The Nation Dec 27, 2012

Nigeria’s widest circulating newspaper

13 vehicles burnt in Edo tanker fire

ACN, CPC, ANPP to merge in March NEWS Page 8

NEWS Page 61

•Commercial vehicle driver dies

•Senator raises hope on plan

www.thenationonlineng.net

VOL. 7, NO. 2353 THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

TR UTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM TRUTH

N150.00

US to citizens: don’t visit Bayelsa, Delta, Edo, seven others T HE United States has banned all its citizens from travelling to 10 states in Nigeria during the Yuletide - no thanks to insecurity.

The states are: Bayelsa, Delta, Edo, Plateau, Gombe, Yobe, Kaduna, Bauchi, Borno, and Kano states.

From Yusuf Alli, Abuja

The United States has also restricted its officials from visiting all the 19 Northern states and directed the officials to obtain clearance if the mission is essential.

It, besides, alleged that there is increasing attacks on commercial and private vessels by pirates off the coast of Nigeria in the Gulf of Guinea with the Nigerian Navy lacking the capacity to

•WHERE IT ALL ST AR TED: House 45, Ojogiwa St., Idumota, Lagos on fire...yesterday STAR ARTED:

check the menace.

The US said it decided to take the step because the security situation in Nigeria “remains fluid and unpredictable”.

These observations are contained in the latest travel warning by the Bureau of Consular Affairs of the US Continued on page 2

PHOTOS: ABIODUN WILLAIMS

Fury of fire on Lagos Island

•A sympathiser at the scene...yesterday

•STORY ON PAGE 2

One dead, 40 injured, 10 vehicles burnt 10 houses razed Fashola raises posers

•Fire fighters battling to put out the fire...yesterday

•SPORT P23 •POLITICS P17 •EDUCATION P25 •E-BUSINESS P45 •N/HEALTH P47

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THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27 , 2012

NEWS Fury of fire in Lagos

Govt must dialogue with Boko Haram, says senator

A

SENATOR has told the Federal Government that there is no solution to the Boko Haram insurgency except dialogue with the sect.

According to Senator Abba Bukar Ibrahim, who was twice governor of Yobe State – which, along with Borno, is the epicentre of the activities of the sect – it will be difficult to fight and defeat the sect.

Boko Haram has claimed responsibility for bombings in which about 3,000 people have died.

The sect’s men have bombed churches, public institutions and telecommunication masts.

The government’s plan to go into dialogue with the sect was aborted because “the group is faceless”. The sect set conditions for the dialogue.

It named prominent Nigerians, including Senator Ibrahim and former Head of State Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, as mediators. It also proposed Saudi Arabia as venue of the talks.

R

ESCUE agencies battled for about six hours yesterday to put out a fire that followed a huge explosion in Jankara on Lagos Island.

The fire from a house where fire crackers were stored razed down the house and gutted other houses.

One person died; 40 were injured and millions of naira worth of property were lost.

Ten vehicles were burnt.

Five of the burnt cars belonged to customers who came to shop in the market.

Some of them fainted when they rushed out after the explosion to find their vehicles on fire.

The fire which started around 9:00a.m, could not be extinguished until around 5p.m.

The Lagos State Government dispelled speculations that it was caused by a bomb.

Hakeem Bello, Special Adviser to Governor Babatunde Fashola, in statement, assured “all residents of the state of their safety as they go about their normal businesses during the festive season.

“The reported explosion on Lagos Island was not caused by a bomb,” he said. Fashola later visited the scene.

Friends and family members of the dead, whose name was given as Muri Azeez, wept uncontrollably as the body was recovered from the inferno and taken away by men on rescue operation.

They said it only dawned on them that it was an inferno when the sound was persistent and electric polls started falling.

The fire, which an eyewitness said started at about 9:00 .a.m, was caused by firecrackers, popularly called “knockouts” or “bangers”, which were packed in a shop in Folawiyo House, at No. 45, Ojogiwa St., Idumota.

There is a police ban on the use of fire crackers by the police.

The leader of the community, Alhaji Olumegbon Isiaka, told NAN that one of the sellers lit a firecracker, which accidentally flew into a shop and detonated the packs inside, leading to numerous explosions and the fire which quickly spread to other buildings.

Isiaka confirmed the death of a 15-year-old boy in the fire, adding that as many as 40 people, who were injured, had been taken to the hospital.

The buildings affected are Martins House, Folami House,

•One of the fire crackers that caught fire on display...yesterday

Victims recount explosion

V

ICTIMS yesterday recounted the moment the explosion occured.

One of them asked: “How can somebody store about three trailer-load of ‘bangers’ in a residential area?”

“Importation of banger should be stopped,” he added.

Mr Emmanuel Agu, who sustained an arm injury, told The Nation that the fire started at about 9am.

He said: “I was inside my shop and heard an explosion, which I thought was a knockout. But when I noticed that our building was shaking, I started running. Unfortunately, I fell and one of the pillars from the top of the building fell on my hand.”

Agu said he was aware that fireworks were stored in the building by ‘Mr. Jossy’, who imports them.

He said: “I am aware the man stores fire crackers. Containers loaded with fire crackers were offloaded on weekly basis and people have been coming to buy in bulk. But I never knew the thing could be this deadly.”

Another victim, Ahmed Omolarun, said he ran for safety when he saw that the roof of his house was flying off.

He described the explosion as “the worst experience” he has had. He urged the Federal Government to ensure stiffer security at the borders

By Precious Igbonwelundu

Akib House, Gunsemade Plaza, Fashola House, Modupe House and Okoya House.

The Federal Fire Service, the Lagos Fire Service, the Police, the National Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Red Cross and the Lagos State Transport Management

and the ports.

He said: “Suddenly, we noticed there was an explosion. We thought it was the usual banger or that someone was throwing it closer to our house.

“But the next thing I noticed was that our window was flying out and before I knew it, there was total blackout. So, I ran with my family for safety because I thought the world was coming to an end. “ I saw all the electric poles on the streets were on the ground, that was when I got the real picture of what was happening.

“You can see that about 8-10 buildings have been burnt down by the fire.

“The fire service came here around 11am and since then, they have been doing their best to put out the fire.

“The government should tighten security on importation of goods.

“How can someone store about three trailer loads of banger in a residential area?

“Importation of banger should be stopped. That is not how to celebrate Christmas. So many people have been rendered homeless now and others have their sources of livelihood destroyed.

“There are many ways to celebrate Christmas without bringing sorrow to others,” Omolarun said.

An official of the Nigerian Security and Civil

Agency (LASTMA) were all at the scene of the fire. There were also military men.

Mr Sadiq Isa, who described himself as an official of the Lagos State government, said the explosion, which started the fire, was “like thunder”.

“We have not seen these kind of firecrackers before. They are more of explosives and the government should embark on a mission to rid the society of

Boko Haram (western education is a sin) said it wanted to islamise Nigeria.

Ibrahim told reporters in Abuja yesterday that the government should be committed to dialogue with the sect.

The member of the Board of Trustees of the All Nigeria People Party (ANPP) insisted that fighting the sect cannot stop the insurgency.

He insisted that the reason for the actions of the sect is inequality, neglect and injustice.

“These are fundamental issues, which every country should really embrace in order to have a permanent peace,” he said.

The senator vowed to do everything possible to ensure that peace returns to the country especially to the North, if the government is serious about dialogue.

“My advice to the Federal Continued on page 63

Fashola: how did the explosives come into the country?

L

AGOS State Governor Babatunde Fashola raised posers on “fire-crackers” that caused the fire when he visited the site of the incident yesterday.

Fashola said: “It is really unfortunate. It is another self-inflicted tragedy. All of these explosives came in through our borders where we have men and women stationed. How did they get in?

Who imported them? Who approved their importation? These are very serious questions we should ask.

“We must also ask ourselves: must we do every business?

Now, because somebody wants to make quick money, we have lost all these property and all of us are endangered. It calls for soul-searching and reflection.

“Does the way we do business benefit all of us? Should our attitude continue to be: so, long I make money; I don’t care if oth-

Continued from page 1

such.

“Any building found containing these fire crackers will be sealed immediately and anyone found with them will be prosecuted,” he said.

The police bomb squad also took samples of the explosives and left for further examination, it was observed.

Some of the buildings affected by the fire were demolished Continued on page 63

From Gbenga Omokhunu, Abuja

•Fashola

By Segun Balogun

er people die and lose properties?

“We have continued to improve on our capacity for emergency response and equip the fire service, set up the safety commission but that is much as we can do. People must now choose to obey laws and regulations.

“We have had too many fire incidents in spite of my appeal over the last two months that we are going into the dry season and people should resist the temptation to store flammable materials and explosives in the house.

“Two weeks ago, over a weekend, the fire service responded to twenty-two fire incidents, we can reduce that figure. Our officers can’t be in peoples’ homes checking who is storing fuel. People must now make commitment to their own safety.

“If this trend continues, a time will come when we would overwhelm the fire service. and once there is an error, the consequences are always devastating.

“If we enforce physical planning law, we are seen as a very tough government. If we make laws to safeguard lives and property, we are seen as anti-poor government. And some of the people who canvass this wrong notion are not here to witness this huge loss now. They are not here to pick up the body. We are the ones here to clear the mess.

“I came here now and the first appeal people are making is for me to ban the use of banger and other explosives.”

US to citizens: don’t visit Bayelsa, Delta, Edo, seven others Continued from page 1

Department of State.

The latest advisory has replaced the last one which was issued June 21.

The advisory reads in part: “The Department of State warns U.S. citizens of the risks of travel to Nigeria, particularly during the holiday season, and continues to recommend that U.S. citizens avoid all but essential travel to the following states because of the risk of kidnappings, robberies, and other armed attacks: Bayelsa, Delta, Edo, Plateau, Gombe, Yobe, Kaduna, Bauchi, Borno, and Kano states.

“The Department also warns against travel to the Gulf of Guinea because of the threat of piracy.

“Based on safety and security risk assessments, the Embassy has placed further restrictions for travel by U.S. officials to all northern Nigerian states (in addition to those listed above); officials must receive advance clearance by the U.S. Mission for travel as being mission-essential.

“U.S. citizens should be aware that, in light of the continuing violence, extremists may expand their operations beyond northern Nigeria to the country’s middle and southern states. This Travel Warning replaces the Travel Warning for Nigeria dated June 21, 2012.

“Kidnappings continue to be a security concern that exists throughout the country.

In the first six months of 2012, five foreign nationals, including two U.S. citizens, were kidnapped in Kwara, Imo, Enugu, Delta, and Kano states.

“Criminals or militants have abducted foreign nationals, including U.S. citizens from offshore and landbased oil facilities, residential compounds, and public roadways. Nine foreign nationals have died in connection with these abductions, including three who were killed by their captors during military-led raids.

“Local authorities and expatriate businesses operating in Nigeria assert that the number of kidnapping incidents throughout Nigeria is underreported.”

The US also gave its verdict on the increasing crime rate nationwide and alleged slow or no response of law enforcement agencies.

The advisory added: “Crime is a risk throughout the country. U.S. citizen visitors and residents have experienced armed muggings, assaults, burglaries, car-jackings, rapes, kidnappings, and extortion.

“Home invasions also remain a serious threat, with armed robbers accessing even guarded compounds by scaling perimeter walls, following residents or visitors or subduing guards to gain entry to homes or apartments.

“Armed robbers in Lagos have also accessed waterfront compounds by boat. U.S. cit-

izens, as well as Nigerians and other expatriates, have been victims of armed robbery at banks and grocery stores and on airport roads during both daylight and evening hours.

“Law enforcement authorities usually respond slowly or not at all and provide little or no investigative support to victims. U.S. citizens, Nigerians, and other expatriates have experienced harassment and shakedowns at checkpoints and during encounters with Nigerian law enforcement officials. “Traveling outside of major cities after dark is not recommended because of both crime and road safety concerns.”

The US also took note of the current attacks on telecom-

munications facilities nationwide and how these had impaired security management.

It said: “Beginning in September 2012, extremists attacked cellular telephone towers in Northern Nigeria, damaging over 50 towers and degrading cellular telephone and internet communications nationwide. “Additional atContinued on page 63

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

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

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THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

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NEWS JANKARA FIREWORKS EXPLOSION

•Cars burnt by the explosion...yesterday

•QUENCHING FIRE WITH PURE WATER: A man using satchet water to stop the fire from affecting his house

•Goods retrieved from the fire...yesterday

•Residents struggling to put out the fire...yesterday

•The crowd on the scene of the fire...yesterday.

•A group of youths watching the scene of the fire from a rooftop...yesterday.

•Emergency management officials putting heads together on how to quench the fire...yesterday.

•A crowd of sympatisers on the scene of the fire...yesterday.

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

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NEWS JANKARA FIREWORKS EXPLOSION

•A group of youths co-operating to quench the fire ...yesterday.

•Some youths battling the fire...yesterday.

•Goods rescued from the fury of the fire...yesterday.

•A crowd on the scene of the fire...yesterday.

•Ruins cuased by the explosion...yesterday.

•Emergency officials trying to put out the fire from a balcony...yesterday.

•Smoke billowings from building at Jankara...yesterday.

•Two boys scooping dirty water to quench the fire...yesterday.

PHOTOS: ABIODUN WILLIAMS

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

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NEWS 2012 IN REVIEW

Madalla... the pains have not gone with the year Two days ago marked the first anniversary of the Xmas Day bombing at the St Theresa’s Catholic Church, Madalla, Niger State. The families of the victims, who besieged their gravesite to mark the day, are yet to get over the pains

K

NEELING over a dusty grave on the outskirts of Nigeria’s capital, 16-year old Hope Ehiawaguan says a prayer, lays down flowers and tearfully tells her brother she loves him.

He was one of 44 killed on Christmas Day last year when a member of Islamist sect Boko Haram rammed a car packed with explosives into the gates of St Theresa’s Church in Madalla, Niger state, a satellite town 25 miles from the center of Abuja.

Boko Haram has killed hundreds in its campaign to impose sharia law in northern Nigeria and is the biggest threat to stability in Africa’s top oil exporter.

Two other churches were bombed that day and on Christmas Eve 2010 over 40 people were killed in similar attacks.

This Christmas, the police and military are expecting more trouble in the north. They’ve ordered security to be tightened, people’s movement restricted and churches to be guarded.

But such is the commitment to

religion in a country with Africa’s largest Christian population that millions of people will pack out thousands of churches in the coming days. It is impossible to protect everyone, security experts say.

“I feel safe,” Ehiawaguan says with uncertainty, when asked if she will come to church on December 25 this year.

“Not because of security here … because we have a greater security in heaven,” she says, wiping away her tears.

The blast in Madalla killed several people on the street and pulled down the church roof, condemning many of those trapped inside the burning building, including a 7month old boy.

A plaque listing the names of the members of the church who were killed has been placed above their graves. The twisted metal of the cars destroyed in the blast is still there.

“I only pray to God to give them a heart,” Ehiawaguan says, when asked about her brother’s killers.

Security experts believe Boko

•Relatives of the victims praying at their grave site on Christmas Day

Haram is targeting worshippers to spark a religious conflict in a country of 160 million people split roughly equally between Christians and Muslims.

Meanwhile, soldiers and plain clothes security men were today deployed to all roads leading to St Theresa Catholic Church, where suicide bombers killed scores of worshippers at the church exactly a year ago.

At a Christmas and commemorative service, the parish priest, Reverend Father Isaac Achi appealed to Christians to learn to forgive all those who deliberately hurt them.

Father Achi said those who perpetrate evil against the state and innocent citizens require prayers from Christian faithful’s.

He called on Christians to remain prayerful saying the power of prayer and love can overcome all situations.

The sect has also targeted Mosques in the past and assassinated Imams who have questioned its insurgency. In the group’s stronghold in the northeast, where most of its attacks occur, Muslims are equally at threat as Christians.

The fear for many is that more Christmas Day attacks could spark the sort of tit-for-tat sectarian violence between the mostly Muslim north and largely Christian south, which has claimed thousands of lives in the past de-

cade.

“We have always insisted that Christians should not retaliate,” said Sam Kraakevik Kujiyat, chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria in Kaduna State, one of the areas worst hit by inter-religious violence in recent years.

“But there is fear … we know not everyone who says he is a Christian acts like one.”

Churches were emptier than usual on Sunday in northern cities of Kano and Kaduna, local residents said.

Despite bolstered security in cities across the north, dual suicide bombers attacked the offices of mobile phone operators India’s Airtel and South Africa’s MTN in Nigeria’s second-largest city Kano on Saturday.

The bombers died but no civilians were killed.

No one took responsibility for the attacks but Boko Haram has targeted phone firms before because they say the companies help the security forces catch their members.

At least 2,800 people have died in fighting in the largely Muslim north since Boko Haram launched an uprising against the government in 2009, watchdog Human Rights Watch says.

Boko Haram has showed since its insurgency intensified more than two years ago that it can find weaknesses in defenses.

“One faction of Boko Haram has made several attempts to provoke violence between Christians and Muslims,” said Peter Sharwood Smith, Nigeria head of security firm Drum Cussac.

“Unfortunately, I think it is very possible we may see attacks of this type (Church bombings) again.”

Boko Haram is not the only threat in northern Nigeria. Islamist Group called Ansaru, known to have ties with Boko Haram, has risen in prominence in recent weeks. It claimed an attack on a major police barracks in Abuja last month, where it said hundreds of prisoners were released.

The group said on Saturday that it was behind the kidnapping of a French national last week and it has been labeled a “terrorist group” by Britain The Federal Government said 96 victims were affected by the Christmas day bomb blast.

Addressing reporters at the end of visits to University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Gwagwalada, National Hospital and State House Clinic Abuja , the Minister of Health, Prof.

Onyebuchi Chukwu said of the 96, 34 were confirmed dead.

He said: “The figures we have at the Federal Ministry of Health are the figures that have been gathered by the Rapid Medical Emergency Response team of the Federal Ministry of Health. So far, we have been able to identify 96 victims of that blast out of which 34 have been confirmed

‘How to ensure speedy justice for the detained’ A ‘ to house 33,348 inmates cur143 prisons originally built RGUABLY one of the impediments to obtaining speedy justice in Nigeria is the mode of detention of the accused persons in prison without trial.

Even for the inmates awaiting trial, human rights’ activists and civil society groups have observed that the prison conditions in the country are not conducive to rehabilitating them to be reintegrated into the society thereafter.

Past inmates also alluded to this observation as they claim that contrary to achieving rehabilitation and reintegration, accused are sent to prisons to suffer while most of them die physical or psychological deaths.

They state that it is shocking that aside overcrowding and rampant diseases among inmates, majority of the prisoners have not actually

rently holds more than 55,000 inmates. Out of this, more than 35,000 are awaiting trial and many of them have spent more than five years in custody while 9,900 have died while awaiting trial

By Olayemi Okeniyi, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

been convicted of any crime.

Corroborating their assertions, the Executive Secretary, National Human Rights Commission, Prof.

Bem Angwe, estimates that more than 70 per cent of prisoners are awaiting trial in prisons.

According to him, most prison-

’

ers are kept in jail because their case files are either missing or the Investigation Police Officer handling their cases have been transferred.

He also raised concern about overcrowding, saying “143 prisons originally built to house 33,348 inmates currently holds more than 55,000 inmates.

“Out of this, more than 35,000 are

awaiting trial and many of them have spent more than five years in custody while 9,900 have died while awaiting trial’’.

He described the detention of non-convicted persons and bad prison living conditions as direct violations of human rights.

“Prison congestion shows a reckless disregard of Section 35 of the

1999 Constitution which states that a person shall be tried within two months from the date of his detention,’’ he noted.

In an apparent response to various complaints arising from such issues, the Legal Aid Council was established pursuant to the promulgation of the Legal Aid Decree No. 56 of 1976 to render legal aid and access to justice to Nigerians.

Since its inauguration, one of the cardinal goals of the council is to decongest the prisons, according to the council Director-General, Mrs Joy Bob-Manuel who explained that providing free legal aid to the indigent to enhance equality before the law is among the priorities of the council.

For effectiveness, Bob-Manuel said the council established offices in every part of the country including the state capitals and local gov-

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

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NEWS 2012 IN REVIEW

•Mrs Chioma Dike, who lost husband and children to the blast

•A mother and her daugther: mourning a loved one

dead.”

“This hospital initially took four patients. One has left the hos-

pital with minor injury and another one was transferred to the National Hospital and remaining

two have fracture and today they are looking better. Only two patients are remaining at the Suleja

General Hospital. The Federal Government is going to take care of their bills.”

After going round the wards at the National Hospital, he said: “We are at the National Hospital and initially they brought in 29 victims. But when some other smaller hospitals started transferring, they got altogether 37 patients from the incident. Out of the 37 patients, 24 have now been discharged to be coming from home to the hospital as outpatients while 13 are presently on admission.”

“I have seen almost all the patients apart from those who have gone to the radiological department. They are undergoing further examinations there. I have seen those on their beds, some of them with head injuries. I have discussed with the management on plans for their further treatments and I am impressed with the plan they have. Many of them are doing well and they are even getting better. We have 23 bodies in the mortuary at the National Hospital. 21 of them are complete while the remaining two are incomplete.”

At the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Gwagwalada, the minister said: “The patients are doing well. One was brought in here dead. For the rest of the patients, they have lost one who had a major head injury. The skull was broken and the brain was gushing

ernment areas.

“We have opened law centres in 11 local governments; just as the Judiciary is opening Magistrates Courts, High Courts all over the place, we are trying to be closer to the people,’’ she said.

The council’s other functions include securing bail for accused persons in police custody and assisting widows in claiming their late husband’s inheritance.

According to her, securing the services of lawyers in the council is made easy though application.

She said that the council was in the process of applying for the Apprenticeship Scheme Fund through which young lawyers would be recruited to render free services.

To ensure speedy justice and prison decongestion, she said that the council was not overlooking the benefits of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) which, according to her, can reform Nigeria’s criminal justice system.

“ADR is one of the mechanisms

being put in place to reduce the number of people being remanded in prison custody to await trial.

“It gives complainants and the accused the opportunity to resolve cases with the help of legal aid without the drawn-out court process.

“ADR is an alternative way of resolving disagreements out of court; it is a new phenomenon in the world and we have to get up to speed with the rest of the world.

“We know that there are cases that are not criminal, which should be settled with the complainant.

“We have discussed how slow our court system is, ADR is an easier way and quicker way to resolve such problems,’’ she explained.

She said that often times, the window of opportunity to settle disputes was at the point of entry at the police station before charges were made.

She added that the council was targeting the window of opportu-

nity by working with the police to reduce unnecessary workload and the number of prisoners through ADR. “The Legal Aid Council has a memorandum of understanding with the police on the use of our lawyers and ADR; the council is trying to turn it into a force order,’’ she said.

Bob-Manuel also advised that the state attorneys-general should persuade governors to install software that could promote the quick transfer of information.

She explained that such technology would reduce the incidence of paperwork getting lost, which is often a cause for delay in an accused person’s trial.

She said the council was partnering with the police, law firms and other stakeholders to ensure the speedy dispensation of justice in Nigeria.

However, a legal consultant, Mr Anthony Agbonlahor, disagreed with Bob-Manuel on the effective-

ness of the council.

Agbonlahor said the council should have established offices in all the prisons, saying “ you cannot wait for somebody that is in prison to come and tell you about their problems’’.

He added that the process of determining if a person is a valid candidate for representation by the council, sometimes, worked to the detriment of the individual.

He cited the example of a person ejected by a landlord, saying if such a person applied to the council, the man’s property should have been thrown out before approval.

Agbonlahor, however, said the council needs to be more proactive, and not just wait for people to come and seek help before it makes inquiries on prison conditions.

He added that if the council could not go to the prisons, it could also consider putting offices in the high court registries of every court where cases are being filed in every state.

THE DEAD •Anthony Okoronkwo •Comrade Dike A. Williams •Emmanuel Dike •Richard Dike •Lillian Dike •Linda Chioma Obiukwu •Uche Q. Obiukwu •Chindinma Cythia Obiukwu •Ifeoma G. Obiukwu •Ann Chinedu Aigbadon •Chiemeri Nwachukwu •Cecilia Ebeku •Oluebube Faustina Pius •Chidera Sylvia Pius •Florence Nwachukwu •Eucharia Ewoh •Joseph Daniel •Inspector Titus Eze •Obasi Jonathan Onyebuchi •Ehiawaguan Peter •Uche Esiri •Sgt. Kadiri Danjuma •Unidentified person (5)

THE INJURED •Paulina Koju •Chukwudi Umeh •Christiana Kadiri •Esther Agbo •David Agbo •Hellen Okolo •Mercy Agbo •John Agbo •Obiukwu Uche Stella •Ebuka Abuyi •Celestine Aniowo •Michael Sunday •Lucy Unji •Chiamaka Obiukwu •Favour Dike •Chimaobi Dike •Favour Agbo •Maria Obodugo •Kosisochukwu Egbo •Nzubechukwu Pius •Obodo Linus •Austin Ogbugu •Chuks Ajuwe •Esther Ibu •Blessing Philip •Isaac Ibu •Kenedilim Aloysius •Innocent Okoronkwo •Chima Ohazurume •Justina Uche •Chinyere Amaechi •Ifeanyi Emenaba •Fidelia Onugwu •Chinyere Anthony •Sadiq Idris •Onyinyi Peace Eneh •Clara Iwuozor •Pauline Okoronkwo •Uche Bonaventure •Uche Michael •Lawal Abubakar •Victor James •Owen Sylvester •Danlamin Isah •Ali Sani •Edeh Christiana •Roseline Okeke •Chisom Eucharia Okoye •Chukwuebuka Obiakor •Jenifer Obiakor •Chidera Obiakor •Beatrice Otogo •Oliver Ogbona •Remmy Ofoha •Francis Raphael •Gabriel Christiana •Michael Nwanze •Achunike Okolo •Favour Ugochukwu •Nzube Pius •Uche Thaddeus •Tanko Mpan •Lucy Wumi •Dominic Mbeng •Agnes Justin Wadzani •Samuel Eze •Ugwu Calistus •Raphael Okoro •Jane Francis Mmadunacho •PC Ibrahim Gaita

out. They took the patient to the theatre but unfortunately that patient didn’t survive.

“But we now have 13 surviving patients. We have gone round and they are doing well, even the ones with almost 50 percent burns are doing quite well, I am impressed.

By next year, we will complete the traumatic centre under construction and equip it,” he said.

On February 1, amidst tears, families, friends and members of St Theresa’s Catholic Church, Madalla, buried victims of last Christmas day bomb blast.

The occasion nearly turned chaotic when the crowd that had assembled for the occasion booed the Emir of Suleja, Mallam Auwal Ibrahim, and prevented him from alighting from his car to deliver his goodwill message as requested by the Parish priest, Rev. Father Isaac Achi. After his arrival at the gate of the church, the emir was delayed for over 10 minutes before he was allowed inside the compound.

He stayed in the car while the church service for the victims was held. The emir, who was later called by Rev. Father Achi to come and give his goodwill message, was firmly rejected by the crowd with shouts of no!no!!

The crowd was restive and insisted that he must not make any speech.

•Parts of this report were culled from www.channelstv.com.

Lending his support for the need for speedy justice for the detainees, Pastor Kayode Williams who set up a prison rehabilitation project, said the prison authority should address the attitude of guards.

He holds that if prison conditions are not hostile, offenders would not harden their hearts further while awaiting trial in custody.

Observers say the purpose of the prison as a penitentiary is being rapidly defeated when detainees await trial for ever, and in the process, the accused become hardened criminals.

They note that in some cases, the accused may have spent more time than the stipulated penalty on conviction, while others would have even been adjudged innocent at the end of the day.

For prisons to contribute to human development therefore, stakeholders want the system to, remove all impediments to ensure quick but thorough justice.

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

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NEWS

Jonathan’s ‘Xmas message: PDP accuses CPC of mutiny

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HE Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has accused the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) of stirring public distrust and triggering mutiny against the PDP-led Federal Government.

The accusation is coming on the heels of criticisms of President Goodluck Jonathan’s ‘Xmas message, which received thumbs down from the CPC and other groups.

A statement issued yesterday by the National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Chief Olisa Metuh, said the CPC’s reaction was an evidence that the party was not ready to step down its philosophy of violence and vile communication module.

He said the intention of the CPC was to stir public distrust and trigger a flood of mutiny against the PDP-led Federal

Government, adding that such moves would suffer still birth.

Defending the President’s position as outlined in the message, Metuh said: “President Jonathan was correct when he declared in his Christmas message that he has the political will and determination to deliver on the party’s promise of positive changes in the living conditions of the people in the shortest possible time.

“That the gains of the party’s transformation programme will bear more fruits in the coming years.

“President Jonathan has invested in infrastructures, such as power, road and rail transport, security, agriculture, education, among others. While the maturity span of some of these infrastructures is long term and expected to yield benefits in the coming years, there

is evidence that steady gains are crystallising in sectors, such as power, education and rail transport.

“The CPC will be blind to this steady progress because constructive engagement is not the ultimate motivation of its criticisms.”

The PDP said further that the CPC’s standpoint that it has mismanaged the fortunes of the nation in the last 13 years flies against “the renewal of the PDP’s mandate” since 1999.

The statement said: “Even last year when the CPC took desperation to a criminal level, orchestrating an orgy of election violence that claimed many lives, Nigerians stood firm for the PDP in an election adjudged locally and internationally as the most credible in the nation’s recent record.

“This can only be true in the

Nigeria to develop MoU with Cameroon on Ladgo Dam

N

•Jonathan

diseased imagination of the CPC. The PDP has remained the only truly national party on whose shoulders revolves the unity of the nation. Need we say that a Nigeria in the hands of a political party like the CPC is on an express road to Somalia.

“Besides, the PDP met Nigeria a pariah state, retrieved and returned it to the centre stage of global reckoning. It is also on record that at a time the economy of the Western nations was hobbled by the global meltdown with banks collapsing, no bank in Nigeria suffered a similasr fate.”

•The Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Zakari Mohammed (second right); Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Baruten Local Government, Kwara State, Idris Buko (displaying keys); Chairman of Baruten Local Government, Alhaji Kora Sabi (third left); and Commissioner for Water Resources, Abubakar Idris (left), at Kosubosu, the headquarters of the local government, where Mohammed donated a bus to the PDP.

‘Opposition parties’ merger to be concluded by March’

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X-Yobe State Governor and member of the reconstituted merger committee of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), Senator Bukar Abba Ibrahim, yesterday said the deadline for the merger by the opposition parties to defeat the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2015 presidential election is next March.

He said the merger would not fail as many are insinuating.

Ibrahim spoke in Abuja at an interactive session with selected media on the Grassroots Leadership Quality in Africa award to be given to him by the Mo Ibrahim Foundation in South Africa on January 30.

He said: “The Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) has appointed its team, ANPP has appointed its own and I’m part of the committee.

We have met several times here. We have even toured the zones. We have toured the North- central. We are meeting our supporters in the North-central in Lafia.

We have addressed them and they cheered us on what

From Gbenga Omokhunu, Abuja

we’re doing. We were in Enugu (Southeast) for a day.

We shall visit other zones.

“Before next March, we shall have an accord on this merger. This is the deadline for the merger. ACN is doing a similar thing. The party I’m not too sure of what it is doing is the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC). But I learnt it is also meeting to set up its committee. From all indications, the opposition parties are looking forward to forming a new party where

they will come together as one entity. We are discussing with the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) through Imo State Governor Rochas Okorocha, on joining the coalition.

“We are also hoping that a caucus of the Labour Party will join us to form a new party. This plan appears to be more popular than any other arrangement and I believe there is still time to register the new party.”

On who will be the presidential candidate after the merger, Senator Ibrahim said: “Well, in politics, who gets what is always impor-

tant. But the most important thing for now is not who gets what but for us to get together, merge, get a new arrangement, under which anybody can look for whatever he wants.

“Since we are all in the opposition and we have been calling ourselves members of the progressives, we will join hands with others on the other side, the conservatives, to confront the PDP. I think it is healthy for our democracy to have at least two strong political parties.

I’m convinced this experiment will work this time round.”

‘Jonathan should address laxity in Judiciary’

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RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan has been urged to address the laxity in the Judiciary.

A retired civil servant, Chief Deji Fasuan, said this yesterday when he spoke with The Nation.

According to him, Nigeria has encouraged criminality through its lax judicial system.

He said: “The greatest New Year gift the President can give Nigerians is a reformed judiciary.”

The octogenarian, who retired as a permanent secretary in the old Ondo State, said:

From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

“Nigeria will remain undeveloped unless the virus of corruption is dealt a big blow.

“Judiciary needs a revolution from within and if this does not occur, the Federal Government should impose a standard on it.

“The solution is that the National Judicial Commission (NJC) should not be headed by the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN). It is an anomaly for the CJN to superintend over the NJC. In that context, he or she is simply the judge in his or her own court.”

IGERIA is prepared to develop a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Cameroon on the management of water from Ladgo Dam, an official told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) yesterday.

The official at the Federal Ministry of Water Resources told NAN in Abuja that the technical mission to Cameroon on the issue of Ladgo Dam would visit the country between today and tomorrow to discuss modalities for managing water resources.

NAN recalls that unregulated water released from Ladgo Dam located 50km south of the City of Garoua on the Benue River caused heavy flooding in Nigeria in September.

The official said the visit would create an avenue for the two countries to discuss how the water resources of the Benue basin should be managed in a sustainable and less disastrous manner.

“What informed the decision to visit Cameroon is as a result of the September floods. One of the causes of the floods, besides excessive rainfall, was the unregulated release of water from Ladgo Dam. “What we will do with the visit is to establish a bilateral cooperation that will lead to a sustainable management of water resources of the Benue Basin.

“We are going there in preparation for the rainy season so that people will not say that Nigeria is not prepared in case of any reccurrence of floods.”

“We are going there with

a draft copy of the MoU on how to achieve sustainable management of the water resources,” the official said.

According to the official, Cameroon has set up a team of experts which has also prepared an MoU for the same purpose.

The official said the MoUs from the two countries would be presented at the meeting, adding that if the parties agreed on the issues raised, it would be signed.

In addition, the official said the visit would provide an avenue to discuss possible collaboration on the safety and management of Lake Nyos.

The lake lies close to the axis of the Cameroon volcanic line, which extends 1,500km from the Gulf of Guinea through south-western Cameroon and into northern Nigeria and northern Cameroon.

The UN Environment Programme and Office of the Human Affairs inaugurated a study on the lake in September 2005 and the findings indicated that Lake Nyos might collapse within five to 10 years.

The imminent collapse of the lake will send over 30 million cubic metres (MCM) of water into Katsina Ala River in Nigeria all the way down through Benue and Niger River systems.

However, the Federal Government has begun the building of Kasmbilla Dam, designed to serve as a buffer dam to avert the danger posed by Lake Nyos in Cameroon.

The dam project, located in Taraba, is expected to be completed next year.

MMA domestic airfield lighting installed

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HE airfield lighting of the domestic runway of the Murtala Muhammed Airport (MMA), Ikeja, Lagos, was yesterday inaugurated for flights, bringing to end the fiveyear flight restriction of daylight operations at the facility.

With the inauguration of the facility, the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has deployed an emergency airfield lighting in the popular 2.7 km Runway 18 Left.

Absence of the airfield lighting on the runway for half a decade, has forced the domestic airlines to land after sunset at the international wing, thereby burning extra fuel to taxi down to their various terminals before disembarking passengers.

According to the General Manager, Public Affairs of NAMA, Mr. Supo Atobatele, the completion and deployment of the safety critical facility was made possible through the commitment of government and the efforts of the Minister of Aviation, Princess Stella Oduah.

He said: “In all, 66 CALKIT brand of emergency airfield and additional two approach lights were deployed by six NAMA engineers working through Monday night and rounding off ear-

ly on Tuesday morning.

“The facility is of combined omni-directional runway edge light, light emitting diode (COREL LED), portable lighting system with end lights.

“Engineers that made the installation possible include: the General Manager, Airfield Lighting, Mr. Taiwo Makinwa, Mr. Muyiwa Adegorite, SA to MD/CE, Mr. Charles Iroro, Mr. Anjorin Alaba, Atiku Abubakar and Mr. Amechi.”

Speaking on the development, the Managing Director of the agency, Mazi Nnamdi Udoh, hailed the engineers who defied family pressure during the Yuletide to deliver the deployment of “this vital navigational facility on the runway.”

He said: “We are grateful to the Federal Government, especially the Minister of Aviation, who took the initiative to transfer this safety critical operation to NAMA earlier in the year and withstood pressure to sustain the successes recorded in the industry.

“With this latest achievement, we can say travellers should expect more deployment of modern equipment to drive our vision of quality delivery at airports across the country in the New Year.”

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

9

NEWS 'Why Ondo Accord Chairman was removed' From Damisi Ojo, Akure

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HE Accord in Ondo State yesterday explained why it removed its Chairman, Dr Ajibola Faleye.

In a statement by its Acting Chairman, Mr. Olarewaju Olaniran, the party said it could no longer take the "public embarrassment and condemnation that greeted Faleye's anti-party activities and defection to the Labour Party (LP)".

Accord said even if Faleye had a personal quarrel with the party's governorship candidate in the October 20 election, Mr. Olawale Ojo, he should not have gone to the extreme of giving evidence against the party at the Election Petition Tribunal.

It said Faleye's anti-party activities are unprecedented in Nigeria's politics, adding that it was unheard of for a "seating chairman" of a party to take sides with the opposition at the Election Petition Tribunal.

The Accord said Faleye's "unilateral action" of "purportedly" expelling Ojo is an affront on the rule of law.

The party said when Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi was in court to claim his mandate, and the People's Democratic Party (PDP) expelled him, the Supreme Court punished the PDP by imposing Amaechi on the PDP as its standard bearer and Governor of Rivers State.

It said it would not wait for the Supreme Court before redirecting the party on the path of the rule of law.

Oyo partners UI on quality control in schools

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HE Oyo State Government has partnered the University of Ibadan (UI) on the inspection of public schools.

Commissioner for Education Mrs. Adetokunbo Fayokun said the partnership would ensure quality control in schools.

In a statement yesterday, Mrs. Fayokun said the state has started reaping the dividends of the education summit organised earlier in the year by her ministry.

She said most of the recommendations made at the summit had been implemented, adding that there is improvement in the education sector.

The commissioner said the recommendations that have been implemented include the introduction of extension classes and unified mock examinations for SSS III pupils and the stoppage of mass promotions in public schools.

She said the government has awarded the contract for the provision of 100,000 furniture in schools, adding that over 2,000 schools had been renovated by the Governor Abiola Ajimobi administration.

Mrs. Fayokun said the government has paid the WAEC fees of SSS III pupils and effected teachers’ promotion, which had been stagnated since 2006.

She said these led to the improved performance of pupils in public examinations.

The commissioner said Oyo’s ranking in the WAEC examination has improved from the 34th position to 23rd within nine months.

ALGON chief hails Ajimobi on projects From Bisi Oladele, Ibadan

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HE Chairman of the Oyo State branch of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Mr. Yekeen Popoola, has praised Governor Abiola Ajimobi for executing projects that have a direct impact on the people.

Popoola, in his Christmas message, said the massive road repairs, beautification, construction of markets and public toilets, among others, by the Ajimobi administration has given the people many reasons to celebrate.

The Irepo Local Government Chairman urged people to celebrate by showing love to one another and avoid any act that can breach the peace enjoyed in the state.

He said peace has been the hallmark of the Ajimobi administration.

Popoola urged public office holders to emulate Ajimobi by embarking on people-oriented projects and programmes and shunning corruption.

He urged the people to support the governor, who he said was passionate about developing the state.

Lam Adesina: ACN thanks all

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HE Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in Oyo State has thanked the public for their support to the family of the late Alhaji Lam Adesina.

Adesina died on November 11 at St. Nicholas Hospital, Lagos, at 73.

In a statement by its Publicity Secretary, Mr. Dauda Kolawole, ACN thanked everyone who attended the late Adesina’s 40th day prayers.

It particularly acknowledged the presence of the party’s National Chairman, Chief Bisi Akande; the National Leader, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu; Governors Abiola Ajimobi (Oyo), Babatunde Fashola (Lagos), Rauf Aregbesola (Osun), Kayode Fayemi (Ekiti), Ibikunle Amosun (Ogun) and Adams Oshiomhole (Edo).

It also thanked former Governors Olusegun Osoba (Ogun) and Niyi Adebayo (Ekiti); former Deputy Governor Iyiola Oladokun (Oyo); former Secretary to the Oyo State Government Michael Koleosho; lawmakers and government officials for their support.

ACN thanked the party’s leaders and members for remaining united after Adesina’s demise.

O

Amosun, cleric urge youths on nation building

GUN State Governor Ibikunle Amosun and an Islamic scholar, Prof. Daud Noibi, have urged youths to contribute to the development of the nation.

They said youths are the future of the country and must submit themselves to the teaching of God. They spoke yesterday at the opening of the Islamic Vacation Course (IVC), organised by the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN), B Zone, at the IVC permanent site in Imolisa, Ogun State.

The theme of the course is: ‘The Covenant’.

Amosun, who was represented by his Deputy Chief of Staff, Alhaji Afolabi Salisu, urged youths to generate constructive ideas.

He said: “It is your responsibility as ambassadors of Allah to ensure sanity in

campuses and avoid violence. The Muslim society can only be proud of you when you come out with high grades and contribute to the progress of your various states and Nigeria.”

Prof. Noibi, who is the executive secretary of the Muslim Ummah of Southwest Nigeria (MUSWEN), emphasised the need for youths to stand out as role models and be devoted to the teaching of Allah.

He said: “Despite the high number of Muslim faithful in Nigeria, there is a low number of Muslim professionals, so you must work hard to become professionals to contribute constructively, protect and defend the Muslim community.”

He said youth restiveness contributed to the insecurity in the country and urged the government to empower youths, especially at the grassroots.

Prof. Noibi said: “The neglect of this segment of the population is the result of the palpable insecurity that has become the order of the day.

It is disheartening to note that youths, who are regarded as leaders of tomorrow, have

become a threat to the progress of our country. As a result of joblessness, many youths have become armed robbers, terrorists and political thugs.”

The cleric said development can only be achieved in a peaceful atmosphere, where youths are engaged in productive ventures.

The Zonal Coordinator, MSSN, B-Zone, Mallam Mushafu Alaran, said the lecture was to reawaken youths to their responsibilities. He said 7,000 youths were at the event.

Activist, wife for burial tomorrow

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HE remains of the late activist, Comrade Abiodun Kolawole and his wife, Cecilia, who died in a road crash on Sunday will be buried tomorrow at Eken Meje, Kwara

State.

A solidarity night in their honour will hold at the Comrade Ola Oni Centre, in Osogbo, the Osun State capital, today.

THE NATION THURDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

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NEWS

Cleric hails Aregbesola on performance •Governor preaches love

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HE General Evangelist of the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) worldwide, Prophet Samuel Abiara, has hailed the achievements of the Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola administration in the last two years.

Abiara spoke yesterday at the Government House in Osogbo, the state capital, when he visited the governor.

He said the achievements of the Aregbesola administration should be celeberated by all Nigerians, regardless of political affiliation.

Abiara said the administration has built roads, created jobs through the Osun Youth Empowerment Scheme (OYES) and maintained a clean environment, among others.

The cleric, who hails from Erinmo, said the administration’s social security scheme for the elderly is “reminis-

From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

cent of what Christ lived for, which is to show compassion to the people”.

He said: “I have come to say hello and thank you for the good work you have been doing. The general cleaning of the expressway, the environmental cleaning in the state, the road constructions, employment opportunities and all the wonderful things done by your administration are worthy of commendation.

“A lot of people have been praising your administrative style and achievements. My visit is to greet you on the Christmas celebration and thank you for what you have been doing for the people.

“Christ left a legacy of good work, which people still talk about today. I believe the good works you have embarked upon are also legacies that will remain

• Abiara and Aregbesola...yesterday.

after your tenure expires.”

Aregbesola said the birth of Jesus Christ preaches love, compassion and sacrifice, adding that anyone who aspires to be like the

Messiah must live a Christlike life.

He said: “Christ came to demonstrate the undiluted love of God for humanity.

Christ came to demonstrate

compassion and sacrifice. So when we mark Christmas, we are celebrating love, compassion and sacrifice.”

On the urban renewal programme of his administra-

tion, the governor urged those whose property were demolished not to see it as an attempt to punish them, but as a sacrifice that must be made to improve the state.

‘Ekiti council reforms laudable’

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CHIEFTAIN of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in Ekiti State, Mr. Olufemi Awe, has hailed the local government reforms of the Governor Kayode Fayemi administration.

Awe, who is the Caretaker Chairman of Irepodun/ Ifelodun Local Government Area, said the restructuring is the solution to the problems of the councils.

He said: “It is timely. The way the Local Government System was being run before had sentenced the grassroots people to perpetual underdevelopment.”

Awe spoke yesterday in Iyin Ekiti while presenting four vehicles, six motorcycles and other items valued at nearly N4.5 million to some indigenes of the town.

Lamenting the level of poverty at the grassroots, the council boss said: “The empowerment drive, which has been eloquently and consistently championed by the governor through the monthly gift of N5,000 to 20,000 senior citizens and other programmes in health, is sufficient lesson for other political office holders on responsible governance.”

On the audit of council workers, Awe said “no one, who has not faulted in any way, would be sacked or retired”.

He said: “Transparency has brought Ekiti to this unparalleled level of development in just two years. No one says the opposition should not criticise this administration, but to condemn a brilliant and sincere move, such as

From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

the staff audit, is to attempt to put the myopic interest of a partisan bigot above general interest.

“The ousted Segun Oni administration started the audit but, lacking the political will to drive it through, dropped the idea.

This administration saw the need to implement it and went ahead to do so.

“The Fayemi administration cannot continue to endure redundancy and other miscellaneous ills in councils. Moves are ongoing to transfer redundant workers to places where they can be gainfully engaged for better productivity.”

•From right: Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun, former President Olusegun Obasanjo and his wife, Bola, at the 2012 Ibogun Olaogun Day celebration in Ogun State... yesterday.

Land dispute: Governor urged to ignore petition

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LAND agent, Kamorudeeen Lamina, has denied allegations that he was involved in a murder case.

Lamina said he never invaded Igbokuta, Ogun State, with thugs.

The allegations were made by the law firm of A. G. Giwa-Amu, on behalf of the Akinrele and Ajala families in a petition to Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola.

Lamina was appointed agent of the village land by the Ogunbanwo family, an appointment the Akinrele and Ajala families disputed.

This led to a prolonged legal battle, which ended last year at the Court of Appeal.

By Eric Ikhilae

In a rejoinder, Lamina, represented by Falana Chambers, urged the governor to “discountenance all spurious allegation raised in the petition”. Lamina’s lawyers said the petition was written to “harass, blackmail and witch-hunt” their client.

They said the report of the police investigation into the murder absolved Lamina of any crime.

The lawyers said: “A certified true copy of the legal advice from the Office of the Attorney-General of Ogun State, dated September 13, 2011, and addressed to the Commissioner of Police, ‘D’ Department (CID), Eleweran, Abeokuta, con-

cluded that Lamina was not connected with the murder.

“Consequently and upon closing the case, the police forwarded the file to the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP), Ogun State and the advice of the DPP exonerated Lamina.

“On the land case, the Lagos High Court, Ikorodu Division, gave a judgment two years ago, declaring Lamina the authentic agent appointed by the Ogunbanwo family and the person entitled to the grant of statutory customary rights of occupancy over the expanse of land situated at Igbokuta village, delineated on survey plan No IMS/LS/ Y2627/10.

“Not satisfied with the judgment, the Akinrele and Ajala families appealed in suit No ID 32/08.

“The appeal was dismissed by Justice M.A. Danjuma of the Court of Appeal in a judgment delivered on October 27, 2011.

The court also awarded damages against the appellant. It ordered the appellant to pay N20,000 to the first respondents and N10,000 to the second respondents.

“The judgment of the High Court and dismissal of the case for the second time on appeal clearly confirms that Chief Nosiru Tajudeen, the traditional ruler of Igbokuta, and his family are the authentic owners of Igbokutaland.”

Artificial fuel scarcity hits Osun From Adesoji Adeniyi, Osogbo

Fuel scarcity was yesterday experienced in Osun State.

The scarcity may not be unconnected with the hoard of petroleum products by dealers.

Many independent marketers did not open and there were long queues at the few petrol stations that were open.

In Osogbo, the state capital, manypetrol stations did not sell fuel to customers until later in the evening.

A litre of petrol was sold at between N110 and N120.

The Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Mega Station on Ring Road, Osogbo, was the only petrol station that sold petrol at the official price of N97 per litre.

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

11

BUSINESS THE NATION

E-mail:- bussiness@thenationonlineng.net

NIA, NSC collaborates to form insurance clubs

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R Remi Olowude, Chairman, Nige rian Insurers Association (NIA), has said the association was collaborating with the Nigerian Shippers Council (NSC) to form insurance clubs.

He told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos that the collaboration would be in the area of growing both industries and forming Protection and Indemnity Insurance Clubs.

Olowude said the NIA would help to introduce clubs where members from both associations would regularly meet to do business.

He said that the clubs would help to monitor developments in the maritime subsector in Nigeria and also track developments in maritime international conventions.

“It is my conviction that this kind of collaboration will help to develop marine insurance.

“The clubs will also assist to protect maritime risks premiums and facilitate receipt of claims,” Olowude said.

He said the uploading of marine insurance policies on the Nigerian Insurance Industry Database (NIID) would be made easier through the clubs.

According to him, the second phase of the NIID project would mainly focus on the uploading of marine insurance policies.

He disclosed that Motor and Mari)e Insurance policies were being given priority in the first phase of the NIID uploading of data project because of the “magnitude of fraud in those areas’’.

“The volume of fake insurance certificates which businessmen in those two areas are parading compelled us to give attention to them so as to reduce such crime,’’ Olowude said.

Risk management could entail avoiding the risk completely, reducing the negative impact of the risk through risk mitigation actions, transfering or sharing the risks with other parties and retaining the risk ie accepting some or all the consequences of the risk and budgeting for it.

- Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, CBN Governor

Nigeria’s power generation to exceed 7,000mw next year M F

ATSSSAN berates Reps on Dana, NCAA By kelvin Osa-Okunbor

OLLOWING the target set by the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC), which superintends the National Integrated Power Projects (NIPP), to generate 4,264 megawatts (MW) by 2013, Nigeria’s power generation will exceed 7,000 MW by next year.

The Special Adviser (Technical) to the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of NDPHC, Cyprain Nwachukwu, an engineer, while giving the status of the company and its 2013 plan, disclosed that the company will complete all gas turbine projects under the NIPP in 2013, which will generate a total of 4,264MW. Currently, the NIPP facilities are generating 1,687MW into the national grid.

Nwachukwu said that out of the 1687MW, Olorunsogo power plant generates 562.5MW, while Omotosho

By Emeka Ugwuanyi

and Sapele generate 450MW each and Alaoji 225MW. The Assistant General Manager, Public Affairs of Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), Dave Ifabiyi, had recently issued a statement saying that Nigeria generates 4,349.7 MW including the 1687MW from NIPP, which shows that 2662.7MW comes from the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) stations.

Therefore, with 4264MW expected from NIPP and 2662.7MW currently being generated from PHCN and over 500MW expected to be recovered from Egbin and other power stations, generation will be well over 7000MW next year.

Nwachukwu said: “Our plan for 2013 is completion of all gas turbine projects, which will give the country 4,264MW. We will also

follow up the outstanding combined cycle for Alaoji, which is 510MW. As at December 7, 2012, five units of 112.5MW each from Olorunsogo were wheeling power into the national grid, while four units of 112.5MW each from Omotosho and Sapele were generating and Alaoji was also generating from two units, which is 225MW.” He also noted that the NDPHC would also follow up the completion of transmission projects including 2,194Km 330KV lines & 5,640MVA 330/132KV substation and 809Km 132KV lines & 3.433MVA 132/33KV substation.

Others include follow up on the completion of distribution projects including 3,540MVA plus 2,600Km & 1,700Km at 11KV & 33KV lines respectively. We will complete gas projects and

conclude all Gas Sales Aggregator Agreements (GSAA) and Gas Transmission Agreements (GTA), he added.

We also prepared to receive and commence the implementation of the Transaction Adviser’s recommendation when approved by the Board.

Nwachukwu also noted the challenges the NDPHC had, which include two-three year suspension of the NIPP projects and resulted in delay of the projects and attracted extra cost.

Gas supply is another challenge he identified which may impeded supply because generation from thermal power stations is subject to availability of gas. Other challenges include security and community issues where the projects are located as well as port clearing coordination challenges and contractor performance problems.

MMA domestic airfield lighting inaugurated By kelvin Osa-Okunbor

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EMBERS of the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association (ATSSSAN), have expressed disappointment over the dissemination of wrong information to the public by the House of Representatives Committee on Aviation, who they said have become pseudo experts on critical aviation matters, affirming that such misinformation has negative impact on the integrity of safety in Nigeria.

A statement signed by the national president of ATSSSAN Comrade Benjamin Okewu, confirmed that the global aviation regulator, International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), recommends the eligibility requirements and qualification for designation of inspectors .

This requirement, Okewu said is implemented by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority(NCAA), in areas of airworthiness and operations in the discharge of regulatory and oversight duties.

“An Inspector that is rated on a Boeing 727-200 Series for instance is very qualified to inspect an MD 83. He needs not be rated on the MD 83. This is because the MD 83 and the Boeing 727200 and some other aircraft types are similar in the area of design, engines, avionics, instruments and other configurations. This is called alternative means of compliance”.

• From left: Mr. Emmanouil Revmatas, Business Head, Hand Held Products ; Miss Okikolu Olajumoke, Marketing Manager; Mr. Brovo Kim, Managing Director and Mr. Daesong Na, Business Leader, Hand Held Products all from Samsung Electronics West Africa at the Samsung Breakfast Meeting with the media which held at Westown Hotel, Lagos.

IFAD spends $447,000 on agric project in Cross River

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ROSS River has accessed 447,000 dol lars from the International Fund for Agriculture Development (IFAD) for projects since 2006, the State Programme Officer, Mr Innocent Ogbin, said.

Ogbin told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in an interview in Calabar that the amount represented 40 per cent of the total project cost.

He said that the lack of prompt payment of counterpart funds from contributory partners was responsible for the low level of implementation of IFAD programmes in the state.

“So far, we have been able

to draw down 447,000 dollars from IFAD to date and that is just over 40 per cent.

We still have more than over 50 per cent yet to draw.

“And the reason is because of low commitment in terms of counterpart funding, ‘’ he said.

Ogbin said that the state government had paid N154 million as counterpart funding between 2006 and 2011 but had yet to pay for 2012.

“The state is doing very well, the state’s yearly contribution is N45 million, which they have paid upto 2011, as at today, the state is 75 per cent compliant. “ But the huge challenge lies with the local govern-

ment councils. Incidentally, this takes about 45 per cent of the entire project funding.

“So you can agree that if you take away 45 per cent funding in the project, the remaining 55 per cent cannot complete the project.

That is a huge challenge, ‘’ Ogbin said.

He, however, said that an agreement had been reached for the funds to be deducted at source from the accounts of the nine councils involved in the project.

“But now we have been able to get the commitment of local government councils involved. And they are in line with the agreement that this fund should be de-

ducted from their allocations.

“We hope that by the first quarter of 2013, these funds would be paid, ‘’ Ogbin said.

He said that his office had devised a means of taxing the benefiting communities in order to augment the lack of payment of counterpart funds by the councils.

He further said that in spite of the shortcoming by the councils, they were still asking for more projects in their communities.

“The councils are equally asking for expansions of the projects to more communities which we had recommended in the last review mission, ‘’ he added.

HE air field lighting of the domestic runway of the Murtala Muhammed Airport, Ikeja, Lagos was yesterday commissioned for flights, thereby bringing to an end the five year flight restriction of day light operations at the facility.

With the commissioning of the facility ,the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has deployed an emergency airfield lighting on the popular 2.7 km Runway 18 Left.

Absence of the airfield lighting on the runway, for half a decade had forced the domestic airlines to land after sunset at the international wing ,thereby burning extra fuel to taxi down to their various terminals before disembarking passengers.

According to the general manager , public affairs of NAMA, Mr Supo Atobatele, the completion and deployment of the safety critical facility was made possible through the commitment of government as well as the efforts of the minister of aviation, Princess Stella Oduah.

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

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NEWS Ogun PDP: Court restrains INEC

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FEDERAL High Court in Lagos has restrained the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), its agents and privies from preventing the Adebayo Dayoled State Executive Committee (Exco) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ogun State from attending the National Working Committee (NWC) and the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meetings.

Specifically, the court, in a ruling delivered by Hon. Justice C. J. Aneke, restrained INEC, PDP, the National Secretary, Olagunsoye Oyinlola; the National Publicity Secretary, Chief Olisa Metuh; the National Organising Secretary, Alhaji Abubakar Mustapha and National Legal Adviser, Victor Kwon “from preventing the Applicants from participating in the National Executive Committee, National Working Committee meetings and all other activities at the National Headquarters of the second Defendant which they are entitled to attend and participate in by the provisions of the constitution of the second defendant (PDP), pending the hearing and determination of the Motion on Notice attached hereto.”

The court also granted an order of interim injunction “restraining the second Defendant, by itself, its members, national officers, including the 3rd to 6th Defendants, Servants and Privies from continuing to refuse recognition to the Plaintiffs/Applicants as officers of the Ogun State Executive Committee of the second Defendant or in anyway whatsoever denying them the facilities they are entitled to at the National Headquarters of the second Defendant by reason of the constitution of the second Defendant, pending the hearing and determination of the Motion on Notice attached hereto.”

The court adjourned hearing of the Motion on Notice till January 2.

Imo paramilitary officers T petition Jonathan HE Imo State chapter of the National Association of Retired Paramilitary Officers (NARPO) has petitioned President Goodluck Jonathan and Imo State Governor Rochas Okorocha over alleged non-payment of the 53.7per cent pension increment approved for retired pensioners by the Federal Government in 2010.

Addressing reporters on their plight in Owerri, the state capital, Chairman of the retirees, Mr. Jabez Abaa, and their Secretary, Mr. Sunday Kanu, said those on the Unified Paramilitary Salary Structure (UPSS) have not been listed in the Harmonised Police/Paramili-

•Protest non-payment of pensions From Okodili Ndidi, Owerri

tary Salary Structure (HAPPSS).

They noted that even those who retired at the inception of the HAPPSS were still paid on the basis of UPSS scale.

This, the petitioners said, has resulted in short payment of their entitlements.

They alleged that in the last 15 years, despite various reviews in the pension scale, none has been implemented in their

pensions.

The aggrieved pensioners said they had not been paid the latest Consolidated Paramilitary Salary Scale Structure (CONPASS).

The petition reads: “In July 2010, Your Excellency approved a salary increment of 87.37per cent for serving officers and men, and 53.7per cent for pensioners. Up to this time of our writing, we have not been paid while the serving officers have

continued to enjoy the increment. We have a right to live in our old age but the ineffectiveness of the pension board has brought untold hardship on pensioners.”

The retirees blamed their woes on the ineffectiveness of the Customs, Immigration and Prisons Pension Office (CIPPO).

They added that the office needs to be reorganised to make it efficient.

Enugu group alleges neglect in federal appointments

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PRESSURE group, Enugu North Patriots, yesterday decried the alleged marginalisation of the senatorial district in federal appointments.

The group called for a balancing of the political equation for the good of all.

President of the group, Ben Uroko, spoke in Abuja.

He said: “Since 1999, Enugu East produced seven ministers and ambassadors; Enugu West produced four ministers and ambassadors; Enugu North, with 48 per cent population and 52 per cent of registered voters in Enugu State, did not produce any minister but only two ambassadors.

“Dubem Onyia was the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs from 1999 to 2003. He hails from Udi Local Government in Enugu West.

“Frank Nweke Junior, was Minister for Special Duties, 2003–2005; he is from Nkanu East Local Government, Enugu East Senatorial District; “Mrs Akuabata Njeze, Minister of State for Defence, 2007–2009, Udi, Enugu West; Mrs

From Sanni Onogu, Abuja

Akuabata Njeze, Minister of Aviation, 2009–2011, Udi, Enugu West; Prof.

Barth Nnaji, Minister for Power, 2011–2012, Nkanu East, Enugu East; Amb. Goddy Agbo, Japan, 2003– 2007, Enugu South, Enugu East; Amb. Goddy Agbo, Japan, 2007–2011, Enugu South, Enugu East; Amb. Kingsley Ebenyi, Spain, 2007–2011, Isi–Uzo, Enugu East; Amb. Fidel Ayogu, Uganda, 2007– 2011, Igbo-Eze North, Enugu North; Amb. Akuabata Njeze, Switzerland, 2011–till date, Udi, Enugu West; Amb. Goddy Agbo, Japan, 2011 – till date, Enugu East.”

Uroko said Emma Eze, from Udenu in Enugu North Senatorial District, served as Nigeria’s Ambassador to Zambia and Tanzania.

Eze was the only ambassador the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) appointed, the group’s leader said.

He added that Amb. Fidel Ayogu was appointed in the quota to the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP).

•Cross section of members of the late Gen. Owoye Andrew Azazi’s family at a service of songs for him at Harbour Point, Lagos...yesterday.

•From left: Bayelsa State Governor Seriake Dickson; his Delta State counterpart, Dr Emmanuel Uduagha; and former Group Managing Director of United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, Mr Tony Elumelu, at a service of songs for the late Gen. Azazi in Lagos.

PHOTOS: ISAAC JIMOH

Ngige to Christians: love one another

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ORMER Anambra State Governor and Senator representing Anambra Central, Dr. Chris Ngige, has urged Nigerians, especially Christians, to love one another and eschew hatred and bitterness.

The senator noted that this is necessary to create the right atmosphere for the progress of the nation, the states and their locality.

In a Christmas message, Ngige hailed Nigerian Christians for their perseverance, tolerance and spirit of forgiveness, despite the provocation by those he said wanted to “ignite a religious war in the country”.

He urged Nigerians to be hopeful because Senate committees, such as those on Power, Education, Federal Character, Health and Police Affairs, would make the nation better through their oversight functions.

Ngige said all hands must be on deck so that corruption could be reduced.

According to him, if corruption is tackled, any welfare programme will get to the masses.

Uduaghan weeps at service of songs for Azazi

D

ELTA State Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan yesterday wept for the late former National Security Adviser (NSA), Gen. Owoye Andrew Azazi.

The occasion was the service of songs for the late General at Harbour Point, Victoria Island, Lagos.

The governor broke down as he led dignitaries to sing a hymn for the late Azazi.

He said the deceased served the country well within and outside the Army.

Dignitaries from parts of the country attended the event.

They include the Chief of Defence Staff, Admiral Ola Sa’ad Ibrahim, who represented

•Late General to be interred at Ijaw Heroes’ Park

By Precious Igbonwelundu

President Goodluck Jonathan; Bayelsa State Governor Seriake Dickson; former NSA, Col. L. K. K. Areh; Business mogul, Alhaji Aliko Dangote; Chief of Army Staff, Gen. Azubuike Ihenjirika and Senator Andy Uba. Others are: former Chiefs of Defence Staff, Air Chief Marshalls Paul Dike and Oluseye Peterin; former Chief of Naval Staff, Allison Maduaeke; Managing Director, Bank of Industry (BOI), Ms. Evelyn Oputu; Chairman, Silverbird Group, Ben Bruce; as well as Chairman, Heirs Hold-

ings Limited, Mr Tony Elumelu.

Ibrahim said Azazi was a major pillar for the success in tackling insecurity in the country.

He said: “In him, I enjoyed respite in tackling the security challenges. Infrastructure means different things to a lot of us.

“The emergence of Boko Haram caught all of us flatfooted due to inappropriate infrastructure to tackle the situation. But Gen. Azazi did not give up.

“Although it was in his nature to smile always, those radiant smiles did not come often during those Boko Haram

insurgencies. We were looking forward to celebrating our major breakthrough with him, but he is no more. With his demise, a big part of us has gone.”

Dickson noted that a large part of the country’s military has gone with Azazi.

The governor said Azazi would be buried in the newly constructed Ijaw Heroes’ Park in Yenagoa and not in his home town, Peretoro, Ekeremo Local Government.

He added: “A lot has been said and a lot will be said about my brother Azazi. But the truth remains that a large part of the military has gone with him.”

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

POLITICS THE NATION

E-mail:- politics@thenationonlineng.net

Since Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole dissolved his executive council last month, questions have been asked over the quality of those who will assist him in running the state in the second dispensation. OSAGIE OTABOR reports the issues, factors and personalities in the equation.

Politics of exco composition in Edo R

IGHT from when he was sworn in for a second term in office, Governor Adams Oshiomhole has left political leaders of Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) and the general public guessing on who he would appoint as commissioners.

From all indications, Oshiomhole is not a governor to be dictated to on who to appoint.

In 2008, shortly after the Court of Appeal affirmed Oshiomhole’s victory, he quickly announced some key appointments. It was two hours before a meeting with ACN leaders where decisions for such appointments were to be taken.

Oshiomhole made good his promise not to make appointments based on party affiliations but on merit. He appointed non-party members into his cabinet, including three members of the Peoples Democratic Party until he fell out with Chief Tony Anenih.

The first-term cabinet was dissolved on November 9 at a valedictory session and Oshiomhole praised the commissioners for their selfless services.

Oshiomhole said: “Four years down the road, working together, arguing, debating, even sometimes disagreeing, we have provided a collective leadership to the people of Edo State. We have served them diligently with all our hearts.

“You are the least paid commissioners in the country, but that did not dampen your morale to put in your best efforts. I want to thank you very much for what God has used you to do for me and your state. Thank you for the sacrifices you have made.”

“I thought it wise that having worked so hard, it is right to appreciate you.

He spoke further: “On Sunday, I recognize it will be full time for the first tenure of this administration and when it is full time, no matter how interesting the game is, the referee must blow the whistle and end the game.

The life of this council comes to an end on Sunday, not today, because that is when the end of the first tenure of this administration will come to an end.”

There are speculations on those to make the second term list but the governor appeared to be keeping them close to his chest.

• Oshiomhole

Initial key appointments of Patrick Obahiagbon as Chief of Staff and Prof. Julius Ihonvbere as Secretary to Edo State Government led to protest by some youths from Edo Central Senatorial District who claimed they were being marginalised.

Other persons appointed included Prince Kassim Afegbua as Special Adviser on Media; Mr Stephen Idehenre is the Deputy Chief of Staff, Governor’s Office; Mr. Peter Okhiria retained his position as Chief Press Secretary; Princess Theresa Erediauwa was retained as the Executive Director, Millennium Development Goals (MDG) while Comrade Yakubu Aliyu is the Governor’s new Principal Private Secretary.

Mr. Godwin Obaseki was reappointed as the

Chairman of the Economic Team, while Mr. Osarodion Ogie was appointed the Vice Chairman of the Economic Team.

Some ACN leaders were said not to have been happy over the appointments because they felt Obahiagbon and Ihonvbere were new entrants into the ACN. A source told The Nation on phone that some of the leaders felt betrayed by the governor.

A key player in Oshiomhole’s first term who pleaded anonymity said there were no plans to appoint opposition members into the new cabinet. The source who spoke on phone said Oshiomhole was planning a cabinet that would ensure completion of all on-going projects and embarking on new ones.

The source said the level of their performances is not such that cannot be reversed by successive administration ‘which made Oshiomhole wants to carefully select his cabinet.’

It was, however, gathered that Governor Oshiomhole requested party leaders in the 18 local government councils to submit five persons from each locality as commissioner nominees.

The names submitted from Owan West included Mr. Andrew Uadia, Ms. Mary Jegede, Mr. Festus Owu, Mrs. Efe Unuigbokhai and Mr. Victor Ohiosunmuan.

There are, however, high expectations from Oshiomhole’s second term. To some analysts, Oshiomhole would not work at the pace he did during his first term because he would not seek another election.

Besides, there is the issue of local government elections, the fate of ACN in the state, newly introduced Land Use Charge Law, Benin Central Hospital project and who will be Oshiomhole’s successor among others.

Oshiomhole, during his re-election campaigns, promised to carry out new projects as well as complete on-going ones. He promised to provide electricity to many villages and tackled rural-urban migration through provision of amenities in rural communities in the state.

At a meeting with traditional rulers last week, Oshiomhole promised to conduct local government elections. He said his admin-

istration would hold a town hall meeting on how to get the Local Government Administrations in the state to deliver more dividends of democracy to the people.

Oshiomhole said the Benin Central Hospital project would be completed in 2013 and would be equipped with modern facilities.

“We need your support to revisit the local governments to make them work for the people. We have to bring a change to the local government administration to bring government closer to the people. In a democracy, the only thing that is constant is change, we cannot continue like this at the local government; we cannot have local governments that are there to pay salaries alone,” he noted. ”I will seek your support to restore sanity in our public life. We have to carry out major reforms across the state and we will need to be more firm,” he stressed.

“In Edo State, we have given out over one hundred and ten vehicles for patrol but when I go out, I don’t see them. I have asked the Acting Commissioner of Police to make the vehicles available for a physical audit. We cannot accept a situation where the vehicles provided for security in the state are diverted for private use or even taken outside the state for other purposes. We have to revisit the issue of the vigilance groups carrying weapons to complement the security agencies in our communities. We will need to go beyond throwing money at the security agencies and find out how they have managed the ones we have given to them”, he added.

Oshiomhole explained why he would focus on agricultural development in the new dispensation: “We are expecting more investment in the state, that is why we have to manage our land judiciously and make the land accessible to genuine investors. We will need your support to also clean up the land administration system,” the governor disclosed, noting that government had found that a large portion of the state land reserves were in the hands of individuals who do not properly utilise them but make profits on them through rent. He, however, warned that all such lands would be returned to government if not properly utilised.

No zoning in Anambra, says ANPP chair Chief Chukwuemeka Orjiako chairs the All Nigeria People’s Party (ANPP) in Anambra State.

In this interview, he speaks with NWANOSIKE ONU on many issues, including the party’s plan to produce Peter Obi’s successor in the 2013 governorship election.

T

HERE is a controversy in the state concerning zoning formular among the North, South and Central Senatorial zones...

There is nothing like that.

Since the creation of Anambra State, even though in ANPP, we believe in equity and justice, that does not mean that the party is aligning itself with such arrangement being canvassed by the state governor, Mr. Peter Obi, who is a member of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA). However, as the governor, he has every right to say his mind on some certain issues but that does not mean that the governorship race has been zoned to a particular area. What Anambra State needs now is someone that will have the fear of God who will be committed to the welfare of the average citizens of the state. In terms of touching the lives of people in

the state, somebody that is genuine in whatever policy for the state and not somebody that will be saying one thing and doing another to the detriment of the state is needed. So, if anybody wants to run for the governorship of the state irrespective of party or zone, he must take into consideration the key issues of human development and infrastructure.

Your party will have to battle such heavy weights like PDP, ACN, APGA and LP in the coming election, but some people believe ANPP is no longer what it used to be in the state, how are you going to solve that?

I do not know what you mean as heavy-weights because as far as Anambra State is concerned, no party will boast that it is in control of the electorate. The people of the state are well educated; they now believe in indi-

vidual performance or experience of a person and not name or party. As things stand now in the state, most of the politicians, big and small, are now embracing ANPP because of its believe in justice, equity and fairness. And more over, it is the only party in the state without crisis.

Recently, over 5,000 members of other political parties including APGA and PDP crossed over to ANPP to strengthen it.

As we are talking, more of such people are still coming over to contest the governorship, but we pray that we are not going to have crisis like the other parties over selection because of the number of interests for the governorship who are swarming around ANPP. So, this tells you that the party is on ground and doing well. Who ever tells you that the ANPP is a back-bencher in Anambra politics as of today,

may not be telling the truth.

Already, the party has constituted contact and mobilisation committees in the three senatorial zones in the state and they are ready for commissioning early January 2013 for the battle.

Also, we are beginning tours of 326 wards in the state.

Again, another major problem your party is likely to face in Anambra is the allegation that ANPP is basically a northern one; how do you see this?

Anybody can say anything but I want people to know that if anybody says that ANPP is a northern party, what can they say of ACN and also PDP? Where did they belong? If you look at the structure of PDP, its national chairman is from the North and ACN has its own Chairman from the West while ANPP has its own national chairman from the South East.

My question is, which one now

• Orjiako

can be said to belong to a particular section? The foundation members of ANPP were the late Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, Senator Arthur Nzeribe and Senator Ben Ndi Obi who equally suggested the name ANPP from All •Continued on page 18

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

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POLITICS The suspense over who would emerge Kaduna State deputy governor has been laid to rest, following the nomination of Nuhu Bajoga, a former ambassador, for the job. TONY AKOWE reports the implications of the appointment, if approved by the House of Assembly.

‘Ekiti is married to progressive governance’

Kaduna: Deputy governorship A blues over B

ARING any last-minute hitch, Ambassador Nuhu Bajoga whose name was sent to the state House of Assembly by Governor Mukthar Ramalan Yero on Monday may be sworn in before the New Year as new deputy governor of the state.

His emergence was as a result of his selection by the governor to fill the vacant position following Yero’s elevation to the position of governor after the recent tragic death of Patrick Ibrahim Yakowa. Immediately Yakowa died, The Nation reported that Bajoga was among the contenders for the position and was about the most favoured candidate in view of his acceptability in Southern Kaduna.

Bajoga’s first stint in politics was when he was to run as running mate to Hamisu Yusuf (Mairago) in the 2003 governorship election on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Mairago eventually did not contest the election as he stepped down for the then governor and now senator, Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi.

The 63-year-old Bajoga who hails from Kwoi in Jaba Local Government area of Kaduna state has experience in both the private and public sector and was elected the state Chairman of the PDP in 2011. A product of SIM Primary School Kwoi, he also attended Baptist Primary School Keffi between and the SIM Secondary School, Kagoro where he obtained his West African School Certificate in 1968.

For his Higher School Certificate (HSC), Bajoga attended at St. Paul’s College, Zaria and later went to Kaduna Polytechnic between 1972 and 1975 where he obtained a Diploma Certificate in Accounting. He was also in Slough College, England between 1976-1980 where he graduated and qualified into the Association of Certified Chartered Accountants (ACCA Professional II).

Between 1975 and 1980, he worked in various capacities with the Kaduna State civil service and was an Accountant

with the Kaduna State Ministry of Health and later Ministry of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives. He late left the services of the Kaduna state government to join Ashaka Cement Plc in 1980, as the first Internal Audit Manager and was later appointed Area Manager for Bauchi, Jos and Kano in 1981 and served in that capacity until 1988. He became the administrative Manager in 1989 and was elevated to the position of Regional Manager in-charge of North West and North-East Zones between 1989 and 1993. He was appointed General Manager Support Services in 1993 and was in that position until his retirement in 2002.

He was regarded as a true and worthy Ambassador of the people of Kaduna State while in Ashaka Cement and after his retirement, he joined politics, teaming up with Yusuf Hamisu Abubakar (a.k.a Mairago) to take Kaduna politics by storm. It is on record that the pair caused serious political tremor in the state in the wake of the 2003 gubernatorial race. Their decision to back down from the race is still a subject of discussion across the state today as their supporters are yet to forgive them for taking them to the battle ground and abandoning them there. He was appointed Nigeria’s ambassador to Poland with concurrent accreditation to the Czech Republic, a position he occupied between 2004 and 2007.

He was elected the state chairman of Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) Kaduna State on March 17, 2012 and on assumption of office, Bajoga initiated Peace and Reconciliation moves among aggrieved PDP members.

This initiative has brought about the return of many into the party mainstream. He was also instrumental to the decamping of Senator Ahmed Aruwa and his teeming supporters to the PDP. He is believed to be a man of wide acceptability even though

•The late Yakowa

•Governor Yero

there is opposition to his nomination by a large section of the youths from Southern Kaduna.

The youths are angry that by accepting to be the deputy governor, Bajoga will rob them of the chance of producing the Chairman of the ruling party, while others say he was too old to deputise for a young man. However the next few days will have a lot of impact on the politics of the state.

• Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun (second right); Deputy Governor, Prince Segun Adesegun (left), outgoing Chief of Staff to the Governor, Ambassador Ademola Ogunnaike; the and Secretary to the State Government, Mr Taiwo Adeoluwa, after a send-off session by the state Executive Council at the Governor’s Office in Abeokuta.

CTION Congress of Nige-ria (ACN) leader in Efon local government area of Ekiti State, Chief Joseph Alake yesterday reiterated the loyalty of the chapter to Fayemi Administration. He said the governor had lived up to expectation, noting that he had fulfilled his promises to the people.

Alake, who addressed the stakeholders’ meeting of the party in Efon-Alaaye, said the mood of people in the state suggested that there should be continuity in the State House. Alake explained that Efon ACN will never reward Governor Kayode Fayemi with evil, maintaining that he had given the local government a sense of belonging. Party delegates from the six Efon quarters of Aaye, Obalu, Ejigan, Isaja, Emo and Ikagbe witnessed the meeting. Also, delegates came from other Efon villages, including Ahun community, Ita-Awure, Ita-Ido, Obake, Alagbamesan, Iwaji, Oniyo and Alajo.

The party leader thanked the governor for appointing many Efon indigenes into his administration, adding that he has also fought the infrastructure battle in Efonland more than any of his predecessors. He urged the people to embrace the reforms being pursued by the governor in the various sectors.

Alake said: “The leaders of ACN in Ekitiland are thinking along the same line. We want our party to be united and focused. For two years, Governor Kayode Fayemi has done our party, our people and our state proud. He is a committed governor and he has governed with a sense of responsibility. ACN will not allow him to be distracted. We have resolved that there should be no crack on the wall of our party. It is our intention to go to the next round of polls in an atmosphere of oneness, unity and mutual understanding.

“Efon ACN will not depart from this path of supporting continuity in office. It is in the interest of our party, our state and the people of Ekitiland that the progressive administration should continue its service to the far-

• Alake

By Emmanuel Oladesu Deputy Political Editor

flung state. We have experienced two parties in power in Ekiti and we know which one should be preferred by our people. In Efon, we have cause to express our support, solidarity and loyalty to Fayemi Administration. He has appointed a lot of our indigenes into his administration as commissioner, special advisers, special assistants, board chairmen and members.

He has tarred our intra-township and inter-township roads. We have part and portion in this progressive government”.

However, Alake asked for more. He pointed out that Efon-Alaaye is the only notable town in Ekiti State without a tertiary institution, urging the governor to compensate the town with more social amenities. He added: “The main wish of the generality of our people is that a tertiary institution, either federal or state, should be sited in Efon-Alaaye. Efon is ready to support the take-off of the institution. It will be our greatest joy to have a tertiary institution in our community so that the name of Efon can be more imprinted on the world map”.

No zoning in Anambra •Continued from page 17

Peoples Party, APP. Also, Dr Ezekiel Izuogu was there including Dr Okechukwu Odunze and Senator Joy Emordi, our great daughter, just to mention a few. Then from the look of things, you can see that this party had a very strong Igbo presence in its formative years and now, the current leader, Dr Ogbonnaya Onu, who was a Governor of old Abia State has his roots here too. So, how can someone attribute the party to a sector? All these things are geared towards ridiculing the party by some visionless politicians in the state because they have seen the party as a moving train, especially as the election draws closer.

The fear people entertain in elections such as governorship is INEC’s involvement. But some people believe Prof Attahiru Jega is turning things around...

My own view is that INEC needs to look into some issues as regards the conduct of elections in the country, as it regards its adhoc staff. Again, there is need for INEC to look into the issue of political parties. Fielded candidates must be given the certified true copy of number of eligible voters in every boot, ward, constituency, local government area and the state to enable the contesting parties to

•Governor Obi

know the number of votes to be cast for the election. INEC needs to review the printing of ballot papers for elections. In some cases, you will find out a situation where about 50 political parties’ logos are printed in the ballot paper when in actual sense, only five of the parties presented candidates. So, this is where kudos can go to the electoral body for the de-registration exercise done recently.

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

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COMMENTARY EDITORIAL

EDITORIAL FROM OTHER LAND

Privacy and Google

Jonathan’s promise •Almost 19 months after, can a pledge to do better in 2013 be taken seriously?

J

UST as well President Goodluck Jonathan has promised to up his performance ante in 2013. That is a tribute to candour and honesty – for a pledge to do better in 2013 is an open admission that his performance since he was sworn in in May 2011, not to talk of the remaining period of the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua’s tenure, has been nothing but abysmal.

Speaking at the foundation laying ceremony of the Living Faith Foundation Bible College in Kaduna, the president admitted Nigeria was going through a lot of difficulties but urged Nigerians to view those challenges less as stumbling blocks but rather as stepping stones to national greatness. That, as far as encouragement goes, is no crime. In fact, it is good for a president to constantly rally his people for development.

The president also played the avuncular elder next door, with his empathy with small-scale business owners, especially artisans, when he pledged that he envisioned a Nigeria where artisans like barbers and vulcanisers would not need standby generators, before securing their daily bread. On this score, he promised his government would, in the coming year, generate more power. “My wish is for Nigerians not to have generating sets,” he declared, further promising a new year replete with job creation, wealth creation and improved security.

Nice pledges. But can the president walk his talk? We wish he could. Indeed, we would be happy if he did. But the ob-

jective situation on the ground does not presage much hope. That is the problem – for the president’s latest litany of promises would appear a periodic ritual of being seen to say something in the midst of glaring near-hopelessness. That is not good enough, even if it is imperative to keep hope alive at all times.

It is good to see the president trying to rally everyone to the national cause. But has he rallied himself, through what he does or fails to do? That is the leadership segment tragically missing in the mix.

The president, for the last three years does not appear to be up to providing that leadership, from the result of his effort.

The year 2012 would probably pass as among the worst in this country’s history as regards insecurity, poverty and corruption. Yet, the president does not seem to have a clue as to tackling these problems.

To be fair, President Jonathan appears to be starting to have a slow hang on the power problem, the celebrated rise to more than 4,000 mw, which seems the plank of the president’s new optimism on power generation.

But often, the power situation is a constant yo-yo, celebrated now, condemned then; and is, on the average, no reliable indication to measure progress. Is the president ready to move beyond this neither-nor power situation in 2013? That is what he has promised. But again, the reality on the ground hardly supports that promise.

This presidential bumbling is a great lesson in democracy, as politics gradually

takes over from governance in 2013, en route the 2015 general elections. Democracy guarantees choice. But, as Jonathan’s choice has proved, it hardly guarantees good and efficient governance. Still, that does not vitiate the presidential mandate. It only shows how bad the electorate’s choice was and how they must live by the consequences of that choice.

The message is clear. The president has promised to do better. We wish him good luck. But as a president is not voted to give eternal promises and pledges but to work hard to improve situations, Nigerians must learn to think hard before making future presidential choices. If only this lesson is learnt from the Jonathan presidential fiasco, then it would have been worth all the trauma.

‘The message is clear. The president has promised to do better. We wish him good luck. But as a president is not voted to give eternal promises and pledges but to work hard to improve situations, Nigerians must learn to think hard before making future presidential choices. If only this lesson is learnt from the Jonathan presidential fiasco, then it would have been worth all the trauma’

Diesel adulteration • DPR has a case to answer

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HE Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) startled the public with its belated discovery that fuel retail outlets in the country, for the sake of making excessive profit, do adulterate petroleum products. In a survey carried out by SON, the result of which was presented to stakeholders, the organisation revealed that more than 60 per cent of the over 2,000 retail outlets in Nigeria have diesel sullying with kerosene to about 77 per cent.

SON’s Timothy Abner, in a geographical breakdown of the field study shows that out of the 21 fuel retail outlets in the South West, 15 had 69.1 per cent diesel adulteration with kerosene: Middle Belt

‘We are not persuaded by the denial by Osten Olorunsola of the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) that “….PPMC cannot do such thing…” since whenever there is smoke, a fire must be brewing somewhere.

What the DPR ought to have done is to tell Nigerians how adulterated diesel got into the market and not to employ an unworkable blackmail as alibi. The oil barons behind fuel adulteration, most times in connivance with NNPC staff, should be identified as a first step to getting to the root of the cankerworm’

- kerosene mixture with diesel is tested to be 77.1 per cent: In the South-South, kerosene adulteration with diesel is 27 per cent.

More disheartening is the proclivity of some states for this illegal business. For instance, the study reveals that in Enugu State, diesel was predominantly adulterated with kerosene in all cases but for two stations. Also, diesel sold in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has more of high kerosene content. More baffling is the confession by SON that the diesel in its power generating set showed kerosene presence of about 77.1 per cent.

Though SON has reportedly discovered in the downstream sector “about six fuel adulteration points between Lagos and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja,”it is scandalous that fingers of connivance at the stakeholders’ forum are reportedly being pointed in the direction of the Pipelines and Product Marketing Company (PPMC), a subsidiary of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC).

What is the corporation doing in this regard?

We are not persuaded by the denial by Osten Olorunsola of the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) that “….PPMC cannot do such thing…” since whenever there is smoke, a fire must be brewing somewhere. What the DPR ought to have done is to tell Nigerians how adulterated diesel got into the market and not to employ an unworkable blackmail as alibi. The oil barons behind fuel adulteration, most times in connivance with NNPC staff, should be identi-

fied as a first step to getting to the root of the cankerworm.

We take note of DPR’s claim that it recently sealed off 96 petrol stations across the country for sharp practices such as operating fuel stations without DPR licence or expired ones, under-delivery of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), compromise of safety standards, overpricing and diversion of PMS. These are bad developments, but adulteration of diesel and, most obviously, PMS, with its attendant consequences on vehicles and machineries in a country with poor public transportation system and erratic power supply, is worse. The toll this injurious act takes on the pockets of users of vehicles and generators can be better imagined.

The situation is frightening and this shows that the DPR has not been effective in the discharge of its duty of supervising and of maintaining standards in petroleum products consumed by the Nigerian public. The SON seems not to appreciate the importance of the oil sector to the nation’s survival, otherwise, it would have ensured that the issue of standards that it ought to maintain is not trivialised as it has been in this instance.

We call on the DPR to conscientiously monitor fuel stations across the country with the salient aim of nipping in the bud this sad trend. All those involved in the current fuel adulteration must be made to face the full wrath of the law, to serve as deterrence to others who might be thinking of going into the illicit business.

Consumers deserve greater transparency on their data

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TRIKING the right balance between protecting privacy and encouraging innovation is difficult in the rapidly changing world of the internet. But European regulators are right to increase the pressure by demanding that Google alter its controversial privacy policy, even if this could have consequences for all those offering internet services.

Google erred when it ignored the request of European regulators to delay its new privacy policy in March. This pools user data it gathers across 60 online services, allowing Google to offer advertisers a better way to target customers. Now it will have to introduce significant changes or it could face sanctions, hardly the best advertisement for its service.

Google will have to show it has the “unambiguous consent” of users to combine data and better explain how, why and for how long it intends to hold on to this information. This is the right approach to data, which should be seen as the property of those from whom the details are obtained.

The rule should apply to any company that collects personal information, whether or not it operates on the net.

But Google’s approach has not been ruled entirely illegal and this is also to be welcomed. Google has a hefty development bill to pay and the personal information left behind by consumers is a valuable currency.

Users must be aware that there is a price to be paid for the convenience of free services, whether with a web service provider or a social networking site, such as Facebook.

But, given the scope for abuse, they must trust those who gather and keep the information. On this score, companies such as Google and Facebook still have much to prove. Both have been rebuked in the past for cavalier treatment of privacy issues. The road to building that trust lies in a more transparent and considered approach to the privacy trade-off. Simple, clear notifications about the purposes for which information is gathered are the bare minimum.

It is encouraging that the industry is beginning to acknowledge concerns.

Microsoft’s new Internet Explorer package has an opt-out facility on default, so customers must choose to share information.

This is to be applauded.

Regulators also have a responsibility.

Companies need reasonable and clear rules. EU member states should press ahead with harmonising their widely varying privacy laws. But the internet is a border-free world. Co-operation should go further. Otherwise, there is a risk that both privacy and innovation will suffer.

– Financial Times

TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief Victor Ifijeh • Editor Gbenga Omotoso •Chairman, Editorial Board Sam Omatseye •General Editor Kunle Fagbemi •Editor, Online Lekan Otufodunrin •Managing Editor Northern Operation Yusuf Alli •Managing Editor Waheed Odusile

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•Deputy Editor (News) Adeniyi Adesina •Group Political Editor Bolade Omonijo •Group Business Editor Ayodele Aminu •Abuja Bureau Chief Yomi Odunuga •Sport Editor Ade Ojeikere •Editorial Page Editor Sanya Oni

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THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

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CARTOON & LETTERS

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IR: During the fuel subsidy crisis in January, the statements from President Goodluck Jonathan made me to conclude that the nation, which many had tipped for greatness, in 1960, may continue to wander in the wilderness if the issue of leadership is not frontally addressed. If the captain of the Nigerian ship could tell the world that he was going to visit hardship on people that gave him overwhelming mandate, because few untouchable agents of imperialism were defrauding the nation, it is a revelation of the crisis of leadership in this country.

Plato, the great Greek philosopher might have had Nigeria in mind when in his classic, Republic,

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Reflections on the leadership question ascribed leadership to the sages in the society. Specifically, he warned that the society might descend into the abyss if an individual without the virtue of sagacity becomes a statesman. Nigeria of today and even of yesterday depicts the ugly side of Plato’s thought.

To start with, in the present dispensation, the President has demonstrated through his actions and gestures that he lacks the courage

and the sagacity to move the nation to Eldorado. This deficit may have probably made him to depend solely on coterie of advisers. In fact, one minister even has the designation of a “coordinating minister”.

In the first republic, the departing colonialists, in their grand design to perpetuate conservatism in Nigeria, brought Alhaji Tafawa Balewa. During the second repub-

lic, the inheritor of the presidency, Alhaji Shehu Shagari, was only interested in becoming a senator of the federal republic, but the northern oligarchy thought otherwise.

As against his wish and will, he became President.

Similar patterns were recorded in 1999, 2007, and 2011 when the “Generals” brought in unprepared presidents. It is well known that General Obasanjo was interested in

One year of Osun’s Walk to Live IR: Now in its one year, ‘Walk To Live’ the monthly physical exercise introduced by the State Government of Osun is by all means a well-conceived idea that richly adds value to the health of the high and low citizens of the state, enlightening them on the importance of body exercise.

As any medical expert can attest to, people tend to live better and healthier when they are well informed about the little things they can do to improve their health. The late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, understood this essential fact. In one of his many insightful utterances, he posited that ‘medical men know too well that if many people (through education) were less free in their choice of the types of food they eat, of the beverage they drink, of the clothing they wear, and of the houses they live in, the health of the community would be more than 100 times improved’.

Today in the State of Osun, the monthly exercise – in which the governor, his deputy, the members of the State Executive Council, newspaper editors, football stars, popular Nollywood stars, and many more important personages join the governor to walk many kilometres on foot, across streets –

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is now freely accepted by the people of the state. They now see it not as a government thing but as an initiative that is meant to truly improve the quality of their lives.

This answers for the enthusiasm, passion and commitment the people display in any area of the state in which the exercise takes place. Not only are they full of joy for being part of a walk aimed at improving their health, they are also overwhelmed with the bliss of seeing a governor and his team partake in a physical exercise with them. This alone speaks eloquently of how close the government of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola is to the people at very local level. It is often a moving sight beholding the whole apparatus of the executive arm just out there in the midst of supposed ordinary people who before now were only used to being harassed with ear-grating sirens of government vehicles moving dangerous at neck-breaking speed, with their occupants shielded off by heavily tinted glasses.

The ‘Walk to Live’ programme further makes evident the security status of the state. Since its debut in the last one year, no single threat to security, or a case of breakdown of law and order has been recorded.

It is so well organised and fully enjoined by the people that it begins and ends without hitches in all the places it has taken place. Again, the Omoluabi virtues that the people of Osun are known for are displayed at each edition of the programme.

They conduct themselves orderly and show respect one for the other.

The programme equally offers an opportunity for those who trade in edibles to rake in some money. In other words, beyond the health benefit of the programme, there are also economic gains for traders.

I have participated twice in the programme and it was sheer fun besides the health benefits I derived from it. This to me is one of the best programmes of the governor and I hope the State House of Assembly will make a law that will guarantee its continuity even if another administration comes to power after Ogbeni.

Kudos to Governor Aregbesola for such great thinking.

• Olumide Adewale, Iwo, Osun State

going back to his farm, but to the “annuller”, he must be rehabilitated in the presidential villa. Eight years later, Obasanjo himself, propped up another “unwilling president” the late Umaru Yar’adua, and finally the incumbent, Dr Goodluck Jonathan.

The above illustrations bring me to the issue of leadership and social structure. There is no doubt that the character of the society determines the quality of leadership.

However, the state has a role to play in creating a stable social structure. Where the state as in Nigeria has being hijacked by a clique or what Jide Oluwajuyitan, a leading columnist, tagged “fortune tellers”, the nation, if at all exists, flounders.

Tragically what emerges from such order is a leadership lacking in platonic sagacity. Obviously such a leadership cannot reform and not to talk about transforming the socio-political order. Thus, as we ponder on how to move the nation forward, the issue of state ownership must be addressed. The people must strive to possess their superstructure. It is only through such mechanism that the best could be selected to lead. A leader that is propped-up through such process would promote the real national interest.

Nigeria needs sages cum statesmen and not politicians.

• Adeniyi Basiru Ikorodu, Lagos.

SOS to Kogi state govt

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IR: I wish to call on Kogi State government to rehabilitate the abandoned Akpanya district roads in Igalamela/Odolu local government area of Kogi State.

The deplorable state of these important roads linking all Akpanya villages with other parts of Nigeria not only exposes motorists to great risks of accidents, but has, by extension, led to the closure of the only existing commercial bank in the district thereby creating more hardship for the entire communities in the areas who patronize the bank.

Akpanya District is a border area with four main access roads to other

parts of Nigeria. Regrettably, all the under-mentioned linking roads are extremely bad.

The Odolu/Akpanya road with a narrow rickety wooden bridge constructed at Alakwa over Oweh River many decades ago by our colonial masters is now a death trap to both motorists and motorcyclist who ply the road.

The Akpanya-Alloma road was last rehabilitated in the early seventies by the Ayangba Agricultural Development Project and has not been touched again since then.

The two access roads linking Agbedo-Akpanya with our

neighbouring Enugu state at UNADU and ITCHI respectively are always un-motorable during rainy seasons to the extent that the entire district becomes landlocked throughout the period.

I, therefore, request Governor of Kogi State Alhaji Idris Wada to come to the rescue of these communities by rehabilitating Odolu/Akpanya and Alloma-Akpanya roads respectively to enable the communities enjoy the benefits of rural banking scheme for enhanced socio-economic development of the area.

• Jacob Osayi, Maitana, Abuja

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

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COMMENTS

Justice Kayode Eso: A tribute

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HE death of Justice Kayode Eso hit most of us who knew him like a thunderbolt. When a man of his stature dies in Yorubaland, the cry is ‘Erin wo, Ajanaku sun bi oke’ meaning something like an earthquake has struck. The name Eso carries some significance in Yorubaland. In the days of the old Oyo Empire, the guardian or military class was known as the Eso and anybody by such a name in Yorubaland comes from the military aristocracy.

Kayode Eso was of course not an Oyo man but an Ijesha man and it is generally known that Ijesha people are fighters who would not easily surrender to any overbearing force. This was why they and the Ekitis in the Ekiti Parapo Confederacy fought the Oyo Empire under its Ibadan military leaders to a stalemate between 1873 and 1886 and finally until Pax Britannica was imposed on the country in the 1890s.

Justice Kayode Eso trained as a lawyer and attended Trinity College Dublin where he imbibed deeply the Irish scholastic tradition particularly in the liberal arts before studying law.

This was why Justice Eso was so well grounded in literature and in the use of the English language. He could have, if he had wanted, become an English teacher with specialization in Shakespeare. He was a product of Ilesha Grammar School and he was very proud of it. He was in Ilesha Grammar School with another great legal scholar, Dr Ajayi former Solicitor- General and Permanent Secretary in Ministry of Justice in western Nigeria. I remember interviewing him when Dr Ajayi gave me his huge and scholarly manuscript for editorial improvement one or two decades ago. There was a particular page in the manuscript that was very interesting to Justice Eso and he asked me in his characteristic way whether the author mentioned the fact that he could not wrestle him down during ijakadi (wrestling competition). The judge was referring to something young people did in their pre-teen and teenage years as a form of recreation and exercise in the villages and the small towns of Yorubaland.

As sophisticated and highly educated as Justice Kayode Eso was, he still remembered his roots and against those whom he wrestled. He had his ears close to the ground throughout his life; he loved his native Ilesha and Ijesha land generally.

I know that he was heavily involved in plans of industrialization of Ijesha land. I remember visiting him with my late friend, Professor Biola Ojo during which time he was discussing in details with Prof Biola Ojo who also was a man of means and who had the progress of Ijesha land in his heart about resuscitation of the International Breweries – the only industrial plant in Ilesha.

Justice Kayode Eso, in spite of his devotion to his native land was a Nigerian patriot. In his life, there was no contradiction between a local patriot and a nationalist. He was a good Yoruba man as well as an excellent Nigerian. On returning from his

legal studies in Ireland and the UK, he settled down in Jos where he commenced his legal practice before coming to Yorubaland.

In other words, he cut his legal teeth in Jos. Jos in those days was a cosmopolitan town with a section called Anglo-Jos where the British Tin Mining Community resided. This may sound rather quaint to many readers but in actual fact, Jos was the only town in Nigeria that was close to English culture because of the presence of many English people who had settled there to make a living and it was among these people that Justice Kayode Eso felt at home. He practiced law in Jos with the likes of Mr Agbakoba, Olisa Agbakoba’s father. Jos in those days was also inhabited by large Ogbomosho community including the present Shoun of Ogbomosho, Oba Oyewunmi Ajagungbade the third. There were other Nigerian communities particularly Urhobo of present day Delta and many others in the business and legal community from Eastern Nigeria and present day Delta area. It was in Jos that Justice Kayode Eso developed his pan Nigerian outlook and orientation. His wife, Mrs. Aina Eso, a lady that has hugely complemented Justice Kayode Eso is from the Niger Delta. It is not difficult to understand why Justice Kayode Eso loved Nigeria so much and why he was hugely disappointed that Nigeria was punching both locally and internationally below its weight. I remember an incident which personally made the revered Justice wonder what was going on in this benighted country. He had a fish pond in his well appointed Villa in Ibadan and nursed the fishes for a long time checking them and feeding them every morning as a hobby. Against all pleading that the fishes were hefty enough for harvest, he kept saying his wife should tarry a little longer. But alas one morning he woke up and all the fishes were gone. Some miscreants had stolen into his compound in the night to harvest the work of his hand. The old man could not believe what had happened. He jokingly said, some people obviously needed the fish more than himself. The Judge felt this incident symbolizes and epitomize the collapse of the moral order in Nigeria.

On a personal note, I want to pay a special tribute to Justice Kayode Eso’s sense of fairness as a judge especially in the turbulent days of political squabbles and recrimination in the old western region. I remember a case which went before Justice Kayode in the early 1966 in which my brother, the late Chief Joseph Oduola Osuntokun erstwhile Minister of Education in Western Nigeria was involved along with virtually the entire cabinet of the late Chief S.L. Akintola the premier who had just been assassinated. The crisis in the Action Group between 1961 and 1962 had been so destructive in Yorubaland to the extent that both Sir Adesoji Aderemi the Governor, Chief S.L. Akintola, the premier and Chief Obafemi Awolowo leader of Action Group and leader of opposition in the Federal House of Representative

In the womb of 2013

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N 96 hours, 2012 will become history. Already, we have started wishing ourselves happy new year in advance. We do this not because we are sure of anything but because we believe that we will see the new year whether the enemy likes it or not, to borrow a popular refrain. In no time, 2012 has come and is virtually gone.

When we were entering the year about 362 days ago, we did so with high hopes, just as we are doing now with the approach of 2013. As we take stock of the outgoing year in preparation for the coming of 2013, there are many things to reflect upon.

Those who are deep will want to give thanks to God for His protection, preservation and provision in the outgoing year. If it was not for Him, it is not likely that many of us will still be around today. Remember, many have gone and those of us who are still alive are not around because we are better than those who are dead. We are alive by the grace of God. We remember incidents which claimed the lives of many, but which we survived not because of our holiness but because the Lord in His infinite mercy decided to keep us.

Our prayer now is that we will complete the 2012 race. Though it remains four days from today, but as I write this on the night of Christmas, I know too well that some may

die before January 1, 2013, notwithstanding the fact that we have been wishing one another happy new year in advance in the past few days.

What is really new about a new year? Is there anything new in it? Is it not just a change in time and calendar as we witness every day?

Well, a new year is significant because it has gone through 365 days or 366 days as in the case of 2012, which was a leap year. To run a calendar for one whole year is not a joke in a country like ours which lacks the basic facilities for healthy living. To live well and long, a man must plan his life in line with the existing facilities in his country.

Most of these facilities are expected to be provided by the government in collaboration with the private sector in certain areas. The buck, no matter how we look at it, stops at the government’s desk because these amenities are basic infrastructure required for the day-to-day existence of the people.

We are talking about schools, hospitals, roads, electricity, water, security and those other things that make the world tick. In our country many people have taken it upon themselves to provide these facilities, but they are few and far between. The majority does not have what it takes to put these things in place. It is because of this silent majority that the government must be alive to its responsibilities. With

‘In the outgoing year, Nigerians suffered a lot. They virtually went through hell in the daily pursuit of their means of livelihood. With the epileptic power supply, fuel scarcity and the high cost of goods and services, the fortunes of the common-man further dwindled’

President Goodluck Jonathan promising that things would be better in 2013, I want to believe that the yearnings of this silent majority for the presence of government in their lives will be answered. Is the president’s promise a good sign that things will be better for all of us in 2013?

If the president can make such a promise then it follows that 2013 should be a year we should all look forward to with high hope. With or without the president’s promise some of us are hopeful that 2013 will be better. We have lived on such hope for ages and it seems we will continue to be hopeful year after year because as the saying goes ‘’while there is life, there is hope’’.

We are hopeful for a better 2013 not necessarily because the president said so, but because it is in the nature of man to always look at the brighter side of life. Whenever a new year is approaching like this we make resolutions; whether we will keep them or not is a different ball game Some resolve to stop smoking; some resolve to stop philandering; some resolve to stop drinking and so on and so forth. The bottom line of it all is that the new year should be better than the old. This is the kind of resolution our president has made. He wants to be a better president in 2013, it, therefore, follows that we should be better followers too. As long as the president leads well, the people will follow. All he needs do is to shine the torch so that we can find our way. So far, the president has not met our expectations and he too knows. His resolution, if I may call it that, could be another way of telling Nigerians that ‘’yes, I know that I have failed you, please forgive me I will do better next year’’.

had suffered huge personal losses. This tragedy eventually ended with Chief Awolowo being incarcerated for treasonable felony. The crisis in the West eventually led to a military intervention in Nigerian politics. It was therefore natural for the supporters of Chief Awolowo to Jide feel triumphant after Osuntokun the January 1966 coup and to use their influence to deal with their political enemies. It was in such circumstance that the entire cabinet of Chief Akintola was hurled before Justice Kayode Eso and many expected them to be dealt with ruthlessly. To many people’s surprise, Justice Eso decided the case rather fairly and freed those who were innocent even to the surprise of those who had expected the worst. I was an undergraduate student of the University of Ibadan at that time and my late brother was in the dock and we were all so surprised about the judicial integrity of Justice Kayode Eso. So when people talk about him in abstract, I can provide life experience of the integrity and humanity of this great Judge. Justice Kayode Eso in later years was very fond of my brother Prof Kayode Osuntokun. As far as I know, apart from the late Justice Olajide Olatawura and Justice Tayo Onalaja, he was the only legal dignitary who sometimes attended the annual lecture in honour of Kayode Osuntokun at the Kayode Osuntokun Auditorium at the University College Hospital Ibadan.

In later years, I got to know Justice Kayode Eso very well and even to know his son Olumide and Olumide’s wife Ronke, Major General Henry Adefowope’s daughter who happens to be my in-law. The Yoruba say that life is like old man river, you never know when you will cross it. At 87, Justice Kayode Eso lived well and lived long. May God rest his soul, be with his wife, with his two children and grandchildren. He has lived an exemplary life and joined the saints in his old age.

Even though the situation in Nigeria seems dire, but who knows what the future will bring. Whatever it brings, whether good or bad, Justice Kayode Eso’s contribution to the growth of this country will remain imperishable and his name will be written in gold. Adieu the Cesarus of the legal profession in Nigeria and an Icon of judicial erudition.

To admit one’s failure is not a sin, it is the beginning of the sinner’s desire to change for good. In the outgoing year, Nigerians suffered a lot. They virtually went through hell in the daily pursuit of their means of livelihood. With the epileptic power supply, fuel scarcity and the high cost of goods and services, the fortunes of the commonman further dwindled. They lived from hand to mouth and from all the indices now there is no hope for them in 2013 except the president improves on his performance.

As a president, who I believe has his ears to the ground Jonathan must know what troubles those he governs. He mentioned some of the people’s problems in his remarks at the foundation laying of Living Faith Foundation’s Bible College in Kaduna on Sunday.

Hear him : ‘’Small businesses such as barbing salons cannot continue to buy generators to operate and break even. My wish is for Nigerians not to have generating sets’’. Mr President if South Africa can run its economy without generators, what stops us from doing the same?

What is required is the will to fix the power sector and if you can do that we are on our way to have a country which will be second to none in Africa. The question is will the hawks in your administration allow you to serve the longsuffering people of our country? The choice is yours sir. You are by the grace of God our leader today and you don’t have to kowtow to anybody. Rather, people should be beholden to you because as they say in my village, ‘’you hold the knife and the yam’’.

In Nigeria today sir, your word is law. What you want you will get as long as it is within the purview of the law. All you need do is to

Lawal Ogienagbon lawal.ogienagbon@thenationonlineng.net SMS ONLY: 08099400204

discard those who do not wish you and by extension the nation well. If you do that, you are on your way to writing your name in gold. I want to hold you by your word that next year will be better because having made that declaration you have no choice than to live up to it.

Let me quote you here again sir. ‘’Let me assure all of you and indeed all Nigerians that 2013 will be better for us than 2012 in all aspects of the nation’s history. The new year shall be better for us in terms of job creation, wealth creation and improved security among others’’. I say amen to that. You were right on track when you referred to the people’s cynicism about your administration. That cynicism, you must know, is informed by what they have gone through under you in the past two years.

It is left for you to make us believe in you in 2013. Again, your observation is appropriate here : ‘’Sometimes, challenges make people doubt the sincerity of government, but I am confident that God knows everything’’. Yes, God knows everything, but it is man that will do the job here on earth through His grace. Sir, are you that man? Happy New Year Nigeria and may the Lord guide us aright.

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

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COMMENTS

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HE verbal war between the Igbo and Yoruba columnists and opinion moulders over the role of their elites in the Nigerian post independence crisis and the subsequent civil war (1967-1970) rages on.

The former celebrate Ojukwu and Achebe as heroes while demonising Awo as the architect of Igbo tragedy. The latter insist the statement of Awo, their hero, that ‘starvation is a weapon of war’, is not the answer to Igbo failure of leadership. That both derived different conclusions from the same set of facts only underscores our multiculturalism. As products of different cultures, our perception of reality is conditioned by our values, mores, norm and language.

This explains why our elder statesman, Professor Chinua Achebe, a former Biafra cultural ambassador will declare with such finality that ‘Nigerians hate the Igbo because of their superior culture’. Of course, were Bola Ige, the unrepentant Yoruba irredentist and Achebe’s friend, to be alive, he would have countered by insisting Yoruba culture is the most advanced in Africa. Our pastoralists brothers from the Sahel of the north would, have as they once did in the 50s, dismissed the cultures of those they derogatively referred to as ‘half naked people of the east and unbelievers of the west’ as inferior. Never mind that anthropologists have long said no one culture is superior or inferior.

The clash of culture also accounts for Achebe’s claim ‘there was a country’ while others argue what he saw, was probably an apparition, if he meant the Biafra nation Ojukwu created on May 30, 1967 which he impudently claimed ‘no power in Black Africa ‘could suppress, long after Gowon’s creation of a 12-state structure of May 26, 1967 which carved out South-eastern and Rivers states for the Ijaw, Efiks and Ibibio – sworn enemies of the Igbo.

‘Every nationality has the right to choose its own hero as dictated by its culture. That is the whole essence of federal arrangement which as a social philosophy strives to liberate groups from the tyranny of the state’

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HEN Abia state governor Chief Theodore Orji introduced reforms in the civil service of the state which include promotion of workers due for promotion, approval of N21,000 as minimum wage, retiring those due, transferring of service of non-indigenes to their states of origin after due consultation with their home state, and insistence on biometric data capturing of all workers and pensioners in the state civil service, some cynics who believed in business as usual criticised the reforms severely.

All sorts of misinterpretations such as political witch-hunting, victimization and others were read into the reforms. Hatchet writers were hired to condemn the reforms and workers especially junior ones who were unaware of the rot in the service were instigated against the state government to ensure that reforms failed.

But being a thoroughbred civil servant himself, the governor remained undaunted in his pursuit and implementation of the peopleoriented reforms especially the issue of biometric data capturing of all workers in the council areas to avoid the menace of ghost workers.

On several occasions, some workers in the council areas openly protested the non-payment of their monthly salaries and allowances without telling the world the real reason behind their rage: their opposition to the biometric data capturing exercise.

At a stage, the question people were asking is why should genuine workers in the state civil service or any organization be opposed to biometric data capturing especially as it has become a global trend for easy identification of individuals? What were the fears if they were qualified and genuinely employed?

But the resistance was a clear picture of how corrupted the civil service has become in the country over the years and the insistence by most state governments across the federation on biometric data capture of workers after the approval of the N18,000 minimum wage was to ensure accountability and transparency in the civil service.

Igbo and Yoruba culture clash Achebe and Igbo elite also insist Awo betrayed the Igbo by reneging on a promise to declare an Oduduwa Republic. Again that amounts to viewing reality only from Achebe’s ‘superior Igbo culture’. Ojukwu was not in a position to know all that transpired in the meeting between Awo and Yoruba leaders in early May, where Awo made the statement, but it is on record that Awolowo later led a delegation of Western and Mid-Western leaders to Enugu on May 6, 1967, to dissuade Ojukwu from seceding according to Hilary Njoku’s ‘A Tragedy Without Heroes’.

Both Ojukwu, who Professor Aluko said spoke better Yoruba than many Yoruba, and Achebe who lived in Ibadan, knew that Awo might have been revered by his Yoruba people, but that would not translate to Awo railroading the Yoruba to a war for which they were ill-prepared. With western Nigeria taken over by ’a northern army of occupation’ according to Awo himself, Yoruba would have asked him to first go and bring his children from London to lead the battle if he insisted on a mass suicide.

Achebe claimed Zik was cheated because of cross carpeting after the 1952 election he had won. Igbo commentators as a result of selective perception seem not to be interested in all available documents which have shown that what happened was not different from Igbo going into coalition with the north in 1959 and 1979.

But even if the story were different, bearing in mind our cultural differences, why should the decision of Yoruba elite to take their own destiny in their own hands in a federation where a northerner then controlled the North, an easterner controlled the East and Zik, based in Yoruba land using the platform of NCNC,

a Yoruba party which had only one Igbo man during its first inaugural meeting, to mobilise the Igbo who had by 1959 outstripped the Yoruba in education, become the basis for bitterness passed down generations by leaders like Achebe?

Would the Igbo elite which later schemed out Eyo Ita, a minority, as premier of the East have allowed a Yoruba man as premier of East in 1952?

Of course the Igbo had the right to self-determination following the pogrom in the north. But others from different cultural background would have adopted a different approach. For instance the Yoruba culture prepares you for decision making , leadership and bravery through all forms of allegories : “Emi ko leku, ki nje oye ile Baba re’’ ‘the faint hearted never inherits his father’s throne’ ; but you are equally warned , “ti owo eni ko ba te eeku ida, a ki bere iku ti o pa baba eni”. (If you don’t control the armoury, you don’t embark on a war of vengeance). Ojukwu was stampeded to secession with less than 200 rifles.

By 1968, with the fall of Enugu and defection of Zik, the war was effectively lost. But Ojukwu and Achebe extended the suffering of their people until 1970. Ojukwu returned after a decade in exile for an act of contrition by teaming up with his northern nemesis. He was later to work against the interest of June 12 and Yoruba, his host, by becoming an errand boy to Europe for Abacha.

Again, if Yoruba do not regard such celebrated Igbo leader a hero, blame it on Yoruba culture that inculcates the spirit of supreme sacrifice for your host in times of great adversity (Fajuyi chose to die with Ironsi). This is contrary to Igbo culture which according to Achebe expects Igbo who stay in

Abia’s scourge of ghost workers

By Frank Adimba So why were workers in Abia state opposed to the idea? The answer is now clear to Nigerians with the recent report of the exercise in the council areas which showed that not less than 1, 727 workers were ghost workers. These were workers that did not show up during the biometric verification that lasted for months, whereas they have been receiving salaries and allowances for years from the state government.

According to the chairman of the biometric data implementation committee, Cosmos Ndukwe, Aba South Council area with 245 ghost workers topped the list, followed by Isiala Ngwa South with 153, and Osisioma Ngwa with 138 ghost workers. Others were Ikwuano, 117; Umuahia North, 123; Umuahia South, 101; Isiala Ngwa North, 92; Umunneochi, 65; while Ugwuanagbo Local Government Area had the least with 28 ghost workers.

The committee had consequently recommended that the 1727 workers who did not show up for verification be removed from the payrolls of the councils where they existed less those that may have genuine excuses.

The outcome of the biometric data execise is a clear indication of what has been obtainable in the civil service both at state and national levels for years. It has exposed the level of corruption in the civil service which supposed to serve as the backbone of governance.

It was the same civil servants who would always accuse the government of not paying their salaries and allowances, but has at the same time made themselves a conduit to milk the government of public funds through the ghost-workers’ syndrome.

Government is a continuity and governance is all encompassing, because everyone who is in a leadership position at any level has a

role to play to ensure good governance but that has not been the case in Abia civil service as shown by the recent biometric data capture reports. It is clear now that civil servants are a stumbling block in the delivery of democracy dividends to people of the state.

If not, how would one explain that a small state like Abia state with 17 council areas, monthly allocation of N3.3 billion and Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of N250 million monthly and monthly wage bill of N2.5 billion cope with such number of ghost workers and be able to embark on any capital intensive projects as being witnessed in the state today? Among these are the construction of ultra modern workers’secretariat, international conference centre and other money spinning projects.

It takes more than prudence in the management of public resources for the state government to have been able to achieve what it has achieved so far. Now that Governor Orji and his government have been vindicated with the outcome of the reforms in the civil service, what next for those behind or responsible for the frauds in the service?

We have had such cases in the past where perpetrators of such frauds were left off the hook to enjoy their loots. Today top civil servants are among the richest Nigerians because they loot public funds with impunity, live above their incomes and acquire material wealth through proxies.

For these obvious reasons, Abia state government should act beyond accusing the top civil servants of aiding and abetting the menace of ghost workers in the state. It should bring all those who were directly involved in the fraud to book and retrieve from them all they have acquired with the loots over the years. Such action will serve as a deterrent to other workers with such intentions.

Other state governments should take a clue from the Abia government’s success in that

strange land to abandon their hosts “who know how to appease their gods when calamity befalls the owners of the land”. Igbo abandoned Lagos during the June 12 crisis to avoid becoming victims of war orchestrated more by their leaders. But again, MKO Abiola who on the eve of 1993 election predicted his martyrdom by making metaphorical allusion to those the Yoruba chose to carry sacrifice to the gods paid the supreme sacrifice.

What has become apparent from the foregoing is a clash of culture between the Igbo and their Yoruba host. It was precisely to forestall such clash in a nation with over 250 ethnic nationalities that Ahmadu Bello, one of our founding fathers had in response to Zik admonition that they should forget their cultural differences to hasten their task of decolonization, warned they should instead endeavour to ‘understand our differences.’

Tragically, over six decades after Ahmadu Bello’s warning, a segment of Nigerian ruling class made up of ‘vultures’ from the north, east and west, that have always exploited the divisive cultural differences, for personal gains such as becoming president without a political base, acquiring oil blocks, partaking in sharing of our national patrimony, and day light stealing of close to N2 trillion, still insist convocation of a sovereign national conference to discuss our differences is an invitation to disintegration of the country.

All our angry, educated but jobless youths want is good things of life. Too lazy to worry about the past, they have become miracle seekers who want victory without war. Their counterparts from the north earnestly yearn for a messiah. Youths who don’t understand where they are coming from cannot chart the way forward. The challenge is therefore before the current political ruling class. They must learn from the selfless sacrifices of founding fathers of America, Germany and present Russia to negotiate our own variant of federalism.

Every nationality has the right to choose its own hero as dictated by its culture. That is the whole essence of federal arrangement which as a social philosophy strives to liberate groups from the tyranny of the state. More than half of the world population has adopted one form of federal arrangement or the other.

Europe after two world wars is resorting to a federal arrangement. Britain has accepted the Northern Ireland challenge after 300 years of forced marriage. This is the time to liberate this nation from the strangle-hold of ‘vultures’. direction because the menace of ghost workers has become a tradition. Many see it as means of getting their share of the national cake.

That is why I subscribed to the call by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) governor, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi for a reduction in the over-bloated civil service because it has become more of a problem than solution to our country’s problems. Most of the civil servants like in Aba for example are more of businessmen and women than workers. They only go to offices when they like and when it is time to collect salaries and allowances. Majority of them are redundant in offices and public money which would have been used for the provision of basic amenities were being paid to them on monthly basis without them making any meaningful contributions in return.

The Abia discovery is an addendum to the various scams that have permeated the civil service across the country. Before now, we had pension scam, subsidy scam and other forms of scams perpetrated by top civil servants entrusted with public funds. With these sordid revelations, where is the moral justification for civil servants to criticize our political leaders, where they have failed in small offices entrusted in them? It calls for soul searching and sober reflection on where our problems really come from. Is it from us as a people or from leaders as custodians of public resources?

• Adimba, a youth corps member wrote from Abuja

‘The committee had consequently recommended that the 1727 workers who did not show up for verification be removed from the payrolls of the councils where they existed less those that may have genuine excuses’

I

Osaze’s axe is final—Big Boss •Osaze

•Idris, Mbah recalled

2013 AFRICA CUP OF NATIONS

Pg. 41

Pg. 24

Contract clause

may exclude Ameobi —Keshi

Sport Thursday, December 27, 2012

PAGE 23

•Okonkwo

FARO CAMP

Okonkwo, •Osaze

Idris out, Uche in

Pg. 24

NATIONSPORT THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

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NATION SPORT

NATION SPORT

Kanu: Eagles will win Nations Cup if....

F

ORMER Nigeria's captain Kanu, now a Nigerian football Nwankwo Kanu has stated that ambassador said he believes Nigeria the Super Eagles will only win is going there to win the cup. the 2013 Nations Cup if they have the "We should all believe in this, the belief. players should believe that we can achieve it but if there thinking is to go there and say well we will be fine if we can reach the semifinal then, they don't believe in theirselves.

"They should see themselves as a winning team and don't put their mind in some players that are not in the team said the two-time African Footballer of the year."

The former Ajax •Kanu star added that

Osaze’s axe is final—Big Boss

FARO CAMP

Okonkwo, Idris out, Uche in

•Idris, Mbah recalled

T

HOSE hoping to see Striker Osaze Odemwingie in the colours of Nigeria in the forthcoming Africa Cup of Nations, should start thinking twice, as Super Eagles Head Coach Stephen Keshi has ruled him out. Speaking in Abuja on Wednesday, the Big Boss said "the dropping of Osaze Odemwingie is final. He is not going to be part of the team to Nations Cup next year.

Maybe he would have other opportunities after the Nations Cup. I don't have anything personal against him, he was dropped based on professional basis.

I respect him as a player, he is very good, but it is quite unfortunate that he would not be part of this tournament". He further revealed that the duo of Papa Idris and Sunday Mbah who were earlier dropped, would now travel with the team today to Faro, Portugal.

•Okonkwo

Keshi wary of Spanish team

Contract clause

A

may exclude Ameobi —Keshi From Segun Ogunjimi, Abuja

N

IGERIA Football Federation are now set to formally report English clubs Newcastle and Millwall to FIFA. Both clubs seem intent on holding onto Shola Ameobi and Danny Shittu for Nigeria's preparation for the forthcoming African Nations Cup in South Africa.

Both clubs, through their coaches Alan Pardew and Danny Jackett - stated last week that the players will not be part of Nigeria's campaign in the championship billed to commence on January 19 but NFF 1st Vice President Mike Umeh said they will be reporting the case to FIFA should it be the plan of the clubs.

"We are waiting for what will happen in the next few days as we expect the players to be part of the team whenever their colleagues are arriving the camp in Portugal But if their clubs show signs of not releasing them for Nigera, we have no choice than to report them to FIFA which we are set to do.

"We have the right to call up these players and they have not told us that

they will not be coming for the championship. Even if they don't want to come, we have the right to stop them from playing for their clubs within the period of the tournament but we won't gain anything from that and the best thing is for the clubs to release them for us.

He added: "Every player that the coach has listed for the tournament is important and we won't allow any club to derail our plans.”

•Maigari

Emenike not returning to Fenerbahce —Moscow Coach

S

P A R T A K M O S C O W game. He later signed a multi coach Valery Karpin has year contract with Spartak denied reports in the Moscow.

Turkish Press that the leadership of Fenerbahce are negotiating with The Red and White to acquire Nigeria striker Emmanuel Emenike. ''No, nothing like that is even close. No talking has been conducted, and we are not listening to anyone,'' Karpin told F-Sport.

The earlier report claimed that Spartak Moscow were willing to do business with Fenerbahce if the Turkish club meets the player's 15 million euros valuation.

Emenike joined Fenerbahce in the summer of 2011 from Karabükspor but left the •Emenike Istanbul giants months later without playing an official

XED Levante striker Obafemi Martins has tipped Nigeria to win the Africa Cup of Nations in South Africa.

The 28-year-old Martins was one of several top stars axed by coach Stephen Keshi from a provisional 32-man squad. ‘Obagoal’ has said he is not disappointed he has been left out of the Nigeria squad to the AFCON next month despite his goals in the Spanish La Liga. He therefore said he believes the Eagles are good enough to land a third Nations Cup trophy in South Africa.

"They have a team who are capable of winning the Nations Cup without me. I wish them all the best in South

E

AGLES COACH Stephen Keshi has welcomed a January 2 warm-up against Catalonia, but hopes the cold weather in Spain will not affect his team. “I hear that 10 players from Barcelona will be part of the team, that is great news and it’s an opportunity for my boys to show that they have the capacity to play against the best footballers in the world.

The score line may not matter but we will not disappoint Nigerians,” said Keshi on the friendly. The coach though said he hopes the cold weather

Anichebe returns perfect timing, says Moyes

E

VERTON’s Nigerian striker Victor Anichebe has returned to first team action at just the right time club manager David Moyes said on Tuesday. The 24year-old showed little sign of lacking match fitness as he returned to the side and scored in last Saturday’s 2-1 English Premier League victory over West Ham leaving them fifth in the table.

Moyes, who has gained many admirers over the years for keeping Everton competitive by spending wisely the little money he has been allocated, is especially pleased Anichebe has returned now as the impressive Belgian international Kevin Mirallas is struggling with a hamstring problem. Anichebe may well lead the line against third from bottom Wigan on Wednesday.

“Victor has played very well. He is an important player for us and a lot of people under-estimate what

he can do for us,” said the 49-yearold Scot, who has been in charge of Everton for 10 years.

“Not having him available means we have not been able to change many things in the attacking areas.

“Not having Mirallas available for the last couple of months at different times has meant we have been limited in forward areas and probably not won as many games as we should have.

“We want to keep him (Anichebe) fit and him to have a bit of self-confidence and I am sure that goal will do that for him.”

Moyes, who has at times been slated as being the ideal replacement for Alex Ferguson when the venerable Scot steps down at Manchester United, will likely be without Mirallas while his highly-rated compatriot midfielder Marouane Fellaini is definitely out. Fellaini, who will be

•Keshi

Africa," said Martins when he visited a hospital in Lagos on behalf of his foundation on Tuesday.

“I will now enjoy my holidays and then return to Spain to focus with my club.” He made a donation of five million Naira (about $31,000) to a Lagos maternity hospital to help offset the bills of mothers who could not afford to do so.

Martins has featured in three AFCONS, in 2006, 2008 and 2010.

The former Newcastle and Inter Milan striker has scored six goals in 13 League matches with Levante, who are now sixth on the La Liga table.

‘Catalonia test will be tough’

•Ameobi

NFF set to report Newcastle, Millwall to FIFA

He expressed confidence on the abilities of the Super Eagles to prove book makers wrong in South Africa by returning with the trophy.

Martins backs Eagles for AFCON glory despite omission

2013 AFRICA CUP OF NATIONS

From Andrew Abah, Abuja

From Patrick Ngwaogu, Abuja

in Europe at this time of the year will not affect his players. This will be the second time the Eagles will clash with Catalonia having first lost 5-0 to the selected side in December 1998.

The other AFCON warm-up confirmed for the Eagles will be against Cape Verde in Portugal on January 9. The Eagles will depart for Faro, Portugal, Thursday afternoon through Accra, Ghana, to begin the final phase training for the Nations Cup.

Oyuiki Obaseki loses wife •As Victor Oduah dies on Christmas day

T

•Anichebe

serving the second of a three-match ban for headbutting Stoke’s Ryan Shawcross, will be replaced by Leon Osman, whose form recently earned him a call-up to the England squad at the relatively advanced age of 31.

HE former chairman of Nigeria Premier League Board, Chief Osayuki Obaseki on Saturday lost his first wife to diabetes in Benin City.

Chief Oyuiki Obaseki's wife was billed to travel to United State of America yesterday [Wednesday] for her medical check up before she ran into crisis.

“My mother” as she was popularly called by Chief Obaseki broke down in tears uncontrollable when former Super Eagles Coach, Austin Eguaevoen and some coaches paid condolence visit to the Palace High Chief over the passing away of his first wife.

Describing his wife as a mother, sister, companion, and a wife, the Ohe of Benin Kingdom lamented how he

From, Osemwengie Ben Ogbemudia, Benin will be able to manage the situation.

“Am relieved and fulfilled today that, my immediate family, the football family even the chairman of English Premier League Board have all called to condoled with me.

“When my mother died, I told people that my mother is still alive, but today, the story is different. How can I manage the situation now? As he broke down in tears.

“She was to travel today[ Wednesday] to Lagos rest on Thursday and travel to USA for medical check-up on Friday. She couldn’t get to the date. She gave me all the support as NPL chairman. I

will miss her greatly”.

Meanwhile, Former Bendel Insurance football club defender, Victor Oduah is dead. Oduah died on Christmas day (December 25) after a brief illness. He was also a former captain of the Green Eagles in 1972, where he was chosen to captain the Africa XI, the first Nigerian to achieve that feat.

Oduah was the captain of the famour Viper FC of Benin City that beat Mighty Jets of Jos 3-2 in the replay of the controversial Challenge Cup game played in Ibadan in 1972. He was at different times the team manager of Bendel Insurance FC of Benin.

Coach Austin Eguaevoen described the late Victor Oduah as a great footballer that will be missed by Nigerians and Football Family.

25

THE NATION

EDUCATION

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

INSIDE Valedictorian eyes finance minister’s job

Website:- http://www.thenationonlineng.com

email:- education@thenationonlineng.com

Four nationally-recognised days will be remembered in 2012 – not for the reasons they were instituted but how the events that shaped them, especially in the education sector.

KOFOWOROLA BELO-OSAGIE and ADEGUNLE OLUGBAMILA highlight the events and their effect.

MR Oluwole Babalola and his wife, Adenike were overjoyed when their 21-year old daughter, Oluwabusayo was named the Valedictorian of Crawford University, Igbesa, where she studied Accounting.

-Page 27

Covenant varsity promotes four professors

•The dons

THE Board of Regents of Covenant University (CU), Ota, has approved the promotion of four senior faculties to the professorial cadre.

-Page 37

CAMPUS LIFE •An eight-page section on campus news, people etc

Accreditation crisis rocks UNIABUJA FOR the University of Abuja (UNIABUJA), crisis seems to have become second nature. Since its establishment, it has been embroiled in one crisis or the other.

It has been rocked by another crisis, which led to its closure a few weeks ago. At the centre of the crisis is the non-accreditation of Engineering courses.

-Page 29

Save as News9 Edu folder 27-12 -12

•Students protesting UNILAG’s name change

Education’s defining moments •How UNIPORT four, UNILAG name change, flood, others shaped sector

I

N future, four national days in 2012, may mean different things to stakeholders in the education sector. They may become anniversaries of positive/ negative change, hardship, and sadly, deaths. From the fuel subsidy removal that delayed resumption of schools at the beginning of the year, to the matriculation of students in eight of the nine new federal universities the events that shaped these days were interesting.

But have their stories been fully told? That is the question, but what can be easilygleaned from it all is that some of the events took place on days of national significance.

JANUARY 1 When President Goodluck Jonathan announced the removal of fuel subsidy during his New Year address on January 1, its impact reverberated in every sector, including education. With the removal, the pump prize of the Petroleum Motor Spirit (PMS) that powers most vehicles on Nigerian roads, increased from N65 to N141.

Resumption day came after the holidays and the nine-day strike by the organised labour and civil society groups between January 9 and 16, but pupils in primary and secondary schools, and students in tertiary institutions could not resume

2012 IN REVIEW in many parts of the country.

Those who traveled with their parents for the yuletide season, especially to the Southeast and Southsouth, suddenly found that they could not afford fares to return to their states of residents because transportation cost tripled in some cases. Many parents had to stay back in their home towns for sometime before they could gather resources to ferry their families back to their base. As a result, their wards had to stay out of school briefly.

This was particularly obvious in Lagos, the commercial nerve centre of the countries which is home to 14 million people from various ethnic tribes.

When schools resumed, cost increased. Some schools reviewed the bill they had earlier sent before,

increasing the financial burden on parents, who had to increase the pocket money given their wards to enable them meet increased transportation costs. For those with children in the boarding school, it was tougher because cost of provisions and other essentials the pupils needed for school increased tremendously.

However, in some other parts of the country, like the Southeast and the Southsouth, where fuel had sold far higher than the N65 regulated price, the subsidy removal had minimal effect on school activities.

As another year draws closer, schools and parents are once more anxious about receiving another unsavoury New Year gift. Whether their anxiety will be confirmed will be known in four days.

MAY 29 On its calendar for 2012, the University of Lagos (UNILAG) had one

big agenda – its 50th anniversary celebrations. But death and politics intruded and altered the celebration from one of joy to one tempered by solemnity and protests.

Its 12th Vice-Chancellor, Prof Adetokunbo Sofoluwe, died Saturday May 12, four days after addressing his last press conference to inform the public about activities he and other principal officers had lined up for the anniversary.

The university community was still finalizing details for his internment the next day when President Goodluck Jonathan, shocked them with the announcement that the institution had been renamed Moshood Abiola University of Lagos (MAULAG) during his May 29 Democracy Day broadcast.

The President said the change • Continued on page 26

‘I would like to remind vice-chancellors, rectors and provosts that the safety of lives and properties under your headship should remain a major priority as we all know that without these souls and properties, there would be no basis for your appointment in the first instance’

THE NATION THURSDAY,DECEMBER 27, 2012

26

EDUCATION

Education’s defining moments • Continued from page 25

was in honour of Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola the late business mogul-cum-politician and the acclaimed winner of the June 12, 1993 presidential election.

While the National Association of Nigerian Students (NAN), some pro-democracy activists and members of the Abiola family applauded the change of name, it did not go down well with members of staff of the university, students, their parents, the Academic Staff Union of University (ASUU), and the UNILAG alumni association.

The students mounted a protest for two days from May 29, describing the president’s decision as the worst he had ever taken and vowing to resist it. They protested on the main campus in Akoka, and the Idi-Araba campus, which houses the College of Medicine, resulting in traffic gridlock which crippled business and social activities particularly in Akoka/Idi-Araba and extended as far as the third mainland bridge. It was only when the Senate of the university shut its gates on May 30 that the students were forced to retreat.

The UNILAG Parents Forum, workers, and the alumni association equally voiced their disapproval, claiming Jonathan’s decision was simply to massage the ego of those not happy with his administration, and expressing fears about the impact the new name could have on the university’s image.

The National Executive Committee, of the UNILAG alumni association, and the university’s branch of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) dragged the federal government to court over the matter.

However, those in support of the President’s decision pointed out other universities that had been renamed in the past, including the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, which used to be the University of Ife; the Nnamdi Azikiwe University (NAU), Awka, among others.

Those against the decision argued that UNILAG is the first university to be established by an Act of Parliament in 1962, adding that it has, over the last five decades, emerged a strong brand which should not be tampered with.

On his part, President Jonathan insisted on the name change and sent a bill to the National Assembly to amend the university’s Act on June 7. This is now on hold following the interim order by Justice Stephen Adah at the Federal High Court, Ikeja on July 4 that the Federal Government and other concerned authorities should wait until the final determination of the suit challenging the renaming the university.

OCTOBER 1 The sun rose on October 1, bright with hopes of a better future for Nigeria as it celebrated its 52nd Independence. The celebration became tainted with the blood of about 33 students of the Federal Polytechnic, Mubi in Adamawa State, who were killed by gunmen.

The method of execution sent shivers down the spine of many Nigerians. The assailants, wielding dangerous weapons, moved from house to house in an off-campus students’ neighbourhood, called out names of the victims and shot and/ or hacked them to death.

The gunmen, said to have worn military uniforms, operated for about two hours in the area that is just two kilometers away from the campus, unhindered by security operatives.

Given the spate of bombings and gun battles in some parts of the

country, there were initial concerns that the killings might have been carried out by the dreaded Boko Haram group, an allegation it denied.

However, there were claims that ethno-religious sentiments fueled by a contest between candidates from the North and Southern parts of the country for coveted position in the Students’ Union election resulted in the killings.

Many of those killed were from the Southeast geo-political zone of the country – with a sprinkling of northerners, suspected to be Christians, and one from the Southwest.

There were also Muslims among the dead. A resident was reported to have said: “It is not clear why some were killed and others spared - some of the dead were Muslims and others Christian… Everybody is scared.”

Refuting claims of political motivations for the killings, Rector of the Polytechnic, Dr Sadiq Girei said those responsible were not students.

“The incident that occurred in Mubi is not hooliganism and it is not cultism, neither is it linked to the post Students Union Government (SUG) election violence. From the school’s findings, six students of the institution were killed and four were injured. More so, the incident occurred outside the school and those who committed the act are not students as widely reported in the media,” Girei wrote in a letter to the Federal Government dated October 4, 2012.

Contrary to Girei’s claims, sources in the police said it arrested 30 people in connection with the killings, three of who were students of the polytechnic. The sources also confirmed that the killings were in connection with the election as many of those killed were among the winners or their supporters.

The Senate joined President Jonathan in condemning the killings. While Jonathan ordered security agencies to find and prosecute the murderers, the lawmakers urged Federal Government to invoke the provision of capital punishment on the perpetrators.

OCTOBER 5 The dust was yet to settle on the Mubi Killings when four students of the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) in Rivers State were killed in Omuokiri Aluu, a community that hosted many undergraduates of the university.

Their deaths were traumatic for many people because of the gruesomeness of the murders they watched on internet courtesy of some black-berry wielding spectators who recorded and distributed the videos through the social media.

The students, Biringa Chiadika (Theatre Arts), Ugonna Obuzor (Geology), Mike Toku Llyod (Civil Engineering), and Tekena Erikena (a Diploma student), were tortured and killed after a false alarm by someone who claimed to have been robbed of his laptop and a BlackBerry phone.

They were said to have demanded the repayment of a loan from the alarmist, whose property they allegedly seized to force him to pay.

But things went awry when he raised alarm that he was being robbed and the community, said to have been terrorized by robbers, pounced on the boys and killed them.

Four days later, angry students of the university stormed the community, burnt some houses, cars and other properties to revenge their deaths.

The Rivers State Police arrested

•A candle light procession organised in honour of Mike and the others the mastermind of the murder, Coxson Lerebori Lucky, aka Bright and many others.

In light of the incident and the killings at Mubi, which happened just four days apart, the Education Minister, Prof Ruqayyat Ahmed Rufa’i, charged managers of tertiary institutions to make the safety of their students a priority.

Speaking at a function in Ilorin, the minster said: “I would like to remind vice-chancellors, rectors and provosts that the safety of lives and properties under your headship should remain a major priority as we all know that without these souls and properties, there would be no basis for your appointment in the first instance.

“The protection of lives and properties of your students, even when they live off campus should be of utmost concern, especially when it is not absolutely their choice to live off campus, but because we cannot afford to accommodate all of them on campus,” she said.

Other significant events in 2012 Floods that sacked schools In March, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) warned that the year’s rains would be heavy and that irregular flooding would affect 23 states. When the prediction was made, not a few scoffed at the possibility of there being more than 230 days of rain out of the 366 days of the year in some places.

However, when the floods finally came between August and October, its effects were overwhelming in the affected states.

The flooding, the worst in Nigeria in the past 40 years, displaced over 1.3 million Nigerians and claiming over 431 lives across 30 of the 36 states of the federation, according to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).

The agency said flooding started in Plateau State, coursed through Borno, Cross River, Ebonyi, Nassarawa, Bauchi, Gombe, Katsina and Kebbi states in August, before sacking Taraba, Benue, Niger, Kaduna and Kano in September; and its last victims- Delta and Bayelsa states in September and October.

At the height of the flood, angry waters forced people from their homes. Heavy rains affected over 350 communities in Bayelsa and Delta.

Schools were not spared. In Kogi State alone, the Commissioner for Education Mrs Dorcas Elebiyo said 548 primary and secondary schools could not open according to the state. She said affected schools lost

•Pupils wading in flood waters on their way to school

furniture and other equipment. In Taraba State where over 100 schools were submerged, while in Adamawa State, 89 schools were similarly ransacked by flood forcing the government to postpone resumption of schools indefinitely.

The scenario was the same in Taraba State where over 100 schools were submerged by flood in several communities. Children in Lau, Karim-Lamido, Ardo-Kola, Gassol, and Ibbi Local Government Areas could not attend school because their structures had either been washed away or submerged.

Cross Rivers State was not better of as the flood covered 13 schools with Biase local government having the lion’s share of six of the 13 schools in the state.

Schools in Anambra, Benue, Bayelsa, Cross Rivers and other affected states were also closed.

Survival became more important than education as parents battled to rescue farmlands and produce destroyed by the floods.

Some schools that were not affected had to be converted into camps for the displaced.

New Federal varsities matriculate 2,391 students It is not all convocations of federal universities that the Education Minister, Prof Rukayyat Ahmed Rufa’i, attends personally.

That is why her participation in the matriculation of eight of the nine universities established in 2011

demonstrates the seriousness of the federal government in ensuring they live up to expectation.

Prof Rufa’i has been busy this month jetting to the different towns that host the new federal universities, in company of the Executive Secretary, National Universities Commission (NUC), Prof Julius Okojie, preaching to the pioneer students and lecturers, the good news of the transformation agenda of the Jonathan administration.

The universities that have matriculated students are: Federal University, Dutse, Jigawa State; Federal University, Dutsin-Ma, Katsina; Federal University, Kashere, Gombe State; Federal University, Lafia, Nasarawa State; Federal University, Lokoja, Kogi State; Federal University, NdufuAlike, Ebonyi State;; Federal University, Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State; and the Federal University, Wukari, Taraba State.

The Federal University, Otuoke, Bayelsa State, is the only one yet to matriculate students due to the flooding that submerged most parts of the state in October.

Everywhere she went, Prof Rufa’i said the investment in the institutions is to ensure they can play their roles in producing high capacity graduates who can help transform Nigeria.

She also said the bill legalizing the nine universities have been signed into law.

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

27

EDUCATION

Crawford varsity valedictorian eyes finance minister’s job R Oluwole Babalola and his wife, Adenike were overjoyed when their 21year old daughter, Oluwabusayo was named the Valedictorian of Crawford University, Igbesa, where she studied Accounting.

She made a 4.87 Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) and carted away numerous prizes during the fourth convocation of the universitylast week.

Amid resounding applause, and flashes from cameras, Babalola clinched the Prof Peter Okebukola’s Prize for the overall best graduating students; Parents’ Forum Prize for the Best overall Graduating Students; Messrs Adebo Ojo&Co. Prize for the graduating students with the best overall result in Accounting; The best graduating student in the College of Business and Social sciences; and Departmental prize for the best graduating student.

Ironically, her parents favoured Medicine above accounting and pressured her in that direction.

But the closest she got to Medicine was an admission to study Zoology at the University of Lagos five years ago.

Recounting Busayo’s admission experience, Mrs Babalola said: “Immediately she finished her secondary education, she gained admission to UNILAG. She was their best student in Zoology, but we did not like the course. We wanted her to study Medicine. So we decided she took another entrance examina-

M

By Adegunle Olugbamila

tion. They (UNILAG) did not take her again and it was then we asked her which course did she want to do since she was a science student?

She now opted for Accounting. We suggested Computer Engineering but she said ‘Mummy, I want to do Accounting’. They later gave her admission at Crawford.”

Busayo nurses a dream to sustain her father’s legacy as an accomplished accountant – her reason for choosing Accounting.

And she does not just want to be a good accountant, she told The Nation of her desire to become Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) or Finance Minister in future.

“I dream to be the Minister of Finance or CBN governor someday.

I am not actually contemplating the idea of becoming a lecturer. If God grants my prayers and I get there (as CBN governor), I want to be able to use my knowledge and ideas to improve the country’s economy. I have always wanted to be an Accountant, so today, the success is a dream come true.”

While in school, Oluwabusayo, the first of six children, said she did not do anything extraordinary to make her result. She said she was neither an efiko (bookworm) nor the type that burns night candles to stay atop.

“I study and go for lectures like every other student”, she said adding, “Even at my leisure, I love ‘gisting’ with my friends. When it

•From left: Representative of the National Universities Commission Prof Segun Balogun; former Vice-Chancellor Obafemi Awolowo University Ile-Ife Prof Olu Faborode; Pro-Chancellor/Chairman of Council Crawford University Igbesa Ogun State Prof Peter Okebukola; Chairman of the university's Board of Trustees Dr Gabriel Ajayi; Visitor to the university Rev. Emmanuel Adeniran; and Deputy Governor (Operations) Central Bank of Nigeria Mr Tunde Lemo (right) at the university's convocation. inset:Oluwabusayo PHOTO: ADEGUNLE OLUGBAMILA

comes to games, I do not have preference, I play any kind of game with my friends. Everything I do is normal. I do not create special time for studying. I just believe my victory is through the grace of God and not extraordinary efforts.”

Though she never anticipated emerging the overall best student, her father did.

“Yes. We have always been looking forward to that. Right from her primary and secondary school, she had always shown traits of being a

genius and so we are not surprised she’s being celebrated today,” Pastor Babalola, a banker, said.

While giving praises to God, both parents said they pay attention to their children and monitor their studies. They said since they observed their daughter’s brilliance from infancy, they spared nothing in encouraging her success.

Now that Busayo is an accountant, would they still encourage her for another degree in Medicine?

“Not really, chipped Pastor Babalola. “At any point in time,

College gets SUG committee

Ministers counsel teachers on training

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•NTI trains 40,000 nationwide

A

S 40,000 teachers wrap up the 2012 Millenium Development Goals (MDGs) in 109 centres nationwide on Saturday, the Education Minister, Prof Ruqayyat Ahmed Rufa’i has counselled them to put their new knowledge and pedagogical skills to good use in the classroom.

She was joined in admonishing the teachers by the Minister of State for Education, Chief Nyesom Wike, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on MDGs, Dr Precious Gbeneol, and the Lagos State Governor, Mr Babatunde Fashola, while flaggingoff the programme last Friday at the Event Centre, Agidingbi, Lagos.

The training, being implemented by the National Teachers Institute (NTI), Kaduna, was organised for primary and junior secondary teachers teaching the four core subjects of English Language, Mathematics, Social Studies, Basic Science and Basic Technology. They will also be learning about language communication skills, effective classroom management, basic teaching methods, and information communication technology.

In her speech, Prof Ahmed Rufa’i said the workshop is part of the Continuing Professional Development of teachers “which will assist and equip teachers to acquire, develop and refine their knowledge of subject matter and pedagogical skills for effective performance in the classroom. The re-training programme under the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) was conceived to provide for the time-lag between pre-service training received by serving school teachers and the experience acquired during the service.”

there is Plan A and Plan B. Medicine was Plan A and Accounting was Plan B which is as good as Plan A.” At present, Olubusayo who is currently doing her one-year mandatory National Youth Service Corps in Enugu State, is about to write her final stage in ICAN examination.

‘My advice for everybody is to remain focused and had at the back of your mind that except divine assistance, you cannot do it alone,” she said.

•From left: Dr Sharehu discussing with Prof Rufa’i, Chief Wike and Mrs Oladunjoye at the event.

PHOTO: BOLA OMILABU

By Kofoworola Belo-Osagie

She expressed confidence that participants would become better professionals afterwards.

Corroborating her, the Minister of State for Education, Chief Wike, said it would give teachers who did not get requisite training opportunity to update their skills, urging them to take the training seriously.

He said: “The teacher who, for obvious reasons, could not afford to enroll for higher education is sure to be out of date with current trends in education practice. Unless such a teacher is supported through Continuing Professional Development Programmes (CPD) such as the MDGs workshops, he/she will not have any relevance in the present day classrooms. World over, the role of the teacher is gradually changing due to emerging trends and values in the society. It is in realization of this that the Federal Ministry of Education is committed to the re-training of teachers in order to continue to have qualitative teachers for our schools, most especially primary and junior secondary

schools.”

Director-General of NTI, Dr Aminu Ladan Sharehu said the training is being funded from the Debt Relief Grant through the MDG Office.

He expressed confidence in the quality of resource persons and training manuals, which he said would ultimately help teachers improve learning outcomes of their pupils if they make good use of them.

“The workshop training manuals are self-instructional in nature, and the Institute, being an active and strong member of the consortium of Teacher Education in Sub-Saharan Africa (TESSA) anchored by the National Open University, UK, has developed and integrated some TESSA modules into the re-training manuals in order to enrich them with numerous activities that are very vital in assisting to improving the performance of primary and junior secondary school teachers. These manuals will equally remain as reference and resource materials for teachers even after the workshops,” he said.

On her part, Dr Gbeneol said the MDGs office, has been able to train over 700,000 teachers from the debt relief grants since 2006.

“It is on record that during the first edition of the training programme in 2006, the institute trained 141,144 teachers across the nation. In the next edition of the programme which was held in 2008, another set of 156,592 teachers were trained. In 2009, a total of 120,000 teachers were also trained.

In 2010, 140,000 teachers were trained while 125,000 teachers of both primary and junior secondary schools were trained in the year 2011. As the institute sets out to train another batch of 40,000 teachers this year, it is expected that 722,736 Nigerian teachers would have received the training since inception,” she said.

Thanking NTI for mounting quality workshops for teachers, Fashola, who was represented by the Lagos State Commissioner for Education, Mrs Olayinka, Oladunjoye said the state would partner with the Institute to improve its teachers.

HE Management of Adeyemi College of Education, Ondo has inaugurated the Students’ Union Constitution review committee.

According to a statement by the Head of the Public Relations Unit of the College, Mr. Moses Akinfolarin, the 12-man committee is made up of representatives of the suspended SU executives, religious bodies, hall of residence and the Student Representative Council.

The members are: Morakinyo Tosin Isreal, Alade Oyindamola, Ayebidun Modupe, Aliyu Habeeb, Oloyede Saheed, Adeolu Abolade, and Akande Oluwatoyin.

Others are Igbekoyi Olusola, Anjorin John, Saleyi Ayowole, Bolorunduro Sunday, Oloyede Adebayo.

The Deputy Registrar, Legal Unit of the college, Mr B.A. Yusuf has been appointed as thei legal adviser.

Some of the committee’s terms of reference include: review of the SU constitution; how it can be amended in line with acceptable democratic norms; as well as elimination of errors, and possible recommendations.

In his opening remarks, the Provost of the college Prof Adeyemi Idowu, described the inauguration of the committee as another landmark in the history of the college and the way forward.

He noted that during the inauguration of the last student union executive, he had challenged them to review the constitution in order to meet present day student unionism.

Prof Idowu also recalled that the investigation panel of the last student crisis in May this year also recommended that a committee be set up to review the constitution as appropriate.

He urged the members of the review committee to take into consideration that the college is basically for NCE graduates and thus should reflect in composition of the student union executives.

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

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EDUCATION EKSU FILE US envoy visits EKSU THE United States ConsulGeneral in Nigeria, Mr Jeffrey Hawkins has praised the students of Ekiti State University (EKSU) for their interests in academic programmes as avenues that could make them good leaders of tomorrow. Hawkins, who came with the Public Affairs Officer of the Consulate, Dehab Ghebreab, educated the students on graduate and post-graduate programmes in universities in the United States.

Earlier, the students led by Adeoye Aribasoye had asked several questions and made comments on the provision of infrastructure for the university and areas of academic development for students.

Shortly before the session, the visitors were led to the ViceChancellor’s office by the State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Eniola Ajayi where the VC Prof.

Patrick Oladipo Aina told them of plans to make EKSU a world class university.

VC marches with students THE VC, Prof Aina, few days ago, participated in a solidarity march with students. He led the students from the main gate to the various venues of their screening exercise.

The students, who were visibly happy with the good leadership example of the Vice-Chancellors, quickly mobilised others through mobile phones to join the exercise.

The march also encouraged the students to participate in the screening exercise meant to determine the authenticity of their studentship in the University.

In the mean time, only the main gate has been approved for students and staff to enter the university.

New CSO appointed A NEW Chief Security Officer (CSO) has been appointed for EKSU. He is Capt. Augustine Ajayi.

Captain Ajayi’s appointment, according to the university Registrar and Secretary of Council, Dr. Omojola Awosusi, took effect from December 6 this year.

Foundation refurbishes libraries

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EACHERS in three public schools in Lagos are happy with the Western Union Foundation and the Daniel Ogechi Akujobi Memorial Foundation (DOAMF), for refurbishing their libraries.

The Western Union Foundation, the CSR arm of the international money transfer firm, partnered with DOAMF, a non-governmental organisation, to rehabilitate the libraries of Isolo Comprehensive Secondary School, Isolo; Ikota Primary School and Ikosi Senior Secondary School, Ketu, provide relevant furniture, and stock them with books, computers as well as internet access needed to operate an online library.

The project, tagged: Read to Succeed, is a three-year commitment by the Western Union to help meet global education needs.

Principal of Isolo Comprehensive Senior High School, where the event was held Mrs Modupe Adegbulugbe, spoke the minds of the teachers at the launch of the libraries when she described the facilities as very useful in providing information and inspiration for young minds. She said the school would not hesitate to also allow pupils from the neighbourhood access the facility to improve their reading culture.

"The library is beautiful and special. It is filled with shelves of books and computers, with internet facility.

It is an e-library and the first of its kind in this environment. These collections are balanced and comprise relevant and quality materials," she said.

While praising the groups, the Assistant Head Teacher, Ikota Primary School, Mrs Olufunke Adewule, promised to ensure good use of the facility. She said the school would in-

•Mrs. Sotonye Akujobi, DOAMF Trustee, Mr Ebere Nwaolikpe Assistant Marketing Manager Western Union and Mrs. Shirley Bassey another DOAMF Trustee

By Adegunle Olugbamila

clude library period in the timetable to allow pupils enough time to use the facility.

In her speech, the Western Union Regional Vice President for North Central and West Africa, Aida Diarra, said the project was a clear demonstration of the willingness of the Western Union and its agents to support development and initiatives in education. She said the foundation is partnering with NGOs by provid-

ing funds to improve the learning environment of pupils and enhance their overall academic performance.

"The programme will provide an average of up to $10,000 per day for more than 1,000 days in potential Western Union Foundation grant funding for non profit, non-governmental organisations working in the education space, including support for one million days of school through a new corporate marketing campaign," she said.

The DOAMF Programme Man-

‘The programme will provide an average of up to $10,000 per day for more than 1,000 days in potential Western Union Foundation grant funding for non profit, non-governmental organisations working in the education space,

ager, Mrs Clare Henshaw, who said that over N9million ($57,902) was mapped out for the first phase of the project, added that it would also complement President Goodluck Jonathan's Bring Back the Book reading campaign launched last year.

She said the need for well-equipped libraries became necessary after a needs assessment survey by the foundation revealed that schools either lacked reading materials or had obsolete library facility.

Mrs Henshaw also noted that while some schools did not have befitting libraries, others merely had book shelves, with insufficient furniture for pupils.

"Developing reading habits and culture will improve the nation's human resources, thus supporting the leaders of tomorrow. This project is a demonstration of how DOAM Foundation is dedicated to the enhancement of education in the lives of the less-privileged children," she said.

ASCON gives pass mark at retreat

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HE Administrative Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON) has held its annual top manage-

ment retreat with its Director-General Mr Ajibade Peters giving the college a pass mark even as the year wraps up.

The retreat is held annually to appraise the challenges, performance and achievements of the college.

At the institute Professor A.D Yahaya lecture theatre where the event was held last Tuesday, its Director-General Mr Ajibade A Peters, said the gathering is a forum for directing staff of the college to rub

By Popoola Aminat

minds and reflect on their performance from the beginning to the end of the year, and to build the potentials for a brighter future.

“I am satisfied to recount that the college remained focused on its march to greatness as could be gleaned from successes recorded in our activities in 2011 and 2012. According to our records, our performance score sheet for the year put the number of participants that benefited from ASCON programmes in 2011 at 6,064. 1, 204 public servants attended the two-

week regular programme while, 2,868 attended tailor-made, and 1,992 participated. In 2012, 3,190 benefited from the programme, 613 attended the two- week programme while 1,117 attended tailor-made and 920 participated in the ad-hoc programmes”, Peters explained. He added that from the results of the evaluation of programmes, the trainees were very pleased and satisfied.”

One historic achievement, Peters recalled, was in 2011, when, for the

School wins 18-seater bus at competition

A

•Mrs. Grace Feyisayo Atobatele (second left front row) receiving a gift item from the Director-General, Administrative Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON), Badagry, Mr Ajibade Peters (right front row) in honour of her 30 years meritorious service to the college. Middle (front row) is a colleague, Mr Dickson Ebong holding the gift, while other workers cheer during the end-of-the-year party held at the college.

PHOTO: ADEGUNLE OLUGBAMILA

first time in the history of the fourdecade old institution, it made a breakthrough into the Nigerian Army resulting in the training of 20 high ranking officers. The development, according to Peters, has impacted positively on ASCON image at national and international levels.

In addition, Peters said, the college organised promotional examinations for 4,000 public servants at the state and the federal levels.”

PRIVATE school, Blevour Children’s School, Awodi-Ora, Ajegunle has emerged the overall winner of the Bobo Kiddies Brainy Contest. For its effort, the school went home with the star prize- an 18-seater Ford branded in the company’s name.

The contest, one of the Corporate Social Responsibilities (CRS)of the premium food drinks company, Bobo Foods and Beverages Nigeria Limited, had the first runners up, Providence School, Fagba-Agege, Lagos, winning complete library set with multi-media computers; while the second runners up, St. Bernadette School, Festac, Lagos was presented with a printer and photocopier machine.

Interestingly however, the overall winner of the contest was shoulder to shoulder head-to- with the second runners up with 16 points each, giving a cause for a fresh round of contest which eventually saw Blevour Children’s School slam Providence School in a 1612 tie.

Overall, the final scores as declared by a representative of Bobo, Mr Adekunle Curtis were 32 and 28 re-

spectively, while St Bernadette School had 12 points.

According to the co-ordinator of the programme, Mr Ayodele Salami who also doubled as the Managing Director, (Advertising Options), the kiddies brain contest was specifically designed for school pupils to identify, recognise and reward academic excellence, especially, participants mastery of current affairs.

“This is the third edition of the competition, which is part of the company’s contributions to the development of education in the state and the country as a whole. For instance, last year, the project gulped millions and everybody was happy. The winning school won the star prizes, while the parents of the pupils that led the competition won cash prizes respectively. The amounts ranged from N100, 000.00, N150, 000 and N200, 000. The overall winner, who won a school bus, also received N100, 000.

Salami said arrangements have been concluded to nationalise the competition, which he said is currently, a Lagos affair.

29

How Nigeria can attain economic growth Page 31

Work for *CAMPUSES college’s *NEWS good, *PEOPLE Fashola tells *KUDOS& council KNOCKS Last week, all hell was let loose at the Ekiti State University (EKSU) following the death members of a final year student of Accounting, Teslim Adebola Ibrahim. OLATUNJI AWE reports. *GRANTS Page 34

THE NATION

CAMPUS LIFE 0802-4550-354 email: ladycampus@yahoo.com THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

Website:- http://www.thenationonlineng.net

‘Aluta is not about violence’ Olanrewaju Balogun has been sworn in as president of the Students’ Union Government (SUG) of Lagos State Polytechnic (LASPOTECH).

Balogun, a former Social Director of the union, speaks of his plan for students in this interview with MICHAEL ORODARE (ND II Mass Communication).

The University of Abuja (UNIABUJA) has been shut indefinitely, following a students’ demonstration over non-accreditation of some courses. OLIVIA USHIE writes that students may not return until the courses are accredited.

• The main gate of Gwagwalada campus of UNIABUJA

Accreditation crisis rocks UNIABUJA F

•Olanrewaju •Continued on page 30

email:- campuslife@thenationonlineng.net

OR the University of Abuja (UNIABUJA), crises seem to have become second nature. Since its establishment, it has been embroiled in one crisis or the other. It has been rocked by another crisis, which led to its closure a few weeks ago. At the centre of the crisis is the non-accreditation of Engineering courses.

Engineering students went on the rampage as they demonstrated over the non-accreditation of their courses. They destroyed properties and defaced the Vice-Chancellor’s portrait which they removed from the administrative building and took to the boys’ hostel. The school has been shut indefinitely.

The incident happened when the institution was preparing for the second semester examination.

The students, it was learnt, held a peaceful protest the first day but changed tactic following the deploy-

ment of armed Fulani herdsmen, who allegedly arrived in campus shuttle vehicles to chase the protesters out of the campus.

CAMPUSLIFE gathered that the inability of the UNIABUJA management to secure the accreditation of the National Universities Commission (NUC) for courses in four faculties - Engineering, Medicine, Agricultural and Veterinary Medicine after six months deadline by the Minister of Education, Prof Ruqayyatu Rufa'i, was led to the protest.

The university established the four faculties seven years ago but without adequate facilities. The Faculty has Mechanical Engineering, Civil, Chemical and Electrical and Electronics Engineering departments.

Our correspondent learnt that in May, student-demonstrators besieged the Federal Ministry of Edu-

cation to draw the minister’s attention to their plight. When she was informed of their presence, Prof Rufa’i was said to have invited the students for a meeting in her office.

At the meeting, CAMPUSLIFE gathered that the minster gave the students the options of either leaving the school or enrolling for other accredited courses. But when she noticed that the student did not buy the idea, the minister was said to have given the UNIABUJA management six months to get full accreditation for its medical, agricultural and engineering courses.

To ensure a successful exercise, it was gathered that N4 billion was given to the university to upgrade its facilities before the accreditation team arrived.

A protester said: “We kept ourselves abreast of the movement of the money from the ministry to the

‘The protest was prompted by the deceit of the Vice Chancellor, Prof Sunday Adelabu, after six months of promising us to get our courses accredited by NUC and COREN. We will make sure no student returns to the campus until the accreditation is secured’ school’s bank account. We thought the money would be used judiciously but, here we are; nothing has been done to upgrade any facility in the Faculty of Engineering.”

•Continued on page 30

•YABATECH registration closes tomorrow -P32 •Imo gives scholarship to students -P33

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

30

CAMPUS LIFE

Pushing ‘Pimps are the most Out with successful businessmen Agbo Agbo on campuses’ •aagboa@gmail.com 08052959489 (SMS only)

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WO days after I wrote my piece on "When runs become the norm on campuses" (November 29, 2012), I got a call from an anonymous student caller who simply referred to himself as an undergraduate in one of the 'big' universities in the south west. In the almost one hour we spent on the phone-at the expense of my caller- discussing issues on campuses I learnt quite a lot and I wept for this country. My caller told me that the student union officials I quoted in the column were right in their assertions and I should not struggle with the issue of percentage. He said he is a pimp and he's not apologetic about it; along the line he said: "Pimps are the most successful businessmen on campuses" which I'm using as the title for the column today.

In that piece, I had written that: "One of them told me 'authoritatively' that about 80 per cent of students in tertiary institutions in Nigeria engage in one form of 'runs' or the other. "Runs,' according to him "cuts across prostitution, peddling leaked examination question papers, drug trafficking, cultism, writing exams on behalf of other students, acting as middle men for Juju priests, acting as 'leg men' between dubious lecturers and student etc. I told him that 80% is quite a high percentage to categorise students, but he stood his ground claiming he's right with his assertion."

After our discussion I "filed" the key points I could remember somewhere on my laptop hoping to revisit it sometime only to read the report by Gilbert Alasa, a student of University of Benin, Benin City. The

report compelled me to address the issue while it is still hot. My caller gave me insights into how the "business" operates and why some of them that are "bold" go into it.

He claims to be a 300 level Economics undergraduate and discovered the business "by chance". "I gained admission into the university in 2009" he told me "but things were really tough for me initially because I come from a very poor background, for most of my first year and the first semester of my 200 level, I eat only once a day. But what I lacked through poverty, I gained by being forceful and bold, that boldness brought me into the business".

Giving me a bird's eye view of the "business" he said there are different categories of pimps, there are high and lower cadre. The high cadres are those that play on the international scene, those handling clients that need the service of girls abroad. "When you work for clients of this nature you select girls with international passport who must have travelled out of Nigeria at least once. This is the best part of the business I love because the clients and middle men are polished, polite and you are paid up front, so it has a lot to do with trust and carriage."

This cadre is usually interested in Nigerian girls that can grace their parties or other functions abroad; he recounted a story where he organized thirty girls from three campuses for a former Governor for a party in the Caribbean. The girls, he claims, were flown out on a chartered flight and when they came back "they were fully loaded with gifts of all nature, I got my first Blackberry from one of

Crisis rocks UNIABUJA Continued from page 29

Our correspondent learnt that when the NUC team visited last month, the institution was only able to secure interim accreditation for three faculties. Faculty of Engineering was left out because the team discovered that the facilities being used for teaching were outdated.

This prompted Engineering students to gather their colleagues to protest the outcome of the accreditation.

They accused the management of insensitivity, saying the interim accreditation it secured for the other faculties was not reliable.

The students complained that since 2005 when the faculties were established, no student has either graduated or gone on National Youth Service.

The Faculty of Engineering has two graduate sets already but none of them has been mobilised for Service.

There is also the complaint that Coun-

cil for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) has yet to accredit the institution’s four engineering courses.

In medical college, there are students, who have spent eight years without moving to the next level.

Five sets with different matriculation numbers are said to be in 200-Level without writing the MBBS professional exam that will get them to the next level.

A 2010 Engineering graduate said: “When the faculties were instituted in 2005, we learnt that NUC advised the management not to operate the four faculties at the same time because of the facilities on ground at the time.

“But the school went ahead, ignoring the warning. But since the programmes began, none has been accredited. When I was in school, all the engineering practical classes we did as undergraduates were conducted at the Federal University of

the girls". Since it may be sometime difficult to find thirty willing girls from the same institution, he said they usually encroach into another pimp's territory, but they have to settle the pimp depending on the number of girls recruited.

The second category, according to my caller, is those that play on the Nigerian scene. They are basically interested in one night stands or overnight parties. This is the category where politicians and business moguls play. But he stated that these people work with people they can trust and ensure that they seize all Blackberry or camera phones from the girls before bringing them over because of fear for their reputation. The girls, he says, understand this part of the deal and believe that a night without calls will do them no harm.

As a student of Economics, my caller said his future is already guaranteed as the forces of demand and supply will ensure that he is in business from both his clients and the girls.

He said he's already a millionaire at 23 years old without stealing, cheating, engaging in drugs or cultism. "Sir, I'm a very serious student, I don't joke with my studies and my lecturers know that. You know there is unemployment in the country and if as a student I am gainfully employed, should I be worried when I graduate? I have even employed two bright boys on campus working for me, when I leave I'd be overseeing them from off campus".

As our discussion progressed, he told me he reads Ngozi- my late wife's column weekly and mine since I took over after her death- but feels we are naïve moralists who fail to see that times have changed, that in our era things were not as tough as they are now. At a point I asked if he ever thought about the girls he recruits for his clients and whether he would recruit his sister for one of them? The line went silent at the other end for a while, then he answered that some of the girls use the money to pay their fees and take care of their needs. I was patient enough to drive home my point, which I believed he understood but was blinded by the gains of the business to answer.

What intrigued me about my anonymous

Technology, Minna (FUT MINNA) because UNIABUJA did not have the facilities. Even in Medicine, different sets have been lumped together because of the accreditation crisis.”

Tunde Adeosun, Civil Engineering student, said: “The protest was prompted by the deceit of the Vice Chancellor, Prof Sunday Adelabu, after six months of promising us to get our courses accredited by NUC and COREN. “The commission's accreditation team came for third exercise last month after which we can now talk about proper accreditation. But nobody knows the outcome of the verification exercise and yet they want us to keep quite while our future hangs in the balance.

“We will make sure no student returns to the campus until the accreditation is secured.”

Other students, who spoke to CAMPUSLIFE, said they would fight on until the courses are accreditated.

Efforts to reach the Registrar, Mallam Mohammed Moddibo, failed as calls to his mobile phone was not available.

• CAMPUSLIFE’s Joyce Marcus (second left) with classmates Ebi Ikhine (left), Timi Smiles (second right) and Doris Chidozie after their convocation at Benson Idahosa University (BIU), Edo State....recently.

caller was his level of coherence in defending what he believed in. Even though we play on two diametrically opposing camps, I sensed a leader that can be mentored to channel his intellect toward something he can be proud of. I tried the best I could to let him know that any form of success predicated on the debasement of another human being is not true success. Agreed, he may have three cars on campus and a room to himself, that in itself does not amount to success. If he's reading this today, we can still talk.

After he hung up I reflected deeply on the strange call. What I could deduce was a young man who was already feeling guilty for his actions and is trying to look for a vent to pour out his heart and maybe in the process be "commended" for being enterprising. But I believe it never crossed his mind that he is putting the future of some girls in jeopardy by providing a platform for promiscuity. I looked at the other side of the coin as well, which is poverty and I asked myself if he had money would he have gone into the business? When I asked him that question he was silent and honest enough to say he does not know. Throughout our discussion, never for once did my caller falter, he spoke impeccable English, unlike some undergraduates these days which led me to believe the aspect of his being a serious student.

Alasa's report published as our cover story last week corroborates what my caller told me. According to the report, many undergraduates are smiling to the bank, courtesy of a booming business called "pimping" on campus. They (pimps) cruise about in posh cars while their colleagues cramp into rickety campus shuttles. They live large on campus even though the source of their wealth cannot be openly discussed. From the comfort of their off-campus hostels, they negotiate high-profile deals with powerful personalities while their mates sweat it out in stuffy libraries in school.

While we debate the falling standard of education, infrastructural decay, incessant ASUU strike, skyrocketing fees and the myriad of problems confronting tertiary education in Nigeria, we now know that we have a bigger social issue to contend with in a society that has gone haywire.

‘Aluta is not about violence’ Continued from page 29

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OU were the Social Director of the union in 2008, what were your achievements?

I promoted talent hunt shows on campus to showcase the gifted students in music, comedy, dancing and others. I make bold to say that this institution never had it so good in social life until we came on board in 2008.

What do you think can be done to make LASPOTECH Students' Union Government (SUG) effective?

There are so many changes to be made, but I will highlight the few ones I consider salient. There is need for re-orientation of students to make them have positive perception about unionism. The general public must also be informed that students' unionism is about contributing positively to the lives of the students, the institution and the host communities.

Most union leaders believe in Aluta as the best strategy to whip management into line. What is your take?

Aluta and unionism are not about violence. Aluta is about struggle for what is right through legitimate means that should not cause any harm to the school and students. But rather than engaging in violence, my strategy will be consultation, consolidation before confrontation.

If management introduces policies that are not in the interest of students, we will engage the authorities in peaceful dialogue, failure of which may lead to peaceful protest.

Members of the management are parents, who must care for students.

So why must we choose violence?

What are the plans of your administration for students?

Our priorities remain scholarship, entrepreneurship and empowerment. We have many brilliant students who find it difficult to pay school fees. We will identify those

students and give them scholarship, which will be achieved in partnership with well-meaning individuals and private organisations in the society. The entrepreneurship scheme and the empowerment programme will emphasise on students' skills in order to make them self-dependent financially. We will organise trade fair for students to have the opportunity to showcase their products to the public and achieve prosperity. I believe all these are achievable and we are already working towards achieving them.

What are the qualities of a successful student leader?

A students’ union leader must possess intelligent, humble, friendly and above all he must fear of God to be successful. I make bold to say I possess all these traits.

How would you incorporate other members of the executive into your programme?

Like I said on the day of our inauguration, the mission of my administration is to promote unity and solidarity in a healthy atmosphere.

If we must promote unity and solidarity in the polytechnic community, it must start from us as members of the students' union.

What is your take on the speculation that the management has plans to hike school fees?

It is not true. To the best of my knowledge, there is no planned increment in school fees.

What do you want to be remembered for when you leave next year?

I want to be remembered for every good programme we are going to execute. I want to be remembered for hosting the first LASPOTECH trade fair; for laying the foundation for a successful award of scholarship to students, and empowerment programme. I want to be remembered for promoting peace and unity in the polytechnic.

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

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CAMPUS LIFE

How Nigeria can attain economic growth

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OW can Nigerians become prosperous? It is by allowing them to pursue their dreams in a peaceful environment according to participants at the yearly Leadership Retreat of the African Liberty Organisation in Lagos.

Corps members and students from some institutions, including the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), University of Ibadan (UI) and Moshood Abiola Polytechnic (MAPOLY), Abeokuta, attended the three-day seminar, with the theme Promoting liberty and freedom on campuses.

The Director of Outreach of the organisation, Mr Dayo Thomas, charged the participants to engender discourse that would change Nigeria’s destiny for good. The nation, he said, needed the capitalistic economic model to move out of its fiscal quagmire it.

Thomas said African Liberty believed in freedom of the citizenry to pursue free and fair trade rather than donation of free gifts to people as espoused by socialist ideology, which he said had ruined many countries in recent times. He cited prosperity achieved by countries such as Singapore, Taiwan, Korea and Japan as product of keeping faith in free trade model, which he said remained the crux of capitalism.

“That majority of the people living in Nigeria today live below $2 per day is no news again.

But how do we move out of this developmental crisis? African Liberty believes that every hu-

By Wale Ajetunmobi

man being is gifted with skill and resources, which other people in society may need to continue the symbiotic relationship of exchange.

But government itself constitutes the biggest hurdle against realisation of free trade, which has the potential to make the most wretched human to achieve prosperity in the shortest possible period,” Thomas noted.

He said Nigerian leaders must know that the only way to reduce poverty to its barest minimum was to give people the freedom to exchange resources without the government control. He added that Nigeria would achieve meaningful growth only if the government could hand off the lever of economy to the free marketers.

“Libertarians don't sleep about; they read and engage people in discussion about salient developmental issues affecting the wellbeing of people in the society,” Thomas charged the participants, who were left to engage in intellectual discourse after the seminar session.

To ensure the ideals of free market and capitalism are properly propagated, the participants went on an outreach campaign to meet people one-on-one on why they must be prosperous. From Oshodi to Lekki, the libertarians engaged commuters in discussion about free trade and capitalism, giving out compact disc labeled “Ideas for a Free Society” to the willing people.

They outreach was ended at Elegushi private beach on the Lekki axis of Lagos, where the participants went to relax after the day activities.

• Thomas talking to the students during the seminar

• The students at Elegushi Beach displaying the “Ideas for a Free Society”

The Students’ Union Government (SUG) of the University of Calabar (UNICAL) has held the Mr and Miss UNICAL Beauty Pageant.

ISAAC MENSAH (500-Level Medical Laboratory Science) and STANLEY UCHEGBU (400-Level Accounting) write.

• The new Mr and Miss UNICAL

• Female contestants at the show

I

T was a unique Saturday.

That day the University of Calabar (UNICAL) came alive with the hosting of the Mr and Mrs UNICAL Beauty Pageant by the Director of Socials, Students’ Union Government (SUG).

Students of the institution and Cross River University of Science and Technology (CRUTECH) trooped into the main bowl of the Cultural Centre, Calabar, the venue of the event. The show was also witnessed by some government officials.

Comedians such as AY, Koboko, MC George, Whokares, MC Jhokes and MC Owondo thrilled the students with jokes.

The Disc Jockey, DS Cherry, dished out the music of popular singers, including upcoming

A pageant for the gifted artistes from the institution.

The beauty pageant the day’s main programme, was sponsored

by Airtel Nigeria. It was grouped into five stages. At the first stage, the sense of fashion of the contestants was tested as they cat-walked on the runway.

The female contestants came back on the stage the second time. This time, the male contenders joined them. They were all clad in cultural attires, making the scenery reminiscent of medieval African society.

Each participant was asked what persuade him to contest for the pageant.

The most thrilling session of the show was the fourth stage, which featured talent presentation. Contestants, in native attires, displayed

various traditional dance steps.

They were also tested in presentation, drama skills and creativity.

During the final stage, contestants were in their element as they strove for the coveted position.

They were dressed in sleeveless gown that hardly buried their cleavages. The panel of judges, which comprised Charles Otudor, the Chief Judge, Mrs Cassandra Idiagbo, wife of Cross River Commissioner for Works, and former Miss UNICAL, Miss Precious Obetan, commended the contenders for their display of intellects and talents.

The contestants were judged by their presentation, cat-walks and answers to general questions.

There was tension in the hall as the audience awaited results from both the male and female category.

Fifteen contestants battled for the male title while 15 girls contested for the female title. The judges called the best five female and male contestants to dance in order to ease off the tension.

In the end, Young Iferi, 100-Level Genetics and Biotechnology, won the male title. The female category was won by Sophia Dijeh, 300-Level Theater Art and Media Study.

Otudor told the defeated contestants to accept defeat in good faith and urged the winners to be good ambassadors of the institution.

Josiah Eghrudje, SUG’s Director of Social and the organiser of the event, said: “The success of the

event shows that the students appreciate the activities of the union.

I never expected such turnout. I thank God that everything went well.” Irene Ituen, Vice President, was glad that the union achieved success with the event.

One of the members of the audience, Mary Anne, a student of Education Administration and Planning, said the beauty pageant was always entertaining but “I don’t think any responsible girl will want to subject herself to intrigues and scheming involved during and after the show because the male judges at times asked the female contestant for sex in other for you to win.”

A contestant, who identified herself as Jenny, commended the organiser for bringing such event to the institution. She said campus beauty pageant was not meant for wayward girls.

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

32

CAMPUS LIFE Fellowship fetes finalists

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• Prof Chima (third right) with members of the school’s principal officers after the lecture

11th inaugural lecture at IMSU

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PROFESSOR in the French department of Imo State University (IMSU), Dominic Chima, delivered the 11th inaugural lecture of the institution last week. He spoke on the topic Retranslating African Literary Classics of English and French Expressions. The ceremony, which attracted notable personalities from Owerri, the state capital, was held in the expansive university auditorium.

The lecture started at 10am when the Vice-Chancellor, Prof B.E. Nwoke, led a procession of the body of principal officers and lecturers into the hall.

Prof Chima, during the lecture,

From Enyia Chidiebere and Ekene Ahaneku IMSU

said translation was a peculiar area of human endeavour, saying a literary author must translate a literary test in the way the interlocutor said it without any variation. He cited that some literary texts translated by the Eurocentric white fell short from the correct literary translation of the texts.

He added that a translator must follow the rule of syntax and semantics and translate the way a text was written.

In conclusion, the lecturer said: “Whereas African literature has

hitherto received inadequate and malicious translations, it is possible to recreate our literature in any language of our choice and still retain the essential ingredients of its original versions.”

Speaking to CAMPUSLIFE, Prof Val Obinna, an attendee, said that the inaugural lecturer chose an area that was not quite familiar to academics.

He pointed out that the colonial masters took undue advantage to translate local languages to their own without understanding of the context, cultural, psychological and philosophical context of the people.

He gave instances on how syntax and semantics and also proverbs could be translated.

HE members of the Apostolic Church Students’ Fellowship of Nigeria (TACSFON), Adekunle Ajasin University Akungba-Akoko (AAUA) chapter, have held a send forth programme for their colleagues graduating from the university.

The three-day event with the theme Solution to Generation featured activities such as football match and thanksgiving service. According to the coordinator of the Final Year Brethren (FYB) in the fellowship, Ebenezer Ogunleye, 400-Level Philosophy, the programme was to prepare the graduating students for the life ahead.

Reading from Isaiah 58:12, the guest Minister, Pastor O. Oyebode from the Great Light Mission (GLM), charged the students to increase their faith in God, saying, “God is the source of all solution, yours is to connect with Him”.

The students recount their experience in the course of their stay on campus and gave glory to God for success in the journey to graduation

T

Ilaje students honour monarch at Eja Day

HE National Association of Ilaje Students, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) chapter, has held its annual day in grand style. The event, which was tagged “Eja day”, was held at the lower buttery of the Adekunle Fajuyi hall.

Welcoming guests to the occasion, the chapter president, Julius Mogbojuri, gave glory to God for seeing the association through series of problem it had encountered.

He said: “When our administration came on board, we made moves to enhancing our members’ welfare and eliminate the challenges they face on the academic front. This reason, coupled with some others, prompted the organisation to hold a day like this.”

From Kemi Busari OAU

Mr Ayo Igbasanmi, who represented the Permanent Secretary of Ondo State Oil Producing Area Development Commission (OSOPADEC), Dr Mann Ali, delivered the keynote lecture titled People and their monarchs in a democracy.

The lecturer noted democracy, as the best form of government, had two key features, which were universal suffrage and periodic election. “Democracy can be differentiated from governance.

Governance connotes good government in the sense of greater

efficiency, transparency, accountability and rule of law. But democracy unaccompanied with governance is an experiment without substance,” Igbasanmi noted.

On the role of monarchy in a democracy, the lecturer stated that colonialism and incursion of military men in politics made the institution of monarchy to undergo change from unquestionable imperial status to subservient leadership.

The highlight of the occasion was the investiture of Oba Afolabi Odidiomo, the Olu of Igbokoda, as the royal patron of the association.

In his response, the king who was a former Public Relations Officer of OAU Students’ Union, thanked the students for the honour.

AAUA

from the institution. They however offered sacrifices of hymns, thanksgiving and dances to appreciate the love of God in their lives.

Oluwakemi Adu expressed appreciation to God for saving her from fatal accident that would have destroyed her destiny. Also, Steven Ojo, told the congregation how he was rescued from death. Ifeoluwa Fanimokun and Temitope Aro shared testimony of “God’s faithfulness” in their lives.

The fellowship’s sister coordinator, Oluwaseun Adegboye, said: “We are all going to miss the graduating students because they have made impact in the fellowship.”

The President of the fellowship, Kehinde Fagbemi, sent text messages to the outgoing brethren. The message reads: “Meeting you at a time like this is a privilege but unfortunate we will soon part in flesh. I pray for God to lead you aright and to find favour in all facet of life.”

Mass Comm holds lecture

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ONSUMERS don’t abandon brands but brands abandon consumers, Business Director, Verdant Zeal Limited, Mr Lanre Oyegbola, was quoting Phil Dusenberry, during the 9th Mass Communication Forum held at the Caleb University.

The lecture, which centred on the Importance and Significance of Culture in Brand Marketing, emphasised the need for marketers to always be updated on the cultural orientation of their customers for their brands not to be abandoned. The lecture was chaired by the Dean, College of Environmental Sciences and Management, Prof Bode Ogunrayewa.

Oyegbola described culture as a learned system of knowledge, behaviour, attitudes and beliefs shared among group of people and also a continuous learning process. He stated that for a brand to succeed, the focus must be on creating a product or service targeted at an identified group of people who have needs and also delivering the product or service in most efficient ways to the identified group of people.

The lecturer made reference to Jack

T • From left: The Vice-Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University, Prof Bamitale Omole, with Adetola Adeleye, best graduating student with the highest number of honours and another professor during the convocation ceremony of the institution...recently

From Babatunde Alao

From Tomiwa Bello CALEB

Welch, former Chief Executive Officer of General Electric (GE), who said his company had only two sources of competitive advantage, which were the ability to learn more about the customers faster than the competition and the ability to turn what was learned into action.

Dr Charles Nwachukwu, a lecturer in the department, noted that the lecture placed emphasis on the product rather than the consumer. He asked if culture alone could influence brands, and not the other way round.

At the end of the lecture, Janet Jiya, 400-Level student of the department, won an award for exemplary conduct towards the development of the department. She is the first student of the department to have received such award for the second time.

The Head of the department, Prof Nosa Owens-Ibie, used the opportunity to announce the membership of the department in the International Association of Media and Communication Research (IAMCR).

YABATECH registration closes tomorrow

HE December 28 deadline for registration for the new academic year at the Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH), Lagos will not be extended despite complaints by students.

The Rector of the institution, Dr Margret Ladipo, who stated this in an interview with CAMPUSLIFE, said the current registration period was three weeks instead of the normal two weeks.

Ladipo, who spoke through the Public Relations Officer, Mr Adekunle Adams, said the college was committed to giving quality education and would not tamper with the academic calendar by extending the registration period.

Following the resumption of the new academic session of the college

From Mark Orgu YABATECH

on December 10, December 28 was fixed as deadline for registration. Some students however complained that the time allowed for registration was too short to raise the required fees.

Consequently, the Students’ Union Government President, Afeez Babalola and VOTESA President, Kunle Taiwo have urged the tudents to comply with the deadline while urging the school authorities to extend the deadline.

“All students should comply with the deadline and avoid extra fees that may be imposed by the college for late registration. Education is expensive but it is a valuable asset,” Babalola stated.

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

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CAMPUS LIFE

Imo gives scholarship to students W HEN the news of Imo State government’s scholarship scheme hit the town, many students thought it was a gimmick from the officials of the government. But when the scheme was launched at the Heroes Square, Owerri, students rushed to the venue to get the cheque, which confirmed the government is sensitive to their welfare.

The process of application for the scholarship was stringent due to number of signatures that must accompany the form. Months after, indigent students were given scholarship worth hundreds of throusand of Naira to aid their tertiary education.

Over 19,000 students of Imo State origin benefited from the scheme, which the Governor Rochas Okorocha said remained the cardinal programme of his administration.

Addressing the student, Okorocha said: “Education must be free so that the children of the poorest of the poor will go to school. Only wise men prepare for tomorrow. I was born by a pauper, which made them not to support me as they supposed to.

My parents are poor. Education is free in Imo state. Nothing can be done

• Students at the event

Students honour lecturers

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HE conference room of the Faculty of Education, Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria was filled to capacity as students from across faculties trooped into hall to witness the awards being given to some lecturers.

The event was organised by the students of Education faculty to say “thank you” to their lecturers.

The awards were in recognition of the contributions of the lecturers’ commitment. One of the organisers, Isah Nuhu, who is an outgoing member of the Students’ Representative Council, said: “We are honouring our lecturers

From Awwal Mijinyawa ABU

because of their contributions in our lives. They are not only lecturers but also our parents.

Apart from teaching us, they also have time to advise us as parents would advice their children. They have imparted so much to us.”

The recipients of the awards included Dr Abdullahi Dalhatu, Prof Jonathan Salihu Mari, Dr Binta Abdulkarim and Mallam Dankolo Aliyu.

Responding on behalf of the awardees, Dr Abdulkarim thanked the students for the

• Dr Abdulkarim responding on behalf of the lecturers

honour, charging them to put more efforts in academic work.

She said for any student to achieve excellence, he must work hard.

A

S parts of effort of leaders of the Students’ Union Government of the Federal Polytechnic, Offa (OFFA POLY), to tackle insecurity, the union has partnered with vigilante group in the host community to ensure security of lives and property on the campus.

The SUG executive renovated the vigilante’s office to strengthen security.

Insecurity has been major concern for the management in the recent time. According to the president of the union, Hammed Omuiyadun, the step became necessary to ensure adequate security of live and property in the off-campus hostels.

He said the move would also forestall any crisis that may want to arise between students and their

Xmas carol at TV College

T

From Gotodok Lengshak TV COLLEGE

in encouraging the students who are going on break to celebrate Christmas in a Godly way and reduce acts that tend to displease God on a day that Christians are suppose to please him. A night of this nature, though fun-filled, will redirect the mindset of student to dedicate themselves to God.” In a short exhortation, the guest preacher, Brother Lucky Wudaba, a graduate of the University of Jos (UNIJOS), drew the attention of the congregation to the love of the Christ in their lives, which warranted his death on the cross.

Taking his lesson from Mathew 5: 1-5, Wudaba said people must either accept Christ or reject him through their deeds. “Jesus Christ is no longer the baby that was given birth to, he is now a savior

IMSU

without education. Therefore Imo state is preaching the gospel of free education. I took oath to my creator that whenever I get to a seat of authority, education must be free.”

Institutions that benefited from the scholarship included Imo State University (IMSU), Imo State Polytechnic, Umuagwo and the College of Health, Amaigbo.

Okorocha promised to extend the scheme to indigent students at other state-owned institutions.

One of the beneficiaries, Obinna Emerenini, 200-Level Industrial Microbiology, IMSU, said: “At first, I thought it was a joke from politicians. But when I went to my traditional ruler, His Royal Highnes Eze Ahaneku, and he told me that my name was shortlisted, I was shocked into reality. Today I am happy I have my cheque and will soon go and make my school fee payment.”

The indigent students beamed with happiness as they collected their cheque at the venue.

Union partners vigilante group on security

• Students in candlelight session during the carol

HE main auditorium of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) Television College (TV COLLEGE), Jos, was filled to the brim as Fellowship of Christian students (FCS) in the institution held its Christmas carol night.

Members of the fellowship were dressed in red and green Ankara to match the colour of the decors in which the hall was draped.

President of the fellowship, Faith Thomas, while speaking, explained that organisation of the event became pertinent as many student celebrate Christmas without knowing the reason for the celebration.

She said: “We hope to tell people the rudiments about the birth of Jesus Christ which is the basis of the Christian faith and him being the reason for the season which we celebrate. This will go a long way

From Ekene Ahaneku, IMSU

and the job of salvation which he brings with him will continue to manifest until the world tarries.

Christ through his birth and mortality has made us immortals and this cannot be taken away from Christians,” wudaba said.

Various songs were rendered by Top Jos Gospel orchestra invited for the occasion. The fellowship choir also thrilled the congregation with its breathtaking performances. A candlelight session was also held to pray for peaceful crossover into the New Year.

Deborah Yusuf, 300-Level Journalism, speaking to CAMPUSLIFE, said the fellowship should be commended for the carol programme because “it unites Christians on the campus.”

Damion Foe, a Production student, said despite hitches, the carol night was a successful.

• The renovated security post

From Akinola Oluyi OFFA POLY

hosts.

“We learnt there was crisis between the students and the vigilante group some years back and since then, there has been mutual suspicion between the students and the host community. This is why we are here now to revive the mutual understanding,” Hammed said.

Omoniyi Olagoroye, ND II Business Administration, commended the step taken by the union, adding “I am happy to witness various developmental projects the union executive, especially the introduction of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) to the school.”

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

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CAMPUS LIFE Serving Corps members in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have held a cultural day at the orientation camp in Kubwa, Abuja to celebrate the country’s cultures. GERALD NWOKOCHA writes.

• Man O War cadets during their match pass

Corps members’ cultural day

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HE parade ground of the Abuja orientation camp of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) was draped

in beautiful decors. Various canopies and tents were erected on the field. The Corps members abandoned their official khaki uniform for cultural attires.

During the cultural parade, every member strove to ensure that his dressing depicted the part of the country he comes from.

Mr Philip Ukoh, who represented the NYSC Director General, Brig Gen Nnamdi Okorie-Affia, praised Corps members for their large turnout.

The 09 bikers, a club of power bikers in Abuja, entertained the participants with different stunts on their bikes. The leader of the club,

• Corps members in Platoon dancing at the event

Charles Oputa, popularly known as Charley Boy, advised the Corps members on safety. Corps members were educated on how to use helmets, amour guards, knee pads, elbow pads and gloves.

The camp officials and the state coordinator, Mr Frank Ekpunobi, marched round the parade ground from one tent to another to salute each platoon of Corps members.

Each group was allowed to make a presentation.

Other contests organised on the day included dance and meal competition.

The Man O’ Wars cadets were not left out in the display. They matched round the field, with

their bags strapped to their backs as though they were marching to a war front. The cadets lifted bags of rice with their teeth.

In military fashion, soldiers deployed to the camp also performed various stunts. They held the audience spellbound when they started using their hands to break plastered bricks and bottles.

They also used their teeth to lift blocks as they danced round the field.

NYSC officials participated in the dance contest, which featured Osita Osadebe's songs. Ekpunobi won the overall best dancer but all the staff members that participated in the dancing received gifts

from the Nigerian Breweries Plc. Each platoon presented its traditional dance steps. Members of Platoon 10, who won the cultural display, came out with cultural attires that reflected the dress senses of all the tribes in Nigeria. They also showed the mode of greetings of the tribes.

Members of the Orientation Broadcasting Service (OBS) presented a chorography. Also some Corps members in the HIV/AIDS Community Development Service held awareness on how to prevent the spread of the deadly disease.

•Continued on page 36

Work for college’s good, Fashola tells council members

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AGOS State Governor Babatunde Fashola has urged new members of the Governing Council of Adeniran Ogunsanya College of Education (AOCOED) not to betray the trust reposed in them.

Speaking at their swearing in, Fashola tol them to refrain from anything that would compromise them.

They are former Deputy Governor Abiodun Ogunleye, Mrs Oladapo Odunlami and Mrs Victoria Peregrino.

Represented by his Special Adviser on Education Otunba Abdulfatai Olukoga, the governor said: “You are enjoined to live above board as one proven act of corruption is one mistake too many.

The fact remains that you are not new to governance in the state.

You have been dependable partners in the new Lagos State project under the responsive leadership of Governor Fashola. I, therefore, charge you to use your rich, robust and diverse professional experiences to improve on the quality of education being dispensed by the college.”

He implored the trio to see their appointments as noble call to contribute to the growth and development of the state, adding that they should priortise interest of the college in their agenda.

Welcoming the new members, AOCOED Council chairperson, Dame Victoria Akran, expressed appreciation to Governor Fashola for enriching the council with people of proven integrity.

She said: “You are taking up membership of the college's council at a time the 53-year-old institution - the first tertiary institution established by the state government - is entering a cru-

By Adegunle Olugbamila

cial phase in its effort to reposition itself as the nucleus of qualitative teachers’ education delivery in the country.

“Settle down quickly, and join hands with other council members as well as all other stakeholders in the efforts to place AOCOED at the highest in the pantheon of teachers' education delivery institutions. It is our collective belief that only the best is good enough for the college.”

Akran continued: “The quality of NCE graduates in the country still leaves a lot to be desired. We need to sharpen the skills and competences of our teaching and non-teaching staff to be able to produce graduates that can compete with their peers anywhere in the world.”

She challenged the college's Provost, Mr Wasiu Bashorun, to come up with plan for accelerated development in the areas of sport, community relations, internally-generated revenue (IGR), quality control, staff welfare and collaboration with local and international institutions and organisations, adding that such plan would be the council's plan for 2013.

Earlier in his welcome address, Bashorun expressed thanked the governor for his support in the areas of physical development. While commending Olukoga, the Provost requested more funding for the college.

He said the completion of the gigantic administrative block under construction and the commissioning of the Information and Communication Technology centre and the medical clinic block were of concern to his administration at the present.

Responding on behalf of two other council members, Prince Ogunleye pledged the college would witness deployment of their rich experience to make the college better.

• The college’s Legal Officer, Mrs Awobiyi Fadekemi (left), with Peregrino (middle) and Ogunleye before the swearing in rite

•Members of the council with Mr Olukoga (front row middle) flanked by Mr Bashorun (left) and Mrs Akran after the ceremony

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

35

CAMPUS LIFE

“A

MAN can die but once", William Shakespeare said some centuries ago.

When the Bard of Avon expressed this immortal axiom, he must have made that remark about great men like himself and the likes of Justice Babakayode Eso, who died last month.

In his book, For Whom The Bell Tolls, John Donne observed that: "No man is an Island, entire of itself; everyman is a piece of the continent, part of the main;...Any man's death diminishes me, because I am involved in mankind; and therefore send to know for whom the bell tolls; it tolls for thee."

Unfortunately for death, as it tolls its bell, it cannot silence the legacy Eso left for the legal profession and the good virtues he bequeathed to students to emulate.

Learn as if you were going to live forever, Mahatma Gandhi posited, adding "live as if you are going to die tomorrow."

News of Justice Eso's death hit the nation like a 21st century version of Hiroshima blast. On the fateful Saturday - November 10 at the basement of Faculty of Law, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), after the announcement, students started recounting his intellectual achievements and per-

Kayode Eso: A tribute sonal meeting to mourn the foremost jurist.

Dayo Ogunyemi, the immediate past president of the OAU Law Students Society (LSS), regretted his inability to hold a personality lecture for the late justice.

He said: "I remember I was discussing with members of my executive council about the annual Kayode Eso Lecture. I blame fate that we could not hold the Kayode Eso lecture during my own time despite that we made necessary arrangement for it. We wanted to do it on the 25th of August and it didn't hold.

"The second time, I went to see Baba Eso for the new date of the lecture. He told me he never subscribed to the idea of holding the programme in November. It was as if he knew death was coming.

He did not approve the November date we presented to him. Baba Eso travelled and never returned from that journey. It was as if he knew about his imminent death.

So he was prepared for it."

Eulogising the late jurist, a Law student said: "Baba lived to fight the cobwebs of technicalities and injustice. Baba inspired my own

life. I remember that he was the first person to encourage me as president of Law students told me: "your advocacy skill is real, you will make a good lawyer" and that stoked my interest further. If my story would ever be told, they would say that I lived during the time of Justice Kayode Eso." It really showed that Justice Babakayode Eso was a great legal luminary; he did not only touch his immediate environment but also touched the lives of the people, who are far away from him. A 300-Level student of Law told this writer how she was privileged to meet and rubbed minds with him. The student said her life changed after the conversation.

Baba Eso was a legal octopus, jurisprudential 'iroko', and intellectual per excellent. I recalled the dissenting landmark judgment he made in the case of Shagari vs Awolowo. I believe that the works and landmark judgments of Baba Eso will continue to enrich legal profession in Nigeria.

Today, this concept referred to as "Fundamental Human Rights" after the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights by United Na-

tions has not only come to stay, but has won a Nigerian citizenship by its domestication in Chapter IV, Sections 33 - 44 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Trust Justice Eso, he did not fail to remind us in the case of Ransome-Kuti vs Attorney General of the Federation (1985) NWLR (pt 60) 221 that: "fundamental human rights are rights which stands above the ordinary laws of the land and which in fact is antecedent to the political society itself. It is a primary condition to a civilised existence..."

Baba Eso, the "Mystery Judge" (an allusion to his 'not guilty' dissenting judgment in favour of Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka, the Mystery Gunman, who stood trial in the 60's for his role in an 'offensive' broadcast) lived life as a principled man.

Emeritus Professor D.A Ijalaye, in his third Fellows Lecture on Corruption in the Public Service of Nigeria: A Nation's Albatross at the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies in July, 2008, lived proved William Shakespeare's assertion wrong that: "the evil that men do lives

By Opeoluwa Sonuga

after them; the good is oft interred in their bones." I can't agree less with the legal giant, for Justice Eso affected lives in his sojourn on earth. The good testimonies of the touched people was not interred with the bones of the late jurist when his remains were buried last week. Indeed, Justice Eso lives on in our heart.

Opeoluwa, 300-Level Law, OAU

Letter to Imo SUG exco

By Chidiebere Enyia

A

PHILOSOPHER once said: “Politicians think of next election but leaders think of next generation.” The administration of Rex Okoro as the Students’ Union Government (SUG)

president in Imo State University (IMSU) is turning out to be one of the worst we have witnessed over the years.

My complaint is based on the lackadaisical attitude of the present SUG administration to the plight of students in the university.

The officials only think of what they will gain and not the legacy they will leave behind.

To be frank, I have lost confidence in Rex as the president, having waited for months for him to deliver on the promises he made to us during his campaign. I am absolutely disappointed with the level of moral and social decadence among students, which has left me to wonder whether we have a union that can effect the desired change on the campus.

It is obvious that the interests of students are not represented. Going by the outcome of a recent opinion sampling conducted by a group of CAMPUSLIFE writers, students are dissatisfied with Rex’s

administration because it has not represented them well. Rather, the union officials have enriched their pockets with students’ dues.

The attitude of our SUG leaders on campus is a reflection of that of politicians in government. Politicians forget about the masses after winning election. This is also the character of our SUG leaders on the campus.

I still recall vividly how Rex came to power. He practically begged for our votes, cajoling us that he was the expected Messiah.

Many students hoped that Rex becoming the SUG president would transform the institution with his campaign promises of effective representation. He swayed and mesmerized majority of the students to vote him in.

Reports had it that some students even contributed money to support his campaign after a captivating speech he delivered at Okwu-Uratta Alliance Forum meeting. Today, what do we get

after our confidence in him? His attitude has convinced many of us that majority of students seeking for various positions in the union are pretenders. They tend to be humble, gentle and cheerful when they are seeking for offices but after winning election, they show their true colour.

The hike in transport fare, and high cost of food on the campus are the examples that show that Rex-led union is insensitive. Students can no longer afford hostel accommodation. What is now the essence of SUG if not for the betterment of the members? What is it that this administration has provided for the students? Is it clean environment, scholarship, or what? Still, Rex makes us know each day that he runs a charismatic leadership.

I urge management to check the activities of the union, especially the in-house wrangling among the members of the executive and issuing of SUG receipts by

unauthorised persons. Some of the issues raised above led to the absconding of some members of the union from their responsibilities.

The new administration of indefatigable Prof Awuzie Ukachukwu appointed by our outstanding governor Owelle Rochas Okorocha has shown that it will not condone impunity. We believed in the charismatic leadership of the new VC and his ability to take us to the promise land and correct the anomaly in the union.

The union leaders should be made to know that students want an effective and efficient representation that will advance their interests. I know that this piece may not be in agreement with views of the union’s sycophants.

The truth need to be told no matter how bitter it is to the ear.

Chidiebere, 300-Level English and Literary Studies, IMSU

Beyond the Christmas fanfare HEN Christmas, which was celebrated on Tuesday was approaching, television, radio stations and other media daily reminded us of its essence. Prices of commodities were hiked as people shopped for wears and gifts for the Yuletide. Our highways were blocked as many travelled to their home state to spend the festivity period with their loved ones.

Festivals of nine lessons and carols as well as Father Christmas shows were held across the globe. Children excitedly looked forward to the day as they would make money through their series of “Christmas visits”. But beyond the fanfare, celebration and show of love, there has been the question as to the real purpose for which Christmas is celebrated and how December 25 came to be associated with Jesus’ birthday.

Christmas, derived from Christes Maesse, literally means the Mass of Christ, is a traditional holiday in the Christian calendar. The festival of Christmas takes place on December 25

W

in most countries while a few, especially Egypt and Asia Minor, celebrate Christmas on the 6th of January.

What are the reasons for this disparity in the date of the celebration? Was Christ born exactly on December 25 or 6th day of January? Do people still know the reason for the season?

A pastor and a management staff of Power Holding Company of Nigeria, Ughelli Power Plc, Mr M.A. Ajide, an engineer, insisted that Christmas is supposed to be the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ even though Jesus Christ was not born on December 25. He told me Jesus Christ was born sometimes in September but said December date was chosen to be the celebration of Mars by those who worshipped the goddess of the sun, who also used the cross as their religious emblem.

As read in history, the Roman Empire wanted unity between those who worshipped Mars and Christians, who then agreed to celebrate Christmas on the 25th of December. The Christians agreed to December 25th be-

cause they were not particular about the date of the celebration but the salvation of souls and the propagation of the gospel.

Pastor Ajide said his personal opinion as a preacher of the gospel is that December 25th should be a day of sober reflection by which everybody will look back and say: “do I exactly live my life for the purpose for which Christ came to the world and not forgetting Christ’s exhortation in Luke 19:13 in which he said: ‘Christians should occupy till I come’?”

Engr. R.O Ojo, another staff of PHCN, told this writer that the word 'Christmas' should not come into play at all because there was no place in the bible in which it was specifically stated that Christians should celebrate any such thing as Christmas. He said emphatically that he doesn't celebrate the day.

If Christmas is not stated in the Bible, why are Christians then celebrating Christmas? A woman once told me Pentecostal faithful celebrate the birth of Christ on the 25th of December because it is the day that is generally ac-

cepted in the Christendom to herald the birth of the saviour who came to redeem mankind from sin. It is said that even the leaves do take a different shape at the period and everything seems to be completely special.

Do Christians still celebrate Christmas in the proper way?

Charles Utomi, the president of a campus fellowship in Delta State University (DELSU) said Christians have defiled the very essence of Christmas through many unwholesome activities on the day which is supposed to be the day for the remembrance of Jesus Christ.

As to the day that Christmas is celebrated, some people have wondered why people are so particular about the date. Most Christians all over the world believe in the birth of Jesus Christ for the redemption of mankind from sin, the only obstacle being the wrong date that he is being celebrated.

It is therefore pertinent that we heed to the advice of John Parsons, who noted: “In the light of these uncertainties, it is perhaps advisable to take a humble atti-

By Philip Okorodudu

tude and confess our ignorance of the matter; the important thing, of course, is that our Lord was indeed born and ransomed us from our wages of sin.”

Philip, 500-Level Electrical, Electronics and Computer Engineering, DELSU

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

36

CAMPUS LIFE

NDLEA club gets excos From Samuel Afolabi OAU

M

EMBERS of the Drug Free Club, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), have inaugurated new executive. The ceremony, held on the campus, was attended by Dr Ibrahim Baba, head of Drug Demand Reduction, National Drug Law and Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), and Mr. Abdulai Musa, Deputy Commander, Ife Area Command of the antidrug agency.

The officials conducted the swearing-in of the new leaders.

Drug Free Club is a non-political and nonprofit students' organisation. The club partners with NDLEA in its campaign against drug abuse, misuse, addiction, trafficking, sales and production of fake drugs. The club is also affiliated with National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC).

The inauguration brought the club's week to an end. The Deputy Director of OAU Teaching Hospital, T.O Ogundipe, delivered a lecture titled Drug abuse and national development: The Nigerian experience.

Dr Baba applauded the outgoing administration of the club for its efforts to reduce drug abuse incidence among the secondary school pupils within and outside IleIfe. He also encouraged the new set of leaders to continue the good works.

Mobolaji Oluseesin, 400-Level Medical Rehabilitation, is the new president of the club. Others members included Folashade Olaoniye, 300-Level Law, Vice President, Samuel Afolabi, 300-Level Political Science, Vice President II, Achor Kitua, 100-Level Pharmacy, Treasurer, and Abioye Adeola, 400-Level Dentistry, Welfare Secretary.

• Ogundipe (left), Dr Baba (middle) and Musa during the inauguration ceremony

A non-governmental organisation (NGO), Emblem of Love, feted motherless children from three orphanage homes at the University of Benin (UNIBEN). GILBERT ALASA (400-Level Foreign Languages) writes.

Reaching out to the motherless

T

HEY strolled into the All Saints Chapel, Ugbowo Campus of the University of Benin (UNIBEN) radiating

On and Off Campus By Solomon Izekor 08061522600

joy. Dressed in lemon green T-shirts, their faces beamed with smiles as they pranced around in the manner of children.

But there was something missing in them. They are in search of acceptance, compassion and identity. They are kids from some orphanage homes brought to• gether last week by Emblem of Love, a non-governmental organisation (NGO), dedicated to promoting the cause of orphans and the displaced.

President of the group Miss Itohan Osemwengie described the forum as a platform to reach out to vulnerable children to help them discover their God-given talents.

She said: “This season, Emblem of Love is providing a platform for these children to tell their stories and showcase their latent talent to the glory of God.” The event, tagged “A story never told”, gave an insight into the causes of rising crime rate, insecurity, child labour and trafficking, rape, prostitution and the erosion of moral values in the society, today.

Miss Itohan added: “Our desire is to unravel these wrongs and proffer solutions through uprightness and responsibility.”

Speaking through a representative, wife of the UNIBEN Vice-Chancellor Mrs A.O. Oshodin, admonished the young ones to abstain from active sexual life until they are married bec ause of the adverse effects such practice has left in the society. '”Sex was originally designed by God for marriage. As young people, you must restrain yourselves from it and be disciplined enough to zip-up.”

Orphanages represented at the event were Compassion Caring Home, Rema Orphanage and Rehabilitation Center, and Cornerstone of Hope Foundation. The

Our desire is to unravel these wrongs and proffer solutions through uprightness and responsibility seemingly excited children rendered dance and songs to the delight of guests. Other dance groups were also on hand to thrill the audience with impressive stunts.

The hall shook with laughter as a comedian, Efex, dished out rib-cracking jokes.

The children were not left out in the fun as his jokes were mainly on nursery rhymes.

The compeer, MC Casino, a comedian and former Vice President of UNIBEN Students Union Government (SUG), also held the audience spellbound at regular intervals with his jokes.

One of the children, Otega Irikefo, a pupil of Edokpolor Grammar School, Benin City, lauded the initiative and urged individuals and corporate bodies to rise up to the occasion by showing love and helping other vulnerable children in our communities.

“I feel very happy today because I feel appreciated and loved by the crowd that gathered here today. We need more people to step into the fray and show love and care to the unloved,” the kid told CAMPUSLIFE.

Corps members’ cultural day •Continued from page 34

There was a drama presentation by Platoon 3 members. The play titled Life after camp focused on the kind of life most Corps members live after the orientation exercise. It was observed that some Corps members posted to Abuja facilitated their postings without having any relatives in the Federal Capital Territory. After the orientation exercise, they would be stranded, a situation that always force female among them to seek shelter in strangers' house.

Some of them embrace prostitution to eke out living. The drama also showed the repercussion of the actions.

A Corps member, Princewill Agbara, told

CAMPUSLIFE that he hoped the drama would change the thinking of desperate youths wanting to serve in Abuja.

The highpoint of the ceremony, which lasted till the evening, was the camp-fire night. Corps members danced round the fire in jubilation.

At the end of the occasion, the platoons that won prizes were called up for recognition. Ekpunobi said the cultural day was the best so far. "I can see some boys among you even dressed like ladies, whom nobody noticed till after the occasion. May God bless you throughout your service year and let this joy and happiness I see today never stop in your lives," he charged.

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

37

EDUCATION

Don cautions against deregulation of education I S the time ripe for deregulation of education, especially at the tertiary level? No, says Prof Tunde Samuel of the Lagos State University (LASU) Delivering the 49th LASU inaugural lecture titled: Total Deregulation: The Inevitable Bitter-Pill or Partial Deregulation, A Policy Heresy-Which Option for Public Tertiary Education In Nigeria? Samuel said deregulation would affect the welfare function of education.

He said: “Total deregulation is inevitable but not now if tertiary education is to fulfil its social welfare function. My position is reinforced by the brutal fact that with poor per capita of less than two dollars per day, majority of Nigerians cannot have access to tertiary education even at the current cost.”

Samuel said owners of tertiary institutions, especially government, are faced with options of whether they should accept this social welfare role and survive or embrace policy heresy and har-

By Medinat Kanabe

vest eventual collapse.

Samuel, who served as a special adviser on education during Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s tenure as Lagos State governor, further said deregulation jeopardizes the right of the Nigerian child to acquire tertiary education. “it is profit oriented; quality of education may be sacrificed because of the commercialization mantra; it will further reduce access to higher education because of the low GNP and per capital; it will have a negative effect on the social welfare index by widening the social gap between the low and high income earners and that quality of education may lay in jeopardy because some of the private universities are glorified secondary schools with low quality of lecturers and administrators,” he said.

However, if Nigeria is to temporarily continue with partial deregulation, the lecturer said the country in general and Lagos State in particular must be on the path of fiscal reality.

“Therefore if Private Universities now charge an average of between N700, 000 to N1.5m, it is thus recommended that public tertiary institution charge a lower limit of 391, 000 and a upper limit of 500, 000 to keep tertiary education alive.”

He suggested a paradigm shift from tertiary to technical and vocational education because return on investment in tertiary education is low, resulting in massive joblessness in the economy.

Tunde also underscored the need for managers of the institutions and governing council members to make judicious use of the scarce resources of the institutions.

“A situation whereby such members ask for first class ticket and millions of naira while on

FUNAAB FILE Commissioner praises students

•Prof Samuel

leave is morally untenable when such institutions cannot pay salaries and provide running costs regularly,” he said.

He however lamented that Nigeria has not invested enough into educating her young people to reap remarkable economic and social returns in future years.

Fed Govt invests N3b in varsity From Muhammad Bashir, Lokoja

M

INISTER of Education, Prof Rukayyat Ahmed Rufa’i, said the Federal Government has so far released N3.5 billion for the take off of the Federal University Lokoja (FUL).

The minister made this known in Lokoja during the maiden matriculation of the university last week.

According to her, the bill legalising the nine universities established by the Federal government last year, have been signed into law while an approval has also been given for the physical master plan of the FUL. She said 2,391 students have sworn matriculation oaths in eight of the nine universities spread across the six geo-political zones.

Prof Rufa’i attributed the successful take-off of the universities to President Goodluck Jonathan, whose transformation agenda is hinged on quality tertiary education.

She stressed further that the present administration is determined to provide quality education in the country.

Also speaking, the Kogi State Deputy Governor, Mr Yomi Awoniyi, urged the new university to complement the rich human capital of the state as government intends to use the new institution as a research centre for the transformation and development of the state.

Awoniyi, who represented Governor Idris Wada, said the state is serious about restructuring in the education sector.

The architect noted that the restructuring was occasioned by years of neglect during which ghost teachers and schools flourished.

In his welcome remarks, ViceChancellor FUL, Prof Abdulmumuni Hassan Rafindadi, said the institution will strive against examination malpractice as well as acts related to cultism or other social vices.

Delivering a matriculation lecture titled State of the education in Nigeria todays, Dr George Kwanashi, noted the flaws in the nation’s educational system, and called for a change in mindset.

He listed policy consistency and improved infrastructural facilities, improved teaching and learning materials as well as professionalism as panacea to improved learning in the university educational system.

FUL, which was established along with eight other universities in 2011, matriculated 443 students into three faculties.

THE Ogun State Police Commissioner, Mr Ikemefuna Okoye, has passed a vote of confidence on students of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), saying: “They are the only students in Ogun State that do not give us problem”.

Okoye said this penultimate Wednesday during the National Association of Agricultural Students (NAAS) Orientation Programme, held at the Julius Amioba Okojie Lecture Theatre 3 of the university.

Represented by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the CP said FUNAAB has a very good name and credibility.

According to him, “FUNAAB is the only University in Ogun State and even Southwest where Cultism is at the lowest ebb.”

He, therefore, called on other leadership of Higher Institutions in the State to visit FUNAAB and emulate her security system.

He, however, warned new students against polluting FUNAAB by joining cult groups, while disparaging the activities of unscrupulous students, who engage in internet fraud, popularly known as ‘Yahoo Yahoo’, adding that it is a criminal offence punishable by law.

20th Xmas Carol holds THE Chapel of Grace, FUNAAB, held its 20th Annual Christmas Carol Wednesday last week.

The colourful programme’s theme was, “He came to set the captives free.”

ACE FILE Choirs dazzle at carol •From left: Dr Ndueso, Dr Oloyede, Prof Atayero, Dr Oranusi – the four academics promoted

Covenant varsity promotes four profs

T

HE Board of Regents of Covenant University (CU), Ota, has approved the promotion of four senior faculties to the professorial cadre.

They are Prof Aderemi Aaron-Anthony Atayero, Dr John Samuel Ndueso, Dr Samuel Adesiyan Oloyede and Dr. Solomon Uche Oranusi.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof Charles Korede Ayo, announced this at the Appointment and Promotion Committee (A and PC) meeting Tuesday, last week.

He said their promotions were ratified by the Board after professorial assessments by external assessors which validated the earlier prima facie cases established by the committee.

Atayero, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), is a pioneer staff of the university. He

joined the Department of Electrical and Information Engineering in 2002 as Lecturer II and rose Acting Head of the department, and a Lead Researcher, EIE Biometrics Research Cluster.

Atayero is a professor of Communication Engineering.

Samuel is the Head of Department of Electrical and Information Engineering. He joined the university on October 3, 2006. He is promoted to Associate Professor of Computer Engineering.

Also promoted as Associate professor of Estate Management, Oloyede joined CU on November 1, 2006.

Oloyede who was the immediate past Head of Department of Estate Management, is currently the Deputy Dean School of Environmental Sciences.

Oranusi joined on September 29, 2008. Until his promotion, he was a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Biological Sciences. He is now an Associate Professor of Microbiology.

Adegboyega varsity matriculates 100 students

A

TOTAL of 100 students have taken the matriculation oath of the Samuel Adegboyega University located in Ogwa, Edo State for the 2012/2013 academic session.

The figure comprises 65 undergraduate and 35 Diploma students.

Administering the matriculation oath, the Acting Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof A.O. Adeola said the university has moved from 117th rankings in the Nigeria Universities Commission (NUC) webometrics rankings of Nigerian universities to 90th position.

Adeola said the university was fast gaining global recognition

From Osagie Otabor, Benin

through the hosting of an international conference on Esan history which attracted participants from across the world.

He also said the university has inaugurated the Centre for Research and Development of Esan land (CERDEL) to preserve and document history of Esanland.

To give its graduates an edge, Adeola said students would get IT training and take professional examinations during their programmes.

He said: “it is pertinent to mention here that the products of Samuel Adegboyega University

would graduate with three certificates, these include the normal degree as awarded by all universities but with a difference. All graduates will be computer literate. In addition to this, our students will be exposed to professional training examinations such as ICAN, CIIN, ACIB, ORAC LE etc.

“The vision is to ensure that all our graduates are professionally qualified at the point of graduation or soon after. The third certificate is vocational. Each of our students would choose a vacation out of a variety out which the university would train in theory and practice.”

CHOIRS from the Adeyemi College of Education (ACE), Ondo, Department of Music, the Demonstration Secondary School, and churches on campus rendered melodious songs at the carol organised by the college to herald the Yuletide season last Tuesday.

The carol held at the New Lecture Theatre 2 was graced by members of College management led by the Provost, Prof Adeyemi Idowu accompanied by his wife, Dr Adetoun Idowu, Deputy Provost, Dr Olufemi Olajuyigbe, Registrar, Mr. Felix Aderinboye, and the College Librarian, Dr. Rotimi Egunjobi.

In a short exhortation, the Provost of the Cathedral of Saint Stephens Anglican Church, Rt. Venerable S. A.Oni urged all to remember the reason for the season.

He said Christ came into the world to save the lost, and urged all to be born again so as not to receive eternal condemnation at the end of time.

Provost praises Coop Society THE ACE Provost, Prof Idowu has praised the leadership of the Cooperative Multipurpose Society Limited as it celebrates its 25th anniversary.

Speaking when the leaders visited him, Idowu said the society has enjoyed responsible and visionary leadership in the past which he noted was responsible for its monumental achievements.

He also praised the smooth transition of the leadership over the years.

The Provost thanked the Society for conferring on him the award of “Most Outstanding Member of the Community.”

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

38

EDUCATION ‘XMAS CAROLS, PARTIES, FUNFAIR

Joy at Rivers schools’ carol

I

•The school choir singing carols

T was a colourful day at the State Primary School II, Orogbum in Port Harcourt, venue of the 2012 Christmas Carol organised by the Rivers State Ministry of Education penultimate week.

Pupils and teachers were dressed in Christmas attires for the programme which featured lessons, carols by the pupils, ballet display by the State Orchestra Chamber and gifts exchange.

The lessons were read by a Primary One pupil, Brianyan Germany (Gen 3:8-15), the Rivers State Commissioner for Education, Dame Alice Lawrence-Nemi (John 1: 1-14), and the Permanent Secretary Rivers State Ministry of Education Dr. Richard Ofuru (Matt 2:1-12), among others.

Speaking on the significance of the carol service which she initiated last year, Mrs Lawrence-Nemi said it was a time for total re-dedication to God. Thanking God for a successful year, she also appreciated the teachers for their commitment and dedication, and other stakeholders for their support. She urged them to brace up for the challenges ahead so the ministry would gain more ground.

She warned teachers against collecting any fee from the pupils in public schools as such is prohibited.

Addressing the pupils, Mrs

Lawrence-Nemi charged them to make good use of the facilities provided them and take their studies seriously to justify the government’s investment in them.

She said that the ministry has lined up many programmes like the quiz, debate and essay competitions to improve them academically.

In his address, the Permanent Secretary, Dr Ofuru thanked the Almighty for his mercies in 2012 and wished for a better year in 2013.

He also praised the Commissioner for her passion in driving Governor Rotimi Amaechi’s vision for the education sector. He said the Ministry would not have achieved all they did without her commitment.

Head Teacher of the school Mrs Evelyn Wornu, wrapped up the programme by thanking the government for reviving education in Rivers State.

“Governor Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi has given a new lease of life to the education sector of the state. He has made teaching very easy for the teachers because of the facilities provided in schools. In my 32 years as a teacher I have not seen such transformation in the education sector. I pray for God’s protection upon the governor,” she said.

Pupils urged to fulfil purpose

T •Pupils of The Lagoon School, Lekki, during their Christmas concert

HE need for pupils to fulfil their purpose was stressed during the 2012 annual carol service for schools organised by the Lagos State Ministry of Education at the Chapel of Christ the Light, Alausa, Ikeja.

The event tagged “Festival of Christmas carol and nine lessons” was to remind the pupil of their purpose in life amid joy and celebration of the season.

In his sermon, Rev. Canon J.O Tanimonu presiding chaplain of the church, told the pupils to be purposeful in life as Jesus was born for a purpose and also be free from sin while celebrating Christmas.

“Christ was born for the purpose of redeeming mankind from sin.

You also should know your reason here on earth and be redeemed from sin for you to be at peace with God while celebrating Christmas,” he said.

The cleric also advised them not to allow distractions of any sorts

By Jane Chijioke

derail their education because God has ordained a purpose for their being in school which must be accomplished.

“Be zealous, determined, have passion to follow up your destiny, for a purposeful life lives to regret nothing. Also live an exemplary life that glorifies God,” he added.

In the spirit of Christmas, Rev. Tanimonu counseled the pupils to reach out to the less privileged. Imbibe the attitude of giving and also have the less privileged at heart” Pupils from public secondary schools in the six education districts sang various carols. Caleb International College, a private school also participated in the carol.

Lessons were read by distinguished personalities who graced the event including the Lagos State Education Commissioner, Mrs Olayinka Oladunjoye, Mr. Adesegun Ogunlewe, Lagos State Head of Service, clergy among others.

Pampers gives to orphans, old people

I •The Orchestra of Mind Builders School, Ikeja, performing during the school’s Christmas concert.

•Mrs Ukwu and the pupils presenting the items to Pastor Anyanwu

N the spirit of the season, pupils and teachers of Pampers Private School, Alaka, Lagos made Christmas worthwhile for orphaned children and senior citizens when they visited some orhanages and old peoples homes.

They visited the Holy Family Home for the Elderly, Regina Mundi Catholic Church in Mushin, and the Nigerian Red Cross Society Motherless and Abandoned Babies Home, Makoko, Yaba. They donated foodstuffs, diapers, indomie, sugar, toiletries, biscuits and provisions during the visit.

At the home for the elderly, the pupils sang for the old men and women.

Pastor Charles Anyanwu, a worker in the home, said the home was established in 1982 by the church. He said families of the inmates usually abandoned them after registration, leaving the home with the responsibility of feeding, clothing, and meeting their medical needs.

He praised the efforts of foundations, wealthy individuals, corporate bodies and other religious organisations that have supported the home in the past, and praised the pupils for their visit.

By Aminat Popoola

At the Nigerian Red Cross Society Motherless and Abandoned Babies Home the pupils noted that the children were well cared for and carried out their activities without a care in the world. Mrs Juliana Obanife, the general matron of the home received the donations and in return gave a token to the pupils.

The pupils met an undergraduate of the Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo who was on field work to the home that day. She taught the little ones poems, songs and rhymes.

She said of her interaction with them: “These children need love and care and there is nothing in this world that makes me happy than making sure they get it. They act just like the average pupil, especially when they are given the necessary training.”

Mrs Ngozi Ukwu a teacher, and chairman of the school’s Christmas Committee, who led the pupils on the charity visit said the programme is done annually to give care and attention to the needy and the less privileged and expose the pupils to realities of life and the need to help others, especially the needy.

39

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

EDUCATION ‘XMAS CAROLS, PARTIES, FUNFAIR

Ministry celebrates hard work

A

FTER a busy year in the public education sector of Lagos State, principals, directors, and other senior officers joined the Education Commissioner, Mrs Olayinka Oladunjoye, and the tutor-generals/permanent secretaries of the six education districts to unwind at the Grandeur Hall, Oregun, last Wednesday.

The tastefully decorated hall was filled with the principals and other administrative officials, who came from the over 600 public secondary schools owned by the state government. They were treated to good food, choice drinks and music from a band that moved many to the dance floor.

However, the event was not just about merrymaking as hard working ones among the gaily-attired senior civil servants were recognised with awards by the commissioner.

Mrs Oladunjoye said the year had been good for the state as the performance of public school candidates registered for the May/June 2012 West African Senior School Certificate Examinations (WASSCE) SS3 pupils improved from 17 per cent to more than 30.

She thanked the principals, TG/ PS and directors for their roles and urged them to work even harder.

“We are here to appreciate our principals and directors who have contributed to the success stories recorded in 2012. This, we believe will spur them to greater heights and motivate others to work hard.

Not that we have got to where we are going to but compared with the past, we have improved. I have told them that the reward for hard work is more work,” she said.

In 2013, the Commissioner said the Lagos State Ministry of Education will continuing implementing reforms aimed at improving per-

By Kofoworola Belo-Osagie

formance, including screening pupils transiting from Primary Six to JSS1; ensuring that only those pupils with credit passes in English and Mathematics, and make 50 per cent cumulatively in six subjects are promoted internally; ensuring parents participate in their wards’ schools, and the like.

In an interview, one of the awardees, Mr Olatunji Adefuye, Director of Social Mobilisation at the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (LSUBEB) told The Nation that he worked hard not to be rewarded but to satisfy God. “Personally I believe my service is not unto man but God. I do the work to satisfy my conscience and God. I have three principles – commitment, consistency, and collaborations,” he said.

Adefuye also commended the government for improving public schools.

“There are good changes in the education sector from primary to secondary levels. Our primary school pupils are now more serious in their studies because they have to write examinations to get into secondary school. Teachers are also working harder because they get more support and resources to do the work,” he said.

Another recipient, Mr Laolu Oguntuyi, a Director at the Lagos State Technical and Vocational Education Board (LASTVEB) said in the year under review, the technical colleges benefited immensely from the Eko Project, which provided grants used to equip the colleges.

“If you look at the WAEC and NECO results, there has been a great improvement thanks to the Eko Project. Eko Project also improved acquisition of skills in the technical colleges,” he said.

•Pupils waiting for their turn on the Bouncing Castle

Mind Builders School fetes pupils

P

ARENTS had a hard time convincing their wards to go

home after a fun-filled day at the Police College, Ikeja, venue of the Mind Builders School Xmas Fun fair last week.

The section of the Police College parade ground used by the school was converted into an amusement park with bouncing castle, train ride, climbing board and other fun props for activities, such as mock wrestling, art and craft, and other games.

There was also a Father Christmas grotto, where the pupils from the two branches of the school in the Central Business District, Agindingbi and Omole, Ikeja, visited and were rewarded with gifts.

Mr Olatunde Opeyemi, Administrator of the School said the school

By Kofoworola Belo-Osagie

relocated to Police College to give the pupils room to play to their hearts’ content.

“At Mind Builders, we are unique. We want to be pacesetters.

This is unlike what we used to have in the past. In the small space in school, the children were restricted.

Now, they can express themselves.

We have a lot of play items so the children can play,” he said.

Daniel Afolabi, a Primary Five pupil was glad about the props, especially the one for wrestling matches, which he said he won repeatedly.

“It was fun. I was champion o f the wrestling matches. I wrestled with many pupils and won,” he said.

Attesting to the fun the pupils had, Mr Adedayo Akadiri, PTA Chairman of the school, com-

mended its authorities for putting up the programme.

“It has been wonderful. The children really enjoyed themselves. I have not seen anyone of them who wants to go home,” he said.

However, as they embark on the three-week Christmas holidays, Primary Supervisor, Mrs Doreen Aloma counseled the pupils to share and read their books.

“My advice for the children is to take time to be good and learn to share because we have been teaching about sharing. Christmas is all about sharing. But they have to remember their books. That is why we gave each of them a story book in their Christmas pack so they have books to read,” she said.

“As early as 8am, the children were here. We wanted our Christmas party to be different from what it.

Proprietress seeks school, parents partnership

T

•Reverend Rosemary flanked by pupils of Holy Child at the funfair

I

Holy Child hosts pupils, parents, friends

T was a day of fun for pupils and parents when the Holy Child College, Ikoyi, Lagos, held its funfair penultimate week.

The funfair had pupils from visiting schools, including King’s College, Lagos, Queen’s College, Yaba, and St Gregory’s College, Obalende, in attendance.

Speaking to The Nation, the school’s Administrator, Reverend Ify Rosemary Atuebu, said the day was set aside for pupils to relax and have fun with their families and friends.

“We don’t need to study all the

By Medinat Kanabe

time. Sometimes, we need to have fun and this is a typical day the Holy Child community comes together to have fun.”

Speaking about the poor performances in the West Africa Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (WASSCE) and National Examination Council (NECO), Revd Atuebu condemned teachers who show little or no commitment to their job because of their belief that the remuneration is poor. She also frowned at the recruitment of quacks, noting: “You must have in-

terest in what you do to excel,” She said Education For All by 2015 is achievable if those in charge show more seriousness.

The assistant social prefect and organiser of the funfair, Idowu Josephine, said despite the stress of studying, they chose the day to loosen up.

“Let everyone experience fun because all work and no play make Jack a dull boy.”

Many organisations erected tents to advertise their products, which were patronized by the pupils and their parents.

HE Director of Sartoif Montessori School, Mrs. Toyin Daramolekun, has called for a strategic partnership between the school and parents in training the children to become responsible leaders.

Mrs Daramola said this at the Christmas Concert organised by the school last week at the school’s field in Lafenwa, Ogun State.

The carol which featured orchestra, song dramatisation, and French presentation drew together friends, parents, clerics, and educationists.

She said preparing today’s children for global relevance could only be effectively carried out through a strategy and workable partnership between the government, parents and teachers.

She said: “We want to create a healthy environment in which the best and brightest are produced for the world and to lay a solid foundation for excellence in conscience and in competence can only be effective with the firm support of parents.”

By Adeola Ogunlade

She attributed the growing spate of failure among pupils in Nigeria to the negligence of the parents in monitoring their wards school work which has continued to undermine the efforts of the teachers.

“Parents have a divine and moral responsibility in the building of the spiritual, mental, educational and moral development of their children which must be done and not delegated to teachers or nannies in the home” she said.

In an interview, a mother who won the best parent award, Mrs Folusho Ogunshola praised the school for being effective in training its pupils.

She added that she devotes time to monitor her wards.

“In spite of my busy schedule, everyday I make effort in monitoring my children school activities. Parents must make sacrifices in training their children and not be carried away by the search for material wealth at expense of the future of their children.”

‘Parents have a divine and moral responsibility in the building of the spiritual, mental, educational and moral development of their children which must be done and not delegated to teachers or nannies in the home’

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

40

EDUCATION

Oko youths pledge support to poly

T

HE youths of Oko in Orumba North Local Government of Anambra, have pledged support to the Federal Polytechnic, Oko. The pledge came about nine months after a cold battle between the host community and the institution over a clash between students and masquerade groups.

The newly-elected youth leadership of the community led by Duke Ezeonwuka, a lawyer, said the new crop of leaders are men of integrity.

He added that they have resolved to work with the management of the polytechnic unlike in the past.

Ezeonwuka praised the Rector, Prof. Godwin Onu, for his developmental strides in the polytechnic, unrivalled since inception, and urged him not to relent in his efforts to transform it into a worldclass institution

A

•As alumni donate books Responding, Onu thanked the youths for the show of solidarity.

He added that strife and conflict do not attract development.

"What we need here is peace to complete our developmental plans of making the polytechnic one of the best in the world," he said.

Onu noted that his major vision is to transform the institution into a polytechnic university that will in addition to National and Higher National Diplomas, award Bachelor of Technology degrees.

Other members of the group that visited with Ezeonwuka were Toochukwu Ezeokoli, Deputy Youth leader, Ezindu Okoli, Secretary, Ezemenike Nnaemeka the Assistant Secretary among others.

Meanwhile, the United Statesbased branch of the polytechnic's

alumni association has donated books and other educational equipment worth over N5 million to the institution.

Presenting the books to principal officers of the institution, the President of the association, Comrade Baron Lugard said the gesture was to complement Onu's transformation efforts.

Lugard said the body was impressed by the transformation agenda of the present management.

Onu said he was humbled by such gesture of patriotism by the old students.

In line with his vision to transform Okopoly into a first class institution, Onu said that it has signed Memoranda of Understanding with some foreign universities on training, exchange programmes

Alumni group praises VC

NAMBRA State University Alumni Association has praised the Vice Chancellor, Prof Fidelis Okafor, and his team for uplifting the university.

Rising from its mini-convention last week, the association appealed to members to rally round the vicechancellor to continue his immense development of infrastructure and human capacity building for the benefit of students.

In a statement signed by the National President, Anaetoo Chima and Secretary Amanchukwu Emeka, the alumni warned detractors to allow the VC and his team actualise their dream for the university.

The statement reads in part: “Evaluating the performance of the VC , the Alumni Association on its findings discovered the establishments of new departments for ca-

From Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, Nnewi

pacity building , beautification of the University environment, eradication of cultism, sponsorship of academic and non-academic staff to local and international programme, encouragement of students unionism and attraction of TET Fund to mention but a few.

“We are indeed happy with what Professor Okafor is doing in our great institution and therefore wish to state that the choice of the man who is indeed a ‘daddy’ to all, an erudite professor who we believe has not only come to save the fallen standard of education in the state-owned university vis-a-vis the decaying infrastructures of the school but also to consolidate on the good path he toed during his stay in Nwafor Orizu college of

Education, Nsugbe. We are not surprised by his achievements so far since we all know him as an ‘agent of change’ from his days as Provost of Nwafor Orizu college of Education Nsugbe.

“It is also important we warn through this medium that we won’t condone any attempt by the detractors, anti-progressive element within and outside the school who never wished the institution well from the days of past administrations and pretend to be working for the interest of the institution.

And therefore , we urge all the entire staff of the institution who have the good interest of the school at heart like the Vice Chancellor , to cooperate with the VC and his team of management in their readiness towards re-building the Anambra state University in all spheres of development.”

•Fowler (middle) flanked by finalists in the JSS category.

Revenue service to present scholarship grants in Jan

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HE Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) will be rewarding six pupils with scholarship grants for their performance in its essay competition for secondary schools.

However, the 20 pupils in the final will have to wait until the Lagos State Tax Payers Forum in January to know who among them will win the prizes.

They faced a panel of judges made up of consultants from the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN) to orally defend their essays which were shortlisted among thousands of entries received from public and private secondary schools in the six education

By Kofoworola Belo-Osagie

districts of Lagos State.

The eight finalists in the junior secondary category wrote on: “Payment of tax is your duty, your civic responsibility and the law”, or “Well equipped schools, recreational centres, good hospitals, good roads, efficient transportation etc. Tax payments make them possible;” while the 12 in the senior secondary category wrote on: “Lagos State will continue to be a centre of excellence if all taxable adults pay their taxes promptly and correctly.”

Executive Chairman of LIRS Mr Tunde Fowler said the quality of essays received for the fifth edition of the competition was higher, re-

sulting in more pupils being invited for the oral defence, one of whom was a visually-impaired pupil from the Federal Government College, Ijanikin.

In selecting the winner, he said the judges would consider how the pupils link key words to taxation in their presentation (20 marks), their discussion (30), grammar (20), coherence (15), and confidence (15).

“The oral interview will be marked and based on the scores and essays the top three in each category will emerge. We have consultants and people from CITN who will take part in the marking.

It is a very objective and fair essay competition,” he said.

EDUTALK

with

Agenda for 2013

I

HE year ending in a few days has been quite eventful in the education sector.

Now that January 2013 is close by, we easily remember that January this year was quite tough. The New Year subsidy removal strike paralysed activities in all sectors. There was no work, no business, and Kofoworola no school. When school resumed, it was a struggle for parents to cope with increased Kofosagie@yahoo.com costs.

08054503077 (SMS only) Some of the events that occurred this year still have implication for the future. We need to learn from them to ensure that the education sector runs better in the New Year.

This year also had its fair share of strikes by unions in primary, secondary and tertiary institutions; riots by students, far-reaching policy statements, and more than its fair share of deaths, which unfortunately were not caused by natural disasters but man’s inhumanity to man.

The killings of 33 students at the Federal Polytechnic, Mubi, and four at the University of Lagos (UNILAG) perhaps topped the table of events that drew attention nationwide. Everyone was united in condemning the thoughtless murders of the students and we hope that the security agencies investigating the cases will bring the perpetrators to justice.

It is when justice is served we can be confident that those who think of carrying out such dastardly acts in future would know they cannot escape punishment.

The renaming of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) as the Moshood Abiola University of Lagos (MAULAG) ranked second on the table, following overt protests by students, workers, alumni and the institution’s parents’ forum. The case is still in court and we look forward to an amicable resolution to the conflict next year. We look forward to a resolution in the best interest of the institution.

Not much outcry followed the release of the May/June 2012 West African Senior School Certificate Examinations results like in previous years. May be this was because there was an eight per cent improvement in performance. The percentage of candidates that made credits in five subjects including English Language and Mathematics was 38.81. In 2011, 30.91 reached the benchmark, while 23.71 made it in 2010.

States like Lagos, Oyo, and Edo recorded improved performance because their governments made efforts to improve facilities in schools and invested in the training of teachers.

However, we all know that 38.81 per cent is not a pass mark. It means that majority did not perform well enough. According to our grading system, any candidate that scores below 40 fails that course. At the tertiary level, the student is made to repeat the subject. So, while many states may be celebrating their improved performance, they should put in much more effort to bring the performance of the average secondary school pupil up to standard.

The report submitted by the committee on Needs Assessment of Nigerian Public Universities also generated some interest. It was shocking to learn that only 43 per cent of lecturers in our institutions have the requisite teaching qualification of PhD, and many of them are recycled by the universities. To make matters worse, the committee discovered that though the teacher/student ratio is as high as1:100 in some universities, many of them are not even employed full time. I think the most scandalous finding of the committee was that while there are 37,504 members of academic staff employed on full and parttime basis, there are 77,511 full-time non-academic staff employed by all the universities. This is more than twice the number of academics.

Like the Committee noted in its recommendations, the Federal Government needs to review the lopsidedness in employment to ensure that only relevant non-academic workers who would be fully-engaged should be employed by our tertiary institutions.

Belo-Osagie

‘Like the Committee noted in its recommendations, the Federal Government needs to review the lopsidedness in employment to ensure that only relevant non-academic workers who would be fully-engaged should be employed by our tertiary institutions’

From my Inbox Re: Managing teannage pregnancy (Thursday, December 20) Mrs kofo, thanks for your write up. I am very sure this will educate the girls more about teenage pregnancy. And my advice to parents, especially mothers, is to educate their girls more about teenage pregnancy and allow them to watch movies that have to do with it so they will know the repercussion of it. I will look forward to read your next write up. Thanks.

Ogunnubi Abiodun, Caleb University, Imota, Lagos State.

What a great lesson and thought you have delivered. Know that feelings are unresisted. Many teenagers don’t like keeping relationships without sex. They feel a guy is impotent. What do you think of that? 08057236—.

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

42

MONEY LINK FirstBank supports Digital Africa confab

SMEs funding drives leasing assets to N623b

L

EASING assets have hit N623 billion on rising commitment by leasing firms to provide loans for Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs), the Chairman of Equipment Leasing Association of Nigeria (ELAN), Mr. Kahinde Lawanson, has said.

He spoke at a one-day business forum on the “implications of current tax regime on equipment leasing business in Nigeria”.

In a report obtained by The Nation, Lawanson said the subsector has continued to grow despite difficulties being faced by operators in acquisition of productive assets.

He stated that the leasing industry

Stories by Collins Nweze

was engaged in providing access to finance to SMEs, increasing domestic capital base, financial product innovation and development of secondary market.

He, however, noted that the continuous growth and development of the industry depend on strong infrastructure including, conducive tax and legal frameworks which are part of the major pillars that drive the industry.

He said that the association had over the years, focused on achieving favourable tax regime and appropriate leasing law for the in-

dustry. ELAN boss lamented that the present regulatory environment was not supportive enough to drive and sustain development in the Nigerian leasing industry.

ELAN, the umbrella body for lessors, has been advised to work with the federal Inland Revenue service (FIRS) and other stakeholders to ensure a better tax regime for the industry.

He said that tax issues remain significantly unresolved because of constraints of the tax laws hence the need for the FIRS to continue its proactive initiative by exercising discretionary powers within the current laws to review and improve on the latest circular issued in 2010.

The forum noted that leasing as a significant financing alternative, facilitates acquisition of capital assets, foster economic growth, creates employment and enhances tax revenues. Globally, taxation is one of the pillars that is being utilised to drive growth and development in the industry.

However, the present tax regime in Nigeria is not supportive enough to drive and sustain development of leasing, essentially on issues relating to value Added Tax, Withholding Tax, and Capital Allowances. The forum regretted that leasing appears to be regarded as an industry with heavy margins and more lucrative than loans and advances for tax consideration.

T

cent to a 16- month low of 112.84 per euro, before retracing to 112.73.

Standard & Poor’s 500 Index futures expiring in March rose to 1,422.4. Oil rose in New York before a December 28 government report that, according to a Bloomberg survey, will show United States stockpiles declined last week to the lowest in 10 weeks. Crude climbed to $89.19 a barrel, trimming this year’s drop to 9.8 per cent.

Abe said he will consider revising the law governing the Bank of Japan if the central bank fails to raise its inflation target to two per cent from one per cent at its January meeting.

The new premier struck an agreement with his coalition allies in the New Komeito Party on a policy package for “bold monetary easing.” Board members of the central bank pledged to continue with “powerful easing,” according to the minutes, released yesterday.

S&P, Moody’s cut bond Dollar advances against Yen ratings

S

TANDARD & Poor’s and Moody’s Investors Service are cutting corporate debt ratings at the fastest pace since 2009 as a global economic slowdown and record borrowing erode credit quality.

Bloomberg report said the ratio of ratings downgrades to upgrades worldwide climbed to 1.85 this year from 1.23 in 2011, according to S&P data.

PSA Peugeot Citroen (UG), Europe’s second-largest carmaker, was cut three times by Moody’s since March to speculative grade.

Fort Worth, Texas-based RadioShack Corporation (RSH) was lowered four steps this year by S&P to seven levels below investment grade. Defaults rose to 80 issuers from 52 in 2011, according to S&P.

It said that Europe’s second recession in four years and slowing global economic growth are helping to push a measure of corporate debt to earnings to a three-year high.

“Companies from the neediest to the most creditworthy sold unprecedented amounts of debt at recordlow yields in 2012 as the Federal Reserve held interest rates at almost zero for a fourth year in an effort to boost the United States economy,” it said.

Companies from Singapore to San Francisco have sold $3.93 trillion of debt in 2012 to take advantage of yields that fell to 3.27 per cent last week, according to data compiled

by Bloomberg and the Bank of America Merrill Lynch Global Corporate & High Yield Index.

The securities returned 11.8 per cent this year through December 21, the most since the 20.5 per cent return in 2009, Bank of America Merrill Lynch index data show.

HE Japanese yen weakened to the lowest since April 2011 against the dollars amid expectations Japan’s new government will push for more cash infusions to bolster the economy. Oil and United States stock-index futures advanced.

The yen retreated 0.6 per cent to 85.31 per dollar and has fallen against all but nine currencies this year. Crude climbed 0.7 per cent and copper added 0.7 per cent. Standard & Poor’s 500 Index futures rose 0.2 per cent. Japanese stocks advanced to nine-month highs and bonds declined with the parliamentary approval of Shinzo Abe as the country’s new premier.

The yen weakened to as low as 85.48 per dollar, and was poised to complete a third monthly decline versus the greenback, its longest losing streak since August 2008. It slid against its 16 major counterparts, dropping as much as 1 per

FGN BONDS

DATA BANK

Tenor

Amount N

Rate %

M/Date

3-Year 5-Year 5-Year

35m 35m 35m

11.039 12.23 13.19

19-05-2014 18-05-2016 19-05-2016

WHOLESALE DUTCH AUCTION SYSTEM Amount Amount Offered ($) Demanded ($) 350m 150m 350m 138m 350m 113m

MANAGED FUNDS Initial Current Quotation Price Market N8250.00 5495.33 N1000.00 N552.20

NIDF NESF

Price Loss 2754.67 447.80

INTERBANK RATES 7.9-10% 10-11%

PRIMARY MARKET AUCTION (T-BILLS) Tenor 91-Day 182-Day 1-Year

Amount 30m 46.7m 50m

Rate % 10.96 9.62 12.34

Date 28-04-2012 “ 14-04-2012

GAINERS AS AT 24-12-12 SYMBOL

FO NPFMCRFBK RTBRISCOE JAPAULOIL TRANSCORP ZENITHANK NEIMETH PRESTIGE NEM ETI

O/PRICE

7.75 1.03 1.34 0.56 0.92 18.20 0.95 0.51 0.56 10.62

C/PRICE

8.13 1.08 1.39 0.58 0.95 18.60 0.97 0.52 0.57 10.80

NGN USD NGN GBP NGN EUR NIGERIA INTER BANK (S/N) (S/N) Bureau de Change (S/N) Parallel Market

Current Before

C u r r e n t CUV Start After %

147.6000 239.4810 212.4997

149.7100 244.0123 207.9023

150.7100 245.6422 209.2910

-2.11 -2.57 -1.51

149.7450

154.0000

154.3000

-3.04

152.0000

153.0000

155.5000

-2.30

153.0000

154.0000

156.0000

-1.96

O/PRICE 0.80 1.44 1.05 3.57 23.35 1.55 4.52 2.29 12.45 0.59

C/PRICE 0.76 1.37 1.00 3.40 22.25 1.48 4.38 2.23 12.22 0.58

CHANGE -5.00 -4.86 -4.76 -4.76 -4.71 -4.52 -3.10 -2.62 -1.85 -1.69

DISCOUNT WINDOW Feb. ’11

July ’11

July ’12

MPR

6.50%

6.50%

12%

Standing Lending Rate ,, Deposit Rate ,, Liquidity Ratio Cash Return Rate Inflation Rate

8.50% 4.50% 25.00% 1.00% 12.10%

8.50% 4.50% 25.00% 2.00% 12.10%

9.50% 5.50% 30.00% 2.00% 11.8%

Date 2-7-12 27-6-12 22-6-12

7 Days 30 Days 60 Days 150 Days

27-10-11 N6.5236tr 20,607.37

28-10-11 N6.617tr 20,903.16

Rate (Previous) 4 Mar, 2012 9.0417 9.6667 11.2917 12.1250

% Change -1.44% -1.44%

MEMORANDUM QUOTATIONS Offer Price

Bid Price

9.17 1.00 132.65 125.53 0.80 1.13 0.92 1,763.58 11.31 1.39 1.87 9,270.16 193.00 1.67

9.08 1.00 132.34 124.60 0.77 1.13 0.91 1,754.53 10.75 1.33 1.80 9,029.05 191.08 1.62

ARM AGGRESSIVE GROWTH KAKAWA GUARANTEED STANBIC IBTC GUARANTE AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUND LOTUS CAPITAL HALAL BGL SAPPHIRE FUND BGL NUBIAN FUND NIGERIA INTERNATIONAL DEB. PARAMOUNT EQUITY FUND CONTINENTAL UNIT TRUST CENTRE-POINT UNIT TRUST STANBIC IBTC NIG EQUITY THE DISCOVERY FUND FIDELITY NIGFUND • ARM AGGRESSIVE • KAKAWA GUARANTEED • STANBIC IBTC GUARANTE • AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUND

NIBOR Tenor

NSE CAP Index

Name

LOSERS AS AT 24-12-12

SYMBOL IKEJAHOTEL LIVESTOCK FIDSON JOHNHOLT GUARANTY MAYBAKER UBA FIDELITYBK OANDO AIICO

Exchange Rate (N) 155.2 155.8 155.7

CAPITAL MARKET INDEX Year Start Offer

CHANGE

4.90 4.85 3.73 3.57 3.26 2.20 2.11 1.96 1.79 1.69

Amount Sold ($) 150m 138m 113m

EXHANGE RATE 6-03-12 Currency

OBB Rate Call Rate

F

IRST Bank of Nigeria Plc is supporting Digital Africa Conference and Exhibition, a pan-African ICT event, slated for Abuja, next year.

Chief Executive Officer, Compumetrics Solutions Limited, Evans Woherem, who is the promoter of the conference said: “We are pleased that First Bank of Nigeria Plc has accepted our invitation to be the Official Banker of Digital Africa Conference & Exhibition 2013. Being the oldest Nigerian bank and one with strong global operations, we are delighted about this partnership”.

The bank, he said, is well-positioned to act as the revenue collection bank for delegates, sponsors and exhibitors from all over Nigeria, the rest of Africa and the rest of the world. He added that the orgaisers look forward to the participation of other leading private and public sector organisations for the pan-African digital conference.

In a statement, the organisers said that Digital Africa Conference and Exhibition is a three-day annual conference and exhibition for the continent’s information and communications technology sector. The programme targets sectors of the society that are major consumers of ICT such as government ministries and agencies, agriculture, education, health and national security organisations.

The aim of this conference is to promote a better integrated Africa, using modern ICT tools. The event is an important platform to network, share knowledge on the latest developments in the ICT world, do business, and sign deals. The conference program which comprises plenary and breakout sessions is complemented by a parallel exhibition of various ICT products, devices, services, solutions and innovations,” it said.

Rate (Currency) 6, Mar, 2012 10.17% 11.46% 11.96% 12.54%

Movement

OPEN BUY BACK

Bank P/Court

Previous 04 July, 2012

Current 07, Aug, 2012

8.5000 8.0833

8.5000 8.0833

Movement

43

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

EQUITIES NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 24-12-12

US stocks drop before budget talks

U

S stocks slumped for a third day as lawmakers prepared to resume budget talks after the Christmas holiday. The Japanese yen weakened amid speculation of the new government’s act to bolster the economy.

The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 0.6 per cent to 1,418.32 in New York. The yen retreated one per cent to 85.62 per dollar, declining against all of its 16 major counterparts. Oil jumped 2.6 per cent to $90.96 a barrel in New York after a report that the United Arab Emirates’ arrested terrorists planning on carrying out attacks in the region.

US lawmakers convene today for budget talks aimed at avoiding more than $600 billion in tax gains and spending cuts scheduled to take effect January 1. Shinzo Abe, whose Liberal Democratic Party won a landslide vic-

tory in the December 16 election, said yesterday that his government’s mission is to restore a strong economy.

“It’s a stalemate,” Scott Armiger, a money manager at Christiana Trust in Greenville, Delaware, said in a telephone interview.

Christiana Trust oversees $14 billion. “With the fiscal cliff, the questions are how bad will the deal be or will they just extend it and let the new Congress address it?”

Obama and House Speaker John Boehner have been unable to agree on tax-rate increases for top earners or cuts to entitlement programmes, complicating the chances of getting a package done. Before going on Christmas vacation, Obama urged leaders of both parties to put together an interim bill to keep taxes from rising on middleincome Americans as they work on a more comprehensive package.

On retail stocks, Coach Inc. sank five per cent, while Urban Outfitters Inc. (URBN) declined 3.2 per cent as consumer discretionary stocks fell.Cliffs Natural Resources Inc. (CLF) gained 2.4 per cent as raw-material stocks rallied.

The yen weakened to as low as 84.76 per dollar, and was poised to complete a third monthly decline versus the greenback, its longest losing streak since August 2008. It slid against its 16 major counterparts.

Oil climbed as much as 3.1 per cent in New York. UAE security authorities said members of the terrorist group had obtained equipment and materials to carry out their attacks, according to the country’s official news agency.

Saudi Arabia assisted in uncovering the terrorist cell, WAM said.

The yield on 10-year U.S. Treasuries fell two basis points to 1.75 percent. Trading in the notes opened as usual in New York after being shut for Christmas in the UK and Japan today, and around the world yesterday.

European and UK bond markets remain closed.

NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 24-12-12

44

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

45

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

THE NATION

e-Business The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), has promised that the mobile number portability scheme will take off in the first quarter of next year. Lack of awareness, simplicity of the process, equipment upgrading cost, among others, may impede its implementation. Will this come to pass or will it be shifted? LUCAS AJANAKU reports.

The coming of mobile number portability

W

HEN the global system for mobile (GSM) communication was launched more than a decade ago, Temitope Akindele bought his MTN subscriber identity module (SIM) pack for N20,000 and Nokia 3310 handset for N33, 500. Today, while a SIM pack goes for as little as N100, Nokia 3310 has given way to smartphones that goes for as little as below N10,000.

He now moves about with three handsets because of poor service quality by virtually all the networks.

This is not peculiar to Akindele. Thousands of subscribers go about with more than one handset. There seems to be an end as the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), says implementation of mobile number portability (MNP) will take off first quarter of next year. But Akindele, like many other subscribers, is not aware that such a programme will begin soon. “Number portability? What does that mean? I am not aware of anything like that. But if it will stop me from carrying many mobile phones, it is welcome,” he told TheNation.

NCC executive vice chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dr Eugene Juwah, said MNP will happen early next year. He attributed the delay in the implementation of the programme to the operators who he accused of failing to put the infrastructure required for the implementation of the programme. He said the regulator had selected a consortium of three companies – Interconnect, Saab Grintek and Telcordia – to manage the implementation of MNP. The consortium will be responsible for the set up and implementation of the MNP Clearing House and administer MNP in the country.

“None of the operators has upgraded their billing system. We are going to test very well before going full blast with implementation because it is better not to start at all than start and fail,” he said, adding that it is a tool that will help deepen competition in the market.

A representative of KPMG said in readiness for the project, all the operators have been connected to a clearing house.

According to him, what the subscriber needed to do was to walk into the shop of the donor network (the first network that assigned the telephone number to a subscriber) and express desire to port the number.

He added that a code will be given which will automatically connect the subscriber to the recipient network (the network that the subscriber is ported), adding that the process will take about two days to complete. He added that when a number is finally ported, such a number will remain on the recipient network for 90 days, should the owner wish to go back, before being returned to the old serving network (the network that previously served the ported number before it was ported to the new serving network.

Airtel has called for speedy implementation of the scheme as the telco said it was prepared for its take off. Airtel’s Director of Regulatory Affairs & Special Projects, Osondu Nwokoro, said, “Airtel is in full support of the urgent implementation of MNP. We commend the NCC for their efforts thus far and encourage them to push harder for the implementation of the Project. It is our belief that the implementation of MNP will address quality of service issues and also help to put an end to anti-competitive practices in the industry,” he said.

He added that, the initiative will benefit telecoms consumers as well as drive operators to improve service delivery.

Nwokoro said Airtel is currently working with relevant stakeholders to ensure the successful completion of the MNP. “Right now, the MNP test run is about to commence and Airtel is very prepared for this phase of the project. We are also working harmoniously with the Interconnect Clearing House and other operators to ensure that the project commences as scheduled as having too many implementation delays is not in the interest of the industry,” he said.

•Mrs Omobola Johnson, Communications Technology Minister

Deolu Ogunbanjo, president of National Association of Telecommunications Subscribers (NATCOMS), urge NCC to keep its pledge of implementing MNP in the first quarter of 2012. He said telecoms consumers are currently groaning in pains and MNP will provide the soothing relief to them. “With MNP in place, the subscriber can move freely from one non-performing service provider to a performing provider at no cost at all. This will lead to healthy competition in the industry as it will force operators to improve their service standards to avert subscriber churn.

To me, this is good for all,” he said, According to telecoms experts, MNP allows customers who wish to switch mobile operator to keep their mobile numbers, avoiding the costs of switching to new numbers.

Customers are predominantly reluctant to switch their network operator if this means that they would have to change their telephone number. They argue that changing one’s telephone numbers can be a major inconvenience and a potential barrier preventing the general public from taking advantage of the options available in a developed competitive telecommunications market.

According to them, while the implementation of MNP initiatives in many key markets has created new opportunities and improved the consumers’ experience, terminating calls into number-portability countries became more difficult, confusing and expensive as a result. The absence of MNP may therefore give incumbent operators a significant competitive advantage over new entrants into the market.

MNP allows mobile subscribers to change their service providers without having to change their existing phone numbers. If the subscribers are not satisfied with the services of their service providers, they can change their service providers while retaining existing phone number.

Many countries have made MNP mandatory to liberalise competition while many others are in the process of implementing it.

Analysts say a significant technical aspect of implementing MNP is related to the routing of calls or mobile messages; short message services (SMS) and multimedia message services (MMS) to a number once it is ported to some network.

MNP is essential to maximise the benefits of a competitive market. Benefits exist for the porting user because it

‘With MNP in place, the subscriber can move freely from one non-performing service provider to a performing provider at no cost at all. This will lead to healthy competition in the industry as it will force operators to improve their service standards to avert subscriber churn. To me, this is good for all’

•Juwah

•Nwokoro

eleiminates the cost of informing other parties of the number change, changing stationery and other signage in the case of business users, while to callers, it eliminates the need to consult directory enquiries and or change entries in their address book or computer.

Analysts say the success factors of MNP include subscriber awareness, simplicity of the process and speed of porting.

While they argue that subscriber awareness is very vital because subscribers need to know that it exists, they must be educated about how to go about it.

Simplicity of the process is another factor. Number ported in Nigeria must be used for 90 days before it can be ported again. The length of time the subscriber has to wait before opting out is adjudged to be too long while for speed to port, the two days time-frame to conclude the process is said to be too long. In this direction, sevice level agreement must be stringent enough to minimise the time taken to port the number to other network, experts say.

Like Finland, the absence of handset subsidies in Nigeria is another success factor. Where subsidies are given by the operator, there may be fixed term agreements which will limit options for the subscribers.

Cahllenges of MNP on the operator side include cost of setting up the Central Number Portability Data Bank (NPDB), software development upgrade, customer relation management (CRM), cost of upgrading the network infrastructure to support MNP, cost of maintaining the upgraded infrastruture and cost involved in the use of network resources to route the calls to the ported number.

Analysts say the NCC should embark on awareness campaign as it was done during the SIM registration exercise so that subscribers could take advantage of the scheme.

46

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

INDUSTRY 2012 REVIEW

A dull year for business, says OPS •Govt urged to address power problem, insecurity, others

The business environment has not improved despite government’s efforts to mitigate the challenges confronting the industrial sector.

TOBA AGBOOLA reports.

I

F President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration wants to achieve any meaningful economic development in 2013, then it must tackled some challenges that affected business in the outgoing year, the Organised Private Sector (OPS) has said.

It listed these as inadequate power supply, insecurity, credit squeeze, flooding, unemployment and corruption.

According to the group, the economy offers tremendous opportunities during the outgoing year, but the capacity of investors to harness them was constrained by some challenges.

Credit Squeeze President, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Mr Goddie Ibru, said the business condition in 2012 was challenging as credit squeeze and tight liquidity in the financial system made access to credit difficult and put pressure on interest rate.

He noted that the economy was characterised by weak consumer demand which affected all sectors.

He said funding remained a major problem for many investors, saying the cost of funds was high while access to credit appeared to be a more serious problem.

He said: “The tight monetary policy of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the harsh economic conditions which have affected the quality of loans are major factors in this regard. Let me stress that this economy cannot create the needed jobs if small businesses have no access to credit.”

Ibru pointed out that the global recovery was still hanging with the sustained weakness of the advanced economies. The spillover effected of the global financial crisis, he said, were fast spreading to other regions, especially the emerging markets, while the United States’ economy slowed further by 1.3 per cent in the third quarter from 1.5 per cent in the second quarter of the year.

“We are worried about these developments because of the implications for crude oil demand and subsequent impact on prices and the revenue base of government. ”For an economy that is so heavily dependent on crude oil revenue, developments in the global economy are crucial to economic stability and sustainability,” Ibru said.

Director-General, LCCI, Mr Muda Yusuf, also identified high cost of fund in the economy

•Ibru

•Ademola

•Aganga

and the tight monetary policy stance of the CBN as major factors that dampened investors’capacity to harness opportunities in 2012. ”The operating environment was generally adjudged to be unsatisfactory by many investors. This had profound impact on returns on investment and profit margins.The broad issues and challenges included weak consumer demand, cost and access to credit, cargo clearing processes, transportation costs, especially the collapse of the rail system; institutional problems, corruption, especially in relation to public sector transactions.

and agencies.

His words: “We believe that stronger commitment to the policy of patronage of madein-Nigeria products would have a tremendous impact on the industrial sector.

“Most manufacturers, therefore, ending up importing most of their input, thereby exposing them to risks of logistics and exchange rate movements, and others.

“China is a good lesson in this regard. At the earlier stages of its manufacturing and international trade expansion, ports began to clutter and congestion became a nightmare. It then embarked on an aggressive port expansion and creation of new ones that brought the country into number one ranking globally in container cargo handling and capacity – all in context of about 172 ports at present.

“My major concern in this set of drivers of manufacturing competitiveness is the tax system. It appears to me that the emphasis in the tax system and structure is to maximise government’s revenue, rather than motivate the type of economic activities that line up with the Vision 20:2020.”

affected the northern market and even the Lagos market. It affects the country generally.

“The economic losses are phenomenal. It affects the nation. The whole trading network in the North has been crippled. These countries are no longer buying from us.

“So, effectively, we have lost that huge market volume. The traders are no longer coming.

In fact, sales have dropped generally because even people living in the North hardly go out to shops because of insecurity. Also, business premises close shops earlier than elsewhere in Nigeria. All these are slowing down our businesses.”

Infrastructure The President, Nigeria Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Dr Ademola Ajayi, said poor infrastructure is one major challenge affecting the growth of the real sector.

He lamented the cost of providing physical infrastructure “Today’s cost of providing physical infrastructure (power, roads, railways, airports, etc) have become prohibitive for the three tiers of governments to bear.

Therefore, concessioning or privatising these infrastructure is advisable. This would replace the ‘do it alone syndrome’ by the government.

We counsel that each tier of government should consider embracing Public-Private Partnership (PPP), which has been successfully done on some heavy projects,“ he said.

Manufacturing Sector Ibru said the manufacturing sector is saddled with many problems and these are taking a toll on the economy.

He said the sector is still groaning under dwindling sales, weak consumer demand, high cost of fund, dumping of substandard products at ridiculous prices in the market and unethical practices in the distributive trade sector.

However, some manufacturers acknowledged the improvement in power supply, but lamented the outrageous tariff. There are concerns about weak commitment to the implementation of the policy of patronage of madein-Nigeria products by government ministries

Insecurity Fears are rife that if terrorism in some parts of the country is not checked, the economy would be crippled as it has lost about 45 per cent of its trade relations with neighbouring countries, NACCIMA said.

According to the Chamber, a significant chunk of local trade volume within the North has dropped and in the short run, if not checked, the already disadvantaged region would have its poverty margins widen.

First Deputy National President of NACCIMA,Alhaji Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, said: “Yes, terrorism is affecting our businesses in the North. There are no statistics, but I can give you some indications. On the Kano-Maiduguri axis, for instance, between 35 and 45 per cent of our goods are sold to the neighbouring countries - Chad, Niger, Central Africa and Cameroun.

“They were responsible for between 35 and 45 per cent of trade volume. They have stopped coming to buy because of insecurity. Since the foreign buyers have stopped coming, it has

Textile manufacturers seek N100b bailout

M

ANUFACTURERS of cotton, textile and garment have asked for N100 billion intervention fund to revive and enhance their operations.

Similarly, they called for a longer tenor rate on the repayment of the loans to aid the growth and development of the sector.

Speaking at the workshop in Abuja, General Secretary, National Union of Textile, Garment and Tailoring Workers, Isa Aremu, commended the government for the intervention effort in the sector, addings that though it came late, it was better than none.

He said: “When the textile industry was still vibrant, a single firm could generate

about 10,000 jobs. However, due to the intervention fund, we have been able to revive some firms. There is a need for an accelerated growth in the sector and this can be achieved through increased funding to the sector.

“At present, 58 companies are managing N10billon, while AMCON has spent about N5.6trillion on rescued banks. This gesture can also be replicated in the real sector if the desired growth and employment generation will be achieved.”

He urged Bank of Industry (BoI) to increase the tenor rate for loans sought by firms in the real sector to aid the loans to the companies and foster development.

“A drop in interest rates for the real sector will foster its growth. I believe we can work towards a zero per cent interest rate if we set our mind towards it”, he said.

On efforts to encourage the subsector’s development, he said: “We are working through the Standards Organisation of Nigeria, to reduce the dumping of sub-standard goods into the country.

“Some of these goods include textiles and apparels. We are also exploring diplomatic channels through our Trade Ambassador at the World Trade Organisation. To ensure increase in power supply, we are working with the Ministry of Power to ensure 10 industrial cities in the country have,

at least, 18 hours of uninterrupted power supply by first quarter of next year (2013).

“Our aspiration for the textile and apparel industry is to increase its domestic market share from its present position of 12 per cent to 25 per cent by 2020. We also expect this sector to create over 60,000 direct jobs within this period.

“To achieve this, the strategic thrust requires reviving the entire value chain. This includes strengthening the base by boosting cotton production for use in the domestic sector and potential exports, supporting players to expand their current operations and attracting strong brands to set up local manufacturing operation in the country.”

Flood The recent floods witnessed in some states have begun to take their toll on economic indices in the country, finance experts have said.

Financial Derivatives Company (FDC), a finance research firm, said in a report that the flooding has led to increase in food index , most especially non-oil sector.

According to the reports, “As anticipated, food inflation rose to 10.2 per cent due to a shortage in food supply. This is partly as a result of the recent flooding, which delayed the harvest for some crops, such as cocoa, beans and pepper.

“In addition, transporting harvested products to the markets has become more difficult and expensive as most of the roads are now impassable.”

The cocoa industry body said last month that cocoa output would fall far short of a 300,000 tonne target for last season.

According to Ajayi flooding in parts of the country has reduced business opportunities in agriculture.

He said the flooding affected business activities, especially the agro-allied businesses.

“No doubt, the recent flooding will and is affecting a great number of people, particularly our members.

“Business activities and transportation have been grounded in some flooded communities. ‘‘The flood has caused lots of pains and loss of properties. It has rendered many homeless.

The damages done by the floods are enormous to Nigeria’s food security,’’ he said.

ITF chief wants payment for SIWES stopped

T

HE N2, 500 stipend paid to participants of the Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) should be stopped because the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) could no longer fund it, its Director-General, Prof Wapmuk has said.

Speaking at a forum in Lagos, he said the agency is owing students the programme about N12 billion.

He said when the number of students under the scheme was manageable, the agency was up to date with the payment, adding that when the number increased the funding a;lso went up.

IoD to seek govt’s assistance

T

HE Institute of Directors (IoD) has said it will urge the government to deliver on its promises of providing adequate infrastructure, including electricity, good roads, water and health care facilities Speaking during the Annual Dinner/Dance in Lagos, IoD President, Thomas Awagu, said the institute has responsibility for low tax rate, cost of land and affordable housing to low income earners.

He said plans have been concluded to start business interactions between top government officials and the council members on some vital issues on the industrial sector early next year.

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

47

THE NATION

NATURAL HEALTH E-mail:- health@thenationonlineng.net

High fibre, exercise good for diabetes treatment A NATUROPATH, Dr Lambo Adebisi of Lamdebs Clinic, Ojota, Lagos, has recommended high fibre, whole foods diet and exercise for the management of diabetes.

According to him, reduction in consumption of starchy foods that are high in carbohydrates such as bread, potatoes, processed cereals, rice or food with a high glycemic index rating can prevent the disease.

“The Glycemic Index is a system that ranks foods based on how they affect your levels of blood sugar,” he added.

He also recommended exercise, in addition to herbal preparation made from leaves and roots of trees for diabetics to reduce their weight and cleanse their colon.

This, he added, usually helps those with type 2 diabetes. “In addition to decreasing body fat, regular exercise has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity,” he noted A diabetic, Adebisi said, is somebody whose body cannot effectively utilise glucose and as such allows it to stay in the blood.

He said the disorder always affects the body mechanism which controls blood sugar.

On the danger signs, he said: “The buildup of sugar in the blood which can cause the cells of our bodies to be starved for glucose and can, if left unchecked, lead to damage of the eyes, kidneys, nerves and heart.

“When people eat, our bodies break down the proteins, carbohydrates and fats they consume and are used as the building blocks of the bodies. Carbohydrates, such as those found in bread, pasta, rice, potatoes and cereals are first digested and converted into simple sugars in the intestines and then move from the intestines into the bloodstream.

These simple sugars are the body’s first choice for energy production,” he added.

He said glucose, which is a form of simple sugar, is the basic nutrient that the body uses for energy. “For the body to utilise this sugar

P

EPTIC ulcer is an erosion in the mucous membrane of the stomach or duodenum, the upper portion of the intestine, directly below the stomach. There are many home remedies for ulcers.

Causes of peptic ulcer:

Ulcers are in part caused (and can be worsened) by the corrosive action of the gastric acids. Gastric juices are part hydrochloric acid and part pepsin, an enzyme that helps break down food. The walls of the stomach secrete a mucus substance to protect the linings from the corrosive action of the stomach acid. However if there is too much acid or not enough mucus coating the walls of the stomach, a peptic ulcer may develop.

External substances can also irritate the linings of the stomach, things like tobacco, alcohol, and some drugs like Advil, Aleve, Aspirin, Motrin, etc. are part of the ulcer causing irritants.

It’s now known that a bacterium called H. pylori, can also contribute to the development of ulcers, this type of bacterium is commonly found in the linings of the stomach and is the principal cause of ulcers. It has been shown that 90 per cent of people suffering from ulcers in the duodenum and 75 per cent of all gastric ulcers are caused by this bacterium, which attacks the walls of the stomach; it has been linked to gastric cancer as well.

Ulcers are very common in the bottom part of the stomach and upper part of the duodenum, and men are more likely to develop ulcers than women.

•Fruits

•Adebisi

By Wale Adepoju

it must be transported across the cell membrane where it can be used to feed and fuel the cells.

“Insulin, a hormone secreted by the pancreas, and more specifically by the islets of Langerhans, which are scattered throughout the pancreas, stimulates our body’s cells to absorb sugar, thus removing it from the blood stream,” he added.

He said diabetes are of two types. The first is insulin dependent or Type 1 diabetes while the second is non-insulin

But many people with type 2 diabetes do not have such symptoms, the naturopath noted.

People at a higher risk, he said, are those older than 40 years. Others are those overweight and some with family history of diabetes. “Those who have had diabetes during pregnancy. People with high blood pressure or high blood fats or those who are stressed out due to an illness or injury, or members of a high-risk ethnic group such as African-American, Hispanic, American Indian and Asian, are more susceptible.

“For them, natural and alternative health therapies tend to work well,” Adebisi added.

Brown rice water can cure ulcer mangosteen to investigate its effects on other types of inflammation of the body and by accident they found that Xanthones did not interfere with the clotting mechanism of blood, nor producing stomach ulcers. Both are serious side effects of the anti-inflammatory drugs. In fact, it was discovered that the xanthones antiulcera exhibited a significant activity in laboratory animals. Learn more about mangosteen for ulcer.

It’s very important to follow a diet rich in fibre and low in fats. Eat steamed green vegetable like alfalfa, broccoli, and tomatoes.

Tips:

Did you know that deficiency in vitamin K has been linked to ulcers? Vitamin K prevents bleeding and promotes healing. Our

body produces enough of this vitamin but people with deficiency are prone to develop ulcers. Vitamin K it’s found in, tomatoes, cheese, egg yolks, liver and in most green leafy vegetables.

• Eat small portions to avoid producing too much digestive acid, but eat frequently to keep these acids from attacking the stomach linings.

• Studies have shown that cabbage juice cures ulcers in less than 10 days, prepare cabbage juice and drink one quarter a day divided in four doses (must be taken immediately after juicing). If you can’t tolerate the taste or odor of cabbage there is a Chinese remedy made with dried cabbage that has been used for many years with excellent re-

sults.

• For bleeding ulcers eat organic baby food and drink brown rice water to soothe the digestive system.

• Avoid milk, although it soothes the digestive tract and neutralizes stomach acid, it also stimulates the production of more acid, further irritating the ulcerated area.

• Avoid coffee, alcohol, citrus juices, sugar, hot and spicy foods, these substances irritate the stomach and encourage the production of gastric acid.

• Take 5000 IU of vitamin A four times a day, for six weeks, to heal the mucus membrane.

• Culled from www.homemademedicine.com

The many benefits of ginger

Symptoms of peptic ulcers

The symptoms of peptic ulcers are very different from person to person, some feel a burning pain in the stomach and others feel it in the chest, most people feel better during meals and other feel worst eating, in any case the pain may be severe enough to cause insomnia and can be triggered by stress.

Recommended home remedies: Researchers in India used the skin of the

dependent, or Type 2 diabetes.

“Type 1 diabetes, is often referred to as juvenile or childhood-onset diabetes. Here, the pancreas cannot make the insulin needed by the body to process glucose. For individuals with Type 1 diabetes, while natural therapies may help the body be more receptive to insulin.

“Type 2 or Adult-onset diabetes can produce some insulin and the ability of their body’s cells to absorb sugar is reduced.

Excessive thirst, excessive hunger, excessive urination, excessive tiredness, and unexplained weight loss are warning signs, Adebisi said.

•Ginger

G

INGER truly does top the list of effective natural home remedies.

Being used throughout history by different cultures around the world, ginger harnesses an incredible healing power proven for a host of ailments. The spice is packed with

essential nutrients and rejuvenating compounds. While ginger has been shown to help countless ‘minor’ problems such as an upset stomach, amazingly the health benefits of ginger also include combating cancer more effectively than pharmaceutical cancer drugs.

Ginger is a powerful cancer fighter While ginger helps common illnesses, it’s positive effect on more serious health conditions cannot be disregarded. One such serious health condition that ginger has been known to help treat for years is ovarian cancer. The University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Centre found out through their research that ginger can also destroy ovarian cancer cells. What’s more, they found that ginger triggered two types of cell death – apoptosis and autophagy. “Apoptosis…results from cancer cells essentially committing suicide. The other type of cell death, called autophagy, results from cells digesting or attacking themselves.”

“In multiple ovarian cancer cell lines, we found that ginger induced cell death at a similar or better rate than the platinum-based chemotherapy drugs typically used to treat ovarian cancer,” says Jennifer Rhode, M.D., a gynecologic oncology fellow at the U-M Medical School.

Aside from helping to treat ovarian cancer, ginger also offers plenty of protective benefits for colon cancer. The University studied how ginger could hinder the progression of colorectal cancer cells. One trial published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology has shown that those consuming ginger root had lower levels of colon inflammation and inflammation of the intestines, thereby helping to reduce the risk of colon cancer. Other studies have also shown that ginger could help tumor formation for those exposed to a cancer-causing chemical.

• Culled from www.naturalsociety.com.

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

48

NATURAL HEALTH

Christmas, harmattan, homosexuals and lesbians why is his wife of almost 50 years and of about the same age not suffering from this condition as well? The answer, of course, is: constitutional difference. He took biochemic cell salts specific to sinusitis, and, when the discharge became yellowish, those specific for yellow discharges were added to the prescription. The liver, intestines and the blood were detoxified. So was the lympathic system. Candida, a yeast, was the prime target, and for this Amazon A-F was a stair medicine. For the blood, the proprietary named MYCO(for mycobacteria i.e. bacteria in blood and lympten) was taken. The mucus membrances were inflamed and did well on anti-inflamed and did well on anti-inflamatories such as curcumin 2000x, Bioflavonoid complex, high dosage alkaline Vitamin C, essential fatty acids especially flax seed cal and Udos oil. Neprinol, the conglomerate proprietary warehouse for serrapeptase, Bromelain and Nattokinese. With the inclusion of certain cofactors such as papam, rutin, co-enzyme Quo and protease factors, Neprinol presents therapeutic actions as systemic and hpolytic enzymes blend. This arms the immune system with power to digest all proteins not meant to be in the body, and this includes the proteins from which germs are made.

Finally, but not the end of the list, there was ceregano oil spray, a powerful though expensive ally. One drip in the morning and one in the evening burned “fires” in the nasal cavity and brain, as the octogenarian explained it. One drop in the throat also helped to clear the germs there which may re-infect the nasal carvities. This gentleman always expressed the wish to be able to blow his nose. He believed some debris had got stuck in there, creating his problems of over two decades and that it would clear if only he could blow it out. Well, with organo oil VITAMINS THAT HEAL: “Skin loses may increase greatly when spray he got more than he bargained for. The nose ran and ran. there is profuse perspiration due to strenuous physical exertion He lost count of how many rolls of toilet paper or handkerchief in a hot environment under such circumstances, salt depletion he had to use in one day. He got so enthusiastic about the may be accompanied by heat exhaustion.” detoxification that he overdosed himself on another food That is why, in a season such as this, it is advisable to respond supplement, NATURAL CALM, which supplies magnesium to thirst signals not just by drinking water but by enriching abundantly. Magnesium deficiency had been a possible cause of water with mineral salts and electrolytes i.e. potassium, sodium constipation of many years. As he told me, he messed the carpet chloride and bicarbonate. I should not fail to add that excess between his bed and the water closet! I hope he stays fit on his sweating depletes the water volums of these mighty “oceans” maintenance food supplements and foreskes old habits, such as within us. When the inside of the cell is short of water, life a penchant for smoked animal flesh i.e suya, as suggested by Dr processes are altered. Dr. Batmanghelidy, for example, linked Stanley N. Farb, M.D. the dreaded HIV disease to dehydration, stress and malnutriChristmas tion, apart from other possible causes. The All-Wise Creator Another Christmas affords Christmas another reminder of made water constitute about 75 per cent of our body. About the the High Divine Mission of the Lord Jesus Christ to this spiritusame water ratio is to be found in plants weren’t we taught at ally slumbering humanity. The real purpose of this Mission school that about 75 per cent of the earth’s surface was water? would be clear to the deep thinker. Did He come to die for sins Everything connected with living processes happens within a or was He murdered cause He was considered bothersome to water medium. And that, thanks to Dr Batmanghelidy who earthly authorities? Christ told of His Mission in the parable of helped to change the paradigming medicure in favour of the the Vineyard in that parable, did the owner of the vineyard send solvent, we now know we need a minimum of eight glasses of His son to be killed by His servants? If in anger the curtain clean water every day … two on rising, two before a meal and shielding the Ark of the covenant was shred to pieces, suggesttwo about two or three hours after water taken in this manner ing abrogation of the covenant, did that signify approval of the helps not only to hydrate the system but to also assist in the crucifixion. Why was the wife of Pontius Pilate guided in a dream production of enzymes, hormones, the flush of the kidneys aid to advise her husband to free Jesus? Had Pilate not feared for his the intestines. Imagine a water closet without water to flush it. It job and let Christ go, what stories would we have been telling would become blocked in no time and unusable. That’s what today? Why did Christ tell Judas it would have been better for happens to our organs… when not well flushed, they become him if he were not born, so he would not have been involved blocked and weakened; we complain of pain and disease; we with His betrayal? Why did He also say Judas, having been begin to age rapidly. Dr Batmanghelid and other modern medical born, it would have been better of he was drowned before the researchers have linked dehydration to many diseases includact? Why did Judas commit suicide? Why did the church not ing diabetes, arthritis, asthma, constipation and ulcer. declare Judas a saint, and why do Christians not name their children after Judas if his action had God’s backing as many The dust Christians believe? Deep Christian values have watered down Many people take the dust for granted. It would appear their over the centuries. Today in Nigeria, many concepts are false or bodies have a large capacity through a vibrant immune system, dead, not living. Often we hear people say “God is in control” to handle it. But many people, such as asthmatics, are not so when it comes to matters in which they should take decision lucky. This is a season such people detest. personal action.

They suffer from diseases classified as seasonal Affective DisIf He was not in control would they be breathing, would the order (SAD). These are usually allergic disorders. There is one sun be rising and setting? Yes, He is in control of the Universe man I know who will be happy this season. Well over 70, he was and He expects us to be in control of our own lives. One Sunday, advised over 20 years ago to undergo corrective surgery for a one of my face book friends asked us his friends to write praise sinus blockage which made him breakage which made him of the Creator on his wall if we believed He had been good to us. breathe only through the mouth. The sinuses are carities In no time, the wall began to fill up. I had to write on the wall to interlinked with other passages in the head. When they become disagree with him. The Creator does not need our praises of blocked, they become loaded with pressure that may make the Him. He isn’t vain. We got into that thinking as the Jesus did head heavy and seem like breaking up; they cause headaches with thinking human sacrifice was more acceptable than animal and terrible discomfort. Some people experience post-nasal drip burnt offerings. If He has been good to us, it would please Him in which the nostrils run as if they were taps. if we extend that goodness to our neighbours I asked: who among For many years, a much younger man had to spray his nostrils us, after a sumptuous breakfast yesterday, remembered people every 30 minutes or more to clear them. Somehow, he has shed who had no money for a meal? How many people budget every lots of naught, and would appear to have overcome this diallenge month to support organisations which look after the poor? Christ when I send him last week. once allegorically told the story of people who did not give Him People who have the money create a dust free oasis around when He visited them! themselves as advised by Dr Richard Podell MD., former cliniI cannot forget the new Christian practice in which men “bless” cal professor of family medicine at the University of Mediane God in their prayers. Man is a fruit of Creation, that is a creature. and Dentistry of New Jessey. One way to do this is by air-condiGod is Life, and needs nothing to be God. In Him resides all the tioning the house. The air conditioner humidifies the house and blessings of this Universe. How can (only man who owned nothkeeps the house mite and mold away. Mites and told often ining in this world bless the owner of everything? Many who vade the upper respiratory tract which traps them in immune have not taken anything away from this earth, who depend on response by getting the mucus membrances to produce more God for everything, including his breadth. Foolish man. Chrismucus. Trying to dry the mucus can, therefore, be counter-protians of old were wiser. They sang that even if they had a thouductive to the self defence plan of mother Nature. Wouldn’t it be sand tongues, all these tongues couldn’t praise Him enough let better to support this plan reduce or eliminate the mite and alone worship Him. Things, praise and worship we in the deed mold population? These were the therapy goals adopted in rein love for one’s neighbor! How many of us love our neighbor spect of the sinusitis of the octogenarian mentioned earlier on. I as ourselves. would not recommend air conditioning because it has its own Distortions of subline concepts sooner than later avenge themflaws. Even air cleaners which move particles out of the air has selves. And that is why a revolt has broken out in European been found to move them around as well, thereby not serving as America against the wrong picture of God presented to man by an oasis cure. Many people have tried to dehumidify their homes the Church. Now, in America, the state has gagged the church. or to spray them with fungiades. Pets have been isolated. In The church cannot explain why people become homosexuals, extreme cases, some people even wear face masks to no avail. lesbians and bisexual, but condemn them, subjecting them to This matter can be so serious as to warrant carpets being thrown hatred. These filks are DISTORED SOULS who need love and to away and replaced with ceramic or granite tiles which require understand what has happened to them and care to restore The hot weather no vacuum cleaning. And some people are known to seal their themselves to kicks deep spiritual knowledge and thrives on Excessive sweating in the hot weather takes these important bedding in plastic . dogmas which the intellectual man rejects. About homosexuals, substances out of the body with the possibility of creating defiIn the octogerian’s case under reference the starting point of lesbians and bisexual, this column will write… before another ciencies of them at a point in time. Dr H. K. Bakhru says in his therapy was detoxication. It was based on this simple question: Christmas. e-mail: femi.kusa@yahoo.com or olufemikusa@yahoo.com Tel: 08034004247, 07025077303

TUESDAY was yet another Christmas Day. And, as usual, the setting in Nigeria was the harmattan season. The air is dry, the weather hot and the atmosphere dusty. I awoke from night sleep last Sunday morning to realise I hadn’t prepared well enough for this season. My eyelids were crusted and had to pick some irritants in the dusty air, I wondered. Luckily I wasn’t coughing or sneezing yet. Orange peel oil made by chopping some orange peel and boiling in water gently for some time may have helped, if the coughing and sneezing weren’t of serious nature, such as asthma or bronchitis or any where upper respiratory tract infection. As for the eyes, I’d have to wait another day to get colloidal silver for them. Meanwhile, I got lime juice to which I added some apple cider vinegar and then dissolved bio-chemic phosphate cell salts (ferrum phos kali phos, Natrum phos and silica). In no time, the discharge cleared.

And I had killed many birds with one stone!

What do I mean? This is a sapping season. I must have needed about four handkerchiefs last Friday. The whether is hot, and everyone is sweating profusely. Sweating takes out of the body not only a lot of water but mineral salts as well. There are three major oceans of water in the body, which must not dry up or be evaporated beyond a minimum volume otherwise health problems of all sorts would arise. Dr F. Batmanghelidy has shown the world that water holdings in the body are far more important than medicare previously thought. Before disthesis, doctors worried more about the solute that is biochemical substances in the blood such as cholesterol than they did about the solvent, water.

The three oceans Water is held inside the 100 trillion cells or so in an adult body in spaces outside the cells and in the blood vessels certain tissue salts (also called biochemic cell salts) ensure water inside the cells do not escape the team, which includes potassium, calcium and magnesium holds water outside the cell. Many researchers believe there should be four parts of potassium to one of sodium for the oceans to work in harmony. When more sodium than potassium features in the body’s biochemistry, or when this A: potassium. Sodium is breached, the excess sodium enters the cell from its station in the extracellular or interstitial space and pushes out potassium. Dr Carl Gerson was one of the first doctors to free fully argue that such a disparpastumate ratio leads the cell away from an oxygen – using life (oxidative) to a fermentative process, or a life that does not require oxygen to thrive. It has now been proven that potassium is what actually extracts oxygen from the haemoglobin of red blood cells, and this is why in health conditions which require improvement of the bodys oxygen content such as cancer, the biochemic cell salt potassium phosphate or Kali phos is prescribed by cell salt practitioners.

Potassium deficiency, which is possible in this seating season, as potassium has been linked to muscle and tissue soreness and pain, heart problems, including palpitation, growths of all kinds, including cancer, uterine fibroids and pterygium, which causes blindness, have been treated with potassium in organic form since Dr Gerson proved that the fermentation of cancer was due to tissue potassium loss which he treated with varying degrees of success, however bad the conditions were, in the 50 cases he published before the United States Congress gave him a hearing for research funding.

As Dr Robert Atkins, now of blessed memory, would say on his (Dr Atkins Vita Nutrients solution: “ Promoting the cellular equilibrium through an emphasis on potassium is one of the most important strategies we can adopt against heart disease and cancer. Getting enough potassium is more important than limiting salt intake for regulating blood pressure. Potassium is also critical for optimum energy, nerve health muscle contraction athletic performance, and a range of other functions.”

As stated above, sodium holds water outside the cell it has been badmouthed for decades as a cause of high blood pressure, heart disease and other diseases. But in recent years the indispensability of sodium has gained currency. It has turned out that the bad sodium is the table salt or sodium chloride.

Natural sodium, as in sea salt, is brown. But it cakes easily. So, the business people bleach it to remove the caking agents and then they add aluminium, that dangerous brain and nerve damaging substance, to enhance the anti-caking potential. This is the white table salt which causes all those problems. It has been stripped during the refining process of almost 50 biochemical substances which act as checks and balance on sodium chloride.

Mother Nature provides us with homeopathic sodium in food crops or sea salt which comes in varying forms. We can get it also in the biochemic or cell salt in the form of Natrum mur, and Natrum phos if there was no sodium in the extracellular space, there would be no fluid there, and there would be no motion which takes nutrients into the intracellular space and drive wastes or poisons out of it sodium attempt to enter the cell, and potassium antagonistic response to chase it out creates an electrical acute across the cell remembrance.

This push – in and push-out drive is powered by what is termed the sodium battery. This battery drives the sodium Potassium pump which pumps in and outside the cell. The battery is comparable to a car battery. If it is active, motion is optimal. But if the battery is flat, a power slump or outage occurs that’s probably when we feel tow. In such a situation, mix lime juice and orange juice and add some apple cider vinegar and sodium and potassium cell salts. The rejuvenation is after dramatic because lime, orange and apple cider vinegar are power houses of potassium while the sodium cell salts and/or sea salt provides sodium the exact structure in which it occurs in the cells.

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BENUE STATE GOVERNMENT

BUDGET SPEECH 2013

“DEVELOPMENT AND GROWTH EFFECTIVENESS” Budget 2013 Address

by

HIS EXCELLENCY

Rt. HON. GABRIEL TORWUA SUSWAM PhD, CON THE EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR OF BENUE STATE, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2012 Presentation of the 2013 Appropriation Bill to the Benue State House of Assembly.

ADDRESS BY HIS EXCELLENCY RT. HON. GABRIEL TORWUA SUSWAM PhD, CON, THE EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR OF BENUE STATE, ON THE OCCASION OF THE PRESENTATION OF THE 2013 APPROPRIATION TO THE BENUE STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY ON TUSEDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2012 My Speaker, Honourable Members, 1.

I am pleased to be here today to address our Honourable House of Assembly and present the 2013 Benue State Government budget proposals. The 2013 budget proposals, which we have christened the budget of “DEVELOPMENT AND GROWTH EFFECTIVENESS”, seek to promote the continuity of the development objectives of our administration. The budget in many ways is consistent with the demonstrable objectives of the 2012 budget.

2.

Mr. Speaker, let me use this occasion to congratulate you on your successful assumption of the Office of Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly. Let me also congratulate this Honourable House for its maturity in handling its leadership issues in a most peaceful and democratic manner. Having successfully conducted elections into all the Local Government councils in the State, it is incumbent on us to become more focused and diligent in our development objectives. Our people at this stage in the life of this administration expect us as leaders to show leadership, responsibility and dedication to the cause of improving their lives.

3.

From day one, our administration has been committed to the welfare and development of Benue State. We have worked tirelessly to ensure quality in service delivery and even spread of development in the State. Mr. Speaker, despite what we have put in place so far, a lot still needs to be done, given the development deficit in our society. The challenge, therefore, is to see to it that the scarce resources available to us are judiciously and equitably used.

Overview of the Year 2012 Budget 4.

Mr. Speaker, this Honourable House had, earlier this year passed into law a total appropriation of N112,782,520,743, to which I gave my accent. The 2012 budget, which was christened “Budget of Actualisation of Growth and Development”, continued our Administration’s development objective of consolidating on the actualisation of our projects and programmes. The budget you passed was to be funded from both Federation Account and internal revenue sources.

5.

The 2012 Budget was made up of a recurrent expenditure of N58,682,603,208, which was further broken down into personnel costs NEXT PAGE

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of N39,408,255,791 and Overhead costs of N19,274,347,417. A total sum of N54,099,917,535 was appropriated as capital expenditure to various heads of expenditure in the budget under review. This figure was assigned to priority projects that cut across all the sectors in the State.

6.

Mr. Speaker it is instructive to note that all expected revenue items under-performed against the proposed revenue in-flow in 2012. On the whole, we witnessed unprecedented fall in Federation account receipts.

Also, we have had to contend with a drop in the performance of our IGR as a result of poor collections and remittances by revenue collecting institutions. Consequent upon this, we have, as a responsible Government take steps and put in place measures to ensure that revenue collection and remittances become more effective and efficient in 2013.

Expenditure Performance for Year 2012 7.

A total sum of N46,342,614,671.31 was spent as actual recurrent expenditure over the period of 2012. This figure, which includes both personnel and overhead costs, represents 72 per cent of total 2012 appropriation. In addition, this figure is inclusive of a sum of N1,729,986,411 for pension and gratuity.

8.

Capital expenditure over the period under review amounted to N17,608,587,731.98. Total expenditure by the State Government over the period under review was N63,951,202,403.29. This represents 57 per cent of the total appropriation for fiscal year 2012. Comparative analysis indicates that the 2011 budget did better on the side of revenue than the 2012 budget. In 2011 a little over N70.7 billion was realised as actual revenue.

9.

Mr. Speaker, Honourable Members, over the year’s recurrent expenditure has continued to grow and crowd out capital expenditure. In 2012 recurrent expenditure accounted for 72 per cent of our spending.

Although I am not happy about this lopsided expenditure mix by which a disproportionately high percentage of our incomes are expended as recurrent expenditure, the challenge of our spending mix has continued to be the structure of our wage bill and the fact that Government is the major employer of labour in the State.

10. In 2013 we will put in place measures to bring recurrent spending down to a reasonable level, and increase our investment on the capital side. Our Administration will continue to invest in those areas such as agriculture, works and transport that have multiplier effect, and ensure that the enabling environment is created to attract more investors into the State. In the outgoing fiscal year, our State witnessed increasing interest by investors in some of our industrial concerns with the view to reviving them and providing employment to our people in these factories.

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and at best sluggish. Three major constraints account for the current state of our finances and the tightened liquidity. These include the continued increase in the State Government wage bill; increasing State Government commitment on contractual liabilities; and the drop in the generation and accounting of internal revenues.

State Wage Bill Structure 13. Four factors have critically affected the State Government’s wage bill structure. These are the fact that the work force structure continues to be top heavy; the requirements for the accreditation of our educational institutions and the medical school; outstanding arrears and attendant demands by labour; new recruitments by some parastatals such as the Health Management Board and Teaching Service Board.

14. Mr. Speaker, Honourable Members, inspite of these factors Government has been consistent in the payment of salaries and wages of all employed staff, both civil servants and political appointees. Our current net wage bill stands at N2,433,916,373 a month, giving us an annual wage bill of N29,206,996,476. With the mandatory allowance for growth, variation and new employment, the total net wage bill of the Benue State Government by year 2012 going into 2013 is put at over N39 billion. We have continued to witness growth in wage figures principally in three sub-sectors. These are the educational, judicial and health sub-sectors.

These three sub-sectors account for 63.5 per cent of the total work force of the State Government and about 70 per cent of total wage bill.

State Government Contractual Liabilities: 15. Current State Government contractual liabilities have continued to increase, with Ministry of Works and Transport accounting for the bulk with N29.224 billion. These liabilities or unfunded contractual commitments span over a four-year period and have occurred largely as a result of revenue shortfalls over the years. This and other inherited financial liabilities have placed undue constraints on State Government accounts.

16. This raises two concerns. The first concern is that the Administration risks the possibility of not completing and commissioning projects conceived and started by it. Secondly, continued distortion of current fiscal trends by unfunded past contractual commitments and liabilities has a disposition of distorting the Administration’s set policies and programmes as enunciated in Our Benue, Our Future. These two factors are eroding our Administration’s legacy portfolio. Currently we are spending a sizeable sum of our current income on past projects and programmes and very little on current projects and programmes.

Internal Revenue Performance: 17. The State Government had in the last 18 months rigorously restructured the revenue administration of the State. Government has also continued to improve on the machinery of collection and accounting of IGR. This necessitated the Office of the Accountant General of the State to issue a strongly worded Circular to all stakeholders as to the procedure involved in the collection and remittance of government revenue into the State Government treasury.

11.

Mr. Speaker, I must not fail to address the issue of the massive flooding that befell our dear State and its impact on our agriculture and economy at large. The flooding created considerable human misery and materials losses in the affected areas. Our Administration is grateful for the numerous out pouring of support and humanitarian gestures given to us by the Federal Government under the leadership of President Goodluck Jonathan, various State Governments, Non-Governmental Organization (NGOs), faith based organisations as well as spirited individuals. Mr. Speaker, Honourable Members, we have set up a committee to handle the relief and rehabilitation of the flood victims.

Government would also take steps to ensure that in future, disasters of this nature would neither take us unaware nor have such devastating consequences.

18. Internally generated revenue that is not collected and or accounted for is revenue not spent on this Administration’s policy projects and programmes. It is important to note that of the total IGR of N5,542,656,835 collected as at December 17, 2012 the sum of N4,938,828,813 is actually from PAYE. This means that the BIRS only collected N603,828,022 over the period under review as its efforts.

Fiscal Risk and State Government Financial Trend in 2012 12. Mr. Speaker, Honourable Members, in the current fiscal year the State Government’s financial trend has continued to be less impressive

Policy Thrust for the Year 2013 Budget 19. Mr. Speaker, Honourable Members, the 2013 fiscal framework envisages improved efficiency in revenue administration compared to NEXT PAGE

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the previous fiscal year. In addition, Government intends to be strict in expenditure control to ensure efficiency in spending and accountability.

Consequently, Ministries, Departments and Agencies have been directed to stick and abide by approved expenditure during the course of the fiscal year 2013. The objective of our Administration is to ensure that spending is set at prudent, sustainable and reasonable levels and is consistent with both revenue expectations and overall fiscal objectives of government.

20. Our fiscal strategy in 2013 is predicated on renewed spending approach and particularly aims at: a. sustainability of our State’s aggregate expenditure by ensuring the adoption of accurate revenue estimates and accounting; b. continued reinvigoration of internal revenue collection, remittances and accounting to ensure proper funding of development projects of government; c. realistic budget estimates and prudent limits for Ministries, Departments and Agencies’ expenditure to ensure low fiscal deficits with little or no public sector borrowing; and d. sustainable level of public debt, to ensure that the State, given where we are, does not add more to our existing debt stock.

21. Mr. Speaker, Honourable Members, overall it is important that Government has set for itself three critical guides to the 2013 budget.

These are that spending should be within realistic limits. Secondly, that our spending should be appropriated; and thirdly, we must resist the temptation to grow current debt stocks. These guides show our responsiveness to contemporary economic issues, and I believe would stand our Administration in good stead in the provision of the dividends of democracy for our State.

Objectives of Year 2013 Budget 22. Mr. Speaker, Honourable Members, the 2013 Budget is underpinned by clear objectives, which reflect our Administration’s developmental policies. In addition, these objectives have been set taking into consideration our national economic environment. The following objectives have been set for the 2013 Budget:a. payment of salaries and wages of State Government public servants as at when due and meeting of State pension obligations, b. continued funding to improve developmental infrastructure, social welfare, human capital development, quality of life and revenue base of the State. c. prioritisation by each MDA, such that those of highest priority are listed first and funded accordingly to completion, d. proposals of all new projects in the 2013 budget are aimed at achieving the development objective of “Our Benue, Our Future” showing focus and determination, and e. strict adherence to approved appropriation, and the adherence to the principle of value for money in all spending.

23. Mr. Speaker, Honourable Members, I can assure you that all proposals from MDAs are based on the objectives of fiscal year 2013 Budget. Because of the strong desire of our Administration to expand employment opportunities, wealth creation and social capital, each MDA undertook a critical look at their 2012 approved budget and predicated their 2013 draft budget on those unfunded items, but which meet the desired criteria. Thus, the 2013 budget has reflected the critical projects that will ensure employment opportunities, wealth creation and social capital in our dear State.

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24. Unemployment in the country has remained a major problem, and Benue is not immune from this. In 2012 our Administration began critical recruitments in two major sectors; these are the Health and Education sectors. Contrary to some sceptics, our Administration has created considerable opportunities across the State.

25. Mr. Speaker, Honourable Members, we have introduced a number of new projects in the year 2013 Budget that are in line with the objectives of 2013 budget. These projects, including constituency capital projects are spread across various MDA’s. These projects were carefully considered before they were included in the 2013 estimates. Given their priority rating, we will devote available funds to their realisation.

Parameters And Assumptions In Year 2013 Budget 26. Mr. Speaker, Honourable Members, we have made the following assumptions with the hope that they will lead to achieving our stated objectives for the 2013 budget. These assumptions are that there would be:a. no material change in current estimated statutory revenues, which means that at the minimum we do not expect revenue to fall below 2012 levels, b. significant increase in State Government share of FAAC receipts due to improved and favourable inflows to the Federation account, c. expected improvement in internally generated revenues into Government treasury, taking into consideration additional stringent measures being put in place to rake in all revenues. In 2013 we will ensure that all revenue collecting institutions increase effectiveness and efficiency in collection and remittance to the State Treasury, d. continued funding of State Government debt stock obligations, e. increased economic growth and development through implementation of projects and programmes leading to political goodwill, f. political and economic stability in the nation during fiscal year 2013.

Proposed Revenue and Expenditure Estimates 27. Mr. Speaker, Honourable Members, our conceptualisation of the 2013 Budget took into account revenue accruals from both Federation Account and internal sources for the year 2012. The details of these figures are contained in the estimates document that I shall lay before you. I have also directed the Commissioner of Finance to ensure that he meets with the relevant House Committees and takes them through the details of our revenue profile.

28. Mr Speaker, Honourable Members, the projected revenue for year 2013 from all sources is 130,992,126,509.00 which translates into the total expenditure outlay of the same amount. Our total budget for year 2013 is therefore the sum of N130,992,126,509.00 Internally Generated Revenue 29. The expected total receipts from internally generated revenue in fiscal year 2013 Budget is a little overN11 billion. This is made up of Pay As You Earn (PAYE) of N9.877 billion and Direct Assessment of N887 million. Other IGR sources N8.948 million as Capital Gains; N173.825 million as Sales of Motor Vehicle plate numbers and registration. On the whole we expect to generate the sum of N122.666 million from Fines and Fees. Our expectation is that IGR will constitute a little over 8 percent of total revenue in 2013.

Federation Account: 30. During the year 2013 Budget, revenue from the Federation Account is projected at N59.250 billion or 54 per cent of total expected revenue during the year. This is in addition to N10.85 billion expected from VAT. NEXT PAGE

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Other Receipts/Revenue: 31. Expected revenue from other sources, which include capital receipts, budget augmentation, subsidy saving and revenues from institutions and boards, is N23.5 billion.

Expenditure Estimates for Year 2013 Budget 32. Mr. Speaker, Honourable Members, the total State Government expenditure estimates for year 2013 is N130,992,126,509.00. This is made up of personnel cost estimates of N39,880,800,926.00 or 30.45% of the total proposed budget, while total expected Overhead costs is N22,565,706,302.00 or 17.23% of the total proposed budget.

33. Mr. Speaker, Honourable Members, our total budgetary provision for personnel emolument only marginally increased from N39.408 billion in 2012 to N39.880 billion in 2013. This marginal increase, not withstanding recent employment into the State Civil Service, is because of Government’s effort to cap pay roll. Actual increases in emoluments in 2013 can be noticed in the following institutions: Akperan Orshi College of Agriculture with N1.193 billion; High Court of Justice with N1.094 billion; Benue State Polytechnic with N1.441 billion; College of Education, Katsina-Ala with N1.969 billion; College of Education Oju with N1.897 billion; Teaching Service Board with N10.574 billion; Benue State University with N3.853 billion; College of Health Sciences with N1.369 billion; Hospitals Management Board with N2.941 billion; and University Teaching Hospital with N1.705 billion.

34. In addition, there are increases in the costs in the Bureau of Pensions to the tune of N2.589 billion, to account for pensions and gratuity. However, Mr. Speaker, we are seeing considerable increases in the costs of pension and gratuity payments as a result of increased number of retirements. A lot of the civil servants employed in 1976/ 1977 after the creation of our State are generally retiring because they have reached the mandatory period of retirement.

35. Provision for overheads has also grown from N19.274 billion in 2012 to N22.565 billion in 2013 fiscal year, which is a N3.291 billion increase. This is as a result of new and increased demands for overheads

by MDAs. Specifically there are increases in the areas of travels and transport; allocation to counterpart funded programmes, and additional running costs, which include purchases.

Sectoral Highlights 36. The 2013 budget has a total capital provision of N68,545,619,281.

Highlights of sectoral provisions on recurrent and capital items include: a.

Administration Total allocation to the sector is N13,660,699,568 Highlights of the sector include: Bureau of Pensions N2,618,087,850 Ministry of Information and Orientation N1,378,451,060 Office of the Head of Service N1,023,156,610 b.

Economic Sector Total allocation is N67,125,028,150 Highlights include: Ministry of Works and Transport N23,205,688,256 Ministry of Water Resources and Environment N9,989,559,426 Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources N6,021,740,000 c.

Law and Justice This has a total allocation of N3,313,208,180 Highlights include: High Court of Justice N 1,733,720,000 Ministry of Justice N 1,215,781,990 Customary Court of Appeal N 184,348,000

d.

Social Sector This sector has a total allocation of N 43,774,361,011 Highlights include: Education N 29,316,406,410 Health N 10,387,964,791 Youth and Sports N 1,700,692,280 Women Affairs N 422,083,360 37. Provision for capital budget 2013 is largely made up of on-going projects. In addition, it is composed of new projects in Ministries of Youth and Sports; Agriculture and Natural Resources; Housing and Urban Development; Water Resources and Environment; Works and Transport; Commerce and Industries; and Rural Development and Cooperatives.

38. It is important to note that actual capital expenditure in 2012 dwindled and had continued to dwindle over the years on account of continuous growth in recurrent expenditure. This invariably has affected government’s ability to deliver on the set objectives of capital development and its ability to reduce current infrastructure deficit in various sectors in the State.

Fiscal Risk and Outlook for 2013 Fiscal Year 39. The major fiscal risk and outlook for 2013 Fiscal year is the weakening budget management process on the part of all MDAs which is continuously affecting the full realisation of complimentary projects across the State. A major concern is the amount of uncompleted projects that are in government’s portfolio. The challenge and risk to other projects is the fact that public funds are becoming thinly spread and in a sense unproductive.

40. Government’s expected development expenditure over the planned fiscal period of 2013 would require both improved internally generated revenue with sustained FAAC receipts. But more importantly there must be concerted efforts at reining in cost overloads; ensuring that costs are incurred on only those activities that are critical to set objectives of the administration’s development blue print—Our Benue, Our Future.

However, through efficient management of our resources, and reasonable projects government should limit its exposure to fiscal challenges.

Conclusion 41. Mr Speaker, Honourable Members of the Benue State House of Assembly, fellow citizens of our dear State, this budget proposal seeks to continue to lay a solid infrastructure foundation for growth enhancement and human capital development in our State. It also represents the continued commitment of our administration to Our Benue Our Future; and never to relent in growing every inch of Benue State, and to ensure that the State plays its rightful role in the affairs of our great country— Nigeria.

42. Again I have presented a budget that gives demonstrable concern for the welfare of every citizen of the State. We have emphasised and prioritised our areas of comparative advantages as well as focused on infrastructure, agriculture, education, health and security.

43. I must not fail to express my deep appreciation of the good working relationship with the House of Assembly and your continued contribution and cooperation in the discharge of the responsibilities of Government.

Indeed, the House has continually demonstrated that she is a partner in development and an integral part of the administration.

44. To the good people of Benue State I must restate my commitment to the development and transformation of our State, where every lawabiding citizen shall prosper. Mr. Speaker, Honourable members, let me conclude by wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

45.

I thank You. NEXT PAGE

THE NATION THURSDAY DECEMBER 27, 2012

NEWS

59

FOREIGN

Clark: pay oil revenue to communities From Shola O’Neil, Warri

S

OUTHSOUTH leader and former Minister of Information Chief Edwin Clark has called for a direct allocation of the 13 per cent derivation fund to oil communities.

The Ijaw leader said the demand became imperative because allocation of funds through states since the adoption of the present sharing formula has not benefited the host communities.

He said this when leaders of the oil producing communities visited him yesterday.

Clark said over N7.282 trillion released to states in the past 13 years have not benefited the oil-bearing communities.

He insisted that only a direct allocation of oil fund through an administrative committee could guarantee rapid transformation of the deprived and neglected oil producing communities.

The delegation was led by Chief Wellington Okirika and comprised representatives of Ondo, Edo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers and Akwa Ibom communities.

Clark said: “The Federal Government should stop paying the 13 per cent derivation fund through the states.

“The provision in the 1999 Constitution is clear. Thirteen per cent derivation fund stands on its own. It is not part of any consolidated revenue of any tier of government, nor part of any state joint local government account. Thirteen per cent derivation fund should then be treated on its own.

“The Federal Government should pay 13 per cent fund by administrative arrangement, as in the case of fund from fuel subsidy being managed through the committee headed by Dr. Christopher Kolade.”

He further asserted that Section 162 (2) of the 1999 Constitution is specific about the owners of 13 derivation fund.

“The fund is for oil producing communities who are the source of derivation as the basis of derivation principle in the 1999 Constitution.”

He advised the Federal Government to constitute a National Derivation Committee on 13 per cent fund with State Implementation Committees as the best option to solve the problem.

Morsi calls for national dialogue

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RESIDENT Mohammed Morsi has congratulated Egyptians for endorsing a new constitution and urged all parties to join him in a national dialogue.

In a TV address to the nation, Morsi said the economy was a priority and that changes to the cabinet would be made if necessary.

Some 63% backed the constitution in the controversial referendum.

But opponents say the document is too Islamist and betrays the revolution that overthrew Hosni Mubarak.

In his first address to the nation since he signed the new constitution into law, Morsi said the people had chosen it “with their own free will” in a referendum that was “totally transparent and supervised by the judi-

•Hails constitution ciary and monitored by NGOs”.

The president said the passing of the constitution meant Egypt could now move to a new stage that should bring security and stability for the people.

He said the economy was the priority - and he was planning a package of incentives for investors.

“I will deploy all my efforts to boost the Egyptian economy, which faces enormous challenges but has also big opportunities for growth, and I will make all the changes necessary for this task,” he said.

On Wednesday, the Egyptian pound hit an eight-year low against the dollar, amid fears the government will

not be able to implement much-needed tax rises and spending cuts.

Credit agency Standard & Poor’s cut Egypt’s long-term rating to “B-” on Monday amid the uncertainty.

Morsi said he accepted there were many people who were opposed to the constitution.

But he said he welcomed those who had said “no” as well as those who had said “yes”, and that Egypt would not return to a time “when there was only one opinion”.

However, he condemned those who had resorted to violence.

Morsi said a national dialogue was now a necessity for the challenges ahead and

he called on all political parties to participate.

He admitted mistakes had been made but insisted he would never make a decision except in the interests of the country.

Turnout in the referendum was 32.9% of Egypt’s 52 million voters.

The result was announced on Tuesday and parliamentary elections must now take place within two months.

Opponents of the constitution accuse the president, who belongs to the Muslim Brotherhood, of pushing through a text that favours Islamists and does not sufficiently protect the rights of women or Christians.

Egypt has recently seen large demonstrations by both critics and supporters of the constitution, which have occasionally turned violent.

Children, carnivals light up Calabar From Nicholas Kalu, Calabar

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HE streets of Calabar yesterday came alive with colour and excitement as children and cultural carnivals set the tone for the high point of the 32-day Calabar Festival.

The children’s event was sponsored by Dangote, and comprises competing bands participating for various prizes.

The competing bands are Bayside (blue), Seagull (red), Master Blaster (orange), Passion Four (green), and Freedom (yellow).

The carnival also showcased the rich heritage of various Nigerian cultures.

The highpoint of the festivities, which is the Carnival Calabar, kicks off today.

There would also be a special appearance by a Brazilian carnival band, known as the Vai Vai Samba Band.

JTF raids illegal oil depot

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HE Joint Task Force (JTF), codenamed Operation Pulo Shield 01, on Christmas Day raided an illegal oil depot.

It destroyed 8,000 drums of diesel in Anantigha in Calabar South, Cross River State.

The discovery of the illegal depot was made on Christmas Eve, following intelligence gathering by the Army, the Public Relations Officer of the 13 Brigade Capt Joseph James said.

In the raid whicht was led

by Major Abdulmaleek Mohammed of the 13 Brigade, six persons were arrested.

A serving Assistant Superintendent of Police, whose name he did not want give, was allegedly one of those behind the illegal bunkering.

“Following a tip-off, the Commander of the 13 Brigade, Brig Gen Shehu Yusuf immediately ordered that the JTF raid the depot which is located at a hideout, off Mesembe Avenue in the Anantigha area and very close to the headquarters of the Calabar South Local Government.

“As you can see, there are nearly 8,000 drums of

From Nicholas Kalu, Calabar

fuel and diesel well arranged here.

“You can also see how they have expertly dredged this canal to enable these boats bring in these products from wherever.

“It appears that this illegal bunkering business has been on for some time now before this intelligence report came in.

“We’re still investigating to unravel possible connections and where they get these products from.

“We have picked up six men, among whom is a serving Assistant Superintendent of Police, who are in the custody of the military police at the Brigade but we are going to hand them over to the Nigerian Civil Defence and Security Service,” James said.

The JTF, in company of reporters, loaded the drums at a site in Ikang, Bakassi Local Government, were confiscated illegal bunkering products are burnt.

On why they do not hand over the diesel to the government, Capt James said they have the mandate to burn them.

• Abe (front, central) and his cabinet members step down for a photo session after their first cabinet meeting at the Prime Minister's official residence in Tokyo...yesterday.

PHOTO: AFP

Japanese PM unveils cabinet

J

APAN’s new Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has unveiled his cabinet as he begins the task of economic revitalisation.

The cabinet was named shortly after parliament voted for Abe as PM, following his party’s emphatic poll victory earlier this month.

The Liberal Democratic Party and its coalition partner have a two-thirds majority in the lower house.

Abe vowed “bold” economic policies to tackle deflation and said he would strengthen ties with the United States.

Abe, who was also PM in 2006-07, chose another former premier, Taro Aso, for the key role of finance minister.

Analysts say the cabinet includes a number of Abe’s

THE NEW CABINET •Taro Aso - Finance Minister and DeputyPrime Minister •Fumio Kishida - Foreign Minister •Yoshihide Suga - Chief Cabinet Secretary •Akira Amari - Minister Economic Revitalisation Portfolio •Itsunori Onodera - Defence Minister •Nobuteru Ishihara - Nuclear Crisis Minister •Toshimitsu Motegi - Trade Minister close allies as he eyes the task of pulling Japan out of a prolonged economic slump.

Abe told a news conference in Tokyo: “With the strength of my entire cabinet, I will implement bold monetary policy, flexible fiscal policy and a growth strategy that encourages private investment, and with these three policy pillars, achieve results.”

He also said he would step up Japan’s alliance with the United States.

The former trade and indus-

try minister, Akira Amari, has been named as minister for economic revival and veteran Toshimitsu Motegi was chosen for the post of trade minister.

Some reports say he will be put in charge of energy policy in the aftermath of last year’s Fukushima nuclear disaster.

Abe is seen as a hawkish, right-of-centre leader. His previous term in office ended ignominiously amid falling popularity. He re-

signed on grounds of ill health.

But he returns to power at a critical moment and is Japan’s seventh premier in six years.

The grandson of a former prime minister and son of an ex-foreign minister, Abe, 58, has pledged to take a tough line in a territorial row with China.

China has urged the new government to take “practical steps” to deal with the dispute over islands in the East China Sea. Abe has also called for Japan’s pacifist constitution to be revised and patriotic sentiment nurtured.

The LDP crushed the governing Democratic Party (DPJ) in the 16 December poll. DPJ leader Yoshihiko Noda stepped down shortly afterwards.

Mandela discharged from hospital

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HE former South African president, Nelson Mandela, has been discharged from hospital, the South African presidency says.

Mandela will continue to receive treatment at his home in Johannesburg until he has fully recovered, according to a statement from

President Jacob Zuma’s office.

Mandela, 94, was admitted to hospital 18 days ago.

He was treated for a lung infection and gallstones His wife, Graca Machel, and President Zuma visited him on Christmas Day and said he was in good spirits.

Afterwards, Zuma said

doctors were happy with the progress Mandela had made.

In his statement on Sunday, he thanked South Afri-

cans for the messages of good wishes they had sent and asked that Mandela be allowed continued privacy to complete his recovery.

TODAY IN HISTORY 1960: France explodes third atomic bomb The French move a step closer to developing a compact nuclear bomb after a third test in the Sahara desert

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

60

CITYBEATS

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

Foundation hosts annual TV show THE annual TV show of Change A Life Foundation will feature Governor Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State.

It is billed for broadcast on January 1.

The show, according to a statement, will also feature top celebrities as guests, exmodel and blogger, Linda Ikeji; young author, Chibundu Onuzo; musician, Emmanuel Bezhiwa Idakula, a.k.a Bez; and entertainer, David Adeleke, a.k.a Davido.

The one-hour live broadcast on the NTA Network, the group said, would be co-

hosted by ace broadcaster and producer, Funmi Iyanda and upcoming presenter, Ebuka Obi-Uchendu.

The Foundation's mission, the the statement said, is to act as a bridge between people with potential, who are in need, and people, agencies and organisations that have the capacity and are willing to help people.

It was founded by Funmi Iyanda in 2002 and has affected the lives of children and their families through scholarships, healthcare, counselling and microfinance intervention programmes.

FRSC cautions drivers on speed limit COMMANDER of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Lagos State, Mr. Nseobong Akpabio has advised truck drivers to adhere strictly to speed limit to avert crashes.

Akpabio spoke at the Truck Safety Campaign and distribution of 500 retroactive tapes on Trucks organised by Arrive Alive Road Safety Initiative in conjunction with the FRSC, Road Safety Coalition and Road Without Borders at the Tech Oil Truck Park, Kirikiri, Lagos.

The forum brought together over 50 truck drivers within Kirikiri, Lagos. Top on the agenda were drivers' licenses, use of retroactive tapes

By Adeola Ogunlade

and medical tests.

Over 3, 500 people die daily from road mishaps, adding that 500 of them are children and women. He said the deaths were caused by driving without adhering to speed limit and nonrecognition of the right of other road users.

He said the intervention effort would only be effective when motorists change their attitude when driving.

Akpabio said: "Careless attitude of road users in Nigeria is a major challenge in the safety of our roads, which needs to be addressed in the interest of Nigerians, most especially today's chil-

LOSS OF CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY This is to inform the general public of the loss of certificate of occupancy ( C of O) number BP 3872 issued by Benue State Government .

The said Certificate of Occupancy belong to late Samuel Iyorkar ,and all effort to locate it probe abortive.

If found please contact Barr. Christoher Terfa Iyorkar on phone number 07033337479 . Benue State Ministry of lands and survey and general public take note

•Picnickers revelling in the mood of Christmas at the Heritage Park,Oshodi,Lagos...yesterday PHOTO: NIYI ADENIRAN

Lagos generates 10,000 tonnes of waste daily, says LAWMA

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HE Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) evacuates 10,000 tonnes of refuse daily, its Managing Director, Mr Ola Oresanya said yesterday.

He said given the cosmopolitan nature of the state, it is expected that large volumes of waste would be generated by the people regularly.

Oresanya identified indiscriminate dumping of refuse as a major challenge to the agency in the outgoing year. ``In Lagos we generate daily average of about 10,000 metric tonnes. And you know what 1,000 tonnes looks like; 1,000 tonnes will fill 100 trailers. The core challenge here is just the habit of the people," he said.

The public, he said, had the habit of dumping wastes in u n a u t h o r i s e d areas.``Though the habit is reducing, but it's a major one and we are addressing it,'' he said.

On commercial drivers having waste bins in their vehicles, Oresanya said the

Sanitation: Lagos shelves restriction THERE will be no restriction of movement during Saturday’s environmental sanitation in Lagos State, the Commissioner for the Environment, Mr. Tunji Bello said yesterday.

The gesture will allow free flow of traffic for holiday makers during the Yuletide.

A statement by the spokesman of the Ministry, Mr. Fola Adeyemi urged residents to ensure that the Yuletide is celebrated in a clean environment, reminding them that "cleanliness is next to Godliness."

Bello, urged Lagosians to clean up their environment irrespective of the no-restriction order.

The commissioner urged residents to sort policy has not improved hygiene in Lagos. ``I don't see any relevance with waste bins in vehicles and public hygiene. If you have a waste bin in the bus and I am sitting at the back, do I throw waste over the head of the people before me into the bin? ``What we tell the transport workers is to make sure that when they get to their garage, they sweep their vehicles and we have bins in garages where they put these

and bag their wastes for easy disposal.

According to him, officials of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) and operators of the Private Sector Participation (PSP) have been mobilised to collect wastes from residents and take to designated dumpsites.

LAWMA, he said, would deploy its men and equipment to ensure quick evacuation of wastes generated during the festive period.

Bello said: "We should consolidate on the gains of a clean city, which we have all worked hard to attain, and desist from dumping wastes into canals and drainage as the consequences of massive flooding experienced across the nation is enough warning to discourage us from dumping into drains and canals."

things. And if you have a car, you can put wastes in your carpet and once you get to where you are going, you clean it up,'' he said.

LAWMA, Oresanya said, would soon roll out 30,000 new roller bins to enhance wastes evacuation.

The roller bins, he said, would be given to residents who pay land use charges. ``Residents who already have the bins will not be considered because this is a revolving system. As people

pay the land use charge, they get one waste bin free and the charge is ploughed back to buy more bins for distribution to other areas,'' he said.

The ban on cart pushers, he said, is still in force, noting that their activities cannot be eradicated totally in some areas.

He said the agency was making efforts to ensure that more Private Sector Participation (PSP) operators are licensed to service more locations.

Fashola advocates attitudinal change

L

AGOS State Governor Babatunde Fashola has advocated change in attitude for things to be better in the country. Hosting members of the Island Club, Onikan, Lagos on Monday night, Fashola said the challenges facing the nation border on the choices people make daily.

He said there was nothing wrong with the constitution, adding that it is the people that make the constitution and not the other way round.

Fashola said: "I think that with the right values, we can succeed even with the worst constitution. The Constitution can only be as good as what we put into it."

He cited examples of na-

tions across the world which have advanced and grown as a result of adherence to law and order. "I believe that the dreams we aspire to as a people and as a country cannot be delivered to us by anybody. We must want it hard enough to begin to act to earn it.

"Law and order must be our gold standard. No revolution will bring a better life to us either, because I have heard the various calls for revolution. But the revolution we need is in our hearts.

No leader can also force us to do that unless we are persuaded that it is necessary and I believe it is necessary," he said.

Fashola said Nigerians must decide what they want and work hard to achieve it,

adding that the time has come to replace fingerpointing and blame trading with "individual; family; community; state and national action to change things that are not acceptable.

"Sometimes, I struggle to understand where we want to go. But in spite of those struggles, I am clear in my mind what kind of society I want to live, grow old and die in. That is clear to me. In my lifetime, I want to see a reliable electricity power supply in Nigeria. It is not just praying about it. It is about talking about it and doing something about it", he said.

He said his administration did not only produce transformers and downstream

electrical equipment to take advantage of the distribution aspect of the Federal Government’s Power Reform when it comes on stream, but built an Independent Power Project to supply constant electricity to some health and Judiciary institutions on Lagos Island.

The governor highlighted other steps taken to better the lives of Lagosians as elevating Gbagada General Hospital to an annex of the State's University Teaching Hospital to serve as Cardiac and Renal Centre, Kidney Centre and Burns Unit; the construction of light rail to improve transportation and improvement in security through the establishment of Security Trust Fund, among others.

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

61

NEWS

North’s governors condemn ‘Xmas Eve attacks

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•The widow of Lieutenant Adeyemi Sowole (who died in a Helicopter crash in Bayelsa State last weekend), Eniola with her baby, Teniola (second right) and member of their family at a service of song for the Naval officer at the Naval Air Station, Navy Town, Ojoo, Lagos...yesterday PHOTO: DAVID ADEJO

Tussle on Olofa stool goes to Appeal Court

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HE tussle over the Olofa of Offa stool has shifted to the Appeal Court sitting in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital.

A High Court sitting in Offa had, in July, dismissed a suit filed by Alhaji Sheu Oyeniyi, the Magaji of the Olugbense ruling house, seeking to invalidate the kingship of the current Olofa of Offa, Alhaji Mufutau Gbadamosi, the Esuwoye II of Anilelerin ruling house.

In the appeal filed on December 20, counsel to the appellants/claimants, John Olusola Baiyeshea (SAN), prayed the court to set aside the judgment of the High Court, which was in favour of Oba Gbadamosi.

Baiyeshea averred that “the trial judge wrongly rejected Exhibit ‘G’ in evidence”.

He added: “It is the original copy of the Kwara State Government press statement of 1969 informing the public and the world that the chieftaincy crisis in Offa was resolved by the government which recognised two rul-

From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

ing houses in Offa: the Olugbense and the Anilelerin ruling houses and established rotational chieftaincy in Offa between the two ruling houses.

“A combination of credible, cogent, concrete and strong oral and documentary evidence and exhibits presented by the claimants/appellants are strong enough to be relied upon to give judgment in favour of the claimants. The purported appointment of Alhaji Gbadamosi (fifth respondent) is liable to be nullified, and the second claimant/appellant, Prince Abdulrauf Adegboyega Keji, is entitled to be declared and installed as the Olofa of Offa.

“The principle, notion and doctrine of fairness, justice, equity and estoppel are applicable in favour of the appellants in this case in determining the right of the ruling house to present the candidate (Prince Keji) and not the current Olofa to fill the vacancy in the stool of Olofa created by the death of the im-

mediate past Olofa of Offa in 2010 from the same Anilelerin ruling house as the fifth respondent.

“Your lordships are urged to give judgment in favour of the appellants accordingly and order that the second appellant be installed by the state government as the Olofa of Offa forthwith.

Alhaji Gbadamosi’s appointment/installation ought to be nullified and an order of perpetual injunction be made to restrain him from further parading himself as the Olofa of Offa.”

The senior lawyer propped up some issues for their lordships’ determination.

They include: “Whether the learned trial judge was/is right in holding that Exhibit ‘G’, though an original copy of a public document, must be certified to be admissible in evidence, thereby refusing to attach any weight thereto; “Whether the learned trial judge was/is right in holding that the newspa-

pers (which contain evidence of rotational chieftaincy in Offa) were wrongly admitted in evidence and that the exhibits are not worthy of being accorded any weight and expunging them from record; “Whether there is evidence on record to show or prove that the Olofa stool is rotational between the Olugbense and Anilelerin ruling houses and that it was/ is the turn of the claimants/ appellants, the Olugbense ruling house, in 2010 to present the candidate to fill the vacancy created in the stool by the death of the immediate past Olofa of Offa from the Anilelerin ruling house; and “Whether the learned trial judge rightly rejected the notion, principle and doctrine of fairness, justice, equity and estoppel in determining the right of the appellants to present the candidate to fill the vacancy in the stool created by the death of the immediate past Olofa of Offa in 2010 from the rival Anilelerin ruling house.”

Kidnapped Frenchman’s wife calls for his release

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HE wife of a kidnapped Frenchman in Nigeria yesterday raised the alarm over his health.

Mrs Anne-Marie Collomp said her husband, 61-year-old Francis Collomp, who was kidnapped in Katsina last week, needs to take his medicine daily.

“My husband underwent a triple bypass 12 years ago.

From Jide Orintunsin, Minna

He needs to take his medication everyday. This is what worries me the most,” she said.

The agitated wife said she believed her husband was not the target of the abductors who she said intended to abduct two other Frenchmen.

Mrs. Collomp told the French News Agency (AFP)

that her husband was not supposed to work in December.

She said: “But since we have no children, he went (there) to replace two Frenchmen; fathers who were due to go home for the Christmas and New Year holidays.

“When the kidnappers went inside (the home), they asked: ‘Where are the Frenchmen?’ They only

Gombe communitys’ Emir of Dukku dies at 91

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HE remains of the Emir of Dukku, Alhaji Abdulkadir Rasheed, were on Tuesday interred in Dukku, Gombe State.

Alhaji Bala Mohammed, the Secretary of the Dukku Emirate Council, spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Dukku on Tuesday.

He said the late Rasheed

died at 91, had three wives, 53 children and many grandchildren.

He said the emir died on Monday night at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Gombe, following a protracted illness.

Gombe State Governor Ibrahim Dankwambo and other top government officials attended the funeral.

Other dignitaries at the

prayer included the Emir of Gombe, Alhaji Shehu Abubakar as well as the Emir of Kaltungo, Alhaji Sale Mohammed.

Dankwambo commiserated with the deceased’s family and the people of the state.

He said the country would remember the late emir for his contributions to nation-building.

found my husband.”

Speaking from the couple’s home on the French overseas department of Réunion, Mrs Collomp said her husband “loved Africa and his work”.

She explained that her husband often went to work in Nigeria for four to six months.

Mrs Collomp added: “I am very anxious. I don’t listen to the radio any more nor watch the television. I don’t know what state he is in.

“The Quai d’Orsay (French Foreign Ministry) tells us they’re working on it, that we shouldn’t worry. But we live far away and we still have no news.”

On Sunday, Ansaru, a radical group with suspected links to Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (Aqim), claimed responsibility for the kidnap.

It cited France’s support for a military intervention to drive out Islamists in northern Mali as a reason.

ORTHERN States’ Governors’ Forum (NSGF) yesterday condemned the attacks in parts of the region.

It urged security agencies not to despair in their efforts to restore peace across the country.

Chairman of the forum and Niger State Governor Babangida Aliyu yesterday reacted to an alleged attack on the Evangelical Church of West Africa (ECWA) in Piri, Potiskum Local Government of Yobe State, on Christmas Eve. In a statement in Minna, the state capital, by his Chief Press Secretary, Mallam Danladi Ndayebo, the governor said: “The forum is deeply pained by the

From Jide Orintunsin, Minna

fact that the perpetrators chose a holy day (Christmas) to carry out such a dastardly act, which left scores of worshippers dead and many others injured.”

Aliyu advised security agents not to be discouraged by the activities of terrorists.

He said the nation would remain grateful to the military and other security agencies for their relentless war against terror.

The NSGF chairman restated the commitment of the forum to work with the Federal Government to resolve the security challenges confronting the nation.

STF hails religious leaders for peaceful ‘Xmas

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HE Special Task Force (STF) on Jos crises, code-named Operation Safe Haven, has hailed Plateau residents for ensuring peaceful Christmas celebrations.

There was no breach of the peace in Jos, the state capital, and its environs, during the Christmas celebrations.

Christians held services without any report of violence.

Few days to the Christmas, security agencies had warned the residents to be vigilant and report suspicious movements to them.

There was tight security in Jos yesterday as the residents of the city celebrated Boxing Day. In a statement in Jos by its Media Officer, Salisu Mustapha, the STF said: “The peaceful conduct within the period was achieved with maximum cooperation of the stakeholders in the state, particularly religious leaders.”

Jos and its environs has been crisis-ridden for over a decade.

From Yusufu Aminu Idegu, Jos

By 6am yesterday, security agents were stationed on major streets, such as Yakubu Gowon Way, Rayfield, Bukuru, Hwolshe, Tudun-Wada, Zarmaganda and Farin Gada.

Also, places such as Dokon Karfe, Abbatoir, Bauchi Road, Rukuba Settlement, AngwanRogo, among others, had fierce-looking security agents monitoring activities.

The STF advised Plateau State residents to report any suspicious movement in their area.

It hinted of introducing additional temporary checkpoints throughout the Yuletide period.

The STF added that vehicular checks would also be intensified.

The statement advised religious leaders to sensitise their followers, particularly the youth, on the need to avoid actions that can upset peaceful Christmas celebration.

13 vehicles burnt in Edo Boxing Day tragedy

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ESIDENTS of M u r t a l a Muhammed Way, near Esigie junction in B e n i n C i t y , E d o State, yesterday ran for their dear lives when a tanker, laden with petroluem products went up in flames.

The t a n k e r allegedly f e l l i n t o a dish a n d spilled its content along the slope which later went into flames.

Some said they heard a loud explosion before the fire erupted.

Thirteen vehicles and four motor-cycles were burnt.

The road where the fuel flowed through was in flames.

Some residents fled

From Osagie Otabor, Benin

their homes. Others packed out their properties.

The number of casualties could not be confirmed as of press time but the charred remains of a man identified as Kingsley (a comm e r c i a l vehicle driver) was lying on the road.

A boy who was seen crying, said the dead victim was his uncle.

A member of the Edo State Fire Service who was putting out the fire, said there were some bodies in the gutter.

He said they were i n f o r m e d of the accident at about 7pm.

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

62

SPORT EXTRA

NPL draws to hold in Kano, January 6

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ARRING any last minute change, the draws for the Nigeria Premier League 2012/2013 season will hold in Kano on January 6th,2013 a top official has announced.

Making this known in a chat, a top official of Kano Pillars enthused that all plans have been concluded to have the draws for the new league season in the pyramid city to kick start the new calendar for

From Tunde Liadi, Owerri the elite division. He confirmed that all the clubs and the NPL officials would arrive Kano on Saturday January 5 -a day before the draws are made.

Speaking on the readiness of Kano state to host the NPL draws, the official disclosed that the state had perfected

plans to host football stakeholders to usher in a new league season.

"We are ready to host the NPL draws. All the necessary arrangements have been made and we are awaiting representatives of clubs, NPL officials and the rest football top brass in the country in the state as from January 5th. The date for arrival of guests while the following day is the draws proper," the official said.

Laloko faults Keshi on Faro Camp, departure date •Suggests more friendlies

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ONFEDERATION of Africa Football (CAF) Instructor Kashimawo Laloko has disclosed that the Thursday departure of the Super Eagles to Faro, Portugal Camp is rather too late for such an important assignment

From Segun Ogunjimi, Abuja like the Africa Cup of Nations the Nigerian side is preparing for.

The veteran coach said the Nigeria Football Federation and the Eagles Chief Coach,

10 titles at stake at 2nd Fashola Wrestlemania

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HE second edition of BRF Wrestlemania 2012 started yesterday (Wednesday) at the Molade Okoya Thomas Indoor Sports Hall of the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.

The tournament put together to honour the Governor of Lagos State, Babatunde Raji Fashola is, will feature 32 professional wrestlers across the country and some African countries with 12 officials as technical personnel.

At least 10 titles will be contested for in the tournament which ends on Friday evening.

The titles are Middleweight, Cruiserweight, Light Heavyweight, Heavyweight, Super Heavyweight, Extra Heavyweight, Ladies’ bout, Royal Rumble, Survival Series and Ladders.

Coordinator of the championship, Prince Olarenwaju Mohammed said that the 2nd BRF Wrestlemania is a qualifying tournament to select Nigerian and African wrestlers for next year’s Intercontinental World Wrestling Championship which will take place at three centres in Lagos State.

“The 2012 BRF Wrestlemania is staged to prepare Nigerian and other African wrestlers for the world championship coming up in Lagos next year at yet to be decided three centres in Lagos. The BRF competition will be keenly contested because we want to use it to select the best Africa wrestlers that will fight their counterparts from other continents in next year’s intercontinental competition,” he said.

Some of the Nigerian

By Innocent Amomoh wrestlers competing in the ongoing tourney include Super Haculus, Mr. Rick, Mighty Man, Super King, Super Billy Akasili, Hot Tempo, Afro De Giant, Big Fish and Young Stamina.

Others are Silent Tiger, Young Mike, Hariba Swan, Licence to Kill and Mr. Mafu. Among the ladies wrestlers are Tina Terror, Lady Jess and Lady Bunmi.

From other African countries are Stephane Mba (Cameroon), Mask Terror (Sierra Leone), Big Dog Bite (Cameroon), Hulk Power (Benin Republic) and Noundem Michael from Angola.

Stephen Keshi ought to have concluded plans earlier to send the probable players to Faro well on time to have enough training period before the commencement of the competition scheduled for South Africa next January.

“Personally I disagree with his approach to the game.

With less than a month to the kick off of the Africa Nations Cup I still don't know what Keshi is doing with 24 home based players in camp.

"It is sheer waste of time and funds to gather large number of home based players together in the name of camping when the assembled players are not even the actual players that will prosecute the competition. This is where I disagree with Keshi any way".

EPL RESULTS Everton 2-1 Wigan Fulham 1-1 Southampton Man United 4-3 Newcastle Norwich 0-1 Chelsea Reading 0-0 Swansea Sunderland 1-0 Man City QPR 1-2 West Brom Aston Villa 0-4 Tottenham

Enyimba lines up 4 friendlies

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NYIMBA international FC has earmarked four friendly matches, one for each day between now and Sunday.

The Technical Adviser of the Peoples Elephant, Salisu Yusuf in an interview said that Enyimba arranged those friendly matches to test the might, resolute and the will power of the old and the new players ahead of a very busy season in the NPL. The club has set aside a date with new NNL campaigner, Bolowotan today and other three are slated to follow on Friday, Saturday and Sunday against yet to be identified opponents as the resumption of the NPL draws nearer.

The former Super Eagles' Assistant Coach opined:"We are going to play friendly matches for the remainder of this week.

We will play Bolowotan on Thursday (today) and against other three teams till Sunday. We

From Tunde Liadi, Owerri want to test players we have and see where else is needed to shore up as the league season opener gathers momentum."

He confirmed that all the matches are to place inside the Temperance Hotel at Otta, Ogun State near Lagos.

Enyimba finished 5th last season and will be having their second year hiatus on the continent after another trophy drought last season in the league and Federations Cup.

•Salisu Yusuf

Cruf invites 21 players for Eagles friendly

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ATALONIAN National Team Coach Joan Cruf has invited 21 players made up of nine players from FC Barcelona for the 2 January 2013 friendly match against the Super Eagles. Confirming this to NationSport in Abuja, the Head Coach of the Super Eagles Stephen Keshi said the Catalonia National Team is dominated by the former European Champions League

From Patrick Ngwaogu, Abuja winners. He said that there are players from Espanyol and Rayo Vallecano.

"The players you are going to players like Victor Valdes, Kiko Casilla (Goalkeepers), Joan Capdevila, Carles Puyol, Gerard Pique, Martin Montoya, Jordi Amat, Raul Rodriguez, Jordi Alba, Marc

Bartra, Xavi Hernadez, Joan Verdii, Sergio Busqtets, Sergi Roberto, Victor Sanchez, Sergio Tejera, Sergio Garcia, Bojan Krkic, Jonathan Soriano, Alvano Vazquez, Piti and Cristian Tello". He said that these players played for the best clubs in Europe and will be a good test for his team "If we are able to stand them, we would no doubt do well in the Nations cup" he concluded.

THE NATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

63

NEWS Continued from page 2

tacks could further weaken the ability of citizens to communicate through cellular telephones and the internet.

“Land line telephone communications in Nigeria remain extremely limited. U.S. citizens should attempt to arrange for multiple means of communication during emergencies.

“The situation in the country remains fluid and unpredictable. The U.S. Department of State strongly urges U.S. citizens in Nigeria to consider their own personal security and to keep personal safety in the forefront of their planning.

“U.S. citizens who travel to or reside in Nigeria are strongly advised to enroll in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).

U.S. citizens without internet access may enroll directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.”

US to citizens: don’t visit Bayelsa, Delta, Edo, seven others The Department of State identified Boko Haram as having accounted for attacks in the Northern part.

The document said: “In 2012, Boko Haram claimed responsibility for many attacks, mainly in northern Nigeria.

“Boko Haram is responsible for killing or wounding thousands of people. Multiple Suicide Vehicle-borne Improvised Explosive Devices (SVBIED) targeted churches, government installations, educational institutions, and entertainment venues in Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano, Plateau, Taraba, and Yobe states.

“On October 1, 2012, more than 50 students were killed in attacks in Adamawa State.

Several drinking establishments were attacked in Bauchi, Taraba, and Kaduna in

September and October 2012.

Churches were targeted in Bauchi, Kaduna, and Kogi in July and August 2012.

“There were also attacks against police stations and markets in Sokoto in July 2012.

From July 6 to 8, sectarian violence claimed over 100 lives in the Jos metropolitan area and villages in Plateau State. In July, an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) exploded in the parking lot of an Abuja shopping center, and in June, an IED exploded outside a nightclub in Abuja. The June 17, 2012, attacks on three churches in the state of Kaduna led to violence throughout the state.

“At least 10 people were killed and an additional 78 injured in the ensuing riots, as groups barricaded roads, burned mosques, and used machetes to attack and kill.”

Govt must dialogue with Boko Haram, says senator Continued from page 2

Government is, when a situation like this arises anywhere in the world, you cannot fight and defeat this kind of thing by force, so, dialogue, I believe, is the best solution. Yes, they (Boko Haram) are faceless but I believe there must be a way, if government is totally committed to finding a away out.

“We can find a way really, to help dialogue with this group; after all, they are all Nigerians at least, as far as we know; even if there are foreigners, but obviously, the vast majority of them (sect members) must be Nigerians. The fundamental thing is any-

where you see this kind of thing rearing its ugly head, it is a product of inequality and injustice. These are fundamental issues, which every country should really embrace in order to have a permanent peace.

“When you go to the Northeast geopolitical zone, you’ll know, nobody need to tell you that this is the most neglected, the most marginalised part of this country as of today. Of course, all zones have at one time or another complained about marginalisation, but for the current situation we’re in now, the Northeast is terribly neglected, marginalise and

nearly completely abandoned.

Senator Ibrahim again denied having any contact with the group. He said: “I don’t know them. I don’t know anybody who knows the Boko Haram physically, and as you’ve rightly said, they are not even in one group; they seem to be divided. So, whichever group or faction that has decided that there should be dialogue in Saudi Arabia, what I’m saying is that through the Saudi Arabian government, the Federal Government can get to these people; it may not be direct as they’ve refused to come out for Nigerians and Nigeria’s government to know them.”

Fury of fire in Lagos Continued from page 2

to stop the fire from spreading.

Folawiyo and Modupe houses were demolished at 4:00 p.m. Some others were in the process of being pulled down as the agencies continued to try to bring the inferno under control.

National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA)’s information officer, Mr. Ibrahim Farinloye, said: “We were told a 15-year-old boy whose parents have been rushed to the hospital was trapped in the building. So, we have recovered one body, although I cannot say for sure if that is the boy because the body recovered was burnt beyond recognition.

“We heard about the explosion around 9am, but had to confirm because we have been receiving false alarm since yesterday.

“So, when we confirmed this situation, we quickly called the federal and state fire services whose men responded promptly.

‘Then, those of us who are on ‘Ember month’ campaign against road accidents had to quickly divert to this place and so far we have been able to cordon off the area.

“About 40 injured persons have been treated. The Red Cross attended to the minor cases and discharged them while about 30 persons with serious injuries were taken to the general hospital for adequate care.”

The public enlightenment officer of Lagos State Fire Service, Mr. Sanwo Lawrence,

said the major challenge was crowd control. He maintained that the fire had been stopped from escalating.

He said: “The explosives have caused the escalation of the fire.

I can say we have made progress because initially, nobody could access the place because of the rapidity of the fire.

“But now, we have been able to control the fire to the point where it started. What we are doing now is called damping down, to avoid the fire from spreading to adjacent buildings.

“But our major challenge has been crowd control. Imagine our people; I don’t know what they are doing here.

“This is an emergency, a hazard that can even claim their lives and they are here watching.

“What are they looking at?

You can see cracks from most of these buildings. They can just collapse and injure people.

“We have tried to cordon off the area but despite that, the people have resisted.”

He spoke at about 3:20pm.

In an update by its spokesman Alhaji Yushau Shuaib the The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) said: “The explosion which further triggered fire outbreaks within the neighboring environments occurred from a building suspected to be a warehouse for storage of electrical items at Jankara Market by Adeniji Adele in Lagos Island Local Government Council of Lagos State.

“Although the Search and Rescue Officers had a hectic time to reach the densely populated area due to heavy traffic

and crowds, other response agencies and volunteers mobilised were able to control the fire incidents with support from residents.

“So far, one human body that was burnt beyond recognition had been recovered from the rubble of the exploded area.

“The recovery was made when search and rescue officers were working at the scene.

“The fire incident was triggered by suspected fireworks stored in a presumed warehouse. At least 15 people were treated for injuries sustained mostly from stampede during the explosion.

“The explosion was not suspected to be a deliberate attack to cause confusion as security agencies have commenced their investigations.”

Victims recount explosion Continued from page 2

Defence Corps (NSCDC), who pleaded no to be named, said he felt dynamites caused the explosion.

According to him, from the particles seen as well as the gravity and rapidity of the fire, it was dynamite and not knockouts.

He said: “Take a look at this picture; is this knockout? This is a dynamite.

“I think the explosion occurred as a result of the heat.

Dynamites and bangers are warehoused in this area.

“We were told that one of the traders wanted to carry a carton of the product but it fell and exploded.

“So far, about 50 casualties have been recorded.”

088

27-12-2012

TODAY IN THE NATION

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2012

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OES Christmas still have its charm?

Despite the huge security blanket thrown around the country, gunmen stormed a church in Yobe State on Christmas Eve, killing the pastor and five others. Christmas Day was bloody in Maiduguri where six Christians were killed at the First Baptist Church. So sad.

The Pope, in his Urbi et Orbi (to the city and to the world) homily, referred to savage acts of terrorism in Nigeria. Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) President Ayo Oritsejafor described it all as bestial.

Every Yuletide brings back memories of those good old days of innocence when one trudged on to church on Sundays, a routine enforced - or encouraged- by some relations who saw it all as a way of instilling some moral lessons in us.

The church in Ado-Ekiti, capital of Ekiti State, was a special structure sitting majestically on a large expanse of land, with its rocky walls and alluring landscape of flourishing green grass and teak trees. The surreal mix of facts and fantasy vividly portrayed by the murals; the quiet ambience of the big hall and the sober demeanour of the Reverend and his assistants all combined to give us the feeling that our prayers would surely reach God. For me, it was one of those small serendipities; mum was a practising Moslem.

But, it was an opportunity to pray for those little things ever craved by a kid – toys, a bicycle and a nice dress at Yuletide.

There is no gainsaying that the tone and pattern of my prayers have since changed. I no longer ask God to give dad some cash so that I could have a bicycle or a new dress. I now pray for peace in Nigeria, for wisdom for our leaders and, above all, for justice. Isn’t injustice at the root of almost all the problems terrorising Nigeria?

As usual, our leaders have made all the admonitions, preaching love and asking Nigerians to embrace unity, shun all acts that oil our engine of ethnicism and embrace the virtues that our Saviour died – and rose - for.

Good. But I often wonder why the responsibility is all ours; never theirs, even as they get all the benefits.

President Goodluck Jonathan has said the government has the capacity to effect changes – many doubt this - and that despite the security challenges, the administration remains focused in its battle to improve the economy.

Should Nigerians believe this?

A few days to the end of the year, the subsidy palaver remains as strong as it was last January. The government is asking for N161billion more for sacrifice to the god of subsidy – a development that many see as prodigal. Why don’t you just recover the illegal payments to all those dubious companies before asking for more cash? Why have filling stations been allowed a strange laissez-

TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM

COMMENT & DEB ATE EBA

GBENGA OMOTOSO

EDITORIAL NOTEBOOK

gbenga.omotoso@thenationonlineng.net

A prayer at ‘Xmas

•THE UNIPORT FOUR:

• Pope Benedict fare to sell petrol at whatever price that catches their fancy? How much will petrol cost next year, if this trend continues, unchecked? These are some of the questions that are being asked by Nigerians.

The President explained at the Christmas Day service that his administration seems to be slow because it needs “to think through things properly, if we are to make a lasting impact”. Is this the case on the Boko Haram front? For how long are Nigerians going to be patient for the government to stop kidnappers who are reaping bountiful harvests, snatching the rich and the poor with the same velocity?

The Primate of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Archbishop Nicholas Okoh, spoke for many Nigerians when he urged the President to find a permanent solution to terrorism and kidnapping, which the man of God ascribed to greed and love of money. Rev Okoh, in my view, should have added that the seemingly debilitated situation of the security agencies is a tonic for those in the devilish trade.

My prayer for our leaders is that they should have a sense of justice. Boko Haram

RIPPLES WORKER KILLS COLLEAGUE OVER N500News

Who do you blame?...I guess it’s the DEVIL as usual

VOL. 7, NO. 2353

‘‘In the outgoing year, Nigerians suffered a lot. They virtually went through hell in the daily pursuit of their means of livelihood. With the epileptic power supply, fuel scarcity and the high cost of goods and services, the fortunes of the common-man further dwindled’ LAWAL OGIENAGBON

‘The Primate of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Archbishop Nicholas Okoh, spoke for many Nigerians when he urged the President to find a permanent solution to terrorism and kidnapping, which the man of God ascribed to greed and love of money’ says its fury stems from the fact that its leader, Mohammed Yusuf, was murdered and that his killers are yet to be punished. In other words, they took up arms against the state because they had the feeling that there were plans to exterminate them. If there had been justice, would Boko Haram have gone berserk? Would it have become a lethal tool – as it is believed in some circles – in the hands of politicians? How much blood will be washed down the river of anger before the sect stops its killing spree?

Except for a few cases of kidnapping and piracy, which are pure criminal enterprises, it’s been a bit quiet in the Niger Delta – thanks to the amnesty programme. There seems to be a sense of some justice – no matter how little – which has seen the militants dropping their guns for training at home and abroad. Imagine if the militancy had been allowed to go on? Just imagine.

If there had been justice, the Niger Delta, being the goose that is laying the golden egg, wouldn’t have needed to agitate for more in the revenue allocation scheme. If there had been good schools, hospitals, roads and houses, there would have been peace. If

HARDBALL

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RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan has once again tried to justify his government’s apparent lack of speed in enunciating and implementing policies. At a Christmas Service held at the Cathedral Church of The Advent, Life Camp, Gwarinpa, Abuja on Tuesday, the president said experience had taught him serious mistakes often accompanied hasty decisions. To him, it was better to approach matters cautiously – in other words, better to be safe than sorry. Very pretty philosophy.

The president had said: “Sometimes, people say this government is slow. Yes, by human thinking, we are slow, but I can say that we are not slow. Government must think things properly before it acts. When you don’t think through things properly, or when you rush, you will make mistakes. It is more difficult to correct errors. You can ask those who build houses. Government will not, because of the perception, begin to rush. But where we are required to act very fast, we will do so, just like we did during the recent flood disasters.”

It must be painful for Jonathan to candidly admit slowness, with all its pejorative connotations. Perhaps, he has never heard of what it means for a president to think on his

If only slow can also be steady feet. Perhaps, too, he assumes that slowness or cautiousness invariably implies correctness. Statesmen, diplomats and great leaders all know that of all the major components of great decisions, slowness is absolutely not one of them. But if that method makes the president happy and guarantees his subjects peaceful life than they would otherwise have if the president rushed his decisions, then perhaps we must support him, and give him a long rope to hang everybody.

But when the president gave the example of his response to the flood disaster that wreaked havoc on many states recently as very fast, it was impossible to indulge his philosophy further. He said the federal government’s response to the floods was fast.

That is certainly not true. It was neither fast nor even satisfactory. The floods began to paralyse parts of the country some three weeks before he travelled to the United States to address the 67th General Assembly of the

there had been no oil spill to destroy aquatic life and farmlands on which the majority pin their hope of survival, there would have been no trouble, most likely not on the huge scale that we experienced.

In Jos, Plateau State, people get killed as if a war is going on. Why do people who have lived together for so many years suddenly become enemies, hacking one another down like animals? I really don’t know, but I’m sure the answer lies somewhere between pure injustice and the gradual descent to the jungle that has been noticed in many places, including the so-called developed world.

Only last week, a young man walked quietly into a school in Connecticut, United States, to shoot dead 26 people, including 20 kids, before turning the gun on himself. Adam Lanza, who was wearing black battle fatigues and a military vest, had earlier killed his own mother. It was the United States’ second deadliest school shooting.

The Jos template is replicated in many places, such as Umuneri and Aguleri, Ezillo and Ezza Ezillo, the Tiv/Idoma clashes in Benue and many others that never hit the headlines.

There are so many issues that make us to ask the question: why God? Is this a fair query? Have we examined our ways? Do our leaders at all levels feel a sense of justice after taking those crucial decisions?

I spent Christmas Day praying not for a dress or a bicycle, as I used to do; I spent the day praying for our leaders. I said: “O Lord, our Saviour, grant our leaders the truth to know: That the positions they occupy are at the behest of the people; that they do us no favour by sitting (or sleeping, as the case may be) in their cozy offices and taking the wrong steps in the right direction; that they may know that the treasury is not theirs to loot; that any illness of theirs should make them spare a thought for our hospitals and not to fly off to Germany; and that they should stop paying lip service to the battle against corruption.

Father in heaven, grant our leaders the truth to know that politics is no do-or-die affair; that they promised to serve and not be served, as the case is now; that they should be modest in their taste, not seeking to live in Buckingham Palace- like mansions when the majority are homeless; that they should not plan to spend billions on food and refreshments in just one year when many go to bed hungry; that leadership demands a high level of sobriety and not revelry; that all men were born equal and are so before the Almighty.

Amen!

And wishing all Editorial Notebook fans a great year ahead.

•For comments, send SMS to 08082036515

•Hardball is not the opinion of the columnist featured above United Nations in late September. When he returned, it took him nearly two weeks before he announced a relief fund of about N17.6bn for the affected states and the setting up of a fundraising committee, and two more weeks to begin his tour of affected states.

In addition, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) had warned in July that flooding was imminent in the country. The government did little to prepare for the looming disaster, and when catastrophe struck, little still was done. Even the president himself acknowledged in his October 9 broadcast that “Over the past few weeks, unprecedented floods have ravaged many parts of our country, rendering tens of thousands of fellow Nigerians homeless and causing massive destruction of properties, farmlands and infrastructure across the country.” How these responses translate to “very fast” is difficult to understand. What is clear is that President Jonathan has conjured philosophical justification for his lack of speed or what he describes as public perception of his slowness. That style soothes him; and though we can see through it, we must live with it. After all, we voted him into office.

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Editor Daily:01-8962807, Marketing: 01-8155547 . Abuja Office: Plot 5, Nanka Close AMAC Commercial Complex, Wuse Zone 3, Abuja. Tel: 07028105302. Port Harcourt Office: 12/14, Njemanze Street, Mile 1, Diobu, PH. 08023595790. WEBSITE: www.thenationonlineng.net E-mail: info@thenationonlineng.net ISSN: 115-5302 Editor: GBENGA OMOTOSO