is a weaving point. You will be delighted to know that most of the residents make fortune from weaving and selling the fabrics.

Southwest Report learnt that people who are into other businesses and have big shops are in the business.

Popular among the Yoruba people and used for every occasion, the fabric comes in various colours, designs and qualities. It takes quality time to weave the fabric because the wool is delicate, though silk can also be used to enhance the colour and material. Aso-oke, which is woven with elaborate unique patterns made from dyed strands of fabric that are woven into strips of cloth, are of three major kinds namely alaari, sanyan and etu.

Biodun further revealed that most of the popular people are trained weavers as all the beautiful houses built in the past four decades were owned by weavers.

To make aso-oke, it involves a tedious process. The thread used in weaving aso-oke is made of cottoný.

Usually planted during the rainy season and harvested between November and February of the following year, it is kept in the bar for spinning. The cotton seed are removed from the wool with a bow-like instrument, splindler called orun in Yoruba language.

After sorting, pattern and designs would be made on the asooke while the cloth is being woven. In doing this, akata (propeller), iye (long wheel), akawo (short wheel), gowu and kigun (rollers), aasa (strikers), omu (extender) are used in holding the reels.

To make the cotton into bundles, the cotton reels are put upon the hangers on the sets of metallic pegs on the ground during patterning. With this put in place, the weaving process begins.

For quality and durable production, the thread is first washed, using starch after which it is left out to dry in the sun. It can take up to three hours to finish weaving one piece and can take up to two weeks to finish a complete customised aso-oke cloth. This process can be much longer during the rainy season.

Describing the process, one of the weavers said: “The rolled cotton will be neatly inserted into the striker through the extenders.

The weaver will tie iro (filler) on his seat. There are two or more holes on the staff in which a small

peg is tagged. On the upper hand of the omu (extenders), there is okeke (wheel or axle) for pulling the omu up and down. There are two step pedals under the extenders (omu) which the weaver presses down interchangeably during weaving.

“The pedal, when pressed, enables the cotton to open and the reeler put through to one side while the striker knocks the reel to and fro to another side. The striker allows the reel to be finely set interchangeably. The weaver handling the oko (motor) throws it inside the open cotton to be received by his other hand. Movement of the motor continues faster as if the weaver is not touching it at all.

“The reel inside the motor will start giving a peculiar sound; sakala - si - sakala - sa, sakala - si - sakala - sa.

“As the weaver continues this way, the cloth is weaved and gradually extends forward. The weaver uses the drawer to pull the cloth towards him and the carrier obeys the force and moves towards him while weaving continues.”

•Wasiu Amodu of Alimoh New Primary School ISeyin

•Sangotikun Favour of Ajoke Nursery

Fortune from an unusual venture If not for the weaving business, crime rate would have increased in the town as unemployment would have taken its tolls on the teeming youthful population. They youth would have engaged themselves in nefarious activities. Even most people who are into other businesses, according to our source, set up their business with proceeds made from weaving business. As it is, it has continued to provide employment opportunities for the bulk of their population and has contributed to the growth of the local economy.

At Arapa’s compound in Iseyin, Southwest Report encountered a 44year-oldý Waheed Isiak. He began professional weaving over 20 years ago.

He said: “I learnt the trade from our people. When I finished my Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE), I intended to further my education but was unable to do so due to lack of finance. Faced with the situation, I then decided to learn a trade. Weaving was what came to my mind. Since I started the business, I have been making it.

“To the glory of God, I have my own house. Two of my children have finished their National Certificate of Education (NCE) programmes while the third one is in his first year at the Emmanuel Alayande College of Education; Oyo.ý It is through this industry that I became what I am today. I have no other means of livelihood.”

He, however, expressed concern over lack of government’s intervention in the business. He said the importation of what he described as tapanpa (damask) almost killed the business during the administration of ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo.

“The importation of damask by government, especially during Obasanjo’s second term threatened our business,” he recalled.

On the gains of the profession, he said: “We have ýachieved what we never thought. Even if we continue to encounter challenges, we will overcome it.” Pointing to one of his children weaving aso-oke, he said: “He has started his own. I will not allow him leave this profession; but I will encourage him to be educated to the highest level. Moreover, many of our people are currently observing hajj (pilgrimage) as we

•A woman weaving Aso-Oke

‘Government can project us by making us listed in the world trade. By doing this, we will be known and people will patronise us. They should ban the importation of similar products. If government can provide a factory for us with a covered sheet or tarpaulin, it will help our production as we will work all night... We were using cotton before; we had to resort to the use of metallic thread. It makes our works to shine and compete favourably with damask’ speak and it is through this business they were able to sponsor their trips.

“Government can project us by making us listed in the world trade.

By doing this, we will be known and people will patronise us. Also, they should ban the importation of similar products. Sometimes, we lose; supply is more than demand. However, we make brisk business during Christmas and festive periods. ”If there is no rain, the production is high. If government can provide a factory for us with a covered sheet or tarpaulin, it will help our production as we will work all night.”

He said the importation of damask by late former First Lady; Stella Obasanjo made people to lose interest in aso-oke.

“Our people had to rethink and came up with new initiative. We were using cotton before; we had to resort to the use of metallic thread. It makes our works to shine and compete favourably with damask. People have started using our product again,” he said.

Continuing, he said the trade has generated employment for most of his brothers and friends. “Some of them

sell while some of them weave. ýThey are making millions from it. And I must tell you that there is no weaving joint you will get to that you won’t see a graduate,” he said.

Southwest Report encountered some underage children helping their parents and brothers in the weaving just as children between the ages of four and seven years were not left out as they were seen assisting in shifting the okuku.

When asked if he would like to continue with the trade, 16year-old Adewale Waheed, an SS 2 student of Faramora Grammar School, Atori Iseyin said he was born into it and will never leave it for anything except his pursuit of education.

“I have started long ago. I started by helping my father separate the wool. And it has not stopped my studies. I want to be a broadcaster in the futureý,” Adewale said.

The case of Olaide Waheed was not different from that of Adewaleý. The JSS 3 student of St. John’s Grammar School

•A boy with rolls of weaving threads

Iseyin, who wants to be a medical doctor in the future, started weaving five years ago.

In the case of Saheed Awoniyi, ýhe has not made enough from it despite the fact that he started 25 years ago. Though his parents were into the trade, he also learned it as an apprentice. He said their price has not changed despite the inflation in the cost of materials used in making the fabric.

Moshood Lukman Alani said he would not leave the trade even if he becomes a professor as he won’t stop at anything to raise money.

The holder of National Diploma Certificate of the Rufus Giwa Polytechnic began weaving in 1989. He learned it from his uncle when he was in primary school.

“I will go to his place and watch as he weaved. Afterward, I became interested. I have never looked back since then. That is the work I do. Even most of the teachers and principals of schools here in Iseyin still weave. The work has reduced poverty.

“If not for this, you would have been able to count all of us in Iseyin. Many people are in the work place. This is the only work that brings youth together. I financed my education with this and established a barber’s shop with it and I am happily married and have

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

27

SOUTHWEST REPORT Mrs. Iyabode Ayantunde was born into the trade and she said: “At first, I did not have interest in the business until I grew up. I saw the opportunity in it later and I must tell you that it has been rewarding,” she said, adding that “there is no work without its challenges. It is not preventing me from the home chores and other things.

I go to pray at the appropriate time.

Everything I have done, I got the money from this business,” she said.

How the material gets to the end users

ursery and Primary School Iseyin

eads for making of Aso-Oke

children. Government should subsidise the cost of the materials,” he said.ý

They are either taken to the market for sale or dealers come to take them. One of the weavers told Southwest Report that they want a permanent market in the town to boost their trade. With this, people from all walks of life will have come to Iseyin and it will further boost the town’s economy.

Currently, there are two major designated centres for the trade.

One is in Oje, Ibadan while the other is in Ede, Osun State. They attract buyers from Ondo, Akure, Kaduna, Kano, Sokoto and even other countries in the West African sub- region.

While Alaari is very expensive because it is used for important occasionsý, the average price for either of these ranges between N25, 000 and N30, 000 for a complete attire. To get an ipele and gele, the price is between N7, 000 and N10, 000, depending on the chosen design.

The high price cannot be unconnected with the high cost of materials and the time it takes to produce them.

To reduce the high price and improve quality, the weavers urged government to resuscitate the old cotton industry to make materials cheaper and accessible. The high price of imported materials is affecting our profit margin. A complete material which formerly goes for N9, 000 is now as low as N4, 500; whereas the cost of material is skyrocketing.

These materials come in different colours and sometimes they are not even available in the market in the desired ranges.

Apart from declining patronage, high cost of materials and unhealthy competition with foreign textile, one other major challenge confronting the industry is lack of access to loan. The inability of the people in the industry to access loans from either the commercial banks or attract government’s direct assistance is partly blamed on lack of credible association to stand as guarantor for them.

•From left: Pastor Prisca, her husband and Capt. Emmanuel (rtd) and the students during the graduation ceremony

Entrepreneurial training for Ogun youths

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S the country’s unemployment situation worsens, the Blessed Gumpat Foundation (BGF), a non-governmental organisation (NGO), has organised skill acquisition training for youths of Olambe community, Ogun State.

Over 80 people received training in different skills which included catering services, hat and bead making, event management, cosmetology (liquid soaps, air freshener etc), dish making, barbing, cocktail drinks, make-ups and gale, art and sign, black soap, tie and dye, basket weaving, ankara craft, cake making and snacks making, among others.

The Coordinator of the programme, Pastor Timpaul Prisca said the foundation was committed to poverty eradication and alleviation. She also said there was need for entrepreneurship development and skill acquisition for the youth.

This, she said, would impact positively on the immediate environment and the society as a whole.

Apart from providing teaching aids, handout/training manuals, graduation gowns and certificates to successful participants, Prisca said the foundation would consider assistance for trainee(s) in dire need of finance to set up his or her workshop The foundation, which is also nonprofit-based, was established for the purposes of empowerment and skill acquisition for the youth and the aged alike. According to the coordinator, the centre has goodwill for the homeless and children of school age who she said are rather hawking on the street instead of being in the class-

By Ambrose Nnaji

room.

She told Southwest Report that the foundation has the intention of building skill acquisition centres in the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in the nearest future.

“Our target audience cuts across everyone who wants to be boss of his own and who wants to have streams of income in all rural/urban communities of the country,” she said.

According to her, the foundation is in partnership with international bodies and local organisations in order to create wealth and ensure financial freedom among its target groups through training, lecture, donation and grants.

If government and other publicspirited individuals or group of individuals would support the initiative, the rate of unemployment would be reduced if not eradicated.

On some of the drawbacks the foundation experiences, the coordinator said funding was a major challenge confronting it.

She said: “Financial support is hardly coming from anybody, including the government. It’s all about passion to ensure that the vision is not stifled that informed our doing it by ourselves.”

She also said responses from benefiting communities were not very encouraging, adding that people were expected to come out en masse to key into the training. They didn’t believe what we have come to do; perhaps such things hardly ever come to them.

Apart from the training, the NGO also donated some hospital equipment

to facilitate the rehabilitation of the dilapidated primary health centre in the community.

Commending the organisation’s efforts towards improving the living standard of members of the community, Chairman, Olambe Area Community Development Council (OACDC), Captain Babatope Emmanuel (rtd) said the empowerment programme would be significant to widows, women and youths that are idle. According to him, the training would go a long way in reducing youths’ disturbances in the area.

He also said the hospital equipment donated by the foundation would spur community efforts to rehabilitate the primary health centre, saying the health centre had been abandoned for a very long time due to lack of government’s assistance. ”We are grateful to the Blessed Gumpat Foundation for the empowerment programme it brought to this community. We are also grateful for the hospital equipment it donated to the community’s health centre.

“It is a challenge to us; it has encouraged us to move because we cannot just keep those things there; we don’t want to jeopardize their efforts. We will pool our resources through levy and voluntary donations; we need to put something on ground,” he said.

He, however, appealed to the state government to provide infrastructural facilities such as roads, water, schools and electricity for the development of the area.

Clerics advise Buhari on good governance

T

HE third session of the Second Synod of the Diocese of Idoani (Anglican Commun-

ion) held at the Cathedral Church of the Holy Trinity in Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State has ended. It called on President Muhammadu Buhari to meet the expectations of Nigerians.

The Diocesan Bishop, Rt Revd Bolarinde Dahunsi made the appeal while addressing the synod delegates, clerics and other dignitaries at the occasion hosted by Chief and Mrs Dapo Oshati.

According to the cleric, Nigerians are really yearning for positive change in every sphere of life notwithstanding the myriad of challenges before the President.

Bishop Dahunsi said: “Mr President should be mindful of the pluralistic nature of Nigeria and its secularity as preserved by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. He should also appreciate the need to eschew

From Damisi Ojo, Akure

favouritism based on religion or tribe.

In a communiqué jointly signed by the Bishop and Synod’s Secretary, Venerable S.O. Ojowuro, it commended the peaceful conduct of the 2015 general elections and praised the heroic role of ex-President Goodluck Jonathan in conceding defeat to his opponent.

The Synod enjoined President Buhari to appoint credible and worthy Nigerians into his cabinet and various political offices in order to deliver the dividends of democracy to Nigerians.

It urged Nigerians to be patient with President Buhari, while assuring him of continuous support and prayer for positive turnaround of the country under his watch.

On the anti-corruption crusade going on in the country, the Synod praised the President and sought the co-operation of all Nigerians.

•Bishop Dahunsi delivering a lecture during the Synod. With him is a cross section of other dignitaries, including the host, Chief and Mrs Oshati

It also appealed to President Buhari to ensure that the fight against corruption is carried out without prejudice.

The Synod decried the total neglect of the area in the distribution of necessary infrastructure such as good roads, potable water and steady power supply.

According to the communique,

the entire communities in Idoani Diocese have been put into total darkness since April, wondering whether the area is still part of Ondo State.

The synod delegates commended Chief Jacob Oshati,who is the Majekobaje of the Cathedral Church of the Holy Trinity, Idoani for being a pioneer host of the Synod in

the Diocese.

Meanwhile, the next council meeting of the Ondo Ecclestiastical Province will be hosted by Idoani Diocese between October 6 and 7.

The theme of the third session of the second Synod of the Diocese was “Godliness with Contentment.”

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

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SOUTHWEST REPORT Cancer has killed many Nigerians this year. In 2012, it killed a leading light and wife of the founder of MicCom Cables and Wires, Prince Tunde Ponnle, who has now started a foundation to rescue people from the scourge.

OLUKOREDE YISHAU writes that another feather will be added to the foundation’s cap as it takes delivery of a mammogram machine, which will change the face of managing the disease in Osun State and its environs.

MicCom Foundation: Another feather in its cap

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HE vision began with the death of a great woman, who, for decades, was an amazing partner to her husband.

They helped the poor, contributed to education and were active in church development.

But on October 29, 2012, death parted them. Olufunke, an engineer and Princess, left Tunde, also an engineer, to face the challenges of life alone. No thanks to endometrial cancer. Prince Tunde Ponnle, founder MicCom Cables and Wires and MicCom Gold and Resort, has had to live painfully in the last three years without a woman who contributed to making him what he is.

The good news, however, is that Mrs Ponnle’s death made her husband learn more about cancer. He has realised that cancer kills more people worldwide than malaria, HIV and AIDS and tuberculosis. He also discovered that when detected early, cancer could be cured. He equally discovered that the prevalence rate of cancer was on the increase among Nigerians.

Worse still, he realised that 10 people die from cancer every hour and yet only a few African countries were sufficiently funding cancer control programmes. It also became known to him that no fewer than 80,000 Nigerians die from various types of cancer annually and this may increase; given the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) projection that about 84 million people may die worldwide as a result of one form of cancer or the other this year.

These discoveries made Ponnle to consult with his children and the result is the MicCom Cancer Foundation (MCCF).

The Ibokun Road, Ada, Osun State-based foundation is out to help women fight breast cancer and also help men who may have prostate cancer. The foundation chose these two types of cancer because statistics show that they are the most prevalent among Nigerians.

Any moment from now, the foundation will take delivery of a mammogram machine. It was donated by a respected family physician, Dr. Doris Kyeremateng, who has also joined the board of MicCom Cancer Foundation.

Dr. Kyeremateng, a Canada-

•A mammograph machine

•The foundation’s secretariat

based Ghanaian, was, in 2006, installed as the President of t h e Manitoba College of Family Physicians.

As President, Dr. Kyeremateng represented the province of Manitoba on the proven exboard of the Colpertise in comThe lege of Family PhyPrince Ponnle munication, health Mrs sicians of Canada education, promotion and (CFPC).

She migrated to Canada in 1995 and programme management and execuhas been practising in Winnipeg. She tion.

There is also Dr. A.A Salako, who is owns and runs the Autumnwood Medical Centre in Windsor Park in an Associate Professor/Consultant Winnipeg. She obtained her Doctor of Urologist at the Obafemi Awolowo Medicine (MD) degree at the Univer- University, Ile-Ife. He is a urologist sity of Bergen, Norway in 1992 where with special interest in screening and she practised as a General Practitioner management of benign prostatic enuntil 1995, when she moved to largement and prostate cancers. He has also been involved in community surWinnipeg with her family.

She completed a two-year Family veys.

The centre also has the technical backMedicine residency programme at the ing of Dr. K.O Ajenifuja, a Senior LecUniversity of Manitoba in 2000.

The centre has solid professionals turer/Consultant Obstetrics ad either as technical experts or full-time Gynaecologist at the Obafemi members of staff. One of the technical Awolowo University, Ile-Ife. Dr experts behind it is Dr. A. Akinsola, a Ajenifuja has ample experience in comProfessor of Internal Medicine and munity screening and treatment of cerConsultant Nephrologist, Obafemi vical cancer. He has been part of a simiAwolowo University, Ile-Ife, who has lar programme in India.

Last but not the least is Dr O.A Esimai, broad-based skills and capacity in programme coordination and admin- an Associate Professor/Consultant Public Health Physician at Obafemi istration.

Also supporting the centre techni- Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, who cocally is Dr K.T. Ijadunola, who is an ordinates the Well Women Clinic Associate Professor/Consultant Pub- which provides awareness and screenlic Health Physician at the Obafemi ing services for breast and cervical canAwolowo University, Ile-Ife. He has cers.

The foundation runs a Cancer Preventive and Treatment Centre at its secretariat.

The centre focuses on providing screening, counselling services and other support for treatment of early stage of cancer. It has the capacity to late ensure adequate inforPoonle mation management that will enable academic institutions conduct research into these cancers.

“The data being generated will also be made available to the concerned government parastatals either for evaluation and/or research purpose.

The programme managers, assisted by an Assistant Programme Manager provide services.

“The foundation links up with secondary and tertiary health institutions in identified target communities in Nigeria (the OAUTHC Ile-Ife at inception) to facilitate access to management and quality care of patients with established lesions.

“There is a plan to support and invest in the capacity development of the institution. This will be in the form of equipment (laboratory, radiology) and capacity building in diagnosis and treatment and facilitation of treatment of early lesions through a cost-sharing strategy between stakeholders,” the centre said.

The foundation said it would continually mount advocacy and awareness campaign in Osun State, the

Lifeline for ex-inmate

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HE founder and General Overseer of Word and Spirit Assembly Church, Satellite Town, Lagos, Pastor Chris Ekeh has donated the sum of N200,000 to a female exinmate of Kirikiri Minimun Security Prison Apapa, Miss Jennifer Ngozi Mberekpe to enable her to begin life anew after serving out her jail term.

Miss Mberekpe was recently freed from the prison where she was incarcerated for over a year ago as a result of a case of fraud leveled against her.

She was freed 12 days after Pastor Ekeh visited the prison on July 17, this year to celebrate his 40th birthday with the inmates.

Pastor Ekeh had promised to render financial assistance to any inmate that would be released after his visit. Incidentally, her case was struck out by the trial judge.

At the church service, Pastor Ekeh presented a cheque of N200,000 to Miss Mberekpe in fulfilment of his promise.

While presenting the cheque, the pastor said: “This is my own little way of sowing into your life and also a fulfilment of the promise I made during my visit to both the Maximum and the Female Kirikiri prisons.”

Receiving the cheque, Miss Mberekpe thanked the cleric, saying that the gesture was a surprise to her.

“I am much overwhelmed by this singular gesture. I never expected it. It will surely help in giving me a new lease of life. I am very grateful to you, sir,” she said.

•Pastor Ekeh presenting the cheque to Miss Mberekpe

With respect to human capacity building, it will provide fellowship awards for short stay of experts to acquire skills for management of these three focal cancers in institutes with such expertise. We will also invest in training and building capacity of local experts to be able to manage these lesions in many medical centres all over Nigeria...MCCF shall invest in installation of equipment and production of materials that will enable our various partners at all levels to conduct health education in order to create awareness about cancer prevention neighbouring states and ultimately throughout the country.

“This will be done through various media–radio and television, print media and visits to community leaders.

This has commenced in earnest in the first month of the foundation’s operation through visits to traditional rulers of the six communities identified namely Ada, Ororuwo, Iragbiji, Aagba, Iree, and Eripa. The foundation has created awareness through media (radio and television) programmes in the

T was a day of joy for members of Rotary Club of Omole-Golden District 9110, Nigeria when the District Governor of Lagos and Ogun, Otunba Bolaji Onabadejo and his wife, Lady Sarah visited them.

At the entrance of Excellence Hotel in Ogba, Lagos was big flex both in and outside the hall to welcome the District Governor on his official visit to the club.

The Club President, Rotarian Idowu Afelogun said the gathering, aside the official visit of the District Governor, would also feature induction of new members, presentation of N50,000 to some recipients, presentation of equipment to the trainees and donation of incubator to Ifako-Ijaye General Hospital.

In his speech, Otunba Badejo thanked members of the club for their care for him, even as he congratulated them on being punctual anytime he visits the club.

He described the club as the overall best of the clubs, noting that he’s coming was to ensure that their set goals of establishing new club members and inviting more members which is the major role to receive more trophies are achieved.

He told the club to reach out to students by given them scholarships.

The ex-President of the club, Mr Abiodun Oshinibosi said the new members are Chief Executive Officer of Golden Insurance Scheme; Mr Olutayo Gbolahan; sponsored by Mrs Titi Sunmonu; a business woman, Helen Mike-Sakpere, sponsored by the Club’s president,

form of jingles and lectures on “the cancers and their prevention” on the radio.

Other advocacy will include sourcing for increased national, regional and international investment in the prevention and management of breast, cervical and prostate cancers in Nigeria,” the centre said.

It is also taking serious partnership with hospitals, development partners and government parastatals. In the area of capacity building, the centre is focusing on human, infrastructural and institutional capacity building.

“With respect to human capacity building, it will provide fellowship awards for short stay of experts to acquire skills for management of these three focal cancers in institutes with such expertise. We will also invest in training and building capacity of local experts to be able to manage these lesions in many medical centres all over Nigeria.

“With respect to infrastructural and institutional capacity building, MCCF shall invest in installation of equipment and production of materials that will enable our various partners at all levels to conduct health education in order to create awareness about cancer prevention, screen and ensure early diagnosis of cancer and effectively manage all referred cases,” it said.

But how will the centre be sustained?

It explains: “MCCF is planned to be an ongoing concern. It will therefore strongly invest in partnership and institution capacity building. Also it shall create an environment that can support continued research and academic affiliation that will enable the foundation continue to generate the needed evidence for policy development and review for cancer prevention and management in the country. It shall start small, but evolve to be a major cancer centre in the future.”

The foundation also encourages volunteerism among health care providers locally, nationally and in the Diaspora. It will campaign against predisposing lifestyle practices that have been linked to cancer such as smoking, excessive alcohol intake, exposure to carcinogenic product, multiple sexual partners, early exposure to sex and unprotected sexual intercourse. It will also champion the need for regular medical check-ups, monthly self-breast examination, need for healthy diet, regular exercise and prevention of obesity.

The screening services available at the centre include histopathology of pap smears, mammography, ultrasonographic examinations, breast biopsy, PSA determination, digital rectal examination and clinical breast examination.

•A cross section of women at the programme

Free cancer screening for women

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OTHERED about the increasing rate at which women suffer from cervical cancer ailment, a member of the National Youths Service Corps serving at Oyo-East Local Government Area of Oyo State, Dr. Ohize Stephen Ogirima has organised community sensitisation, free screening and treatment for women in the area.

He also organised capacity building training for local government health workers on early detection and treatment of the ailment.

Another issue that he feels concerned about is that there is little or no awareness on the part of women on the need to go for regular screening for early detection of the disease.

They, most often, wait for symptoms of the disease to manifest before seeing a doctor.

Dr. Ogirima, with NYSC batch number OY/14C/1776, said he is determined to save women from the dreaded terminal disease.

Under the community development project known as NYSC Vanguard, Dr. Ogirima, with the support of some of his colleagues, started a sensitisation programme for residents in the four local government areas; namelyAfijio, Atiba, Oyo-East and Oyo-West that make up Oyo metropolis.

Thereafter, he established two screening centres at the Primary Health Centre, Araromi and the Ajayi Crowther University, both in Oyo town.

At the centres, about 500 women benefitted from the threeday free cervical cancer screening outreach. Medical experts from the Planned Parenthood Federation of

•Medical personnel attending to a woman

symptoms of cervical cancer include abnormal vaginal bleeding, bleeding Nigeria (PPFN) and the Gynaecology that occurs between regular menstrual periods, bleedand Oncology units of the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife Osun ing after sexual intercourse, douching as well as heavier-than-usual State were part of the team.

The State Hospital and the Ajayi menstrual periods that last longer.

Others, according to him, include Crowther University had agreed to bleeding after menopause, inwork with the PPFN to ensure conticreased vaginal disnuity. They also accepted to charge, pelvic pain adopt the revolving fund and pain during scheme system for the lowsexual intercost cervical cancer screencourse. ing units to be estab“Cervical lished. There was also an screening is a agreement on way of diagtraining of seven health nosing the disworkers from some of ease at an early the health facilities in pre-cancerous the ancient town. stage and preWhile each of the two venting the ailinstitutions has provided ment from detwo members of staff for veloping. training on visual inspecThe essence of tion methods and preparaDr. Ogirima screening tests is to tion of a Pap Smear Slide, the identify pre-cancerous Oyo-East Local Government Area changes in the cells of the cerhas given approval for the use of the Primary Health Centre at Araromi vix that could develop into cancer.

“The tests can also diagnose the disfor outreach and staff training ease by identifying cancer cells that programme.

In a chat with Southwest Report, Dr. are already present. If the abnormal Ogirima revealed that some of the tissue or cells can be removed, then From Bode Durojaiye, Oyo.

the disease can be prevented from progressing further into cancer.

“With successful screening of cervical cancer in the past several decades, the number of women diagnosed each year of the disease is declining,” he said.

Dr Ogirima further explained that while organised and qualityassured cytology-based screening programmes have substantially reduced incidence of cervical cancer in many developed countries, successfully organised populationbased cancer screening programmes are yet to be implemented in developing countries, including Nigeria. This, he said, is despite having the greater burden of the terminal disease.

On why cases of cervical cancer are on the increase, he noted that limited human and financial resources, competing health needs, poorly developed health care services, uninformed and disempowered female population, widespread poverty and the cumbersome nature of the prevailing cytology-based screening programmes are some of the reasons why the ailment is prevalent.

Proffering solutions to the problem, Dr. Ogirima advocated a realistic approach to screening of the ailment in line with the recommendation of the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).

He said: “Dealing with bureaucratic bottlenecks, supply of quality-assured consumables, nonavailability of call and recall system as well as poor statistics on screening coverage will reduce the prevalence of the disease.

“With appropriate planning and implementation, an organised and quality-assured screening service is possible even in a low-resource setting.”

Continuing, he said cervical cancer is one of the most common types of cancer of the female reproductive system.

It is a disease in which cells of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus and the adjoining vagina become cancerous or malignant.

It is usually a slow-growing kind of cancer that may not present initial symptoms, but can be detected with regular screening by Pap tests (a procedure in which cells are scraped from the cervix and viewed under a microscope) and detection of Human Papillioma Virus (HPV).

Most cervical cancers are linked to infection by HPV. Approximately 80 per cent of cervical cancers are squamous cell carcinomas, which arise from cells in the exocervix (the outer portion of cervix), while about 15 per cent are adenocarcinomas, which arise from a different type of cell in the endocervix (the inner portion of cervix).

Hospital gets new incubator

By Kehinde Onifade

Idowu Afelogun; Assistant Editor, The Nation Newspaper, Mr Adeyinka Aderibigbe, sponsored by Rotarian Ganiu Lawal; a business woman and an actress, Miss Oluwabunmi Oladele; Gospel Singer, Mrs Dunni Olanrewaju (aka Opelope anointing) was also sponsored by the past President Mr Kayode Owolabi.

The District Governor welcomed the new members to the club, recalling that Rotary Club was established in 1905. Then, he said, membership comprised all men, but now women are becoming members.

He invited his wife Lady Sarah, to join him in decorating the new members with the tag labels of the rotary names and also present a file tagged Rotary Club kit to the inducted members.

Other highlights of the event were presentation of N50,000 to four recipients; another set of people who were trained in hairdressing by the rotary club through Mr Olajide Inumidun (aka ZIG) were presented with hairdressing equipment to enable them to start their own businesses.

Dr Bakare Omowunmi, in her speech on polio vaccine said government had sent them on errand to children to make them good, healthy and brilliant. She presented a

gift to Lady Sarah on behalf of the polio team.

A little girl, Pamilerin Akamo was also decorated as an intending member of Rotary Club for polio eradication.

Despite the downpour, the members, ex-president and the District Governor moved to Ifako-Ijaye General Hospital to donate an incubator to the X-ray department.

Dr Adebayo Bamisebi, who represented the Chief Medical Director of the hospital, received members of the club.

The President, Omole-Golden rotary club, Mr Idowu Afelogun said: “Our responsibility is to ensure that the hospital becomes the best among other hospitals in the area. We promise that by next year, another incubator will be donated to the hospital so that more lives would be saved. The incubator was the fifth the club had donated to the hospital.

“Omole-Golden Club as the best in the world currently. The primary area of focus of the club is maternal and child health care. That is why we donated the incubator to the hospital.”

Receiving the incubator on behalf of the Chief Medical Director, Dr Bamisebi thanked the club for the gesture, assuring them that the equipment will be well •From left: Onabadejo, Charter President, Rotary Club of Omole-Golden, Mr maintained for the use of the children.

Oluwarotimi Adeleye (second left), Mr Afelogun (right) and other guests at event

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SOUTHWEST REPORT

Ogun tackles filth

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ONSCIOUS of the maxim that cleanliness is next to Godliness, Ogun State Governor, Ibikunle Amosun has expressed his resolve to ensure clean environment. This will be achieved by ridding all parts of the state of filth. He also said proper sanitation would reduce the spate of diseases among the people.

He noted that his administration has zero-tolerance for poor hygiene and violation of environmental laws.

He spoke when he and his deputy, Mrs. Yetunde Onanuga led a team comprising officials from the State Ministry of Environment to monitor the level of compliance of sanitation laws in some markets penultimate week. Some markets with filthy environments were closed down.

Responding to critics’ insinuations that closure of the markets will cripple business activities as well as affect the state’s economy, Governor Amosun said closure of such markets that did not meet the required environmental standard was never intended to cripple business activities in the markets. He rather explained that the state could no longer condone the filthy situation the society is fast relapsing to.

He added that businesses flourish better in a clean and serene environment.

While closing some shops at Ewekoro/Ifo/Ado-Odo in Ota Local Government Area, the Deputy Governor Mrs. Onanuga said environmental sanitation laws were made in good faith to ensure cleanliness and healthy living.

She noted that a healthy person is a wealthy, saying that government would continue its enlightenment campaign as well as enforcing environmental sanitation laws until voluntary compliance permeates the nook and cranny of the state.

•Amosun sensitising residents of Papa Town in Ewekoro Local Government Area to dangers of illegal disposal of garbage i n drainage. With him is his deputy, Mrs Onanuga

By Olalekan Ayeni

The closed markets and shops would be re-opened as soon as compliance with the sanitation laws was established.

Also the Iyaloja of Oke-Aje Market in Ijebu-Ode, Alhaja Wuraola Kuforiji, appreciated state government’s concern about the well-being of traders, promising to cooperate with government by ensuring total compliance with environmental laws.

Monday Cletus, a shop owner at Ota Market in Ado-Odo Ota Local Government Area, commended government for maintaining healthy environment. He described the move as welcome development.

In order to sustain the level of environmental cleanliness, a new management system was established by the government in all urban areas. The

‘Environmental sanitation laws were made in good faith to ensure cleanliness and healthy living. A healthy person is wealthy...Government would continue its enlightenment campaign as well as enforcing environmental sanitation laws until voluntary compliance permeates the nook and cranny of the state. The closed markets and shops would be re-opened as soon as compliance with the sanitation laws was established’ system is to be driven by public-private partnership. To this end, five hook loader trucks as well as waste compactors were procured by the government to enhance evacuation of waste.

The Director of Environmental Conservation and Resources Management at the Ministry of Environment,

Mr. Kunle Oshota, said: “Various campaigns against indiscriminate dumping of waste in drainage and waterways; coupled with other activities of the ministry and that of the State Environmental Protection Agency (OGEPA) are already yielding positive results as the level of compliance

New president for Rotary

Police chief warns criminals

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HE Rotary Club of Gbagada has sworn in its new President, Otunba Olusola Adenuga-Taiwo, a retired banker and lawyer.

The event was historical in many ways–the celebrator’s father; the late Sir Gabriel Osiola Adenuga-Taiwo was a founding member and later President of Rotary Club while his mother Chief (Mrs) Arinola AdenugaTaiwo, who attended the event, was a District Chairman, Inner Wheel of the old District 911.

Adenuga-Taiwo recalled that Rotary was formed in his presence, though he did not join it then.

Besides, a Saturday before the event, the new President celebrated his 64th birthday.

White and green were the colours of the ceremony, which held at the Events Centre, near Afrika Shrine, Ikeja. While the men wore Agbada, which they topped with green caps, the women put on white buba (native wrapper) and crowned it with green head gears. But the President looked gorgeously different as he wore a multi-coloured asooke and a pair of glasses.

Chairman on the occasion, Dr Michael Olawale-Cole, who spoke on the vanity of man, noted the futility of life, saying the best legacy one can leave behind on earth is to serve God and humanity, adding that Rotary provides the platform for this service. He warned, quoting from the Bible, that no one takes anything from this world.

He, therefore, enjoined all to

by residents has been raised.

“Recall that dump sites such as those at Saje Abeokuta, Ikoto in IjebuOde, Oke Diya in Sagamu and Korata in Ota were upgraded during the first term of Senator Amosun-led administration to discourage illegal dumping of refuse while an additional one was created at Siun in Obafemi Owode Local Government Area.

“There are strong indications that when the current administration will be rounding off its second tenure in office, Ogun State will stand out as one of the cleanest states in the country. It will also have the least prevalence of communicable diseases.

More so, with the ongoing infrastructural development coupled with beautification of roads, medians and roundabouts which were dumping sites, the state will be a safe haven for citizens and investors alike.”

From Damisi Ojo, Akure

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•Prof. Taiwo (left) congratulates Otunba Adekunle-Taiwo after the installation. With them are Mrs AdekunleTaiwo (right) and other former presidents of the club.

By Joseph Eshanokpe

serve God with their possessions, saying that “this is what Rotary says is to share and give’’. He also quoted from the Koran to buttress his point.

Olawale-Cole, a former District Governor of Rotary, advised his colleagues “to be active and committed to Rotary. There is a great joy to be part of service, the challenges of the times, notwithstanding’’.

Rotary’s District 9110 Governor Otunba Bolaji Onabadejo also harped on service, saying it was ordained by God. “Some defined serve as the rent you pay in life. It is putting everything you have at the service of people–talent and money, among

other things. We are supposed to do serve. Since 1905, Rotary has been wiping some tears and eradicating diseases. Since 1985, Rotary has been fighting polio,’’ he said.

He enjoined others to join the club and come “let us do service’’. He described the new President as world-class and, therefore, capable.

The outgoing President, Prof.

Kayode Taiwo gave its team an excellent mark in performance. He listed these as the chartering of new clubs, induction of new members and renovation of the science laboratory of a school in Ago Iwoye in Ogun State. He canvassed support for his successor.

Adenuga-Taiwo, whose wife

Olufunke attended the event, promised to execute the following projects–renovation of the Ajeroju Primary School in Oworonsoki, Lagos; continuation of its scholarship scheme in SOS Village, Isolo, Lagos; maternal and child care, water and sanitation scheme in Ibipe Community Health Centre at Ago Iwoye, poverty alleviation, microcredit scheme and Rotary Foundation. He later raised funds for the programmes.

At the event, Commissioner of Police, Airport Police Command, Mr Federick Taiwo Lakanu; Chief Charles Ike Uwechie and Sir Abuiodun Ogunkoya, retired management consultant, were honoured.

NDO State Commissioner of Police, Mr Mike Ogbodu has warned criminals to leave the state because there is no hiding place for them.

Addressing reporters at the command’s headquarters in Akure, the Ondo State capital shortly after assuming duty, the new police chief urged members of the public to join hands with the police in the fight against crime. The former Commissioner of Police, Isaac Eke, has been transferred to the Force headquarters, Abuja.

Ogbodu expressed his determination to fight crime in all parts of the state, even as he cautioned his men not to indulge in criminal acts.

According to him, he was in the state with the aim of projecting the vision of the Inspector-General of Police, Mr Solomon Arase, assuring that community policing would be given a priority henceforth. He called for the people’s support in the fight against crime.

He assured that the state would be peaceful throughout his tenure, adding that the state police command would not tolerate indiscipline among police officers.

Ogbodu also advised residents to report all criminal activities and suspected criminals to the police for proper investigation and actions.

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SOUTHWEST REPORT Alumni build classrooms for school

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HE Alumni Association of the College of Education, IkereEkiti has contributed to the infrastructural development of their alma mater by building a block of classrooms.

The association, in a statement by its National President, Deji Abioye, and Public Relations Officer, Bayo Oguntuase, said the funds with which the project was financed was sourced from its internally-generated revenue.

It also said the project was embarked upon to ease students’ accommodation problems and to reduce over-population in the hitherto •The pupils performing on stage

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From Tayo Johnson, Ibadan

He also described the trainees as ‘excellent’, adding that students have been groomed and given education that is sustainable and attractive.

According to him, the children have learnt how to make tie, bags, shoes, beads, soaps, lamp holders and games, among others.

In addition, there was a leadership workshop for participants who also displayed their wares before their parents and teachers after the exercise.

“They have been trained on how to be computer literate, how to operate a camera and video camera.

No fewer than 45 students applied for this programme but 35 were accommodated due to one challenge or the other. This is more or less like a summer school to keep student busy during their holiday,ý” he said. ýFolorunsho advised the participants to practise the skills they learnt, even as he urged them to take their education seriously.

•Alhaji Alebiosu (fourth right) and members of staff of Eko Electric

Reward for their safety exploits NDIVIDUALS and organisations whose activities increased awareness about health, safety and environment (HSE) have been rewarded with plaques and certificates of excellence. It was at the maiden Nigerian Safety Award organised by Safety Record magazine held at the Oriental Hotels Lagos.

The aim of the award was to increase safety awareness among the citizens and at work places.

Industry professionals from local and multinational companies witnessed the event, where HSE practitioners and companies were honoured for initiating strategic actions and policies to prevent workplace accidents and occupational hazards.

The event began with a red-carpet session, where health and safety professionals interacted with the media on their activities in the past years.

Later, members of panel of judges, who are HSE experts from various professional bodies, including Nigerian Institute of Safety Professionals (ISPON) and Society of Occupational and Environmental Health Physicians of Nigeria (SOEHPON), among others, arrived.

Each of the judges has more than 20 years of experience in health, safety and environment.

The chairman of the judges’ panel, Dr. Bamisayo Olagbemi, said the award came at a time statutory framework was needed to revive safety culture in the country. Recognising efforts made by safety practitioners to reduce hazards in work places and public spaces, he said, would encourage more individual actions and organisational co-operation.

“There is power in recognition and

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•Mrs Nwosu and Badmos displaying their plaques

By Wale Ajetunmobi

compensation. If efforts of people and companies are being recognised and rewarded as it is being done today, such gesture will encourage them to initiate more actions to change the thinking of people and bring culture of safety to their consciousness,” he said.

Olagbemi, a public health and industrial hygiene expert, described the entries submitted by companies and the safety practitioners as impressive, noting that awareness about safety in industries could improve steadily if companies’ managements were rewarded for their support and co-operation.

The publisher of Safety Record, Alhaji Lateef Alebiosu, said the award would sustain the successes recorded and raise safety awareness among workers,

with the aim of ensuring accidentfree society. The honour would not only strengthen companies’ safety policies, Alebiosu said, it would also encourage actions that would enhance public safety and reduce the rate of occupational accidents recorded yearly.

He said increased awareness about safety and occupational hazards had caused government and companies’ managements to introduce drastic regulations to reduce rate of accidents in public space and industries.

He said: “Safety awareness has picked up in the country in period, compared with what we used to have some 20 years back. We still want to push up the level of awareness to ensure that everybody, including school children, housewives, market women, drivers, industry professionals and the road users, is conscious of the need to maintain safety in all endeavours.”

Highpoint of the event was presentation of awards, during which individuals and several organisations were adjudged to be the best in different fields.

Oando Nigeria Plc won the Best Practice in Oil and Gas (Upstream) Award, Exxon Mobil was adjudged the best in downstream sector, while Ikeja Electric won the award for the Best HSE Practice in Power Sector.

Also, Mr Jamiu Badmos and Mrs Monica Nwosu won the awards for Health and Safety Champion. Many others, including organisations, were given commendation awards.

Badmos described the award as a reward for his professionalism, saying the feat would challenge him to do more to ensure safety in public arena and work places.

available classrooms.

The body said the newly-completed block of classrooms would be handed over to the management of the college today.

The alumni stressed that it is noteworthy that the accomplishment it has recorded was made possible through prudent expenditure of the funds raised by the association.

It expressed its determination to always co-operate with the management of the college to assist in its growth.

APC chieftain donates food items to Muslims

NGO trains pupils on skills DUCARE Trust Youth Centre, Samonda, Ibadan, Oyo State capital has trained 35 school pupils on different skills ýto mark this year’s convention on the rights of the child.

The programme, tagged “2015 Holischool” began on August 5 and ended on September 12.

The Coordinator of the programme, Mr Moshood Folorunsho described the training as the best way to keep the children off the street during the holiday.

From Odunayo Ogunmola, Ado-Ekiti

From Leke Akeredolu, Akure

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MEMBER of the All Progressives Congress (APC)’s Board of Trustees (BOT), Alhaji Jamiu Ekungba has donated rams and bags of rice worth millions of Naira to Muslim members in the 18 local government areas of Ondo State.

He said the gesture was to help Muslim families to have fruitful celebration during the just-concluded Eid-el Adha festival.

Ekungba said the gesture was a way of giving back to the society which he said he has benefited from.

The BOT member, who is also a governorship aspirant of the party, however, assured residents of bright future.

Ekungba stated that there was no hiding place for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) government in Ondo State as all its antics and persuasive strategies are now known to the people.

He said the Labour Party-turned PDP can no longer deceive the people in next year’s governorship election.

The APC chieftain also said the future of Nigeria is now secure under the present APC-administration.

He said: “Every Nigerian that is reasonable, that loves the country has seen the direction we are going under APC than the PDP.” He noted that indigenes of Ondo State have no option than to look for a party that will restructure and rebuild the state for development to thrive.

Ekungba, who said the APC remains the only party that could salvage the people from the purposeless government of the PDP, urged the APC to ensure that it does not only present a credible candidate but also a candidate that understands the economy of the state.

He lamented that the state has no reason to be bankrupt, saying an oilproducing state such as Ondo should be financially buoyant.

“The chances of the APC in the coming election are very bright; we thank God that he has made it obvious to everybody that Labour Party-turned PDP government has nowhere to hide again.

“Every antics and strategies of cajoling our people have become clear to everybody. Nobody can be deceived again in Ondo State.

“That is why we are urging the APC to ensure that it does not just present a very credible candidate, but must also have a candidate that understands the economy of the state.

“It is unimaginable that the state is bankrupt; an oil-producing state cannot pay salary. So, we must present somebody who understands the economy and who will be able to restore its glory,” Ekungba said.

•Some of the items donated

Ijebu Today makes its debut From Sikiru Akinola, Ibadan

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N order to contribute his quota to the development of his town, Olaleye Kayode, a graduate of International ýRelations of the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, has begun a grassroots publication known as Ijebu Today.

According to Kayode, the publication of the magazine was borne out of the need to report the under-reported areas of Ijebu area of Ogun State. He said that Ijebu comprises nine local government areas in the state which is the highest.

He also said his long researches about Ijebu and long discussion with one of his mentors, Prof. Yinka Adesina, brought about the idea to begin the publication. He added that it was not solely ýfor financial gain.

Kayode stated that the emergence of Muhammadu Buhari as the President of Nigeria has made many graduates to have a rethink about their careers and to make useful choices.

The establishment of the magazine, which he said will be published monthly and later weeklyý, will also generate employment for not less than 20 people.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

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SOUTHWEST REPORT Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, was regarded as the dirtiest city in Nigeria. But three years after Governor Abiola Ajimobi assumed office in 2011, the situation changed. It has become one of the cleanest. OSEHEYE OKWUOFU, who went round the city, reports that the situation may relapse if the government ignores the return of filth and street trading.

Ibadan: Looming relapse to filth, street trading?

W HEN Oyo State Governor Abiola Ajimobi began the implementation of his beautification programme aimed at repositioning Ibadan city, many praised the initiative, even though it was stiffly opposed.

The Governor, in his determination to clear the city of dirt, moved against street traders, hawkers and shop owners who erected their shops under high tension electric cables, those on water channels and owners of other illegal structures.

The programme was not only resisted by members of the opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), but also some members within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

In spite of all this, the governor was unrelenting in his resolve to make the city of Ibadan a reference point in terms of cleanliness.

Almost every part of the city was taken over by mountain-like malodorous garbage dumps, while wares displayed by traders struggle for space with moving vehicles and stinking drainage systems were everywhere.

At the Iwo Road Bridge, traders often compete for space with motorists on the expressway. That was the lot of Ibadan city before Governor Ajimobi-led administration assumed office. It took the unflinching commitment of the governor to clear the mess which has accumulated over the years.

Surprisingly, it is still a puzzle to many how this great achievement recorded by Governor Ajimobi on the beautification of the city within a very short period suddenly relapsed.

Currently, it is common sight in major areas of the city to see hawkers and street traders selling and buying on the roads with little or no qualms.

At Challenge, Molete, Mokola, Dugbe, Sango, Iwo Road Bridge and some other areas of Ibadan, it is hard to believe how people evaded the roads to display their wares.

One of the traders, Mrs Olaitan Agboluaje who spoke with this reporter acknowledged the effort of the state governor but complained of the approach used in handling

•Traders displeying their wares on the roadside

the implementation of the beautification programme.

He also decried the issue of inadequate shops provided for traders by the government who forcibly drove the traders away from the streets.

If the shops were enough, Mrs Agboluaje stated, traders will have no reason to display their wares on the roads.

“We know the governor built shops at Molete Scout Camp, New Garage, Gbagi and some other places, but tell me how many traders were really accommodated in these markets. Don’t forget the fact that there are thousands of displaced traders in different parts of the city.

For instance, out of the long list of traders displaced from Iwo road, Idi-Ape, Gate and many other areas, how many traders will be accommodated at the market built at Gbagi?

“In fact, at Mokola Round-about down to Sango and Agbowo area of Ibadan, there are thousands of traders in this stretch, yet there is no single market built to absorb these traders. So, you can see where the problem lies. Unless the government is truly sincere in addressing this problem, I don’t think it will bring any desirable effect in the long-term,” he said.

A civil servant who spoke in confidence identified lack of organisation and planning as some of the major problems of the city.

Our source pointed out that members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW)

‘We know the governor built shops at Molete Scout Camp, New Garage, Gbagi and some other places, but tell me how many traders were really accommodated in these markets. Don’t forget the fact that there are thousands of displaced traders in different parts of the city...Currently, we are embarking on massive education, because if you don’t do mass education, they will not realise that all that we have been saying is in the people’s interest...They will think that you are trying to deny them their means of livelihood and movement’ worsen the situation with indiscriminate parking and careless driving on the road, congestion of major roads due to absence of government agents to enforce existing traffic rules.

He said: “Most cities that are well planned with effective laws will not tolerate reckless driving, street trading, poor sewage disposal and indiscriminate parking of vehicles. In Ibadan, bus and taxi drivers will park even on the middle of the roads to pick or drop passengers because he knows there is nobody to sanction him. The annoying aspect is the attitudes of drivers of the government mass transit buses called Ajumose bus.

“They have no bus stops; they park on the middle of the roads with all impunity without minding the fact that there are other road users.

Ibadan is a cosmopolitan city and it makes no sense that things are going worse in this present day Nige-

ria when most cities in the country are far advancing.”

The people, however, appreciate the weekly sanitation exercise which is still much effective. In most areas, environmental and health officers ensure that gutters and surroundings are clean. The impact of the exercise would have been more felt if street sweepers are engaged to sweep dirt scattered all over the streets by residents during the weekly sanitation exercise.

Southwest Report gathered that majority of the street sweepers and the Youth Empowerment Scheme (YES O) officers engaged by the government have left as government could no longer afford to keep them on its payroll due to dwindling state resources.

This has further worsened the problems of filth, street trading and indiscriminate parking in the city because there are not enough government agents to enforce its laws

Honour for a philanthropist

F

OR her outstanding commitment to voluntary fundraising for various causes that touch lives of people, Rev. Sophie Mbanisi, founder of Healing Hearts Foundation, has been honoured with an Award of Excellence by the Voice of Change Network.

The Lagos-based humanitarian organisation, nominated Rev. Mbanisi, a philanthropist because of her incredible dedication to humanitarian cause. Not only does she play a significant role in gathering support for the plight of widows, she is also, through her foundation, committed to alleviating poverty, illiteracy and helping the poor have access to basic necessities of life.

On receiving her award, the Oraukwu, Anambra State-born mother of seven, thanked the organisers for the award and her foundation team for their dedication to service to people.

“To be in a room filled with so many individuals giving their time, talent and energy

to the well-being of the poor was inspiration to me. I was stunned by comments by all who spoke and the convener, Mr Gregory Azemobor. They are words of encouragement which have challenged each one of us to keep doing what we love to do...give back to the society.

“I also would like to thank members of staff of Healing Hearts Foundation and volunteers for all they have done for the foundation. Without them our projects wouldn’t have seen the light of day. I commend their selfless service to humanity and I am grateful to them,” Mbanisi said.

She also urged the society to be more active in their social responsibilities and listed funding as one of the biggest challenges she faces as a humanitarian.

“Our major challenge is financing. Every day, needs arise and the needs do not ask if there are sufficient funds. Privileged members of the society have to do more in catering for the needs of the poor. We should not wait for the government,” she said.

•Mrs Nbanisi (middle) holding her award

on beautification programme.

Speaking on the issue, former Secretary to the State Government (SSG) and one of the aides of the governor, Mr Ismail Ali said the government has decided to apply massive education and enlightenment rather than the use of force to let the people see the need for keeping the city clean.

He said: “Currently, we are embarking on massive education, because if you don’t do mass education, they will not realise that all that we have been saying is in the people’s interest.

“They will think that you are trying to deny them their means of livelihood and movement, which is not true. What is more essential is to let them know that it is in their own interest. Although we are talking about beautification and all that, out of our peace, safety and security programmes, we are talking about really how to take people off where the risk is. So, what we are trying to make them realise is that the approach is subtle; we are not doing much of enforcement; we are doing much of persuasion and make people realise that they need to key into our vision.

“So, we will continue along that line; telling people why they shouldn’t be where they are, having given them alternatives. We are providing alternatives sufficient enough for them to earn their living. So, there is no reason why they should be found on the roads.”

33

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

THE NATION

BUSINESS PENSION

‘Fed Govt yet to remit N100b retirees’ accrued rights, others’ T

T

HE Federal Government is yet to remit about N100billlion representing retirees accrued pension rights and employees’ outstanding contributions under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), the Chairman, Pension Fund Operators Association of Nigeria (PenOp), Misbau Yola, has said.

Yola, who made this known while speaking to journalists in Abuja, said the last payment on accrued rights was made in February, this year.

Pension accrued rights represent the total sum of employees’ pension benefits before the commencement of the new Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS).

The PenOp chairman, however, noted that despite the fiscal challenges, the Federal Government is trying its best as it has remitted contributions up to July, this year.

He pointed out that it is important that all outstanding payments are paid to avoid erosion of confidence in the CPS. He said: “The fiscal challenge being encountered by the Federal Government has affected its pension contribution and remittances “The Federal government is trying, as it has paid its remittances of contributions on its employees up

• Yola Stories by Omobola Tolu-Kusimo

to July, 2015. There are few challenges with the accrued rights, but we have been told that it would be paid soon. The last payment was made in February, 2015. These are issues that affect the confidence in the system.

“We are aware that the Executive members of the National Pension Commission (PenCom) visited President Muhammadu Buhari and

raised the issue of the accrued rights, and the President promised the accrued rights would be paid soon. The accrued rights and outstanding contribution rights is about N100 billion.”

Speaking on compliance level of CPS by State Governments, he said Lagos State and perhaps Delta State are the only state that is up to date.

He said others are at different levels of compliances.

“The states are in various stages.

We have various states and they have different needs and challenges.

The Federal Government has complied the most and we can only encourage the states to also join the CPS. “Even in the PRA 2014, there is a mention of states; the reality is that Federal Government does not make laws on pension matters for states. The states have rights to do their pension he way they want so we have to continuously engage them based on moral suasion for them to join. The states don’t have the resources the FG has and fiscal discipline is different.

“With the fiscal revenue challenges the states are having, it is not clear when the states will come out of the challenge. The states have revenue challenges and the Federal Government has more revenue streams,” he said.

Window for CPS retirees to change their PFA coming

W

ORKERS and retirees under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) who desire to change their Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs) may soon be able to do so.

This was made known in a report obtained by The Nation from the National Pension Commission (PenCom).

According to the report, the PenCom has identified the major challenge hindering the opening of the transfer window which is meant to allow workers and retirees transfer their account from one PFA to another.

Section 13 of the Pension Reform Act, 2014, provides that, “Subject to the Guidelines issued by the Commission, a holder of a Retirement Savings Account (RSA) maintained under this Act, may not more than

once a year, transfer his account from one Pension Fund Administrator to another.”

The report said in line with the provisions of the Act, the Commission has already released the regulations for the transfer of RSA to pension operators and also exposed same on its website.

The Commission explained that a major challenge hindering the opening of the transfer window is the issue of RSA holders registering more than once through their PFAs on the Commission’s database.

For effective take off of the transfer window, the Commission said it is putting in place infrastructure and modalities that would enable the cleaning up of the existing registration database to eliminate multiple registration thereby fa-

ILAN committee reviews exam suspension by CIIN

HE Institute of Loss Adjuster of Nigeria (ILAN) has set up a five man Ad-Hoc Committee to review the suspension of its examination by the Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria (CIlN).

ILAN immediate past president, Chief Lebi Omoboyowa made this known at the institute’s Annual general meeting held in Lagos.

Omoboyowa said the institute is witnessing turbulent times in this area of its activities in recent months.

He said: “On 22nd December, 2014, a letter suspending ILAN from conducting its examination was received from CIlN relying on the section of their charter which makes them the only body to provide insurance education in Nigeria.

“Various approaches have been adopted by the Committee and the Council to resolve the issue. The matter has been taken to Insurance Industry Consultative Council (IlCC) for their intervention.

“CIlN, however, wrote ILAN asking us to make input into their ongoing syllabus review. The current position is that they have requested for our syllabus as they intend creating a more all-embracing examination syllabus whereby those candidates who wish to go into loss adjusting will choose those subjects that are relevant to this field of practice.”

He said the Council is already working hard to present a position paper and input into CIlN examination syllabus in such a way that the interest of ILAN as a member of the International Federation of Adjusting Associations is not jeopardised.

He appealed to the institute’s students who are writing or intend to write our examination to bear with ILAN as these policy issues would

be resolved shortly.

Speaking on the request of increase in the institute’s scale of fees by underwriters, the president said it had become clear that the umbrella body of the underwriters, the Nigeria Insurers Association (NIA) would not review its fees.

“Despite our unrelenting efforts in trying to get the NIA meet with us and carry out a long overdue review of our Scale of fees, it is clear that the NIA are not willing to carry out a review.

“It was in this light that suggestions were made during one of our CEO meetings that we adjusters need to seriously consider alternative sources of income; the most acceptable suggestion being that we increase the scope of our services to include Loss Assessors, thereby offering our skills to the insuring public, may be through an alternative registered company in that regard.”

He further said the institute’s quest for a Charter has for some time been put on hold. This was due to the political situation in the co u n t r y a n d t h e d e c i s i o n b y your Council not to risk their funds on an exercise with a very uncertain outcome.

He said now that a new legislative session has come in, the incoming Council may wish to continue from where we stopped. It must be stated that we are facing a lot of chall e n g e s w i t h i n t h e industry on this.

“This notwithstanding, it is the opinion of your Council that nothing in the current legislation prevents us from seeking a Charter. It is a constitutional right and to succeed we need to have the committed support of all our members,” he noted.

How to invest pension funds

W •PenCom DG, Chinelo Anohu-Amazu

cilitating the opening of the transfer window.

The Commission however implored all stakeholders to exercise patience as the window would be opened in due course.

• From left: Brand Manager, Brian Munro Limited, Mrs. NkechiyereNwachukwu, General Manager, Mr Shola Ajayi, winner of Prado Jeep star prize, Mr. Isaac Udeh, and National Sales Manager, Mr Paul Omekwe at Brian Munro Glucose D distributors' award in Lagos.

HAT is a pension? Put simply, a pension is a vehicle to provide deferred compensation to employees and usually their partners in retirement. Properly managed, a pension must cover its liabilities as these become payable.

Nevertheless, many pension plans today invest their assets independently of the promises or liabilities created. A recent study showed that US pensions still invest close to 60% of their assets in equities, almost 25% in bonds (down from prior periods), and the rest in cash/other.

This can create an asset-liability mismatch, meaning that retiree benefits may not be payable if the stock market takes a tumble and stays down for years or during periods that liabilities/promises fall due.

There may be lessons to be learned from endowments and sovereign wealth funds (SWFs). Most critically, the “better-managed” among these institutions tend to incorporate both a liability and a funding analysis in their investment program. That is, similar to pensions, endowment and SWF obligations can be outlined in terms of near, medium and long term funding needs: for instance, a sovereign or organization may save and invest for the population’s aging-related costs, such as medical or long term care, or to finance a new university library.

Similarly, we can think about ourselves as needing to understand our future liabilities or needs, identifying both the “hard” and the “soft” liabilities. Hard liabilities could involve a mortgage or a child’s edu-

cation costs, while soft liabilities may include travel or expensive hobbies, or uncertain health issues and broader family obligations, such as care for parents.

To the extent that some of your retirement needs are longer term, this can allow you (and your pension fund) greater investment flexibility. For instance SWFs, endowments and life insurers often provide or “sell” liquidity via investment capital seeking a 4-6% illiquidity premium; this means they lock-up capital for longer periods, rather than having more immediate access.

Yet regulators and policymakers largely focus on the asset side of institutional balance sheets, rather than liquidity, funding and liability structures. Indeed, this was a contributing factor to regulatory shortcomings before the financial crisis of 2008. Today, we seem to be doing the same again…for example, efforts to regulate non-banks – including pensions – the same as banks, leads to short-termism, and we are implementing non-risk based rules on banks (eg., leverage ratios), which lead banks to provide less market liquidity. Such regulatory policies influence market behavior, making it more difficult for retirement investors to exercise the flexibility inherent in their balance sheet structures. What we need is for the less-liquidity-constrained investors to provide longer-term capital, given their longer-term liabilities, and not encouraging procyclical or short-term investment behavior.

•Culled from Forbes

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

34

SMALL BUSINESS AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Essiet_daniel@yahoo.com 08180714151

Last week, Junior Chamber International (JCI) Nigeria honoured young entrepreneurs in Lagos, DANIEL ESSIET reports.

JCI celebrates 10 outstanding young persons J

UNIOR Chamber International (JCI) Nigeria celebrated young business owners and social entrepreneurs from all over the country at a ceremony in Victoria Island, Lagos at the weekend.

The crème de la crème gathered, bringing positive role models, to celebrate those devoted to enhancing change and economic inclusion.

This year’s Ten Outstanding Young Persons (TOYP) were Adebola Olomo, Oresanwo Lolade, Odjenima Atinuke, Araba Steven Omogbolahan, UyiAivinhenyo Patricia, AbdulkadirMukhtar, Onitiju Ibukun, Akintayo Stephen, Steve Harris and Olawale Rotimi.

According to the organisers, out of 130 nominations received, 20 were selected. They were further screened by a panel. The public then voted for the final 10.

The process was anchored by the JCI’s TOYP Team, panel and a team from the international auditing firm - KPMG JCI’s National President, Seun Osikalu, said the group was delighted by the quality of persons chosen for the awards. He said TOYP, a global initiative which is being replicated in Nigeria, concentrates on formally recognising young people who are making waves in their chosen fields and creating positive impact on other people, their community and the society at large.

The recognitions, according to him, are to motivate other young people and encourage them in their bid to be socially responsible leaders. However, a diverse and vibrant array of established entrepreneurs featured in the list, high-

•From left: Osikalu; Juyitan; one of the awardees, Dr. Mukhtar and Junior Chamber International Nigeria, Senate Chairperson, Jokotade Odebunmi, during the awards in Lagos.

lighting the strength and tenacity of modern entrepreneurship.

One outstanding entrepreneur was Chief Operating Officer of Solous MRF Limited and West Africa Energy, Mrs Lolade Oresanwo, who has done much to help businesses reduce and recycle a wastes.

Her company has a facility that picks solid wastes, such as milk cans, soft drink cans and sort them through for recoverable purpose.

The firm, WestAfricaENRG, operates the first materials recovery facility in Nigeria with a focus on zero waste to landfill across the country.

The other is Olomo Adebola, chief executive officer, Deefrent Limited. Trained as a lawyer at the Obafemi Awolowo University

(OAU), Olomo has garnered over 13 years’experience in Communications - in areas, such as marketing, technology, public relations and business strategy.

Her work at MTN Nigeria won her several awards, including the much-coveted ‘Star Performance’ Award for Nigeria and WECA (West and Central Africa) in her first year. This earned her a transfer to work with MTN Group, South Africa where she covered various aspects of communications and majored on E-Communications Consultant, Group-wide.

However, Adebola’s most impressive career move happened in 2010, when she became the helmsman at Deefrent Limited. With her experience and impactful work, she

has taken Deefrent from zero to over 100 clients in just five years.

One of the awardess was Stephen Akintayo. An inspirational speaker and entrepreneur, he is the Chief Executive Officer, Gtext Media and Investment Limited, a leading firm in Nigeria, whose services span digital marketing, website design, bulk sms, online advertising, Media, e-commerce, real estate, Consulting and a host of other services.

Stephen, popularly called Pastor Stephen, is the founder of Omonaija, an online radio station in Lagos.

His mentorship has helped thousands of people, including graduates and undergraduates in business as well as in relationships. He is also the Founder and President

of Infinity Foundation, an indigenous non-governmental organisation that has assisted over 2,000 orphans and vulnerable children, and has also partnered with 22 orphanage homes.

One of the awardees, Dr Abdulkadir Mukhtar, said JCI has done well to celebrate those unsung heroes who go above and beyond the call of duty to improve the lives of others in the communities around them.

He called on young people to take leadership roles in addressing the concerns of the economy and act as pioneers in transformation.

Designed to highlight the country’s most inspirational and selfless people, the awards have attracted a growing list of corporate supporters.

TOYP Chairperson, Adetola Juyitan, said: “This year’s TOYP is coming with an unprecedented class, which is reflected through the quality of shortlisted nominees, the quality of the judges, the audit process managed by KPMG, the organisation of the grand finale of the event, among other things.”

According to her, “Junior Chamber International, Nigeria has been participating at the international level over the years, and beyond hosting the edition, we will be taking advantage of the platform of this year’s programme to re-reinforce the presence of JCI in Nigeria.”

She urged young people to contribute to the economy.

Since 1983, JCI has honoured nearly 300 individuals across 57 countries.

The criteria for recognition is that a Nigerian must be above 18, but less than 40, and must have excelled in their fields.

From oil and gas to food processing Many wonder kids do not go from big business to the farm. Rather, it is the other way round. But Olawaseun Obidipe has broken the ‘jinx’. From a sojourn in the lucrative oil and gas sector, he has gone into cassava processing. DANIEL ESSIET writes.

C

HIEF Executive, Ocean and Earth Limited, Oluwaseun Obidipe, is a multiple-award winning entrepreneur, including last year’s President Obama’s Young African Leader (Business).

With a BSc (Economics) from Olabisi Onabanjo University and Executive MBA from the Lagos Business School, his goal is to be the chief executive of a thriving and globally recognised chain of businesses.

He started off in the oil and gas firm, where he held a senior position. He later quit to establish his firm.

As an employer, he has been involved in several business ventures, such as procurement and supplies, logistics and real estate.

He started his first business with less than N50,000. Obidipe’s words: ”I remember pushing to become a government contractor in one of the agencies, in order to increase the small business’ capital, and one of the directors in the agency laughing me to scorn, at the meagre amount. Then, I got an unusual offer to render services to a financial organisation, and another, and another, and the story changed dramatically. That seed funding never depleted and grew to form the base of a multi-million naira enterprise.”

The business has grown with many hands working with him. He said: ”Even though they earn salaries at the end of the month, they must operate as intrapreneurs (i.e. work as entrepreneurs within the organisation) within the business, without that, we would never deliver on our aspirations. Starting the

business was challenging .One was finance.

He said: ”I faced similar challenges that most early game-changers face, such as desiring a financial war chest, ability to organise the required resources to achieve the dream, dealing with pessimistic and fearful majority- e.g. your peers don’t understand you/your dream; and advice you to seek the better alternative of getting a steady and stable job, and be assured of a salary, and/or the older generation warning you, from the catalogues of business failures across Africa, and advising you against a lifetime of debt and ridicule.’ ‘’Earlier, I failed terribly twice, because I didn’t know the path to successful business, so I had an idea, spent a lot of time, energy and of course, money building and branding a business, and then expected all customers to scramble, and run over themselves in patronage. ‘’No one moved! Today, I know the ultimate function of a business is to satisfy a client’s desire.”

But what drove him into agro business? He watched farm struggles with distribution of harvest through normal channels. He had seen that farm and food businesses were not diversifying their offerings and exploring direct-toconsumers effectively.‘’ For him, improvement on marketing was crucial and such business models seemed promising.

This is because the market has immense potential and lots to offer to entrepreneurs. The number of people in the middle class is set to triple over the next 15 years, im-

plying a significant impact on disposable income.

Domestic demand is expected to grow, creating opportunities for many industries. This will create huge opportunities for local and foreign companies and consultants involved in agriculture.

He chose to set up a business in the agribusiness industry because it is a critical sector in any nation, and with our inversely growing food level (i.e, the population is growing faster than the available food, leading to high dependence on food imports), there is a continuous need for urgent intervention.

Since his firm deals with the cas-

sava growers, Obidipe’s approach has been to ensure presence in almost all the states - in some cases directly and in others, through distributors who help them in marketing and the distribution.

By developing a distribution network, the company has kept the lines to their customers as short as possible. Moreover, to get maximum benefits from the chain, the firm assesses how it is doing and also on the shop floor to see how their varieties perform on the shelves.

For him, gaining an understanding of their customer needs is highly critical.

•Obidipe

Due to Obidipe’s versatility, he was appointed a mentor by YOUWiN, a the Federal Government initiative, to support innovative youth businesses awardees, and this year also, for the Tony Elumelu Entrepreneurship Programme (TEEP) grant winners.

•Executive Director, Prison Fellowship of Nigeria(PFN), Ben Iwuagwu and Deputy Controller of Prisons/ President,Prisons Wives Association (PROWA), Mrs Elizabeth Ekperedu, at the Sixth Graduation of Life Recovery Pre-Release Empowermnet Programme(Onisemus Project) at Medium Security Prison,Kirikiri,Lagos.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

35

BUSINESS AFRICA

War against counterfeits getting complex, says Odumodu

T

HE Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has said the war against fake and counterfeited products is getting more complex, adding that it remains committed to winning the war.

Its Director-General, Dr. Joseph Odumodu, who spoke in Lagos while unveiling four new logos, said the development invalidated the agency’s previous certification.

The logos unveiled are Mandatory Conformity Assessment Programme (MANCAP), SON’s Conformity Assessment Programme (SONCAP), Nigeria Industrial Standard (NIS) Mark of Quality as well as Nigeria Quality Award.

Odumodu said the war against fake, adulterated, counterfeit and sub-standard products across the country is getting complex, adding that despite this, SON is recording

•Unveils logos invalidating certification

By Toba Agboola

results.

“We need to step up efforts and, indeed, up our game in the on-going campaign to clean the vast environment of life-endangering products. Let me say first and foremost, that our efforts over time have been geared towards attaining one goal: providing safety of lives and property through standard and quality assurance of goods and services. In doing so, we need to continually innovate, think of new ideas and flow with the tide. We equally need to close gaps we have noticed in the system,” Odumodu said.

The SON chief however, gave a six-month ultimatum to manufacturers and importers to key into

the agency’s new regulation or pack up, adding that all certificates issued by the organisation to operators have been invalidated following the launch of new quality logos.

“The four logos are part and parcel of our efforts to provide comfortable cover and umbrella to members of the nation’s business community, which of course, include manufacturers, exporters and importers as well as franchise/ brandowners of products made overseas but imported into Nigeria,” Odumodu said.

However, President, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Dr. Frank Udemba Jacobs, who was at the event, pleaded with the agency to give the manufacturers more time to adjust to the new measures, adding that some products

already on the shelves have life span of two years.

He said the launching of the logos was, indeed, a challenge for manufacturers to maintain standard, admonishing consumers to be conscious of the products they patronise.

He commended SON for setting a target to reduce the level of substandard products to 10 per cent by the end of the year, adding that this would make life better for Nigerians.

The Acting Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, Alhaji Ajiya Mamman, represented by a Director in the ministry, Mrs Tawa Awobokun gave kudos to SON for its efforts in curtailing fake and substandard products from over-

Anglo Platinum uses smelter waste heat for SA power

A

•From left: Chief Sales Officer, Weco Systems, Mr. Ambrose Okougbo; Odofin of Noforija Kingdom, Chief Badejo, Uraka of Poka, Oba Alihu Kolawole Ayodele Alade; Aladeshonyin of Noforija Kingdom, Oba Babatunde Ogunlaja; Chief Operating Officer, Weco Systems, Mr. Nnamdi Onyebuchi, Olori Ogunlaja of Noforija, Mrs. Silveria Finnih; representative of the Executive Secretary, Eredo Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Mrs. Evelyn Chukwudubem; Human Resources Manager, Weco Systems and pupils of the recipient schools in Eredo LCDA during the donation of computer systems to selected schools in Eredo LCDA by Weco Systems at the firm’s CSR Initiative targeted at the grassroots.

AB InBev, SABMiller in $257b merger talks

T

HE world’s two biggest brewers have started “friendly” merger talks, sources told the Times. SABMiller, the maker of Peroni and Grolsch, is said to be playing hardball with AB InBev over price, but is not unrecep-

tive to a deal.

Earlier this month, AB InBev, brewer of Budweiser, Stella Artois and more than 200 other brands, approached SABMiller about a takeover that would form a colossus producing a third of the world’s beer.

A merged group would have a market value of around $275 billion, and would combine AB InBev’s dominance of Latin America with SABMiller’s of Africa, both fast-growing markets, as well as their breweries in Asia.

FastJet predicts bigger loss

F

ASTJET Plc, seeking to become the first discount airline with a network spanning sub-Saharan Africa, predicted a wider fullyear loss and reined in expansion plans as an economic slowdown linked to falling commodity prices weighs on revenue.

FastJet shares fell as much as 6.7 percent after the London-based carrier said there’d be a “material increase” in its full-year loss amid a weakening of the Tanzanian shilling and Zambian kwacha versus the U.S. dollar, in which it reports earnings, buys fuel and rents planes.

Revenue per passenger is also falling in real terms as Tanzania cuts public spending ahead of October elections, FastJet said. The introduc-

tion of international routes from Zimbabwe and Zambia will be delayed to mid-November and early December, pushing revenue gains into 2016, it said.

“African currencies have lost considerable value against the U.S. dollar, which, combined with a worldwide reduction in commodity prices, has caused an economic downturn in both Tanzania and Zambia,” Chief Executive Officer Ed Winter said in the release. The shilling has weakened 25 percent against the dollar this year and the kwacha by 72.4 percent.

Winter added that he’s “confident” of meeting forecasts for 2016, when house broker Liberum Capital estimates the company will post a pretax profit of $10.7

million. Liberum now estimates 2015 losses at $31.1 million, compared with $19.5 million previously.

FastJet shares fell as much as six pence to 84 pence and were trading 4.4 percent lower at 86 pence as of 10:45 a.m in London, paring gains this year to 23 percent and valuing the company - which began flying in November 2012 - at 57 million pounds ($87 million).

Operating losses in the first half decreased by 26 percent to $12.8 million and passenger numbers surged 56 percent to almost 364,000 from a year earlier, even with the same three Airbus Group SE A319 jets. The fleet size has since increased to six planes, including the first owned example.

SA to probe VW unit after emissions scandal

S

OUTH African regulators are investigating Volkswagen’s local business to see if cars sold there also rigged carbon emissions data, an official said.

The National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS), which ensures vehicles comply with the necessary standards, including emissions, before being

sold in the South African market, says on its website that all VW cars had met the requirements.

Volkswagen, the world’s biggest carmaker, has admitted using software known as a defeat device to ensure it passed U.S. testing for nitrogen oxides and said 11 million of its cars had been fitted with it.

The NRCS said it could recall cars

if VW was found not to have complied with local emissions measures.

“Should we find out that the tests that were provided to us were noncompliant, that’s when the sanctioning process will have to start,” said Temba Kaula, acting general manager of the automotive sector at the NRCS.

whelming Nigerians and helping to improve the quality of products and services in the country.

She said: “I am commending SON because facts and figures have shown that the agency is saving our time by avoiding taking a cosmetic logo change approach. SON’s underground efforts for improving quality of products and battling substandards, by developing quality infrastructure like test labs, metrology, accredited labs, harmonisation of standards, public awareness, building of human capital both staff and stakeholders through world class training will give a firm foundation for the certification schemes, award and fortification of standards to thrive.”

NGLO American Platinum Ltd. said it has started buying power from a venture that uses the heat generated by its smelters to produce electricity.

Amplats, as the world’s largest platinum producer in known, will source 4.3 megawatts (Mw) from the 150 million-rand ($11 million) plant that was built by Vuselela Energy at the mining company’s smelters in Rustenburg in the North West province, it said in a statement handed to reporters at the site. The facility captures about 20 percent of the thermal heat energy that a converter generates, said Jacques Malan, a director of Vuselela.

“We can probably squeeze out another 10 percent, but that will take time,” Malan said in an interview. The power is about 10 percent cheaper than what Amplats currently pays to Eskom Holdings SOC Ltd., South Africa’s stateowned utility, Malan said. Cost in-

creases are capped at the nation’s annual inflation rate, which was 4.6 per cent in August, he said.

Mining companies in South Africa, the world’s biggest platinum and chrome producer, are seeking to reduce their reliance on Eskom, which is struggling to maintain regular supply while prices have almost quadrupled since 2007.

Vuselela is in talks to build another 12 similar plants in South Africa and neighbouring countries, Malan said.

The facility “is the first of its kind in the world in terms of being connected to a converter at a metallurgical plant,” he said. “A significant amount of novel work was done to design the integration of the technology into the smelter complex.”

South Africa’s Department of Trade and Industry contributed 30 million rand toward the project as an incentive, Minister Rob Davies told reporters.

Euro finance confab holds in Frankfurt

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HE 18th Euro Finance Week conference billed for Frankfurt, Germany will hold in November.

According to Chief Cliff Ogbede, chief executive officer, Kleef and VTS, whose firm is the official country partner for the Week, the German group has accepted to dedicate a special session for Nigeria at the event.

He said the ministry of finance in Germany and the State of Hessen have described the hosting of the conference as a huge milestone for the largest economy in Europe .

Ogbede said the conference billed for Congress Messe Frankfurt, would play host to major European investors, who have developed genuine interest to invest in Nigeria under the new leadership of President Muhammadu Buhari.

Major speakers at this event include: The Minister President of State of Hessen, Dr Volker Bouffier, the Minister of Finance of Federal Republic of Germany, Dr Wolfgang Schaubble, the President of European Central Bank, Mr Mario Draghi, the Lord Mayor of City of Frankfurt, Peter Feldmann.

Firm rewards distributors

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RIAN Munro Limited has rewarded its diligent distributors with delightful prizes.

The firm, which manufactures Glucose-D, an energy boosting product, awarded prizes ranging from air-conditioners, tri-cycle to and the apex of all, a black Prado Jeep to distributors.

Macizco Nigeria Ltd carted away the Jeep, Dazek Enterprises cum Optimum Enterprises presented air-conditioners and Opebode Enterprise, a tricycle.

According to the General Manager, Mr. Shola Ajayi, who spoke at the presentation in Lagos, the forum is not just an avenue to fulfil promises made, but to also boost clients’ confidence in the brand and reassure customers of the willingness to cater for their welfare.

He said: “the company has always been known as a caring company. We believe when we make a promise and keep it, distributors will be loyal to the company. We are rewarding the commitment shown by our distributors.”

He noted that the brand is harnessing its efforts to sustain the stronghold it has achieved in the market.

The National Sales Manager, Mr.

By Temitayo Ayetoto

Paul Omekwe, expressed gratitude over the good patronage enjoyed so far in the market, adding that the firm has wrought a network chain across the country to enhance its marketing.

“We have a quite large no of distributors and we seem to enjoy good patronage from them. We are happy about that and that is the reason why we are having this event.

That is also the reason why we are having a leadership position that we want to maintain. We have spread across the country where the product can reach you at your door step,” he added.

He added that the firm also plans to disburse huge giveaways to its partners in Ibadan and Abia.

The Brand Manager, Mrs. Nwanchukwu Chinyere said the product is an instant energy giver enriched with Vitamin D and calcium.

According to her, it sets users in the right frame of mind to go on with the daily activities. “It’s good for everyone as consumers of glucose-D have the advantage to remain fit,” she added.

36

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

BUSINESS INTERNATIONAL Shell stops Arctic exploration after ‘disappointing’ tests

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OYAL Dutch Shell has stopped Arctic oil and gas exploration off the coast of Alaska after “disappointing” results from a key well in the Chukchi Sea. In a surprise announcement, the company said it would end exploration off Alaska “for the foreseeable future”.

Shell said it did not find sufficient amounts of oil and gas in the Burger J well to warrant further exploration.

The company has spent about $7billion (£4.5billion) on Arctic offshore development in the Chukchi and Beaufort seas.

“Shell continues to see important exploration potential in the basin, and the area is likely to ultimately be of strategic importance to Alaska and the US,” said Marvin Odum, president of Shell USA. “However, this is a clearly disappointing exploration outcome for this part of the basin.”

Lord Browne, former BP boss and government adviser, told the BBC that the Arctic “is a very risky place [to explore] and very expensive to develop, so there are probably easier places to go”.

Indeed some analysts suggested Shell might give up on the Arctic completely.

“It is possible that Shell might almost be relieved as they can stop exploration for a legitimate operational reason, rather than being seen to bow to environmental pressure,” Stuart Elliott from energy in-

formation group Platts told the BBC. “With the oil price around $50 a barrel, it was a risky endeavour with no guarantee of success.

“You could argue that this has been bad for Shell’s reputation and it wouldn’t be a big surprise if they abandoned Arctic drilling altogether.”

Certainly, the first findings from the Burger J exploration well 150 miles off the Alaskan coast were not promising.

Second, although President Barack Obama had given the necessary permissions for drilling to start again following the problems of rig fires in 2012, Mrs Clinton’s tweet revealed that political risks were still substantial.

Shell is not the only company to explore for oil offshore in the Arctic region - Italian energy group Eni could soon start producing oil from a field in the Barents Sea within weeks.

There is also one field in operation in the Russian Arctic owned

by Gazprom Neft, the oil arm of Russian energy giant Gazprom.

Last year, a joint drilling project between Rosneft and Exxon was stopped due to sanctions placed on Russia.

A number of additional exploration permits have also been issued

by Moscow, but none have yet been taken up due to the current low price of oil, which has halved in the past year.

Audi, Skoda say 3.3m cars have ‘cheat’ emissions software

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UDI and Skoda say they have a total of 3.3 million cars fitted with the software that allowed parent company Volkswagen to cheat US emissions tests.

Some 2.1 million Audis affected worldwide include 1.42 million in western Europe, with 577,000 in Germany, and almost 13,000 in the US. Czech-based Skoda said 1.2 million of its cars were involved, but has yet to give a country or model breakdown.

Separately, German prosecutors started a probe against VW’s former boss.

Former chief executive Martin Winterkorn will be investigated over “allegations of fraud in the sale of cars with manipulated emissions data,” German authorities said on Monday.

The Audi models affected include the A1, A3, A4, A5, A6, TT, Q3 and Q5 models, a spokesman told the Reuters news agency.

VW said last week that 11 million cars within the group could be affected.

The scandal was revealed after the US Environmental Protection Agency found that some diesel cars were fitted with devices that could

detect when the engine was being tested and could change the car’s performance to improve results.

The German company apologised for breaching consumers’ trust, and on Friday announced that Matthias Mueller was replacing Martin Winterkorn as chief executive. Mr Mueller promised a “relentless” investigation to uncover what went wrong.

There were also unconfirmed reports on Monday that senior R&D heads working across the car group had been suspended. Reuters said the suspensions involved staff from the Audi, Porsche and the VW brands.

Meanwhile, Volkswagen shares continue to fall in morning trading, sinking a further 6.6 per cent in addition to last week’s tumble.

The scandal has badly tarnished VW’s name, left it exposed to up to $18billion in US fines, and wiped a third off its stock market value in a week.

German authorities have demanded that VW set out a timeline

by October 7 on how it will ensure its diesel cars meet national emission standards without using cheat technology.

Apple reports record sales of iPhone PPLE (AAPL.O) said it had 6s, 6s Plus sold more than 13 million

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iPhone 6s and 6s Pluses during their first weekend on the market, setting a record for its marquee product.

The company beat its previous record of 10 million in sales for the previous generation of iPhones in its first weekend in 2014. This year’s results benefited from the inclusion of the Chinese market, where regulatory problems delayed the gadget’s debut last year.

Analysts had expected the company to sell 12 million to 13 million phones this past weekend.

“Customers’ feedback is incredible, and they are loving 3D Touch and Live Photos,” Apple Chief Executive Officer Tim Cook said in a statement. “We can’t wait to bring iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus to customers in even more countries on October 9.”

Analysts had said Apple was virtually assured to set a new record for iPhone sales with the inclusion of China, which many expect will soon be the company’s largest market.

But the figures announced on Monday suggest Apple’s iPhone sales were up overall, said FBR Capital Markets senior analyst Daniel Ives. He said the sales figures should ease investors’ concerns about how Apple will fare amid economic turmoil in China.

“Demand out of China looks white-hot,” Ives said.

Moor Insight & Strategy analyst Patrick Moorhead said the sales figures also suggested Apple seized some market share from Samsung Electronics Co Ltd (005930.KS), its chief rival in the smartphone market.

Whole Foods Market to axe 1,500 jobs

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PSCALE food market operator Whole Foods Market Inc (WFM.O) said it would cut about 1,500 jobs, or about 1.6 percent of its workforce, over the next eight weeks.

The cuts are aimed at reducing costs as the company invests in technology upgrades, Whole Foods said in a filing.

The affected positions were mainly in stores, but “back of house” positions that were not customer facing, the company

said in an email to Reuters.

Whole Foods said it would offer employees options including transition pay, severance, or allow them to apply for other jobs.

The job cuts come as the retailer is working to shed its “Whole Paycheck” nickname and its reputation for high prices. Whole Foods said in May that it would launch a new chain of smaller, more value-focused shops next year.

The company, which domi-

nates the natural and organic grocery category, faces increasing competition from specialty and mainstream retailers.

The New York’s Department of Consumer Affairs said in June it was investigating Whole Foods after finding that the company charged too much for some prepackaged foods at nine of its New York City stores.

The company’s shares were down 0.5 percent at $30.96 in low volumes in premarket trading on Monday.

•From left: Lagos State Director-General, Office of Transformation, Creativity and Innovation, Mr Toba Otusanya; Head of Service, Mrs Shade Jaji and Technical Coordination Manager, State Partnership for Accountability, Responsiveness and Capability (SPARC)/Department for International Development (DFID), Mrs. Chika-Uwadi during a training exercise organised by the Office of Transformation, Creativity and Innovations (OTCI) for administration and human resource officers in the state ministries, departments and agencies at Digital centre in Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos.

GE to move engine plant to Canada ENERAL Electric Co (GE.N) said it will move production of large, gaspowered engines to Canada from Waukesha, Wisconsin, along with 350 jobs, because the company cannot access financing through the U.S. Export-Import bank.

In its latest salvo aimed at persuading Congress to renew the trade bank’s expired charter, GE said it will invest $265 million in a new state-of-the-art manufacturing plant at a Canadian location yet to be determined. The facility, to open in about 20 months, can be expanded and provide flexible manufacturing capacity to support other GE businesses, including engines for railroad locomotives, GE said.

Export Development Canada will provide export financing support for products made in the new plant, GE said. In Waukesha, GE builds large piston engines generally used for electric power generation that run on natural gas or methane from landfills, many of

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which are exported to developing countries.

In recent weeks, GE has announced a steady drumbeat of deals to move thousands of jobs and access government export credit from the United Kingdom, France, Hungary and China. In each case, GE said these deals were prompted by lack of EXIM financing in the United States.

GE Vice Chairman John Rice told Reuters that foreign export credit agencies are “rolling out the red carpet” for the manufacturer and expanding its capacity to offer financing and loan guarantees to foreign customers.

“I think we’re satisfied that we have positioned ourselves to compete successfully in a postEXIM world,” Rice said in a telephone interview from Hong Kong, where he is based.

He said he was concerned about the resignation of House of Representatives Speaker John Boehner, a longtime EXIM supporter who will leave Congress at the end of October. Boehner’s likely successor, House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy, has

sided with hard-line conservatives in opposing the renewal of EXIM’s charter, which expired on June 30.

“Obviously with the Boehner resignation, we lose one important person there, so I don’t think it makes it any easier,” Rice said.

“Let’s face it, you’ve got a system in the United States now where a significant majority of the members of Congress can support something and it won’t move forward because of the perspective of the few and the money behind that perspective,” he said, referring to outside conservative groups that have been calling for EXIM to be closed permanently.

Rice said GE would continue to move jobs and make deals with foreign export credit agencies where such support is needed for the industrial conglomerate to compete for foreign contracts. He said, however, that the company was “not turning our back at all on U.S. manufacturing.”

Glencore shares tumble to record low

HARES in commodity giant Glencore plunged 25 per cent after analysts raised fears about lower metal prices.

The company’s shares dropped to a new record low of 73p at 15:00, helping push the FTSE 100 down two per cent.

Analysts warned slumping metal prices could leave Glencore shares almost worthless because of its heavy debts.

Fears over Glencore’s £20billion debt pile have seen its shares drop more than 30 per cent in the past month.

More than £3billion was wiped off Glencore’s market value after a warning from analysts at

Investec.

They wrote that low metals prices “could see almost all equity value eliminated” at the Switzerland-based company.

They also questioned how much Glencore could raise from selling its agriculture division, as “valuing such a volatile business is likely to be tough”.

Glencore hopes to generate up to $12billion (£7.9billion) from the sale of its grains business to reduce its debt burden.

The Investec analysts said that without major restructuring, Glencore and another debt-laden mining firm, Anglo American, could see their value “evaporate”.

Shares in London-listed Anglo American also fell nine per cent.

Hunter Hillcoat, an analyst at Investec, said: “Mining companies gorged themselves on cheap debt in a race to grow production following the Chinese stimulus that occurred in the wake of the great financial crisis.

“The consequences are only now coming home to roost, as mines take a long time to build.”

Fears of a slowdown in China’s economy has weighed on metal prices, with copper, aluminium and nickel all down more than 25% compared to a year ago.

39

WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

POLITICS THE NATION

E-mail:- politics@thenationonlineng.net

KOGI POLITICS

Yomi Awoniyi, an architect, is the deputy governor of Kogi State. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain spoke with Group Political Editor EMMANUEL OLADESU in Lagos on the Wada administration, the preparation for the November 21 governorship election and conditions for a free and fair election in the Northcentral state.

‘PDP ‘ll retain Kogi’ W

HAT are the conditions that will guarantee free and fair election in Kogi State in November?

The impartiality of all the institutions and agencies involved, including the INEC, the police, and the support facilities. I know the Federal Government is on that track of honesty, truthfulness and anti-corruption. Election manipulation is the height of corruption. It corrupts the democratic process. If we can ensure that the democratic process is not corrupted, there will be free and fair election and we stand to benefit from that type of arrangement.

Why is Governor Idris Wada seeking a second term?

His Excellency Captain Idris Wada is desirous of a second term to complete the projects he started in his first term and also to do more.

When this administration came on board, the first priority was to complete all the on-going projects. These include the Secretariat Building, the Confluence Stadium, the Water Works in Lokoja, various road projects, the diagnostic centre, the vocational centre and other projects. With the completion of those projects, the governor embarked on new ones, which he was able to do by accessing the bond market. Some of the on-going projects include The Motor Park in Lokoja, 500 Housing Units shared between Ganaja and the Crusher area, Redevelopment of Kogi Hotels Lokoja, the College of Medicine Ayingba, various water projects across the three senatorial zones, the construction of the main township road in Lokoja, the Ganaja to Otokiti by-pass road and so on. His Excellency deserves a second term are to complete these projects and initiate new ones.

What are the issues that will shape the next governorship election in Kogi State?

There are many issues confronting our state at the moment. But, Governor Wada is always on top of every situation. He is managing the payment of salaries to the State Civil Service in a commendable manner. Thus, there is no industrial dispute in the state. As regards the local government workers the salary is being handled with uncommon dexterity. Another defining issue is that of power rotation in Kogi State. There is so much agitation by the people of West and Central senatorial districts for power rotation. We in the PDP are committed to power rotation come January 2020, by God’s grace, to either the West or Central zone.

Other things that will shape the election will be the personality of the candidates. Our people are aware of the antecedents of the candidates. At the end of the day, they will make the right choices.

What is your assessment of the candidates?

I have good relationship with all the candidates. The only person I don’t know is the APC running mate. We have never met. I know Prince Abubakar Audu of the APC quite well.

He is my uncle. ( He laughs ) Chief Philip Salau of the Labour Party (LP) is my immediate predecessor and was my classmate in school. Governor Idris Wada is a fine man, worthy of respect. I have worked with him in the last three and half years. I have the greatest respect for him. As for assessing the candidates, I will let the people do that on November the 21st. I can only talk about my boss. He is hardworking, humane, diligent and committed to making Kogi state a better place.

He has sacrificed a lot to ensure that we make progress within the context of the ever dwindling resources.

But, some people have described Audu as the builder and father of Kogi. What is your reaction?

Uncle Audu was the first civilian governor

‘Kogi can’t afford to be in opposition’ Hon. James Abiodun Faleke is the the Kogi State All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship running mate and the House of Representatives member representing Ikeja Constituency, Lagos. In this interview with JAMES AZANIA, he gives reasons why the state cannot afford to remain in the opposition.

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•Awoniyi of Kogi. He was also the first governor in this dispensation in 1999. Prince Audu had the benefit of being the pioneer governor. Therefore everything he did was against the backdrop of a blank canvass. This magnified his works.

But as an Urban Planner, the level of planning that was needed to ensure the state developed in an orderly manner was just not there. Development Control was sacrificed on the altar of expediency. However, today we are in partnership with UN- Habitat to re-plan 4 (four) towns in the state by coming up with comprehensive City Structure Plans for coordinated development. In the interim, Government is having to do a lot of retrofitting. For example, some of the city infrastructure built yesteryears are being done again. May be, because they were hurriedly done over 20 years ago.

They have failed due to improper planning and construction. For example, the Lokoja Township Road, for the first time and under the Wada Administration, proper drainages are being constructed. On completion of the drainages, the road track will last much longer after the asphalting is completed. Development is a continuous process. H.E Alhaji Ibrahim Idris was Governor for about nine years. He did a lot of projects - roads, schools, clinics, water works and so on. Within the limit of resources available today, Captain Idris Wada has done marvelously well. So, that title master builder also fits His Excellency Captain Idris Wada.

How is the government tackling insecurity in Kogi State, particularly the onslaught of Fulani herdsmen against farmers and kidnapping?

Kogi State has a peculiar problem. It is located in the centre of the country and we are surrounded by nine states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). This creates a lot of entries and exits. More than other states, we have more boundary disputes. The herdsmen are nomads who move around the country.

The rift between Fulani herdsmen and farmers is a national problem. Afew days ago, a respected elder statesman was kidnapped in Ondo State. This is why the government of Captain Idris Wada is interested in the ideas •Continued on page 40

AN you clear the air over the controversy that followed your nomination as the running mate to Prince Abubakar Audu?

I was born on December 25, 1959 to the family of late Pa Benjamin Faleke and Mrs. Janet Omorewo Faleke of Ekinrin-Adde in Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State. I schooled at Baptist Day Primary School, Ekinrin Adde and had my secondary school education at the Abdulazeez Atta Memorial College Okene, after which I proceeded to Kaduna Polytechnic and graduated in 1986. I had my Masters Degree in Business Administration from the Imo State University. Before I ventured into politics, however, how did I get to Lagos? I was posted to Lagos during the 1986/87 (NYSC) service year. We had our camp in Ile Ife, Osun State and I emerged the Camp Parade Commander out of four states put together then and of course due to my activities during the service, I was given a National NYSC Merit Award and I served in Ikeja Local Government Area. I actually served in Igbobi, but my primary assignment was in Ikeja LGA. I have been involved in politics from youth.

My mother was the Women Leader during the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) days and of course that entrenched me into the system. The late Pa Olawoyin of Offa was one of our great fathers, a great leader. The late Kokori of Okene and Senator A. T. Ahmed of blessed memory were also my mentors politically. These were the people I followed in politics.

However, I didn’t start politics like that; I was invited by the people of my constituency in Ikeja to serve in the capacity as the Chairman of the local government. In the process, I became the Chairman of Chairmen in Lagos State (the Conference 57). I served first and second terms as Council Chairman and everybody in Lagos knew that I am from Kogi State. I have never hidden my identity.

I have always told Nigerians or Lagosians generally, where I come from and I am proud to come from Kogi State. I use it to campaign. I have a great honour and regard for my leader, Asiwaju Ahmed Bola Tiunbu. He is a detribalised Nigerian. He always allows people from other geographical areas to contest for political positions in Lagos State because the people said they want you. I want to say that the training I received as a council chairman during my days in the local government has made me a more or less grassroots politician in Ikeja area and Lagos State in generally.

While in Lagos State, I was again elected to serve as a House of Reps member to represent Ikeja Federal constituency at the National Assembly from 2011 to 2015 and then I sought to contest for a second term and I was re-elected unopposed in my party’s primary. That was the singular honour the Ikeja people did to me.

Again, that was the first time an aspirant from Ikeja Federal Constituency would be contesting the seat for the second term. No politician has ever gone for and won the ticket for a second term, but mine was not only going for the second term but I contested unopposed in my party primary. I also served as the Director-General, Buhari/Osinbajo Campaign Organisation incharge of Lagos State. Now I am being considered to serve in the capacity of Deputy Governor of my state. I have a house in my village, Ekinrin-Adde. In 2011, I was at home on my own volition to canvass for support for Prince Abubakar Audu who was the Kogi State governorship candidate of our party. Then, we were in the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN). I campaigned for him in my village and that was the

first time my people will vote for him and he won in Ekinrin-Adde. The feat was achieved due to the great respect my people have for me.

Again, even this time around, my intention was just to be part of the campaign team, not knowing I will be called upon to serve.

Did you lobby to become the running mate?

I did not lobby for it at all. My intention was just to be part of the campaign team. I only went to the national secretariat of our party to inform our National Chairman of my intention to serve in the campaign team. I was even suggesting people he could use for Deputy Governorship and of course one way or the other, I was called upon to serve in the capacity. I think it is just time God said I should go and serve my people and to me it is divine, because I never planned it.

How would assess President Muhammadu Buhari’s 100 days in office?

Yes, Nigerians have been experiencing change in many areas. He is just 100 days plus in office and you can see the country is calm and everything is going on smoothly. First, in the area of petrol, Nigerians now have the opportunity to get the product at the official price of N87 and the correct metering system across the country.

Electricity supply has improved tremendously.

The fight against the deadly Boko Haram is being won gradually and the fight against corruption is ongoing and for the first time in this country, Nigerians now know that they have a leader that is transparent and ready to serve with all sincerity of purpose. I want to assure Nigerians that in a short while, we shall all experience change in all areas of our national life.

How prepared are you for your latest role and what do you have for the state?

I am 100 per cent prepared. I am psychologically and spiritually prepared. Of course, I am physically prepared to work with the Prince of the Niger, Prince Abubakar Audu, to rescue Kogi State from the present situation that we have found ourselves. I feel sad to see our township roads for example, the only road that passes through Lokoja, the state capital. It is like a local government road. In Lagos, as a council chairman, I wouldn’t even construct such roads.

•Faleke

•Continued on page 40

THE NATION WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

40

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With the clear inability of the two frontline political parties, the PDP and the APC, to throw up a candidate from outside the majority Igala-speaking Kogi East Senatorial District, Salawu has become the symbol of the agitation for power shift

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POLITICS KOGI POLITICS

‘PDP ‘ll retain Kogi’ •Continued fom page 39 of the Federal Government about grazing reserves. It will go a long way in curbing these episodic and criminal movement of herdsmen.

We as a government will continue to sensitise our farmers to try and accommodate these herdsmen and not indulge in violence as a means of settling dispute. To a very large extent, we have made some progress. We have a situation where some of these herdsmen transform themselves into armed robbers.

With the active support of the police, we have been able to stem that to a large extent. On kidnapping, we have had an unfortunate spate of kidnapping in Kogi State. It was a racket. But, the moment that racket was broken, the kidnapping was stemmed. There was a time Boko Haram insurgents were flushed out of the Northeast and some of them came to Kogi state. We had an upsurge of attacks, especially in the Central Senatorial District. But, the citizens, working in concert with the police were able to come together to assist the government to arrest the situation. But, following the jail break in Koton Karfe, it reared its head again. It was alleged that sus-

‘

The PDP still remains the party to beat in Kogi State. During the election that ushered in the APC Federal Government, there were a lot of issues. The APC won the presidential and National Assembly elections. Two weeks after, the PDP won the House of Assembly elections in Kogi State

pected Boko Haram insurgents went to the DSS office in Lokoja to secure suspected members who were detainees. This is a national problem.

But, we as a government are resolute and we are ready to cooperate with relevant security agencies to ensure that Kogi State is safe. That is one of the major achievements of the administration of Captain Idris Wada. Before, our youths were used for thuggery and other deviant social behaviors. But now, we have been able to inculcate into our youths better values and they now shun those vices. We have programmes that have taken our youths off the streets to gainful entrepreneurial concerns.

Is the second ambition of Captain Wada not being threatened by the intimidating profile of the APC, which now wields the power of incumbency at the centre?

The PDP still remains the party to beat in Kogi State. During the elec-

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tion that ushered in the APC Federal Government, there were a lot of issues. The APC won the presidential and National Assembly elections. Two weeks after, the PDP won the House of Assembly elections in Kogi State. The House of Assembly election is a local election. The issues are more local. They are issues dear to the people. The candidates are very close to the local people.

With the strength of the PDP in the House of Assembly, it is evident that the PDP is on ground. So, I am not worried by the national profile of the APC. It could be an issue. But, this Federal Government is for change. A level playing field will be provided for all parties to contest for the governorship of Kogi State. And I am sure the PDP will win.

There is cash crunch, following the decrease in oil earnings. How does your government intend to weather the storm, in terms of providing in-

Salau: Labour Party‘ll spring surprise

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OGI State Labour Party (LP) governorship candidate Chief Salau has said that the party will spring a surprise during the governorship election.

The former deputy governor described himself as a candidate to beat, adding that he represents the vision of the people for a better state.

Reiterating his commitment to power shift, he said: “I am an advocate of power shift and that is why despite the odds I have decided to contest and even if I do not emerge as the candidate of the party I will continue to fight on until I realise it”.

With the clear inability of the two frontline political parties, the PDP and the All Progressives Congress (APC), to throw up a candidate from outside the majority Igala-speaking Kogi East Senatorial District, Salawu has become the symbol of the agitation for power shift.

Salau added: “I believe in equity,

justice and fairness. I am not coming on the basis of ethnicity but coming to the government house to unite the different ethnic groups of kogi State through my actions, inactions and utterances. I have worked closely with the Igalas, both in public and private services. They know my temperament and my integrity. I worked with Emmanuel Ocholi, who was my Managing Director at RIMS Merchant Ban), Michael Achimugu, my director and my records are with these people for confirmation. My record is also with Ibro (former governor Ibrahim Idris) for confirmation.

Among the groups that have endorsed Salawu is the Ebira Youth Congress (EYC), which hinged its support for his candidacy on the need to actualise power shift.

The EYC said its support for Salawu followed the inability of the Central and West senatorial dis-

•Awoniyi frastructure, implementing projects and meeting the wage bill? How do you intend to boost internally generated revenue?

This is a very pertinent question.

Kogi is basically a civil service state.

The major source of income comes from the Federation Account. It has been dwindling exponentially monthly. Our allocation for this month, for example, is about N2.9

billion, which is short of what is needed to pay salaries and allowances. These are some of the major challenges that we face as a government. When we came in January 2012, IGR hitherto was between N180 and N200 million. Now, it hovers around N500m or N600m. It is still a far cry from where we want to be. Without imposing much burden on the people, an IGR Development Plan is being fashioned out to capture development control issues and environmental sanitation concerns.

Also the Wada Administration revenue earning projects such as the Motor Park, Kogi Hotel, the Diagnostic Centre and Kogi House in Abuja will be completed soon. These would contribute significantly to the IGR envelope of the state. We want to harvest all revenues that can be harvested from all economic activities and also develop new revenue streams. There is still a disconnect between the desire of the people for development and the total aggregate of revenue that is accruable to the state. That is why one must commend the Federal Government for its initiative to bail out the states.

Although we are yet to access our bail out funds after duly submitting our request, we believe that we should benefit just as other states have benefitted because we need to give succour to our work force.

Can Wada win poll?

T

•Salau tricts to come up with a consensus candidate for the election in their quest for power shift.

The group said its choice of Salawu is without prejudice to political, religious or personal consideration. It called on all well-meaning people of the state to support the consensus candidate to achieve power shift in the interest of equity and fairness.

HE governor of Kogi State, captain idris Wada, has said that he is confident of retaining his seat during the poll. But, his challenger, former Governor Abubakar Audu, said his days are numbered in the office.

Wada’s mien belies his astuteness at the chess board of politics. His ability to outmanoeuvre his opponents at the Peoples Democratic Peoples (PDP) primary attested to his political dexterity and capacity for survival.

Following the last minute postponement of the shadow poll, many had written him off. But, the governor won the shadow election in grand style, polling 749 votes, as against 138 votes garnered by his major opponent, Alhaji Isah Jibrin (Echocho). The latter openly embraced him before the result was announced.

Before the contest, the forces against him, both from Abuja and the home front, appeared insurmountable. However, the event was an anti-climax.Wada carrying the day, setting the stage for the

•Wada By james Azania

pursuit of his second term ambition.

But, there is one more hurdle to cross. Audu, the APC candidate, is a formidable politician. He is a crowd puller. He has connections. he has pedigree. He cannot be dismissed with the wave of the hand.

The APC defeated the PDP during the last presidential and National Assembly elections in the state, although it lost at the House of Assembly election. Now, the stage is set for an epic battle.

‘Kogi can’t afford to be in opposition’

•Audu

•Continued fom page 39 It saddens my heart to see a state that was created in 1991 is yet to come up after the way Prince Abubakar Audu left it in 2003. The current economic situation we find ourselves in the state can be attributed to the failure

of the successors of Prince Audu to tap into other sources of revenue generation. Maybe they don’t have the knowledge or they lack the mental acumen to tap into other sources of revenue.

Our agenda is to rescue the state and ensure that we bring it back to the comity of states where it will be highly respected. We also want to ensure that in the area of infrastructural development our state is brought up to the standard that will be admired

by Kogites. We will ensure that our healthcare facilities are working well, ensure that our students are well taken care of, improve the education sector of the state, ensure that job opportunities are created for our teaming unemployed youths in the state.

Our opportunity of coming back by the grace of God is to create wealth and employment opportunities for the people and at the end, improve the living standard of the people of the state.

‘

Our agenda is to rescue the state and ensure that we bring it back to the comity of states where it will be highly respected. We also want to ensure that in the area of infrastructural development our state is brought up to the standard that will be admired by Kogites Are you registered to vote in Kogi State?

If people say I am a Lagosian, yes, I am a Lagosian. But, I have never lost my Ekirin-Adde identity. I am a Lagosian and Lagosians know that I am from Kogi State and I am proud to come from the Kogi State. Normally, you are born in a village and you travel out of that village in search of greener pastures. But, later in life, such persons come back home to rest.

Like the Yoruba adage says “Ile labo isimi oko”.

I want to say that I give God the glory and I give thanks to the Lagosian for giving me the opportu-

’

nity to be trained, to be tutored and to be empowered and of course you know everything about good governance is Lagos State. What I want to bring back home is good governance and I want to sincerely say that yes, I did not register to vote in Kogi State, but you are aware of the opportunity provided by the Independent National Electoral Commissions (INEC) for anyone that wants to transfer his or her voting data to any location of their choice. So, I have since transferred my voting data to my polling unit in Ekinrin-Adde Ward in Ijumu Local Government. So, that is not a problem at all. God is in control.

What is your message for the electorates in Kogi State?

My message to them is that, from Kogi West, Central and East, we cannot afford to remain in the opposition to the federal government. This is time to remove our state from the hands of the clueless party called PDP. I am always surprised to hear them shouting PDP! Power! Where is the power? Is it the power that they have used wrongly? No transformation in Kogi State. It is time to change.

Change for the better. Change to a government that is productive.

Change to a government that would be responsive. Change to a government that will guarantee dividends of democracy and change to the government that will be very transparent. Finally, I want to tell them that come November 21, 2015 they should all come out en-masse to cast their votes for the APC. The party remains the only platform that can guarantee the real change they are yearning for.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

42

SHOWBIZ

Eucharia Anunobi joins Tinsel

Clarence Peters shoots horror flick

By Ovwe Medeme

By Ovwe Medeme

M

O

NE of Nollywood’s finest actresses and film producer, Eucharia Anunobi, has joined the cast of acclaimed television series, Tinsel.

She is the latest addition to the M-Net production. The actress, who is also a pastor, joins the show as Claudia Ojeme, wife of Japheth Ojeme and mother to Jared. Her character is aimed at making her son give up of his passion of becoming a professional biker.

Eucharia’s addition is coming after the show announced that BBA representative, Tayo Faniran, will temporarily replace Gbenro Ajibade as Soji in the series.

Sometime last year, award-winning actor, Wale Ojo, joined Tinsel where he plays the role of Nosa, a well-known established comedian and a lawyer by training; known for uttering outrageous truths and taking positions that go against conventional wisdom.

Eucharia is a graduate of English Language from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. The actress came into limelight for her role in the 1994 movie Glamour Girls. She is currently an evangelist at a church in Egbeda, Lagos.

The highly-rated drama series, Tinsel began airing in August 2008. On May 23, 2013, the show’s 1000th episode aired. Tinsel is produced by M-Net/Africa Magic. Its plot

• Eucharia

revolves around two rival film companies: Reel Studios, founded by Fred Ade-Williams (Victor Olaotan), and Odyssey Pictures, headed by Brenda “Nana” Mensah (Funmilola Aofiyebi-Raimi).

The show returned for its eighth season on the 25th of May, 2015.

USIC video director, Clarence Peters is exploring new frontiers with the shoot of a short film titled Hex. “I’ve been working on something special for a while now and I’m happy to inform you that the trailer for my short film, HEX, is out,” Peters announced on his Instagram page.

Based on the trailer of Hex, the 26 minute film tells the fictional story of five young people who suffer severe emotional breakdown and are put through haunting experiences after they accidentally knocked down an unknown man on their way back home.

Hex is written by Clarence Peters, Rotimi ‘Rcube’ Oshodi and Victor Sanchez Aghahowa, and directed by Clarence Peters.

Clarence is a Nigerian music video director, filmmaker and cinematographer. He is the founder and CEO of Capital Dream Pictures, a production company that specialises in the realms of the performing arts, new media art, film, television, radio, and video.

He is also the founder and CEO of Capital Hill Records, a record label that is home to the likes of Chidinma, Tha Suspect, and Illbliss. He was ranked 2nd on Channel O’s Top 10 Most Visionary Music Video Directors list. In 1998, he was involved in a Mobil

By Jane Kolade

L

ANCELOT Oduwa Imasuen, popularly known as The Guvnor is set to celebrate the twentieth anniversary of his foray into Nollywood. Friends, colleagues, and loved ones have rolled out the drums to celebrate this great thespian. Amongst the activities scheduled to celebrate this Nollywood pacesetter will be the launch of his incursion into television with the release of two television series, amongst a flurry of activities within, and outside the country.

In recognition of his immense talent, body of works, and contributions to the Nigerian Movie Industry, the prolific and hardworking filmmaker, screen writer, and director recently received three awards. One of which was his investiture as patron of a youth organisation in his home state; Edo. He will be celebrated by friends, colleagues, mentees, and well-wishers at a red carpet event on

Saturday, while a thanksgiving service will hold at his church on Sunday.

The Edo born Film director, who cut his teeth in acting as a secondary school boy at his alma mater, Eghosa College, has come a long way from his humble beginnings. Lancelot started his love affair with the make-believe world in front of the camera, before moving behind the camera, finding fame and fortune in the process.

As a young man, he was involved in singing, dancing, theatre, voiceovers, and such.

Although he started his movie career in Benin with the now defunct Bendel Broadcasting Service in a variety of roles; actor, radio presenter, voice over artist, and lots more.

As he puts it, “I have never done any other thing (job). From secondary school I was acting, after which I continued acting, even before going to the university to study Theatre Arts.

In fact, I was already a household name in my state, Edo State, prior to being split in into Edo, and Delta States.”

The young Lancelot, who moved to Lagos in 1994 in search of the proverbial Golden Fleece made his first movie in 1995, and has quite a number of movies to his credit, the last of which; Invasion 1897, has been nominated for several awards at various film festivals.

• Kene Mkparu

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HE management of Filmhouse Cinemas, one of the largest cinema providers in Nigeria, has announced the launch of a new mobile app through which guests can buy tickets at their convenience anywhere in the country.

Gloria Ibru features Dede Mabiaku in new single, Africa

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• Gloria

sponsored music video for a documentary on AIDS. To his credit, he directed 40 episodes of the TV series Everyday People. Peters has directed music videos for recording artists across an array of genres and generations, including Darey, Durella, and Wizkid.

Filmhouse Cinemas out with mobile app

Lancelot Imasuen celebrates 20 years in Nollywood

• Lancelot

• Jeffrey

LASSY singer, Gloria Ibru, who recently clocked 50, is set to release a new single titled Africa. According to information, the new track features Afrobeat singer, Dede Mabiaku.

The gorgeous mother of one has been an icon in Nigerian music industry, performing live for about 30 years. Though the singer has battled health issues in the recent past, she says that she is not resting on her oars as she brings Dede’s talent to bear in the new single.

According to Gloria, the song is a fusion of different genres and is a great song that celebrates Africans and our value.

The Sugar Mama crooner says that the single is one of the songs that will make up her album which will be released in December.

The album launch, she also says, will coincide with the launch of her foundation which will cater for victims of spinal cord injury.

“Recording this song with Dede Mabiaku, my old time friend was a delight. The song titled, Africa is out now and we are shooting the video presently. Africa is part of the songs that will make my album. Sugar Mama was dropped early this year.

In my album, I’m bringing a fusion of jazz, highlife, calypso, afro pop and other genres of music together,” Gloria enthused.

A statement from Filmhouse Cinemas reads; “it is with great pleasure that the management of Filmhouse announce the relaunch of its website, complete with an online ticket booking portal. What this means is that guests now have the opportunity to buy movie tickets online from the comfort of their homes ahead of a visit to the cinema.”

Currently the Mobile App is available only for Android devices only and it gives users the chance to view movie schedules, read brief and highly informative movie previews, and helps locate the nearest Filmhouse cinema to one’s location.

“At Filmhouse cinemas, we take two things very seriously; the experience and the convenience. With the launch of our online ticket booking website, we are thrilled to have once again answered the call of our loving guests. I would implore our guests to take up the convenience of booking tickets online as they make plans to see their favorite movies,” said Kene Mkparu, CEO/MD Filmhouse Cinemas.

To celebrate the launch, he said Filmhouse would be giving everyone the chance to win free tickets, internet data and mobile phones.

To win, interested individuals are required to follow Filmhouse cinemas online and answer a simple movie trivia.

Soldier’s Story hits Nigerian cinemas

N

EW Nollywood flick, A Soldier’s Story, is set to make its run in cinemas across Nigeria. The film made its first stop at The Genesis Cinemas, Lekki, drawing a section of excited film buffs.

In the movie, AMVCA award winning actress and model, Linda Ejiofor, plays Regina, the lead character. Voice-over artiste and actor, Tope Tedela plays the role of Major Egan.

Multi-award winning actor, Daniel K. Daniel plays Boss, a ruthless and brutal dog of war whose only interest is in the spoils. Adesua Etomi on the other hand, plays the character, Lebari, Major Egan’s beautiful wife who has to deal with the realities of a soldier’s spouse.

Interestingly, popular radio presenter, Classic FM’s On Air Personality, Chico Aligwekwe, aka Big Chico, plays the character Lt. Col. Bello, a decorated officer whose feelings for Lebari, his god daughter, drives him to a decision that sets the premise of the story.

Zainab Balogun, a television personality with EbonyLife TV, plays Angela, Regina’s close friend; a go-getter with an eye for Regina’s crush, Egan.

Other class acts that distinguish themselves in the movie are Chidozie Nzeribe, aka ‘Sambasa’ who plays the character, Ghetto, a trigger happy and trusted hand of Boss as well as Olumide Oworu, a multi-talented entertainer who plays the character Edwin, Regina’s naive younger brother.

The movie is directed by Frankie Ogar who holds a masters degree in Media Production from Birmingham University. He has also produced and directed numerous television series in addition to working for many years for BBC. Soldier’s Story is produced by Martin Gbados.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

43

The Midweek Magazine

E-mail:- ozoluauhakheme@yahoo.com

Socio-cultural relevance of carved monoliths

H

AVE you ever heard of the carved monoliths? These precious blocks of stones are found in the Cross River basin area now known as Cross River State. Historically, the area once served as the capital of Nigeria before it was moved to Lagos in 1914.

In 1940 under the colonial administration of Sir Richardson constitution, it was named eastern region and was later zoned under south eastern region 1967 when General Yakubu Gowon created 12 states. In 1976 Cross River was among the 19 states created by late General Murtala Muhammed. Cross River is a multi–lingua ethnic society which comprises of 16 local government areas. Efik is the major spoken language among the cross river people.

By definition, monolith is a single upright block of stone (as a pillar or monument) that was shaped into column by people living in ancient time that have some religious meaning. It is slow to change. The monolith is believed to represent the ancestors that has been in existence over two thousand (2, 000) years. It tells the story of the origin of the people as well as the significance of facial and body marks. It also tells the story of the belief system of their time, especially about procreation and fertility which is illustrated on the shape and marking of different genders.

These carved stones found in the middle of Cross River among the Ejagham people locally called Akwanshi or Atal were found across thirty communities. The stones are erected in circles standing in other to prevent them from being tampered with by the weather or human activities. They are found in strategic places such as meeting points in the community or in secret shrines.

According to oral history, it is the ancestors of Ekoi people that put the stones where they are. It is also believed that the stones are gotten out of the river were smooth by water but the ancestors only cut out the faces with stones and iron. Each faces representing one of the dead chiefs whose names are not known.

According to the Ekoi people, who live in various villages, there is a sole spiritual head or chief priest called Ntoon, thus, when he dies, he is also represented in Carved Basalt Monolith (Akwanshi).

Over 300 monolith carved from basalt in this style were created in Cross River be-

From Beatrice Unoyem Gbaniyi

MONUMENT tween 200 and 1900 A. D. These lithic monuments which vary in sizes ranging from two to over six feet in height are usually found in circular group facing inward. The images of human features on the addition, the scale, number and arrangement of Cross River monolith distinguished them from other grouping of an anthropomorphic sculpture like the Esie soapstone images.

Origin Since the first discovery of the monolith in 1903, the origin has remained a mystery, their date of execution and their purposes. It is believed among the Ekoi people that the spirit of the dead returns to live in the stone and also another oral tradition states that the monolith or Akwanshi were carved between the 16th and 20th century A.D. There are several sites in which monolith or Akwanshi is located in Ikom area of Cross River State among the main sites are as follows: Abayong, Agba, Akumabal etc.

Though this object has played an important role in the ritual of successive generations of members of local communities.

They may represent the spirit of the deceased ancestor. It is also possible that they were created as memorials to important figures.

The other version maintains that the stones were created by spiritual powers and emerged out of the ground like trees. It is difficult to ascertain which version of the story is authentic and acceptable.

Description

They are different sizes, the Monoliths are decorated with geometric designs and stylised human features, noticeable eyes and open mouth, others have heads with rings, stylised pointed beards and elaborate marks navels, two decorative hands with five fingers, nose decorated with various shapes of facial marks.

The geometric design on these images of the monolith perhaps show that the maker had basic calculations while some also believe that it is the method of Nsibidi writing.

Features

The Monolith have eyes, nose, mouth, beards and naval portrayed as well as ears,

hands, arms, breast and geometric decorations (some of which represent tribal marks).

Though the carvings ends at the naval but the beard is an indication that they are all male.

Some monolith, especially those of the Etina have the neck groove shallower which arms, hands and surface decoration are added. Some also look unusual in lacking a sculptured navel, while others have massive leads on the faces which bears the diagonal cheek marks. At Nkrigor (Nselle), there are Akwanshi that have open mouth wedge, shaped beard and protruding naval as well as facial marks.

‘Make good use of ICT’

By Suliat Abodunrin

ADVOCACY

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*Gbaniyi is of National Museum, Onikan Lagos.

EOPLE who are visually impaired have been advised not to see their condition as a barrier.

Speaking at the yearly youth conference of the Nigerian Association of the Blind, Southwest Youth Wing, Joseph Okon, who was the key speaker said there are many prospects for them.

He further said: “The revolution to liberate the blind began years ago. It’s as if God intentionally sent the Information Communication Technology (ICT) to better our lives”. We must learn the appropriate use of ICT and develop the willingness to explore its depth. This is important so that we do not always look helpless and we can handle our affairs and this will get us respect from people.

“The Nigeria social structure challenges and the way forward. the yearly event featured students, and professionals who were visually impaired and representatives from various governmental parastatals loyal to the visually impaired community.

E. O. Abogunde, who represented the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, decried the financial state of some of the people with visual disabilities.

She, however, stressed that it was pertinent that financial state of visually impaired people is looked into and that adequate measutes be put in place to cater for them.

Also, the representative of the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Office for Disability (LASODA), Ogunrinde Olusesan, urged People Living with Disabilites (PLDs) to register.

He said: “Getting registered has many benefits, when PLDs get registered, it helps to enligten people. It allows us to ensure that you are indeed living with a disability and determine the kind of disability you have. After which we do the demographic calculation so that when we go out to effect the free education scheme or any other policy, for that matter, we know what we have on hand. Also,whenever you feel that your right has been trampled upon, you can visit LASODA and we’ll take it up for you.”

ing. The doors and hinges are still intact.

But as one moves upstairs from the ground floor, the visitor is sure to be taken aback, and frightened by the look of the wobbly wooden staircase. Even thought the staircase has lost some steps, the thirst for adventure was more than the fear of risks for this report.

Undaunted by the risks of falling off or missing a step or two, he continued his exploit to the room of Bishop Samuel Ajayi Crowther, who wrote the first Yoruba Bible. In this room, one would find he first English Bible belonging to the first Anglican missionary to first land in Badagry, Rev Henry Townsend when he was invited by his friend Birch Freeman. The Bible is

sits side-by-side the Yoruba version translated

by Bishop Crowther.

From this room, one can see the house of the then Governor of the Colony and Southern Protectorate Lord Fredrick Luggard. The room seemed to be under construction, but Viavonu decried the slow pace of the work.

As one moves from the Bishop's room, the next room to it is that of Rev Gullmer. In it is the first bench used by the missionaries. On this floor are the Bible room where the missionaries stored their Bibles, and the safe room also has the first safe used by the missionaries in 1856. This was where they kept their money and other valuable items.

Location

Basaltic stone monolith have been found almost exclusively in the five villages of Nnams, Nselle, Abaanyom, Nde and Akaju, which are located in the middle of the Cross river area of Nigeria and who speak Bakor, a sub-dialect of the large linguistic group known as Ekoi or Ejagham. The monoliths were first discovered by Charles Partidge in 1905 in the Nnam Village of Alok but by 1968, Philip Allison had listed over fhundred mostly arranged in circles in abandoned villages.

According to Ekpo Eyo, monolith or Akwanshi stone can be found in cluster and some of them feature in their annual new yam festival which represents their dead ancestors more especially, legendary figures.

Monolith or Akwanshi stones are found in Cross River central upward to the northern part of the state. It has played a significant role in the life of the people, such as ancestral worship which protect and provide for the common man who believed in this ancestral cult. The stone has been distributed far beyond the area where it was first carved.

These monoliths became crafts for the people of Cross River State therefore provided a means of livelihood. Also, the stone carving became an important trade among them that is why they are found nearly every meeting point of the villages.

Just like other parts of the country such as Esie, Ife, Igbajo etc. who believed in stone carving that represent their ancestors, who provides and protects them at the time of difficulty.

Revisiting Badagry The ancient Badagry town is a famous tourist destination. SOLOMON ADEOLA, who visited the town, writes that some of its famed relics have gone seedy.

I

T takes over one hour’s drive from Badagry to some neighbouring West African countries. The town has not only become a business hub but also a major tourist destination.

Visitors from across the world are drawn by the historical wealth that the town has to offer.

Every corner of the town is full of history. One of such places of the historical wealth that never fails to attract tourists is the Nigeria's first storey building, overlooking the Badagry waterfront.

The ancient structure, which was built in 1845

by Rev Charles Andrew Gullmer, houses various historical relics that tell of the town's rich celebrated past. Sadly, this artefact is currently in a state of disrepair.

This abundance of historical relics in the building is testaments of the town's great heritage and the wealth that is scattered in the place.

Mr Ezekiel Viavonu, a tour guide at first-storey building, who took this reporter round the edifice, decried the dilapidated state it is in. He called for increased efforts to preserve national monuments."The state government should do more in caring for its national monument like this one. If they are properly renovated, and tourism is taking seriously, it would ignite the love for history and national heritage in the young," he said.

Despite the decay, the visit to the landmark building was an unforgettable one. Visitors would still find items used by the early missionaries and slave maters in the place.

There is the first Yoruba Bible, the first chair the

•The first storey building in Badagry

MONUMENT missionaries used, the volts containing old currencies, such as cowries, penny, shillings and kobo.

The place also contains historical apartments that would awaken the scholarly probe in any history student.

On the ground floor is the room of the first teacher in Nigeria, Mr Claudius Phillips (18451868), who established the first primary school in Nigeria - the Saint Thomas Primary School founded in 1845 with 40 students.

The room of Mr Philips' housekeepers is another interesting place. In the room are the corrugated iron sheets and the nails used the roof-

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

The Midweek Magazine Remembering the ‘Black Scorpion’

E-mail:- ozoluauhakheme@yahoo.com

CYAN’S ORB

The Good Lesson Series (1)

He was one of Nigeria’s Civil War heroes whose exploits hit the mythical realm. In death, he is being celebrated for his contribution to the peace and stability of the nation, Veterian Journalist OLOYE ’LEKAN ALABI writes in this tribute to the late Brigadier-General Benjamin Adesanya Maja Adekunle.

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HE family of the hero of the Nigeria Civil War, the late Brigadier-General Benjamin Adesanya Maja Adekunle (retired) has, in a full-page advertisement in The Nation on Sunday issue of September 13, announced the first memorial programme for the gentleman officer, who became famous worldwide while commanding the elite 3rd Marine Commando Division of the Nigerian Army during the Civil War (1967 1970). The four-day programme begins tomorrow.

The late Brigadier – General Adekunle, alias “Black Scorpion” was my hero, as he was to millions of Nigerians and foreigners alike, and besides was, with due respect, my older friend and guide. I admired and still admire, the professional soldier, sometimes brash when conditions demanded, though.

When the late hero died on September 13, last year, aged 77, following was the tribute, published in some national newspapers, written by me in honour and remembrance of the great soldier. May his valiant soul continue to rest in perfect peace. Amen.

“Nigeria’s civil war hero, Brigadier Benjamin Maja Adekunle, alias “Black Scorpion” died in Lagos, on Saturday 13, September, this year aged, 77 years. May his gallant soul rest in peace.

Amen.

“Typical of Nigeria’s opportunistic class, crocodile tears and absurd tributes will, and indeed have started, be pouring in torrents to the departed professional soldier and gentleman officer, nationalist and self-effacing hero. Genuine heartfelt condolences will be far and in between for the late retired Brigadier - General Adekunle.

“For a deserving citizen who had contributed so much to keep Nigeria a united country, clear the Lagos port during the self-inflicted, through government planlessness, congestion of the early 1970’s among other patriotic deeds, who was shamefully ignored, out of envy, pettiness and fickleness by successive governments, it is too late to now shed crocodile tears / pour hackneyed tributes to the “Black Scorpion”.

“In my rejoinder to a former Sunday Punch newspaper editor’s jaundiced and unfair comments on another nationalist, Nigeria’s first Federal Minister of Social Services and Natural Resources, prodigy and ebullient politician, the late Adegoke Adelabu, alias “Penkelemesi”, published in The Punch newspaper issue on Wednesday, 14 November, 2007 (page 13), I wrote inter alia: “Due to reasons that we all know very well, Adelabu and other nationalists in his hue (Adekunle Fajuyi, Aminu Kano, Eyo Ita, Adaka Boro, Mbonu Ojike, Benjamin Adekunle etc) are deprived of history’s fair treatment by an ungrateful country”. That was my comment on Nigeria’s ingratitude to Benjamin Adekunle seven years ago when he was still alive.

“In choosing a title for this tribune, I struggled with the above, “Don’t Cry for Him Nigeria” and Don’t Cry for Me, Nigeria”, a variant of the 1970’s chart buster, “Don’t Cry For Me Argentina”, dedicated to Isabella, the late wife of the also late Argentinean dictator, General Peron.

Why did I drop the Peron variant? One, Adekunle never begged Nigeria to honour or mourn him and unlike the Perons, Adekunle was a patriot and complete Nigerian, if one considers the fact that his father, Thomas Adekunle, was Yoruba, mother, Amina Theodora, a Bachama from Adamawa and first wife, Comfort Akie Wilcox, from Bonny.

“In my formative (teenage) years, Benjamin Adekunle was one of my heroes. Others were my late paternal grandmother, Mama Asmau Odunola, the women leader of the now defunct NCNC in Ibadan, under Adegoke Adelabu, Adelabu himself, Obafemi Awolowo, Samuel Ladoke Akintola, Alimi Adesokan, Muhammad Ali, Pele, ’Wole Soyinka, Emeka OdumegwuOjukwu and Yusuf Olatunji a.k.a “Baba L’egba”.

As seasons fell on themselves, the portfolio of my heroes/ role models grew, and may still grow when individuals display talent, integrity, patriotism and fairness.

“The Nigeria / Biafra civil war (1967 to Jan. 1970) threw up Brigadier Adekunle as a professional soldier, strategist and myth. I soaked up his warfare fame and made known to him, though letters, ad I did to Professor ’Wole Soyinka, while an untried political prisoner at the Kaduna Prison

I

TRIBUTE in 1967, courtesy of the retired General Yakubu Gowon – led Federal Military Government, my admiration of his (Adekunle) war exploits.

“In 1983, when I became a press secretary to the then governor of old Oyo State (present Oyo and Osun States) the late Chief ’Bola Ige and also to three military successors of Ige (retired Major – General Oladayo Popoola, retired Brigadier – General Adetunji Olurin and retired Brigadier – General Sasaniea Oresanya), the paths of the late Brigadier Adekunle and my humbleself crossed.

“Of our encounters, I recall here his courtesy visit to me in July 1999, sequel to my appointment as the Managing Director of Sketch Press Limited, Ibadan (although designated as coordinator) by the then newly – sworn in Alliance for Democracy (AD) governors of Oyo, Ogun, Ondo, Osun and Ekiti States. Before their election as governors though, Odua Investment Company Limited, owned by the five states named above, had been saddled by the five former military administrators of the states to oversee the affairs of Sketch. I was seconded from ODU’A in 1998, where I was the substantive Senior Manager, Corporate Affairs, to run the affairs of Sketch, pro bono, as Coordinator. Later, ODU’A conducted interviews for a new management for Sketch and I handled over to the new Managing Director, Mr. Biodun Oduwole.

“But, with the advent of civilian governments in Nigeria in May 1999, ODU’A states inclusive, the five governors of ODU’A states, as explained earlier, sacked the Sketch Board and Management, and asked me to take over the newspaper company’s affairs again – also pro bono. It was during my second coming, as it were, in the capacity as acting Managing Director of Sketch that the late Brigadier Adekunle sent his Personal Assistant to me to deliver his congratulatory message and book an appointment for a courtesy visit. On the chosen day of the visit; my guest in keeping with military tradition arrived the now defunct Sketch Press Limited office on Oba Adebimpe Road, Dugbe, Ibadan, some minutes earlier than the appointed time. The Sketch has since been demolished to give way to a shopping mall.

“I, with my management team, received him at the gate and led the late Brigadier – General Adekunle to the MD’s office on the last floor of the three – storey building. Protocol over, he asked me to tell him the circumstances that led to my appointment as the Coordinator of the Sketch Press Limited.

“I narrated the story to him and as I was about rounding off, he asked “Mr Coordinator, do you have a letter of appointment as the acting Managing Director of the Sketch from the governors?”

“I replied in the negative, as I was verbally appointed by the governors without even any mention of an allowance to me! Brigadier-General Adekunle shook his head and bellowed that I should head the following day of his visit, to the late Governor Lam Adesina of Oyo State (the ‘overseer’ of the Sketch Press Limited, to

•The late Brig-Gen. Adekunle (rtd)

obtain a “formal letter of authority (appointment”.

“He told me that his advice was based on his “bitter experience” as the emergency manager (actually Military Commandant) of the Lagos Port, Apapa, from where he was unceremoniously eased out, after cleaning the port (Cement armanda) congestion in the 1970s, after he had been recalled from the war front.

“Thank God, I heeded Brigadier Adekunle’s advice to demand and obtain a formal letter of appointment, among other words of wisdom (advice, if your prefer) that he gave freely to me.

“Sometime last year, his wife visited the late Aare Musulumi of Yoruba land, Alhaji Abdul Azeez Arisekola Alao, at his Oluwo, Ibadan home. I was present. She complained to Aare that her husband’s ONLY plot of land on one of the Oyo State Government’s Reserved Areas (GRA) in Ibadan, was about to be acquired or taken over. True to his kind nature, Alhaji Arisekola promised to make enquires about the acquisition threat. When Mrs. Adekunle visited the Aare again early this year on the land matter, I was also present.

“Alhaji Arisekola Alao had intervened on the late Brigadier-General Adekunle’s behalf on the premise that “heroes/patriots like General Adekunle should not be made to suffer over a plot of land which was legally acquired by him”.

“May the patriotic and kind souls of Alhaji Alao and Brigadier-General Adekunle rest in peace.

Amen. In concluding this tribute, I admonish political leaders and public officers to honour our heroes/patriots in their lifetime. Please put an end to the insultive posthumous ‘oju aye’ (belated and filthy) awards / tributes.

“A word for our youth, please borrow the “I can – do” attitude of the late Brigadier-General Adekunle, who as a nine – year old in 1945, upon the death of his father, ‘Strengthened my resolve to take matters into my own hands. I resolved to leave home and look for someone to serve, in exchange for educational support”. He ran away from his family’s home in Jos, roamed the streets for several days before finding his way to the home of Reverend Ayiogu whom he (Adekunle) persuaded to employ him (Adekunle) as a domestic servant on a salary of one shilling and six pence a month.

“Please don’t cry now, Nigeria, for Adekunle. It is too late. May the valiant soul of this great soldier and selfless nationalist rest in peace. Amen.”

•Oloye Alabi is the Aare Alaasa Olubadan of Ibadanland.

Museums Commission celebrates at 70

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HE National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM) is rolling out the drum to celebrate its 70th anniversary.

Its Director-General, Mallam Yusuf Abdallah told art reporters in Lagos, that the commission’s anniversary is worthy of celebration because of its achievements these past years.

In this dispensation of change, Abdallah told ill not embark on extravagant spending rather it will be a purposeful one as objectives to be executed have been spelt out by the body.

“In the spirit of the time and mood of the new government, you will certainly agree with me that 70 years of any organisation is long and worthy of celebration. However, the purpose of this celebration isn’t to embark on wild celebration or jubilation much as the occasion calls for merry making. The anniversary is carefully planned to serve diverse objectives,” he said.

The celebration will feature an exhibition at the National Museum, Lagos. Seventy iconic objects are to be chosen from Nigerian art

By Francis Abidoye

CELEBRATION traditions - Dafuna, Nok, Ejagham, Calabar, Igbo Ukwu, Ife, Esie, Owo, Tada, Benin as well as other living arts in the country. It is aimed at illustrating the journey of museum movement in Nigeria; extracting the similarities from the differences embedded in Nigerian art thereby promulgating unity.

There will also be the unveiling of a research journal, entitled: Museum at 70 in Nigeria: sustainability and challenge; publication on museums, monuments and other heritage sites of Nigeria. There will also be an art competition involving selected schools at the National Museum, Esie, Kwara State to promote the appreciation of art among the upcoming generation.

NCMM 70th anniversary will end with a gala night to appreciate friends, mentors, benefactors and staff of the commission at Abuja.

F you’ve been following my posts, you’ll know that I detest housework – totally, thoroughly Cyan Frank-Hanachor detest it! I dread the scionofpapyrus@gmail.com.

Tel: 08134283539 thought of slaving over a hot stove and making sure the food comes out all tasty and well-cooked!

I never had and enjoy saying it loud and clear to anyone who’d listen - a certain freedom comes from knowing this about myself !

I’ve never liked hearing about the “ fine” art you need to master to get your husband to love you as he should,how wonderful it is to win your way to your husband’s heart through his stomach, the wily schemes to be deployed to hold his attention - those tiny,little shits,those silly crazies that say they’re wives assume once they’re married!

I’ve seen too many of these subservient women continue slogging it out at their wifely roles till they fall over dead - over the hot pot of stewed catfish fresh from the salt lake, just off the Apapa marina with just the right temperature! And guess what? Bobo, the overly pampered, thoroughly spoiled brat,only mourns for a scant five months amidst a bevy of helplessly attentive, young, shapely sistahs!

After reassuring himself that he has sufficiently mourned your demise to maintain a modicum of piety while swearing in secret not to be caught in ‘that’ trap ever again, he nudges the most well-paid, homely but sexy ”scratch” that’s attractive enough to make his mates drool and start thinking of throttling that fattened ”cow” whose only redeeming trait is that she’s being conditioned to hand over her very fat pay cheque once it’s issued each month, prepares the best Oha soup this side of the Niger to titillate his jaded palate,knows a wide array of delicacies from the North to Southern Cameroons were those peppers are coming from - dummy,not “sombo”,Cameroon peppers!,knows how many dollars goes into a well-cut designer suit and knows to call Gboye,your best mate, to fill out the order for the latest ”aso-ebi” ! I hope that’s what they still call them things!

The neurotic ass brags to his mates at how “She knows how moody I get after a hard day’s job and knows better than to act the nocturnal sleuth about my perpetual fib of hanging out with the boys and because she knows how maudlin I get after funerals, assumes the comic role of ”mother hen” by asking her young, nubile p.a to get me home safely”!

Truth is I’ve seen plenty of those sick idiots on the job! They’re rich in their own right, well connected because they have come from ”that” background, straight out of school they got a well-paid job, always impeccably dressed, a bit over-weight - food was never a problem growing up!

With all of these going for them ,they have a giant-sized, low self-esteem that the guys - those slim, well-built guys,”that I absolutely must have! “ and made girls swoon back in college have nurtured, slyly and wickedly, passing you from the light-skinned toned dude to that darkskinned bobo, so broke, you even had to get him to floss properly to pass muster when ”my big cousin from A.B.U visited”!

Expertly,they whittled away at your self-esteem until when you latched on to this handsome, young dude with nothing to his name but the compound appellation you concocted yourself! You were quick to assume the responsibility of running the family after all ”no more runs and we mustn’t be seen to have married beneath us”, at the next family reunion!

That witch,” my cousin with the neat figure up yours! I beat you to it!I made it to the altar before you!”

There’re a trillion different women holding the purse till tomorrow; conditioned by the louse they married and cliques of happening chicks who trailed them from their courtship, through the bachelorette party and their marriage with tales spiced with snide comments of ”see how that zombie stood back and did nothing when that bimbo that doesn’t even have a job, stole her handsome, hubby right from under her nose!”

•To be continued

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

BUSINESS EXTRA PZ Cussons shareholders get N2.4b dividends • Group’s turnover reaches N73.1b

P • From left: Chief Financial Officer, PZ Cussons, Mr David Petzer; Chief Executive Officer, Mr Christos Giannopoulos; Dr. Jamodu and Mr Company Secretary, Rotimi Slade during the AGM in Calabar....yesterday.

PHOTO: UYOATTA ESHIET

Govt releases N139b 1st quarter capital allocation to MDAs

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INISTRIES Departments and Agencies (MDAs) have got N139,265,641,362 for the execution of capital projects in the first quarter.

The letter “1st Quarter Development Fund General Warrant No. 01/2015” from the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Finance, Mrs. Anastasia DanielNwaobia, authorised the Accountant General of the Federation (AGF) to release the money to the MDAs. The AGF was “authorized and required to pay from the Consolidated Revenue Fund of the Federal Government of Nigeria such monies as are necessary for carrying on the services of Government of the Federation at a level not exceeding the amount showing against, the expenditure items indicated in the schedule in the subsequent pages of this Development Fund General

From Nduka Chiejina, Abuja

Warrant for a grand total sum of N139,265,641,362 (One hundred and thirty nine billion, two hundred and sixty-five million, six hundred and forty - one thousand, three hundred and sixty-two naira) only for the period of the first quarter ending March, 2015.”

Mrs Daniel-Nwaobia also instructed the AGF that “this total amount being released from consolidated Revenue Fund is inclusive of the sum of N12,500,000,000 (Twelve billion, five hundred million naira only) released to 2015 Zonal/Constituency Projects and N12,500,000,000 (Twelve billion, five hundred million) only released to 2014 constituency/intervention projects.”

In addition, the Development Fund General Warrant also authorised Officers controlling expenditure votes to “incur expenditure under the

Heads and Sub-heads under their control up to the limit against the expenditure item shown on the subsequent pages to this Development Fund General Warrant for the period of the First Quarter ending March, 2015.”

With this warrant authorising the release of funds to MDAs, execution of capital projects can now commence. The delay in the release of the 2015 capital allocation has resulted in many workers in the construction industry being laid off.

The National Assembly passed the 2015 budget on April 28, with an expenditure outlay of N4.493 trillion, up from the N4.425 trillion proposed by the Executive.

Former President Goodluck Jonathan signed the budget early May 2015, but politicking and handing over preparations stalled the implemen-

tation of the budget before President Muhammadu Buhari assumed office.

The National Assembly, when it passed the budget, slightly reduced the N2,607,601, 000,300 proposed by the Executive to N2.607,132,491,708 as recurrent expenditure and also reduced the capital expenditure from N642,848,999,699 estimated in the proposal to N556,995,465,449.

The budget also put fiscal deficit at N1.075 trillion; N953 billion for debt service and N375.6 billion as statutory transfers.

The 2016 budget, The Nation learnt, will be very tight as there are plans to further reduce recurrent expenditure in all MDAs. One ministry considered to be one of light money spenders has been pencilled down among others to shed N50 million from its recurrent expenditure in 2016.

Buhari urges Reps to increase Diaspora Bond to $300m P R E S I D E N T Muhammadu Buhari yesterday requested the House of Representatives to approve an increase in the amount to be raised through the Diaspora Bond from the International Capital Market from $100 million to $300million.

According to Buhari, the Senate in the 7th Assembly approved the request which emanated from former President Goodluck Jonathan’s regime, but the House did not.

“Without the resolution authorising the increase in the proposed issuance to $300 million, Nigeria would be constrained by our own laws and the requirements of International Capital Market (including the regulations of the audited States’s Security and Exchange Commission)

From Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi, Abuja

to issue only $100 million,” he said.

The letter addressed to Speaker Yakubu Dogara further reads: “The Honourable Speaker may wish to recall that the Federal Government in its efforts to mobilise capital to finance critical infrastructure while diversifying its funding sources and encouraging the Nigerian Diaspora to contribute to the development of the economy through investment in Capital Projects in priority sectors of the economy, sought and obtained the approval of the National

Assembly (NASS) in March, 2013 to issue a $100 million Diaspora Bond to Nigerians in Diaspora.

“In furtherance of this development and in conformity with the law, the former president approved and submitted a request to the two chambers of the NASS in December 2013 for an increase in the issuance amount from $100 million to $300 million.”

Buhari said the request to the NASS was in line with Section 21(1) of the Debt Management Office (Establishment etc) Act 2003, which he quoted as stating that “No external loan shall be approved or obtained by the Minister unless its

terms and conditions shall have been laid before the National Assembly and approved by its resolution.”

The president reiterated the three reasons given the 7th NASS for an increase to $300million which he said are: “The huge amount of capital needed to abridge the infrastructural gap thereby supporting growth and development; the need to optimise the cost of issuance relative to the amount proposed to be raised, since the some costs, such as marketing expenses, fees to some transaction parties and the preparation of a prospectus will be the same, regardless of the amount issued; and the high interest being shown by the a Nigerian Diaspora in the proposed bond.”

Z Cussons Nigeria Plc will pay N2.422 billion as dividends to its shareholders. This follows the approval granted its board by its shareholders.

At its 67th Annual General Meeting (AGM) which took place at the Transcorp Hotels, Calabar, Cross River State yesterday, its Group Chairman, Chief (Dr) Kola Jamodu said the amount which translates to 61 Kobo per share is the final dividends payout for operations for the year ended May 31, 2015.

According to him, this is in addition to N794 million interim dividend payout which translated to 20 Kobo per share earlier paid in March bringing the total dividend payout for this year to 81 Kobo per share.

In his speech to shareholders, Jamodu said desspite the adverse economic condition including increasing competition, turnover grew to N73.1billion from N72.9 billion, adding that profit before taxation dropped by 5.7 percent compared to the previous year. He blamed this drop on significant exchange loses that were included due to the devaluation of the naira during the year under review.

From Uyoatta Eshiet, Uyo

He said in spite of the tough operating environment, the company performed satisfactorily when compared to its competitors in the sector.

He said the business is optimistic about the future with stable political environment and assured shareholders that optimisation of supply chain process will continue to improve in operational efficiencies.

He said: “The company will continue to invest in its core brands and growth categories.

“It will pursue its initiative of consumer lead organisation leading to consumer relevant innovations and offerings with vigour.”

He thanked the workers and assured them that the company will continue to invest in leadership training programmes to develop capacities. He also thanked share holders for their support and confidence in the board and management.

On Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Jamodu assured communities where the company operates that it will continue to support them through the PZ Foundation.

Economy in doldrums, says NACCIMA

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IGERIAN Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) has said the economy has performed below expectations.

It blamed the parlous state of the economy on the absence of policy thrust of the current administration.

Its President, Chief Bassey Edem who spoke yesterday in Lagos to reporters on the State of the Economy, urged the government to show leadership in policy direction to drive the economy.

He said: “While we appreciate the enormity of the task inherited by the new administration and its effort in ensuring that the economy is re-engineered to meet up with the yearnings of the business community, it is important to note that what an average Nigerian desire at the moment is for the ‘Change’ they voted for to be translated into significant positive impact on the real sector and the economy in general.”

On macro-economic indicators, Edem lamented the

By Okwy Iroegbu-Chikezie

decline of the external reserves to $30.63 billion from $31.20 billion while interest rate remained at double digit of between 17 per cent and 28 per cent as against a single digit rate expected by business operators.

He said this remains a major challenge to the business community and predicted that it may continue as long as the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) retains its policies.

He advised government to revisit and also consider the need to bring down the rate to a single digit, which will automatically force down the lending rates.

According to him, capacity utilisation in the real sector continued to hover around 45 per cent showing huge unutilised capacities. However, he maintained the real sector is still grappling with infrastructure deficit such as insufficient power and energy supply that could make it assume its position as the engine of economic growth.

NPA pays stevedoring firms N500m to avert labour crisis

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HE Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has paid N500million to stevedoring companies to pay salaries and wages of their workers, it was gathered yesterday.

The Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) had threatened to shut down seaports next week Monday, if the NPA failed to pay six months outstanding salary arrears to its members.

Its President-General, Mr Tony Nted said the workers, including tally clerks and on-

By Oluwakemi Dauda

board security men were aggrieved over the unpaid salaries.

It was also gatherd that the money was paid by the NPA after a meeting held at the Federal Ministry of Labour and Productivity in July this year, to resolve the issue when the dock workers threatened to down tools.

Aditional payment to the steveoring companies, sources close to NPA said, was undergoing internal

processing before it was caught up by the Treasury Single Account (TSA) deadline of September 16, by the Federal Government.

Contacted, its General Manager Public Affairs, Capt Iheanacho Ebubeogu said NPA, as a law abiding corporate organisation has not reneged on the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) it singned with labour in July.

“Well, the attention of the management of NPA has been drawn to a publication by vari-

ous media on the threat by labour to go on strike from Monday October 5, predicated on the premise that NPA has reneged on payment of the stevedoring contractual sum, from where invariably, the wages and salaries of the dick workers are paid by their employer “We need to clarify at this juncture that these tally are employees of the stevedoring companies who ordinarily have direct obligations to pay their workers and not the NPA “We agree that there were

delay in fulfilling our obligations to these labour contractors who are the stevedores because the issue of clarification and validation came up early in the year.

“However, this was concluded at a meeting held at the Federal ministry of Labour and productivity in July this year, to resolve the issue when the labour threatened to down tools At this meeting mode of payment was agreed upon in a Memorandum of Understanding ( MoU).

“The NPA followed the process in compliance with the terms as stated in the MoU singned “We wish to state also that all payment that have been dully processed and amounting t o over half a billion naira has been paid to the stevedoring companies.

“We wish to also state that additional payment undergoing internal processing were caught up by the Treasury Single Account (TSA) deadline of September 16,” the image maker said.

46

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

EQUITIES NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE

DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 29-09-15

DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 29-09-15

384 capital market operators scale recapitalisation hurdle

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N the eve of the Septem ber 30, 2015 deadline for the new minimum capital base for capital market operators, a total of 384 capital market operators have fully complied with the new minimum capital requirements for their various functions while 48 others were undergoing the process of either merger, reclassification or reduction of their functions.

An update provided by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) by the close of business yesterday, indicated that 384 firms including stockbrokers, law firms, auditors, registrars, receiving banks, investment advisers and trustees among others have met the new minimum capital requirements.

The list was however silent on the total number of capital market operators and the list of operators that have not met the required capital for their functions.

Among the operators wellknown capital market operators that retained all their registered functions included GTI

•48 others under processing

By Taofik Salako Capital Market Editor

Capital Limited, issuing house; GTI Securities, broker/dealer; Capital Assets, broker/dealer, issuing house and fund/portfolio manager; Cowry Asset Management Limited, venture capital manager, corporate investment adviser and issuing house and Cowry Securities Limited, which retained its dual functions as a broker/dealer.

Also, all members of Meristem Group retained their functions including Meristem Registrars, Meristem Securities, Meristem Stockbrokers, Meristem Trustee and Meristem Wealth Management Limited.

Other operators included Access Bank, Africa Prudential Registrars, Afrinvest West Africa Group, Akintola Williams Deloitte, APT Securities And Funds, Capital Bancorp, Chapel Hill Denham Management Group, Citi Bank Nigeria, Diamond Bank, Ecobank Nigeria, FBN Capital, FCMB, Fidelity

Bank, First Bank of Nigeria, Flobal Trust, FSDH Group, Guaranty Trust Bank, Heritage Bank, JAIZ Bank, Lotus Capital, Phillips Consulting Ltd, Pricewaterhouse Coopers, Rand Merchant Bank Nigeria, Skye Bank, Stanbic IBTC Group, Standard Chartered Bank, Sterling Bank, Trust Yields Securities, United Bank for Africa, Union Bank of Nigeria, United Capital Group, Unity Bank, Vetiva Capital Management Group, Wema Bank and Zenith Bank Plc among others. The full list of compliant operators is available on SEC’s website.

Operators that were in the process of merger included Bytofel Trust And Investment Ltd, Covenant Securities & Asset Management Ltd, Cradle Trust Finance & Securities Ltd, Crown Capital Ltd, Dsu Brokerage Services Ltd, Enterprise Stockbrokers Plc, Excel Securities Ltd, First Stockbrokers Ltd, PML Securities Ltd, Summa Guaranty & Trust Company Ltd, Vision Trust & Investment Ltd and Strand Capital Partners Ltd

DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 29-09-15

THE N

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

47

MONEYLINK

NDIC pays N6.8b to 528,277 failed banks’ depositors

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HE Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) says it has paid a cumulative N6.831 billion insured deposits to 528,277 depositors of 49 closed Deposit Money Banks (DMBs) as at December 31last year.

Its Managing Director, Alhaji Umaru Ibrahim, who spoke yesterday at NDIC Special Day at the on-going Abuja International Trade Fair said the payment, which was in line with the Act establishing NDIC, was also to ensure that un-insured depositors of closed DMBs recovered their money.

According to him, NDIC has paid a cumulative liquidation dividend of N94.737 billion to 250,592 to un-insured depositors of same 49 closed DMBs as at December last year.

He said NDIC had declared in full, a final liquidation dividend of 100 per cent of total payments in 14 of the failed banks out of the 49 closed

DMBs. He explained that payments were on-going for the depositors of Micro Finance Banks (MfBs) and Primary Mortgage Banks(PMBs), stressing that prompt payment of the insured sum was designed to reduce the impact of bank failure and build public confidence.

Ibrahim said the participation of NDIC at the fair also provided a unique platform for public awareness on the benefits and limitations of Deposit Insurance Scheme (DIS) in Nigeria.

He explained that the DIS was one of the financial safety nets in the economic system designed to protect uninformed bank depositors and ensure safety, soundness and stability of the banking system.

According to him, in the event of any bank failure, each depositor was entitled to a

maximum claim of N500,000 per depositor of DMB and non-interest or Islamic banks.

For MfB and PMB, he said each depositor was entitled to receive N200,000 in the event of any failure from the banks.

He added that the insured sums covered over 90 per cent of bank depositors.

Ibrahim said depositors with claims above the insured sums were entitled to liquidation dividends from the proceeds of sale of the physical assets and recovery of debts owed to such failed banks.

He noted that the theme of the Fiar--Entrepreneurship as a panacea for economic growth, would drive greater business opportunities and promote financial empowerment.

He said the fair would open up new avenues for industrial development and ultimately improve the life of Nigerians.

The NDIC chief said in a bid to send strong signal to bank

CBN sells T-bills for N53b as naira weakens

T •CBN Governor Emefiele

Godwin

operators against unethical practices in the banking system, NDIC was conducting riskbased supervision.

He said the supervision, in collaboration with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), had led to the supervision of the 22 DMBs, 882MfBs and 61PMBs in the country.

Ibrahim called on Nigerians whose deposits were trapped in failed banks to visit NDIC pavilion at the trade fair to receive information on how to recover and claim their deposits.

JP Morgan index drops 50% Nigerian bonds today

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ALF the Nigerian bonds listed on JP Morgan’s emerging markets bond index (GBI-EM) will be removed today and the rest next month, the U.S. bank said yesterday.

According to Reuters, the decision, which means investment funds tracking the index, will sell Nigerian bonds, adds to upward pressure on national borrowing costs from a sharp drop in oil revenues.

JP Morgan said this month it would drop Africa’s largest economy from its index, citing a lack of liquidity and

By Collins Nweze

currency restrictions.

The bank said it a notes 50 per cent of bonds will be removed as of September 30, part of its month-end index rebalancing, cutting Nigeria’s weight to 0.79 per cent. The weight of Brazil and South Africa will increase by 0.80 per cent and 0.20 per cent respectively.

In 2012, Nigeria became the second African country after South Africa to be listed in the index with a weight of 1.8 per cent. The estimated yield for Nigeria bonds on the index

was quoted at 14.83 per cent as of Sept. 25, marking the second highest yield after Brazil at 15.75 per cent, the bank said.

Analysts said they expected bond yields to trade flat after the removal today because domestic buyers have stepped in since foreigners left the market.

Yields on government bond spiked this month on the news of the index removal with the 10-year benchmark debt rising to as much as 16.68 percent, prompting the bond market regulator to widen spreads to calm volatility.

One European asset manager told Reuters in Lagos his fund was still interested in naira debt despite the index expulsion but would buy only if the yield rose to around 20 per cent, to compensate for currency risk.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), trying to stop the naira’s slide, has pegged its rate against the dollar, turning inter-bank trading into a one-way quote market whose lack of transparency has upset investors. JP Morgan said Nigeria would not be eligible for re-inclusion in the index for a minimum of 12 months.

Use ECOWAS liberalisation to boost economy, Fed Govt HE Federal Governurges OPS be fine tuned to align with the ment urged the economic direction of the

T

organised private sector (OPS) to use the opportunities offered by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to bolster the economic fortune of the country and de-emphasise dependence of oil revenue to survive.

Speaking when he led a delegation of the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs on a courtesy visit to governor

From Kolade Adeyemi, Kano

Abdullahi Umar Ganduje at Kano Government House yesterday, a Director in the ministry, ambassador Saleh Basiga said the OPS had underutilised the leverage of the ECOWAS liberalisation scheme to the advantage of the economy.

According to him, Nigeria as an influential economic super power in Africa stood the chance of exploiting the

Elumelu gets entrepreneurship HAIRMAN, UBA Plc, recognition

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Tony O. Elumelu’s passion for promoting entrepreneurship on the continent as well as providing support for the creative arts industry has received global commendation as he was honoured in New York and South Africa.

In New York, he was named the “Africa Business Leader of the Year” at the 8th annual Ai CEO Investment Summit and awards that took place at Thomson Reuters on the eve of the UN General Assembly meeting.

In South Africa, he was given a special award as the Honorary counsel for the African movie academy in recognition of his support for the African creative industry, at the African Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) held at Mandela Bay, Port Elizabeth, South Africa.

This is the second time Elumelu is winning the “Africa Business Leader of the

Year” award, which he first won in 2006 as the Group Managing Director/CEO of UBA Plc. He emerged winner this year from a strong nominee list of notable business leaders in the continent including James Mwangi, CEO Equity Bank, Kenya; Aliko Dangote, Chairman, Dangote Group; Brian Joffe, CEO, Bidvest Group, South Africa; Strive Masiyiwa, Chairman and Founder Econet; Patrice Motsepe, Founder and Chairman of African Rainbow Minerals, South Africa; Christo Wiese, South Africa’s retail tycoon and owner of Shoprite; Chris Kirubi, Chairman of Centum Investment Company Limited, Kenya; Reginald Mengi, Executive Chairman and owner IPP Limited, Tanzania and Sudhir Ruparelia, Chairman, Ruparelia Group, Uganda.

scheme to bolster its economy in the face of the appalling slump in the price of oil, adding that over the years, the OPS is yet to embrace the scheme with vigour.

While describing Kano as an important business hub in the West African sub-region, Basiga, however, said the delegation was in the ancient city for sensitisation mission aimed at making stakeholders in the economy to understand the good intention of the Federal Government.

In his response, Governor Ganduje said the status of Nigeria as an influential economic super power in the subregion dating back to the Trans Saharan trade needed to

ECOWAS liberalisation scheme.

He added that Kano as a commercial nerve centre had a spectacular role to play in that direction.

According to him, Nigerian markets were currently facing a serious challenge as a result of the infiltration of Chinese products in major markets stressing that the liberalisation scheme would be of good advantage ECOWAS member-states.

He urged the OPS to fully cooperate with the Federal Government in achieving the desired objective, stressing, however, that the spectre of youth unemployment could be drastically reduced with the scheme reaching fruition.

HE Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) yesterday sold N53.08 billion worth of treasury bills in a bid to mop up excess liquidity. The naira also weakened on stronger demand from importers. The regulator issued the 275-day open market operations (OMO) bills at 13.50 per cent, dealers said.

The interbank lending rate traded at six per cent for overnight placement, almost unchanged from Monday’s 5.83 per cent.

The interbank market almost froze two weeks ago after authorities ordered banks to transfer all government revenues to its Treasury Single Account (TSA) with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

To ease liquidity shortages, the apex bank cut banks’ cash reserve ratio (CRR) to 25 per cent last week. “The market is active now because of higher liquidity from budget allocations and repaid matured treasury bills,” another dealer said.

The naira weakened against

the dollar on the parallel market to 224.5 to the dollar from 223 a dollar the previous day on strong demand from importers stocking up ahead of forthcoming Christmas sales.

“We are seeing a renewed pressure on the naira from some importers stocking ahead for the coming Christmas sales and some people converting their naira to dollar,” Aminu Gwadabe president of Bureau de Change operators, said.

Nigerian importers have struggled to obtain dollars as the CBN has limited imports to offset a collapse in oil revenues, the economic lifeline of Africa’s most populous country and biggest energy producer.

Gwadabe said speculation that government plans to change the colour of banknotes to stop forgeries could be another reason for the fresh pressure on the local currency.

The naira traded at 197 naira to the dollar on the official interbank market, unchanged since February.

Union Bank supports Light Camera Africa

U

NION Bank Plc has announced its support for this year’s Lights, Camera, Africa initiative.

It said it is the main sponsor of the film festival which begins today in Lagos, adding it is supporting the event for the second year.

The Lights, Camera, Africa Film Festival was created to stimulate discourse on issues and experiences that are rooted in the African art industry. It is currently in its fifth year and the major objective is to share a diverse range of African and independent cinema including documentary, feature, animation and giving support to the work of emerging African film makers.

The star attraction at this year’s festival is the documentary film “Faaji Agba” by film-maker Remi Vaughan-Richards.

“FaajiAgba” documents the experience of KunleTejuosho who sets out to record old time master musicians including Fatai Rolling Dollar, Alaba Pedro, SF Olowookere and Sina Ayinde Bakare in an effort to showcase and preserve their historical influence and musical styles. The movie tracks their journey

over a six year period and is a funny, sobering and highly entertaining preservation of an important part of the Yoruba and Nigerian culture.

According to the Head, Corporate Affairs & Communications, Ms. Ogochukwu EkezieEkaidem, “Union Bank is proud to once again partner with the organisers of the Lights, Camera, Africa film festival for the second year running. Supporting the arts is a focus area for Union Bank especially projects that promote Nigeria and its culture and history. The Lights, Camera, Africa festival is a showcase for Nigerian and African filmmakers who are telling their own stories.

This is very important to us as a bank with a strong Nigeria heritage.”

Ms. Ekezie-Ekaidem also highlighted the fact that the festival was free and encouraged members of the public to take advantage of this cultural event.

The festival ends October 5 and will include a host of activities in addition to movie screenings including workshops, panel discussions, and familyfriendly activities.

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

NEWS Tribunal upholds Olujimi’s victory From Odunayo Ogunmola, Ado-Ekiti

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HE Election Petitions Tribunal sitting in Ado-Ekiti, the Ekiti State capital, yesterday upheld the victory of the Deputy Senate Minority Whip, Senator Abiodun Olujimi.

Mrs. Olujimi, of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), was declared winner of the Ekiti South senatorial seat in the March 28 National Assembly poll conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Her return was challenged by the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Anthony Adeniyi, on the grounds that the first respondent (Olujimi) was a public officer at the time she contested the election.

Adeniyi claimed that Mrs. Olujimi did not resign as a commissioner on the board of the Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC) within the constitutional provision of at least 30 days before election.

He urged the tribunal to determine that the senator was not duly elected and that he be declared winner.

In the judgment delivered by a member of the three-man panel, Justice P.A. Obayi, the tribunal took judicious notice of the first petitioner’s testimony that the election was free, fair and credible.

The tribunal said evidence showed that Mrs. Olujimi, a non-executive member of the NCC board on part-time basis, was not employed in the public service as claimed by the first petitioner.

The jury held that the PDP senator was not a public servant as envisaged in the First Schedule of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

“The petition lacks merit and it is accordingly dismissed”, Justice Obayi concluded.

Lagos screens intending pilgrims

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HE Lagos State government yesterday began screening intending pilgrims at the Chapel of Christ the Light in Alausa, Ikeja.

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs, Mrs. Grace Oladimeji, said the screening would help the government get the pilgrims’ health status and ascertain their fitness.

She added that the screening would also help health officials, who will be attending to the pilgrims in Jerusalem.

By Olatunde Odebiyi

Mrs. Oladimeji said early detection of any health issue would make treatment easier.

“The intending pilgrims will be subjected to spiritual screening so that we can know if they are genuine and practising Christians.”

The Executive Secretary of the State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board, Mrs. Olayinka Oye-Bamgbose, urged the pilgrims to guard themselves prayerfully.

Sunmonnu’s election upheld From Tayo Johnson and Sikiru Akinola, Ibadan

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HERE was jubilation in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, yesterday as the National Assembly election petition tribunal affirmed the election of Mrs. Monsurat Sunmonnu of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the senator representing Oyo Central.

Accord’s Oyebisi Ilaka urged the tribunal to remove Mrs. Sunmonnu and declare him winner.

He alleged that there was massive rigging, over-voting, illegal thumb printing and non-compliance with the Electoral Act. The tribunal chairman, Justice J.G Abundaga, dismissed the petition on the grounds that the petitioner failed to present substantial evidence to support his petition.

According to Justice Abundaga, the petitioner failed to bring any evidence to back his claim on dual citizenship while the first respondent brought two witnesses to testify that she is an indigene of Oyo town.

Jubilation erupted within and outside the court as Justice Abundaga dismissed the petition and upheld the election that brought in the former speaker of the State Assembly.

“God gave me victory. I have never doubted my God because He is a merciful God. Nobody can upturn the victory God has given me. I will advise the opposition to accept defeat and shun politics of hatred,” Mrs. Sunmonnu said.

Ground rent for kiosk owners

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HE Ekiti State government has put owners of kiosks, stalls and counters on notice ahead of impending taxes to be imposed on them to boost the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).

It has also given owners of kiosks “illegally erected” at the Fayose Market in AdoEkiti, a two-week ultimatum to remove them.

Commissioner for Lands, Housing and Urban Development Taelolu Otitoju said the government would soon begin collection of “ground rent” on temporary and permanent structures erected by

From Odunayo Ogunmola, Ado-Ekiti

kiosk owners.

He said the collection of the rent was one of the measures aimed at increasing the IGR. Otitoju added that arrangements had been concluded to build four additional blocks of 40 lock-up shops at the Fayose market.

The commissioner reiterated the administration’s determination to improve the IGR, adding that the focus was to boost government’s capability to deliver more to the people.

•Military pensioners supporting the ongoing anti-corruption war of President Muhammadu Buhari and calling for the payment of their pension arrears at the entrance of the Governor’s Office , Alausa Secretariat, Ikeja...yesterday PHOTO:OMOSEHIN MOSES

Police arraign man for ‘defaming’ Amosun’s wife T

HE police in Ogun State have arraigned Emmanuel Ojo Adediran in a Magistrate’s Court at Abeokuta for allegedly defaming Governor Ibikunle Amosun’s wife, Olufunso, on social media.

Adediran, who pleaded not guilty to the eight-count charge, was granted a bail of N1million by Chief Magistrate Anthony Araba.

Adediran was arrested last Saturday at Ibara, Abeokuta, the state capital, after formal complaints were lodged with the police and the Department of State Service (DSS) by the government.

Adediran was accused of disseminating on social media, false news with intent to malign Mrs. Amosun and punishable under Section 516 of the Criminal Code Laws

•SSG: Amosun didn’t order his arrest

From Ernest Nwokolo, Abeokuta and Jeremiah Oke, Ibadan

of Ogun State (2006).

The offence was said to have been committed on his Facebook account, alleging that Mrs. Amosun was arrested in London for money laundering.

Adediran was also accused of assaulting a police officer, Katibi Biliamin, with intention to resist or prevent lawful arrest.

Secretary to the State Government (SSG) Taiwo Adeoluwa yesterday denied that the governor ordered Adediran’s arrest.

Adeoluwa said the governor was in Saudi Arabia for Hajj when the story broke.

The SSG represented the governor at the Independence lecture tagged: Nigeria @ 55: The pains, gains and prospect at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) secretariat, Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

He said the report was unfair to the governor.

According to him, the government reported the case to the police.

Adeoluwa said the police were professional and the governor could not intervene in their investigation.

“Governor Amosun has just returned to Nigeria from Saudi Arabia and some newspapers yesterday published a story that the governor ordered a blogger’s arrest.

“I can say authoritatively that the governor did not order anyone’s arrest. We know we are vulnerable to all forms of allegations as a government but we have to carry the police along no matter what.

“We thought it was a story we could ignore but we have to react when some papers began to celebrate the story.

“It is extremely unfair for any newspaper to publish such story without thorough investigation. It is unfair to the profession. Such story is unfair to the governor and it is unfair to Ogun people.”

Lagos Assembly sets up screening committee

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HE Lagos State House of Assembly has constituted a committee to scrutinise the list of commissioner-nominees of Governor Akinwunmi Ambode before presenting it to the House for screening.

This would delay the government’s plan to inaugurate the executive council on October 5.

The House has adjoined till October 13, which means the committee cannot submit its report earlier than October13.

•To submit report on Oct 13

By Oziegbe Okoeki

The committee to be chaired by the Deputy Speaker, Eshilokun-Sanni Wasiu, has 14 other lawmakers as members.

They are: Chief Whip Rotimi Abiru; Deputy Majority Leader Olumuyiwa Jimoh; Deputy Whip Omotayo Oduntan; Minority Leader Akeem Bello.

Others are: Oluwasegun Akande; Folajinmi Mohammed; Dayo Fafunmi; Oladele Adekanye; Layode Olanrewaju; Segun Olulade; Rotimi Olowo; Bisi Yusuf; Oluyinka Ogundimu and Lanre Ogunyemi.

This move is a new development and negates the practice of screening the nominees without subjecting them to scrutiny by a committee.

Responding to questions, a

member of the committee, Olulade, said the committee would enable proper screening of the nominees.

“It will give the House the opportunity to do its job thoroughly. The committee would have the opportunity to go deeper,” he said.

Olulade added that it would be tiring to screen all the 37 nominees at once since “it would get to a stage where lawmakers would simply ask nominees to take a bow and leave”.

Ajimobi, Ladoja return to tribunal today

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ORMER Oyo State Governor Rashidi Ladoja and Governor Abiola Ajimobi will return to the governorship election tribunal today to finalise their arguments on the petition filed

by Ladoja.

The tribunal, in August, fixed today for adoption of final addresses after the parties presented evidences and witnesses to prove their claims.

The three-man panel is headed by Justice Muhammad Aliu Maiyaki, with justices Muhammad Karaye and J.E.Ikede as members.

Counsel to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Yusuf Alli con-

From Bisi Oladele, Ibadan

cluded the hearing. In closing his argument, he told the tribunal that there was no need for his client to call any witness because the original INEC documents were enough evidence to the fact that elections were held contrary to the petition brought

by Ladoja and his party, Accord.

Alli added that all the original documents admitted as exhibits before the panel were testimonies that that results garnered by parties and their candidates were recorded accurately and not falsified as claimed by the petitioners.

He maintained that “since nobody has tendered any other result aside the one announced by INEC, it shows there was no falsification of the result of the election as included in the petition of Senator Ladoja”.

Ladoja, the Accord governorship candidate in the April 11 election in Oyo State, is challenging Ajimobi’s victory.

The petitioner also joined APC, INEC and its Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr Rufus Akeju.

Richard Ogunwole is representing the petitioners; Wole Olanipekun and Olumuyiwa Aduroja are

Ajimobi’s counsel; Oluwarotimi Akeredolu represents the APC. Justice Mayaki said respondents had 10 days to write and file their final written addresses while the petitioners had seven days within which to file the same.

He added that all the parties had five days to reply on point of law.

“The parties also have additional 10 pages aside from the 40 pages meant for the final addresses for their objections to the admissible of documents tendered during the hearing session,” Justice Mayaki said

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

NEWS Oyo CAN chairman dies

Osinbajo: Consumers ‘ll get 6,000mw of power Q1 next year

From Bisi Oladele, Ibadan

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HE Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Oyo State, Pastor Ayo Olabisi, is dead.

He was the District Coordinating Council (DCC) Superintendent of the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) and the PastorIn-Charge, CAC Adamasingba, Ibadan.

Though details were still sketchy yesterday, it was learnt that he was 70 years old.

Members of the local church wailed uncontrollably on learning of his demise.

It was also learnt that the deceased did not attend service on Sunday and that prayers were offered for him.

Olabisi passed on while serving his second term as CAN Chairman. He was one of the leaders of a faction of the church.

He was also one of those standing trial for forgery of certificate of registration for the church in the over 20-year legal battle over the soul of CAC. The deceased is survived by a wife and children.

V

ICE President Yemi Osinbajo, has said the Federal Government

had plans to distribute 6,000 megawatts of electricity in the country by the first quarter of next year.

According to a statement by Mr Laolu Akande, the Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to the Vice President yesterday, Osinbajo

spoke at Kaleta, Guinea, on Monday at the inauguration of a 240 MW Hydro-power plant.

The event, where Osinbajo represented President Muhammadu Buhari, was part of the activities marking Guinea’s 57th Independence anniversary taking place on October 2.

The Vice President praised the vision of the Guinean President, Prof. Alpha Conde,

noting that the inauguration of the power plant was a “monumental accomplishment” in a short time.

“It shows what can be done with commitment and vision,” he added.

The 240 MW Hydro-power plant in Kaleta was built to serve mainly the people of Conakry, the nation’s capital city.

The release noted that the

event was witnessed by the Presidents of Congo and Niger, Denis Sassou Nguesso, and Mohamadou Issoufou, respectively.

It added that there were also representatives from the governments of China, France and the United Arab Emirates, among others.

The Vice President returned to Abuja after the ceremony.

Ofovweoghene Onerhime for burial

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HE remains of Mr. Paul Ofovweoghene Onerhime, who died on September 5, will be buried on Saturday, October 3 at Moses Osemaria Onerhime’s country home on Eku-Abraka Road, Eku, Delta State by 10am.

A service of songs will hold on Thursday, October 1 at Glorious Praise Events Arena on 34, Nembe Road, Rumuibekwe Estate, Port Harcourt by 6pm.

Born 50 years ago in London, United Kingdom, Onerhime attended the Federal Government College, Ikot-Ekpene and the University of Benin, Benin City where he graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology. He operated a Marine transportation business based outside Port Harcourt that serviced the Oil and Gas industry in the Niger Delta.

Onerhime is survived by his mother, a son, siblings, aunts, uncles, nephews and nieces.

•The late Onerhime

•L-R: General Superintendent, Pastor J.A Adeoloye, President, Christ Apostolic Church Worldwide, Pastor Gabriel Lagunju, Deputy General Envagelist, Pastor/Prophet Gabriel Oyelami and General Envagenlist, Prophet M.O Olatunji at the 2015 Annual General Convention of Christ Apostolic Church Worldwide at C.A.C Ile Anu, Alasepe, IKire, Osun State...yesterday PHOTO: FEMI ILESANMI

Ondo lawyer petitions CJN

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N Akure lawyer, Victor Olatoyegun, has petitioned the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) for the alleged mishandling of a suit by the Ondo State Chief Judge, Justice Olasehinde Kumuyi.

In his petition, Olatoyegun claimed that he filed a suit on behalf of Charles Titiloye against the Ondo State government.

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Titiloye, under the Freedom of Information (FoI) Act, sought information from the government on the public/ partnership agreement that led to the demolition of the state-owned Owena Hotel, Akure, the state capital.

The CJ assigned the case to his court but Titiloye, in a letter, requested the CJ to trans-

fer the case on the grounds of likelihood of bias.

Titiloye supported his position with a picture of Justice Kumuyi and one of the defendants, Governor Olusegun Mimiko, laying the foundation of the shopping mall to be built on the site of the demolished hotel.

The CJ was said to have ignored the letter and dismissed the application that he

should disqualify himself from hearing the matter.

The judge also failed to serve Olatoyegun the hearing notice of the date for the ruling on the disqualification suit, thereby preventing the claimant from appealing his ruling.

The CJN has directed Justice Kumuyi to take action on Titiloye’s complaint on his refusal to transfer the case from his court.

APGA warns PDP, LP over attack on Obiano

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HE All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in Anambra State has warned the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party (LP) to desist from attacking Governor Willie Obiano.

APGA’s Publicity Secretary Chinedu Nkwonta said the parties were attacking the governor because they were jobless.

APGA described allegations that Obiano abandoned projects initiated by former governor Peter Obi as frivolous even as it warned that ignoring its position would be at their own peril.

30 get grants from US consulate HE United States Consulate, Lagos, has awarded grants to 30 non government organisations.

Chargé d’Affaires, Maria Brewer, said the consulate was happy to partner with the organisations.

“I am very happy to be a part of this programme. It is a big opportunity to recognise the 30 most outstanding projects and organizations,” Brewer said.

The Deputy Public Affairs Officer, Frank Sellin, said approximately 300 submissions were received but 30 beneficiaries emerged after the rigorous

From Damisi Ojo, Akure

By Mojisola Clement

selection processes.

The areas of focus are: persons with disabilities, women empowerment, training of unemployed and vulnerable young women and men, food security in rural communities, grassroots development, reduction of female genital mutilation, environmental waste management, reduction of illicit trafficking and technological solutions.

Sellin advised the beneficiaries to be fair and accountable so that the projects would be able to meet needs.

From Nwanosike Onu, Awka

“The honeymoon for these visionless and non- directional political parties and their cohorts is over; APGA can no longer sit and watch them undermine the office of the governor with unfounded allegations.

“My office is equipped and ready to return back to them as they dish. He that lives in a glass house should not throw stones. Enough of their nonsense; that APGA is a law-abiding party does not give anyone the impetus to ride our leader.

“Any negative attack on Akpokuo is an attack on APGA. It is an attack on the general

integrity of Ndi Anambra, who are predominantly APGANS. “Let me remind the dreamers once more that PDP does not exist in Anambra, what they have are bullies and intimidators who have in the past, advantaged their control of the centre to defraud us during elections.

“APGA is fully awake now, be rest assured that such can never happen again. The Labour Party has gone extinct as it is and there is no need to push it.

“Who is the Chairman of PDP in Anambra? Where is Labour Party in the comity of political parties? How can

‘Operation rescue Ondo’ coming

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OALITION of APC Support Groups (Southwest Zone) has unveiled plans to “rescue Ondo State”.

The group said it will launch its “Operation Rescue Ondo State” next week.

National Vice-Chairman (Southwest) of the Coalition of APC Support Groups Doyin Johnson said Governor Olusegun Mimiko will not be allowed to “govern” Ondo State after he might have left office.

“Despite the monthly allocation from the Federation Account, there is nothing to show that the government is working in Ondo State.

“We want to remind Mimiko that his tenure will end and APC will take over in Ondo State. He would be made to give account of his administration.”

The National Youth Leader, Majeed Yahaya, added that the Coalition is also planning for Kogi and Bayelsa states.

Yahaya said the Coalition would soon mobilise youths to deliver Kogi people from the “epileptic government of Wada Idris”.

someone who cannot manage his home come to the public to allege unfounded allegations against a working governor?

“The position of governor Willie Obiano as our leader is that we should not expend energy in replying frivolous allegations, we spend our time in telling Ndi Anambra, Nigeria and the world what Akpokuodike Igbo is doing is a template for leadership.

“This does not imply that we have to let the miscreants in PDP and their disgruntled partners keep undermining the office of the governor,” APGA said.

Pa. Okoh dies at 88

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FORMER banker and community leader in Ubulu-Uku, Aniocha South local government area of Delta State, Diopka Felix Okoh, is dead. He was 88.

Okoh, who held various management positions during his career with the defunct African Continental Bank (ACB), spanning over 40 years, will be buried on Thursday, October 29, at his family compound in Agbonta Quarters, Ubulu-Uku, after a funeral mass at the St. Charles Catholic Church, Ubulu-Uku. He is survived by wife, children, grand-children and other relatives, including Mr. Ifechi Okoh, a Lagos-based journalist.

Ebonyi House recalls minority leader From Ogochukwu Anioke, Abakaliki

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HE Ebonyi State House of Assembly has recalled its suspended minority member, Mrs. Ude Nwachi, representing Afikpo NorthEast.

The one-month suspension was lifted in a motion

by Mr. Victor Chukwu representing Ezza North West and seconded by Mr. Onu Nnoye representing Ohaozara West.

Nwachi was suspended for her allegedly leading a violent protest on the Abakaliki/ Afikpo Federal highway, which according to investigations,led to the damage of some vehicles belonging to the Enugu Electricity Distribution company (EEDC).

Mr. Chukwu noted that Nwachi had shown enough remorse and had served her suspension well.

Speaker Francis Nwifuru put the motion to vote and it was unanimously adopted.

Ohanaeze youth rally for Saraki From Onyedi Ojiabor, Assistant Editor

O

HANAEZE Youth Movement Abuja (ONYM) yesterday, rallied at the National Assembly gate in support of embattled Senate President Bukola Saraki and his deputy, Ike Ekweremadu.

Some of the placards displayed read: “No to witch-hunting; “No to plot to destabilise National Assembly; “Saraki is facing trial because of his position as Senate President; “We say no to the antic of arms twisting”.

President of the group, Mr. Uche Nnadi noted that the group was against the use of anti-graft war by politicians for personal gains.

Nnadi faulted Saraki’s trial by the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT), insisting that Saraki was being prosecuted and persecuted because he was the Senate President and for allowing an Igbo man be the Deputy.

He claimed that Saraki’s trial contravened Section 3(d) of the Code of Conduct Bureau and Tribunal Act. “This despair is caused by the fact that the anticorruption war is being misused by a few political elites to fight their political war.

“We must state that it is corrupt to use the anticorruption war for party politics and political benefits.

“Saraki’s trial was contrived to force him out of office. Otherwise why all this political tension when the man has not been found guilty. Our law upholds a man as innocent until he is found guilty.”

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

NEWS I will head Petroleum Ministry, says Buhari

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R E S I D E N T Muhammadu Buhari said yesterday that he will head the Ministry of Petroleum Resources.

He told reporters in New York after addressing a Global Leaders’ Summit on Countering ISIL and Violent Extremism.

He said: “I will remain Minister of Petroleum. I will appoint a minister of State for Petroleum”.

According to him, this step is being taken as part of efforts to sanitise Nigeria’s oil industry which is said to be plagued by corruption, massive fraud, and crude oil theft.

Buhari restated his determination to sanitise Nigeria’s oil industry and free it from corruption and shady deals.

He said the first step in this direction had already been taken with the appointment of a new management for the NNPC and its subsequent reorganisation.

The President said that the prosecution of those who misappropriated NNPC’s revenue under past administrations would soon commence.

On Corruption, he pledged that the federal government will fight corruption, because it has been identified as the root of all problems hindering Nigeria as a nation.

NAN recalls that former President Olusegun Obasanjo, for most part of his tenure, was the minister of petroleum.

Abducted Akwa Ibom monarch’s whereabouts unknown •Kidnappers demand N200m ransom From Kazeem Ibrahym, Uyo

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WO days after gunmen abducted the monarch of Ibiaku Ishiet in Uruan Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Chief Williams Etim, his whereabouts is still unknown.

Etim was said to have been kidnapped with his elder brother, Placid Eti, at 2:30am on Monday at their country in Ibiaku Ishiet.

A relative, Bassey Effiong Etim, said the kidnappers demanded N200 million ransom.

Etim, who is a former member of the House of Representatives, reportedly told reporters in Abuja that the hoodlums had established contact with him, demanding N200 million before the monarch and Etim could be freed.

He said: “They (abductors) called me at noon today (yesterday) to demand N200 million. I’m just wondering how I can raise that kind of money.”

Police spokesman Cordelia Nwawe, an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), confirmed the abduction.

She said the police would ensure that the monarch and his brother were released unhurt.

The spokesperson assured the family of the abducted men that the police was on top of the situation.

We’ll win APC’s primary again, says Sylva

Amaechi: I won’t allow Wike to F destroy my name ORMER Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi has challenged his successor, Nyesom Wike, to charge him to court, if he has evidence of corruption against him.

Amaechi, who was among the 22 members on Nigeria’s delegation to the 70th United Nations (UN) General Assembly, spoke on Monday with our correspondent in New York.

The former governor was responding to Wike’s corruption allegations against him.

He said: “Let him (Wike) prove it in court. Tell him I said he should go to court. I have a wonderful reputation and I challenge Wike; he will not destroy that reputation. I won’t let him destroy it. He doesn’t have that kind of reputation; he will never have that kind of reputation.”

Amaechi noted that the reason he had no house in Port Harcourt, the state capital, was

By Adeola Oladele-Fayehun, New York

because he could not afford to build one.

The former governor said Wike was among those who contributed money for him to buy a piece of land.

He said: “When I say I don’t have a house in Port Harcourt, Wike would say it’s an irresponsible man that doesn’t have a house in his own village.

“He won’t ask: ‘Do you have money to build a house?’ I thought he would have attacked me that I have money. I just didn’t build a house. He won’t ask me how much my salary was as (House of Assembly’s) Speaker.”

To buttress his claim that he could not afford a house, Amaechi said: “Adultery and

Navy arrests 15 suspects, 'illegal' vessel in Calabar

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EN of the Eastern Naval Command (ENC) yesterday arrested 15 men for "illegally" operating a fishing trawler on the Calabar, Cross River State, waterways.

Parading the suspects and the vessel at the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Victory Jetty in Calabar,

From Nicholas Kalu, Calabar ENC's Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Rear Admiral Atiku Abdulkadir said they were arrested at the Calabar Fairway Buoy.

Those arrested included 14 Nigerians and a Ghanaian, who

allegedly had no documents.

The FOC said the vessel was on sea without relevant documents, thus posing security threats to the area.

He said: "From security point of view, it can be taken over by pirates. This can become a problem for others. This ship is not on any of our cleared lists to be on the

sea."

Abdulkadir said the suspects and the vessel would be handed over to the relevant authorities, after investigation.

The vessel's captain, Martin Baleta, who said he was from Badagry, admitted he was operating without relevant documents.

Policeman, two others killed in Port Harcourt robbery

A

POLICEMAN and two others died yesterday in a robbery on the Olu Obasanjo Road in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital.

The identity of the policeman could not be ascertained at the time of filing this report last night.

But he was said to be a mobile policeman on a private escort.

Eyewitnesses said the way the robbers operated indicated that they targeted the policeman “because they shot him dead before killing the driver and their principal”.

They said the victims left a

•Police: only one died From Clarice Azuatalam, Port Harcourt

new generation bank on the traffic-prone Olu Obasanjo Road, unaware that they were being trailed by four robbers.

The victims reportedly rode in a Toyota Tundra car and the robbers in a Toyota Camry car, taking advantage of the busy traffic.

The hoodlums were said to have parked a few metres away from the Rivers Transport Company (RTC) and trekked to-

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HE Timipre Sylva Campaign Organisation of the Bayelsa State All Progressives Congress (APC) has said the invalidation of the September 22 primary of the party was unfortunate.

In a statement yesterday in Yenagoa, the state capital, by its spokesman Doifie Buokoribo, the campaign team said Sylva would abide •Sylva by the party’s supremacy.

In the statement, titled: We Will Win Again, the From Mike Odiegwu, Yenagoa organisation urged its supporters to remain calm and the party’s flag in the December 5 governorship election, steadfast.

It added: “Ultimately, our is unfortunate.

“But as loyal and faithful victory is sure.”

APC’s National Working party folk, we have the serenCommittee (NWC), on Mon- ity to accept the decision in day, cancelled the controver- the larger interest of our great sial primary, following a re- party. We urge our teeming port submitted by its Elec- supporters to remain peacetoral Committee, headed by ful and unruffled, rest asEdo State Governor Adams sured that all is well.

“Ultimately, our victory is Oshiomhole.

There were fears that Sylva sure. Our hope cannot be ancould go to court to stop the nulled. Our mission to rescue Bayelsa State from the grip of new primary.

But it was gathered that maladministration and unsome influential members of derdevelopment is a task that the party prevailed on him must be accomplished.

“We should come out more not to take any action that would be inimical to the massively than ever before this Wednesday, September party’s interest.

The organisation said: 30, to repeat the overwhelm“The cancellation of the Sep- ing endorsement you gave tember 22 primary, where Sylva on September 22. ToChief Timipre Sylva was gether, we shall give the lie overwhelmingly voted by the to the report of our detracAPC family in our state to fly tors.”

anger or something else can take me to hell, but not lying.”

On his reasons for not appearing before the panel of enquiry Wike set up to probe him, Amaechi said: “It is not enough for a panel to indict a man. If Eze Wike wants to fight me, let him go to court. He keeps saying I’m a thief; but let him show me one property. ...He knows I know. So, if he has evidence, why hasn’t he put it out to the public? My children are proud of me. They say I’m one of the most honest Nigerians they know.”

Asked whether or not he was scrutinised by the Department of State Services (DSS) for a possible ministerial position, Amaechi said: “I don’t know if they’ll vet me. I’m not the President.”

The former governor denied the report that he expressed disappointment at the present administration.

He said: “Those are fabrications by Wike’s people. They fabricated it as if it’s an interview that I granted or by someone close to me.”

On the 70th General Assembly, Amaechi said President Muhammadu Buhari had got more support than former President Godluck Jonathan ever did.

He said: “The level of corruption in that era was so bad that we couldn’t pay salaries. As the governor of Rivers State, my allocation was reduced from N25 billion to about N6 billion. But the Buhari administration is here to save Nigeria.

“At the General Assembly, we had a lot of respect. We chose who to see and who not to see.

Before, no one wanted to see us.”

wards their targets.

It was learnt that the policemen nearby abandoned their duty posts and fled, after witnessing the way the occupants of the Tundra jeep were shot.

A resident, who spoke in confidence, said: “They (robbers) parked at the back because of traffic. They trekked to where the Tundra car was parked and attacked its occupants. They killed the main man, the policeman and the driver instantly.

Then, they took away an undisclosed amount of money the

people withdrew from the car and drove away immediately, because the traffic had cleared.”

It was learnt that after the incident, the police took away their dead colleague and the body of the car owner.

They were said to have returned later to remove the dead driver from the road.

Police spokesman Ahmad Muhammad, a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), said he was aware that only one policeman, Sergeant William Relomer, was killed in the incident, not with two other persons.

•From left: Bishop of Niger West Anglican Communion, Bishop Johnson Ekwe; Archbishop of the Niger Church of Nigeria (head of delegation), Archbishop Chris Efobi; Chief Edwin Ngige (son of the deceased), Senator Chris Ngige (son of the deceased), Bishop of Awka Diocese, Bishop Alexander Ibezim; Bishop of Niger Diocese Anglican Communion, Bishop Owen Nwokolo, during their condolence visit to the Ngiges on the death of their patriarch.

Ember-months’ road crashes not spiritual, says Amosun

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GUN State Governor Ibikunle Amosun has urged motorists to stop the erroneous belief that road crashed in the “ember” months are spiritual or the result of evil spirits working during the season.

The governor urged motorists to understand that there are usually increased economic activities, making people to speed, in the last quarter of the year.

Amosun, who was represented by his deputy, Mrs. Yetunde Onanuga, spoke at the Ita-Oshin Motor Park in

By Olalekan Ayeni

Abeokuta, the state capital, at the beginning of “Embermonths’ Safety Campaign.

The governor noted that the last four months of the year, popularly called the “Embermonths”, usually witnessed an upsurge in vehicle movements and the number of travellers.

Accompanied by Acting Corps Commander of the Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency (TRACE), Commander Seni Ogunyemi and the General Manager of the State

Parks and Garages, Alhaji Ola Ayo Ogunsolu, the governor stressed that road users should always show the highest sense of discipline and avoid any act that could violate traffic rules.

He warned drivers to desist from speeding, overload, wrong overtaking, use of phones while driving, drunken-driving and other traffic offences.

Amosun said any motorist caught driving against the traffic would be taken to Aro Psychiatric in Abeokuta for a psychiatric test.

The governor advised drivers

and passengers to always fasten their safety belts, adding that this would reduce accidents and fatality rate during road crashes.

He added that the objective of his administration’s safety campaign was to reduce road crashes.

The Chairman of the Road Transport Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), Alhaji Owotade Monsuru, and his National Union Road Transport Worker (NURTW) counterpar, Alhaji Adetunji Odunifa, thanked the governor for organising the campaign.

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

51

NEWS

PDP accuses Ahmed, APC of planning to clampdown on members

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HE Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kwara State yesterday alleged that some of its executive members had been marked for attacks.

Addressing reporters in Ilorin, the party Chairman, Akogun Iyiola Oyedepo, said the government and the All Progressives Congress (APC) accused the opposition of masterminding attacks on dignitaries on Eidel-Kabir day.

But the government and APC dismissed the allegation as false and unfounded.

Oyedepo said: “What could have warranted us running after APC in Kwara State? What is the strength of the party here? I think the party leaders should search their conscience and see if it is their past that is haunting them.

“In Kwara politics, it is the APC that has the records of violence as shown in their last primary election where dangerous

From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

weapons were used to settle political scores. On our side, it was an absolute peace. This is not the time for politicking or raising of baseless allegations. They should form a credible option rather than crying wolf where there is none.”

The opposition party, which urged the police and other law enforcement agents to protect its members, said the public should note the development.

“Kwara people know that we practise civilised opposition. Where we see the need to praise the government, we have always been doing so. Where we need to tell the truth to the people about the wrong ways and manners we have been governed, we only talk with facts and figures. Any attempt to kill, arrest or disturb our lawful activities will amount to intolerance of the opposition, which is antithetical to the working and practice of

democratic governance,” the party said.

The Chief Press Secretary to Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed, Alhaji Abdulwahab Oba, dismissed the allegation, saying: “This is no time for politicking.”

APC spokesman Sulyman Buhari said: “It should be noted that the allegation made by the PDP is untrue, unfounded and a weak attempt to blackmail the APC and the government. Even as the statement appears, the allegation is based on hearsays and fictions.

“The claim that the government plans to ‘ruthlessly deal with the opposition’ is false.

The claim that some unnamed persons ‘want to kidnap, arrest or possibly assassinate some PDP leaders’ is also false and laughable.

“It is on record that the APC in the state has no record of violence. On the contrary, it is the PDP that prides itself in political thuggery, gansterism and political violence, as its antecedents de-

pict.

“We did note the threat made by the PDP that if any of its members ‘is attacked, there will be a spiral of violent activities, the end of which nobody can predict’.

“Given the violent antecedents of the PDP in Kwara State, this unprovoked threat should be taken with seriousness by the people, as nobody can underestimate the capacity of Kwara PDP to instigate attacks on its members just for the party to set the ground for ‘spiral violent activities’ as threatened.

“In the light of the above, we urge the police command and other security agencies to maintain surveillance on the activities of PDP and its members so that any attempt to disrupt peace will be thwarted.

“We wish to reiterate the commitment of the Governor Ahmed administration to the protection of all Kwarans irrespective of political affiliations.”

Troops gun down notorious terrorist

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HE Army has captured a high profile member of the Boko Haram group.

Army spokesman Col. Sani Kukasheka Usman yesterday said Alhaji Tijjani Usman Damagum was undergoing interrogation. Another member of the group was gunned down on Monday afternoon, he added.

“Troops of 3 Division have arrested a suspected Boko Haram terrorist group kingpin, Alhaji Tijjani Usman Damagum.

“He was tracked down and arrested at Damagum town, Yobe State yesterday.

“A high profile Boko Haram terrorists’ group mem-

• Arrest kingpin

From Jide Babalola, Assistant Editor, Abuja.

ber, he has led Boko Haram members on various attacks, especially in Yobe State.

“The suspect is undergoing interrogation with a view to arraigning him soon,” he stated.

Col Usman also gave an insight into the operation

From Eric Ikhilae, Abuja

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that led to the army’s killing of an unnamed terrorist from whom soldiers allegedly recovered an AK- •Damagum 47 rifle.

“In an offensive opera- had been wrecking havoc tion to clear Boko Haram among the communities was terrorists enclave around gunned by our troops on MonKwatarha and Torikwaptir day afternoon.

“During the operation, four general area of Gwoza Local Government Area of other terrorists were believed Borno State, a notorious to have escaped with gunshot Boko Haram terrorist that wounds,” Col Usman added.

rant issued against him by the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) on September 18.

The tribunal issued the order because of his refusal to attend the tribunal in relation to the 13-count charge of false asset declaration brought against him by the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) through the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation.

Saraki is also challenging the competence of the CCT to order his arrest in relation to the charge and challenging the legitimacy of the charge.

The Senate president on September 21 approached the Court of Appeal with an exparte application for an inter-

im order to stay the execution of the bench warrant.

After listening to his lawyer, Adebayo Adelodun (SAN), move the application, the Appeal Court declined Saraki’s prayer on the grounds that it would amount to the appellate court interfering with proceedings pending before a lower court.

In a ruling by Justice Moore Adumein, the court held that it was not its character to entertain ex-parte applications, and to interfere with proceedings in the lower court.

The Court of Appeal wondered why Saraki was reluctant to appear before the CCT, noting that “to appear before the Code of Conduct

Tribunal is not a death sentence.”

The court said by its rule, it does not grant interim injunction, but that every motion before it must be on notice.

It ordered that the respondents be put on notice and for parties to return on September 29 for hearing of the motion on notice.

When parties got to court yesterday, they were told the court had cancelled its businesses in view of the death of its presiding justice.

Hearing was adjourned till next Tuesday.

The CCT Chairman, Mr. Danladi Umar, after Saraki’s arraignment on September 22, vacated the bench warrant issued on September 18, before adjourning further proceedings till October 21.

HOS locks out civil servants for lateness

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WARA State Head of Service (HOS), Hajia Zahra Omar, yesterday locked out 85 civil servants for coming late.

It was learnt at the Governor’s Office in Ilorin that Hajia Omar was uncomfortable with the lateness of some

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HE Niger State Independent Electoral Commission (SIEC) has postponed the local government elections slated for October 10 till November 7.

Fourteen parties will participate in the poll, which will hold in the 25 local governments.

Addressing reporters in Minna, the commission’s spokesman, Alhaji Mohammed Ali, said seven parties of the 14 fielded candidates for the chairmanship and councillorship elections in the 25 councils, adding that other parties fielded candidates for the councillorship poll.

Ex-minister, 11 others jostle for VC

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WELVE professors have declared their intention to contest the vice chancellorship of the Benue State University, Makurdi.

The seat will become vacant in November.

The former Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Prof. Nicholas Akise Ada, who is a Professor of Science Education, is one of the people jostling to succeed the outgoing Vice Chancellor, Prof. Charity Angya.

Prof. Ada, who lost out in the last race, attended Kings’ College, London where he participated in the British Councilsponsored book writing project for Colleges of Education in Nigeria under the auspices of the Nigeria Integrated Science Teachers Education Project. He obtained a professorial certificate in Integrated Science.

Prof. Ada said: “I’m acquainted with the university as the former deputy vice chancellor (Administration). To the best of my knowledge, I served with a sense of humility, dedication

From Uja Emmanuel, Makurdi

and courage for two terms, from 2011 to 2015.”

Another contender, Prof.

Joseph Fiase, who is a 1988 holder of PhD in Nuclear Physics from Manchester University in the United Kingdom, said he intended to instil discipline in students, who should graduate with a good conduct, added to intellectualism; pointing out that as an ex-dean, Postgraduate School, he was best positioned to deliver the goods.

The ex-Deputy Vice Chancellor, Prof. Yakubu Ochefu, noted that everybody must put on the thinking cap to solve the university’s financial challenges in a catalytic manner.

He said: “We must think of how we can run the university, not as a business, but in a business-like manner so that inputs and outputs are measured and accounted for.”

From Vincent Ohonbamu, Gombe •A gun recovered from him

•Case adjourned till Oct 6

HE hearing before the Court of Appeal, Abuja in a case instituted

by Senate President Bukola Saraki was aborted yesterday, following the death of Justice Abubakar Abdulkadir Jega.

He was one of the prominent Nigerians who died in the September 24 stampede in Mina, Saudi Arabia.

Saraki is before the court to challenge the bench war-

From Justina Asishana, Minna

Gombe owes N3b pension, gratuity

Justice’s death stalls Saraki’s appeal

•Dr Saraki

Niger council elections postponed

From Adekunle Jimoh, Iloin

of the workers and directed on Monday that the gate of the complex be locked after 8am.

Many of the senior and juniors workers in the Governor’s Office were caught un-

awares, leaving visitors to the office stranded at the gate.

A few of the lucky workers confided in our correspondent that the HOS had warned them several times against lateness.

Some of the late comers claimed they encountered

problems on the way. They, however, appealed for forgiveness.

Attempts to make the HOS comment on the matter were unsuccessful, but a source said she adopted the action to spur the workers for punctuality and productivity.

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OMBE State government owes over N3billion pension and gratuity, the Head of Service (HOS), Alhaji Usman Ahmed, has said.

He said the bill accumulated from the previous administrations despite Governor Ibrahim Dankwambo’s monthly N100million disbursement initiative to keep the figure down.

Ahmed said: “But it was just going like a drop of water in the sea because almost every month, it’s turning out equivalent of that amount or half of it.

“That was why Dankwambo started thinking of even taking a very soft facility you can re-finance.

“His Excellency has pronounced at various events that they are looking for funds anywhere, even on interest, to settle these gratuities and now, bailout fund has come. I think it’s only logical to utilise a portion of it.

“These gratuities we are talking about are as far back as early 2000.”

Ahmed sends commissioner-nominees’ list to assembly

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WARA State Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed yesterday forwarded the names of nine commissioner-nominees to the House of Assembly for screening and confir-

mation.

His Senior Special Assistant on Media and Communications, Dr. Muyideen Akorede, said this was in line with the governor’s determination to put in place a strong team of commissioners, special advisers and other aides to assist him in fulfilling his covenant with the people. Akorede stressed Ahmed would ensure equitable distribution of appointments and projects.

Fed Govt launches classrooms for displaced children From Duku Joel, Maiduguri

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HE Federal Government, under the Presidential Initiative on Northeast (PINE), has launched special mobile classrooms (SMOCs) for children of the Internally-Displaced Persons (IDPs), following the Boko Haram insurgency.

Each of the classroom has facilities, such as one chalk board, teacher’s table and chair, two wall fans, four double two feet florescent bulbs, 16 double desks, 32 single attached pupils’ and students’ chairs, ceilings and flooring. Each classroom has a solar energy inverter charger.

Launching the programme at the Dalori quarters of the IDPs’ camp in Maiduguri yesterday, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo said the move was an indication of the commitment of the Federal Government to rebuild Boko Haram-ravaged Northeast.

Represented by Dr. Maryam Masha from the Presidency, the Vice President said: “These facilities will help school-age children in the IDP camps to receive quality education before they return to their liberated communities.”

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

52

NEWS Lagos APC tackles PDP over Ambode’s commissioners’ list

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HE Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) yesterday tackled the state chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over the latter’s call on members of the House of Assembly to reject the list of commissionernominees sent to the chamber for screening and clearance.

It accused the PDP of not only meddling in its affair but promoting impunity.

According to the APC spokesman, Mr. Joe Igbokwe, the PDP stepped out of its bounds by asking the Assembly not to screen wouldbe commissioners, who the governor feels comfortable to work with.

In a statement, Igbokwe described as reckless the PDP reason that the nominees have links with a national leader of the APC, wondering if the APC expected Governor Akinwunmi Ambode to recommend those who will be clogs in the wheel of progress as commissioners and special advisers.

The statement reads: “Now for the avoidance of doubt the nominated candidates are cerebral and very competent personalities who can hold their heads high anywhere in the world

Buhari seeks Senate’s confirmation for Fowler, Danbatta, Kuru •President asks Assembly to okay $200m World Bank loan for Lagos From Onyedi Ojiabor and HE Senate yesterday Gbade Ogunwale received communications from President warded for approval as ExecMuhammadu Buhari re- utive Directors. questing confirmation of the Also yesterday, the Presiappointments of Mr. Baba- dent asked the Senate to aptunde Fowler as Executive prove a Development Policy •Ambode Chairman of the Federal In- Operation (DPO) loan (budgland Revenue Service (FIRS). and answer their fathers Also, the President sent a et support) of $200 million to Lagos State from the World names if the need arises. request for approval of Al“They have climbed haji Umaru Danbata as the Bank.

Buhari, in a letter entitled: through the ladder of leader- Executive Vice Chairman of “Request for special approvship from various depart- the Nigerian Communica- al of Lagos State DPO 11 unments in lagos State to get to tions Commission (NCC). der the Federal Government where they are today. They Similarly, the name of external borrowing rolling Alhaji Ahmed Kuru was sent have been tested and thereplan 2015 to 2017,” the Presifore can be trusted to add val- to the upper legislative body dent requested the Senate to for confirmation as the Man- endorse the loan expeditiousues to Lagos State.

“These gentlemen and aging Director of Assets Man- ly. women are no pushovers in agement Corporation of NiThe letter reads in part: “I refer to the above subject and their chosen professions and geria (AMCON). they are capable of assisting The names of Kola Ayeye, request approval for DevelEberechukwu Uneze and the governor to take Lagos to Aminu Ismail were also for- opment Policy Operation (DPO) loan (Budget Support) next level. Leadership is not measured by height or old age. Otherwise, giants and Methuselah would have been ruling the world. You may not •Continued from page 3 both government and private know somebody until you operators lost at least N80 The economy is also bleed- billion. This amount arose entrust him or her with posiing profusely.

The NCS said tion of authority.” from about 600,000 metric He urged the party to mind the country lost N270 million tonnes of rice between Januits own business, pointing out to month to rice smuggling. ary and March 2014.

The loss, Haastrup said, that “the strings of defeats it The figure would have been suffered since 1999 in the accruals as import duty and was caused by the diversion hands of Alliance for Democ- levy and it could translate to of ships laden with rice to the ports of neighbouring counracy (AD), Action Congress over N3.3 billion annually.

STOAN estimated that Ni- tries in Benin Republic, Cam(AC), Action Congress of Nigeria lost over N300 billion geria (ACN) and the APC”, as in 2013 from the high tariff on eroon, Accra and Togo.

Expectedly, the losses enough evidence that Lago- rice, while in the first quarter sians are for the progressives. of the following year alone, have left various authorities, stakeholders and investors groaning. The government agencies whose revenue were affected include: the NCS, terminal operators, dock workers and the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA).

Taxes, charges and wages, which should have accrued from handling of this commodity in the country, were lost to its neighbours.

All eyes on Customs The investors are now calling on the Buhari administration to come to their aid and save their investments. They insist that something urgent needs to be done to ensure that the nation’s entry points and borders are tightened to check smuggling. Such calls have put the new Comptroller-General of NCS, Col. Hameen Ali (Rtd) on the spot.

As the agency responsible for collecting and safeguarding import, export and excise duties and for controlling the inflow and outflow of goods, the NCS under Ali, is expected to halt the smugglers free reign.

The expectation is justified. For years, the country’s borders have been as porous as any could be, making them lucrative routes for smugglers. All manners of contrabands, from ammunitions to banned food items, like frozen chicken to vegetable oil still find their way into the local market through the borders.

Smuggling through the neigbouring countries has become a scandal and a major embarrassment, bringing along with it ill-omens for the economy in terms of revenue losses, compressing investors’ expectations and crippling local production of rice.

The unhindered smuggling and huge revenue loss

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of US$200 million to Lagos State from the World Bank.

“You may wish to know that the World Bank approved a DPO loan for a total sum of US$600 million to Lagos State Government in 2010 to be implemented in three tranches of US$200 million per annum.

“The first tranche was approved by the National Assembly in the 2010-2012 Federal Government External (Rolling) Borrowing Plan and the second tranche was in the 2012-2014 plan.

“The DPO 1has been successfully implemented as adjudged by the World Bank, the Bank’s Board of Executive Directors approved the second tranche of the DPO on April 29, 2015.

“The DPO 111 was cap-

tured in the Federal Government External (Rolling) Borrowing Plan of 2014-2016 which was discussed with the National Assembly, but was not concluded.

“Pursuant to the above, therefore I seek for your support to facilitate the consideration and approval of the DPO 111 loan of US$200million to enable the state to consolidate on the gains of the second tranche of the DPO 11.

‘It is instructive to note that key programme objectives of the DPO are already beginning to show in terms of increased inflow of private investment to the state, increased private sector employment opportunities and increased internally generated revenues.

How smugglers hamper rice policy, frustrate investors by government and local investors have been blamed on alleged complexity of men and officers of the Service.

Dr Adesina is the first government official to openly accuse the Service of not doing enough to curb the rice smuggling. At a public hearing on the smuggling and revenue loss at the National Assembly, last year, Adesina blamed NCS for the billions of naira the country was losing as a result of the Federal Government’s 110 per cent tariff regime on imported rice.

He told his audience: “The NCS must do its job of policing the borders. My job is to encourage local rice production. The bags of rice that are being smuggled is not carried on the head or brought in by ghosts. They come in trailers and in large quantities.”

Adesina, who was addressing members of the Committee on Customs and Excise, noted that the continued importation of rice into the country had contributed to the high unemployment among Nigerians.

He also alleged that some unscrupulous Nigerians were conniving with importers of rice to frustrate the implementation of the new policy on rice. He maintained that the increased rice tariff regime was the best for the country as it would encourage and enhance local production of rice.

The former minister’s comment on the NCS did not go down well with the service. The immediate past ComptollerGeneral of the NCS, Alhaji Dikko Inde Abdullahi, described Adesina’s allegation as “misleading”.

Flaunting the Customs’ records, he said despite the challenge of the porous borders, the service’s reinvigorated its antismuggling operations between March 2013 – February 2014, resulting in the seizure of 220,177 bags of rice illegally brought into the country.

Abdullahi attributed the success of smugglers to the connivance of local boarder communities who assisted them. He said the Service was collaborating with such communities to check activities of smugglers.

He also identified the low tariff on rice in neighboring countries as one of the major factors contributing to smuggling of rice into the country.

If the former Customs boss collaborated with border communities to check smuggling, the onus is on Ali to strengthen such collaboration to end economic sabotage, if the war against rice smuggling must succeed.

An erstwhile Minister of Industry, Dr. Charles Ugwu said: “It is absolutely critical that government manages the tariff regime to ensure product availability, fair/ stable consumer prices, and protection of local producers/processors that are rendered cost uncompetitive by environmental factors and infrastructural handicap.”

He listed other major challenges and difficulties facing the rice value chain to include capital mobilisation, limited irrigation facilities, lack of basic mechanisation, and seasonal availability of paddy, as well as the absence of a marketing board, and payment system for paddy.

According to Ugwu, to establish a 25,000-30,000 ton capacity rice mill with Indian or Chinese equipment will costs about $6 million, while keeping the mill supplied with paddy requires $12 million annually. As he pointed out, difficulties in terms of the quantum of funds, level of interest rate, issues of collateral securities and very short repayment options, kill off dreams/ambitions of indigenous private sector ownership of mills.

The former minister, therefore, said the government intervention and assistance in the form of a long-term loan has become absolutely necessary, noting that although, crossborder smuggling through the Cotonou Port remains a great threat, new investments by the government and the private sector into all aspect of the value chain give hope that success could be achieved in the medium-term if the policies and direction are sustained.

The response of the NCS to trans-border smuggling will go a long way in saveguarding the investment of local investors and the halting revenue losses by government.

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

FOREIGN NEWS

Cameron: Migrant crisis complicates EU membership

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K. Prime Minister David Cameron said Europe’s migrant crisis was complicating his efforts to change Britain’s relationship with the European Union, a central policy goal of his second term in office.

In an interview with The Wall Street Journal on Monday, Mr. Cameron said the crisis made it more challenging for him to make the case for staying in the European Union to the British people, who were watching waves of refugees and other migrants arrive in Europe from Syria and elsewhere with concern.

“It does complicate it, but if I do my job properly I must try to cut through this complication and explain the bigger picture,” Mr. Cameron said while in New York for the United Nations General Assembly. He added that if he could explain that staying in the EU was in Britain’s eco-

nomic and geopolitical interest—while negotiating better terms to Britain’s membership in the EU—then he had a good chance of convincing the British public to stay in the bloc.

“But is it a difficult challenge?” the U.K. leader asked.

“Well, yeah.”

Mr. Cameron’s comments came as he is due to address Conservatives next week at his party’s first conference since a resounding electoral victory in May, when he secured the first Conservative majority since 1992. The issue of Europe, long a divisive one within the Conservative Party, is likely to loom large at the four-day party conference in Manchester.

Mr. Cameron said he wanted the U.K. to remain in a reformed EU. But he is under pressure from some in his party to secure difficult concessions from Brussels or to exit

altogether. The prime minister has pledged that he will put the question of Britain’s membership in the bloc to a referendum by the end of 2017, after renegotiating “a better deal” for the U.K. within the EU. A poll published Monday

by YouGov PLC found that more people favored leaving the EU than remaining, a shift from other surveys on the question in recent months.

The survey showed 40% of the 11,171 people surveyed backed leaving, while 38% said they wanted to remain in the EU. The rest said they didn’t know or wouldn’t vote.

Another key issue facing Mr. Cameron is what approach to take in Syria. In the interview, Mr. Cameron said that he was open to working with Russia to defeat Islamic State militants in Syria but

that backing Syrian President Bashar al-Assad wouldn’t lead to lasting peace or stability in the region. Mr. Cameron said he thought Russia’s intervention in Syria demonstrated the extent to which it was worried about the fall of Mr. Assad.

“I think one of the best ways to engage with Russia is to say, ‘Look, long-term, it is this battle against Islamist extremist violence that should actually unite us,’” Mr. Cameron said.

He added that teaming up with Mr. Assad was a “selfdefeating strategy.”

Mr. Cameron also said that he was “very worried” that the migrant crisis would strain ties within Europe but that he thought Europe was now heading in the right direction in terms of its response.

“The focus was too much on what to do when they got here,” he said. “There is no number of Syrians you can take that is going to make the

crisis go away.”

Mr. Cameron has said he wants to renegotiate EU policy in four areas: competitiveness, sovereignty, economic governance and access to welfare benefits by other EU citizens. He said on Monday that the changes he wants on welfare payments, intended to curb immigration to the U.K. from the EU, would be the most difficult concession to achieve.

But the prime minister has yet to answer key questions on his Europe plans, including the specifics of the changes he wants and the timing of the referendum. U.K. Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond last week said that the EU referendum could happen as late as 2017 if negotiations stretch through next summer and fall, despite statements by him and other officials earlier this summer that the U.K. could

AU announces South Sudan war crimes court

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•People around the world have observed a rare celestial event, as a lunar eclipse coincided with a so-called "supermoon".

The eclipse - which made the Moon appear red. This phenomenon was last observed in 1982 and will not be back before 2033.

PHOTO: Reuters

Yemen conflict: Wedding attack death toll rises to 131

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HE death toll from a suspected air strike on a wedding party in Yemen on Monday has risen to at least 131, the United Nations and local medics say.

Missiles reportedly hit two tents in a village near the Red Sea port of Mocha, where a man linked to the Houthi rebel movement was celebrating his marriage.

But the Saudi-led coalition that has been bombing the rebels for six months denied responsibility for the attack.

The UN condemned “the disregard shown by all sides for human life” in Yemen.

Secretary-General Ban Kimoon stressed that there was no military solution to the

conflict and its continuation would only bring more human suffering and destruction.

Some 5,000 people, including 2,355 civilians, have been killed in air strikes and fighting on the ground since 26 March, when Houthi fighters and allied army units forced Yemen’s internationally recognised president to flee the country.

Last week, Abdrabbuh Mansour Hadi returned to the southern port city of Aden, where his government has set up a temporary base as southern militiamen and coalition forces press northwards towards the rebel-held capital, Sanaa.

Residents of the village of Wahijah said that in Monday’s attack, missiles fired by coalition warplanes tore into two tents at the wedding reception.

Yemeni security sources confirmed to the Associated Press that there had been an air strike and a senior government official said it had been “a mistake”.

But a coalition spokesman vehemently denied it was behind the attack. A spokesman said: “There have been no air operations by the coalition in that area for three days. This is totally false news.”

Initial reports said at least 40 people were killed in the incident, many of them women and children.

But on Tuesday morning, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (UNHCR) said 130 or more people were now reported to have died.

A medical source at a hospital in Maqbana, where the casualties were taken, also told the Reuters news agency that the death toll had risen to 131.

“If the numbers are as high as suggested, this may be the single deadliest incident since the start of the conflict,” UNHCR spokesman Rupert Colville said.

Mr Colville said almost two-thirds of the civilian deaths reported in Yemen over the past 12 months had allegedly been caused by coalition air strikes.

Former DR Congo’s VP denies bribery charge at ICC

•Bemba

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FORMER vice-president of the Democratic Republic of Congo and his ex-lawyers have denied charges of bribing witnesses to give false testimony at his war crimes trial.

John-Pierre Bemba was charged at the International

hold a referendum next year.

The change in tone comes as an influx of migrants from Syria and other war-torn countries into Europe has overshadowed Mr. Cameron’s renegotiation efforts. Some politicians in Berlin and elsewhere in Europe have expressed concern that Mr. Cameron’s opting out of an EU plan to relocate migrants across Europe is eroding his political capital on the Continent.

Castro calls for U.S. to lift trade embargo

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HE African Union (AU) says a special court will be set up to try war crimes suspects in South Sudan, which has been hit by a brutal conflict since 2013.

The move is aimed at promoting an “African solution” to the conflict in the world’s youngest state, which became independent in 2011, it said.

An inquiry has found that both government and rebel forces have committed atrocities, the AU added.

Despite the signing of a peace deal last month, conflict has continued.

The formation of the court is part of the deal President Salva Kiir and rebel leader Riek Machar signed following intense diplomatic pressure from regional leaders, reports the BBC’s Emmanuel Igunza from the AU headquarters in Ethiopia’s capital, Addis Ababa.

South Sudan does not recognise the International Criminal Court (ICC), which investigates atrocities in member states or if a case is referred to it by the UN Security Council.

The AU is also extremely critical of the ICC, accusing it of failing to operate impartially - a charge it denies.

A special court, set up by Senegal with the AU’s backing, is currently trying Chad’s former President Hissene Habre for alleged atrocities committed during his rule.

Image copyright Reuters Image caption Mr Kiir (left) and Riek Machar were once allies The South Sudan court will use a mix of international and South Sudanese law.

•Cameron

Criminal Court (ICC), with two of his ex-lawyers and an MP. Prosecutors said the case was vital to protect the ICC’s integrity.

The alleged bribes were paid while he was in the court’s prison at The Hague, following his arrest in 2008.

“Mr Bemba directed a plan to see his acquittal through corrupted means,” chief prosecutor Fatou Bensouda told judges.

She added that witness testimony, phone and money transfer records, and logs from the court’s jail would prove her case.

In documents presented to

the court, the prosecution alleged that his ex-trial lawyer Aime Kilolo discussed making payments with witnesses, Reuters news agency reports.

“This isn’t corruption,” Mr Kilolo is alleged to have told a witness. “Just a present from Mr Bemba because you agreed to testify in his favour.”

Image copyright AFP Image caption Mr Bemba led rebel MLC forces in DR Congo before signing a peace deal with the government Image copyright AFP Image caption Mr Kilolo denies trying to influence witnesses Prosecutors said that on an-

other occasion Mr Kilolo told a colleague that “our white [colleague] mustn’t hear about this”, in apparent reference to Mr Bemba’s UK lawyer Peter Haynes, Reuters reports.

Mr Kilolo, lawyer JeanJacques Mangenda Kabongo, lawmaker Fidele Babala Wandu, and witness Narcisse Arido all deny the charges.

The accused, who are all DR Congo citizens, say that any payments made were intended to cover witnesses’ expenses and not to influence their testimony, Reuters reports.

Mr Bemba was living in Belgium when he was arrested in 2008 to stand trial at the

ICC for fuelling conflict in DR Congo’s neighbour, the Central African Republic (CAR). He denies the charge.

Mr Bemba led a militia known as the Movement for the Liberation of Congo (MLC) during DR Congo’s brutal civil war.

The troops intervened in a power struggle in CAR in 2002 and 2003, and are accused of murdering and raping civilians.

After a peace deal in DR Congo in 2003, Mr Bemba laid down his arms and joined an interim government.

He lost a run-off election against President Joseph Kabila in 2006.

UBAN President Raul Castro has told the UN that normal relations with the US will only be possible if America takes a number of measures including the abolition of its trade embargo.

He said it was also necessary for the US to return the military base at Cuba’s Guantanamo Bay and end anti-communist broadcasts to the island.

US President Barack Obama also called for the trade embargo to be lifted.

He said that he was confident that the US Congress would do so soon.

The two leaders are expected to meet later on Tuesday in New York.

Speaking at the UN General Assembly on Monday, President Obama said he thought the Republican-held Congress would inevitably lift “an embargo that should not be in place anymore” despite its reservations over the administration’s support for it.

He said that while the Cuba policy of the US had “failed to improve the lives of the Cuban people”, human rights remained a concern in relations with Havana.

Image copyright AFP Image caption President Obama said that he was confident that the US Congress would lift the embargo soon He was applauded by delegates in the 193-nation UN General Assembly.

The embargo has been in place since 1960 and remains a contentious issue in relations between Cuba and the US. President Castro for his part said that now that diplomatic ties were back in place, the overall normalisation of relations “will only be achieved with the end of the economic, commercial and financial blockade against Cuba”.

It was President Castro’s first address to the UN since succeeding his brother Fidel in 2006. Like President Obama, he received sustained applause.

The White House announced on Sunday that President Obama would hold talks with his Cuban counterpart on Tuesday on the sidelines of the General Assembly.

It will be their second meeting following on from their first historic get-together in Panama in April.

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THE NATION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

55

THE NATION WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015

SPORT EXTRA

NFF unveils youth development plan T

HE Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) yesterday in Lagos, unveiled its Youth Football Development (YFD) plan that would boost the country’s chances of winning the World Cup in 2012.

First Vice President of the NFF, Seyi Akinwunmi at the unveiling of the development plans, stated that the welfare of youth footballers would be paramount. He also said that code of conduct for coaches, players and official have been drawn up to ensure that the plans are adhered to.

Akinwunmi, who is also the chairman of the NFF Youth Football Development Committee, said that the federation would partner schools and ensure that the activities of foot-

By Adeyinka Adedipe ball academies are checked by creating guidelines for operators.

He said the programme is also meant to create and expand football platform to consistently identify talented players from the age grade league and school competitions with a view of introducing them to the national teams and the league.

Under the plan, according to Akinwunmi, the players identification scheme would drastically reduce age cheat by monitoring players from the under 13 level to when they get the chance to play for the national team.

“With the plan, Nigeria can win the 2022 World Cup if the

players we are trying to groom get the right mentality at the youth level. The programme can become an avenue to supply the national teams and league clubs,” Akinwunmi added.

Major sponsor of the programme, Zenith Bank PLC, represented by Marcel Okeke, said partnership with the NFF would be enduring, while noting that the youth football development plan is in sync with the bank’s youth empowerment programme.

Okeke stated that the programme is the beginning of a new vista in football development in the country and said that Zenith Bank would ensure the objectives of the programme are achieved.

• Luis Suarez of FC Barcelona against Bayer Leverkusen player during their Champions League clash on Tuesday night

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

Chelsea loses 1-2 to Porto • Olympiacos shock Gunners at Emirates

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HELSEA dropped to third place in Group G after they fell to a 2-1 defeat to Porto.

It took just two minutes for Porto's Yacine Brahimi to force an early save out of Asmir Begovic in the Chelsea goal, but up the other end, Cesc Fabregas saw Iker Casillas react sharply to push his strike past the post.

Shortly before the quarter-hour mark, the Blues should have edged in front after Diego Costa and Willian combined to set up Pedro, but the Spaniard was unable to test Casillas despite finding himself in a promising position.

Clear-cut opportunities were few and far between as the game progressed past 30 minutes, but Vincent Aboubakar did manage to get a shot away as he curled the ball just over the crossbar.

However, with six minutes of the half remaining, Andre gave the home side the lead when he was well placed to score after Begovic had initially saved from Brahimi.

Chelsea hit back two minutes into added-on time when

RESULTS CHAMPIONS LEAGUE BATE 3 - 2 Roma Barcelona 2 - 1 Leverkusen Arsenal 2 - 3 Olympiakos Bayern 5 - 0 Dinamo FC Porto 2 - 1 Chelsea Maccabi 0 - 2 Dynamo Kyiv Lyon 0 - 1 Valencia Zenit 2 - 1 Gent

Willian curled the ball past Casillas to allow Jose Mourinho's men to go into the break on level terms, but seven minutes after the restart, they fell behind for a second time.

Maicon was the man who got it, heading in at the near post after evading the Chelsea defence, and it left the Blues with an uphill task for the remainder of the match. They were almost level two minutes later, though, as Costa curled the ball towards the top corner but to the dismay of the striker, his shot struck the crossbar and bounced clear.

Mourinho threw on Eden Hazard, but it was Porto who spent the following 10 minutes in the ascendancy, as Giannelli Imbula, Danilo and Brahimi all threatened a third, and potentially decisive, goal.

However, Arsenal succumbed to a 3-2 defeat at the hands of Olympiacos in Tuesday night's Champions League Group F clash at the Emirates Stadium.

Following a tentative start in North London, the hosts were first to threaten as Theo Walcott beat the offside trap seven minutes in and sent a short cross into space, but defender Alberto Botia was able to clear.

Three minutes later the Gunners managed to repel an Olympiacos free kick before launching a counterattack which saw Walcott fire straight at opposition goalkeeper Roberto.

The visitors slowly grew into the game as, 22 minutes in,

Pajtim Kasami skinned past Francis Coquelin and picked out Konstantinos Fortounis on the edge of the box, but the resulting shot sailed wide of David Ospina's left-hand post.

Arsenal began to struggle against their opponents and, just after the half-hour mark, found themselves a goal down when Felipe Pardo's effort at the edge of the hosts' box took a deflection off Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and wrongfooted Ospina en route to the back of the net.

It didn't take long for Arsene Wenger's side to pull level,however,just three minutes elapsing before Alexis Sanchez marauded down the right before cutting back to Walcott, who showed great composure inside the box to rifle home.

Nevertheless Olympiacos would go on to end the half in the lead as, just five minutes before the break, Fortounis's corner was spilled by Ospina and, as he attempted to gather it, crossed the goalline.

The Gunners set about trying to get back into the game after the restart, but it took them until the hour mark to fashion some concrete chances, with two coming in quick succession. First, Aaron Ramsey's attempt to cross to Sanchez down the right wing saw Roberto leap into action and punch the ball into the path of Mertesacker, who forced a save from the goalkeeper before Esteban Cambiasso cleared off the line from Santi Cazorla.

TODAY IN THE NATION

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2015 TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM

VOL.10 NO.3353

‘Perhaps, the time has come to put an end to the nefarious perpetrations of these lawless Fulani herdsmen all over the place, at least, to make it clear to them that they should not constitute themselves into Lords of the Manor’ DELE AGEKAMEH

COMMENT & DEB ATE EBA

S

IXTEEN years ago, Karl Maier, one time correspondent of the London Independent in Nigeria, wrote a rather despondent sounding book about Nigeria’s political-economy he titled: “This house has fallen: Nigeria in Crisis.” For pessimists about the country’s prospects, the book was grist to the mill; its title alone, they said, was proof positive that Nigeria had no future. But, these pessimists said further, the proof against Nigeria’s viability was not just the title. The picture of doom and gloom the author painted of the country through much of the book’s 11 chapters (if you counted the Epilogue) was, they said, too accurate to refute.

What such pessimists conveniently ignored, however, was that behind the author’s picture of doom and gloom, he was an optimist about Nigeria. “By early 2000,” Maier said in the book’s Epilogue, “there appeared to be scant reason for optimism. There were simply too many problems, too much anger, and too little time. Nigeria seemed to be approaching tropical firestorm, and there was nothing the new civilian government, however honorable its intention, could do to stop it.”

However, barely one paragraph after these despondent words, the author changed gear and expressed optimism about Nigeria. “But,” he said, “just when despair about the future becomes overwhelming, one meets or recalls someone who restores one’s faith that Nigeria just might turn itself around after all. One such person is Bilikisu (sic) Yusuf, the tall, elegant, sometimes fiery, and highly articulate Muslim woman who is one of the prime movers in Nigeria of Transparency International, the anti-corruption organisation.”

The clock of this rare and remarkable woman stopped ticking last Thursday, just two months and six days to what would have been her 63th birthday on December 2. She died along with over 700 other pilgrims to this year’s Hajj in what the Saudi authorities claim was an avoidable stampede among the pilgrims heading back to Makkah after completing the final rite of stoning the devil.

Virtually all other accounts of the tragic incident, however, suggest that the Saudis’ claim was an ill-considered attempt at blaming the victims, considering the fact that the incident resulted from a very badly timed, and therefore thoughtless, barricading of the pilgrims’ exit route just to secure the passage of a Saudi prince.

Whatever the truth about the cause of the tragic incident, Nigeria has suffered probably its single biggest elite casualties during Hajj operation in recent times. Among them are the subject of this tribute, two justices of the Court of Appeal, one of whom, Justice Abdulkadir Jega, is a friend, a first class emir from Taraba State along with nearly half his immediate family, another friend, Professor Tijjani el-Miskeen who is a leading scholar in Islam and Arabic, a senior lawyer and an Associate Professor of Pharmacy, both from my home town, Bida, Niger State, and the state’s Accountant-General.

Of all these tragic losses, however, the most personal to me was, of course, Hajiya Bilkisu’s.

But more than a personal loss, she was an even greater loss to the country. This much is obvious not only from the faith Maier expressed in her as a great motivator in turning her country around. It is also obvious from her inclusion among 42 Nigerian media

RIPPLES

FIGHT AGAINST CORRUPTION LEGITIMA TE–KUMUYI LEGITIMATE–KUMUYI

Let the biased politicians hear

People and Politics By

MOHAMMED H ARUNA ndajika@yahoo.com

Hajiya Bilkisu: She was too good and true

•The late Hajiya Bilkisu

leaders interviewed for a two-volume book of reference on Nigerian Journalism jointly funded by the Nigerian Guild of Editors and Pan Atlantic University, Lagos, and edited by Richard O. Ikiebe of the university’s School of Media and Communication.

In Volume Two of the book, Bilkisu gave her reason for choosing Journalism as her career.

“I have,” she said, “a voracious appetite for knowledge, but knowledge is not useful if you do not share. Journalism provides me with the perfect opportunity to educate myself and share that knowledge.”

Her voracious appetite for knowledge took her from Ansar Primary School, Kano in 1964, to the famous Government Girls College, Dala, Kano; to Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, for her first degree; to University of Wisconsin, Madison, USA, for her Master’s; to Moscow Institute of Journalism for a post-graduate diploma; and peaked with her attendance of the prestigious National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPPS), Kuru, Jos, for her mni (Member of the Institute) in 1994.

Bilki, as friends call her, said she chose Journalism as a career to learn and share her knowledge. But she did more than learn and share; she practised what she learnt because she grew up to believe one must practise what

W

one preached if one truly wished to make a difference.

Here again let us return to Maier’s book. In concluding the book, the author gave its very final words to Bilki. “It’s not enough,” she said, “for us to say, ‘Ah, the leadership is corrupt, government is corrupt.’ We have not internalised the message of probity, accountability and transparency. If we are going to hold people to account and really make positive change in Nigeria, we must first begin with ourselves.”

In the 43 years I have known Bilki as a fellow undergraduate in the same department in ABU, Zaria, as editor of New Nigerian when I was its managing director, as co-founder of the rested Citizen and up until she died last week, she began whatever she preached with herself; she lived a very modest and virtuous live and gave her all to every assignment she gave herself or was given.

Self-imposed or given, the assignments were so numerous her friends always wondered how she found the time and energy to cope as well as she always did. Notable among these assignments were her role as two-time Amira of the FOMWAN, the Federation of Muslim Women Associations of Nigeria, arguably the most organised and effective Muslim organisation in the country, her role as a pioneer road marshal along with the Nobel laureate, Wole Soyinka, her role as a member of the Presidential Advisory Council on International Relations headed by Chief Emeka Anyaoku, and her role as a member of the fact-finding committee, headed by retired General Ibrahim Sabo, on the abduction of Chibok Girls by Boko Haram, which provoked so much global outrage. This is not to mention her co-founding of, and active participation in, many human rights and civil society organisations and associations like Nigeria’s chapter of Transparency International under the incorruptible retired General Ishola Williams, Accountability for Maternal Newborn and Child Health in Nigeria

HARDBALL 26

HY would ex-President Goodluck Jonathan, by his own admission, choose to go into hiding? True, his reelection dream proved to be a fantasy.

But that is no reason to play hide-and- seek.

When he surfaced at the home of the late Mrs. Hannah Idowu Dideolu Awolowo in Ikenne, Ogun State, on a condolence visit, he was accompanied by his wife, Patience, and a few loyalists. Jonathan was quoted as saying: “Within this period, my wife and I have been hiding; we don’t even go out. We thought we’ll be hiding for at least 12 months. But in this particular case, we could not hide. So, we’ve come here to console and encourage our brothers and sisters that we are together.”

Jonathan did not provide any details about his hiding place, or perhaps more precisely, their hideout, since he included his wife. That would have been interesting information.

Wherever they might have been holed up before their Ikenne appearance and performance, they must have enjoyed the advantages of domestic adequacy. Jonathan’s words, “we don’t even go out,” painted a picture of internal sufficiency that stretches the imagination.

Also, it is food for thought that the former

(AMHiN), Vision Trust Foundation (VTF) and CISLAC. In all these, Bilki gave more than she got unlike many a public figure who took more than they gave but were adept at polishing their public images. Consequently in death, her net worth is hardly likely to amount to much, especially for someone once married to the highest aristocracy in Kano Emirate and then remarried to a top flight banker.

The fruits of her first marriage in 1975 to the late Muhammad Sanusi Yusuf who eventually became the Chief Judge of Kano State and died as the Madaki of Kano, the chair of the emirate’s council of kingmakers, were Nana Fatima (37), a graduate teacher at Rumfa College, Kano, and Mashood (36), a lawyer of over 10 years experience and lately a senior staff of the Jos Electricity Distribution Company.

In marriage and in divorce Bilki and the late Madaki apparently raised the most respectful, honest and religious children any parent could wish for. Between the two of them, Nana and Mashood gave Bilki and the late Madaki four grandchildren, two boys and two girls.

As a divorcee Bilki could hardly have found a better match than Mustapha Bintube as her second husband. Mustapha left Fidelity Bank as a well-regarded general manager for his insistence on ethical banking and was pioneer managing director of Ja’iz Islamic Bank. While Bilki considered her duty as wife above her commitments to Journalism and civil society and human rights activities, Mustapha gave her ample time to attend to those commitments. The result was one great and happy family.

Bilki believed in the power of prayers as a Muslim of deep faith. Not surprisingly she was never tired of reminding me and my wife, whom she took under her wing from day one of our marriage in 1982, to, among other admonishing, organise regular reading of the Holy Qur’an in our house for protection. As a good Muslim, however, she also believed that the prayer that moved mountain carried a pick axe.

So, even as she prayed constantly, she made sure she did her own bit for herself and for the society at large so that God will answer her prayers. In death it is apparent that God had answered her prayers to live an exemplary life here on earth. And given the circumstance of her death in the Holy Land, chances are the Beneficent and Merciful Allah has also answered her prayers for her exertions, selfless and sincere as they were, to be rewarded in the hereafter with aljanna firdaus.

They say when something or someone is too good, it, or he, is unlikely to be true. Bilki was an exception to that rule. She was too good as a human being. But at the same time she was true.

•For comments, send SMS to 08059100107

•Hardball is not the opinion of the columnist featured above

Hide-and-seek

first couple planned to stay in the indoor paradise “for at least 12 months”.

It is unclear when they took the decision to restrict themselves to strictly private space, and when it took effect. When Jonathan left office on May 29, he left the federal capital, Abuja, and reportedly returned to his country home in Otuoke, Ogbia local government area of Bayelsa State.

But on August 17, there was Jonathan, looking animated, in a newspaper picture with this caption: “Dr. Jonathan alighting from the aircraft in Kenya...at the weekend.

Standing on his left is his wife Dame Patience and other officials” The accompanying report said: “Ex-President Goodluck Jonathan at the weekend stormed Kenya’s Maasai Mara Games Reserve in two chartered planes. One of the planes carried Kenya State security and the second was occupied by Jonathan, his wife Patience and two of their children. He is at the reserve for a three-day tour to witness the wildebeest migration. Jonathan was booked at the new Angama Mara Lodge at

the Oloololo conservancy. The ex-president was received by Narok Governor Samuel Tunai.”

The report continued: “Tunai, who is also the Council of Governors tourism committee chairman, said more than 500,000 tourists from all over the world are expected to witness the spectacular crossing of wildebeest across the crocodile-infested Mara River. Jonathan, who refused to speak with reporters on his arrival to the reserve, according to Kenya media, is the second dignitary to visit the reserve in less than a fortnight after the King of Swasiland, Mswati III. The king was booked in the same lodge six days ago. The owner of the hotel, Nicky Fitzgerald, said this tourism peak season is different from the past as prominent personalities from across the world have been calling for bookings. “We have received Mr Jonathan, King Mswati III, a Chinese prominent family and we are expecting other royalties,” said Ms Fitzgerald.”

Is this Jonathan’s idea of going into hiding?

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