Sun News - October 2, 2012

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Flood: Anambra gov escapes drowning N150

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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2012 VOL. 7 NO. 2464

We will kill your wives ... Boko Haram tells govt officials •Confirms arrest of spokesman, Abu Qaqa

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Budget impasse: N’Assembly leaders meet Jonathan

Man caught having sex with donkey

I won’t fail Nigeria – Jonathan •We have deviated from founding fathers’ dreams – Mark •Al-Makura calls for sober reflection •Intensify efforts to make country great, Fashola urges •Akpabio calls for rededication Pages 3, 5 & 6 President Goodluck Jonathan, yesterday being assisted by dignitaries to cut the 52nd Independence Anniversary cake at the Forecourt of the Presidential Villa, State House, Abuja PHOTO: BAYO OBISESAN

ONDO GUBER:

N150

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We will kill your wives ... Boko Haram tells govt officials

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Ekiti to ban okada

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2012 VOL. 7 NO. 2464

•Fashola campaigns for Akeredolu •Why I care for women – Mimiko

•Confirms arrest of spokesman, Abu Qaqa

I won’t fail Nigeria – Jonathan •We have deviated from founding fathers’ dreams – Mark ...Akpabio seeks rededication •Intensify efforts to make country great, Fashola urges •Amaechi seeks diversification of economy Pages 3, 5 & 6

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Man caught having sex with donkey

Ogun State Governor, Sen. Ibikunle Amosun being received by Chief Linquit Bisade Biobaku during the third day fidau prayers for Late Dr. Lateef Adegbite at the Ake Palace Square, Abeokuta yesterday. Wth them is the deceased first son, Alhaji Talal Oladipo Adegbite.

PHOTO: WALE OLUFADE

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I won’t fail Nigeria – Jonathan

Pages 3, 5 & 6

Nigeria at 52:

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2012 VOL. 7 NO. 2464

In Uyo, Akpabio calls for rededication

Man caught Budget impasse: having N’Assembly Kalu meets leaders meet Obi of Onitsha, sex with donkey Jonathan Page8 Page 10 Igbo presidency

others

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We must sustain dream of free society – Imoke

Flood: Gov, others escape drowning

...Uduaghan sends SOS to FG as more Delta communities are submerged Page 16 & 9

Gov Obi, SSG, Oseloka Obaze with others wading through the flood

We’ll kill your wives, Boko Haram tells govt officials

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DAILY SUN

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

Tuesday, October 2, 2012, DAILY SUN

SUNG GIRL

Jonathan strengthens Guards Brigade From JULIANA TAIWO-OBALONYE, Abuja

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resident Goodluck Jonathan officially consecrated a newly formed 176 Special Force battalion, to join the existing 177 and 7 battalions of the presidential guards brigade.

He performed the ceremony during the presidential change of guards by Guards Brigade to mark Nigeria’s 52nd independence anniversary.

The guards brigade is a special unit of the military that oversees the security of the President and Aso Rock.

The ceremony took place at the fore-court of the Presidential Villa.

Minister of State for Defence, Erelu Olusola Obada, told State House correspondents that the newly-established 176 battalion was to strengthen the brigade and to make it more effective in response to security challenges in and around the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Obada said the ceremonial presentation of colours to the newly-formed battalion was symbolic and could only be done by the President and the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.

The special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Dr. Reuben Abati, also said the ceremony was special and grand in marking the independence of a nation.

Abati said this year’s anniversary, like that of 2011, was low-keyed to save cost and adequately prepare for the big event of 2014 when the nation would mark 100 years of existence from the amalgamation of 1914. He debunked claims in certain quarters that the event was moved to the Villa for security reasons.

“The anniversary is also low-keyed this year, taking place within the precincts of the State House. President Jonathan has personally responded to the allegation that the event is being held within the State House by making it clear that in 2014, we will have a big event; the centenary of Nigeria’s celebration, since amalgamation.

“A few years ago, we had the 50th anniversary of Nigeria’s independence and that was a big event. The President’s take on this, is that between that 50th year anniversary and the centenary of Nigeria’s amalgamation, we should have low-keyed celebration. Those who are looking for celebration on a grand scale should wait till 2014 when we will have the 100 years of Nigeria’s amalgamation,” he said.

The 52nd anniversary was marked with a ceremonial change of guards by the outgoing and incoming quarter and guard brigade.

There were also parades and military displays by the Nigerian Army Brigade of Guards, inspection of fitness and weapons, a symbolic colour-parade as well as band parade in different military tunes and melody.

The president was assisted by the Chief of Defence Staff, Air Chief Marshal Oluseyi Petinrin, service chiefs and heads of other para-military agencies to release the pigeons, which signified the unfettered peace and harmony of the nation. President Jonathan also signed the anniversary register and cut an anniversary cake baked in national colours.

Present at ceremony were Vice President Namadi Sambo, Senate President David Mark, his deputy, Sen. Ike Ekweremadu, and the Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Hon. Emeka Ihedioha. The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Aloma Mukhtar, led other justices and heads of court to the event.

Also in attendance were former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, ministers, presidential aides, members of the Diplomatic Corps, the business community, representatives of religious leaders and traditional rulers.

In a related development, Akwa Ibom State Government, Obong Godswill Akpabio, called for a real dedication to the values articulated by the nation’s founding fathers.

In a ceremony held at Uyo Township Stadium to mark Nigeria’s 52nd Independence Anniversary, the governor further address his mind to the spate of killings and insecurity in the country.

He said: “ We must liberate our nation from wanton insecurity and toe the path of peace and unity.”

Jonathan

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DAILY SUN

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

DAILY SUN

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IGBO PRESIDENCY: KALU MEETS OBI OF ONITSHA,OTHERS

Former Abia State Gov., Chief Orji Uzor Kalu, being received by Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Obi in his palace, Monday.

Kalu, handing over his lecture note to Prince B B Akpugo, member, PDP’s Board of Trustees (BOT) in Umuahia, Abia State, recently.

Senate President David Mark displaying the Nigerian flag during a church service to mark the 52nd Independence anniversary at St. Mulumba Catholic Church, Apo, Abuja, Monday.

COVER Nigeria @ 52: We shall not fail –Jonathan From JULIANA TAIWO-OBALONYE, Abuja

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resident Goodluck Jonathan yesterday in Abuja gave an assurance that his administration will not fail in ensuring that the citizenry enjoys the dividends of democracy.

The President urged Nigerians to have hope and be steadfast while reiterating his commitment to the anti-corruption war, insisting that it is his government’s top priority. He spoke during the country’s 52nd independence anniversary which was low-keyed This is even as he further assured that the perpetrators of the pension scam will be prosecued. President Jonathan spoke of the progress recorded in some key sectors of the economy as a result of reforms, saying that the results will soon be seen by all. He called on Nigerians to remain steadfast as the country has remained a strong nation, while promising that he will continue to work to strengthen the country’s growth.

He said Nigeria will continue to be a source of pride not just to her citizens, but on the African continent.

“I have no doubt that by the time I address you on our next independence anniversary, many of our reform efforts would have yielded even better results.

“Over the years, several leaders have built on the foundation laid by our founding fathers.

The baton is now in our hands. Let me assure all Nigerians that we shall not fail.

“I am confident that Nigeria will continue to be a source of pride to its citizens; to Africa and the black race and to humanity; a land that is known for progress, freedom, peace and the promotion of human dignity.

“On this special day, I call on every Nigerian to remain steadfast, because our nation is indeed making progress. I call on every Nigerian to rediscover that special spirit that enables us to triumph over every adversity as a people.

“We weathered the storm of the civil war, we have refused to be broken by sectarian crises; we have remained a strong nation. I bring to you today, a message of renewed

•President urges patience, steadfastness hope and faith in the immense possibilities that lie ahead.

He said: “Fellow citizens, I have an unshaken belief in the future of our great country. I consider it a priority and sacred duty to continue to strengthen the bond of unity that holds our nation together and to promote and nourish the creative energies of our people. This is a central objective of our administration’s Transformation Agenda.

“Nigeria, I assure you, will continue to grow from strength to strength. We must continue to work together, confidently and faithfully, to ensure that our country’s potentials are realised to the fullest; that our dreams are translated into reality; and that our goals are achieved.

“Let me reiterate that our administration is committed to the pursuit of fundamental objectives of an open society: the pursuit of freedom, security and prosperity for the Nigerian people, and the rule of law”.

President Jonathan said the country has continued to witness some level of economic improvement even amid global economic downturn.

The Gross Domestic Product (GDP), according to him, has grown by 7.1per cent.

“It is also significant that the GDP growth has been driven largely by the non-oil sector,” he added.

The country, he also said, recorded N8.6 trillion Foreign Direct Investment.

The President also noted that the investment environment has improved drastically, a situation, he said, was responsible for the surge expressed in the manufacturing sector.

According to him, the manufacturing sector received a lift with new companies springing up, thereby boosting the economy.

He said the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) recorded over 200 new members in 2012.

On power, the President said the country has enjoyed some level of improvement which he

also assured will be improved upon.

He also said the country boasts of abundance of gas supply.

The passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB), which is still before the National Assembly, the President also said, will help increase the country’s income and enthrone transparency in the management of resources.

According to him, “our country’s power supply situation is improving gradually. We are successfully implementing a well-integrated power sector reform programme which includes institutional arrangements to facilitate and strengthen private sector-led power generation, transmission and distribution.

“We have also put in place a cost-reflective tariff structure that reduces the cost of power for a majority of electricity consumers. I am pleased with the feedback from across the country, of improvements in power supply.

He also assured that the 2013 budget will be forwarded to the National Assembly soon.

“In the next few days, I shall lay before the National Assembly the 2013 federal budget proposal so that deliberations can commence in earnest on the key policies, programmes and projects that will mark a decisive year for our development and transformation,” he said.

President Jonathan said the government was taking proactive measures to tackle the menace of Boko Haram and other security challenges, notig that the security agencies had been strengthened and this had started to yield result as the country now witness a decline in activities of the terrorist group.

He said: “Fellow Nigerians, in recent times, we have witnessed serious security challenges in parts of our country. We have taken proactive measures to check the menace. This has included constant consultation and collaboration with our neighbours and other friendly nations on issues relating to internal and crossborder security, and the sharing of information on smuggling and illegal dealing in small arms and light weapons.

The President said the war against corruption will remain top priority of his administration.

Citing the pension scam, President Jonathan assured that all those fingered in the fraud will be made to face the law. He vowed that no one will be speared.

He said, “the fight against the scourge of corruption is a top priority of our administration. We are fighting corruption in all facets of our economy, and we are succeeding. We have put an end to several decades of endemic corruption associated with fertilizer and tractor procurement and distribution. We have exposed decades of scam in the management of pensions and fuel subsidy, and ensured that the culprits are being brought to book.

The President, who also spoke on the recent flooding in some parts of the country, said the government is addressing the menace in conjunction with the states and local governments.

He said the Federal Government will assist the states to address the situation and to also forestall future re-occurrence.

He also reiterated that the three tiers of government must work together for the good of the country.

He said, “Fellow Nigerians, our determined efforts on several fronts not-withstanding, our country still faces a number of challenges.

“Those challenges should not deter us. In the last few weeks, for example, many of our communities have been ravaged by floods, resulting in the loss of lives and property, and the displacement of persons.

“I want to reassure all affected Nigerians that I share in their grief, and our administration is taking steps to address these incidents, in collaboration with the states and local governments.

“I have received the interim report of the presidential team that I set up to assess the flooding situation across the country.

“The Federal Government has taken measures to assist the affected states, while considering long-term measures to check future reoccurrence,” the President noted.

6 DAILY SUN Tuesday, October 2, 2012

NEWS ACN urges Nigerians to fight for independence from ‘internal colonialists’

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he Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) has urged Nigerians to gird their loins and fight for their independence from those who have assumed the role of ‘internal colonialists,’ thus, wiping out the gains of the country’s independence from British colonialists in 1960.

The party said in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, on the occasion of the country’s 52nd independence anniversary yesterday that incompetent leadership, bad governance, massive corruption and lack of patriotism by successive administrations had made Nigerians worse today than they were shortly after independence. ‘’A country that offered so much hopes and possibilities for its citizens at independence has today become a land of suffering, insecurity and near hopelessness, no thanks to visionless leaders who have failed to lead a well-endowed nation to harness the talents of its vibrant, energetic and resilient people.

The result is what we have today: a country exhibiting all the characteristics of a failed state,’’ it said.

ACN however urged Nigerians to keep hope alive and to remember that they hold all the aces in securing their independence from the rapacious, thieving and bumbling class of people masquerading as leaders.

Agboola seeks support for FG

By TAJUDEEN ADIGUN

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s Nigerians are marking the 52 anniversary of independence, the Senate Deputy Chief Whip, Senator Hosea Ayoola Agboola, is soliciting cooperation and support of people for the Federal Government to boost the capacity of office holders to deliver the dividends of democracy.

In his independence anniversary message, the Senator, who represents the Oyo North Senatorial District, urged the six geopolitical zones in the country to forge a strong unity against balkanization of the country. He stressed that unity was the only panacea against dismemberment of the country, which could be counter productive.

Agboola remarked that Nigeria as a country deserved the best from the leaders and people, adding that the resolve to give the best possible service at any point in time would make the country enviable in Africa and the world at large.

He noted that the past leaders’ attainment of independence for the country in 1960 must be seen as a worthy achievement.

It was, therefore, a challenge to the present generation of leadership to preserve and enhance the value of the legacy of a free people attained in 1960.

Amaechi to focus on diversifying Rivers economy

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ivers State Governor, Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi has said that his administration would focus on diversifying the state’s economy by refocusing the people of the state on entrepreneurship and setting new goals.

Speaking on the occasion of Nigeria’s 52 independence anniversary celebrations yesterday in Port Harcourt, Governor Amaechi said his administration would also focus on technical training and middle level manpower development.

“Before the end of the year, we would be concluding discussions with a team from Germany that would be handling vocational training for this segment of our population. The idea would be to guarantee that our people at all levels are equipped with the requisite skills to be global players in all segments of the economy.

“What this means is that we have to labour and to work, and work hard, to give reality to our dream of a greater Rivers State and indeed a greater Nigeria,” Amaechi said.

On road rehabilitation, Amaechi said, despite the challenges

We must sustain dream of free, egalitarian society, says Imoke From JUDEX OKORO, Calabar

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s the nation celebrates her 52 independent anniversary, Governor Liyel Imoke of Cross River State has called on present generation of Nigerians and their leaders to sustain the dream of a free and egalitarian society that the founding fathers fought for.

He said as the country looks forward to the centenary of our amalgamation in 2014, it was pertinent to take stock of how far we have come and how much further we can go.

Imoke, who stated this yesterday in Calabar at the event marking the country’s 52nd Independence Anniversary, said we should commemorate this unique day in the annals of our history with great respect and reverence for the sacrifice and struggles of our founding fathers, which marked the end of colonialism.

He insisted that our leaders at all levels must work selflessly to give Nigeria and Nigerians a better chance at competing in an incredibly dynamic and competitive world by providing for their welfare, and creating the right climate for them to attain their potential.

•President Goodluck Jonathan signing the anniversary register during presidential change of guards parade at the Forecourt of the Presidential Villa, Abuja yesterday. Photo: BAYO OBISESAN

Independence Day: Nigeria has deviated from dreams of founding fathers -Mark From ADETUTU FOLASADE-KOYI, Abuja

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enate President, David Mark has urged Nigerians to re-enact the indomitable spirit of the founding fathers who envisaged a united, peaceful and a prosperous nation in 1960 for the nation to make progress.

Senator Mark said this at a special church service to mark Nigeria’s 52nd independence anniversary at St Mulumba’s Catholic Chaplaincy, Apo District, Abuja yesterday.

The Senate president said the nation’s founding fathers craved a country that would be economically and politically strong and a leading force in the continent.

“What went wrong along the line is akin to a deviation of the set goals because, subsequent leaders did not toe the same path. It is time Nigerians, both the leaders and the led agree to reinvent the wheel and redirect our steps in the right path.”

He situated the problems retarding Nigeria’s growth to the tendency to treat symptoms of the disease rather than the cause of the ailment.

Mark stated that the cooperation of all was inevitable because, government and the governed need to be on the same page for progress to

manifest, reiterating that unity, commitment to the ideals of nationhood and love for one another are the essential ingredients for nation building.

Earlier in his homily, the priest, Rev. Father Innocent Jooji called for peace, unity, love and reconciliation

Intensify efforts to make country great -Fashola

By OLUWOLE FAROTIMI

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agos State Governor, Babatunde Fashola yesterday said Nigerians have no choice than to intensify efforts in their quest for nation building.

Fashola who spoke after inspecting parade by voluntary organisations, school children urged Nigerians to continue to drive the nation’s quest for greater tomorrow, despite the current hurdles confronting her.

The governor emphasized that it was the duty of every citizen to ensure that the flame

of patriotism that saw the nation achieve the feat of greatness in the past, adding that concerted efforts was required from Nigerian to make the country great.

“I have no doubts at all that October 1, Nigeria’s Independence Day will be celebrated through the ages and for all time, I believe that whatever misgivings we have as a people, however legitimate our complains may be, we must continue to acknowledge the significance of this day and the tremendous energy and freedom that was unleashed when the Union

Al-Makura calls for sober reflection From ABDULLAHI SHAIBU, Lafia

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overnor Umaru Tanko Almakura of Nasarawa State has called for sober reflection on the state of the nation as Nigeria mark 52 years of independence, saying: “The occasion reminds us of the significance of our liberty, unity, choice, commitment, and self actualization.

Almakura who stressed that Nigeria’s journey to nationhood had been tortuous but eventful, made the remark in Lafia in his speech marking this year’s independence anniversary and 16 years of

among ethnic and religious affiliations in the country.

Father Jooji noted that Nigeria was founded on the basis of peaceful coexistence because: “Our independence was unique. We got it through the unity and resolve of the people without losing lives or shedding blood.”

the creation of the state at Government House Lafia.

“The occasion of independence celebration provides us the opportunity to engage in sober reflection because, at 52, our beloved country Nigeria is still struggling with plethora of development challenges instead of celebrating conquests,” Almakura bemoaned.

The governor who paid a visit to the Lafia Prisons to mark the independence gave state pardon to nine inmates five from Keffi prison, and three and one from Nasarawa and Wamba prisons respectively, with a call on others to see their time in incarceration

as a period of reformation, he also donated a new Hilux Pickup Van and promised to renovate and upgrade the prison facilities in addition to the provision of 300 mattresses.

While appreciating Goveror Almakura’s kind gesture, the Comptroller of Lafia Prisons, Mr. Kunle Sanusi, notified the governor that Lafia prisons had only one functional vehicle used in conveying inmates to the over 60 courts in the state. He appealed for monthly financial aid from the state government and interventions in the areas of drug provision and infrastructure.

Jack was lowered.

“That was mere 52 years ago and although we are a nation of many young people, there is no shortage of adults who were witnesses of that glorious event. If you talk to them today, you will see their eyes sparkle, you will see smiles light up on their faces as the memory of what happened on that day at Race Course in 1960,” he added.

He noted that the last two years since the nation’s Golden Jubilee celebration had been difficult for Nigerians, adding that: “It is those difficulties that continue to propel me to work with members of my team to deliver on the promise of our country’s possibilities.”

Harping on his administration’s stride to provide employment opportunities for the youths who constitute more of the nation’s population he said his administration could only strive to do more in the next 12 months.

He added that his administration had employed 507 graduate teachers to teach in the state’s schools, as well as 300 graduates who were recently engaged in the state health sector and deployed to the primary health care centres across the state, saying both interventions have started yielding positive results.

DAILY SUN Tuesday, October 2, 2012, 7

NEWS Adegbite, a unifying factor –Senator Adamu

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enator Abdullahi Adamu has described the death of Dr. Lateef Adegbite as a great loss, not only to his family and the people of Ogun State, but to Nigeria.

Adamu, who spoke yesterday at the National Assembly in Abuja, noted that the late Adegbite was a good Muslim who worked assiduously alongside other stakeholders to foster unity and understanding between Muslims in Northern and Southern Nigeria, thereby serving as a ‘unifying force’ within the Nigerian Muslim community.

The Senator, who represents Nasarawa West Senatorial District in the Senate, further noted that the late Secretary General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), would also be remembered “for building bridges of unity among adherents of the two dominant religions in Nigeria-Islam and Christianity”.

Adamu particularly recalled Adegbite’s remarkable efforts in dousing the religious crisis that loomed in the country in 2002, following the protests that had trailed an alleged blasphemous publication by ThisDay when Nigeria was about to host the Miss World Beauty Pageant.

“Those untiring efforts of his (Dr. Adegbite), if we recall very well, earned him wider recognition, accolades, and most probably led to his appointment by the present administration as Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Public Awareness on Security and Civic Responsibilities”, the former Nasarawa State governor added. Senator Adamu also recalled that Dr. Adegbite was a distinguished luminary who had an impeccable record as Attorney-General of the Old Western Region of Nigeria, and urged the Ogun State Government and the NSCIA to immortalise him in recognition of his outstanding contributions in fostering unity and understanding among Nigerians.

Reps seek more funding of Air Force

By PHILIP NWOSU

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he House of Representatives Committee on the Nigerian Air Force has called for more funding for the Force to enable it to meet its capabilities to defend the nation against external aggression.

The Committee’s Chairman, Mr. Kenneth Archibong said there was the need strengthen the Force to be able to perform its role creditably and defend the nation’s integrity.

He spoke during a tour of Nigerian Air Force facility in Lagos as part of its oversight functions, explaining that the story of the force was that there were men ready to work but lack adequate tools and incentives.

For instance, he said most of the capital projects of the force as quoted in the 2012 budget had not got cash backing, adding that, “nothing had been released for capital projects in 2012.

The Hangar projects in Maiduguri, Minna, Markurdi and Sokoto none had been effectively mobilized because funds had not been released.

“When we talk of the Nigerian Air Force, it is a very technical arm of government they need adequate backing both financial, moral and spiritual, because when they are up there in the sky, its only God and them. So, we need to look at it critically and know that they need adequate assistance. The Air Force needs proper funding because the Army fight on ground the Navy at sea and they go up there in sky and there fire power is more effective in terms of technical warfare so we need to being up the Air Force and make them as potent as it could be to defend the integrity of this country.”

Naval Chief tasks officer on transformation plan

By PHILIP NWOSU

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he Nigerian Navy personnel had been called upon to key into the force’s transformation plan and redouble their efforts towards its successful implementation.

The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ola Sa’ad Ibrahim tasked the information officers of the force to enhance the process of ensuring that the transformation plan of the force permeates and finds acceptance within the service.

He spoke at the opening of the Naval Information Workshop in Lagos urging the Directorate of Naval Information to disseminate the objectives of the Naval Transformation Plan to sister services and maritime stakeholders to enable them appreciate ongoing efforts at repositioning the force for future challenges.

He said that the Nigerian Navy Transformation Plan faces new and evolving challenges, especially as Nigeria will continue to rely on her coastal front for access and economic prosperity.

Ibrahim who was represented by the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Ameen Ikioda said that the Navy would be challenged in this regard to provide effective maritime security in the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone, noting that the dictates of the National Defence and Foreign Policies envisage that the force would increasingly be used as a diplomatic tool for influence and power projection.

• Joint Action of Nigerian Universities, Oyo State branch during a peaceful protest on the plight of Nigerians in Ibadan yesterday. Photo: DADA OSASONA

How kidnappers dealt with me,

by Ogun bizman From ADE Ijebu-Ode

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ADEYEMI, He’s got money,” These were

popular Ijebu-Ode based-businessman who was kidnapped last Monday, Mr. Segun Oyebolu has narrated his ordeal in the hands of his abductors as well as explained the reason behind his abduction.

The Egba-born businessman was released late Wednesday night.

Oyebolu who is the chief executive officer of the Feedthe Elderly Foundation, an NGO devoted to catering for the aged and widow said he was abducted ‘for being successful in a land that seemed cursed.’’

Speaking with Daily Sun yesterday, Mr. Oyebolu described his three days in the kidnappers den as ‘horrible and deadly.’’

His words: “I was abducted in front of my Erinlu office while on my way home.

Seven kidnappers abducted me at gun point in broad day light and I had three days full of horror with them.’’

“I was brutalized physically and emotionally simply because they are jobless.

Quoting the kidnappers Oyebolu said “it was evil for you to have millions of naira when we can’t find a job.’

“My abductors were mad at me that I bought eight choice cars in a space of one month. I was given severe beatings, kicked on every part of my body with hot knife treatments that left more scars in my heart than the one my doctors are now treating me of.”

“My ordeal started on a bad note. This man is rich.

the words from the ring leader named ‘Sergie.”

He said immediately after Sergie uttered those words, the other members of the gang reacted by raining deadly blows on his face.

He explained that he was chained in the legs, tied on the hands and blindfolded for the three days without eating and drinking.

Speaking further, Oyebolu who is also the chairman of Naija Travels Agency said before the incident, he had his fair share of armed robbery attacks in Ijebu-Ode. He said his plea to his abductors to consider the 250 elderly citizens he intended to start feeding from October 5 apart from the over 1,000 people being catered for, fell on deaf ears.

“I even told them to consider over 100 staff across Nigeria that required his signature before getting their salary with a hot knife but that appeal was responded to my flesh.”

‘I am frustrated not only for the deep financial hole they dug in me but the permanent scar they left on my heart.”

Nigeria’s democracy dying, says ex-Speaker, Ghali Umar Na ‘Abba

From DESMOND as, “those people who had vision and who understood MGBOH, Kano the nature of democracy itself ormer Speaker of the and who had the willingness, Federal House of the ability, and the capacity to Representatives, Alhaji see that democracy remained Ghali Umar Na ‘Abba has alive.”

Ghali lamented: “Today, warned that development and good governance would con- when you look at the field of tinue to elude Nigeria, except governance in Nigeria, you the country found a solution cannot see Nigeria’s best to the absence of internal brains. These people have democracy afflicting the vari- fallen by the wayside. These ous political parties in the people who have vision, people who are well -meaning, land.

Ghali, who spoke to people who can move this reporters at the press centre of democracy forward are no the Nigeria Union of longer in reckoning in most Journalists, (NUJ) Kano, yes- public offices” Ghali, who was evidently a terday, said that the scourge of undemocratic practices victim of money- bag politics within the country’s political in the last senatorial congress parties had robbed it of the of the PDP in Kano State, emergence of the right kind declared that those holding of leadership capable of sway in the parties, including redeeming it from the present the PDP, have refused to allow internal democracy to brink.

Speaking during an inter- work because of their selfishactive session to mark the ness.

He added: “But without Independence Day Celebration, he decried that competitions for positions in “often enough in this political our political parties, definitely dispensation; the best brains democracy will terminate. were increasingly becoming And it is no exaggeration if I the causalities of this phe- say that today, (our) democracy is increasingly getting ternomenon”.

He defined the best brains minal.

“Even the nomenclature of

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democracy itself is changing because every time primary elections are held within the parties, people no longer ask who were being elected, rather people ask who have been anointed or who had been positioned for which position, ”said he.

He disagreed with the adoption of candidates under the guise of consensus, holding that most of these consensus cases were fraudulent and decoys designed to impose the choice of those who control the party.

He observed a lot quality people were finding it unworthy to partake in politics even as he stressed that the absence of internal democracy in political parties had swollen the ranks of politicians who had taken to the art and science of sycophancy.

Describing this as a very dangerous trend, he said: “Sycophancy has become an incentive for people to be mobile in our society. Unless you become a sycophant, you cannot be mobile in this system. And this means that many are ready to do anything, including sabotaging their country, so that one can become mobile.”

8 DAILY SUN Tuesday, October 2, 2012

NEWS Peace, unity, greatest achievements of Nigeria at 52 –Ex Rep

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former member of the House of Representatives, Chief U. S. A. Igwesi has described peace and unity in Nigeria as the greatest achievements of Nigeria at

52.

Igwesi, in a statement yesterday in Abuja observed that peace and unity were not only germaine but key to development and progress of any nation. Arguing that for Nigeria to still remain an indivisible entity at 52 with all the political, social and economic hiccups associated with her growth, pointed to the fact that Nigeria was a nation destined to succeed.

The former majority leader of Enugu State House of Assembly insisted that Nigeria would not break but rather indices for her fortified unity and growth were obvious.

Describing Boko Haram as an instrument in the hands of greedy individuals who wanted to use it to create political space for their selfish gains and motives, he insisted that the Islamist sect had no expiry date, which, according to him, would usher in a more united and prosperous Nigeria.

The former state and federal lawmaker argued that ethnic inter-dependence was a core factor militating against the division of Nigeria. “Are you talking of relationship in marriage, business, religion and social activities, even the bond of corruption among these ethnic groups in our ministries, parastatals and agencies. These will not allow them to disintegrate, they love Nigeria, they are just pretending.”

Igwesi called for all hands to be on deck to curb corruption, which, according to him, was not only endemic but a cancer worm threatening the economic, social and political peace of the country.

Adegbite’s death, monumental loss to Nigeria –Ajimobi

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overnor Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State has described the passage of the secretary general of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Dr. Lateef Adegbite, as a monumental loss to the Muslim community, the legal profession and Nigeria in general.

The governor, in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Dr. Festus Adedayo, in Ibadan yesterday, said he received the news of Adegbite’s demise with shock and disbelief.

He described him as an elderstatesman who lived his life for the unity and oneness of the country.

As a religious leader, the governor said Adegbite used his status as the NSCIA scribe to advance the cause of Islam and to ensure harmony among various religious adherents in Nigeria.

“It is also on record that Adegbite made his mark in the legal profession which he used to seek justice for the poor and the oppressed. His death is highly unfortunate and disheartening, moreso at this critical time when the nation needs his spiritual counsel to tackle the myriad of problems currently confronting it.

“We are, however, consoled with the fact that Adegbite lived a fulfilled life, a life of service to humanity,” he remarked.

Ajimobi called on the friends, associates and family members of the late Adegbite to celebrate his passage rather than mourning, as he did his best to impact positively on fellow human beings and his fatherland.

He prayed the almighty Allah to grant him Aljanah Firdaus and the family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

...Saraki expresses shock From LAYI OLANREWAJU, Ilorin

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he immediate past governor of Kwara State and Senator representing Kwara Central Senatorial District, Senator Abubakar Bukola Saraki, yesterday expressed great shock over the news of the demise of Alhaji Lateef Adegbite, the secretary-general, Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA).

A statement issued by Saraki in Ilorin said the late Adegbite was a true patriot, who represented the symbol of peace in his lifetime.

According to him, “the many feats he achieved were exemplified as the secretary-general for the NSCIA, a position he used judiciously to foster unity and peaceful co-existence among Muslims and non-Muslims.

“A renowned lawyer and former attorney-general of the defunct Western Region, Adegbite’s contribution to nation building is unparalleled. He was full of life and until his death a strong advocate for religious tolerance. He will be missed by all Nigerians, especially the Muslim community.”

He described him as a quintessential role model to the younger generation who died at a time when the country needed his pragmatism the most, “no doubt his role with other religious leaders in the past in advocating for religious forbearance will be deeply missed.

•L-R: Tony Icheku, Chairman, FCT Correspondents Chapel presenting the Media Distinction Award to Mrs Tonia IkeEjeye. In the middle watching is Mrs Yemi Daniel, vice-chairman of the chapel during the Lecture/Awards Day of the chapel’s 2012 Press Week with the theme ‘Press as Catalyst to Good Governance’ held at Sheraton Hotel and Towers, Abuja recently.

2013 budget impasse: Jonathan, N’Assembly leadership meet tomorrow •Senate joins Reps to shun budget presentation •President summons meeting on Bakassi

Asked whether the House of Representatives had formally written the Senate on its decision, a ranking member dismissed the question and reiterated that the leadership of both chambers “are in constant interaction unlike before.

“There’s no need for the Speaker to formally write us on the matter. The two leaders are working in close collaboration. Whenever any of the chambers takes any decision, it is usually communicated to us; it doesn’t have to be in a written format.

The Wednesday meeting will chart the way forward.”

From ADETUTU Representatives has never hidden its resolve that it FOLASADE-KOYI, Abuja would not receive a new wenty-four hours to the budget until it is convinced of scheduled presentation the level of implementation of the 2013 of the 2012 Appropriation Appropriation Bill, President Act. “On the other hand, the Goodluck Jonathan is billed to meet with the leadership of Senate’s hand is tied on the the National Assembly over matter. It is a bicameral legislature and so, if the House the impasse.

The meeting, which would says it is not ready, there is no hold tomorrow, was reported- way the Senate can receive ly called at the instance of the the president alone. Since the House has said it is not ready, president.

The president had, last then we won’t take the budgweek, written both chambers et from the president.” of the National Assembly asking to be allotted 12:00 noon to address both houses on the new budget.

Less than 48 hours after, •Kidnappers of commissioner yet to the House of Representatives From PAUL OSUYI, Asaba the hospital where he was replied the president that it rushed to for medical attenwould not be available in a he Head of Personnel tion while his corpse was joint session on Thursday, Management of Isoko deposited at one of the hospiOctober 4.

North Local tal mortuaries at Kwale.

The House noted that Government Area of Delta Police Public Relations chairmen of standing com- State, Mr. Bernard Chigwe Officer of the state police mittees would be away on was on Sunday allegedly command, DSP Charles oversight tours of the killed by armed Fulani cattle Muka confirmed the incident Ministries, Departments and herdsmen. and added that investigation Agencies (MDAs) to collate, He was allegedly mur- had already begun, saying first-hand, information about dered on his farm in his “for now we cannot confithe level of executive compli- Kwale home town in dently say whether the HPM ance with the 2012 budget.

Ndokwa West Local was killed by the Fulani cattle On the other hand, the Government Area of the state. rearers because investigations Senate has not officially taken He was said to have gone are still on and we wouldn’t a stand on the impasse but to the farm only to discover pre-empt our investigations.”

Senate Spokesman, that the farmland had been Muka also said the police Enyinnaya Abaribe, reasoned grazed by cattle, a situation had intensified efforts to track last week that the upper leg- that led him to invite police- down the kidnappers of the islative chamber could not, men from Kwale division. state Commissioner for on its own, receive the presiA source said the cattle Higher Education, Prof. Hope dent on the budget. herdsmen on sighting the Eghagha who was abducted Regardless, National police took to their heels in a deadly operation on Assembly sources told Daily while the police gave them a Sunday. His orderly was Sun that “the Wednesday hot chase. killed in the operation. meeting is a last ditch effort Investigation revealed that According to the source, as on the part of the two arms of the chase was on, an the hoodlums were yet to government, with the sole unknown person suspected to establish contact with the vicaim to fashion out a solution be one of the herdsmen shot tim’s family members or any to the budget impasse. official of the state governChigwe from behind.

“The House of He was said to have died at ment as at yesterday evening.

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Another committee chairman noted that although the Senate did not set a definite date for its 54 committees to go on oversight, “there is the tacit understanding that when we get to our respective MDAs, we will look at the appropriation for the year and ascertain the level of (fund) releases from the Ministry of Finance.

“We’ve been directed to have all the submissions before we accommodate budget defence from the MDAs.” In line with constitutional provisions, however, the president might address the

Delta LGA boss killed on his farm

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establish contact His whereabouts remained unknown although speculations were rife that the hoodlums might have taken to the creeks in one of the neighbouring states.

The commissioner’s driver who sustained bullet wounds during the operation was said to be recovering even as the police said they were hot on the trail of the hoodlums.

Eghagha was trailed from Warri area of the state by gunmen suspected to be kidnappers who intercepted him at Owa-Ekei Junction on the Abraka-Asaba Road and opened fire on his vehicle.

The incident threw the state into confusion and might have led to the total cancellation of the lowkey ceremony to mark the nation’s 52nd independence anniversary in the state.

But a government source told Daily Sun that there was no initial plan for any ceremony for the anniversary, maintaining that nothing was shelved as a result of

DAILY SUN Tuesday, October 2, 2012, 9

SOUTH SOUTH Flood: Rep raises alarm over threat to Asaba-Onitsha highway From PAUL OSUYI, Asaba

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s the water level of the River Niger continues to rise, a federal lawmaker in Delta State, Mr. Ndudi Elumelu has raised the alarm that the flood ravaging the coastal communities would soon cover and submerge parts of the BeninAsaba-Onitsha highway.

The lawmaker is apprehensive that the flood which is a few feet away from the road would soon cut-off the eastern region unless the Federal Government took urgent steps to create alternative route to avoid the Lokoja-Abuja highway experience.

Elumelu who represents Aniocha/Oshimili constituency at the House of Representatives, raised the alarm while assessing the level of damage caused by flood to communities in his constituency.

“Well, it is very disheartening what I have just seen during the on-the-spot assessment of what is going on but particularly what is threatening is what I envisage that would happen to Asaba-Onitsha road within few hours. “What I am seeing is that this road would soon be submerged and if the road is submerged, it means that totally, the whole South-East would be cut-off. So the Federal Government, Ministry of Works needs to come urgently to see what they can do.

“They should not wait for exactly what happened to LokojaAbuja Road. This threatening, it is real, you can see here that Immigration office has totally been submerged, they can’t even access the property. Moreover, the communities that are close to this place have been totally wiped out,” he stated.

Elumelu who sympathised with those who lost their loved ones to the flood, later visited the resettlement camp.

Bayelsa creation: Dickson immortalizes Abacha

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s Bayelsa State marks the 16th anniversary of its creation, the state government has announced its decision to immortalize late General Sani Abacha in whose regime, the state was created in 1996.

To this end, government has concluded plans to lay the foundation stone for a 150-duplex housing estate which would be named after the late general.

Governor Dickson made the announcement in his broadcast to commemorate the 16th anniversary of the creation of Bayelsa State and the 52nd independence anniversary of the country.

According to Dickson, government, in partnership with the Ijaw National Congress (INC), had christened the main auditorium of the INC secretariat after General Abacha. He also sent invitation to the family of the late General to be part of the celebration and also plant a memorial tree in his honour.

Dickson stressed that the gesture which came 16 years after the creation of the state would also be used to honour the first civilian Governor of the State, Chief Diepreye Alamieyeseigha for his commitment to the Ijaw struggle by naming a hall after him in the INC building, which was started by him.

Governor Dickson also paid tributes to those he described as worthy Nigerian leaders like President Olusegun Obasanjo and late President Umaru Yar’Adua whose actions impacted positively on Bayelsans, stressing that they too would be honoured in due course.

Jonathan tasks Ijaw Nation on new strategies From FEMI FOLARANMI, Yenagoa

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resident Goodluck Jonathan yesterday urged the Ijaw nation to adopt new strategies in its quest to realize its aspiration within the Nigerian state.

Jonathan speaking at the formal opening of the International Headquarters of the Ijaw National Congress building in Yenagoa, said the quest for good governance and rapid development on one hand and on the other, the quest for genuine nationhood and an enduring political structure based on true love, mutual trust and progressive is the aspiration of all the unique ethnic nationalities in Nigeria.

Represented by his Special Adviser on Research, Documentation and Strategy, Oronto Douglas, Jonathan explained that the aspiration for a better Nigeria being championed by the Ijaw nation should be pursued without breeding mutual suspicion in the country.

While pointing out that nothing can be achieved in an atmosphere of rancor, Jonathan stressed that the Ijaw nation could not afford to suffer more loss of lives.

His words: “My point is that the strong unity and fraternity which are the hallmarks and foundation of the INC should be utilized with extreme responsibility and realistic application.

We must constructively and robustly engage ourselves and others, along practicable and peaceful modalities. Whatever misgivings, grievances we bear or corrections we seek should be presented and pursued with a high sense of inclusivity in a way and manner that encourages appreciation.”

•Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson (centre) hoisting the state’s flag at the Government House gate as part of activities to mark Nigeria at 52/Bayelsa at 16 anniversary celebrations in Yenagoa yesterday. The acting President of Ijaw National Congress (INC), Chief Joshua Benemieseigha (right) and the first civilian governor of the state, Chief Diepreye Alamieyeseigha (left) watch with interest.

Uduaghan sends SOS to FG, others as flood ravages more Delta communities

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elta State Governor, Emmanuel Uduaghan has called on the Federal Government, the private sector, philanthropists and well meaning-Nigerians to urgently come to the aid of the state as flood submerges more communities in the state.

Speaking in Asaba while reviewing the damages so far by the flooding, the Governor said that the extent of the damage was far beyond what the State could cope with.

According to him, the situation on ground was “grave and grim” with over 100 communities in no less than 10 Local Government Areas of the state affected seriously.

The local governments areas affected include Patani, Isoko South, Isoko North, Ndokwa East, Bomadi, Burutu, Oshimili North, Oshimili South, Ughelli North and Ughelli South.

In particular, he said that the River Niger had overflowed its banks covering an average distance of between six kilometers and 10 kilometers inland in the affected communities, stressing that the tide had been increasing.

His words: “Within a period of three days the number of communities affected increased astronomically and for now, there is fear of total flooding of the affected communities.”

Describing the situation as “devastating and a huge challenge”, he said most of the rehabilitation camps had already recorded about 100,000 displaced persons, noting that mattresses, food items and medical facilities were being arranged for the victims in the interim.

Accordingly, Dr Uduaghan called on the Federal Government, corporate bodies, NGO’s, and public, spirited individuals to partner with

his administration in bringing succour to the victims.

He lamented that two persons have died from the flooding, adding that the committee headed by the Deputy Governor of the State, Prof. Amos Utuama (SAN) to tackle the challenges of the flooding, was working round the clock to ensure that no more life was lost.

He charged members of

the committee to be transparent in their dealings and ensure that no item meant for the victims were diverted.

The governor charged the committee to set up sub-committees in the local areas and involve residents of the affected communities in the distribution of relief materials and movement of the people and their property.

Uduaghan appealed to those who were still in the flood prone zones not to wait

until they were in danger before coming out explaining that the state government was ready to assist them with both land and river transportation to relocate. ‘’The river is surging into the communities on a daily basis and increasing in tempo, let everyone in the flood prone areas come out before it is too late because a stitch in time saves nine,” he added.

…NUPENG seeks FG’s support for flood victims

By BIMBOLA OYESOLA

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igeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, (NUPENG), has called on the Federal Government to quickly come to the aid of victims affected by the floods currently ravaging parts of the country.

The union in a statement signed by its Acting General Secretary, Comrade Isaac Aberare also advised the government to declare a state of emergency in the affected communities, while relief materials and temporary abode be made for them.

The union added that a supplementary budget to assist the flood victims should be quickly sent to the National Assembly for approval, to provide succour for the affected people and their communities.

While commiserating with the families of those who have lost their lives in the floods, the union warned that state governments should desist from allocating and allowing buildings to be erected in flood-prone areas; especially around the river banks.

NUPENG likewise called on the federal and state gov-

ernments to as a matter of urgency, dispatch medical teams to the affected areas to avert epidemic and diseases from ravaging the communities.

It re-iterated that the three tiers of government must begin to enlighten the populace on global warming or climate change which was partly responsible for the upsurge, stating that agencies of government like NEMA,

responsible for providing assistance to the affected people, should be alive to their responsibilities.

Stressing on precaution, the union demanded that adequate forecast should be made available on extent of such damages when waters were released from dams to make people move before they were trapped as it was done in advanced countries.

A’Ibom govt to support initiative of scrabble games in secondary schools

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he Akwa Ibom Government has pledged to support the state’s Scrabble Association on its initiative to introduce scrabble game in secondary schools in the state.

Governor Godswill O. Akpabio disclosed this at a Gala Night that marked the end of the sixth Godswill Akpabio International Scrabble Classics held at the Government House Banquet Hall, Uyo. “We are ready to support Akwa Ibom State Scrabble Association on its initiative to introduce scrabble game in secondary schools in the state. Scrabble is not just a mere game, but a game that widens the intellect, horizon around ones world and indeed part of life. So, we would introduce the scrabble competition in our schools and train the students”, he remarked.

Chief Akpabio, who thanked organizers for involving women in this year’s competition, called on other women to indulge in the game.

The Governor, who commended the President of Scrabble Games, Chief Toke Aka for bringing the competition to the state and for including the game in Olympics Games Competition, thanked Mr. Sam Timer for inventing the scrabble time clock, promising to look into the possibilities of reviewing the prices for the winners.

10, DAILY SUN Tuesday, October 2, 2012

SOUTH EAST Man caught having sex with donkey From PETRUS OBI, Enugu

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middle-aged man identified simply as Anayochukwu was stripped by villagers for allegedly having sex with a donkey.

Anayochukwu who hails from Umujovu, Eha-Amufu was handed over to the police after he was paraded naked around the town of Eha-Amufu following a report made by owner of the donkey, Mrs. Nnedi Moses.

Confirming the incident, Enugu State Police Public Relations Officer, Ebere Amaraizu said the suspect was allegedly caught in the act by the owner of the donkey.

The incident was reported to have taken place in an abattoir from where the suspect was taken to Ikem Divisional Police Station.

The complainant, Mrs. Moses, who spoke to newsmen, said she became apprehensive when she caught Anayochukwu forcing his manhood into the donkey.

She expressed suspicion that he might have contracted HIV and was looking for a way to spread the scourge.

The PPRO said the suspect had confessed to the crime but had asked for pardon as he did not commit it out of his own volition but was influenced by demonic forces.

Enugu community sends SOS to Chime, FG From DAVID ONWUCHEKWA, Nnewi

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wgu community in Awgu Local Government Area, Enugu State has sent a Save Our Soul (SOS) message to the federal and state governments over dilapidated infrastructure and neglect of the council area over many years.

In an appeal addressed to President Goodluck Jonathan which was signed by the traditional Prime Minister of Awgu community, Chief Stephen Onuoha, the community lamented that before the Nigerian civil war, Awgu community had a Community Development Training Center (CDTC) serving the former Eastern Region which he said had since been relocated to Oji River without recourse to the fact that the Awgu community donated a large parcel of land where the center was sited.

He said the Police College, Area Command, State High Court, were in the same circumstance moved to Oji River, adding that when the community protested that the High Court was far away from it, government requested for a site to return the court, which the community did but had also been abandoned, the traditional ruler complained.

“Government asked us to provide site for the High Court and we donated land and our town hall and this town hall contains High Court, Magistrate Court and Customary Court.

All of them are in the same building. And we gave them this house outright, they are not tenants,” Onuoha said.

He said 12 years after, the building became dilapidate and government had done nothing to renovate it despite series of appeal to the appropriate quarters.

Ebonyi professionals lament marginalisation over federal appointments From GODDY OSUJI, Abakaliki

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bonyi Professionals, a non-governmental organisation, has condemned the marginalisation of the state in federal appointments, saying after 16 years of the state’s creation, Ebonyi people were still in critical conditions and remained the most challenged state in southern Nigeria in terms of infrastructural and human capital development indices.

The group, in a statement in Abakaliki yesterday signed by the National Coordinator, Magnus Eze, argued that from a recent 2011 national poverty report, “Ebonyi State by all levels of analysis is the poorest state in Nigeria,” where about 80 percent of Ebonyians were classified as falling below the poverty line.

According to the coordinator, “of all the states in Nigeria, Ebonyi remains the least in terms of presence, for example, in the Federal Civil Service and other federal parastatals across the country. A recent manpower survey by the Federal Character Commission (FCC) indicates that of over 650 federal Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), Ebonyians in their employ are just a little above 2,000. A breakdown of the 2010 consolidated manpower statistics of 28 federal ministries/extra-ministerial departments shows that Ebonyi has 20 persons on Grade Level 15 and above, amounting to 0.7 percent of 3,061 staff in this category; of 53,340 staff on GL 07 and above, Ebonyi has a beggarly number –547 staff (1.0 percent) when some states boast of 2000 to over 3000 staff.”

He said from available records only three natives of the state had ever headed federal agencies since the return to democracy in 1999, even as he regretted that the sordid statistics might be worse if subjected to closer scrutiny “as some of the people parading themselves as Ebonyians in Federal Government offices may not be Ebonyians after all.”

•Governor Godswill Akpabio of Akwa Ibom State taking the salute during the matchpast at the Uyo Township Stadium to mark the nationís 52nd Independence Anniversary.

2015: Kalu storms Onitsha ...Consults Obi of Onitsha, Archbishop Okeke, Igbo leaders existing political parties in His words: “My message is From DOM EKPUNOBI, Igbo unity (Njiko Igbo). We Onitsha are not preventing other Igbo ormer governor of Abia groups like MASSOB, State, Dr. Orji Uzor Ohanaeze Ndigbo, AkaKalu, has stormed Ikenga, among others, from Anambra State in continua- carrying out their own objection of his consultations with tives, neither are we affiliated prominent Igbo leaders on the to a particular political party. way forward for Ndigbo, for What we are doing is to unite the forthcoming 2015 presi- Ndigbo and make them a bundle of broomsticks so that dential election.

Kalu had on arrival at they cannot be broken by Onitsha, visited Rojenny other ethnic groups via the Games/Tourist Village, Oba, usual divide-and-rule tacwhere he addressed promi- tics.”

Earlier in her remarks, nent Igbo leaders and later had a private audience with Senator Chris Anyanwu, who the Ogirishi Igbo, Chief Rommy Ezeonwuka who is also the proprietor of the Rojenny and Tourist Village, From DOM EKPUNOBI, Oba. Onitsha He later proceeded to the Onitsha GRA residence of the are devil gunmen yesterObi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred day morning shot dead Nnaemeka Achebe to liaise two policemen and with him. wounded some others at Addressing the audience at Umusiome village, Nkpor, Rojenny, Kalu noted that the Idemili North Local primary objective of Njiko Government Area of Anambra Igbo was to unite all Igbo State. groups and make them a forThe policemen were midable front for the major attached to the Ogidi Police Station and were said to have tasks ahead.

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represented Okigwe Senatorial District of Imo, had informed the audience that Ndigbo needed someone who would champion Igbo unity successfully and narrowed it down to Kalu who she said initially resisted the offer on the ground that he had retired from both active politics and active business.

Anyanwu who accompanied Kalu on the visit, noted that they had already visited some states in the South-east before coming to Anambra.

Kalu disclosed that the group would soon meet with

Igboland, talk with Southeast Governors’ Forum and have audience with religious leaders, traditional institutions and various interest groups in the South-east.

Responding, Ezeonwuka thanked Kalu for accepting to work towards the unity of Ndigbo and explained that the task could be achieved through a combination of formula and miracle of God. He therefore urged them to design a workable formula to enable them succeed in the unity of Ndigbo project.

Gunmen kill 2 policemen, injure others in Anambra

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been on patrol in the disputed Abor Akuzor Umusiome/Ogidi Ani land, which had been severally invaded by unidentified gunmen in recent times.

In the last one week, a middle-aged woman, Mrs. Ogechi Okechukwu, was killed in the area by unidentified gunmen who attacked the village and destroyed a five star hotel under construction, belonging to the Chairman of Abor

Elechi worried over persistent communal clashes OSUJI, Stadium yesterday, Elechi lamented that incidences of murder, kidnapping, commus the country celebrates nal unrest, Boko Haram in the her 52nd independence northern states and its counteranniversary and 16 part crimes in the southern years of creation of Ebonyi states have worsened the pains State, Governor Martin Elechi of our people who are conhas expressed worry over the stantly suffering and wasting conflict that has persisted in from flood disaster, collapsed the state where over 110 com- buildings, road accidents and munal clashes and disputes all forms of misfortunes, as a were settled by his administra- result of which public peace tion within the past eight and security should continue to be the people’s watchmonths.

He has therefore sent a pas- word.”

He assured that his adminissionate appeal to the people to make peace their watchword. tration would continue to take Addressing the people of such measures appropriate to the state during the celebration enhance the wellbeing of at Abakaliki Township everybody in the state even as From GODDY Abakaliki

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he paid tribute to the founding fathers and heroes of the nation. The governor argued that it was an opportunity to give God thanks for his abiding grace when one recounted the experiences, trials and tribulations of the heroic efforts of the forefathers, which brought the people from the earliest beginning to where they were today.

Detailing his developmental strides in the state, Elechi thanked President Goodluck Jonathan for granting the state a waiver of import duty on all the ductile iron pipes and accessories meant for the Oferekpe water scheme in the state, which had saved the state over N1.2 billion.

Akuzor kindred, Chief Okechukwu Nwafoagu.

It was suspected that the hoodlums used explosives suspected to be dynamite to destroy the hotel. The attack was the second in the area in which many homes were robbed, houses torched and several uncompleted buildings destroyed.

Daily Sun investigation revealed that Abor Akuzor kindred had been in a fatal land dispute with their neighbouring Oramadike village, Ogidi, resulting in the constant police and military patrol in the area.

Following the several shooting incidents in the area, the inspector general of police (IGP) Monitoring Unit, Force Headquarters, Abuja, had earlier summoned the chairman of Abor Akuzor kindred and his Oramadike counterpart, to Abuja, where they were made to write and sign undertaking with the police to maintain peace and order in the area.

The Chairman of Abor Akuzor kindred, Nwafoagu whose hotel and property were destroyed in the attacks, blamed the police for not acting early on the information his people had been giving them.

DAILY SUN Tuesday, October 2, 2012, 11

SOUTH WEST Mass protest rocks Ibadan on Independence Day From GBENGA ADESUYI, Ibadan

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he Joint Action Front (JAF), yesterday led a large crowd of Ibadan residents to protest government insensitivity to the plights of Nigerians. The protesters comprised members of the Academic Staff Union (ASUU), UI chapter, led by its president, Dr Segun Ajiboye, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) led by Comrade Bashir Olanrewaju, National Socialist Movement, Senior Staff of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), and other civil society groups, led by the state co-ordinator of JAF, Dr Ademola Aremu.

As early as 8am, protesters had been converging at the UI main gate, which was agreed, as the take-off point.

The procession, which was done under heavy security cover moved from Samonda, Sango, Elewure, Bodija, Housing Estate, Favours, Bodija and back to University of Ibadan.

The protesters carried placards with varying inscriptions like: Nigeria at 52 still crawling like a toddler,’ ‘Stop unemployment and Poverty now’ ‘We say no to fuel hike and privatization’ and no to casualization,’ ‘We need good governance’, ‘Education must be free.” They also sang anti-government songs. There was traffic snarl for several hours in the areas where the protesters passed as even many pedestrians joined the peaceful protest.

...ACN congratulates Ajimobi, Oyo people

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he Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Oyo State chapter, has felicitated with the Governor of Oyo State, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, the people of the state and the entire Nigerians on the occasion of the 52nd independence anniversary.

In a press release signed by its state Publicity Secretary, Dauda Kolawole, the party urged Nigerians to use the occasion to remember with gratitude, the selfless service rendered to the country by those who sacrificed their lives to ensure that the country remained one and indivisible till today.

The party noted that for the country to continue to exist as a corporate entity, Nigerians needed to set aside divisive tendencies and concentrate on things that bind us together and which if properly harnessed, could accelerate the socio-economic development of the country.

“In building Nigeria of our dream, we should see ourselves as partners, irrespective of our ethnic, religious and political differences. We must always be conscious of the fact that we all have roles to play.

“We must believe in ourselves, shed negativity, prioritize our thoughts on development and halt the dissipation of energy and resources on non-productive issues,” the statement added.

Oyo approves N177m drugs for hospitals

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overnor Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State has approved the procurement of essential drugs and medical consumables for distribution freely to all public hospitals and health centres across the state.

A statement issued in Ibadan yesterday by his Special Adviser on Media, Dr. Festus Adedayo, said that the Governor’s approval was sequel to an approval of the sum by the State Executive Council (SEC).

According to him, the drugs, which would be supplied by 21 pharmaceutical companies within 30 days, would cost the state government the sum of N177,528,000.

The statement said that the drugs and medical consumables would be used in treating common but endemic diseases such as malaria and to reduce maternal and infant mortality rate.

“The Ajimobi administration places high priority on the provision of effective and efficient health services to improve the health status of the people of Oyo State,” Adedayo said.

Ekiti to ban Okada riders from highways From CHARLES ADEGBITE, Ado-Ekiti

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ommercial motorcyclists, popularly called Okada riders, will soon be banned from operating on major highways in Ekiti State.

The state government has already started the process of enacting a law to prohibit riding motorcycles on the Ekiti highways in order to reduce drastically, the rate of auto crash in the state.

The General Manager of the Ekiti State Traffic Management Agency (EKSTMA), Charles Fasuba disclosed this to Daily Sun yesterday.

He said that by the time the ongoing dualization and reconstruction of roads in the state were completed, the volume of traffic in the state would increase rapidly.

As a proactive step towards preventing road crashes, the EKSTMA boss wrote a letter to Governor Kayode Fayemi on September 20, 2012, on the excesses of Okada riders in the state; with reference to Petition from Public Complaints Commission.

•L–R: Olugbo of Ugbo, Oba Obateru Akinruntan, his wife, Olori Iyabode, presenting a birthday gift to juju music icon, Sunny Ade (Sunday Adeniyi Adegeye) to mark the latter’s 66th birthday in Ibadan, Oyo State yesterday.

Ekiti PDP accuses Fayemi of planning to spend N750m on 2nd anniversary ...It’s a lie, says Information Commissioner From CHARLES ADEGBITE, Ado-Ekiti

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he Ekiti State chapter of People’s Democratic Party (PDP), has accused Governor Kayode Fayemi of allegedly planning to waste about N750 million on the celebration of second year anniversary of his administration.

Fayemi who just bagged “Governor of the Year” award from the Leadership Newspapers will celebrate his second year in office on October 16, with a lot of activities taking place within the period.

The party, through its Director General, Information and Media, Chief Gboyega Aribisogan, while briefing journalists in his office on Monday, described the second anniversary as “ celebration of a waste, ineptitude and hypocrisy.”

He advised the state government not to waste the proposed N750 million Ekiti hard-earned resources on the celebration.

He also rated Fayemi-led administration low in the last 24 months, saying that government had performed below the expectation of the people.

In a swift reaction to this however, the State Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, Hon Funminiyi Afuye dismissed the allegation as flawed, saying, “they should not be blind to reality.

If this is how we have been spending, Fayemi wouldn’t have got money to finance all the developmental projects going on in the state.”

The party also accused the present administration of selling some Ekiti State assets, like the Road Materials Company in Igbemo and some machines removed from the O’odua Textile Mill in Ado Ekiti, to a foreign company in one of the West African countries.

Reacting, Afuye said the O’odua Group of Companies owned the textile industry in Ado Ekiti and that Fayemi did not in any way interfere with the sales of assets removed from the company after its conversion into a Builders’ Mall.

The PDP further accused the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), of alleging that it instigated the last Friday riot that rocked the Ekiti State University in Ado Ekiti.

During the riot, five vehicles belonging to the university were burnt by rampag-

ing students.

The PDP also criticised the Fayemi-led administration for allegedly making the allegation that the killing of a student, Mr. Biola Teslim Yusuf by run-away driver actually ignited the crisis.

The PDP Spokesman said, “we find it so funny that the ACN, a party that is overwhelmed by governance, could be linking us to the violent protest that rocked EKSU last Friday.”

The PDP said, “From our investigation, we learnt that two aides to Governor Fayemi visited the University last Wednesday.

And as government’s agents, the students wanted to collect money from them and the driver suddenly moved and hit the student , who later died on Friday.”

Lambasting Fayemi for not coming up with measures to assuage the feelings of the students which could prevent the protest, the party called on the Police to make

their findings public on what actually caused the student’s death.

PDP also accused ACNled government of increasing the security votes of the Local Government chairmen from N1 million to N2 million to unleash terror on the PDP members while holding their ward meetings in all the 177 wards in the state.

The party also asked Fayemi to stop the politicisation of the State Independent Electoral Commission (SIEC) and State Judicial Service Commission, Afuye, who denied the allegations, contended that it was wrong for the PDP to assume the role of Police and start preempting investigations.

“It was surprising that these two agencies could place separate adverts to commend Fayemi over the Leadership Award he purchased and this was enough reason to see them as being seriously politicized.”

Aregbesola shuns Independence celebration •As Osogbo residents stay indoors From BAMIGBOLA GBO- be celebrated in the state.

Although, no reason was LAGUNTE, Osogbo given by the government for sun State its action, Daily Sun, howGovernment yester- ever, gathered that the deciday did not cele- sion might not be unconbrate the 52nd anniversary nected with the posture of of Nigeria’s independence the present administration in the state. some Federal Meanwhile, Governor on Government’s policies.

Rauf Aregbesola had just Daily Sun survey showed before the country’s independence anniversary, that none of the civil society returned from an overseas groups or even the Peoples trip, which made people Democratic Party (PDP) think that the event would that used to mark the

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anniversary with public lectures did so for reasons not revealed.

Many residents of the state stayed indoors throughout the day to mark the public holiday declared by the Federal Government.

Meanwhile, residents of Osogbo, the state capital and some other towns in the state yesterday celebrated Nigeria’s independence without power, as the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) did not supply them electricity.

12 DAILY SUN Tuesday, October 2, 2012

ONDO GUBER POLL COUNTDOWN Akeredolu promises to build seaport in Ilaje

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he governorship candidate of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Mr. Rotimi Akeredolu (SAN) has promised to transform the riverine areas of Ondo State by building a seaport in Ilaje Area of the state Akeredolu who rounded off his wards campaigns said the seaport would boost the economy of the state and provide employment opportunities for the youths He said apart from the seaport, his government if elected would embark on other laudable projects that would benefit the people of the riverine areas.

Akeredolu alongside his deputy, Dr. Paul Akintelure, Chief Tayo Alasoadura, the Director General of Akeredolu Campaign Organisation (ACO), Madam Erelu Modupe Johnson, State Women Leader of the Action Congress of Nigeria and Mr. Wale Omojuwa, Chief Olu Tawose, Chief Ade Odoro, Ayedatiwa, Iroaiye among others were given rousing welcome at the riverine areas The traditional rulers of the areas promised their support for the Akeredolu-Akintelure ticket by mobilizing their subjects to vote for the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN).

Agagu on ego trip -MCO

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he Mimiko Campaign Organisation (MCO) on Monday lambasted the former governor of Ondo State, Dr. Olusegun Agagu over his attempt to challenge his removal from office, saying that Agagu was on an ego trip that would eventually lead to his undoing unless he retraces his steps.

The ex-governor was according to news reports seeking judicial assistance over his removal from office by the court.

He was said to be hinging his redress on a purported fake State Security Services (SSS) report, which, he said, nailed him and gave victory to Mimiko who contested against him in 2007.

But the MCO while describing Agagu’s antics as comical, kindergarten in nature, and a trip to perdition, berated him for all his tissues of lies, all in his desperation to thwart the work of God. It noted that the current development was the culminations of series of lies, which it noted included the false allegation that Mimiko was about probing his activities as governor for the four legal years and the two illegal years he spent in office.

According to the MCO’s Director of Publicity and Media Relations, Mr. Kolawole Olabisi, Agagu’s problem stemmed from ego, which was bruised by his loss to Dr. Olusegun Mimiko in the 2007 governorship election despite all the money, influence and power behind him.

...You’re afraid of Agagu, PDP tells Mimiko

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he Peoples Democratic Party in Ondo State has said that Governor Olusegun Mimiko condemnation over Dr. Olusegun Agagu’s decision to petition the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) to seek legal assistance on the Mimiko election victory showed that the governor is jittery Kunle Adebayo, the Director of Media and Publicity of the PDP in the state said the statement credited to Mimiko over Agagu’s action to petition the CJN was laughable “Why is Dr. Mimiko afraid of any criminal inquest into his so-called victory at the court of law? Why is he taking a judicial matter to the pages of newspapers?

“It is laughable and ironic that a man who boasted to have come to equity with clean hands is now whimpering and running helter and skelter and cooking up stories.”

“Principles of moral decency dictates that a clean and honest man, that Mimiko claims to be, without anything to hide would have happily welcomed any judicial reopening into his past and joyfully prepare to carry the cup instead of hiding behind a finger.”

RMG cautions INEC, security agents on Ondo poll

By PETER ANOSIKE

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he National Coordinator of Rights Monitoring Group (RMG), Olufemi Akinbule Aduwo, has charged INEC and the security agencies to put all necessary security measures in place to ensure a hitch-free, fair and credible elections in Ondo State.

In a statement issued in Lagos, Aduwo said politicians should play according to the rules of the game, adding that it was never a do or die affairs as a winner must emerge in every contest.

Aduwo, while warning politicians trying to foment trouble by using thugs from the Niger Delta to create crisis should better give up such retrogressive plans, he also cautioned governors of states surrounding Ondo state not to cause distraction during the exercise.

•L–R: Ondo State Governor, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko and the Olowo of Owo, Oba Victor Folagbade Olateru-Olagbegi during Governor Mimiko’s campaign tour of Owo Local Government Area of the state on Sunday.

Fashola in Ondo, canvasses votes for Akeredolu Stories from TUNDE RAHEEM, Akure

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agos State Governor, Babatunde Raji Fashola (SAN), yesterday expressed confidence in the standard bearer of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) Mr. Rotimi Akeredolu (SAN), saying he has the capacity to deliver on his promises to transform Ondo State if voted in as governor.

Fashola who paid a solidarity visit to Akeredolu in Akure described him as another Senior Advocate of Nigeria SAN with a sound mind. Who would not disappoint the people of the state.

Fashola observed that his performance as governor of Lagos State had become a benchmark for development in Nigeria and indeed Africa,

urging the people of Ondo State to vote for Akeredolu as governor on October 20, so that he could replicate the type of developmental projects currently being enjoyed in Lagos.

Akeredolu while responding said he would create 30,000 jobs in his first 100 days in office, would pursue comprehensive health care

programme.

He thanked Governor Fashola and promised to replicate what he is doing in Lagos in Ondo State. He also promised to continue to uplift the noble profession to which they both belong and commit to the development of the people of Nigeria.

On hand to receive Fashola

LP caretaker chairman, others join PDP

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he Peoples Democratic Party in Ondo State received a major boost on Sunday as some key members of opposition parties defected to the party.

Those who defected are Special Assistant to Governor Mimiko on Special Interest, Mr. Jerry Akinwunmi, former local government caretaker

chairman, Ilaje Local Government Area, Tola Alabere, Personal Assistant to the Senator representing Ondo South, Senator Boluwaji Kunlere, Oluwanbe Olomu and their supporters.

The former Labour Party leaders officially joined the PDP at the local government rally of the party held at

Why I care for women -Mimiko

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ndo State Governor, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko has said that his decision to continue empowering women was based on their pivotal roles in nation building.

Mimiko said his administration had been putting in place, projects that would impact positively on the lives of women.

Dr. Mimiko who made this disclosure at Ijebu Owo, during his campaign tour of Owo Local Government on Sunday evening said he would continue to build markets for the women and give them soft loans to trade because of their enormous contributions to the society.

“Our women are the cornerstone of our development, we are aware of their pivotal roles and the great impact they make on the society; their roles in home building and contributions to the upbring-

alongside Akeredolu were Chief Nathaniel Adesoji the State Chairman of ACN, the Director General of the Campaign Organisation, Chief Tayo Alasoadura, Senator Ajayi Boroffice, Ifedayo Abegunde, Jaiyeola Ajata, Ade Adetimehin, Mr. Adegboyega Adedipe and other party leaders in the state.

ing of our children.

“If we help them, we are helping ourselves; we are helping our state and our country. Because, most of them are practically the bread winners of their families; their efforts in ensuring that food are on the table for their families; that their children school fees are paid are unquantifiable. You, our mothers, are nation builders because from those little stalls that you trade, you do all these.

“So we will not only build more markets for you, but we will give you soft loans to trade with, so that you can continue to assist our society, “Mimiko assured the women.

The Governor at Ipele Town equally addressed the youth, especially the students on the need to vote for his government. He noted that his struggle should be theirs; owing to the quality of education they have been having in the state and at a very low

tuition fee in the past three and a half years.

His words: “Our students, this struggle is also yours because if you do your analysis, you will find out that your stake is in the Labour Party (LP). In all our tertiary institutions, you pay between N25,000 and N30,000. In Osun State, for example, you know how much your counterparts pay; you know how much they pay in the South West. So, this is your own struggle too; you must choose between continuing to pay N25,000 or N250,000. The choice is yours, so you must come out and vote massively for us.

The Governor was also in Iyere Owo and Owo communities where he campaigned for vote with an assurance to the people to complete all the on-going developmental projects in the areas, including the multi-million dualisation.

Okitipupa on Sunday.

The governorship candidate of the PDP, Chief Olusola Oke, received them The defectors and their supporters dumped Labour Party for the Peoples Democratic Party, because of good programmes of PDP, which they said were well designed to transform the lives of the common people in the state.

They said the ruling party was not in any way interested in the development of the riverine area.

They said the OSOPADEC under Labour Party had only served as intervention agency for a few leaders of the party thereby encouraging the diversion of the billions accrued to the agency into the private pockets of a few politicians in the Labour Party.

“The sufferings of our people is very great in the hands of the Labour Party, we thought they would be able to add value to our lives but the reverse is the case. After watching events closely, we decided to dump the party for a more progressive party like the PDP, which had been tested and trusted in our local government area.

“We have decided to join hands with the leaders of the PDP in order to allow the good works they have done in our area to continue.” Alabere said.

DAILY SUN Tuesday, October 2, 2012,13

AREWA 12 ABU academics promoted profs

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he Vice Chancellor of the Ahmadu Bello Uiversity Zaria, Professor Abdullahi Mustapha has announced the promotion of 12 senior academics to the rank of professors and associate professors.

A statement signed by the Media Adviser to the Vice Chancellor, Mal Waziri Isa Gwantu , said the Vice Chancellor announced the names of the newly promoted professors at the university’s 450th Senate meeting.

Those promoted to the rank of professors include Dr Ike Ekaete Ike of the Vocational and Technical Education Department, Dr. A.M Suleiman of the Department of Pharmaceutical and Drug Development, Dr Sunday Olusegun Ajike of the Department of Dental Surgery and Dr. J. A.Y Shebayan of the Department of Agronomy.

Those promoted to the rank of associate professors include the institution’s branch chairman of the Association of Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) who doubles at the Deputy Dean of Student, Dr M.K Aliyu of the Department of Archaeology and Dr Z.A Gundu also of the same department.

Others are Dr, M.S Bawa, Dr. O.K Victor, Dr. G.A Adeshina and Dr L.K Muyideen of the departments of Education, Human Physiology, Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Physics respectively.

Dr.M.B Muazu of the department of Electrical Engineering and Dr. Moshood Abiola Raji of the department of Veterinary Pathology and Microbiology were also among those that were promoted to the rank of associated professors.

Kwara govt pledges to prosecute corrupt LG officials From LAYI OLANREWAJU, Ilorin

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overnor Abdulfatah Ahmed of Kwara State has said his administration has resolved to prosecute local government officials involved in bloated personnel or overhead expenditure.

Ahmed made this known to directors of personnel management and treasurers of the councils during a meeting with the officials at Government House, Ilorin.

The governor who also expressed readiness to get actual wage bill of each council area, thereby directed the DPM’s and treasurers in the 16 local government areas in the state to expunge names of ghost workers in salary vouchers as the first step towards fiscal discipline at the council level.

According to him, “all those involved in the bloating of expenditure, either in personnel or overhead cost would be prosecuted. We will conduct a detailed check to plug loopholes.”

Ahmed, who ordered the council officials to present authentic personnel cost documents of council workers to the commissioner for local government immediately said: “I am determined to get the actual wage bill of each local government. Even if it requires us to ask every staff to receive payment from the table of the governor.”

He noted that his government had warned of financial recklessness of some councils which he said was due to connivance of directors of personnel management, treasurers and other top council officials.

Saraki salutes Nigerians whose vision, tenacity won independence From LAYI OLANREWAJU, Ilorin

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he senator representing Kwara Central at the upper chamber, Senator Bukola Saraki has saluted daughters and sons of Nigeria whose vision and tenacity of purpose won the nation its independence.

Saraki, in an independent statement noted that, “ for a long time, our country has not found it easy in ensuring that our history is written so that in the future, our people will be able to draw useful lessons from the events that have led to the creation of Nigeria from the 1914 amalgamation and subsequently the October 1st 1960 independence. “ We have come of age as a people, grappled with many challenges, some of these have adversely affected our level of development, but more importantly these challenges havemade us stronger and more united as a nation.”

The immediate past governor of Kwara State said the promise of independence was yet to be fully felt in all spheres of our lives; however, this does not diminish our commitment and hope for the Nigeria of our dream.

According to him,”the last one year has been very tumultuous in the history of our dear country, from security challenges, to economic uncertainty, oil spillages, flooding and most recently food crisis. Our country could not have been immune to all these challenges as some are natural occurrences, man-made or a result of global economic crisis.

•Bauchi State Deputy Governor, Alhaji Sagir Saleh (right), sympathising with Bauchi State the PDP Organising Secretary, Alhaji Mohammed Sade, after his release by gunmen who abducted him in Bauchi.

44 female pilgrims deported from Saudi Arabia From NOAH EBIJE, Kaduna

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gain, the Saudi Arabian authorities have deported another group of 44 female pilgrims from the Holyland.

They were deported on allegations of violation of the Saudi policy on Muharram.

The affected pilgrims are 19 from Kaduna and 25 from Kebbi states. A report monitored on the Hausa Service of

the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) in Kaduna yesterday said the women were flown to Yola Airport where they are currently awaiting return to their states.

About 1000 female pil-

grims have so far been denied entry into the Holyland, a development that has since caused diplomatic row between the Federal Government and Saudi Arabia.

Boko Haram threatens wives of govt officials …Confirms arrest of spokesman

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he leader of a radical Islamist sect Boko Haram has threatened the wives of Nigerian security agents and government officials in a new Internet video, while denying his group’s involvement in peace talks to end the violence that has claimed hundreds in the country’s northern areas.

In a video uploaded on Sunday to YouTube, Abubakar Shekau, the sect’s leader also denied claims that the spokesman of Boko Haram had been killed by Nigeria’s military. He insisted that the group would continue to “follow our religion” and carry out attacks in Nigeria’s predominantly Muslim North.

The Associated Press could not immediately authenticate the video on Monday, but it appeared to be from the sect and followed the pattern of other videos previously released by the group. In it, Shekau appears relaxed, wearing a checkered red-andwhite Keffiyeh scarf. A Kalashnikov assault rifle leans against the wall behind him.

Speaking in the Hausa language, Shekau said that Nigeria’s military and security agencies have seized 10 women who are wives of Boko Haram members. He claimed the women had been raped by the captors, though

he did not elaborate on how he knew that. Those arrested by police in Nigeria often face torture, sexual abuse and the potential of being killed “extra-judicially,” human rights groups have repeatedly charged.

At one point in the video, Shekau laughed and said: “You should wait and see what’s going to happen to your own wives.”

Shekau repeatedly denied that the group was in peace talks with the Federal

Government and promised more attacks. Representatives of the Federal Government have made that claim several times in recent weeks, but the only attempt at talks through intermediaries failed several months ago when details leaked out in local newspaper reports.

The sect leader also claimed that the group’s spokesman, commonly called Abul Qaqa, was still alive.

Shekau did not give any details on that claim, which came after soldiers in Nigeria’s North said they

killed the spokesman and another of the sect’s operational leaders outside of the city of Kano.

Boko Haram, which means “Western education is sacrilege” in Hausa, has been blamed for killing more than 690 people this year alone, according to an AP count.

The group wants the Federal Government to release its imprisoned members and implement strict Shariah law across Nigeria, which is largely divided into a Christian South and a Muslim North.

Don’t hurry back to your homes, NAFDAC DG advises flood victims EJEMBI, predicament, however, urged them to take it as an act of God rather than blame anys the flood water starts body.

He maintained that now to recede in Benue, displaced persons that the water had begun to go have been urged not to be in a down, the people should not hurry to go back to their rush to their homes as most of homes to avoid deaths occa- the homes would have been sioned by outbreak of deceas- infested with mosquitoes and es and incidences of col- other dangerous reptiles.

“We in NAFDAC are conlapsed buildings. cerned about your health and Director General of National Agency for Food that is why we have come to and Drug Administration and ensure that the food, water Control (NAFDAC), Dr. Paul and drugs you are taking in Orhii gave the advice when the camp are of good quality. he visited the three camps We are here to ensure that established by the Benue whatever you are taking does State Government to accom- not fall short of the correct modate those who were dis- standard.”

He maintained that his visit placed by the flood.

Orhii, who commiserated was to complement the with the people on their efforts of government both at

From ROSE Makurdi

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the state and federal level, stressing that it was the state Governor, Dr. Gabriel Suswam who called to inform him about the flood while he was out of the country. He also advised them to tarry a little while so that engineers could certify the buildings strong enough for them to continue to live in to avoid cases of collapsed buildings, which could result in massive destruction of lives and property.

The NAFDAC DG also enjoined the flood victims that rather than engage in quarrels and rancour, they should use the opportunity of their stay in camp to make new friends, adding that such friendship could last a life time.

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DAILY SUN

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

DAILY SUN Tuesday, October 2, 2012,

15

Foreign Affairs South Africa tries Henry Okah for terrorism A

s Nigeria commemorated its 52nd Independence Day, the man believed to be behind terrorist attacks during the country’s celebrations two years ago also appeared in court in South Africa.

Henry Okah faces 13 charges including terrorism for the attack in the Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, where 12 people were killed and dozens more were injured.

The streets were cordoned off and inside the court there was tight screening.

Okah is believed to be behind Nigeria’s Independence Day bombings on October 1, two years ago.

When two cars exploded in the capital Abuja, the militia group, The Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND), claimed responsibility for the attacks.

Two years later, Okah is finally in court and the state says it will prove his involvement in masterminding the attack.

An estimated 50 witnesses will be called and some of them are men who participated in the bombings.

The state will also use audio recordings, visuals and cell phone records. “We believe that we have a watertight case against Henry

Okah,” says the National Prosecuting Authority’s (NPA), Phindi Louw.

But Okah’s wife and his supporters charge that the evidence was fabricated.

Azuka Okah, Henry okah’s wife, says that the police have no evidence, while the Niger Delta’s

Youth Coalition’s, Wemike Douglas, says that Okah is being used as a political scape-goat.

Okah sat stone-faced as his 13 charges were read.

His lawyers will call 143 witnesses to testify. They also want him released on bail.

Today, the Minister of Niger

Delta Affairs and Okah’s long time friend testified for the state. He testified that Okah was widely respected.

His cross examination continues tomorrow. As Henry Okah appeared in court today, there was no formal commemoration of Independence Day for fear of attacks.

African Union troops enter Kismayo

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he first Somali government and African Union troops are reported to have entered the strategic Somali port of Kismayo, witnesses and officials say.

They have been battling the al-Shabab militia for control of the city.

On Saturday, the al-Qaedaaligned militants said they

Suicide attack in Afghanistan claims 14

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Taliban suicide bomber rammed a motorcycle packed with explosives into a joint United States-Afghan patrol on yesterday, killing 14 people including three Americans in the latest attack on an increasingly fraught program to help Afghan forces take over security to enable foreign troops withdraw from the country over the next two years.

The attack followed more American casualties over the weekend that pushed the U.S. military’s death toll for the 11-year-war above 2,000 — a figure that has climbed steadily in recent months as attacks on the socalled ‘‘partnering’’ initiative have risen.

Joint patrols between NATO and Afghan forces,

like the one targeted Monday, have been limited following a tide of attacks by Afghan soldiers and police on their inter-

national allies. Last month, the U.S. military issued new orders that require units to get approval from superiors

•Afghan police secure the site of a suicide bombing in Khost, South of Kabul, Afghanistan, yesterday. Photo:

before conducting operations with Afghans. Two weeks later, U.S. officials said most missions were being conducted with Afghans again, though the system of approvals remained in place.

The close contact — coalition forces working side by side with Afghan troops as advisers, mentors and trainers — is a key part of the U.S. strategy for putting the Afghans in the lead as it and other nations prepare to pull out their last combat troops by the end of 2014.

But the rising death toll for international troops has raised troubling questions about whether they will achieve their aim, boosting calls inside the alliance for a pullout as soon as possible and jeopardizing the goal of training the Afghans to fully secure their country.

had withdrawn from Kismayo after an AU military assault.

Kenyan and Somali forces had launched a beach assault on the Islamist group’s last major bastion the day before, but had met some resistance.

Reports as to the size and make-up of the AU contingent have been mixed.

One resident told the Journalists that a small infantry unit of 11 Somali soldiers had entered the city from the west and were patrolling on foot on the main roads of Kismayo, while another said he had seen both Kenyan and Somali troops entering the city centre from the airport.

Around 100 troops were seen by a tribal elder in Kismayo taking over a police station and setting up an outpost on top of a tall building.

Somali government spokesman in Kismayo Mohamed Faarah Daher told the journalists that AU and Somali forces had gone in to the city to establish security for the population, and had also taken up positions at the airport and sea port.

Kenyan troops are part of an African force trying to wrest control of Somalia from militants for the new United Nations-backed president.

16 DAILY SUN

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

NewsPlus Anambra flood

Gov Obi’s entourage trapped T

he flood in Anambra State almost claimed a major casualty at the weekend when the entourage of Governor Peter Obi was trapped by the raging water, compelling him to abandon the vehicles and wade through the waist-high flood.

Arrangements for Independence Day celebration in the state were scuttled last minutes Sunday night, when the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mr. Oseloka Obaze, intimated Obi of the impending doom at Ogbaru if people were not evacuated immediately owing to the rampaging flood in the area. The governor promptly swung into action, delegating the Independence Day ceremonies to his deputy

as he personally spearheaded efforts to move the people in the area to a safe place.

Obi had defied security and safety advice to personally supervise the evacuation exercise, stressing that people’s lives take precedence over celebration. He went to Ogbaru and spoke to the people to leave all their property and be evacuated to safe places.

However, when the governor was coming out from Osamalla, flood had already covered the entire road though which he would leave. The governor and his team had to wade through the flood, which reached their waists, to safety.

At each of the communities, Akili-Ogidi, Akili-Ozizor, Amiyi, Atani, Mputu, Obeagwe, Ochuche, Odekpe, Ogbakuba,

Ogwu-Aniocha, Agwuikpele, Ohita, Okpoko, Ossomala, Umunankwo, Umuodu, Umuzu, the governor told them why they should be evacuated and promised them that the government will continue to assist them till the flood is over and even to rehabilitate them thereafter.

The governor also toured parts of Onitsha that are also affected by flood, especially Harbour Industrial Area. He waded through flood to visit all the factories affected by flood, some of which are Pokobros, Krisoral, Bororo pipes and profiling. He assured them the government will stand by them.

One of the Chief Executive Officers of the companies visited, Chief Emmanuel

Eziokwu, thanked the governor for coming to sympathise with them and lamented that they suffered heavy losses as the flood had destroyed equipment and products worth billions of naira.

Governor Obi also visited Iyi-owa Odekpe areas of Ogbaru, where canoe peddlers are making brisk business evacuating people. He encouraged them to move to camps set up by the government and that they would be adequately taken care of.

The Anglican Bishop of Ogbaru Diocese, Rt. Rev. Samuel Ezeofor, who was part of the rescue and evacuation team, thanked the governor for identifying with the people.

Many buses were seen along the road evacuating people to safe areas.

Obi at Iyiowa Odekpe, a community also affected by the flood

Obi with Obaze (left)

Obi with Bishop Ezeofor, (on the Gov’s right) who is part of the team

Obi inside Bororo Pipe and Profiling Industry, one of the affected companies at Onitsha Harbour industrial area

Gov. Obi, counselling one of the victims who is evacuating his farm produce

Journalists wading through the flood with Gov.Obi

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

DAILY SUN

17

NewsPlus

By TOPE ADEBOBOYE

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is regime is certainly not the most loved by his countrymen, and it is understandable. Fifty-two years after independence, the country still gropes in the dark, literally and metaphorically, and there seems to be no light at the end of the long tunnel.

But to aides of President Goodluck Jonathan, the transformation agenda of the present administration has started working wonders in the country.

Special Adviser to the President on Research, Documentation and Strategy, Mr. Oronto Douglas, insists that the negative hoopla about the perceived lack of direction of the present administration is misplaced and unnecessary.

The presidential adviser recently held a session with select journalists in Lagos during which he highlighted his principal’s achievements since his election in May, last year. The event was also used to unveil the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Public Affairs, Dr. Doyin Okupe, to the journalists.

Douglas and Okupe presented a book, entitled Sure and Steady Transformation Progress Report Volume 1, detailing the administration’s efforts and achievements.

The book was reviewed by Dr. Otive Igbuzor, President of the Institute of Strategic Management, Nigeria, and Executive Director, African Centre for Leadership, Strategy & Development.

Explaining the reasons for the publication, Douglas said Nigerians deserved to be kept abreast of the many great jobs being done by the 30 ministries of the present administration and how Jonathan’s transformation agenda was impacting on his countrymen and women.

According to the president’s adviser, the men and women that constitute Jonathan’s cabinet are mostly technocrats, averring that the president has deliberately put round pegs in round holes to achieve results for the betterment of the country. He said the women too have never had it so good, with 35 per cent of Jonathan’s cabinet taken up by the female folks.

Douglas took his guests through the publication, explaining how the federal ministries have been meeting the targets set for the various sectors by the president. In agriculture, aviation, education, health, power and other sectors, the lawyer and activist said Jonathan has been doing a yeoman’s job since Nigerians gave him the mandate to lead the country.

In the agriculture sector, for instance, Douglas explained that a lot of positive things have happened in the last one year. He insisted that the ministry has been able to record significant achievements in agricultural policy reforms, transformation of several crops, institutional reforms and international donor support for the

How Jonathan keeps his promises to Nigerians, by aides

Douglas

agricultural transformation agenda. He explained further that the corruption that has ravaged the sector for over 40 years in its distribution of fertilisers has finally been eliminated. Until the fraud was successfully tackled, only 11 per cent of farmers benefitted from the fertiliser distribution.

According to the president’s aide, “the Jonathan administration intends to create some 3.5 million jobs in the agricultural sector, from rice, cassava, sorghum, cocoa and cotton value chains, with many more jobs to come from other value chains under implementation.”

The book explained how the government started exporting dried cassava chips to China last July, saying Nigeria would be making an annual fortune of $136 million from that project. The book also informed that it would be the first time that Nigeria would be achieving commercial scale exports of dried cassava chips. The government’s goal, it was learnt, was to turn Nigeria, which is the world’s largest producers of cassava, into the world’s largest processors of the crop.

Other achievements of the administration in the sector were also presented.

In the aviation sector, Douglas also blew his principal’s trumpet.

He noted that aviation is being repositioned as a strategic sector fundamental to the growth of key economic sectors, including travel and tourism, agriculture, rural development, trade and commerce, manufacturing and other

Okupe

non-oil sectors. It was learnt that an aviation master plan had been developed to totally reposition the sector even as Douglas insisted that a lot of work is already being done to implement that master plan. Besides growing domestic airlines, embarking on more safety programmes and other critical capacity building projects, Douglas said the present administration is currently rebuilding old airports across the country. Five new airports are also being built across the country, he said.

Speaking about the government’s strides in defence, Douglas said so many initiatives had seen the light of day under Jonathan. It was under the administration, he noted, that the first Nigeria-made Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC) was built by the Nigerian Army, just as the NNS Andoni, the first Made-in-Nigeria warship was commissioned in June this year.

“The process didn’t start under him,” he admitted, “but Dr. Jonathan sped up the process and we were able to achieve the commissioning of the warship this year.”

Douglas regretted that a lot of people are ignorant of the goingson in the education sector. He recalled that Jonathan gave approval for the establishment of about 400 schools for almajeri kids in the Northern areas. He said Jonathan was so concerned about the plight of these vulnerable kids that he insisted that special schools be constructed to take care of their education. Already, 32 of the schools have been completed

while a total of 102 would be ready for commissioning by December. By 2015, the entire 400 schools would have been completed, he said. That, he noted, was besides the government’s efforts for the education of the girl-child, technical education as well as its establishment of nine new federal universities. In the federal capital, the government is building the Abuja metro line project, the 10-lane Airport Road, hospitals, water dams and many other projects, says Douglas.

Also speaking, Okupe noted that it was highly unfortunate that some people had believed the lies being spun by the enemies of the Jonathan administration that the president was doing nothing. He described his boss as a very serious-minded, focused and straightforward individual, one that is of a different hue from the average Nigerian politician. Okupe said Jonathan is very passionate about transforming Nigerians, saying the president is very determined to leave the country better than he met it.

On the power sector, Okupe said it is obvious, even to the blind, that the reforms in that sector are already yielding positive fruits. Okupe said everyone now testifies to the fact that power has become more stable across the country, a manifestation of the Jonathan government’s hard work in that sector. He agreed that the rainy season usually leads to a marginal improvement in power supply due to rising water levels in Kainji and Shiroro Dams, but

he said the present improvement in the power sector has nothing to do with the rains. He noted that projects being done under the National Integrated Power Project (NIPP) projects that had been abandoned before President Jonathan came into power have been resuscitated, leading to the injection of about 1, 150 megawatts to the national grid.

“President Jonathan declared an emergency in the power sector some months ago, and that is now yielding fruits,” Okupe noted.

“We have more than enough gas to power these NIPP projects, and I am informed that between now and December, Nigeria will hit an all-time high of about 7, 000 megawatts. And this is a government that came in with just under 2, 000 megawatts. Now if that is not performance, tell me the definition of performance. What that means is that by that time, most Nigerian cities would be enjoying power non-stop for between 16 and 18 hours a day. And it will come to pass.”

Okupe enjoined Nigerians to be patient with Jonathan, saying Nigeria is a vast land with hundreds of ethnic groups. In his words, meeting the expectations of 160 million Nigerians is a herculean task. He assured that his principal was already pleasantly disappointing his critics.

“I’m aware that the Ministry of Works, for instance, has built about 20 new roads, rehabilitated about 79 and working on 81 roads in the last nine months. These are projects that are being done by this administration. We must applaud the president,” he stated.

Igbuzor, while reviewing the book, noted that the publication has provided an answer to the question of what has been happening in the administration for the past one year. He noted, however, that the focus should be on the impact of these projects on the masses. He also tasked the federal government to highlight achievements of the departments and agencies in future editions of the book.

“Future editions should address the big issues that are germane to transformation: political transformation, economic transformation, social transformation and cultural transformation. It is theoretically possible for ministries, departments and agencies to be carrying out activities and making achievements without transformation taking place,” he said.

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DAILY SUN Tuesday October 2, 2012

Atiku’s call for restructuring of Nigeria

T

he recent call by former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, for a restructuring of the country along regional lines has again highlighted the structural imbalance in the administration of the country. Atiku, who re-opened the age-old debate on the structure of the Nigerian polity at the 2012 Leadership Conference and Awards Ceremony in Abuja on September 18, said the country’s current governance structure which concentrates too much power and resources in the central government is inimical to the development of the country.

He said that since the States are too materially and politically weak to provide good governance, the country should be restructured along the extant six geopolitical zones as regions, with the current states existing as provinces of the six regions. He insisted that the regions have the wherewithal to survive and prosper even without oil as they did in the past. According to him: “The immense development strides achieved by our First Republic leaders were achieved without oil revenues, yet we have for over 40 years now been behaving as though nothing can be achieved without oil revenues.”

Atiku advocated redesigning of the nation’s skewed federalism and advised Nigerians to think more about production rather than distributing and sharing of revenue. He told the gathering: “I do not know of any country in the world that has developed just by its leaders gathering in their capital city every month to share revenues from rent.”

We find merit in Atiku’s recommendations. There is no arguing the fact that the present structure of Nigeria is inexpedient to the country’s quest for national development. Nigeria is supposedly a Federation, yet there are no true federating units. Revenue sharing formula is sharply skewed against the federating units to the advantage of the federal government.

As federating units, the states ought to have co-ordinate powers with the federal government to which they, under a true federation, should grant certain powers to co-ordinate the country.

But under Nigeria’s peculiar federation, this is not so. Our federation bristles with inconsistencies, both fiscal and structural. The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, instead of rightly positioning and empowering the federating states that make up our federation, is an amalgam of federalism, unitarism, secularism and theocracy at the same time. This is not how federations are run, as can be seen with administration of other federations such as the United States of

America (USA) where each federating unit is autonomous with its own constitution and certain other paraphernalia of self-administration.

Under a true federation, federating units agree on the powers to allocate to the central government. These powers are used by the centre on behalf of the units that ceded powers to it. The implication of this is that it is the units that create the centre, not the other way round. Political power will, therefore, be centripetal, and not centrifugal.

In the first Republic, Nigeria had semi-autonomous federating units in the regions, each with its flag, insignia, courts of appeal and police. There was also fiscal federalism, with the regions committing only certain portions of their revenue to the centre.

But our federation, today, is more unitary then federal. The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria says that no state shall adopt state religion. Yet, the same constitution provides for sharia courts. This is contradictory under an arrangement that is not truly federal.

Instead of promoting production and autonomy of the federating units, all the 36 states go to Abuja monthly to collect doles from the Federation Account. The result is that there is no attention to agriculture, production and other efforts that could make the states self-sufficient. Nigeria, consequently, has a mono-product economy based on a finite resource, oil. This is the gargantuan problem confronting the nation that makes Atiku’s call for a return to strong regions attractive, because the states are definitely not strong enough for the challenge of autonomy and self-governance. The states, weakened and atomized as they are, lack the capacity to meet the challenge of autonomy.

Regionalism, as Atiku has suggested, can provide the platform for stronger federating units that can exact autonomy in most sectors of national life, including policing, and fiscal independence, from the centre.

Strong, self-governing regions with states as their provinces can devolve powers for defence, foreign affairs and other mutually- determined sectors to the federal government while pursuing their destinies in an atmosphere of competitive fiscal federalism as Nigeria had in the First Republic. Under this arrangement, the items on the Federal Government’s exclusive legislative list will be significantly reduced, while giving more power and responsibilities to the regions. This is the kernel of Atiku’s proposal, which we find worthy of consideration in Nigeria’s quest for a strong and prosperous nation.

COMMENT

Send your short and crisp letters to: letters@sunnewsonline. com.

LETTER Is Nigeria moving forward or backward?

TODAY the realities before us whereby, everything that could support our claim as an independent country socially, economically and culturally are at its lowest ebb. Every institution of the three arms of government, executive, legislature and judiciary are bedeviled with corrupt officials and therefore has become weak. To the extent that most times, Nigeria depends on foreign interventions to provide solutions to the numerous challenges facing her. For example, our law enforcement agents ie the police, state security service(sss) and other paramilitary agents are too corrupt that we are seemingly incapable to meet our security challenges.

The most baffling is our inability to avail the populace adequate food in the face of vast fertile land and potentials to grow almost every crop under the sun. Expectedly, our food import runs into trillions of Naira every year. Even the strength of the Naira is dependent on the dollar and other forex.

Need we talk about our industries, as at the last count, over 500 industries in Kano state alone had gone extinct. The situation can be replicated in almost every part of the country. More are still disappearing as investors now leave the country in droves to places like Ghana, Angola and South Africa among others where their investment thrive better. Of course, this is accompanied with capital flight which worsens the economy the more. It would so continue as bad governance persists.

It is against this backdrop that the postulation of late Mbakwe many years ago is considered relevant. Come to think of it, the ten years extension of colonial rule is even conservative. We need to remain under the colonial masters longer to find our feet and perhaps be like South Africa.

Regrettably, the reason for our agitation to be independent ie to harness our resources and manage them and eventually better our lots is no longer tenable as we have failed woefully in this regard. The resources we should have acquired

THE DIRECTORATE TONY ONYIMA Managing Director /Editor-in-Chief FEMI ADESINA Deputy MD/Deputy Editor-in-Chief ETHEL NMEZI Executive Director, Finance/Admin ALAN JONES Executive Director, Technical PAUL ONYIA Executive Director Marketing ERIC OSAGIE Executive Director, Special Services EDITORIAL STEVE NWOSU Editor, Daily ONUOHA UKEH Editor, Saturday FUNKE EGBEMODE Editor, Sunday SHOLA OSHUNKEYE, Editor, Magazines ABDULFATAH OLADEINDE Deputy Editor, Daily FEMI ADEOTI Deputy Editor, Daily IKENNA EMEWU Deputy Editor, Nation’s Capital BRUCE MALOGO, Deputy Editor, Saturday BEIFOH OSEWELE, Deputy Editor, Magazines EMEKA OKOROANYANWU Group Business Editor CHIDI OBINECHE Political Editor KENNY ASHAKA Bureau Chief (Central) CHRIS ANUCHA Acting Bureau Chief, (South-South) CHIDI NNADI Bureau Chief, (South-East) YINKA FABOWALE Bureau Chief (South-West) ISMAIL OMIPIDAN Bureau Chief (North-west) EDITORIAL BOARD AMANZE OBI Chairman, Editorial Board CORPORATE SERVICES NETA NWOSU A.G.M. Corporate Services ADVERTISING/MARKETING DEMOLA ABIOYE Business Development Manager NNENA SHUAIB Asst. Manager Business Dev. (Abuja) SALES & OPERATIONS DAMOLA LAJUMOKE AGM, Sales & Operations NWOKOCHA OBI Sales & Distribution Manager REMI QUADRI Manager, Copy Sales FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION OBIOMA OGUKWE Accountant JOHNSON OGWUMIKE Internal Audit Manager PATRICK ENILAMA Principal Human Resource Manager IFY ANYALECHI Procurement & General Services Manager

MISSION ‘To practise journalism in the classical newspaper tradition of presenting the news and features in an exciting style, with impact, objectivity and appeathat generate returns to all stakeholders: the society, the investors and the practitioners’

and utilized we now allow into the hands of expatriates unsolicited as we buy their finished goods and services since we have no choice having failed to grow our own industries.

Former President of Ghana John Kufuor at a recent lecture in Abuja tagged security, 'development and national transformation,' said that Nigeria is backward in spite of her human and material resources.

It therefore, stands to reason that it is better we allow them to come back and govern us and at least, work for the resources they hitherto acquired with the slightest ease. It is now a mantra among some observers that Nigeria, inadvertently develop other countries by importing their goods and services at the expense of their own industries thereby enriching them.

Equally worrisome, is the current challenge of mass movement of people and their goods around the country. Due to the state of our transportation system, including the air, land, rail and water ways, traveling, for instance by air, leaves much to be desired. Flights are hardly available. One who wishes to catch a morning flight might end up with night flight if lucky. In some cases he does not get the flight at all. This also comes exorbitant increase in air fare. The situation is so bad that the minister for aviation has been globe trotting recently to shop for investors, to establish airlines

in the country.

The roads which should have provided alternatives are not even better. To put it mildly, the roads are in deplorable conditions, they are often referred to as death traps, with the result that many dread traveling by road, and those who do, end up doing extra hours to arrive their destinations if lucky, some die in the process.

The railways are virtually not functioning. In act most Nigerians remember in nostalgia, when last they traveled by railways. Of cause these railways chiefly had remained the way the colonial masters left them. The waterways are worst of as they seemingly not considered in the scheme of things.

The after effect is that movement in and around Nigeria, is now a nightmare. Some people believe that at the rate the situation is deteriorating Nigerians may be grinded to a total halt eventually. Conditions like this demands that those in authority should intervene and ameliorate the scenario. Unfortunately, our office holders who largely lack leadership traits seem not to be either interested or are bereft of political will to provide succor.

It is in the light of this that the clarion call for colonial masters to takeover becomes expedient.

Isaac Ayozie Lagos CMYK

DAILY SUN

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

19

Re: Pretenders to Anambra oil fields Tuesday with N ot very often does a columnist know the kind of reactions his opinion on any matter will generate. The nature of Nigerian society today has made virtually every issue a subject of intense controversy and heated debate. However, some issues are so red-hot that you can predict at the drop of the pen that they will generate a huge tempest. It is so because certain people who harvest in crisis look forward to controversial issues as an alibi to foment trouble and cause socio-economic discontent. Such was the topic of this column on September 25, entitled: “pretenders to Anambra oil fields.” It is all about the official commissioning of Orient Refinery by President Goodluck Jonathan on August 30, which puts Anambra State as one of the oil producing states in the country, and by that position, may very soon begin to enjoy the 13 percent derivation meant exclusively for the oil bearing states in the country.

I doubt if the President himself knew that his inauguration of the Orient petroleum plant will attract claims like claps of thunder from Enugu and Kogi State governments. Passions have been rising to a frightening floodtide since these two States opened the floodgate of claims and counter-claims to the ownership of the oil wells duly allocated to Orient Petroleum Plc as far back as eleven years ago.

I called these claimants as Pretenders to the Anambra oil fields, and for good reason(s). I raised one vital question: why did these two states - Enugu and Kigu - have to sleep on their rights all these years which approximates to the doctrine of “laches and acquiesce”, until orient and Anambra state, are getting ready to reap he fruits of their investments and hard work? This is not the sort of question with easy answer. Readers responses attest that such a hot issue, especially an oily matter - is bound to inflame passion and intension. A columnist may even be accused of taking sides. That's not unusual.

Such accusation you may find among the responses published below. But one thing is certain: this matter is not going to be over very

Dan Onwukwe

08023022170 dan_onwukwe@yahoo.com soon. It is an issue that may go all the way to the apex court and yet unresolved. But solution must be found quickly based on truth, fairness and justice. Its all about resource control.

Here are excerpts of some of the readers' responses. Mr. Dan, your piece of September 25, 2012 is thought - provoking. These people want to fight simply because of the oil wells and its location. This is essentially because our is not well organized, indeed wrongly organized. Nobody is interested in what the oil companies are doing in the Niger Delta. I think what should bother the claimants is not the location of the oil but the social system that pauperizes the toiling masses in the midst of plenty.

From Amos Ejimonye Isikwuato, Abia State.

Dan, Enugu and Kogi states are not claiming ownership of Orient Petroleum. They are only saying that part of the oil field is located in their states. Chief Emeka Anyaoku, (who is chairman) of Orient Petroleum) admits that part of the oil field is indeed located in these states (Enugu and Kogi States) So, what's the palaver? If your neighbour's building encroaches on your land, will you forfeit that part just because you did not help him draw the house plan? Or because you were sleeping and suddenly woke up to build? Of course, you must assert your right of ownership.

That's how I see what Enugu and Kogi state are doing by laying claims to that oil well.

Dr. P. Nwike Dep Gov., Anambra, 1992/93 For me, what Enugu and Kogi states are contending is not the right to be included into

has done? If you don't know, I advise you to retrace your steps, because if you start this “war”, you can't win it. Remember that Ojukwu's propaganda couldn't secure Biafra .

From 07038326555 Mr. Dan , I want to tell you that Anambara can invest a billion dollar in the oil fields , who cares? It matters to us when an oil well drilled on Kogi soil is handed to Anambara.

That, I must tell you, will never happen.

From 08055963126 Dan, this controversy is simple to understand as far as I am concerned. The matter should be looked, at this way: clearing of weeds on another man's land, even the cultivation of the same does not make it your own.

From 08035653286 Re: Sanusi's currency storm Dan, thanks for your well-thought out view on the recently suspended plan by the CBN under Sanusi Lamido Sanusi to restructure the nation's currency. If that happens, the economy would have been engulfed with an unprecedented crises.

I am sure the CBN under Sanusi is confused, and the man thinks that the rest of Nigerians are fools. The may seems to be bereft of sound ideas. He should leave the stage for people who are current with happenings in the financial world to take over.

From Francis Okoye, 82 Div, Enugu The last paragraph of your write up on Sanusi three weeks ago as to whether anybody can summon the courage to stop him, is indeed the worry of many Nigerians. The CBN ma be only beaten a retreat to come back later, that Sanusi will intimidate them as usual. President Jonathan should call him to order once and for all the way his predecessor late Umaru Yar'Adua did to Prof.

Chukwuma Soludo. I think President Jonathan is not timid and should so what is necessary and stop this man called Sanusi on his tracks.

From Tobby Williams.

the ownership structure of the OPC (Operating Licence), but to be entitled to the revenue accruing from oil fields located in their communities. For example, the 13% that should come from any oil field at any community from Uzo-Uwani LGA should go to Enugu State, not Anambra State. That, to me, is the issue in contention.

From 08035075463 Dan, many thanks to your report on “pretenders to Anambra oil fields.” I wish you could publish the map of the disputed land.

With that the claimants may have something to hold on to. The argument here is not investment cost and initiative. It is necessary for the whole world to see, perhaps that will help solve the problem.

From Alphonsus 08089611955 Dan, kudos for your opinion on page 19 of Daily Dun of September 25. You rightly captured the issue. There is greed everywhere except in heaven. Even Arewa consultative Forum (ACF) recently declared its full support for Kogi as part of its Northern brotherhood. This is the sort of thing that is hampering good governance and development in the country. If oil is on the ground who told Enugu and Kogi state governments. God recognizes artificial boundaries, especially in our overpoliticized country? Let both states (Kogi and Enugu) stop this claim and go build their own refineries or be ready to pay the cost invested

by Anambra state if at all their claim holds water. We don't want anything that will lead to communal strifes. We have already had enough of these conflicts already.

From Ifeganeme 08036919248 Mr. Dan, do you know what your write up * You can reach me on twitter@ebukadan

Power sector: How transparent is privatization?

BY UCHE ANEKE

I

t is common knowledge that many Nigerians still do not believe in the transparency of the Federal Government's ongoing privatization programme. The reason for this may not be far-fetched as such activity had often been hijacked by powerful and few privileged Nigerians for their personal aggrandizement and benefit. But in spite of this belief, there is no doubt that the Federal Government has kept its word, so far, in ensuring and promoting transparency in the ongoing privatization process in the power sector.

Since the journey of true and eventual privatization of the sector began under the leadership of President Goodluck Jonathan, there has not been even one incidence of the President's interference in the process by deciding who gets what and at what price. In short, in a very characteristic and sincere manner, President Jonathan at a workshop in the Presidential Villa publicly disowned any person that would want to use his name to influence or get undue advantage over other interested bidders or investors in the ongoing privatization efforts.

The Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) whose task has been to pilot the privatization process to completion by the first quarter of 2013, according to established time frame, has not failed in its task. In short, the emerging trend from BPE's activities daily has been satisfactory and encouraging. Only recently, precisely on Tuesday, September 18, 2012, the National Council on Privatization (NCP), which is chaired by Vice President Namadi Sambo, at the Presidential Villa shortlisted 21 bidders for

10 out of the 11 electricity distribution firms in the country. The firms shortlisted for the generation companies have been invited by BPE for the financial bid, while that of distribution companies would take place on October 16, 2012. It is pertinent to note that as part of steps to ensure transparency in the privatization process, none of the two bidders for the Kaduna Distribution Company was prequalified for financial bid. The BPE declared the two bidders technically unqualified and did not hesitate in saying so.

If BPE were to be under any influence, probably a preferred bidder would have emerged out of the process. The BPE would therefore, invite fresh bids from pre-qualified bidders that paid the required $20,000 fee for the bid documents in accordance with Plan B in respect of the privatization of any unsold successor company.

Similarly, it is interesting to know that for the Afam Power Generation Company, no bidder was technically qualified. This is coming after the cancellation of the first evaluation results of bidders by the NCP following the alleged involvement of former Minister of Power's direct interest in one of the consortia that bided for the plant. The same process as in Kaduna Distribution Company will apply to get qualified bidders for the Afam Power Plant. Analysts were quick to describe this development as sufficient evidence to show that the Federal Government was bent on delivering a transparent and successful power privatization programme.

The transparency in the process has also sustained the interest and participation of the international community. This is clear evidence that the privatization has been conducted in accordance with international best

practices. For instance, when the bids for the generating companies were submitted to the BPE, late bids were rejected despite appeals from respectable quarters.

The President and the Vice President did not intervene. Even well- established companies such as Marubeni of Japan, which failed to submit a bid bond for Kainji, was disqualified from the bid process.

The Federal Government has proved that open and transparent privatization process was strictly followed. While giving assurance that the privatization of the power sector was on course, the Minister of State for Power, Darius Ishaku, stated that government would continue to maintain transparency in the process. According to him, “our task is to continue to correct lapses in the system and engage new methods to ensure the entire process is transparent.”

Stakeholders in the power sector have expressed confidence in the ongoing privatization process. In his comments, Chairman, Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), Dr. Sam Amadi, in an interview with Leadership Newspaper endorsed the transparency achieved so far in the process.

According to him, “everybody will agree that this process we are having is more qualitative than the previous ones we had, thanks to Mr. President, who has not interfered with the process.” Dr. Amadi stated that BPE has convinced everybody, including himself, by its actions so far, that the whole privatization project was not “some sweet heart deal”.

Barrister Okey Ezea, an industrialist and politician, believes that government has shown enough commitment in protecting transparency of the privatization process. He advised government to resist every pressure that would cast doubt on the integrity of the process. In the same manner, Alhaji Kabiru

Mohammed, a seasoned journalist, said the signs are clear as to the sincerity of government in ensuring a transparent privatization.

He said the greatest legacy government would leave behind is to ensure successful privatization of the power sector.

President Goodluck Jonathan in his public speeches and body language has expressed satisfaction on the conduct of the ongoing privatization of the power sector. Recently at a function, the president described the privatization of the power sector “as a transformation that has reached the point where everybody will be proud of the reform taking place.” In other to give more bite to the progress achieved so far, and to give renewed impetus to his administration's drive to significantly improve power supply across the nation, President Jonathan recomposed the Presidential Action Committee on Power and the Presidential Task Force on Power. The two bodies were charged with the responsibility of overseeing the implementation of the Federal Government's agenda on power sector reform.

Despite the enthusiasm and confidence expressed by these stakeholders, it would not be out of place to suggest to government to put on hold the proposed privatization of Kaduna Distribution Company and Afam Power Plant. Since due process has naturally schemed out the two temporarily from the ongoing bidding process, common reason dictates that they should no longer be privatized. Instead, they should be kept by the government to use as gauge to match other privatized companies so as to see if they are even supposed to be privatized in the first place.

Aneke writes from Abuja Uche_aneke@yahoo.com CMYK

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DAILY SUN Tuesday October 2, 2012

Letter to Junaid Mohammed F

BY GODWIN NZEAKAH rom the days of the Northern Elements Progressive Union (NEPU), up until the People’s Redemption Party (PRP) your name has conjured some aura not only in Kano and Northern politics but also on the national turf. Since the First Republic, ardent Students of Nigerian Politics, yours sincerely inclusive have followed your progress and performance with interest. For a better part of the period you came across not only as a progressive player but also a principled one in the true sense of the word, lending voice, weight and credibility to and sometimes breathing real life into some if not most of the ideals or concepts of your party that verged on liberal socialism. To the best of my knowledge both the NEPU and PRP stood and spoke for the down – trodden all the time, the Talakawas especially.

Enamored of centrifugal avowals, in spite of daunting odds, Aminu upheld the progressive principle to the very end. Needless, therefore, to say that when it comes to be written, Nigeria’s political history won’t be complete without a mention for the NEPU and the Bauchi Discussion Group (BDG) co-founded by Aminu in 1947/48, which for the first time stung the colonial administration and the Native Authority in Northern Nigeria with harsh criticisms like a bee, urging for reform in governance. Continuing from where BDG had left off NEPU also stood for discussion-–for peaceful dialogue–aimed at tailoring official policy to meet popular needs. Apart from Aminu Kano, your great city has also produce other political icons like Abubakar Rimi, Sidi Hamid Ali, Tanko Yakassai and Maitama Sule, the last two belong in the conservation camp, to mention but these four.

Yakassai was the first Nigerian, to the best of my knowledge, to boldly call for national confab while the military were still in power in 1992. His call, whether genuine or sham, will be determined by how much interest he shows today in the same cause as the issues that prompted his action take on scary dimensions. But genuine or not, today, as the ship of the Nigerian state continues to drift rudderless, it is imperative to recap here the thrust of Yakassai’s argument.

Before I do that let me recall that in politics as in commerce and industry Kano has always played a leading role.

Kano produced the first and foremost Nigerian multi-millionaire and ethical capitalist in the person of Alhaji Ahassan Dantata (18801955) who, leading by example, gave out loans to up-and-coming young businessmen without charging any interest. Need I also remind you that from its base in Kano NEPU successfully spearheaded agitation for many radical reforms not only in the North but also in Nigeria in general. These included that of creation of more states which Gen. Yakubu Gowon fulfilled in 1967 and abolition of the “autocratic” Native Authority system which Gen Murtala Mohammed, another product of Kano and agent of change, brought to fruition in 1976. In short, there is no gainsaying the fact that, historically in Nigeria, whether in terms of trade and commerce or industry and politics or in terms of crucial reforms aimed at a better society, Kano and its lively political class, the liberal socialists in particular, have always furnished needed leadership.

But not anymore. The great groundnut pyramids, the hides and skins as well as the legendary kolanut trains which were part and parcel of a huge produce market and envy of neighbours far and near have since disappeared in favour of a chase after petronaira. Thus in the face of the Boko Haram menace which is Nigeria’s latest plague, well-respected disciples of NEPU/PRP led by your goodself could not but be swayed by parochialism and thus misled into narrowly redefining poverty and propounding strange, cheap and inapplicable theories that stand truth and enlightenment on their heads. Nothing can be more lamentable and tragic at a time Nigeria is at another major cross roads and in dire need of intervention by men and women who, untainted and free from regional sentiments, are bold and courageous—people who will see a shovel and call it by that and no other name.

You can then imagine how extremely disappointed we feel today as those elements especially the great ideologues we had regarded as the prospective deus ex machina of our wobbly federalism decide to fiddle while Rome burns. How appalling to discover that the Aminu Kano followers from that ancient city, including our own Junaid, seem to have abandoned a rather great cause and dumped the liberal political thinking in favour of what one may call mundane, though certainly sectional political and economic avowals. What a lamentable tragedy!. Pardon me, Sir, if you take exception to my language

and all. But I believe it behoves any of your admirers, among whose number I count my humble self, to serve as your mirror since you cannot see yourself, and since you do not know that we had hoped that at the opportune moment—and that moment is now—people like you who are at home with dialectics having been groomed in the best traditions of the Bauchi Discussion Group and being amply familiar with the nature of the Nigerian nightmare, would form the arrowhead of ready initiators of the necessary dialogue aimed at salvaging our federation by giving it a new and credible union treaty.

Sir, we all need the union, though in more equitable and less lopsided and skewed form. The present generation needs it. The future generation needs it. Therefore let us get cracking today with people like you leading unto a round table if we must not fight tomorrow.

That was exactly the crux of the immortal and apparently courageous message put across to the nation in 1992 by Alhaji Tanko Yakassai (New Nigerian 6/7/92). Even though Yakassai harped on “National referendum” as against national confab, any one with half an eye knew that the man couldn’t have meant anything else but national confab.

That was why most of us were glad after the Yoruba Assembly, meeting last month in Ibadan, came out with a veritable working paper. The Southeast have since made theirs available and only recently they reproduced same for the National Assembly as presented by the Ohaneze executive. The South-south have never failed to tabulate their grievances and may have even gone further to demonstrate in practical terms through the Bayelsa Government’s action their notion of true federalism and the requisite power structure. The North is yet to follow suit and put forward any blue print either as a monolithic unit or, ideally, reduced to the more manageable but yetto-be formalized three regions Viz Northwest, Northeast and North Central. Sir, this is the challenge before you and your colleagues. The North should no longer hold everyone to ransom. The world has been moving forward. The rest of the country wants to move forward. The North must also move along and, doing so, unleash Nigeria. In a nutshell, I am saying that we must go forth before dusk, if I may parody Wole Soyinka.

Nzeakah writes from Lagos.

Governor Obi's monument I

BY OKECHUKWU ANARADO t might surprise some watchers of Anambra State politics to begin to read about Governor Peter Obi's monument. And for the less endowed in the white man's language, particularly those of them resident in Anambra State, passion might run wild in defense of the Governor's current mandate. While the first group might merely be confounded by the speed of time, the second just would not see their governor and his government as issues that are at the threshold of history - at the verge of being permanently reported in the past. Why talk of a monument whose making is unfolding still?

There is yet a third interest-class; cynics who would bite, claw and shout in efforts to attain their sworn conclusions to emasculate the novel patterns adorning the political space of Anambra State. 'What monument?', they would ask. But in all of these dispositions, the reality of passing time and its compelling dictates in sifting the bedrock of history prevails.

Before the end of March, 2014, Governor Peter Obi would have served Anambra State the maximum statutorily allowable period of eight years, representing two terms of four years each. This is an uncommon privilege unprecedented in the State.

Having taken a token look at the peculiarities of Mr. Obi's Anambra, one begins to appreciate better the value of the Governor's resilience, doggedness, ruggedness too. How else would one explain Mr. Obi's stubborn resistance of the monster that President Obasanjo's the People's Democratic Party (PDP) foisted on and sought to perpetuate in Anambra State? Indeed, the PDP nausea, exempli-

fied by the stolen mandate, seemed a blessing for Ndigbo as it exposed the post war conspiracy of clannish pretenders who not only sought to subdue Ndigbo physically but to kill their spirit. Even 'in the very before' of the totem of Igbo consciousness (apologies to Chika Okpala, Chief Zebrudaya Okoroigwe Nwogbo Alias 4.30) the people's mandate was stolen by impostors to the people's cause.

What would have been left of Ndigbo if Mr. Obi failed to lead the battle for the rescue of the heartland of the Igbo nation? The Governor's clear headedness, his sublime understanding of the character of the deprivation and his utmost commitment to resistance, made the unyielding Ikemba of blessed memory to declare uncommon support for a young man whom he identified as fighting hegemony against an endangered nation. Mr. Obi stood, fought and conquered the marauding bunch whose resolve was a systematic emasculation of Ndigbo, using Anambra State as a pilot scheme. This early struggle signaled the relevance of Mr. Obi among Ndigbo; added to this is his seminal managing of human and material resources both in governance of Anambra State and in other spheres of leadership wherever duty calls.

Having served Anambra State for over six of an eight years stretch, and judging from the transparent structure of his government, Governor Obi's scorecard could be reviewed with reasonable degree of accuracy. The indices for measuring success or failure are located in the responsibilities of government and to what extent government fulfills or neglects such duties.

Anambra State is one of the States in Nigeria that hardly go without press reportage. Its promi-

nence derives from its huge pull of human resources and the inputs of Ndi-Anambra, dead or living, in the making and sustenance of the country.

But for a greater part of Anambra's 21 years as a political entity, it recorded greater negative publicity owing to loss of direction among the crop of leaders that ran its affairs. This deviation manifested in the collapse of the system while very few individuals got so robust they could sustain parallel structures that mocked the institution of government. That was why the 'Eselus' for instance could boast of installing what served as government in the state between 2003 and 2006, just as the 'Offors' did, years earlier.

While the strains over the ownership of government raged, the entire gamut of the responsibilities of the state went prostrate: education was abandoned, the health sector was comatose; there was comprehensive infrastructural decay and unrest of every kind marked the sociopolitical clime of the state. It remained largely so until the unprecedented judiciary intervention that nullified the celebration of absurdities and declared Mr. Obi of the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) as the authentic governor of the state in March, 2006. From the date of that epochal declaration till date, Anambra State, under Governor Obi, has persisted in its march to recover the lost years and firmly situate itself among the comity of states with both vibrant economy and civilised polity. Pointers to this growth are identifiable in the resuscitation of all the sectors of the State's economy through the vehicle of Anambra Integrated Development Strategy (ANIDS), which ensures a comprehensive and effective design, budget and implementation of

simultaneous development in all sectors of the state's economy.

The health sector for instance now has some government as well as private owned hospitals and institutions accredited by relevant censor organisations. Onitsha General Hospital, Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Ihiala; Anambra State School of Nursing and Midwifery, Npor; St. Joseph's Hospital, Adazi-Nnukwu; Iyi-Enu Hospital, Ogidi and Charles Borromeo Hospital, Onitsha are representational of such interventions in the health sector. The construction and inauguration of Anambra State University Teaching Hospital, Awka, is also a phenomenal entry in the credential of Governor Obi's government.

The Civil Service has its own gains from the current government of the state. Apart from workers' increased pay package which compares favourably with what obtains in some rich states, an imposing new State Secretariat (Chief Jerome Udoji State Secretariat) which today represents the pride of Anambra State workers, stands to the credit of this administration which conceived, constructed, equipped and effectively put it to use. Today, the operations of government are run from a single pool of ministries which makes for speed and efficiency. Today, government ministries have necessary enablement like vehicles for optimal performance.

If today one seeks the monument of Mr. Peter Obi in Anambra, the new look Anambra State where reputable donor agencies jostle to identify with the success story of Mr. Peter Obi's administration beckons.

Anarado writes from Adazi-Nnukwu

Nigeria and ocean surges

BY CONSTANT NGOZI OZURUMBA ow, ocean surges are innocent natural occurrences. They could innocently occur anywhere littoral. It is noteworthy, though debatable, that there is simply no human cause for ocean surges. But even more notable is the truth that the tragedies that may follow an oceanic surge are totally dependent on human beings and their careful or careless activities in or around the coastlines. What this means is that the innocent surge will harmlessly come and go leaving nothing missing and nothing broken if there are no human interferences. We can all figure the flipside of this coin.

Ocean surges have global presences and awareness. Many countries in the world have experienced them in varying degrees, hierarchies if you please. We have hurricanes, typhoons, storms, floods, whatever form they take anywhere, one sure thing is, they do not spare a thing that willynilly happens to be in their way. Some places in the world are naturally predisposed to having these ocean surges come what may. Bangladesh is one.

The place has had ocean surges that some people there would have evacuated by now if they could.

In May 1963, they lost approximately 22,000 lives to flooding. Back in 1942, it was about 40,000.

1965 had them losing about 60,000. 1970, they lost between 150,000 and 500,000. In 1991, the deaths were between 131,000 and 138,000. Gosh! They have had worrisome shares of the disaster. Yet just this past August of 2012, BBC reported that about 85,000 people in their Myanmar area lost their homes and properties to flooding.

Japan is another place, with disasters of tsunamic proportions. Yet now, their island of Okinawa is endangered by Typhoon Bolaven. On the 7th of August, 2012 storms triggered wreckages in

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Austria and northern Italy. On August 8, 2012 people evacuated beach resorts along Mexico's Caribbean coast because of Hurricane Ernesto.

Also recently, Manila Philippines experienced an uncontrollable flooding that killed tens of people, frustrating about a million others and halting activities at the Philippine capital. Hurricane Isaac struck the south-eastern United States on August 23, 2012 passing through the New Orleans that we could recall with Hurricane Katrina, flooding nearby places, and leaving LaPlace, a town to the west of New Orleans, completely sunk under water. The Republican National Convention (RNC) was even called off because of the Hurricane Isaac. Down here in West Africa, Niger's capital city Niamey and its rural districts were struck hard by floods which shattered thousands of people, crushing thousands of homes and hundreds of fields.

Globally, oceans are having what experts call heated cyclonic activities. These activities likely get some inspiration from some human actions and or inactions.

In Nigeria now, there are increasing flooding disasters and increasing warnings of more floods and ocean surges ahead. Even the river that names Nigeria now revolts with overflows. In the very recent past many parts of the country are having floods of surprisingly devastating capacities, wiping away lives, properties, farms, roads and even bridges. The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) and the Federal Ministry of Environment warn states like Lagos, Oyo, Ogun, Kebbi, Delta, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Bauchi, Kogi, Yobe, Taraba, Zamfara, Gombe, Kano, Katsina, and Jigawa. And sadly, there could be more. Most recently, flooding in Kogi State ate up roads so much so that travellers along the road had to sell personal belongings to eat while they await-

ed some form of mercy from the flood or whatever or whomever.

And following what some experts say, one may conclude that LAGOS is some Titanic sailing to a sinking. Now my goal is to wake or keep you awake, not to scare any spirit out of you. Of course I may succeed in casting out some spirit of ignorance. That is okay you will agree. Now, at birth, Lagos was a war camp for Benin Empire warriors who named it Eko, meaning “war camp.” Wonder less now about the people's warlike spirit.

However, Portuguese explorer Rui de Sequeira visited Eko in 1472 and named it Lago de Curamo.

The name later changed into Lagos, meaning “lakes,” a name that may have been borrowed from Portugal's Lagos municipal city. Lagos is about 3,577 square kilometres with 787 square kilometres made up of lagoons and creeks: Lagos Lagoon So, whether it as a result of cushioning luxurious miseries or hiding penurious frustrations, the government, authorities and people of Lagos and Nigeria should be so very careful with how they stand in the ways of the gathering floods and ocean surges. If or when the floods or surges come and have nothing in their way, nothing will be lost but some sand which the ocean will be rightfully “reclaiming.” But as it is now, I wonder. Floods and ocean surges are largely innocent of disasters.

We make ourselves the guilty casualties. So the future of Nigeria's cities, coastal or not, should be protected rather than exposed to pretty avoidable disasters. But our governments and people would rather begin a search for where to buy or borrow an umbrella much after some rains have given us a really sickening and tomblike drenching, leaving us shivering at helpless corners.

Whereas, the true spirit of Living Alongside

Gathering Ocean Surges is one that is defensive, not one that extravagantly places lives and properties in disaster's ways. The spirit is one that always and all-ways manifests alertness rather than aloofness when faced with matters of impending dangers. The spirit will hardly find sense in say Lagosians' sinking of billions to “reclaim” or develop an area “reclaimed” or I dare say, “stolen” from ocean bodies when there are still available areas that will cost much less and not involve standing lives and properties in the way of death. I have had some time with some people who have been affected by flooding. I remember Professor Niyi Osundare crying to us about his near death, and losses to the Katrina flooding of New Orleans in 2005.

Now, some people believe it is stupid and wasteful to invest resources in the reclaimed areas.

Some think it is a form of suicidal move to live there. Some believe that investing or living there is only classy. Some just find themselves there and they have no idea of what to think or believe. And in all, the warlike spirit of Living Alongside Gathering Ocean Surges is constant, daring the gods to keep throwing their dices even with icy hearts, the people will keep living their lives as their individual spirits and wisdom or fate and capacity direct. That is the spirit of Nigeria and LAGOS; the spirit of LAGOSians in general and pointedly, that is the spirit of the advocates, the inhabitants and the patronisers of the reclaimed or endangered areas. I may not have said anything here but actually sometimes, a simple clearing of some throat is all that the wise need. Not a word.

Ozurumba writes from Ghana.

DAILY SUN Tuesday, October 2, 2012

Memories

Philip Nwosu 08176449110

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R YOU S U SEND HOTOS P OLD wosu@yahoo.co.uk phillipn e-mail:

Today in History

Student riots threaten Mexico Olympics More than 25 people were on this day in October 1968 killed during a vicious gun battle in Mexico City just days before the Olympic Games are due to begin.

Thousands of students had gathered for a meeting organised by the National Strike Council in La Plaza de las Tres Culturas in Tlatelolco to protest against the military occupation of the National Polytechnic Institute.

The protesters, many of whom were women and children, had been planning to march through a working-class suburb of the city, but by early evening military personnel in armoured vehicles had surrounded the square.

The Mexican government say “agitator groups” among the students began shooting at the crowds from buildings, which resulted in a 90-minute gun fight.

General Marcelino Garcia Barragan, Mexico’s defence minister said the army began firing into the crowd in self-defence after they found themselves targets of sniper fire from buildings in the square.

But several eye-witnesses claim the army entered the square in seven or eight armoured tanks and began shooting first.

After the fighting had subsided dozens of bodies lay strewn across the square, many more were injured.

The violence follows weeks of demonstrations by students demanding democratic reform and social justice. They have used the international focus on Mexico City because of the Olympics to promote their message.

In September, President Gustavo Díaz Ordaz, in a bid to suppress the protests and cause minimum disruption to the Olympics, ordered the military occupation of the National Polytechnic Institute in Mexico City.

1968

The Late Ladi Lawal (As Lagos NUJ chairman backing camera) inaugurating Champion Chapel NUJ exco, while Labaran Maku, current Minister of Information who was the chapel’s Internal Auditor, Grace Onuoha who was the Secretary and Ademola Babalola who was the Chairman take their oath of office at Champion Newspapers Headquarters in Ilasamaja, Lagos on June 8, 1993.

PHOTO from Ademola Babalola facebook page

Nigeria celebrates despite rain fall President Ibrahim Babangida on October 1, 1985 defied a heavy down pour to take the salute during the armed forces parade and school children’s rally to mark Nigeria’s silver jubilee anniversary celebrations in Lagos.

1985

Shortly on arrival at the parade grounds, the President alighting from his car shunned the use of a giant umbrella offered by aides as the heavens opened up. Waving aside the umbrella, the President mounted the dais flanked on both sides by the service chiefs to take the salute to the cheering and admira-

tion of the enthusiastic crowd.

President Babangida clad in full ceremonial uniform of the Nigerian Army waved to the crowd who had also defied the heavy rains to watch the occasion.

He then reviewed the parade commanded

by Lt. Colonel John Yahaya Madaki Commanding Officer 123 Guards Battalion in an uncovered landrover.

Unions welcome economic policy The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) and trade unionists on this day in October 1985 supported the ban on the importation of rice and maize and other economic measures taken by government on Independence Day but the labour leaders said workers cannot offer more sacrifices.

The Food Beverages and Tobacco Employees said they have for the last three years called for the ban since the nation had fertile land.

The Union general secretary Mr. S.K. Oyebanjo, said the ban on food importation was a correct step if it meant making Nigerians look at other food items readily available.

The food and beverage union Mr. Oyebanjo said was very concerned about the issuance of import license which he cautioned must be given only to genuine manufacturers.

He said there had been cases of individuals getting licenses to import malt when they had no breweries.

“The unions want licenses for manufacturers, not brief case directors,” he said.

1985

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DAILY SUN

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

Why we’re empowering non-natives

By BEIFOH OSEWELE

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s Senior Special Assistant, Diplomatic and Society Relations to Governor Ibrahim Shehu Shema, Alhaji Sada Salisu Rumah, is arguably the chief public relations strategist and peacemaker in Katsina State.

In the past six years that the international lawyer, politician, journalist and civil servant has held the office, he has established a track record in building bridges of understanding and cooperation among people of different ethno-religious backgrounds in the state. In fact, under his watch, the association of non-indigenes morphed into Association of Indigenous Nigerians Resident in Katsina.

By this, the non-natives are entitled to free education and healthcare just like their indigenous counterparts. He spoke to Daily Sun on his recent statewide tour, noting that it

was aimed at making Katsina State what it is: ‘Home of Hospitality’.

“Our goal is to make every Nigerian feel at home and have a sense that he matters. God has ordained us to live together as brothers and sisters and we can do this comfortably once we are committed to mutual respect and understanding,” he declared. Excerpts.

Recently you conducted a statewide tour. What motivated it?

Governor Ibrahim Shehu Shema has charged my office with the responsibility of sensitizing people about the administration’s activities and bringing them closer to the government. The tour is part of effort to build a bridge of understanding among the diverse people resident in the state on the one hand and between the people and government on the other.

During our tour of the 34 local government areas, we made consultations, listened to the opinions, views and aspirations of the different ethnic, social, cultural and religious groups in the state. The aim was to make every Nigerian feel at home and have a sense that he matters. It is also to make every one understand that despite our differences, God has ordained us to live together as brothers and sisters and we can do this comfortably once we are committed to mutual respect and understanding.

We have conducted the first and second phases of the tour.

We suspended the third phase because of the Ramadan fasting. We intend to resume immediately. I must say that we are encouraged by the support of the governor and the involvement of the Commissioners of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs as well as that of Information.

How do you think people will benefit from the tour?

Our interaction will promote understanding among Nigerians from various parts of the country living in Katsina State. It will also reassure non-indigenes that they are accepted in the state. We want to leave no one in doubt that Katsina State is truly the Home of Hospitality. In our state, everyone is involved in

the effort to promote political, socio-economic, religious and cultural harmony. Just as everyone is involved, so also everyone is equally entitled to the benefits of programmes and policies of government.

That is why in Katsina, both indigenes and non-indigenes benefit from free education, free healthcare services for children under five years, pregnant and nursing mothers and treatment for diseases such as malaria and kidney problems.

Another important component of the tour is to consolidate the peace and security enjoyed by the state, especially in view of the security challenges faced in the c o u n t r y.

We have enjoyed p e a c e through prayers and deliberate effort to promote understanding among the people.

Our vision is to create an environment in which both indigenes and non-indigenes will have equal opportunity and free hand to contribute to the economic, social and political development of the state.

Some times people are masters of their fate as they tend to forget that the responsibility of shaping society in the right path is an obligation for all.

Here, the duty of government is to open the gate of success to its people. It is the responsibility of the people to make good use of the opportunities.

For example, the Governor Shema-led administration has constructed craft village to train youths in various skill acquisition programmes.

Youths are trained and then given working materials to setup businesses on graduation.

By doing this, government has created the opportunity. It is left to the youths to either take advantage and become selfreliant or to dispose the working materials provided to them by government at the gate of the training centre.

Some people see your tour to local governments as a move to prioritize non-indigenes. How accurate is this?

I think in the modern world,

no society can develop socially and economically without the influx of people from other parts of the world. Rather than place emphasis on the term ‘non-indigene’, I think we should focus on making people feel free, secure and at home, so that we can eliminate the feeling of being a stranger. This is important because going by history, even the Sullubawa, who are currently heading the traditional institutions in Katsina came from somew h e r e .

Today,

Rumah it is inconceivable that we can think of them as non-indigenes.

What government is doing here is to give room for everybody regardless of ethno-religious differences to contribute their quota toward the development of the state. This is part of our culture and tradition.

You have shed light on Governor Ibrahim Shema administration’s effort toward empowering the youths.

What is your department doing to complement this effort?

Yes, the administration has contributed immensely toward making the youths and other people in the state to become self-reliant. The government has improved agricultural activities through the provision of fertilizer, soft agricultural loans, farming implements and insecticides to farmers. These are geared toward ensuring food security.

Business Apprenticeship Training Centres (BATC) have been established in some local governments to train youths in skills and trades.

Soft loans have been provided to small scale and medium traders. Even local businessmen and women have benefited from government intervention.

The department of Diplomacy and Societal Relations has opened a door to listen and act on complaints of inadequacy, cheating or abuse of office among government organizations and staff.

My office has received several complaints from the public regarding the formulation and implementation of government programmes and policies. We have channeled such complaints and views to the appropriate agencies for solutions.

Secondly, this office has also been carrying out sensitization on the importance of peaceful co-existence among the people. This is important because peace is pivotal to the success of any government policy or programme, so we are assisting by promoting the enabling environment for government policies and programmes to succeed.

DAILY SUN

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

We need clerics like Muoka – Gov. Obi

By WOLE BALOGUN

C

onfirming the efficacy of a true and righteous prayer, Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, has warned leaders not to ignore or toy with prayers of the General Overseer of The Lord’s Chosen Charismatic Revival Ministries, Pastor Lazarus Muoka.

Briefing journalists at the end of the two-day national crusade of The Lord’s Chosen, titled, The God of miracles, held at Metallurgical Institute, Onitsha, Anambra State, the governor said: “I have always said we need seriously the prayers of Pastor Muoka, we need them for ourselves, we need them for the state and we need them for the nation. For there to be an enduring peace in this country and for Nigeria to move forward, we need effective prayers made by righteous people and Pastor Muoka is one of them.”

The governor, who attended the crusade with more than a dozen aides, followed attentively all the passages cited by the clergyman by opening and searching the Scriptures with the big Bible in his hand.

When asked by reporters whether it was his first time of attending Pastor Muoka’s open prayer meeting, Gov. Obi said: “This is not my first time of attending Pastor Muoka’s crusade, it is actually my third time since I became a governor.

Whenever Pastor Muoka is holding a crusade in Anambra

Governor Obi and Mummy Joy Muoka at Onitsha 2012 Crusade State, being a Christian, I do was the prayer of Pastor Muoka visit.” that broke the yoke of kidnapAccording to him, the power- ping and gangerism, which ful prayer of Pastor Muoka has brought the state to its knees worked for him and the State, some months ago. He said it counseling all the citizenry to was until the cleric set his feet pocket their ego and queue into on Abia and prayed that the the anointing prayer and tap notorious leader of all the kidfreely the grace of God in the nappers in Southern Nigeria, Known as Osisikankwo, was General Overseer.

“The cleric, as the Elijah of apprehended and dealt with that our generation, had imparted peace returned to the state.

Also, in Imo State, during the immensely in the lives of so many Nigerian. Many people in era of Ikedi Ohakim administraNigeria and even beyond, who tion, all the protracted court were suffering from one ailment cases during the Third Republic, or another have indeed been including the one decided by healed through the prayers of Supreme Court were ruled in Pastor Muoka. Many armed his favour. This was made robbers have renounced their known on the telecast by no wickedness by coming in con- other person than his chief of tact with the ministration of staff cum blood brother, Emma Pastor Muoka,” the governor Ohakim, when he was appreciating the impact of the intercessaid.

Obi is not alone in making sory prayers made on behalf of this clarion call. In an address to the former governor by Pastor the people of Abia State at the Muoka.

The efficacy of Pastor state headquarters, Umuahia, where he invited Pastor Muoka Muoka’s prayer is no longer in for an intercessory open air doubt for numerous testimonies prayer meeting, Governor T. A. abound, attesting to God’s call Orji, stated categorically that it upon his life.

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DAILY SUN

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

WOMANoftheSUN From DIANE EZEH, Abuja

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atilda Kerry, medical doctor and former Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria, is a good instance of brain and beauty. Since the end of her reign, Kerry has continued to use her public persona to promote healthy living and disease prevention in Nigeria. She is a lady of elegance and beauty. She seems to have extended that to making healthcare as beautiful as she is.

Presently, she is the president of the George Kerry Life Foundation, a non-governmental organisation that promotes the Cervical Health Campaign, which seeks to reduce the incidence of cervical cancer in Nigerian women. Their core area is in screening, education and treatment of the killer disease, ultimately helping to reduce the incidence of the disease. Kerry, the resident expert on beauty, aesthetics and health, spoke to Daily Sun on her project.

How has it been, coping with your celebrity status?

It’s been wonderful and I wonít say I have been coping with it because itís not a burden.

Itís been very helpful giving my status as a former beauty queen. one It still opens doors for me and because I handled it all very well, I donít suffer the unwanted invasion of privacy by press and people.

It has been almost 12 years since you won the crown. What would you say have been your greatest achievement since then?

The George Kerry Life Foundation which I founded in 2005 in memory of my late father has been by far the most rewarding thing I have done. Our cervical cancer prevention campaign has touched so many lives.

We have performed free cervical and breast cancer screening for over 5,000 women and have also carried out awareness campaign programmes to over a hundred thousand Nigerians.

The chance to help people and save so many lives cannot be compared with any other endeavour. I feel very blessed and fulfilled doing this.

During your reign, you were involved in providing for the lepers off Lagos/Ibadan highway, how successful was it and Is it still on?

My pet project during that period helped to draw awareness of theNigerian people and government to the plight of lepers along Lagos/ Ibadan expressway. It was quite suc-

Matilda Kerry’s quest for good healthcare

•Kerry cessful because soon after, a proper rehabilitation site was set up for them.

This awareness project only ran for a year and had planted a deeper seed of empathy in me which has now grown into The George Kerry Life Foundation that is saving thousands of people every year.

Sometime early this year, you went public that you are in a relationship. Can you share with us your progress so far with your man?

Is it possible that the wedding bell will ring soon?

That was ages ago! As for wedding bells, you will hear when they finally chime.

How did you combine modeling and medical profession?

I always get asked that question. The truth of the matter is that you can combine pretty much any profession you want and be successful at them if you know how to prioritize and plan

Women, be submissive to your husbands –Cleric

By FAVOUR ONWUKA

M

rs. Theresa Oguh, of the Mt. Zion Ministry, Lagos, has affirmed that women are pillars of the homes and the entire nation. She opined that they should rise up to their task and help build the nation, especially during this period when Nigeria is passing through these challenges.

According to her, a home without solid foundation and strong pillars is bound to collapse. She described women as ‘salt for taste’ and called on them to embrace God even at this time of global economic meltdown.

Oguh is of the opinion that Nigeria can be saved through the good advice or leadership of women just like Esther of the Biblical times brought deliverance to Israel. She admonished women to obey, love and cherish their husbands and reiterated that no matter the socio-political status, a woman’s husband still remained her crowning glory.

In an interview with Daily Sun, She charged women to be submissive to their husbands, among other issues. Excerpts: Role of women in nation building Without a woman, there will be no society.

God has lifted women and crowned them with glory. Women are like pillars that hold a house. A house without pillars cannot stand.

The Bible called a woman a ‘builder’. This did not mean that women are bricklayers, they are home builders full of love, care, passionate for her home. If every home is godly, we will have godly society. They are mothers, they should be passionate and live a virtuous life worthy of emulation.

The women play important roles in nation building. The level of corruption and hardship in the country has reached the level where women could come together and declared prayer as Esther did in the Bible when she said, “If I perish I perish”. The women should rise up and seek for the face of God Almighty.

Our children are sick, no good hospitals to treat them, our children are sent out from school because of school fees, there is bad

•Oguh roads, no infrastructure, our children are wandering in the streets like sheep without shepherd even after graduating from school, no employment. The women should support their husband’s in every good thing they are doing.

Women should stop chasing shadows and face the reality. Nigeria needs God’s intervention.

Corruption The level of corruption in the country

your time. I guess I am good at doing that.

What advice do you give for young Nigerians who are struggling with modeling and academics?

Prioritize and plan. It is difficult but possible.

The name of your foundation is George Kerry life foundation. Why did you name it after your late father?

I named it in honor and memory of my father, Dr. Hon. George Kerry. He passed on soon after I started working on the establishing the foundation. Now, I know for sure that it was the right thing to do as the Foundation truly represents his emphatic nature and stands for the welfare of the people, just as my father did in life.

Tell us about your foundation The George Kerry Life foundation (GKLF) is established for the welfare of Nigerians who have limitations in reaching their full potential due to disease, disability, illiteracy and poverty (DDIP Initiative). We have initiated the George Kerry Life Cervical Cancer Control Campaign (CCCC) to increase awareness on cervical cancer which is the cancer with the highest mortality rate in women. Cervical cancer kills over 8,000 Nigerian women annually yet it is fully preventable when caught in the precancer stage and managed.

CCCC has been running for over two years now, we have educated over a hundred thousand women throughdirect contact, print media, social networks, television and radio health aw````areness. We have screened and treated over five thousand Nigerian women for early cervical lesions striving towards complete sensitization and regular screening of Nigerian women to curb this silent killer.

Our Mission is to stop thousands of women dying annually from preventable cancer.

Are you still into fashion or has your profession dominated the flare you had for modeling?

I have never really been into fashion and after my reign as MBGN I didnít do much modeling. I’m not obsessed with fashion like any women are out there. I admire and enjoy classy trendy dresses, shoes and bags and Iím a big fan of some vintage wears but I wonít go out of my way to acquire them.

I also have a friend who doubles as my personal shopper, she is great! She helps me put together fantastic outfits for important outings. Save for that you will find me in my favorite pair of jeans. should give every right thinking person concern. The leaders don’t think about the led, men are now lovers of themselves.

The Biblical injunction that one should love his neighbour as himself is no more.

We are moving towards the end time and the Bible says that perilous things shall happen and that is exactly what Nigerians are witnessing. Nigeria are blessed with natural resources and we have intellectuals to manage them but “the dogs have eaten the bones that was hang on their neck.”

The citizens are left with carcasses of their own. The level of poverty in the country had turn many of our young girls and women to women of easy virtue. You can hardly differentiate some women from prostitutes by their dressing. The young women are going naked in the name of fashion and people are so engrossed with material things.

Women empowerment The ministry is non-denominational it is a home for all. We teach the women to understand their roles as mothers in the home. We teach them how to manage their homes, even, at this time of global economic crisis. We empower women spiritually, physically, morally and socially.

Women need empowerment for when you empower a woman, you empower a nation.

Back to stone age:

Why this British mum wept for her 15-year-old schoolgirl who ran away from home

LASU students now study under trees

PAGE 40

PAGE 31

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

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EducationReview EDITED BY CHIKA ABANOBI

PEOPLE•PLACES•PROBLEMS•PROSPECTS•PROGRESS

N I G E R I A’ S V O I C E O F E D U C AT I O N

EXCLUSIVE

The reported collapse of Onitsha High School Principal, during Governor Peter Obi’s visit: The untold story

PAGES 26-28

STRUCK BY HIGH SPIRITS

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Tuesday, October 2, 2012

Education Review/COVER “It is a greater work to educate a child, in the true and larger sense of the word, than to rule a state” – William Ellery Channing

A school Principal’s strange encounter with the Obi of Education:

‘Why I knelt down and raised my hands’ From EMMANUEL UZOR, Onitsha

I

f your child or ward is offering Biology as a subject in secondary school, he or she probably has her book sitting right now on the table or lying somewhere in the house. Titled: New System Biology, and published by Africana FEP, it is a book she co-authored with two Singaporeans. So? The name, Julie or Juliana Obianuju Ofoefuna, shouldn’t be strange to you.

But she made news recently when she reportedly collapsed on receiving a cheque of N12.5 million from Governor Peter Obi of Anambra State who visited her school, Onitsha High School, in the company of the newly-appointed Commissioner for Education, Dr. (Mrs.) Uju Okeke.

“This visit in which he gave us a cheque was actually his second visit,” Ofoefuna recalled. “It was the Senior Prefect that phoned him or rather sent a text to him because he has his number and told him on Sunday evening that their building was collapsing. He (Obi) promised to do something about it to make sure that it does not bury us alive.

“True to his promise, the following day, Monday, he left everything he was supposed to do and came. I didn’t know what to do but I was very happy, very excited and overwhelmed with joy that it was in my tenure that a governor visited the school for the first time. The first time he came, he went round on inspection and truly saw that the building was collapsing. He was worried. He was touched and he said he would come back and see what he could do.

“But when he came back, this time around, following the SOS (Save-Our-Soul) message sent to him by our student, and gave us the cheque, I was overwhelmed. I knelt down and raised my hands and began to thank God for answering our prayers. Even the students were thanking God with me. If you look at the photo, you will see that all of them were raising their hands. The Senior Prefect said to me, ‘Mummy, do you remember the prayer that we said early this year?

God has answered it.’

“It is true. In the first assembly that we held at the beginning of the year, we had been so concerned about the rate of dilapidation in the school that we earnestly prayed asking that whoever God would use to wipe away our tears should manifest before the end of the year. You can imagine my surprise then when it turned out to be our governor.

“He loves children. He loves students. He loves the youth. He believes that the youth can be moulded to be better individuals in the society. So, he listens to them. In fact, when I was posted here, I had a burden in my heart for this school. But as God would have it, my Senior Prefect had the governor’s phone number and he sent him an sms in the evening. In the morning, he was here to show people the love he has for children because, you see, I cannot go to him directly. I have to follow due process.

“I have to write letters. Of course, we wrote and I believe our letters are still on the way. But to facilitate matters, the governor responded promptly to our student’s appeal for help. It is not only so here. In most schools, you find that students, including primary school pupils, call him on the phone

•Onitsha High School building

“I have to write letters. Of course, we wrote and I believe our letters are still on the way. But to facilitate matters, the governor responded promptly to our student’s appeal for help. It is not only so here. In most schools, you find that students, including primary school pupils, call him on the phone and tell him their problems.

•Gov. Obi

and tell him their problems. Some of these students could be writing exams under the rain and they would call the governor, ‘Please, sir, we are writing exam under the rain and it’s falling on us.’ Before you know it, he would be there to do something and

evening and appeared in our school on Monday morning. Don’t you see it was divinely-ordained?”

There is a debate, however, as to whether she collapsed on receiving the N12.5 million cheque, as reported in the papers. “Was it really collapsing?,” she asked rhetorically renovate the school. So, he listens to children when Education Review used the word “coland I believe he loves everybody. It is not lapse” to describe what happened to her on only my school, he visits other schools too the day the governor visited. “Well, that one but ours was a special visit because the time interval was very short. Imagine, the •Continued on Page 27 Governor received the message on Sunday

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

DAILY SUN

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Education Review/COVER “Cutting the deficit by gutting our investments in education is like lightening an overloaded airplane by removing its engine. It may make you feel like you’re flying high at first, but it won’t take long before you feel the impact” – President Barack Obama

‘Gov Obi is passionate about education’ From GEOFFREY ANYANWU, Awka

D

r. (Mrs.) Uju Okeke, Anambra State Commissioner for Education, spoke to Education Review on the incident and on other things Gov Peter Obi is doing in the education sector. Excerpts: What did you and the governor tell the woman when she knelt down before you to show her gratitude?

I actually helped her to stand up and the only thing I told her was that the only wonderful thing she will do is to use the money judiciously because she was given N12.5 million and the governor expects to have very fruitful result.

What did the woman tell you?

Of course, she was saying that she had never seen a thing like that before in that school, that no governor had even visited the school, let alone presenting cheque to that school. She also promised to use the money judiciously.

What impression did the woman’s gesture make on both the governor and you, as the commissioner?

Actually, it was very emotional, and we really felt good. We were happy, the woman was excited but not to the extent of collapsing, she didn’t collapse and the governor was very happy she showed excitement and that was it.

Since your assumption of office, has there been similar reaction elsewhere you went?

Yes, when we went to Ado Girls, the governor presented a cheque of N15 million and the Principal was equally happy and showed her gratitude.

How does government intend to monitor the project to ensure that the money is put to a judicious use?

That question is very pertinent because we

have under my ministry a monitoring unit, their function is to monitor these projects, to monitor whatever that is going on to see that work is processing on as scheduled and the principals are doing what they are supposed to do.

The money being half-payment, when will you pay fully?

That was what I said before, we have our monitoring unit, and they go there and bring their report. At some point in time, when we see that the money the governor gave is being used judiciously and that work is going on, then they will write and we will give them money to continue.

Did she apply for it? What projects is she expected to use the money to execute in the school?

Actually, she did apply; it was from on-thespot assessment when the governor visited earlier that we gave her the cheque. If you go there, you will see that the buildings and some other places have cracked, if you see it, you know that it needs to be worked on and that’s why she applied and the governor obliged.

What is Obi’s plan for education and, apart from Onitsha High School, what other school projects is the government deeply involved in its renovation and to what extent is it succeeding with its vision?

We are really succeeding, I must tell you because in my file here, we have some other outstanding cheques the governor will give to schools and as soon as he schedules when to visit, because he is very busy, we will do that.

We have some other cheques waiting and as soon as he tells us when to bring the cheques and when he will present the cheques we will do that.

There are schools that need renovations and we are working towards renovating those schools.

So as I said earlier, Governor Obi is very passionate about education and he is doing everything within the limited resources to see education grow from strength to strength and I believe we shall succeed and with me on this seat, I will do my best to see that we succeed, as far as education is concerned.

•Dr Okeke

The School Principal didn’t collapse – Commissioner •Continued from Page 26

•Ofoefuna

is nothing to talk about now, but I knew I was overwhelmed with joy and I knelt down and said, ‘God, you have answered our prayers.”

Dr. Okereke, the education commissioner, agrees with her. “We read in the papers that the Principal collapsed,” she said in a chat with Education Review.

“That wasn’t the truth. She did not collapse. She just knelt down, respectfully, to say, ‘thank you, to the governor’ and the governor tried to lift her up and that was it. She didn’t collapse; she was just excited.”

Well, “collapse” or “excited,” the truth is that Ofoefuna, the 10th Principal of Onitsha High School, is happy to be given some money to give a facelift to this school established in 1976. “We were given the cheque for the fortification and renovation of the collapsing building,” she told Education Review. “If you look at the roof of the building, you would find out that it is leaking and most times, when students are there, rain would fall and destroy their books and lockers and at times, JSS1 students would run into my office and say,

‘Mummy, rain is destroying our books and lockers.’

Right now, reports say work on the patching of the leaking roof had been completed while major renovation is on.

“So you can see that God is using our governor to save lives because imagine what people will say if a four-storey building collapsed and killed about 1,000 students in a school! So, I don’t know how to describe his visit and I don’t know how to express my joy and happiness and I pray God to protect him for us for saving our lives.”

This means, whoever you are, and whatever party you belong, please, don’t try to castigate Governor Peter Obi before this woman, as far as education in Anambra State is concerned. If you do, whatever you see you should be ready to take. If chalk is one of those things that she bought with the money the governor gave her she is likely to throw at you a whole carton of it, without bating an eyelid. She is that aggressive in her defence of Obi. Education Review found this fact out when it tried to tease her with the suggestion about the governor wasting time and energy visiting primary and secondary schools.

She came out spitting fire. “Whoever that is putting up such accusation is an enemy of progress, I hope you understand?” she said, her face full of anger.

“He is developing all sectors but that of education is more than other sectors. He has renovated about 177 primary schools. In every community in the state, he built one block of five classrooms each. His visit to schools is not abnormal. You only need to see the psychological effects on the children. Somebody like Bill Clinton, when John F. Kennedy visited him in school, it helped him to widen his dream and he later became the President of America. So, you see, the governor’s presence in schools had a lot of psychological impact on the students who most times hear about their governor but they never have the opportunity of seeing him. Do you know that my students are still talking about that visit?

And each time, you would hear them boasting that they’ve seen the Governor.

So, it is a big deal and big motivation not only to students but also to teachers and to myself, the Principal, because his presence also strengthened me. In short, everybody in my school – students and teachers are very happy.”

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DAILY SUN Tuesday, October 2, 2012

Education Review/COVER “To educate a person in mind and not in morals is to educate a menace to society” – Theodore Roosevelt

Springtime for Catholic education in Anambra State

By HILARY PAUL ODILI OKEKE

T

he Catholic Church is very much aware of its divine mandate in education.

According to Canon 7941, “the duty and right of educating belongs in a special way to the church, to which has been divinely entrusted the mission of assisting persons so that they are able to reach the fullness of Christian life.” From the above, it is clear that the Catholic Church is not a stranger in the field of education.

The Catholic Church is not an interloper.

Education is part and parcel of its mission. The civil government must understand and appreciate the right and duty of the church to educate its members and others who want to benefit from the teaching function of the church. Part of the sad history of Nigeria and for which the nation is paying dearly, was the attempt by civil government to oust the competence of the church in education. Monopoly of education by government starved education of its ability to give integral formation to the young.

Government, through its unfortunate policy, educated generations of Nigerians without morality. Is it any wonder that most Nigerians do not bother about right and wrong? For the most, it is achievement, money, success, position without minding the means of attaining the end! No wonder Nigeria is groaning under the weight of corruption and other social malaise!

We are paying the price for neglecting and abandoning true education which the Church was giving for the concoction which the State was providing in the name of education. How could the government without the correct sense of values and direction give true education, especially with corrupt officials and ill-motivated teachers? The result was introduction of monumental fraud into the educational system.

Bribery and corruption were enthroned; examination malpractices surfaced and were promoted; the seeds of indiscipline and corruption were sown and nurtured in the social fabric and

•Onitsha High School

today, every sector of our society is experiencing the disastrous consequences of mis-education.

The Catholic Church is on the other hand always conscious and conscientious about the finality of education. According to Canon 795, “since true education must strive for complete formation of the human person that looks to his or her final end as well as to the common good of societies, children and youth are to be nurtured such that they are able to develop their physical, moral, and intellectual talents harmoniously, acquire a more perfect sense of responsibility and right use of freedom, and are formed to participate actively in social life.”

One cannot leave out any of the objectives of integral education without doing irremediable harm to the society. The result will be producing monsters, moral monsters! That is why some teachers (or cheaters) and children with the connivance and active support of their parents are more interested in passing examinations than in acquiring knowledge and competences.

This has led to institutionalization of success in examination without knowledge in miracle or special centres! One does not need a prophet to tell us that this is a recipe for failure of the society! In spite of all appearances to the contrary, we have a failed society! Why should thousands of Nigerians youths flee Nigeria in search of greener pastures? Why should thousands of Nigerians leave Nigeria for Ghana and other West African countries in search of education? The indices of a failed society are there for even the blind to see!

Many Nigerians have come to realize that a lot of things have gone wrong with Nigeria.

Many have seen that the foundation is faulty.

Some are calling for a Sovereign National Conference (SNC) as the panacea for the ills of Nigeria. But honest Nigerians know that unless we get the foundation right, in vain will all our efforts in re-branding Nigeria be. The foundation is true education to ensure that we have

•Bishop Okeke new generations imbued with genuine sense of right and wrong, authentic moral values and commitment to ethical norms that make for personal integrity, social responsibility and promotion of the common good. It will be difficult to find a group that is imbued with the same sense of mission with which the church undertakes education. For the church, education is not a commercial venture. It is its raison d’être.

To get education once more right in Nigeria, the church must be allowed and empowered to do what it knows best and what it is mandated to do: teach!

And that is what Mr. Peter Obi, the Governor of Anambra State is doing. Mr. Peter Obi is an uncommon governor in Nigeria. Most of his colleagues are busy playing politics with the destiny of the people. Most are engaged in palliatives which they call “dividends of democracy” and using contracts to siphon public funds. Mr. Peter Obi is concerned with giving the people of Anambra State what they need and not what they want.

With ANIDS (Anambra Integrated Development Strategy), the governor is attacking the development needs of Anambra State on all fronts. One of the principal areas is education because he believes that education is a primary tool for development. He is honest enough to realize that the state needs the expertise and commitment of the church to revamp education in the state. That is why he did what other governors before him were afraid to do. He returned all secondary schools and primary schools taken over from the church. And again, he was sincere enough to apologize for the unfortunate take over of schools which put education into morass.

Unlike his colleagues, he saw the church as a reliable partner in progress. He is willing to work with the church to reverse the losses and repair the damages which the state

had unwittingly inflicted on education. He promised to make a huge sum of money available to the church to assist it to rehabilitate dilapidated school buildings while continuing to pay the teachers and other state employees in the returned schools.

The governor has taken a bold step to revolutionize education in our State. He has thrown a big challenge to the church. The Catholic Church in Anambra State under the leadership of Archbishop Valerian Okeke, has wholeheartedly accepted the challenge of the governor. The Catholic Bishops in Anambra State, namely, Archbishop Valerian Okeke, Archbishop of Onitsha, Bishop Hilary Paul O. Okeke, Bishop of Nnewi, Bishop Paulinus Ezeokafor, Bishop of Awka and Bishop Augustine Ukwuoma, Bishop of Orlu (for Uli and Amorka which are in Anambra State but in Orlu Diocese), have resolved to do their best to see that the good intentions of Governor Peter Obi are achieved for the benefit of the children of Anambra State. May God bless our governor!

Our responsibility is to see that the returned schools and those which were built by the Church after the take over of schools are maintained and managed in the best possible manner to yield the desired result. We have to ensure that the facilities are quickly reconstructed and rehabilitated. The funds provided by the government will only help us scratch the surface but we are very grateful for the gesture.

We must not depend totally on government subsidy. We have to realize that schools are part of the pastoral mission to which church funds are to be applied. Indeed, the church expects the Catholic faithful to foster Catholic schools, assisting in their establishment and maintenance according to their means (see Canon 796 §2). Education is one of the most critical and important areas of investment. Indeed, investing in education is the wisest investment for one will be investing in the people who will transform the society.

•Most Rev. Okeke is the Catholic Bishop of Nnewi, Anambra State

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

DAILY SUN

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FOCUS/Education Review “Upon the education of the people of this country, the fate of this country depends” -–Benjamin Disraeli

UBEC, TETfund: Resetting the education agenda

•Students trained under UBEC

From CHUKS AKUNNA, Abuja

O

n September 3, 2012, the five-year tenure of Executive Secretary, Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), Dr. Ahmed Modibbo Mohammed, ended. So also did the tenure of his colleague, Executive Secretary at Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETfund), Prof. Mahmood Yakub.

In the last five years, both men supervised agencies that set the agenda for primary and tertiary education in Nigeria. Prior to this appointment in UBEC, Mohammed, who holds a doctorate degree in History, held several appointive positions, including Dean, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. He was also Chief Executive, National Teachers Institute (NTI), Kaduna.

Yakub was a lecturer at the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), in Kaduna. Both men assumed offices at a most historic period - few months after Nigeria conducted her first ever civilian-to-civilian administration transition.

Expectedly, hopes hit the roof. For, before 1999, the blame for every problem confronting Nigeria had often been heaped at the feet of the military. The military juntas that ruled, it was often argued, did so with scant regard for the rule of law, let alone considera-

•Prof Yakub tion for public opinion. One of the problems the military couldn’t find a way around was how to run primary education.

In 1976 for instance, the Federal Military Government introduced Universal Primary Education. This programme swelled primary

•Dr Mohammed schools enrolment from a little over 3 million pupils in 1970 to over 11 million in 1988. The number of primary schools grew from over 35,433 in 1991 to 38,649 in 1995. According to the Federal Office of Statistics, the number of primary schools grew from 13,607,249 in

1991 to 16,190,947 in 1994.

Even at that, the government of the day felt that the figures were far from impressive.

Consequently, the Federal Government, in 1993, promulgated the National Primary Education Commission (NPEC) Decree No. 96. With the Decree came the State Primary Education Boards (SPEB) and Local Government Education Authorities (LGEAs).

One of the distinguishing features of the decree was that the salaries of primary school teachers were removed as First-Line charge and handed to NPEC, which took full charge for their salaries through SPEBs. Teachers hailed the decree because it made their salaries run under first line charge, and therefore, promptly paid.

This was, however, short-lived as the Supreme Court, ruling on a suit by Third Republic governors, held that the Federal Government lacked the powers to include teachers’ salaries as first-line charge.

The Supreme Court affirmed that the Constitution vests the responsibility of running primary education on states and LGAs, not the federal government. Thus returned the control of primary education to the control of states and LGAs well until 1999 when civil rule returned.

Upon assuming office, President Olusegun

•Continued on Page 30

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DAILY SUN

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

Education Review/FOCUS “Marry an orphan: you’ll never have to spend boring holidays with the in-laws.” – George Carlin

More training needed for teachers •Continued from Page 29 Obasanjo sneered at the results achieved under states and LGAs’ control of primary education. Exactly four months after his inauguration as President, Obasanjo, in Sokoto, flagged off the Universal Basic Education Programme (UBEP). At the launch, an elated Obasanjo described UBEP as “Nigeria’s strategy for achieving Education for All (EFA) and the education-related Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).”

As a follow-up, the President sent a bill seeking to establish UBEC as the coordinating agency for UBEP to the National Assembly.

On May 26, 2004, Obasanjo signed the UBE bill into law, facilitating the establishment of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) on October 7, 2004.

A HARVEST OF EXECUTIVE SECRETARIES

UBEC’s pioneer Executive Secretary was Prof. Gidado Tahir, a man who had a successful tenure as UBEP National Co-ordinator.

According to the UBEC Act, the commission’s Executive Secretary is to be appointed by the President upon recommendation by the Minister of Education. Such a person is to hold office for five years and, upon re-confirmation, may hold office for another four years.

As Obasanjo’s second term ended, Tahir reportedly came under pressure to help raise money from UBEC’s till, to fund Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential campaigns. The professor refused to play ball.

Sources claimed that under the guise that Prof.

Tahir had a bridged tenure spilling from his UBEP days, President Obasanjo fired him in April 2007. In Tahir’s stead was appointed a thoroughbred educationist and career civil servant, Dr. (Mrs) Lami Amodu. The following month, Alhaji Umaru Musa Yar’Adua took

over as president. Hardly had Dr. Amodu spent four months than an announcement came that she had been “redeployed” to head a programme at the Federal Ministry of Education.

Equally “redeployed” to take over from Amodu, a statement by the then Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Education, Dr. Aboki Zawa, said, was Dr. Ahmed Modibbo Mohammed. To take over from Mohammed at NTI, the statement further said, was a director in the ministry, Dr. Patrick Onyekwere. At Education Trust Fund (ETF), now TETFund, Prof. Yakub was “redeployed” to take over as Executive Secretary from Dr. Mustapha Jaji.

GALE OF REACTIONS

Dr. Lami Amodu is a native of Kogi State.

At the time of her sack, her kinsman, Dr. Ahmadu Ali was PDP national chairman. Ali, Education Review gathered, deployed all resources at his disposal, to reverse the deployments. In the same boat with the PDP national chairman was the governor at the time, Alhaji Ibrahim Idris. Citing sections of the UBEC Act, the PDP chairman vainly attempted to make President Yar’Adua realise that a person on a tenured appointment cannot be relieved at will. Not even the disclosure that Mohammed had allegedly overstayed his tenure in NTI, and therefore not eligible for “redeployment”, could change the situation.

•Prof. Tahir

THE WAY FORWARD

Some consider the last two years as the most challenging to the core values of UBEC, nay Nigeria, which is, “the provision of free, Universal Basic Education for every Nigerian child of school – going age.” Like a bolt from the blues, a radical Islamic sect, Boko Haram (meaning Western Education is forbidden),

has virtually overrun the entire northern Nigeria, creating a never-before-experienced security challenge to the country.

United Nations Education Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) recommends a maximum of 25 pupils to a teacher.

However, it is not uncommon to find as many

as 120 pupils to a teacher in Nigerian public schools. With the funding of primary education totally at the mercy of states and LGAs already overstretched tiers of governments - it is not surprising that most of these governments try to cut corners by employing fewer and less qualified teachers. It was Mohammed, himself, who fired a shot, few months ago, that half of the teachers employed

by Sokoto State government “cannot read and write.” Even when they employ these unqualified teachers, very few governments are willing to invest in teacher training due to the cost.

Indications that states and LGAs, arms who ironically get lesser allocations than the federal government, cannot properly fund primary education has manifested time and again. A few years ago, for instance, public schools in Anambra State under ex-Gov. Chinwoke Mbadinuju shut down for a whole year due to irreconcilable differences over wages and salaries.

A similar scenario is playing out in Plateau State where teachers have been on strike for about a year. As the famous English philosopher, Edward Evarett, put it, “Education is a better safeguard of personal liberty than a standing army.” Countries that have made progress are those countries that have made tremendous commitment to education for all (EFA), which Nigeria is a signatory to.

As President Goodluck Jonathan appoints new helmsmen for UBEC and TETFund, emphasis should be on the competence of the candidates and not political considerations. As things stand, many are agreed that Nigeria is at a major political crossroads. What she can illafford at this time is a major education crossroads. However, the decision to arrive at or avoid such crossroads rests with President.

Goodluck Jonathan. His decision or indecision on this matter can make all the difference.

How we spent our holiday – School kids

By AGBA CHIOMA and ADEWORAN OLUWASEUN

H

ow did our kids spend their long school holiday that just ended? Did they go about doing battle with their siblings over the ownership right to the TV remote control to programmes like Wrestle-Mania or Kim’s Reality TV shows? Or did they enrich their parents and themselves financially by eking out a living from odd jobs or helping out with sales in their parents’ shops? Did they engage their time in some other profitable ventures like tutorials or enlisting in one the entrepreneurial centres to acquire one or two skills? Those were the questions that Education Review took to the streets in Lagos and the answers it got are as educative as they are entertaining.

Courage Eboigbe, 15-year-old student of Whitefield High School, Maza-Maza, said he had no dull moment because his parents took him to several interesting places including Lekki beach. He also attended tutorial classes that he said was to help him prepare for the forthcoming General Certificate Examination (GCE) and some other exams.”

But Abdulrahman Orelope, 11year-old pupil of Asmorial Islamic Nursery and Primary School, KujeAmuwo, Lagos said he spent greater part of the holiday staying at

•Courage

•Ugochi home and sometimes playing with his mates, which, to him, was a bit boring.

“I was usually at home when others went for tutorials but there was no space where I could play with my mates,” he said. Nine-year-old Obinna Offor, a primary six pupil of Williams Private School, Festac Town, told Education Review that although he would have loved to participate in the holiday lessons

•Abdulrahman

•Motunrayo “there was no money to enable me register for it. So what I did was to stay at home and sometimes read my books and sometimes played with my kid neighbours.” More than that, he also helped his mum with house chores such as doing the dishes.

Like Offor, fourteen-year-old Ugochi Anita Ukaha, of Navy Town Secondary School, Satellite Town, said the holiday afforded her the opportunity to help her mother not

•Obinna

•Chibuzor only in house but also in her shop.

She also used that opportunity to catch up on some Mathematical topics that she did not master very well in Mathematics while in class, she said.

Sixteen-year-old Motunrayo Mary Dada of St Louis College, Abeokuta, Ogun State, not only helped her mum to man their retail shop but also divided her time between that and participation in holiday lessons. “I attended

•Jerry holiday lessons and when I came back I stayed at my mother’s shop to help her to attend to customers. I did not want to stay at home watching television because by doing so I would have not have learnt new things as I did when I went for lesson. Although I also learnt at home, I learnt more at school.”

Eight-year-old Chibuzor Nnemagwu Prosper, a primary three pupils of Covenant Keeping God Nursery and Primary School, Maza-Maza, says she attended holiday coaching “because my mum wanted me to attend lessons rather than stay at home doing nothing.”

Fifteen-year-old Jerry Williams of Whitefield High School explained that although he didn’t have time to visit interesting historical places as he would have wished to “my holiday were spent reading my books and doing house chores. I also participated in the holiday coaching.

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

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CAMPUS SQUARE Where students report happenings on their campuses... with Sam Otti ( campuseditor@yahoo.com/08038829740)

“I had a terrible education. I attended a school for emotionally disturbed teachers” – Woody Allen

S-H-O-C-K-E-R:

By SAM OTTI

L

agos State wears the toga as the nation’s Centre of Excellence. But the students of the Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo, have tales of woes on their lips. For several days, some students of the Adebola Adegunwa School of Communication, the satellite campus of the university, studied under tree shades at the popular students’ relaxation centre, popularly called Abe Igi. Our curious reporter sneaked in on the students and their lecturer, clustered under tree shades during an afternoon lecture. The illustrative photographs in this report tell the story better.

Despite the seriousness of the lecturer, our reporter observed the unpleasant distractions to the students caused by many unwanted guests frolicking with friends and vehicles noising around the area. As the scorching rays of the sun tore through the leaves of the trees, some of the students turned their lecture notes to hand fans, with their handkerchief covering their dizzying heads.

Investigation by our reporter revealed that the students were hurriedly relocated to Ojo main campus from the Ojuelegba satellite campus due to their increasing population. It was gathered that 100 level and 200 level students were transferred to Ojo campus in a

LASU students take lectures under trees •Angry students tell tales of woes frantic bid to save the situation.

The students had left Ojuelegba campus with high hopes that staying on the main campus would end their accommodation problem, but much to their chagrin, the reverse was the case. Like a bedraggled bird, they clustered under tree shades for both their morning and afternoon lectures.

One of the affected students, who declined having his name mentioned in this report, told Education Review that the management assigned one classroom, which was tagged a lecture hall, to both 100 level and 200 level students. The classroom, which was meant to

serve both levels of students, could hardly contain 200 students”.

“It was not conducive even when we had the privilege of staying in the classroom. We (200 level students) are about 250 in population but the hall can only take between 180 and 200 students. Another issue was that whenever the first year students have a lecture, we had no other classroom to use.

Sometimes, we crashed into any available classroom in the Faculty of Arts, especially in English Department. But on most occasions, we had to make do under the trees when the classrooms are occupied by other students”, he said.

Investigation by our reporter revealed that only 100 and 200 level students were moved to Ojo campus, while the 300 level and 400level were left in Ojuelegba Campus.

Worried by the dearth of classrooms at the main campus, it was gathered that the 200 level students were asked to resume the new semester at the satellite campus for the 300 level programme.

Another student, Jenny, expressed anger that undergraduates could be allowed to study in such an undignified state.

She said: “Having classes under the tree in

•Continued on page 34

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DAILY SUN Tuesday, October 2, 2012

CAMPUS SQUARE Where students report happenings on their campuses... with Sam Otti (campuseditor@yahoo.com/08038829740)

“The best audience is intelligent, well-educated, and a little drunk” -– Alben William Barkley

ABSU staff, students clink glasses

By ORI MARTINS

T

he Department of Mass Communication, Abia State University (ABSU), Uturu, was a beehive of activities as it marked its 11 years of fulfilled existence by honouring eminent Nigerians and corporations that have meaningfully contributed to making its existence a worthwhile.

The celebration was held recently at the university’s main auditorium, with eminent personalities across the state in attendance.

Declaring the event open, the Head of Department (HOD), Dr Uwaoma Uche Kalu, stated that the unit had to make the affair elaborate because there was every cause to celebrate.

He said, ‘I want us to understand that it is not an easy task for any venture to run for 11 years undisturbed and still kicking. This is why we are celebrating at 11’.

Kalu noted that the occasion was also an opportunity for the department to honour some individuals who have contributed meaningfully to the success of the unit. According to him, ‘there is no other way to appreciate the efforts and contributions of some individuals and corporate bodies who have continued to identify with us in all these years than to reward them through awards. In this way, they will be encouraged and motivated to do more. On a personal note, I am urging them not to relent in their efforts’.

Among those who were honoured were

…As Mass Communication dept turns 11 HoD, ABSU Mass Communicati on, Dr. Kalu, giving an award to exSUG President ABSU, Chris Afulike

Comrade Emma Onwubiko, President, Secretary to Abia State Government (SSG), the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Chibuzor Ogbuagu Human Writers Association; Bishop Sunday HRH Udu Okwun, media mogul and a tradi- for his great concern towards the unit and indeed, the entire university in general.

Onuoha, President, Vision Africa Radio, tional ruler, among others.

The department, through the HOD, thanked Umuahia; Chief Ralph Egbu, former

UNIJOS: Students hail transformation agenda

By NSISONG IBANGA

T

he National Association of Natural Sciences Students (NANSS) has commended President Goodluck Jonathan for his Transformation Agenda for the coun-

try.

The students said his administration has created a thriving atmosphere for the youth, especially in the area of entrepreneurship development and job creation.

The students expressed their support during a round-table discussion, organized by the student body, by its national leadership in the University of Jos (UNIJOS). The forum provided a platform for the leadership of the association, stakeholders and other sister bodies to brainstorm on the best measures to actualize the proposed National Sensitization Seminar for Nigerian Students in Tertiary Institutions, on the Nigerian Local

• Pledges support for Madueke Content Policy, in the oil and gas sector.

According to the group, the theme of the seminar would dwell on the importance of human capacity building, with the aim of informing students of the opportunities in the Nigerian Local Content Act, thereby, putting them in the best position to take full advantage of it. The flag-off would be held in Abuja later this year.

The president of the association, Comrade I.I. Charles, said students would continue to support the agenda and act as agents of social engineering in the society.

He commended the Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs Diezani Alison-Madueke’s innovative and meaningful reforms in the oil and gas sector, which include the Nigerian Local

Content Act, which had remained a key achievement in the sector.

He also commended the Executive Secretary, Nigerian Local Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Ernest Nwakpa, for giving the Board all the necessary lift from the scratch.

The seminar, which would be held in Abuja, would feature leaders of students association from higher institutions across the 36 states and the F.C.T, PTDF Local Scholarship Scheme Scholars, stakeholders, youth leaders, among others. IBANGA is a 500 level student of Chemical/Petroleum Department, UNIJOS and also the National Secretary of National Association of Natural Science Students.

Come to our aid, students tell Fashola •Continued fron page 31 a university of this era and age is a pitiable situation that depicts the pitiable status of the school. It is a pitiable situation because the school has not been able to provide some basic amenities for adequate and effective learning after even collecting such huge amount of money as school fees from the last intakes.”

Another 200 level student, Yahya, described the situation as unfortunate.

“While we were receiving lecture under the tree, many were smiling but actually, it is a suffering and smiling situation. The students were smiling receiving lecture under the tree but we are suffering. It is not cheering at all to report that undergraduate receives lecture under the trees. It is so demeaning to the academic glory of any institution of learning.”

Another student, Memud, urged the management to seek urgent solution to the situation so that the next sets of students won’t

Students taking notes

experience similar challenges.

Hear him: “I would say the fault should be credited to the school management because

they had promised at the implementation of the high school fees that they would improve the standard at which education is being laid out to students. If all these programmes have

been put in place, they would have been something to write home about.”

Our reporter also sought the comment of the Public Relations Officer of the university, Dr Sola Fosudo, who described the report opf having lectures under tree shades as spurious, negative and unfounded.

“There are adequate classrooms and lecture halls in Lagos State University. I repeat, there are adequate classrooms. I can beat my heart and tell you that”, he said.

Fosudo insisted that no lecturer would teach under tree shades, noting that group works, tutorials, workshops or rehearsals could be held anywhere on campus.

Although the school’s spokesman denied the report, other students told our reporter that they were suffering in silence.

Emboldened by the quick response of the Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Raji Fashola, to issues on education, they pleaded with Campus Square to make their cry be heard in Governor’s Office, Alausa for a brighter rewarding future for the university.

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

DAILY SUN

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CAMPUS SQUARE Where students report happenings on their campuses... with Sam Otti ( campuseditor@yahoo.com/08038829740)

“My father taught me to work; he did not teach me to love it” -– William Adams

•Some of the students during the carnival

UNILAG ushers in golden jubilee celebrations with carnival

By KAYODE AMOLEGBE

T

he 50th anniversary celebrations of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Akoka, kicked off recently with a carnival at the main campus.

The programme coordinator, Cornelius Onyekaba, said the school initiated the carnival, as part of the activities lined up for the celebrations.

The event highlighted the cultures and carnival styles of countries like Brazil, China, Cuba, Egypt, Ghana, India, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago and South Africa.

Our reporter learnt that the carnival would be the official event of Creative Art department and other faculties of the university and the Theatre Art and Music of the Lagos State University (LASU).

The organizers had a hectic day coordinating the event, which featured large turnout of participants from different schools.

One of the participants at the carnival, who gave her name as Shola, a 400 level Creative Art student, described the event

as a feast of fun in spite of the crowd.

‘It is not easy but it is fun, am enjoying myself. It is not easy to be 50’, she said.

The carnival kicked off at 11:15 a.m. within the campus premises, from the Senate House parking lot to the Main Gate, to the Faculty of Education,

UNIPORT students win Blackberry in rap contest

By ESTHER JOY OWHOR

T

he memory of Wednesday, September 12 would remain a memorable day in the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT). It was the day of the Blackberry campus lunchtime event tagged, “SING IT” “RAP IT”.

The entertainment programme, which was sponsored by BlackBerry, began at

• To attend London School of Music, too 4pm at the Convocational Arena. It was a rap programme for students, featuring groups competing for the prize.

In the first stage, 10 groups took the stage and presented their music from where five groups were nominated for the next stage.

In the second stage, the remaining five groups slugged it out, where two groups

exams. Armed security personnel were seen in large numbers on campus during the period of the examination to maintain peace and order.

were eliminated.

The final stage was more competitive and spectacular, such that the judges were so confused on deciding on a winner. The judges had to allow the audience to decide for the last stage.

Finally, the audience nominated the winners, which had two boys and one girl.

They were rewarded with Blackberry 9320 Smartphone each. The winners also won the slot to attend the exclusive London School of music for two weeks and performance at youth award event, featuring Blackberry Nigerian top 10 radio show.

The event was rounded off by a splendid performance by Ice Prince, as he sang Whatsup whatsup, juju dey Wori me and Super Star.

•Asuquo is a 400 level Law student of Rivers State University

•Owhor is a 200 level student of Accounting, UNIPORT

Pro- Chancellor to lecturers

Resign if you are not ready to work

By GODSTIME ASUQUO BASSEY

T

he Pro -Chancellor of the Rivers State University of Science and Technology (RSUST) Nkpolu, Port Harcourt, Justice Adolphus KaribiWhite (retired), has upheld the reappointment of Prof. Barineme Fakae as the Vice Chancellor.

He said Fakae, who had completed his tenure, was eligible to be re-appointed as the Vice Chancellor.

This was contained in a memo sent to the Senate of the university. He ragued that the appointment and reappointment of the vice chancellor was governed by the provision of the University of Science and Technology Law Cap. 133, Vol. 6 Laws of River State.

According to the Pro-Chancellor, any of the lecturers who is not satisfied with the re-appointment of Prof Fakae as the Vice Chancellor, should resign.

This is coming after Governor Rotimi Amaechi, told the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), RSUST chapter,

Ransome-Kuti, Distance Learning Institute (DLI), Health Centre, StaffSchool, Science, Moremi Car-Park and back to Senate House Parking Lot. The highlights of the occasion were performances by upcoming artistes, music, dance and fireworks.

to go to court if they were not satisfied with Fakae’s re-appointment.

Following the feud, the Senate had at its 189th meeting recently, resolved that there would be no extension of the school calendar for any reason and therefore directed all students to return to school for

Panic in ESUT, as VC returns amid heavy security

By SUNDAY OBINNA VINCENT

T

here is a popular saying that a child stung by a wild bee flees at the sight of a harmless housefly. The Vice Chancellor, Enugu State University (ESUT), Prof Cyprain Onyeji, must have learnt his lessons after spending many days in kidnappers’ den.

A gang of heavily armed kidnappers abducted him on August 7 at the school gate, but he was released after a week.

His subsequent freedom from the kidnappers, who had earlier demanded N50m ransom, brought jubilation on campus and

among his relatives, staff and students.

Our reporter gathered that Onyeji spread a wave of fear on his return, as he drove into the school with a truck load of heavily armed army men, the sight which drove several students back to their hostels.

One of the students, Chidi, who spoke with our reporter said although the VC had been released, fear of insecurity still loomed over the institution like a dreaded plague. “How long would the Vice Chancellor be coming to school with a truck load of armed security men, as if he was on a peace- keeping mission. We thought that after his release, he would urgently look into the security lapses in the

university”, he said.

Another student, Chike, pleaded with the state government to erect a high perimeter fence around the institution to ward off hoodlums.

“It is a well known fact that the ESUT has not been fenced and this has resulted to threats to lives and property in the university community. The pro-chancellor during his visit to the university promised that the fencing would commence this year but that is yet to commence”, he said.

•Vincent is a 200 level student of Applied Micobiology and Brewing, ESUT

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DAILY SUN Tuesday, October 2, 2012

CAMPUS SQUARE Where students report happenings on their campuses... with Sam Otti (campuseditor@yahoo.com/08038829740)

“98% of the people who get the magazine say they read the cartoons first - and the other 2% are lying” -– David Remnick

American University, Enterprise Bank strike deal

By EBUKA UKOH WILLIAMS

T

he American University of Nigeria, (AUN) Yola, Adamawa State, is working towards a partnership with Enterprise Bank Limited, a financial institution specializing in e-business solutions for corporate organizations (software, internet service and web hosting).

This new deal will enable e-consumers in the university to access vast array of e-banking products.

In the meeting with the Chief Financial Officer, Mr. Tony Agbo, Chief Information Officer and Acting Human Resources Director, Mr. Julius Ayuk Tabe, and Senior Director, Information Systems, Mr. Jordan Momani, the Enterprise Bank team led by Executive Director, Abuja/North, Mr. Audu Kazir, Group Head (e-Business), Mrs. Ori Ogba, and the IT Team Lead (Application Support), Mr. Saheed Adedeji, discussed possible areas of liaison with AUN, including financing and technology-based services and

Don explains the right use of cartoons

By ADEBAYO ADEKUNLE

A

lecturer at the University of Wisconsin, Madison, USA, Prof. Tejumola Olaniyan, has described newspaper cartoons as visual satire. He stated this during a seminar organized by the Institute of Cultural Studies, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, held recently.

In his lecture titled: ‘The Bigness of Richness: Wealth, Power, and Body Size in African Political cartoons’– which was an abridged version of his yet-to-be-published book, ‘Political Cartoonists in Africa’, Prof. Olaniyan said: ‘One of the most common features of African political cartoons is the portrayal of figures who are bodily ample, bulky, fleshy and large.’ He described these features as the aesthetics of corpulence.

He said that though being bodily corpulent was associated with happy living or affluence, the use of corpulent figures in African cartoons depict a starkly different function as they are not used to denote anything positive.

According to him, ‘the essence of cartoon is satire. So, it cannot outrightly glorify anything and still remain a cartoon. A cartoon has to simplify and exaggerate to make the point.’

‘The preference for corpulence is not medical at all but thoroughly social. The corpulent person in African cartoon is not an obese or fat person in dire need of therapeutic, medical or otherwise but a wealthy and therefore powerful and distinctive person at whose feet the thinning majority must prostrate.

‘So, the corpulent person in this context points to the image, no doubt primal in the human conscience, of someone who has eaten too much, consumed far more than the fair share of the communal wealth… and this is to have the ability to prevent others others from consuming.

Corpulence becomes a more visually stunning kind of power,’ the professor clarified.

He said that while corpulence in African cartoon represents unmerited power and wealth, skinniness or thinness is a symbol of being marginalised or oppressed; and also that the targets of cartoon may be specific as in the case of political or popular personalities or generic such as referring to police officers, landlords, teachers or others.

He, however, observed that cartoonists have

solutions.

At the meeting held recently, Mr. Agbo said the university was interested in shoring up its e-services on a platform that was quite broad in the area of finance and technology delivery.

He noted that the university was interested in exploring how Enterprise Bank services would complement its operations and sustainable mutually beneficial partnership.

In response, Mr. Kazir said the bank was “fully positioned” to do business at AUN.” He observed that with over 160 branches, and a liquidity ratio of over 10 per cent, Enterprise Bank can honor its entire financial obligations.

“We can compete with any other bank in Nigeria; we are very strong and very competitive,” he said.

Also speaking, Mrs. Ogba said Enterprise Bank was bringing to AUN “... a number of innovative and creative products that will serve in the area of convenience, speed and customer satisfaction.”

Since the cashless economy initiative is taking roots in the Nigerian business environment, Mrs. Ogba said Enterprise Bank will bring to AUN, “... an array of electronic prod-

ucts such as a portal deployment that enables students to do their registration, pay school fees and any other administrative fees.”

Enterprise Bank will also offer much more to students and faculty as well. “We are going to offer students a biometric card that will not only serve as student ID, but will also give them the opportunity to make payments via all the available channels.”

For faculty members, she said, “their salaries can be made through a very innovative application that enables them to get their payment immediately, whether it is in dollars or naira.”

Other bank products discussed with the AUN team include retail finance, mobile payments, and student loans, which she specifically said Enterprise Bank can help AUN to secure with the implementation of the partnership.

The bank’s representatives agreed to do a presentation at a later date where further discussions pertaining to the project and actual agreement would be held. Following the meeting, the team embarked on a tour of AUN facilities, including locations where their ATMs will be sited on campus.

LASU, UNILAG students to rock till dawn Prof. Tejumola

problems representing, in their ridiculously exaggerated template, certain people who are big already and women whose belly could not be blown up without giving the impression of pregnancy; but that they find a way of going about the problem.

Prof. Awopetu, the chairman of the programme, who had earlier stated that one of the reasons he bought newspapers is cartoon, said, ‘we can now appreciate the role of cartoon in our lives.’

Recall that programmes of this nature have been monthly recurring in the institute since Prof. Gbemisola Adeoti became the Director of the institute.

By OLASUNKANMI OLUKOREDE SAKA

AROWOLO

and demic community has unconsciously caused in the students’ mind. It also serves as a point of socialization without discrimination. The show ampus- based entertainment body, also serves as a medium where special talents Kogbagidi Entertainments (KGB Ent) are showcased. All the guest artistes would be has concluded arrangements for a selected from the pool of talented students, colour block after exams party for students which would also create awareness about future artistes,” he said. of tertiary institutions in Lagos.

Olasunkanmi said adequate security arrangeStudents of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) and Lagos State University (LASU) ment had been made. Hear him: “We wrote to the Assistant Inspector- General of Police, Zone would feature at the event.

The Chief Executive Officer, KGB Ent, 2 and he gave us a letter to the Divisional Police Taoreed Olasunkanmi, who is also a final year Officer (DPO), Ikeja to provide us with Rapid student of Industrial Relations and Personnel Response Squad (RRS) HILUX vehicle outside Management (IRPM), LASU, said the party the premises and the management of the event would help students reduce examination stress. place provided OP-MESA to beef up security.”

This after-examination party for Lagos stu“It’s primarily to clear tension which the acadents, according to the organizers, would be the first of its kind in the state. Considering the fact that the group had been organizing similiar entertainment events since 2010 on different campuses, many students are already gearing up for the event.

Mayowa Adeyinka, 200 level Mass between N80,000 and N100,000 every year.

Communication, LASU, told Campus Square Obi said the landlords deliberately fleece poor that all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. students by increasing rents arbitrarily, a situa- “It is a good thing to hold this kind of gathering tion which he described as unfair and unbecom- as students in LASU, UNILAG, and AACOED ing. would be attending same to ease tension and Another student, Ada Ezeh, lamented the poor foster socialization”, he said. condition of the rented apartments, saying, “the Adeyinka noted that aside the pleasure of parincrease is not justifiable because there are no tying, the event would provide an interactive new structures to justify the increase. The hous- platform for students from other institutions. es are in poor conditions, coupled with adequate Also, Orji Emeka, a 200 level student of water supply, security, yet, landlords still Political Science of same school said the party increased the rents. We want the government to would serve as an exam relief strategy. save us this distress by building students’ hostel, •Arowolo and Saka are 200 level students of which would be given out at considerable rate.

Mass Comm, LASU

C

Okorocha must hear this: IMSU students beg for hostel facility

By NNAEMEKA SUCCESS

S

tudents of Imo State University (IMSU) have appealed to the state government to urgently provide them hostel accommodation.

Campus Square learnt that since the inception of the university in 1992, students have been living off campus.

Investigation by our reporter revealed that many landlords in the area took advantage of the situation and hiked their rents. One of the students, Obi Paschal, told this reporter that students living in these rented apartments spend

CONTRIBUTORS THIS WEEK

Esther

Godstime Kunle Obinna Nsisong •EDITOR’S NOTE: We welcome reports of happenings on your campus. Send them to the above e-mail address, accompanied by your name and recent photograph, and photographs of personalities/ event you are reporting.

Arowolo

Ebuka

DAILY SUN

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

37

Education Review/NEWS “The best leaders aren’t the guys who walk around telling people what to do. The best leaders are the guys who cast a vision & invite others into their story” – Donald Miller

Promise kept: Orji returns school to missions, others as recipients call for rehabilitation for effective take-off From CHUKS ONUOHA, Umuahia

I

t turned out to be a promise kept when the Governor of Abia State, Chief Theodore Orji, in a ceremony, handed over schools established in the good old days to their original owners, who were mainly missionaries and private investors.

But in a swift reaction, the Catholic Bishop of Umuahia Diocese, Most Rev Luscious Ugorji, after receiving the schools under his umbrella, called on the governor to rehabilitate the schools for effective takeoff.

The bishop’s call became necessary because all the schools returned to their original owners are dilapidated, from many years of neglect. Ugorji thanked the governor and assured that the proprietors are committed to excellence and will strive to inject morality and spirituality in the education system of the state.

Recall that government took over the schools 42 years ago, with the intention of operating something of higher standards than were obtained under their original owners.

But 42 years on, the situation seemed to have gone from bad to worse. The governor did not mince words in charging them to ensure that the maintenance of moral, discipline and high academic standards.

To relieve the financial burden that they may face, the governor announced that their teachers will still remain on the payroll of his government and would receive their pensions and gratuity like their counterparts in government-owned schools. A total of 17 out of 19 schools were returned to the church, while the remaining went to private investors.

In returning the schools, the Governor noted that since its take-over of the schools, there

had been steady moral decadence, indiscipline and a drastic fall in the academic standards as well as high crime rates among students. He recalled that the clamour for return of schools to their original owners started in 1999 and that it was in response to that agitation, that his government set up a committee to recommend modalities for handing over.

Orji called on the owners to ensure that the new partnership improves the standard to give total education to the children. The takeover of the schools by the former East Central State government was done through the Education Edict of 1970 while their return by Abia State Government was made possible by the Education Law No. 5 of 2011.

The schools handed over include the Wilcox Comprehensive Secondary School, Ogbor Hill, Aba owned by Qua Ibo Church, Ihie High School, Ihie owned by the Seventh Day Adventist Church, Eziama High School, Aba owned by Apostolic Christian Church, Evangel High School, Umuahia, owned by the Assemblies of God Church and All Saints Secondary School, Ehere Aba, owned by the Presbyterian Church.

Others are the Methodist College, Uzuakoli, Girls Secondary School, Ovim Girls High School, Ugwunchara and Ngodo Girls Secondary School, Ngodo, owned by the Methodist Church Nigeria; The Sacred Heart College, Eziukwu, Aba, Maria Coronate Secondary School, Ohafia, Olokoro High School Olokoro, Holy Ghost Technical School, Olokoro and Girls Secondary School, Umuahia, owned by the Catholic Church.

The rest are Ovom Girls High school, Ovom, Aba, Grammar School, Nbawsi and Ngwa High school, Umuahia, Abayi, Aba owned by the Anglican Church as well as Iheorji Secondary School, Aba and Secondary

•Gov Orji handing over certificate of ownership to Bishop Ugorji Technical School, Ogbor Hill, Aba, owned by private individuals.

In handing over the schools, Orji noted that government is anxious to see an improvement in the standard of education at all levels in the state and saw the handover as reasonable and therefore urged beneficiaries to see the venture as a special privilege to be cherished to develop the education industry. He pledged to give subvention to the affected schools as well as to meet other obligations spelt out in the

conditions for the handover.

In her speech, the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Monica Philips, noted that the governor is committed to the development of the education sector since education remains the key to development. The chairman of the occasion, Gen. Ike Nwachukwu Rtd. saluted the resourcefulness of the governor that prompted it to return the schools to their former owners and called on private investors to invest in the education sector.

Nwankwo, Ofonagoro blame education’s poor standard on empty libraries

By SAM OTTI

T

culture by enabling students to have access to reading materials, and this is one way of supporting that. I did well when I was in school in the ’50s because I had access to books from the state library and this enhanced my performance in national and international examinations. But the reverse is now the case, as most schools lack books in their libraries and a students end up photocopying reading materials. The situation is such that a school with student population of 30,000 would not have up to one million books in its library. This is wrong because the school I graduated from in America had over 10 million books in its library.”

It must be noted that Nwankwo took off to the UK as an embodiment of communal hope. But he didn’t betray his people. He went, he saw and

conquered! He returned 12 years later a thorough-scholar and became the pioneer Head of Department of Finance and former Dean of Faculty of Business Administration, University of Lagos. Looking back at his academic sojourn of many years, he told Education Review with a broad smile that, “I did more than what my kinsmen asked from me. I read the white man’s book. I studied it, I passed it, I wrote it and I lectured it.”

He returned home to embrace fame and fortune. Aside serving as the former President of the CIBN, he is currently a professor of finance, and the traditional ruler of Aro-Amuro Autonomous community in Okigwe, Imo State.

Nwankwo told Education Review that, on his return from abroad, he met an empty bookshelf

wo distinguished scholars, Profs. Green Nwankwo and Walter Ofonagoro have blamed the country’s poor educational standard on empty libraries that in the nation’s tertiary institutions. Both men of intellectual sagacity made this declaration recently, at the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), Lagos during the presentation of 8,000 books by Nwankwo to 200 institutions across the country.

By this gesture, Nwankwo may have toed the line of Benjamin Franklin, one of the founding fathers of the United States of America, who said: “If a man empties his pocket into his head, no man can take it away from him; an investment in knowledge always pays the best interest.”

In 1960, Nwankwo emptied his pocket into his head when he travelled to United Kingdom.

He had with him a penholder and ink given to him by his kinsmen. Before his departure, they had invoked on him their communal blessings and sent him off to conquer the white man’s land, saying, “our son, if you get there, make sure you study the white man’s book, read it and write it.”

Nwankwo did not disappoint their expectation.

Speaking at the event, the donor said: “One of the imperatives of success is knowledge. You gain knowledge from reading. By reading, you are drawing inspiration from the experiences of others. Reading makes you to converse with the world and your value system gets improved in the process. Our students of today do not read again because the libraries are empty and it is a very big problem.”

Corroborating Nwankwo’s observation, Ofonagoro, who was the chairman on the occa- L-R: Dr. Ipaye, Dr Majekodunmi, Prof. Nwankwo, Mr. Aina, and Prof. Ofonagoro, during sion, said: “We have to encourage the reading the book donation in Lagos recently.

at the Finance Department of the University of Lagos. The dearth of indigenous literature for both staff and students weighed on him like an incubus. Hear him: “On my return in 1972 to set up the Department of Finance at the University of Lagos, I found there was no indigenous literature and I found it odd that after lecturing for many years overseas, where I had plenty of reading materials, I came back to discover that only two books were available at that time in the school. The two books, one was written by an American and the other by an English author.

They were all talking of foreign experiences.”

Although Nwankwo seemed much happier today that the Nigerian education sector had expanded tremendously in terms of quantity, he is nonetheless worried by the low quality standard of these institutions. He has sworn to promote the legacy of learning at his own personal cost.

It is pertinent to note that the Professor Green Nwankwo Foundation donated 8,000 books to 200 institutions and state libraries across the nation. Each benefiting institution got at least 40 different titles. The event had in attendance former President, Olusegun Obasanjo, represented

by Dr Femi Majekodunmi; the representative of Governor Rauf Aregbesola of Osun State, Dr Adeleke Ipaye; the President, CIBN, Mr. Segun Aina and other dignitaries. The donated books were works published by Prof. Nwankwo, covering areas like finance, banking, governance, economics, social sciences, and so on.

Nwankwo urged the beneficiaries to reciprocate the gesture by promoting investment in knowledge. The royal father expressed shock over the continuous loss of values in the society. He implored that all hands be on deck to rescue the nation from distress. The traditional ruler also advised the government to close the resource gaps in the education sector by motivating lecturers and equipping public universities to an enviable standard.

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DAILY SUN Tuesday, October 2, 2012

NEWS/Education Review “It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken adults.” – Frederick Douglass

The lamentation of Adesua Oseghale:

ABU invites ‘I weep when my pupils cry over their Carter, Annan, parents’ inability to pay their school fees’ Mugabe, for 50th H anniversary

BY ORI MARTINS

ow do you feel as a managing director of a private school seeing willing pupils wailing for being sent home for the failure of their parents and guardians to pay their tuition fees? It is even more traumatizing if you consider that these pupils are just kids of less than five years.

This is the challenge that the proprietress of TESS Private Schools, Akute –Odo, Akute in Ifo Local Government Area of Ogun State, Mrs, Adesua Celestina Oseghale, faces from time to time. In an exclusive interview with Education Review, the proprietress, she expressed concern over the touching behaviour of some of her pupils who usually burst into tears each time they are sent home over their parents’ inability to pay their school fees.

Noting that she is always caught between motherly sympathy and professional obligations, the proprietress said: ‘I can confirm to you that I am usually at crossroads, not knowing whether to apply my motherly tenderness or toeing to professional inclinations anytime I see any of my pupils crying because he/she is sent home for failure of her parents or guardians to pay fees. Imagine a kid of about three, four or five years crying that he must stay back in the school to learn while he is stopped from the day’s activities for tuition fees or levies! You may not understand what I am telling you unless you are a caring mother or an affectionate father. It can be very traumatizing. The child is crying because he wants to follow his mates to learn and to play in the school but commitment demands that he pays his school fees to keep the place functional while leniency submits that you, as the proprietress should consider such a child. But what happens when there are about 10 or more of them?

Therefore, I always pray to God to provide for all parents and guardians who have

Oseghale

wards in my school so that no child shouts ‘mommy, I do not want to go home’. It is not always easy for me to send such pupils away.”

The proprietress insists that she also cries, plays and learns alongside her pupils to motivate them to pay attention to their teachers. According to her: “I am a teacher, an educationist and a mother, so, I know what it means to bring up a child in both formal and informal standards. The child quickly adapts to whatever his parents, teachers or the society around him presents to him. This is why it is easier for a child to learn languages than

adults. And to ensure that any child in any of our schools is well-trained, I come down to their levels. I mean, if any child runs to me, because I am always around, crying perhaps that he had been flogged by his class teacher, I would feign crying myself and before you know it, the kid will stop weeping. Also, if I go on routine checks and discover that a particular pupil needs extra attention in any form, I usually do not shy away in joining the teachers to find solutions to the kid’s problems.”

She disclosed that she went into the business of private school because majority of the public schools no longer attract parents and guardians because they are not wellequipped. “Most parents are pissed off with what is happening in our public schools of today. I mean, unless we want to deceive ourselves the attraction is no longer in public schools. They were during our time but today, they are not. The same way the private sector has taken over communications business in Nigeria so also it has done the same thing to school management. Except some public schools and they are all federal schools, tell me how many of the public schools you know that are doing well? They are not. The parents know this and that is why most of them now patronize public schools and they are very happy about it,” she explained.

On why she went into private school business, the ever-smiling educationist disclosed that she had always admired children, pointing out that most of her friends even in adult life were kids. She said: “I was motivated to establish TESS Group of Schools because I have always admired kids right from my primary school days. In fact, to underscore my love for children, I chose the name of the school from my kids who are all boys. The T is for Timothy, the E stands for Emmanuel, the two S stands for Sylvester and Stephen respectively. My four children are all boys and I took the first letter of all their names to arrive at TESS.”

Provost insists Ilorin College of Education can run degree programmes LAYI OLANREWAJU, Ilorin.

T

he Provost of Kwara State College of Education, Ilorin, Dr. Abdulrahmon Ibrahim, has spoken of the need of the college to become a degree-awarding institution as one of the oldest state-owned Colleges of Education in the country.

He disclose this to journalists shortly after launching the two buses, a generating set and three buildings as well as declaring open the 12-room modern toilet facilities donated by the FinBank Plc in the campus.

According to him, the college is highly blessed with requisite manpower with about 35 doctorate holders among its academic staff.

To him, the institution has adequate manpower required to run degree programmes. “We have what it takes to run degree programmes in this institution. First, this is one of the oldest Colleges of Education in the country, which means we have come a long way in age and experience.”

He disclosed that the institution had been able to utilise over N300 million accessed from the Educational Trust Fund (ETF) for the infrastructural development of the college.

Ibrahim revealed that the secret behind his achievements in the school especially in the area of infrastructural development was the support his management team had been giving him since he assumed office two years ago. He

pledged to ameliorate the plight of the staff and students and to work harder for the greater heights of the institution.

He gave account of the N250 million that was accessed initially and insisted that it was spent on capital projects or infrastructure while about N70 million went for capacity-building and human capital development as enshrined in the ETF proposal for access.

He lauded the state government for its fund-

ing of the college as well as on the ongoing education reforms in the state, noting that the recourse to the special fund is indicative that the state government cannot do it alone. Thus, in tune with the state government’s directive of education policy thrust in favour of integrated science and vocational education, the institution has already got two additional laboratories as well as a tractor with five other ancillaries.”

By BIMBOLA OYESOLA

F

ormer President of the United States, Mr. Jimmy Carter, exUnited Nations Secretary-General, Mr. Kofi Annan and Zimbabwean President, Mr. Robert Mugabe, are among top international figures that will be bestowed honorary doctorate degrees of the Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, as it marks its 50th anniversary between October 4 and November 24, 2012.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, who disclosed this in a statement signed by his Media Adviser, Malam Waziri Isa Gwantu, said other top leaders and awardees of the honorary doctorate degrees expected to be a part of the epoch-making event include former President of South Africa, Mr. Thabo Mbeki, and his former Namibian counterpart, Sam Nujoma.

The statement said ABU is reputed for its meticulousness and sense of objectivity in selecting only credible and selfless leaders who have served humanity and declared them worthy of the award.

“The institution is committed to maintaining this laudable and rare principle imbibed from the late founder of the university, Sir Ahmadu Bello, Sardauna of Sokoto”, the statement added.

The vice-chancellor has, however, appealed for the support of its great alumni, friends and stakeholders to join hands directly with the university’s management or liaise with the national or international leadership of the alumni to support the ongoing preparations to make the one-month event a memorable, unique and successful one.

Prof. Mustapha said that an up-to-date list of ABU alumni had been screened and assessed for the purpose of commencing nomination of outstanding and distinguished members to be honoured with the ‘Sir Ahmadu Bello Golden Award’ during the event.

Students bemoan fate over non-release of NECO certificates From EMMANUEL OGOIGBE, Warri

T

he National Examinations Council (NECO) has criticised in Delta State over its delay in releasing certificates to students who sat for exams more than five years ago. Education Review gathered that the body had allegedly frustrated hundreds of such students.

In a protest organized recently in Warri and Effurun, some students who sat for the exams from 2008 but are yet to get their certificates, wondered what was hindering NECO from issuing them with certificates.

Worried over the situation, the students called on the Minister of Education Prof (Mrs) Ruqqayatu Rufa’i to come to their rescue and cause NECO to release their certifi-

cates.

“We are confused over the attitude of the NECO towards our certificates. In fact, they are not bothered over our plight at all, hence we are appealing to the minister, President Goodluck Jonathan and concerned Nigerians to intervene in our case,” one of the students who refused to be identified said.

They threatened to take NECO to court if nothing urgent is done to remedy the situation. “NECO has only succeeded in killing education in Nigeria, hence we are also calling on the Federal Government to intervene and resolve it,” they pleaded. “WAEC does not waste time in releasing its own results, so why is it taking NECO half a decade to release its certificates?,’’ some of the placards displayed by the protesters, read.

Prof Rufa’i

Tuesday, October 2, 2012 DAILY SUN

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Education Review/INTERVIEW “The thing always happens that you really believe in; and the belief in a thing makes it happen” – Frank Lloyd Wright

Prof. J.O. Ogbuagu’s mission at Fed. Col. of Education (Technical), Umunze, Anambra State:

‘To ensure harmonious relationship among management, staff and students’ •Prof. Ogbuagu

From DOM EKPUNOBI, Onitsha

P

rof. Joseph Okechukwu Ogbuagu is an astute educationist whose devotion, dedication and experience have combined to lift the Federal College of Education (Technical), Umunze, Anambra State, to a dizzying intellectual height in the past two years. His efforts have resulted into the award of degree in some courses, while its annual intake of students has doubled, owing to great improvement in teaching and learning facilities under his administration.

At present, the permanent site of the college is being developed at a very fast pace even as the World Bank picks the bills for the supply of equipment and other resources needed for the smooth take-off of its proposed Skill Acquisition Centre. This, it was argued, would ensure increased training of middle level skilled manpower. Education Review called at the college and had a chat with the amiable young professor.

He talked about himself, the Federal College of Education (Technical) Umunze, which he had been overseeing in the past two years, educational development in the country and his plans for the institution. Excerpts: SIR, TELL OUR READERS ABOUT YOURSELF, YOUR EDUCATION BACKGROUND, ETC. My names are Prof. Joseph Okechukwu Ogbuagu. I had my primary education at Umuowelle Primary School, Agulu, my hometown, from 1971-1976. From there, I gained admission into Bubendorf Memorial Grammar School, Adazi and finished with an excellent result in 1981. Later that year (1981), I gained admission into University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN) where I obtained a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) Hons in Pure Chemistry in 1985. After my graduation, I served in the National Youth Service Corps at Government Day Secondary School and later at the College of Agriculture, Zuru in former Sokoto State. I was offered a job

thereafter but I later went back to UNN and obtained a Master of Science (M.Sc) in Analytical Chemistry in 1992 and later joined the university as a Research Fellow at the National Centre for Energy Research and Development with a parallel appointment as a lecturer in the Department of Pure and Industrial Chemistry. In 1994, I joined the Nnamdi Azikiwe Universtity, Awka as a staff. Over the years, I’ve written for both local and international journals and contributed to five textbooks.

ARE THERE SOME SPECIAL MARKS YOU ATTAINED WHICH YOU WOULD LET THE READER KNOW ABOUT? I am listed in numerous biographical reference books including the Marquis Who is Who in the World, the Marquis Who is Who in Science and Engineering and the contemporary Who’s Who of Professionals. I am a fellow of several Professional bodies e.g Fellow, Solar Energy Society of Nigeria, Fellow, Institution of Development Administration of Nigeria (FIDA); Fellow, Chemical Society of Nigeria FCSN, Fellow, Institution of Chartered Chemist of Nigeria (FICCON); Fellow, Institution of Corporate Administration of Nigeria (FSM) etc.

HAVE YOU WON ANY AWARD? I have won several awards, but I will just mention only a few. They include: Distinguished Professional Award by National Council of Inner Wheels Club of Nigeria; Professional Excellence Award by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Anambra State chapter, Unity Service/Excellence Award for Outstanding Contribution of Youths and Humanity, by the students Union Government (SUG) of Nnamdi Azikiwe Universtiy, Awka etc.

COMPARE THE STANDARD OF EDUCATION TODAY WITH WHAT IT WAS WHEN YOU WERE IN SCHOOL AS A STUDENT. DO YOU AGREE WITH THE NOTION THAT THE

STANDARD HAD FALLEN? We are always in a hurry to say that the standard of education had fallen. I think we have a problem only in Science and Technology. It is important to consider the ages of the children who were in school then and compare them with the those of the children in school now.

We should also look at the school curriculum then and what we have now. The curriculum now is much more sophisticated than that of those days and the children in school these days are much more tender than school children of those days. If we look at the whole thing critically, we will be convinced that the standard has not fallen even though like I say that we need to make some adjustment in Science and Technology.

have not had any students’demonstration or staff strike or protest. We work as a family here so, I do not have any staff or students-induced stress.

YOU SAY THE NATION HAS PROBLEM IN SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, WHAT IS THE SOLUTION? My suggestion is that we do a technical adjustment on the curriculum, provide necessary equipment and manpower to handle those key areas, stop distractions that are caused by insecurity, de-emphasise private schools. It is a common knowledge that some of the leaders are not interested in developing public schools because their children are not even in the country and some of them who keep their children here, put them in private schools. We must re-evaluate our value system if we must get things right.

WHAT WAS THE MOST INTERESTING SCRIPT YOU EVER MARKED AS A LECTURER? None is remarkable, but whenever I mark the script of spectacular intelligent students, they give me joy.

WHAT WOULD YOU CONSIDER AS THE GREATEST BOOK YOU EVER READ? The Holy Bible is the greatest book I have ever read and I still read it daily because it draws me closer to God and helps me live my life in a godly way. Apart from the Bible, I read Chemistry books mostly and then, books on education.

WHICH WAS YOUR MOST MEMORABLE DAY OR DAYS AS A STUDENT? The last days of the school session were memorable because those were the days when we received our results. I always took the first position in class and I looked forward to that day.

HOW WOULD YOU ASSESS YOUR PERFORMANCE SO FAR IN THIS COLLEGE AS THE PROVOST? Without being immodest, I have done very well. The college has now been upgraded to a degree awarding institution; our students’ intake has increased tremendously from 864 when I came in to more then 3,500 now. Last year, we admitted 2,121 students for NCE and this year, WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST CHALLENGE we took more than 2000. We now have capacity ON THE JOB AND HOW HAVE YOU BEEN for 3,031 NCE students and our degree students ABLE TO SURMOUNT IT? are 500.

My greatest challenge is to ensure that standards are met in teaching, in learning, in staffing WHAT IS YOUR MOST MEMORABLE DAY and in providing facilities. The most challenging IN THIS COLLEGE? is to ensure that the management relates well My most memorable day here was the day we with the staff and that the staff get on well with matriculated the first batch of degree students. It students. I want to make sure that students feel was a landmark achievement and I am so happy proud when they remember the college. for it.

HOW MUCH DOES THIS JOB TAKE OUT OF YOU? I devote my whole life to this job. After my family, the college is my next interest. Whatever I do, I am always in touch with the college deans.

Two days ago, I received a call at 2.30am to attend to an issue concerning the college.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE COLLEGE AND THE HOST COMMUNITY? The relationship is very cordial. We don’t have any problem with the people. They are hospitable and we co-operate with them to ensure peaceful co-existence. Our students are disciplined so there is harmony both within the school YOUR SADDEST DAY IN THE COLLEGE? and between the college and the host communiI have not had any serious ugly experience. I ty.

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DAILY SUN Tuesday, October 2, 2012

Education Review “I come here as a mom whose girls are the heart of my heart and the center of my world - they’re the first thing I think about when I wake up in the morning, and the last thing I think about when I go to bed at night. Their future - and all our children’s

SPOTLIGHT: Human Interest Story

Megan, please, come home!

How the heart of a British mum was broken by her 15-year-old daughter who eloped to France with her 30-year-old Math teacher

By CHIKA ABANOBI

C

heck it out, very well. In your school or home, could there be any girl like Megan Stammers, the 15-year-old British schoolgirl who eloped to France with Mr. Jeremy Forrest, her 30-year-old Mathematics teacher, on September 21?

And, could there be any teacher like Mr. Forrest somewhere preying on your schoolgirls?

Then, it is time to do something before it is too late. Actually, there had been something fishy or inappropriate going on between the teacher and his student, months before the embarrassing incident, but the words of few people (staff and students) who noticed and reported the matter to the school authorities at Bishop Bell School in Eastbourne, East Sussex, England, were not acted upon although the school claimed that it had actually concluded plans to suspend Forrest that Friday they left for France.

Many people who know about the case believe that he must have been tipped off, hence his decision to travel out of town before the hammer of suspension falls on him. Before the incident, Forrest had been a lot of things to Megan – class teacher, afterclass (or extra-mural) teacher, lover, etc.

As a Mathematics teacher, he taught her and other students very well and made easy for them difficult Mathematical concepts.

That endeared him to the heart of Megan. In fact, it was his competence in the subject that made Megan’s parents, Danielle Wilson, her mother, and Martin Stammers, her stepfather, to hire him to teach Megan Mathematics, after school hours. Lesson: be careful who you hire to teach your child extra-mural lessons. Or better still, keep a close watch on him while he is doing so.

Watch out for signs of inappropriate emotional feelings or relationship. Beware! That could be the beginning of a long journey or even a journey of no return.

The love that eventually took Megan away from England and from the care and protection of her parents, was believed to have been hatched, nurtured and cemented within that period of extra-mural classes.

But her parents did not suspect anything inappropriate going on between the two.

Neither did the school tell Megan’s parents because, according to the management, it was still investigating the reports it received from staff and students who expressed their concerns.

Nobody is sure whether intimacy had taken place between Megan and Forrest, but friends report a good number of telling tweets from Forrest to Megan expressing his love for her, and of wanting to hug her. In fact, the most recent of those tweets which Forrest, said to be an amateur singer or musician, sent to Megan, suggested their eloping or running away to a place where they would be free to further explore the love they have for each other. Megan, in a fit of what may have passed as “puppy love,” was said to have been so excited about the love-texts that she showed them to her friends. But when concerns were raised about the relationship between her and

•Megan

•Forrest

•Megan’s mum, Danielle

Forrest, she was said to have deleted her Twitter account.

Earlier this year, Megan and Forrest were said to have been spotted holding hands togeth-

er while sitting next to each other, during a tenhour flight excursion from US to England.

Those were a part of what formed the report sent to the school management.

“We are really angry the school did not do enough to protect Megan. And now no one knows where she is or if she’s coming back,” one of her school friends said in a newspaper interview. “I don’t know how it all started with Mr. Forrest but to begin with, she was really excited about it. She would tweet about being in love and show us his texts.

But after it was reported, she stopped and then deleted her Twitter account. She never spoke about it after that and she didn’t tell any of us that she was leaving. She probably knew we would stop her.”

The police were said to have been alerted, as well. But while investigation was reportedly on, Forrest sent to Megan a song he composed in memory of that contact on the plane. It was titled “Better Company.”

On Thursday, September 20, the last night before Megan disappeared from home, she was said to have asked for and obtained permission from her mother to spend the night with a friend, with the intention of going to school the following day, Friday, from there.

Her mum, Danielle, recalled seeing her transformed the moment she was granted the permission to sleep in her friend’s place that Thursday night. She even gave her dinner money. “She was really happy, jumping around. She grabbed my shoulders and she said to me, ‘Mum can you look me in the eye?’ I looked her in the eye and she said, ‘I love you’.”

It turned out to be a part of a grand plan to elope with her heartthrob, as nobody saw her and the teacher at school the following day.

By the time anybody knew, Megan and Forrest had, after riding in Forrest’s car and boarding a ferry, arrived in France, not for a weekend, as her family, police and concerned social authorities had hoped, but for a long stay. Megan did send an sms though, which the police said was not routed through her phone, to alert one of her school friends about her safe arrival in France.

The information prompted a worldwide appeal from her parents, the police and her school. “Sweetheart, I don’t care what you’ve done or why, I just want you home,” Danielle tweeted. “From me to you sweetheart, you know your adorable princess wants her adorable mermaid back.” Megan’s father, Martin Stammers, said: “We just want Megan to make contact with us. We are worried and miss her terribly. Please, get in touch, Megan.”

“We need to hear that you are OK.” Chief Inspector of Police, Jason Tingley said: “Your family and friends are extremely worried but you are not, and I must stress, you are not in any trouble.” To Mr. Forrest, he wrote: “Our priority is to know that Megan is safe. I would ask you to do the right thing and make contact with us. We will work with you to get you both safely back into this country.”

Megan’s stepfather, Stammers, urged people using social networking sites to continue re-tweeting appeals for Megan to return safely. Last Friday, the ‘couple’ were arrested in France while they were strolling hand-in-hand on a busy street. There is in Megan-Forrest love saga, some valuable lessons for all parents and schools.

•Education Review is published weekly . Editor’s email: abanobichika@yahoo.co.uk Phone Number: 08034041645

DAILY SUN Tuesday, October 2, 2012

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SOUTH-SOUTH Report PETER AGBA KALU

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he National Association of Seadogs Pyrates Confraternity aims is to fight all social ills. So, as a result, when they took up the fight against giving out part of Nigeria unconstitutionally to Cameroon you discover that they are in perfect order because this is a cause that must be supported by every reasonable Nigerian.

It will be recalled that former President Olusegun Obasanjo and President Paul Biya of Cameroon signed the Green Tree Agreement.

However, the clause not to “force Nigerian nationals living in the Bakassi Peninsula to leave the zone” has been ignored.

After much persuasion, the Zonal Capon -Aba Chapter- Mr. Samuel Nguma, bared his mind on the contentious issues in this interview withwith Daily Sun. Sir, what is this protest all about and what is the interest of your association?

I am surprised that you are asking this kind of question. What affects any part of Nigeria, affects us and what concerns one single Nigerian citizen, should concern us all. The National Association of Seadogs wishes to use the opportunity of this nationwide protest to express its strong displeasure over the Federal Government’s inability to appeal against the judgment of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) of October 10, 2002, which ceded the oil-rich Bakassi Peninsula to the Republic of Cameroon.

Under the international charter, there is a window for appeal against any judgment by the affected country within ten years from the date the judgment is delivered if there are fresh facts which were not available as at the time judgment was entered into.

It is unacceptable that the government of Nigeria under President Olusegun Obasanjo had after the ICJ ruling willingly surrendered the sovereignty of the country to the Cameroon and had entered into a Green Tree Agreement in 12 June 2006, to abide by the decision of the country. The Government of Nigeria cannot, and should not, remain inured to the pains of the Bakassi people.

What baffled Nigerians then and still confounds them today is the ease with which the Federal Government ceded a part of its territory to another nation, the same territory over which it nearly went to war, between 1981 and 1996. It must be stated for the records that the Anglo-German Treaty of 1913 on which Cameroon hinged it pleadings at the ICJ, not withstanding, it is a known historical fact that the Bakassi Peninsula and its inhabitants have always been part of the old Calabar Kingdom prior to the colonial creation of Nigeria in 1914.

Cameroon had never placed great premium on this territory until its oilbearing potentials were discovered.

As a matter of fact, let me make one point very clear, the whole issue of the Bakassi Peninsula for the National Association of Seadogs is not necessarily about what lies below the surface and the riches of the strip, but on the value which Nigeria as a country should place on her citizens.

On the strength of the fact that the Federal Government of Nigeria has signed an agreement to abide by the out come of the Hague agreement and already taken major steps towards actualizing this.

What next do you expect them to do?

Nigeria must not hand over Bakassi to Cameroon -Seadogs Capon

•Nguma The Attorney General of the Federation should lodge an appeal with the International Court of Justice at The Hague, Netherlands since we are still within the statute of limitation of the exercise of this right and with the sole aim of restoring the Bakassi Peninsula to the Status Quo ante prior to the said judgment ceding jurisdiction to Cameroon.

We also demand for full provision of accommodation to the displaced people of Bakassi in the New Bakassi and adjoining areas and communities.

Funds should also immediately be released and duly monitored by all relevant stakeholders to ensure effective and efficient utilizations in meeting the earlier planned number of buildings for the returnees.

We also think it right that the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs should as a matter of urgency hand-over the recently constructed 2-bedroom apartments at Ekpri Obutong to formally and duly documented returnees as part of efforts towards ameliorating their chaotic accommodation difficulties.

Then most importantly, immediate resolution of all issues pertaining to compensation for acquired land to the owners of the areas carved out of Akpabuyo Local Government Area for the Bakassi returnees in order to enhance the integration of the people into their new abode.

There should also be immediate legislation and enactments by the National Assembly on the disputes regarding ward delineation between INEC, the Cross River State Government and the Cross River State House of Assembly.

This should be followed with the immediate completion of the Skills acquisition Centre at Ikot Nakanda in Akpabuyo Local Government Area being handled by the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs in order to offer skills to the displaced youths in tandem with youths of the Niger Delta region.

How will the world see Nigeria if we renege ?

You should know that the ICJ judg-

ment ceding Bakassi to Cameroon came to Nigerians as a rude shock and if you will recall, in the spur of the moment, occasioned by anger expressed by Nigerians, the government immediately rejected the verdict.

However, four years later, it made a remarkable volte-face by signing an agreement on June 12, 2006 in New York, dubbed the Green Tree Agreement (GTA), to formally hand over the disputed Bakassi Peninsula to Cameroon in line with the ICJ ruling.

This was done in the presence of Mr. Kofi Ata Annan, then SecretaryGeneral of the United Nations, and representatives of the governments of the United States of America, France, Germany and United Kingdom.

President Olusegun Obasanjo signed for Nigeria and President Paul Biya for Cameroon.

It is a well known diplomatic fact that the International Court of Justice in attending to its judgments has limited, if not zero, capacity at facilitating the enforcement of its rulings partly because of the sovereignty of the parties coming before it. This leaves enforcement and compliance of any judgment pronounced by it at the prerogative of the nations in dispute.

Several countries have been known to flout these judgments to the extent that it touches on their territorial integrity. So I don’t see why Nigeria should be an exception or out of the way the world will feel cede out our sovereignty to Cameroun. We should be more concerned about how our brothers and sisters in Bakassi should feel, since they are going to feel deeply betrayed and let down by you and me.

While the National Association of Seadogs is not asking the Federal Government of Nigeria to act irresponsibly by reneging on its agreement to hand over Bakassi, we strongly urge the government to do the needful, by seeking a review of the ICJ ruling, based on fresh facts now coming to fore. Moreover, the people of Bakassi themselves who have suddenly become alienated from a land they had historically occupied and

owned need to be consulted on where they would choose to belong: Cameroon, Nigeria or simply remain as Bakassians.

It is sad to note that the AttorneyGeneral of the Federation, AGF, and Minister of Justice, Mr. Mohammed Adoke, without as much as batting an eyelid, has already accepted defeat and is worried more over the embarrassment the nation may face in reviewing this judgment rather than the plight of the indigenous people of Bakassi who have become refugees in their own country. According to him, “What most people are putting forward as reasons for us to go back to the ICJ are not tenable”. Our stand is that it’s not his call. Let the ICJ decide that.

He should note that Article 61 of the Statute of The ICJ, states that: “An application for revision of a judgment may be made only when it is based upon the discovery of some facts of such a nature as to be a decisive factor, which fact was, when the judgment was given, unknown to the Court and also to the party claiming revision, always provided that such ignorance was not due to negligence.”

It goes further to state that: “The application for revision must be made at latest within six months of the discovery of the new fact”.

This part is left for us to determine when we discovered our fresh facts!

The article states that, “No application for revision may be made after the lapse of ten years from the date of the judgment.” This window closes in few days time and we cannot fold our hands and watch this opportunity slip through. That is why The National Association of Seadogs-Pyrates’ Confraternity embark on a peaceful

advocacy and awareness march in some cities across the world to draw attention to the plight of the indigenous people of Bakassi, hoping that the government will be persuaded to take action.

Unlike the AGF, most Nigerians including his constituency, the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, believe that Nigeria has strong grounds on which a review of the ICJ ruling can be sought. Media reports have pointed to the fact that the nation has a strong case with the unearthing of fresh documents which according to former Information Minister, Walter Ofonagoro, speaking with the Vanguard Newspapers, pointed out that there exists an 1822 treaty which placed the ownership of Bakassi with the chiefs of old Calabar kingdom.

Also worth investigating is the Southern Cameroon gazette, Volume 7 no.14, which contrary to allegations that the people of Bakassi voted in a February 11, 1961 plebiscite to join Cameroon, shows that voting did not take place in the Peninsula. This brings to question the exact location of the 21 polling stations alleged to have been in Bakassi for the plebiscite. The said gazette indicated that those that were asked to decide where they wanted to belong were the Mamfe, Bamenda, Kumba and Victoria communities.

Outside the issue of grounds of review, is the fact that both countries, Nigeria and Cameroon, have not even kept faith with the Green-Tree Agreement. We note with dismay the neglect, abandonment and inexplicable maltreatment of the indigenous people of Bakassi after ceding their land to Cameroon.

Navy fight against oil theft in N’Delta From TONY JOHN, Port Harcourt

R

ecently, the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Pathfinder, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, arrested 15 expatriates on board a vessel, MT ST Vanessa, for loitering on Nigeria’s waterways for about two weeks without a definite mission.

They were arrested at a position 45 nautical miles off Akassa area in Bayelsa State. The vessel is a motor tanker registered in Belguim, belonging to Sea Tanker Shipping SAS of Parc Innolin-T Rue Du Golf 337000 Merinac, France.

Since the interception of the vessel on June 19, 2012, by NNS Zaria, it was heralded by controversy with interest from higher authorities. Unfortunately Navy was accused of siphoning the products, which could not be ascertained by confirmed. Even, it was reliably gathered that on Friday, September 21, when the suspects were paraded, and released to the Nigerian Police Force at NNS Pathfinder and charged to court, several calls were still coming from many quarters concerning the vessel and expatriates.

The 15 suspects onboard MT ST Vanessa were nine Filipinos and six Romanians. The Filipinos were Salmayor Ariel Papelera, Rueda Edgar Molino, Sara Romiro, Parot Billy Ray,

Matangluihan Rexnor Caguicla, Gumban Reynold Jayme, Diamonte Hervin Cornel, Slavador Hisona and Morgo Reynaldo Baldemore.

Names of the Romanians were Dolniceanu Danut Laurentiu, Cojocaru Ciprian Viorel, Tahontu Florentin, Popa Andrei, Baicu Eduard Daniel and Ovanezian Stefan.

While handing over the suspects and vessel in Port Harcourt and Bonny to the Police, the commanding officer, NNS Pathfinder, Commodore Oyetunji Fadeyi, said the vessel was arrested for loitering between June 6 and 19, this year, around the area where it was eventually impounded.

He said attempts by NNS Zaria to interrogate MT ST Vanessa were resisted, as the vessel failed to respond, but rather altered the course to escape arrest.

“In a bid to enforce arrest, NNS Zaria had to employ the use of minimal force on MT ST Vanessa. In this regard, several shots were fired across the bow of the vessel to stop her from escaping. MT ST Vanessa was eventually arrested and handed over to FOB Bonny for investigation into her suspicious activities around Akassa area, which is within Nigeria’s Exclusive Economic Zone.”

Fadeyi said investigation revealed

Continued on page 44

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DAILY SUN Tuesday, October 2, 2012

SOUTH-SOUTH Report S

he hasn’t stayed very long in the political circles but the current Chairman of Okobo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Princess Felicia Asuquo, appears to have risen faster than those who had been there, even at the advent of the current democratic dispensation. In this interview with JOE EFFIONG in Uyo, Asuquo reveals what makes her different.

Who’s Princess Felicia Asuquo?

Princess Felicia Asuquo is a woman from a very humble background, who hails from Otioro in Okobo LGA. She is a mother.

How many children do you have?

Biologically, I have two children but by benevolence of God, many.

It is like you don’t even know how many you have again?

So many; I happen to be the chairman of Okobo LGA., by God’s grace the first female chairman, I have been a transitional chairman before, I have been a state officer of the Peoples Democratic Party, the women leader, representing Eket; Eket Senatorial District, which I did successfully before my appointment as a caretaker or transitional chairman, which I transited to executive chairman. I have a touch of the public service; I had been a police officer for 26 years before I resigned to be a full time politician because I love to contribute my quota politically, democratically. So, I resigned in 2006, to join politics. And I have been to primary school in my village, secondary school in Uyo, University of Calabar. Presently I’m a law undergrad, So that is Felicia Asuquo.

When you said you have been in the police force for 26 years and then you resigned and joined politics, what actually motivated you to resign?

I am from a political background, even though I was in the police force.

Luckily I was posted to the area they call CIP, when they created, we were the pioneers and we were dealing with politicians. In my 26 years I think I have spent more than 15 years in that department. When I am transferred I will go back because I appreciated what the politicians were trying to do.

My interest arose to be part of that after putting in my own in the police, in the security, so I have that desire and I’m a grass rooter. I feel for my people. I said let me come back and try my best so I came in and with God on my side I am here as the chairman.

How has it been, what have been your challenges, the challenges of becoming a woman politician in Nigeria? They say it is difficult; have you experienced such difficulty?

Well, for you, you have heard my background. I was a police officer; same challenges, so for me, politics is part of those challenges. What a man is feeling, I as a woman feel it too. You see the problem we have, the women like to run away that oh because I’m a woman… I don’t see myself as a weaker sex so I won’t say I have a special challenge as a woman. My people appreciate me. It is just like computer, what you put in is what you take out, ‘garbage in garbage out’. I came into Okobo, I have a wonderful people who are in Okobo. They appreciate who I am so as a woman I do not have any extra challenges because I have environment who appreciates me.

But nationally, some of the women cannot handle because you men, you like to intimidate us. You tell us we belong to the kitchen. But at the same time why I appreciate all of you is because whatever and whoever you people are is for us. The achievement of the men is for the women. Because like you have seen, Nigerian women are strong women; we are the home

If I live my life again, I’ll still be a police woman –Council boss managers, that’s why if we cannot do anything in Akwa Ibom is to put in our best, especially before women so that the men can open wider doors for other women because we can do it.

Don’t doubt it when we say we can do it better, after managing the home with even the little the men give to us, we can equally expand the scope. Like in this office, we can manage, we can feel, we can care… not that you people (men) don’t care. But naturally women look inward, inside the family, they feel, they go closer, like I’m here, I’m very close to my people.

This issue of 35% which has been on card for some time now, do you subscribe to it?

Yes, but don’t even think that 35 percent is enough; we need more. If you take a look at the population of this country, we the women are more than 50 percent of the voters. But I think we have improved. We now have four female local government chairmen.

But at the national level, our presence is not there. I will like to urge our women from this part of the country, especially from our state. I will appeal to them to strive to come forward and contribute their quota to national development. That is where their potentialities would be noticed and utilized.

•Prince Felicia People are talking about 2015 gubernatorial race; as a person from Eket Senatorial District, what is your view on zoning?

Let the best material win; but I will wait for the party to take a decision on that. Let the time come; it is still too

early to start speculating on that. When the time comes, the party would decide. I will support whoever the party (PDP) chooses. Whoever is not chosen by my party, even if that person is a woman, and from another political party, I won’t support her.

As a former police officer, what is your view on the ongoing debate about stare police?

I will say no to state police. I have been there and I know what is there.

There are a lot of things that being in the police force has taught me.

Transfer to another state is punishment may be a form of punishment in the police. But going to another state can also expose one the life outside their own state of origin. My fear is the usage of the police. People will not see anything good in that police force because it would be seen as an instrument in the hand of the governor. It is better we still remain as we are. Let us continue to have federal police. It is better than having the state police because nobody will believe that they are fair in their dealings with the people.

If you were to rewind your life, what would you like to do that you have not been able to do or you think you may never have an opportunity to do?

First, I would like to be a woman; second I will like to be a police officer and third, I will like to be a politician and serve the people.

That means that I have no regrets in life. What I cannot achieve now, I leave it to god; he will lead me in future. Being a policewoman has taught me a lot of things in life. It has made me bold. I am what and who I am today because of the fact that I joined the police. It is one of the best things to have happened to me.

C’River lawmaker empowers community From JUDEX OKORO, Calabar

R

ecently, Hon. John Gual Lebo, representing Abi State Constituency, was on constituency tour of the council wards in his constituency. During the tour, the lawmakerrolled off the first part of his four-year empowering programme for the community by handing in the sum of N3.2 million out of estimated N15 million for community projects. After the tour he spoke to newsmen.

Excerpts: You have just concluded your first constituency tour and in the process, you launched some empowerment community projects. Why the empowerment scheme?

Yes, I decided to embark on the tour to formally thank my constituents for the support so far. During the tour, I met with party faithful, traditional rulers, youths, women and opinion leaders across all council wards in the area. Besides, it is part of my campaign promise to the electorate that I will be paying constituency allowance to 10 council wards in Abi state constituency where I represent at the House of Assembly.

So, it’s an obligation and had to put up a structure to ensure the payment of the allowance. For the 4-year period, I have budgeted about N15M for constituency projects. So, it’s an obligation

•Gaul and had to put up a structure to ensure the payment of the allowance. Each of the wards is entitled to N320, 000 amounting to N3.2m including entertainment. The idea is to ensure that my constituents have a feel of my stay at the legislature.

Here, the communities will identify the projects they want within the amount, and with their consent we set up a constituency management committee to ensure that the money is not seen as Christmas gift. I believe they

have some basic needs. The committee is made up representatives of stakeholders including town councils, development association, traditional rulers, political party, youths and women groups.

Some are using theirs to buy desks for primary schools, for scholarships, loan facility to market women, to buy drugs for their community pharmacy shop and buy hospital beds and these are before me. I will advise them accordingly.

It is not an interest generating money. They have the discretion to choose what they want and who to manage it; we are expecting them to key into MDGs progrmme while I provide the scheme.

I am also considering commercial agriculture project that require counterpart fund of about N3000 per farmer and if they pay it will allow farmers to benefit from that grant; I have set up a template by also introducing community social development programme which allows community to pay counterpart and benefit from projects, identified small scale business enterprise for skill acquisition centres. They can use these templates to help them set up their schemes by investing in health facilities, in primary schools, award scholarships and buy books for their children. So, we are trying to build their confidence in their representative.

The benefit of all these is to give

Navy’s fight against oil theft Continued from page 43 that the last port of call of the vessel was Lome, Togo. And since its arrival in Nigerian waters, the vessel was observed to be loitering around Akassa Brass for about two weeks without a clear and specific mission before its arrest.

“In addition, the captain claimed that he was directed by the owner of the vessel to stay around Akassa and wait for further directives. Meanwhile

Akassa area is known to be notorious for crude oil theft and other economic sabotage. MT ST Vanessa also stated during investigation that she chose to alter course and steer seaward because she thought she was under attack by pirates.”

The Naval officer faulted the claim made by the captain, saying: “However, it is pertinent to state that this excuse is not tenable as NNS Zaria identified herself clearly as a Nigerian

Navy Ship on patrol via radio communication. Additionally, the encounter happened during daytime with good visibility, which makes positive identification possible and easier.”

Commodore Fadeyi assured that Navy would not be deterred in carrying out its constitutional responsibility of protecting the nation’s territorial waterways.

Receiving the suspects and vessel on behalf the Inspector General of Police

them a sense of belonging and enable them plan ahead. In the cause of this, they can now do community budget and banking to be able to determine and know what they are expecting next year. So, they must identify what to do with the money.

In the past, some lawmakers had started projects as this and ended up abandoning it due to lack of funds or commitment. How do you intend to fund these community projects?

Certainly, it might not have worked in some places for obvious reasons.

But I can assure you that if you have a sense of responsibility, you must work with sense of probity. So, since I know I have some project or programmes ahead of me, I have to work within my means. Besides, I am a public officer and I earn some allowances. So, what I do is that every year I set aside some amount of money monthly from what I earn. So, I knew that every year I will pull out N3.5m from what I earn. So, I have done it successfully in the last one year.

For others, I try to reduce my personal expenditure and make some savings through my banker and after every 6-month I review it to see what I have and begin to make amends. So, I plan my programme based on that.

Besides, before I came into office I had an idea of how much I will earn and I knew that I will be able to pay constituency without having to stretch my neck so hard. and Rivers State Police Command, the Deputy Commissioner of Police incharge of State Criminal Investigation Department(SCID)Mr. Sam Okaula, commend the Navy for its unrelenting fight against illegal oil bunkering in the region. He assured that the law would take its course on the suspects.

Similarly, another 16 suspects arrested for alleged oil theft at different places by Navy, were paraded and released to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission(EFCC) for further investigation and prosecution.

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

SUNSummit

DAILY SUN

amodu200910@yahoo.com Tel: 08059306448

45

TAIWO AMODU

Reconciliation in PDP: How far can Tukur go?

From TAIWO AMODU, Abuja

O

n his formal assumption of office as national chairman of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP), former governor of old Gongola State, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, unveiled his mission to bring back aggrieved members of the party, who either defected to other political parties or took a dignified distance from Wadata Plaza.

Tagged the 3Rs, his agenda of reconciliation, re-building and reforming the party was welcomed with mixed feelings by party faithful. Their cynicisms towards Tukur’s mission was not misplaced, as there was the Reconciliation Committee, led by former vicepresident, Dr. Alex Ekwueme, whose report submitted to the Prince Vincent Ogbulafor-led PDP National Working Committee, (NWC) was consigned to the dust bin.

Before the present PDP NWC led by Tukur assumed office, President Goodluck Jonathan and other eminent leaders of the party had identified internal dissension as responsible for the defeats the party suffered in some states during the last general elections.

Tukur, at various party gatherings had raised the alarm that the PDP would continue to experience depletion in its ranks unless something urgent was done to restore amity in the party.

While inaugurating an eight –man committee, led by Chief Graham Douglas, to reconcile members of the party in Kano State, the PDP national chairman warned that if members of the party failed to resolve their differences in its state chapters across the country, it would lose to onslaught of the opposition parties in 2015, as he noted that the party lost the governorship election in Edo State because of the division within its ranks.

“It is necessary to reconcile individual members of the party and factions, for us to have a united party, and reduce disagreement. Not only in Kano, in every state in the country, you find people who felt aggrieved and left our party.

“So, reconciliation is paramount and that’s why we want to use elders, who will look at issues, dispassionately. We want to continue winning and we can only do that, if we build understanding. We have set up this Committee to talk to our people and identify cause(s) of the crises.’’

Similar to the trouble shooting task given the Graham Douglas led Committee for Kano State, former

•Party chieftains identify governors, ‘party leaders’ as obstacles

Bamanga Tukur national vice-chairman, south-west of the party, Alhaji Shuaib Oyedokun was saddled with the responsibility of appeasing party members in Benue State. Oyedokun Committee has since submitted its report.

Penultimate Wednesday, at the end of its weekly NWC meeting, Tukur issued a statement directing former party chieftains who left PDP but willing to return to do so, within thirty days. He also advised enthusiastic members willing to return but being impeded by state or zonal executives to lodge formal complaints at the party national secretariat.

But how far can he go and what are the encumbrances?

Daily Sun identified factors responsible for the crises and flight

of camaraderie that used to exist among PDP stalwarts.

Mutual inclusivity of party and government In states controlled by the PDP, incumbent governors see the party secretariat as an appendage of government house. Normatively, governors are accountable to state executives of the party, who are expected to put the former on their toes and ensure that they implement party manifestoes. It is enshrined in the mantra of party supremacy.

The reverse is the case in PDP; the governors knowing fully well that their second term ticket is guaranteed once they can appropriate the party secretariat, either muscle party officials in their respective states, or ensure that their stooges win state congresses.

Ahead of party governorship primaries, aspiring chieftains willing to contest for ticket with sitting governors are labeled as dissidents and frustrated out of the party.

At the heart of the crisis in Oyo state chapter of the party was the struggle for the control of the party structure, ahead of 2011 election, between former governor, AlaoAkala and his predecessor, Senator Rasheed Ladoja, and former Senate Majority Leader, Senator Teslim Folarin.

Lack of internal democracy Where the incumbent succeeded in bullying their opponents, as in the case of Dr. Segun Agagu and Adamu Muazu in Ondo and Bauchi states respectively, such aggrieved and determined aspirants, like Dr.

Segun Mimmiko and Mallam Isa Yuguda ran to opposition parties to pick governorship tickets and ultimately defeated PDP. Those who could not achieve their dream in the new parties continue to lick their wounds.

How the PDP national chairman intends to ensure that the governors who have appropriated party structures in their respective states allow the ‘dissidents’ to be shielded under the same platform as the bullying governors remains a riddle.

Plateau State Governor, Jonah Jang spoke the minds of his colleagues recently when he led a delegation of PDP members from his state, on a courtesy visit to the party national secretariat.

Jonah Jang cautioned the PDP NWC to refrain from seeking reconciliation with those who left the party to seek tickets for elections in other political parties.

He declared emphatically that only those who felt genuinely aggrieved and left the party should be allowed to return. ‘’I wish to raise some issues of interest to the party. Party membership: our party’s constitution has very elaborate provisions for membership recruitment, registration and documentation; and of course for the responsibility of members.

Even former members who defected from the party know the provisions for rejoining the party interestingly, all of these steps start at the ward level.

We are however persuaded that just as Mr. President had reasons to counsel those who think parties are mere platforms for seeking for elections into public offices, and often jump from one party to another, those that left the PDP to contest elections against the party should remain in those parties and provide constructive opposition and multiparty platforms.

This is more beneficial for our type of liberal democracy. This they should do rather than put pressure at the top of our party to have them return to the party.

Relating to the issue of membership, is the commendable efforts of the national chairman towards reconciliation and for harmony in the party.

But Mr. Chairman would know that only members of the party, who still identify with the party and who are aggrieved because of some actions or inactions of the leadership, can seek to be reconciled. It may not be appropriate to discuss reconciliation with people who are jumping from one party to another seeking only for election plat-

Turn to page 46

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DAILY SUN

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

SUNSummit From TAIWO AMODU, Abuja

I

sa Umar Gusau is Special Adviser on Media and Communications to Governor Kashim Shettima of Borno State.

In an interactive session with newsmen in Abuja, he explains why his boss has been able to make appreciable impact in the lives of the citizens of Borno State, despite unnerving security challenges.

Excerpts: Let’s start by asking you this; what is your boss, Governor Shettima, doing regarding the persistent security situation in Borno State?

I would crave your indulgence not to speak much on this matter so that I do not contradict an appeal made by my boss last month.

You may want to recall that in a Sallah message after the Ramadan, Governor Kashim Shettima had pleaded with the media not to publish efforts being made concerning the need for a peaceful resolution of the crises through dialogue.

The governor has been consistent on the call for dialogue since 2011when he was elected, even before his inauguration. He pioneered that call, really.

What I can tell you is that Governor Shettima regards the restoration of peace and security in Borno State as his number one priority and he is working to achieve that.

How good is Borno, under Governor Shettima, how has his experience as an accomplished banker helped the State?

Residents and indeed those who have visited Borno in the last one year, especially those closely monitoring trend of governance appreciate changes going not only on infrastructure but importantly on the welfare of people. Let me summarily add that from my own review, Governor Shettima adopts seven wise principles, naturally, I suppose, which summarize his style of governance that is already producing results.

First, Kashim Shettima is a receptive and highly consultative governor who respects professionalism and sense of responsibility; he is not ‘Mr. know everything,’ he loves to listen to ideas and opinions of those responsible for particular subjects, he also acknowledges and strongly commends people with good ideas

Governor Shettima is running an inclusive government – Gusau, media aide

Gov. Kashim Shettima while he sometimes takes immediate action where he is satisfied with the ideas.

As you know, many leaders don’t have the patience of listening to those working under them, they mostly give instructions only.

Look, you do not win Shettima’s heart with sycophancy; he is more attracted to brainpower than anything. Even in cases where he has full knowledge of a subject, he would still ask the opinion of the person directly associated with the

subject whether a commissioner, special adviser, permanent secretary, special assistants, directors or whoever maybe to have varied views.

Ability to hear out subordinates is very important in leadership.

Some other leaders would probably be arrogant to do that especially when, as it is, the governor is as smart as the smartest of his appointees.

Secondly, he is scientific in making policies, programmes and projects. He relies so much on research.

For instance, when Borno State recorded poor result in WAEC exams in 2011, the year he came in, he set up a silent committee that went round all the secondary schools to do some investigation including physical headcount of pupils and teachers as well as number of class rooms, examine learning atmosphere, curriculum, etc. It was discovered that the three senatorial zones had varied problems; in the central and northern Borno in particular, there were empty class rooms and teachers without pupils, in the southern part, there were pupils without class rooms and adequate teachers but generally, there was lack of task force to supervise teaching and learning, there were problems of improper feeding.

I remember a case he asked a principal how much she was getting for feeding of pupils per month from government and after some arithmetic, it was clear that less than four naira was being budgeted for a student per meal and that money couldn’t buy a sachet of pure water.

How can a student learn under such a situation?

So, there is a high powered feeding committee with highly respected people, designated to each of the three zones, there is a quality assurance inspectorate taskforce to monitor educational activities made of effective and efficient educationists, and at the moment, class rooms are being built so that there wouldn’t be more than 40 pupils in a secondary school class, the culture of night studies is being restored.

In summary, massive projects are going on in Government College, Maiduguri, Government Girls College, Yerwa and many others spread across the state.

So, Governor Shettima is laying a fresh and solid foundation of education which is bedrock of any society that seeks to progress.

He is scientific on different sectors. On industry for instance, Government resuscitates collapsed industries and owners pay back with products of fixed industries and employ an agreed number of people.

In the area of poverty alleviation, for instance I will give just one example, Governor Shettima initiated a skills acquisition programme with different centres where youths are trained on how to make bricks, roofing tiles and interlocks with all raw materials sourced from suppliers in the state while the youths get paid. Now many of these youths make bricks, build classrooms with the bricks, roof the class rooms with the sheets they also made interlock surroundings with the interlocks they made; look at the chain!

What happens here, is that youths are trained and empower d, suppliers of raw materials are patronized, class rooms are built, learning is made more conducive and education is enhanced.

The Governor has been able to redirect everyone’s psychology back to agriculture; he breaths agriculture, talks agriculture, walks agriculture, sleep agriculture and in fact, he lives agriculture. So, villagers now know that the only thing that attracts the governor is farming.

So, everyone wants to display farm produce anytime the governor is passing through local government areas, the governor has set up an agricultural transformation team with experts fully in charge, there is functional interplay between the state government and the Chad Basin Development Authority which has led to thousands of bags of wheat and onions, rice has been built to cultivate over 100 thousand hectares of land.

Borno is getting back on track.

The third principle of the governor is that he runs an open and government, making Borno the hub of many capable individuals and institutions within and outside Nigeria.

He in search of intelligent hands, regardless of where they come from.

In Abuja, he goes to meet heads of key federal establishments to win them to have focus on helping Borno.

‘Party chieftains identify governors, ‘party leaders’ as obstacles’ Continued from page 45 forms.’’

Intrusive party leaders Following the concern of late President Umar Yar’Adua to bring back aggrieved members into the party, the Prince Vincent Ogbulafor led NWC had constituted an 11man reconciliation committee, with former Vice-President, Dr Alex Ekwueme as chairman.

Other members of the Committee, were Mallam Adamu Ciroma; former deputy national chairman Bode George, Shuaib Oyedokun, Fidelis Tapgun, Ime Udum, Abubakar Magaji and Jerry Gana.

Part of the recommendations in the Dr. Alex Ekwueme report was

that the appellation of leader accorded certain chieftains of the party be discarded, as there was no provision for it in the PDP constitution.

The committee noted that the position was intrusive, as it allowed party chieftains designated as such to compete with state and zonal chairmen of the party, statutorily recognized by the party constitution.

Daily Sun findings revealed that those already accorded such recognition would not let go such privilege.

Speaking with Daily Sun, one of the aspirants for the position of national chairman of the party, who lost out to Bamanga Tukur told Daily Sun in confidence that it

would be difficult for the party national chairman to genuinely address the issue of those the former aspirant called ‘’cantankerous party leaders as they were the one who imposed Tukur on the party ; you know there was no election at Eagles Square. We were arm-twisted to withdraw from the race by these so-called leaders working in league with President Jonathan. So, where will he [Tukur] muster the courage to ask them to step aside and respect party constitution.’’?

Speaking further, he submitted that the on going reconciliation would achieve better result if done silently, as there was no need for the media attention being given to it.

Dr. Alex Ekwueme

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

DAILY SUN

Children’s wishes on independence From DIANE EZEH and CHINAZA ONOH, Abuja

Police should kill Boko Haram – Adeyanju Victor

I

am eight years old. Independence Day is the day Nigeria was born, that is, after 25 years Nigeria was released from slavery and oppression. I want Nigeria to celebrate because it is not easy to be free from slavery.

Nigeria is going to be 52 years. What I want Nigeria to do for me on this October 1, is to tell the police to kill all Boko Haram people and take them away from our country.

Oriela

I

Let govt tackle Lokoja flood – Emmanuel Ejeh

am eight years old. I know about Independence Day. Nigeria got her independence on October 1, 1960 when the British people stopped their colonisation. Nigeria is 52 years today and I want it to be celebrated because if we celebrate it, we will move to the next level.

We will be encouraged to develop more and make our country better. I want Nigeria to provide good roads, especially, in Lokoja where the road is bad and flooded. All around Nigeria, the roads are bad and flood is everywhere.

Adeyanju

People should stop killing, lying – Oriela

the streets, who are homeless and give provisions to the poor so that there will be no poor people living on the streets.

Security, roads, caring for the poor important – Victor Onoja

I am nine years old. Independence Day is the day Nigeria got her independence, that is on October 1, 1960. That was when Nigeria’s brave fathers fought for her to come out of captivity and slavery from the British colonialists. I want us to celebrate it so that we can remember our past leaders. It is not easy to be 52 years. I want Nigerians to help and make this country a better place by helping the poor masses. I want them to improve on road construction and security so that people will stop dying.

Onoh

I don’t want Boko Haram to kill people – Subair Queen Anny

I am nine years old and I love Nigeria.

Nigeria got her independence on October 1, 1960 and is going to be 52 years. I want it to be celebrated but I do not want Boko Haram to come and kill people. I want Nigerians to know that God Almighty is watching everything we are doing and I want our leaders to love and take care of us and our parents so that we will become great future leaders.

Let’s abide by the National Pledge – Chinyere Onoh

Nigeria’s independence was the time Nigerians were allowed by colonial masters (British) to rule am nine years old. themselves. This took place Independence is all on October 1, 1960. I will celeabout providing everybrate this year’s independence by thing on your own, that joining my school in march past, means paying your school fees, Ejeh visiting the museum to have a look at buying your food, and so on. I think the colonial craft on display. I will watch that Independence Day is the day Nigeria and listen to the Nigerian documentaries on started doing their things by themselves, the past rulers and their administrators and I when they were freed from the British peo- will be taken out by my parents to the ple, who were beating and torturing them. amusement park for fun and enjoyment.

Nigeria got her independence on October 1, I want Nigerians, especially the leaders, to 1960 and it is celebrated every year. reflect on the attitude and achievements of It is another October 1 today and I want our past leaders; Nnamdi Azikiwe, Tafawa Nigeria to celebrate it because we deserve it. Balewa, Obafemi Awolowo, etc. to ensure I want Nigerians to stop lying. There are lots that the efforts of these past leaders are not in of people that like lying and I want them to vain. I also want Nigerians to reflect on the stop lying and give their lives to Christ. For national anthem and pledge and abide by it instance, in the North, if they are living in a and engage more on things that will unite us person’s house, they will kill the person and as one strong nation. when the police come to ask what happened, they would say they did not know. I We need to talk peace, unity also want them to secure the whole nation.

Chiamaka

I

Let’s take care of beggars –Chiamaka Precious Obiekwe

Anny

I am nine years old. Independence day is the day Nigeria celebrates her freedom from Europeans. I want Nigerians to celebrate on October 1 because Nigeria has done so many things since 1960. They have to give thanks to God for that through celebration. I want Nigeria to protect everybody and make houses for those lepers and beggars on

– Folashade Adebabo

I am nine years old and I know what Nigeria’s independence means. It was the time Nigerians got free from the hands of the white men to rule themselves and this took place on October 1, 1960. I will celebrate it by going to parks and gardens for enjoyment and share the happiness with my friends. I want Nigerians on this day to come together and talk about peace, love and unite together as one.

Adebabo

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DAILY SUN

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

Nigeria at 52: The future is here – Jonathan •Let’s continue to strengthen the bond of unity that holds us together AN ADDRESS BY HIS EXCELLENCY, PRESIDENT GOODLUCK EBELE JONATHAN, GCFR, ON THE OCCASION OF THE INDEPENDENCE DAY ANNIVERSARY ON MONDAY, 1ST OCTOBER, 2012 1.

Beloved countrymen and women, on this day, fifty-two years ago, our founding fathers brought joy and hope to the hearts of our people when they won independence for our great country.

Nigeria made a clean break with more than six decades of colonial rule, and emerged as a truly independent nation.

That turning point was a new beginning for our nation.

2. Those who witnessed the lowering of the Union Jack and the emergence of the Green White Green flag continue to relish the memory, because that ceremony was not just about the destiny of a nation, but the future of a people.

3. That future is here; we are the inheritors of a great legacy that goes even much farther into the past.

4. The worthy patriots who made this possible were young men and women in their twenties and thirties. They worked together to restore dignity and honour to the Nigerian people. Their resolve united a multicultural and multilingual nation of diverse peoples, with more than 250 distinct languages and ethnic groups.

5. In 1960, our diversity became a source of strength, and the new leaders resolved to carry the flag of independence for the benefit of future generations. They had their differences, but they placed a greater premium on the need to come together to build a new nation.

6. It is that resolve, and that glorious moment that we celebrate today. We also celebrate the patriotism of our heroes past: Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Sir Ahmadu Bello, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Sir Michael Okpara, Chief Anthony Enahoro, Herbert Macaulay, and several others who made the case for our independence.

7. We remember as always, their contributions to the making of the Nigerian nation, and the efforts of their successors since 1960. We also celebrate the unfailing optimism and resilience of Nigerians who remain proud of our national identity.

8. On this special day, I call on every Nigerian to remain steadfast, because our nation is indeed making progress. I call on every Nigerian to rediscover that special spirit that enables us to triumph over every adversity as a people: 9. We weathered the storm of the civil war, we have refused to be broken by sectarian crises; we have remained a strong nation. I bring to you today, a message of renewed hope and faith in the immense possibilities that lie ahead.

10. Fellow citizens, I have an unshaken belief in the future of our great Country.

I consider it a priority and sacred duty to continue to strengthen the bond of unity that holds our nation together and to promote and nourish the creative energies of our people. This is a central objective of our administration’s Transformation Agenda. Nigeria, I assure you, will continue to grow from strength to strength.

11. Since I assumed office as President of our dear country on the 6th of May 2010,

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I have continued to work with our countrymen and women to enhance our nation’s growth and development.

Our vision is encapsulated in the Transformation Agenda. We are working hard and making progress on many fronts. We have cleaned up our electoral process; our elections are now globally acclaimed to be free and fair. Nigeria is now on a higher pedestal regarding elections.

Over the past five years, the global economy has been going through a weak and uncertain recovery. During the same period and particularly in the last two years, the Nigerian economy has done appreciably well despite the global financial crisis. Nigeria’s real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has grown by 7.1 per cent on average.

It is also significant that the GDP growth has been driven largely by the non-oil sector. In pursuance of the main goals of the Transformation Agenda, a number of reforms and initiatives are being pursued in key sectors of the economy with a view to consolidating the gains of the economic growth.

Our country’s power supply situation is improving gradually. We are successfully implementing a well-integrated power sector reform programme which includes institutional arrangements to

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facilitate and strengthen private-sectorled power generation, transmission and distribution.

We have also put in place a cost-reflective tariff structure that reduces the cost of power for a majority of electricity consumers. I am pleased with the feedback from across the country, of improvements in power supply.

We are continuing to improve and stabilize on our crude production volumes; our 12-month gas supply emergency plan, put in place earlier this year, has produced more than the targeted volumes of gas for power generation. A robust Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) has been placed before the National Assembly. Its passage into law will ensure far-reaching reforms, transparency, accountability, increased government revenue and predictability for investors in the Oil and Gas sector.

Several government programmes and projects are creating wealth and millions of job opportunities for our youth and general population. Such programmes include: You-Win, both for the youth and for the women, Public Works, the Local Content Initiative in the Oil and Gas Sector, and the Agricultural Transformation programme.

We have improved on our investment environment; more corporate bodies are

investing in the Nigerian economy. Our Investment Climate Reform Programme has helped to attract over N6.8 trillion local and foreign direct investment commitments.

20. Nigeria has become the preferred destination for investment in Africa. It is ranked first in the top 5 host economies for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in Africa, accounting for over 20 per cent of total FDI flows into the continent. We have streamlined bureaucratic activities at the ports to ensure greater efficiency in the handling of ports and port-related businesses. Specifically, we have drastically reduced the goods clearing period in our ports from about six weeks to about one week and under. We have an ultimate target of 48 hours.

21. We have put in place, a new visa policy that makes it easier for legitimate investors to receive long stay visas. We have achieved a 24-hour timeline for registration of new businesses, leading to the registration of close to 7, 000 companies within the second quarter of 2012.

22. The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has disclosed that, as at July 2012, 249 new members across the country had joined the Association, and that capacity utilization has also

Continued on page 49

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

By SAM NKIRE

N

igeria is fast developing into two distinct ‘tribes’. One tribe consists of those in government while the other is made up of those Nigerians outside government. Talk about Nigeria being a multi-ethnic nation of numerous cohesive tribes is mere glib. Of sincerity, Nigeria is evidently made up of the haves and the have-nots; the ruling class and voting class; the policed government officials and the ordinary unprotected people; the wellfed leader and the hungry unemployed citizen.

One tribe divides the other to rule it. The other hardly complains because given opportunity to rule, it is not likely to do things different or better. So this tribe suffers and smiles while it waits patiently for its turn to be in a position to oppress citizens of his or her former tribe.

Historically, it is a known fact that Nigeria is made up of three major tribes of Hausa, Yoruba and Ibo, as well as over 200 ethnic minorities most of which today, are managing to play major roles in maintaining the political equilibrium of the country. But the two, new, emerging, superficial tribes find accommodation in both the major and minority tribes, even though “tribes and tongues may differ”. The common denominator is nothing but corruption, which is commonly fuelled by avarice and impunity.

In Nigeria government officials including civil servants, officials and members of the legislature, officials of the executive and the judicial arms of government have continually been involved in corrupt practices which prosper only their families, leaving their fellow countrymen impoverished and jobless.

Admittedly, corruption is not only found within the government circles. There have been instances where private sector officials have been found guilty of corruption too.

Quite recently there have been cases of bank executives being involved in financial malpractices bordering on misappropriation of depositor’s money for personal use. Private sector junior workers have also been found to be involved in corrupt practices such as bribery and in some cases, falsification and doctoring of documents. Even within the family, the churches or religious organisations and traditional institutions there are reported cases of greed of various degrees which hurt the micro-economies of the affected units and ultimately affect the macro economy of Nigeria.

The quest to get into government offices is

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The two tribes of Nigeria encouraged by the fact that less than 20% of fraudulent practices are detected and just about the same percentage is punished or brought to book. Serving presidents and governors are untouchables who cannot be punished or prosecuted while in office as a result of an anti-people constitutional clause which gives them immunity from prosecution. While the debate for the removal of the said immunity rages, other government officials such as senators, ministers, permanent secretaries, director- generals and directors, special advisers, special assistants and local government chairmen carry on without fear as though they also have immunity to do wrong. Some senior officials of the judiciary, the military, police, customs and immigration are also part of this malady.

Members of this superior tribe often times embark on unnecessary overseas trips the nation can do without.

They commit government to unnecessary ceremonies, conferences and seminars that waste public fund, which could have been utilized for common good. They privately engage in expensive and wasteful wedding, chieftaincy, burial and all kinds of award ceremonies, during which state fund is deployed. Officials of government, colleagues and subordinates of the celebrating officials attend these private ceremonies using government cars, government drivers, government petrol and claiming out-of-station allowances.

The problem of high cost of government is hereby compounded by such senseless spending as the above.

Nigerian parliamentarians who sit at the National Assembly do not help matters either.

Their pay and allowances remain a mystery and a guess. No one knows what the nation spends on each member of federal or state parliament.

The law-makers have turned themselves into deliberate law-breakers by not making public

their salaries and allowances thereby fuelling the speculation that their pay must be huge. The governors spend state fund at will, without regard to any rule. They are hardly restricted by any guideline. Government money is governor’s money or so it seems in many states.

Ninety nine percent of the governors operate like dictators; obeying only their own rules and listening only to their own voices or those of their family members. What we have in most of the states are totalitarian regimes in the model of Stalin’s Russia of old. The legislature and the judiciary are manipulated and rendered powerless by the state governors. You only see a semblance of democracy at centre or federal level of government. In other words, there seems to be more of the elements of democracy at the federal level than in the states where counterfeited demagogues are in full control.

The disadvantaged tribe wallows in poverty and disgruntlement; some having to steal and in the process kill to survive, both young and old. These days university graduates feel so frustrated they take the hard option of taking their own lives via suicide bombing; something unheard of until recently. The masses are oppressed by those who govern them. The people virtually have no right to anything. No right to employment. No right to housing. No right to medic-care. No right to food and no right to protection. People in government have all the rights and privileges. They are surrounded by security agents. They are quartered in the best houses. They are taken to foreign hospitals when they are ill. They occupy choice positions of authority which position them to steal the country blind. Political office holders as well as government office holders these days seem to have just one thing in mind: self-aggredise-

ment. They carry on as if they are in competition for self-acquisition with each other or with their predecessors in office. Every regime’s officials aim at out-doing officials who served before. Former governors and senators look poorer than the serving ones.

Ministers who served during president Obasanjo’s regime six years ago look poorer than those who served in President Yar’Adua’s regime. It is for this fear of tomorrow that office holders strive to illegally acquire as much as possible from the public till.

Another avenue the oppressive tribe of Nigeria wastes public fund or still from the public treasury is through phony medical trips abroad. Many government officials raise fraudulent medical bills from hospitals abroad to claim medical entitlement when they or, their dependants are not actually ill or unwell. Members of this tribe move around in unnecessarily long convoys, wasting public fund through acquisition of vehicles, and payment of allowances to drivers and personal aides, those include the President, Vice President, Governors, Deputy-Governors, Senate President, Deputy Senate President, the Speakers and Deputy Speakers of the National and State Assemblies, Chief Executives of some government corporations.

The vexed issue of security votes for the president, governors, deputy governors and many others is another way of funding and fuelling corruption in public service. In some states it is said that governors set aside as much as twenty-five percent of the monthly income of the state as security vote which is not accounted for. Even at that, one of the greatest problems facing the nation today is nothing but insecurity. This leaves Nigerians to ponder the judicious use of the huge sums of money the State governors control in the name of security votes. Other public office holders who enjoy security votes include the Senate President, the Speaker of House of Representatives, the Speakers of the state houses of assemblies as well as chief executive officers of big public corporations and agencies. One tribe hunts security votes while the other is hunted by insecurity. What a tragedy!

• SAM NKIRE is author of the book: THE NIGERIAN STORY.

We’re now proactive on security

Continued from page 48 improved. The multiplier effect of this development on our job creation programme cannot be over-emphasized.

In the last two years, we have put in place structures for an upgrade of the country’s health sector, to promote in every respect, the individual citizen’s right to quality, affordable and accessible healthcare.

In this regard, we are devoting resources under the Subsidy Reinvestment Program (SURE-P) to reducing malaria incidents, dramatically reducing maternal and child mortality, and eradicating polio.

Fellow Nigerians, in recent times, we have witnessed serious security challenges in parts of our country. We have taken pro-active measures to check the menace. This has included constant consultation and collaboration with our neighbours and other friendly nations on issues relating to internal and cross border security, and the sharing of information on smuggling and illegal dealing in small arms and light weapons.

Our security agencies are constantly being strengthened and repositioned for greater efficiency. Many Nigerians have acknowledged that there has been a significant decline in the spate of security breaches.

While expressing our condolences to the affected families, let me reiterate the commitment of this Administration to ensure the safety of lives and property of all Nigerians.

Even as we remain focused on the issue

DAILY SUN

•No let up on anti-graft war

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of security, the fight against the scourge of corruption is a top priority of our Administration. We are fighting corruption in all facets of our economy, and we are succeeding. We have put an end to several decades of endemic corruption associated with fertilizer and tractor procurement and distribution. We have exposed decades of scam in the management of pensions and fuel subsidy, and ensured that the culprits are being brought to book.

In its latest report, Transparency International (TI) noted that Nigeria is the second most improved country in the effort to curb corruption.

We will sustain the effort in this direction with an even stronger determination to strengthen the institutions that are statutorily entrusted with the task of ending this scourge.

I have given my commitment of noninterference in the work of the relevant agencies and I am keeping my word.

What we require is the full cooperation of all tiers of government, and the public, especially civil society and the media.

This Administration has also introduced for the first time in Nigeria’s history, a Performance Contract System for all

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Ministers, and other officials of government. This is to further place emphasis on performance, efficiency, and service delivery.

Fellow Nigerians, our determined efforts on several fronts not-withstanding, our country still faces a number of challenges.

Those challenges should not deter us. In the last few weeks, for example, many of our communities have been ravaged by floods, resulting in the loss of lives and property, and the displacement of persons.

I want to reassure all affected Nigerians that I share in their grief, and our Administration is taking steps to address these incidents, in collaboration with the States and Local Governments.

I have received the interim Report of the Presidential team that I set up to assess the flooding situation across the country.

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37. The Federal Government has taken 43. measures to assist the affected States, while considering long term measures to check future reoccurrence.

38. We must continue to work together, confidently and faithfully, to ensure that our country’s potentials are realised to the 44. fullest; that our dreams are translated

into reality; and that our goals are achieved.

Let me reiterate that our administration is committed to the pursuit of fundamental objectives of an open society: the pursuit of freedom, security and prosperity for the Nigerian people, and the rule of law.

In the next few days, I shall lay before the National Assembly the 2013 Federal Budget Proposal so that deliberations can commence in earnest on the key policies, programmes and projects that will mark a decisive year for our development and transformation.

I have no doubt that by the time I address you on our next independence anniversary, many of our reform efforts would have yielded even better results.

Over the years, several leaders have built on the foundation laid by our Founding Fathers. The baton is now in our hands.

Let me assure all Nigerians that we shall not fail.

I am confident that Nigeria will continue to be a source of pride to its citizens; to Africa and the Black Race and to humanity; a land that is known for progress, freedom, peace and the promotion of human dignity.

May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria. May God bless you all.

DAILY SUN

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

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Nigeria yesterday marked her 52nd independence anniversary with parades across the counrty. The event was low-keyed.

Governor Godswill Akpabio of Akwa Ibom State and his wife, Ekaete Unoma, during the celebrations in Uyo Stadium

Lagos State Gov., Babatunde Fashola (left), inspecting the Guard of Honour.

Rivers State Gov. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, waving to the crowd in Port Harcourt.

L-R: Chairman, Christians Association of Nigeria (CAN), Kaduna State chapter, Rev. Sam Kujiyet, Deputy Speaker, House Assembly, Mr. Dogara Matoh, his wife, Alhari, Gov. Patrick Yakowa and his wife, Amina, at the special prayers to mark the anniversary.

Abia State Gov., T.A. Orji (3rd right), his wife, Mercy (2nd right), Deputy Gov., Sir Emeka Ananaba (2nd left), his wife, Lady Nene (left), and Speaker, Abia State House of Assembly, Ude Oko-Chukwu, cutting the independence anniversary cake

President Goodluck Jonathan, receiving the National/Regimental Colours from the Chief of Defence Staff, Air Marshal Oluseyi Petinrin, at the presidential change of guard parade, Presidential Villa.

Bayelsa State Gov., Henry Seriake Dickson (r), hoisting the state flag at the Government House gate, Yenogoa.

Nasarawa State Gov. Tanko AlMakura (m), inspecting a parade in Lafia.

Cross River Gov., Liyel Imoke, inspecting a guard of honour, mounted by the police, in Calabar.

Girls Guide Associatio n in a Marchpast.

DAILY SUN Tuesday, October 2, 2012

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Good Health

By AZOMA CHIKWE,JOB OSAZUWA and OGE OKONKWO

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he Nigerian Medical Association [NMA] has condemned the recent strike by the Joint Health Sector Unions [JOHESU] saying that their demand for skipping of Consolidated Health Sector Salary Scale [CONHESS] 10 is unjustifiable.

In a statement,NMA National President,Dr Osahon Enabulele said that government refusal to allow skipping of CONHESS 10 by Allied Health Professionals as well as other demands is justifiable.

The NMA questioned the basis of government’s engagement with JOHESU rather than the recognized individual unions and associations in the health sector.

According to Enabulele,”we have reviewed the publicized demands of JOHESU,particularly the basis of the current strike action by JOHESU and wish to state as follows that JOHESU’s demand for Skipping of Salary CONHESS 10 is unjustifiable.

“It is indeed shocking and disappointing to the NMA that members of JOHESU/Allied health professionals are demanding to continue in acts reminiscent of stealing from government by threatening and blackmailing government to allow them jump a whole grade level in the public service.

“This is certainly outrageous, especially as there is no verifiable or justifiable reason to warrant that immoral concession. “ If government succumbs to this threat and blackmail by allowing the Allied Health Professionals under the aegis of an amorphous body to skip a grade level (even against the circular earlier issued by the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation outlawing skipping in the civil service) then government must also allow skipping of grade level not just for doctors, but for the entire Federal Civil Service workforce. “ In that case, government will have to elongate the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) for medical/dental practitioners in addition to re-introducing the Medical Salary Super Scale (MSSS)/Salary Structure for doctors. This is the only way the NMA can accept any immoral skipping of salary grade level by the Allied Health Professionals. Anything to the contrary may trigger a full scale industrial action by medical and dental practitioners in public institutions in Nigeria.

Speaking on other demands of JOHESU,like the consultancy/consultant cadre and specialist allowances,Enabulele said,”We wish to responsibly state that the craze by every health worker group/Allied Health Professionals to be designated as Consultant calls for a serious rethink on the part of government on how it got to this point of inducing this type of inordinate demands within its system.

“It is important to point out that the term ‘Consultant’ as used in the healthcare system is not an appellation for collecting allowances as our friends in JOHESU seem to believe. To the contrary, the Consultant carries a lot of responsibility and liability. Patients are registered and admitted under the Consultant in the hospital.

Irrespective of who works with the Consultant, including other doctors, he/she (the Consultant) has a final decision on the patient, and takes responsibility for any adverse outcome, even in the law court. Where other doctors stop is where the Consultant almost always starts, hence he/she is the one that is capable of opening and operating in the brain, the heart, the liver, the kidney, the eyes and takes the decision to amputate a gangrenous limb or cut off a cancerous breast to mention but a few.

Indeed, the buck stops on the table of the Consultant. There is no other health professional with such responsibility or anything near it.

He/She is the Consultant by virtue of the value and quality of service he/she brings into the care of the patient, and also for the liability he/she bears; and not merely on the possession of a certificate.

The specialist allowance is for the high and

CONHESS: NMA says health workers demands not justifiable ….Threatens to proceed on strike if government bows to demands of health workers

Dr. Enabulele extra value the Consultant’s training adds to patient care and the huge responsibility and liability he carries on a daily basis.

If others are to be paid specialist allowance then the same should apply to all medical and dental practitioners in public service, and a special allowance should now be created for the true Specialist Medical Consultant in the health system. This is in addition to being entitled to all other allowances payable to others.

However, within the hospital setting, the term Consultant should be retained for only the medical/dental specialists (as is currenly the case in public and private hospitals). This will go a long way in averting chaos in government hospitals all over Nigeria. Anything done to the contrary is a recipe for chaos and conflict in public hospitals.”

Commenting on the Presidential Committee on Harmony in the Health Sector,he said, “the NMA had earlier backed out of the Committee when it became obvious that the

leadership of the Committee had a pre-determined mission, displaying overt bias against the doctors’positions. This was crowned with a draft report that contained things that were neither discussed nor agreed on at the meetings. Following the decision to submit the fictitious and divisive report the NMA submitted hers differently.

Global best practices formed the basis of NMA’s submissions which we hope will not be ignored.

Dr Enabulele also lent his voice on Promotion of Health Professionals from CONHESS 14 to 15, “the true demand here is masked by the demand for promotion to CONHESS 15 from 14. The actual demand is promotion to the rank of Director. It may be surprising to note that the doctors are the only group of senior staff in the Federal Service (except academic staff of higher institutions) whose scheme of service does not include the Directors’ cadre.

“This was done some years back when it was reasoned that since the health sector, and in particular the hospital system, was made up of many professional groups it would be cumbersome to attach the Directors’cadre to one group and leave the others since the system cannot afford too many Directors. This explains why a doctor on GL 17 (CONMESS 7) is designated Chief Medical Officer (for general duty cadre) or Consultant Special Grade I (for Consultants) instead of Director (CMO) and Director (CSG I) respectively.

“The NMA will not accept any further discrimination. If there will be Directors of nursing, physiotherapy, radiographer, medical records, lab science, then there should naturally and justifiably be Directors of Internal Medicine, General Surgery, Ophthalomology, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Paediatrics, Orthopaedics, Chemical Pathology, Anatomic Pathology, Medical Microbiology, Haematology, Oncology, Radiology, Nuclear Medicine. Anything short of this will be unacceptable to the NMA. The pertinent question today is, how would this arrangement lead to better patient care which should be of prime concern to all of us?” he asked.

The NMA President however said that his

Association has never opposed the promotion of graduates irrespective of profession to GL 17 or equivalent, but had advocated that for uniformity, fairness and justice the same nomenclature used for doctors should be used for others. He clarified that a pharmacist on CONHESS 15 will be designated Chief Pharmacist, and same for others.

The NMA President pointed out that the Association was in support of the need to review the retirement age of doctors, “the NMAhas over the years made a case for the raising of the retirement age of doctors. Our position was that because of the great investment in training and the value added to service by Medical Consultants and Senior care doctors the retirement age should be raised to 70 years for Medical Consultants and Chief Medical Officers and 65 years for others.

“The recent adjustment in the retirement age of academic staff is a decision in the right direction, and should be extended to the health sector in a similar manner.

It is common knowledge that when our doctors, and Consultants in particular, are retired at 60 years they are easily employed by foreign countries for 10 to 20 years and their experience and mentorship lost to others. The greater the cognate experience of a doctor the better the service he renders,” he noted.

The NMA was of the belief that the tension and crises in the health sector will be greatly reduced if certain services are privatized through the Public-Private partnership (PPP) arrangement in such a manner that manpower training would not be impeded. Her President listed services that can be privatized which includes, Laboratory Services, Pharmacy, Radiography, Physiotherapy, Catering and Laundry.

“In hospitals where some of these services have been privatized, there has been improved quality of healthcare services, cost containment and increased revenue. We therefore advise government to give concrete expression to her Public-Private Partnership arrangement in all government hospitals,” he said.

Nutricima launches community games to promote wellbeing

By JOB OSAZUWA

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itness, they say comes at a price, this is probably because it requires strict measures of self-discipline based on good nutrition and physical exercises, the necessary ingredients for achieving total body and mind wellness.

But important as this basic human requirement is, not many people can afford it, both in terms of cost, time and motivation.

This is what makes the new sporting initiative, tagged Community Games by Nutricima Limited laudable. The programme was launched recently in Lagos under the sponsorship of one of the company’s premium brand, Olympic milk.

According to spokespersons of the company, the product possesses necessary nutritional benefits for the nourishment of sportsmen and women, while the programme, a multi-sport communal recreational activity would hopefully promote community wellbeing among Nigerians. Thus, the company is offering Nigerians the opportunity for sports and nourishment in one package.

At the launch event for Community Games recently in Lagos, the senior brand manager, Olympic Milk, Mrs Chiaka Eluchie, stated that Olympic Milk contains the essential nutrients that would promote good health among the competing youths and their related communities, even as it is pocket - friendly.

“Olympic Milk, manufactured by Nutricima Limited is made in the Nutricima tradition of global quality; full of all the goodness of Milk.

Preaching the benefit of communal wellbeing, the programme’s organizers believe that Community Games emphasizes the importance of oneness as an important aspect of national life.

Thus the participation of grassroots people either directly in the sporting activities or as supporters of individual participants and teams tends to foster the spirit of community and oneness.

Explaining the concept further, Head of Marketing, Nutricima Limited, Mrs Wande Oluwasegunfunmi, emphasized the bonding nature of communal sports as a phenomenon that fosters a shared sense of victory or loss.

“The lamentation about the performance of the Nigerian team at the just concluded Olympics came forth as a shared sense of loss as Nigerians rose as one community to express our pain and disappointment.”

She further said that Community Games is Olympic Milk’s way to give back to the society by providing a platform to showcase and reward young sporting talents and hopefully inspire communities to begin to think and act by excellence and in unity of purpose. This will be achieved as families and members of the communities cheer the talents on.

“If from these games future Olympic champions arise, then we have achieved our ultimate

goal. However, if all we achieve is closer bonds and sense of belonging between individuals and tribes while enriching lives with the benefits of Olympic Milk and promoting overall wellbeing by that too we would have fulfilled our mission as a healthy dairy beverage provider,” she stated.

Guest of honour at the launch, Mr. Seyi Akinwunmi, Chairman, Lagos State Football Association, in his address gave his support for the initiative stating that it is particularly a thrilling thing because the participation of a lot of non-traditional sports people will promote fun and affinity in communities.

“I am one who believes that big things can start small. Olympic Games as we know it today started small, indeed very small in the 18th Century B.C. in Greece with its central theme as community. The Olympics however became so successful that warring communities laid down their arms during the games; thereby building peace blocks in the process. These basic elements of solidarity, peace and sense of community still thrive among sporting communities worldwide today”, he stressed.

The Communal Games, designed to be an annual event was flagged off in ten communities -Bariga, Ketu, Obalende, Surulere, Ikorodu, Ajegunle, Orile Iganmu, Mushin, Oshodi and Agege - from five local governments areas of Lagos state is expected to be replicated in other parts of the country.

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Tuesday, October 2, 2012

DAILY SUN

SUN Tech O

sun State Governor, Mr. Rauf Aregbesola, has restated his administration’s commitment to further boost the Information and Communication Technology(ICT) sector that will create more employment as well as increase the gross domestic progression (GDP) of the country’s economy.

Speaking recently at the Nigeria Telecom Awards organised by Logica Group, the governor noted that the steady march to the digital age had just begun, hinting that ICT raised the state’s internally generated revenue (IGR) by 100 per cent from N300 million to N600 million monthly.

Said he: “We have been in office for less than two years; a time I believe is rather too short to be selfsatisfied with or be triumphant about our achievements. We have a long way still to go and we have only just begun.

Information and Communications Technology (ICT) has become the cornerstone of development in our time. It is not for nothing that our age has been aptly dubbed the Information Age. “Technology has revolutionized the way we do things. It has helped in creating a world that is now truly a global village. We have stopped the old practice of tax collection by travelling clerks. Rather, all taxes, rates and levies payable in the state are now done through the banks and paid directly into the accounts of the government. With this technological innovation alone, we have blocked loopholes and have been able to double the internally generated revenue of the government from N300 million to N600 million. ICT is an indispensable tool for growth and development at all levels of human engagement personal and corporate, national and global. Today’s generation can only wonder what our world would look like without the ubiquitous presence of technology. Even at that, there still exists an unpardonable degree of digital divide between the developed and developing worlds”.

Broadband According to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), by 2011, one third of the world’s 7 billion people used the Internet. With respect to ICT access, of 1.8 billion households worldwide, one third had Internet access. In developing countries, 25 per cent of homes had a computer and 20 per cent had Internet access. As regards available Internet bandwidth per Internet user,

Bisi Olaleye

IT News Weekly

08094000013 b.olaleye@sunnewsonline

Best ICT Reporter of The Year

How ICT jumpstarted our IGR to N600m monthly – Aregbesola there exist great disparities between Europe, which has almost 90,000 bit/s of bandwidth per user, and Africa, which has the lowest – 2,000 bit/s per user. The world’s top broadband economies are from Europe and Asia and the Pacific. In the Republic of Korea (South Korea) mobilebroadband penetration exceeds 90 per cent.

ICT The ICT industry is one of the highly promising and rapidly growing sectors of the Nigerian economy. It has

the areas of job creation, economic growth and transparency of governance. According to ITU, between 2005 and 2010, telecommunications revenue grew from 3.1 per cent to 3.3 per cent of Nigeria’s GDP while telecommunications investment as a percentage of revenue improved significantly from 0.4 per cent to 11.1 per cent. Within the same period, mobile-cellular telephone subscriptions (per 100 people) increased from 13.3 to 55.1. As we speak, I am sure, the figures would have gone up.

One of the most forward-looking policy decisions of the Federal

contrib-

u t e d

significantAregbesola ly in

Government in recent time was the creation of the Ministry of Communications Technology to coordinate the nation’s drive towards a digitalised economy. This, no doubt, brings to the fore the indispensable significance of ICT to the development effort of Nigeria. It is my conviction that in matters having to do with ICT – especially in a world where ICT literacy is fast becoming a fundamental right – policy, rather than politics, should define the direction.

Vision 2020 Technology, just like time, waits for nobody. Now is the time to get our acts together. Tomorrow may be too late, especially now that Nigeria aspires to become one of the top 20 economies in 2020, which is just about seven years away.

Much of our effort towards building a knowledge-driven economy in Osun State, is focused on massive investment in e-youth strategies. We believe that an investment in today’s children and youth would yield the best returns in the not-too-distant future. This is the sure path that we have resolved to follow. That is why we have invested in the Opon Imo (elearning tablets), which is a self-study aid and a robust electronic device with uniform learning content designed for use in Senior Secondary Schools in our state.

Opon Imo (e-learning tablets) The electronic tablet comes preloaded with students’ prescribed textbooks, tutorials and past questions in the West African Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), the National Examinations Council (NECO) and the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

This kind of learning aid is traditionally known to be beyond the reach of the majority of our students. It has an in-built feedback mechanism for moni-

NTA StarTimes millionaire emerges

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n a bid to deliver as promised, NTAStarTimes recently gave a whopping N2 million to Mr. Mayowa Olanshile, a young executive at its second year anniversary grand prize ceremony held in Lagos.

Tagged: “Win N2 million promo”, the package, which began on July 16, 2012 , created unending joy to several homes in Nigeria as great prizes were won. It ended on the September 8, 2012, as StarTimes showcased its N2 milion winner, Olanshile, during the week.

The promo also gave lots of opportunities to Nigerians to win prizes, like StarTimes 32” LCD, CRTV, mobile Tv, Gps car Tv and a regional prize of N100,000.

Meanwhile, The Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) has once again reaffirmed its position a major leader in world broadcasting by improving on its content with the introduction of UEFA

Champions league.

The UEFAChampions league, simply known as the Champions league is the most prestigious club competition in European football. An annual sporting event, where the best of European football teams battle for a major tittle with over 300 million Television viewers globally The NTA, having acquired the free-to-air rights for the 2012/13 season would be thrilling its viewers and more importantly football lovers, with live matches from the UEFA Champions league and the Europa Cup. The public can view these matches on the NTA network stations, partner TV stations and the NTA Sports 24.

The NTA Sports24 is a 24 hours Sports dedicated station and is currently exclusive on StarTimes.

Live matches would be broadcasted every match week on Wednesdays and Thursday on NTA Sports 24.In addition the UEFA and EUROPA

match highlights and magazine shows would also be available on same station.

StarTimes subscribers will not only enjoy the live matches of the UEFA champions league, but would also stand a great chance of winning amazing gift during the UEFA Champions League matches as they would be engaged in the StarTimes “Ask and Win GAME” where they would be asked to send their predictions to an exclusive short-code; 33966. Those who get the predictions right would emerge as winners who would be winning gifts like; StarTimes 42” LCD, CRTV, Mobile phone TV, Gps Car Tv and portable TV. StarTimes has also ensured easy payment access for its subscribers and business partners through its collaboration with Stanbic IBTC bank on mobile money (*909#) transfer where payment or subscription could be made through the mobile phone.

toring students’ performance. These tablets are to be made available to all the senior secondary students for free. Through this initiative, the state government seeks to expose pupils of its senior secondary schools to information technology at an early age.

Osun State government may have taken a cue from global best practices exemplified by similar project in India. But in our part of the world, this revolutionary e-learning device, so fittingly tagged Opon Imo (tablet of knowledge) is a trailblazing effort by the State and it is meant to address the problem of access to vital educational resources.

India in 2011 introduced the Aakash, a low-cost android-based elearning device, under a programme to link 25,000 colleges and 400 universities. Although, the Opon Imo and the Aakash do share some basic, functional similarities of facilitating and deepening access to reading and instructional materials, they are different in terms of their architecture.

The two devices were designed with features that are unique to their varied environments.

For instance, while the Aakash relies on external sources (the web) for content, the Opon Imo makes use of internal memory and hence is more suitable to our environment where Internet services are epileptic and unreliable.

The Opon Imo initiative is expected to deliver jobs and transfer new skills to the citizens of the state, promises to be a new, revolutionary learning experience for Osun secondary school pupils. This is one of the significant steps in our journey to a new beginning in the State of Osun.

Digital investment Our investment in computer for secondary school pupils was born out of our conviction that the future belongs to the digital age and it will be disastrous if our people are not prepared for this. The computer has become the centre of the universe whether it is mainframe, desktop, laptop, handheld (as telephone) or palm top. It is interesting now that even artisans and motor mechanics need the computer to diagnose problems with cars and provide solutions to them. Architects and draughtsmen now use the computer to design houses.

Even farmers need the computer for soil testing and analysis, planning, operating certain machinery, tracking farm animals, diagnosing diseases in plants and animals, confirming bank balances, requisitioning farm inputs such as seedlings, fertilisers and agrochemicals and forecasting harvest.

The use of the computer is virtually limitless, depending on the imaginative capacity of the user.

Such sophisticated operations like seismic monitoring, weather prediction and tracking of ocean currents are made easy with the computer.

The whole world today would be in chaos if computers were to fail as some had predicted in a possible electromagnetic impulse attack.

DAILY SUN Tuesday, October 2, 2012

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Banking EFInA champions financial inclusion with cooperatives

BOI to create ICT funding desk

By STEVE AGBOTA

By BISI OLALEYE

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nhancing Financial Innovation & Access (EFInA) has highlighted the opportunities available in using co-operatives as a channel for facilitating financial inclusion in the country.

This is coming as the Federal Department of Co-operatives, stated recently that there were over 80,000 co-operative groups with over 1.4 million members in 605 local government areas in Nigeria. The EFInA Access to Financial Services in Nigeria 2010 survey also revealed that almost 26.0 per cent (21.9 million) of Nigerian adults used informal groups including cooperatives; and for 17.4 per cent (14.8 million) of the adult population, informal groups are their only means of access to financial services.

To improve stakeholder understanding of the co-operatives sector and their potential for enhancing financial inclusion in Nigeria, EFInA undertook an in-depth study (qualitative and quantitative) of the sector in three states - Enugu, Kebbi and Oyo. Speaking at the innovation forum, Chief Executive Officer, EFInA, Ms. Modupe Ladipo, explained that there is a core and dedicated following of co-operatives in the Enugu, Kebbi and Oyo states, which is probably also replicated across Nigeria.

Fidelity, Access, Citi sign MoU with Shell on local content

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hree indigenous banks, Fidelity, Access and First Bank, as well as two foreign institutions, Citi Bank and Standard Chartered recently gave a boost to the Local Content Initiative of the Federal Government as they signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Shell Exploration and Production Companies in Nigeria (SEPCiN) to support contractors towards the actualization of Nigeria’s Local Content aspirations.

The initiative was aimed at placing Nigerian contractors at the front line for service delivery to the Oil and Gas industry.

In his welcome address, Managing Director and Country Chair, Shell Companies in Nigeria, Mutiu Sunmonu, said that Shell was committed to supporting the federal government’s efforts to reform the industry especially through the local content policy.

He noted that the scheme will address the issue of access to funds which appears to be a serious nightmare to operators in the industry. “Financing of projects has traditionally been a major challenge to contractors’ growth and participation in the delivery of goods and services to the oil and gas industry” Sunmonu added that he was “positive that with the scheme being launched, financing difficulties will be greatly reduced.”

L-R: President Computer Association of Nigeria, Mr. Demola Aladekomo, presents the award of "Best Card innovation Bank of the Year" to the Head, E-Channels of Skye Bank Plc, Mr Chuks Iku, at the Nigeria Telecoms Awards 2012, held in Lagos recently.

Banks may be compelled to lend to fertilizer coys

By CHIMA TITUS NWOKOJI

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s part of its efforts to raise the productivity of the nation’s agriculture sector, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), last week widened the scope of financial institutions, intervention in the funding of agriculture.

The apex bank in a policy statement recently directed that banks shall among other responsibilities begin to lend towards the establishment and efficient distribution of fertilizer by supporting fertilizer manufacturing companies in Nigeria.

This was contained in the final draft agricultural sector guideline recently released by

the apex bank to all Deposit Money Banks.

A bank CBN said, that is active in the agriculture sector will need to monitor and report on its activities consistent with this guideline and the Nigerian Sustainable Banking Principles to demonstrate on-going commitment and progress aimed at re-packaging agriculture to become a real business.

According to the apex regulatory institution, banks shall consistent with Nigeria Incentive-Based Risk Sharing System for Agricultural Lending (NIRSAL), finance the manufacture and distribution of improved and high quality seeds, by lending to indigenous seed companies and

importers of seed varieties.

They shall ensure that farmers are able to procure seeds directly from seed manufacturers, by availing them with adequate finance. With support from industry stakeholders, these financial institutions CBN said shall also: “strive for the establishment of an Agricultural Value Chain Research Development Fund that produces high quality research on the needs of the value chain; encourage and finance providers of storage facilities for seeds and other value added products provided that they take into consideration energy efficiency issues.

They should also encourage and finance processors that add value to local products,

Entreprenuer advocates capacity building programme for credit officers

By CHIMA TITUS NWOKOJI

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dredging export and marine manager, Burnsville Integrated Services Limited, Port Harcourt, Mr. Deji Mustapher has raised alarm over the rate at which Nigerian banks frustrate huge dredging contracts running into millions of dollars due to lack of knowledge of terms and technicalities of dredging business.

Lamenting his frustration over the development, Mustapher noted in an exclusive interview with Daily Sun in Lagos that: “Most of the officers don’t understand the dynamics and nitty gritty of dredging operations. It all boils

down to ignorance. They cannot write convincing credit proposal for dredging contracts to enable their banks finance or provide guarantee for foreign financial institutions that are willing to finance the projects.”

He regretted a situation where an entrepreneur will move from one part of the country to the other sweating it out to secure a dredging contract only to come back and have the same contract aborted by account officers in the banks, who due to incompetence could not write a proper credit proposal that will convince banks’ credit committees that the business is viable.

Credit committees are set up by banks to review credit request and ensure that the business for which

credit is sort for is viable, will not lead to default and will enable the bank maximize return on investment.

“That is why I took it upon myself to talk to some specialized training institutions in America to establish a dredging academy in Nigeria. The institution can be set up in Lagos for a start where they can train dredge masters, engineers and serve as a training ground for any banker that is in the oil and gas desk of their various banks. He therefore advised that banks to send their staff for three or four weeks training to be able to exploit the lucrative and capital intensive investment window called dredging,” Mustapher stated.

whilst taking into consideration the Environmental and Social (E&S) impacts of processing operations. The bank the CBN said must endeavour to lend to farmers whose products have off takers and whose farming practices protect the environment by minimizing the use of harmful chemicals/pesticides, and adoption of conservation farming technologies.”

In Nigeria, agriculture contributes about 42 per cent to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) despite the subsistence nature practiced by rural dwellers and small holding farmers who usually rely on rain and rudimentary implements. In term of employment, agriculture still employs a good number of citizens (70 per cent of the rural dwellers) and it has potential to employ about that number in the entire country if properly harnessed through adequate financing of value chain.

While waiting for the reform of the Land Use Act, banks shall continue to lend based on short and long leases that do not displace and/or negatively impact on the livelihoods of local communities guideline stated.

Among other roles banks are expected to assume under the new funding dispensation include encouragement of the creation of public-private marketing corporations that provide adequate support to local products, supporting the decentralization of agricultural insurance and encourage the development of a vibrant and competitive market for agricultural insurance by a range of companies. They are to lend with assistance from NIRSAL in the area of technical assistance, risk sharing, insurance and incentive pillars among others.

he Bank of Industry (BOI) has accepted to create a special desk for Information and Communication technology (ICT) drive local content development in the sector.

Managing Director of the bank, Mrs. Evelyn Oputu, gave the indication during an ICT investment forum organized by the Information Technology Association of Nigeria (ITAN) together with some Indian ICT firms under the auspices of the National Association of Computer and Software Companies of Indian(NASSCOM).

Speaking at the event in Lagos, Oputu said the bank would support ‘worthy ICT transactions’ by creating a special desk to address funding of ICT projects that are adjudged to have greater value on the economy.

She explained that the bank will always partner any sector that has potential that has impacted on the to impact the economy in terms of technical knowhow, stressing that ICT industry was not an exception.

“We would support any joint venture between local IT firms in Nigeria and foreign firms and that iT entrepreneurs who are aboveboard with deserving transactions should be rest assured that we would support them, maybe not at a single-digit interest rate but with other concessions.

“Oputa said BOI would not hesitate to set up an ICTspecific desk to handle ICT transactions and lending as the volume of such requests increases. We can be hiring personnel and investing in other required logistics in creating such unit if we don’t have worthy ICT-related transactions and financing proposals to justify it” She, however, advised ICT companies willing to approach the bank for such financial support to ensure that their proposals were ‘clear, transparent and devoid of ambiguity,’ adding that technology is a technical area and as such, clarity is needed by bankers, who will be saddled with the task of vetting such proposals for smooth assessment.

Earlier in her remarks President of ITAN, Mrs Florence Seriki, had asked for proper funding for IT companies operating in Nigeira, especially the indegenous firm as a strategy to boost local content development, job creation and increased value to the economy

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DAILY SUN Tuesday, October 2, 2012

Banking Budget 2013: What Nigerians should expect From ISAAC ANUMIHE, Abuja

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rom all indications, the 2013 Appropriation Bill will be presented to the National Assembly this month by President Goodluck Jonathan as promised by this administration early in the year.

Presenting the draft copy of the budget to newsmen recently, the Co-ordinating Minister for the Economy and Minister of Finance, Dr (Mrs) Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, said that the president had expressed his willingness to send the draft copy to the National Assembly on October 4, saying that the executive arm of the government had already engaged the relevant committees of the National Assembly in very fruitful discussions on the budget.

The minister applauded the diligence and commitment of the staff of her ministry and the Budget Office who worked assiduously to ensure that the 2013 budget draft was ready in September as earlier promised.

According to her, the 2012 budget will end on December 31, this year if the National Assembly passes the appropriation bill within this year.

She said that if the National Assembly could key into this effort, the 2013 Budget will become effective from January 1 next year.

This feat will break the cycle of late presentation and poor implementation of the budget which has pitched the National Assembly against the executive for years.

• Okonjo-Iweala

Beside the ugly face-off between the National Assembly and the executive, the nation has not fared better because for several years now Nigeria has grappled with poor implementation of the budget which invariably has impinged on the overall national development.

Earlier, the National Assembly was irked with very low utilization of the capital budget which directly affects the capital projects all over the country.

Such capital projects include, roads, railways, agriculture, provision of water, provision of health facilities (such as hospitals, drugs, equipment) and other infrastructure.

The Minister had argued that the

Poser on FCMB’s acquisition of Finbank

By CHIMA NWOKOJI

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ast week, the shareholders of First City Monument Bank (FCMB) and FinBank Plc, endorsed the merger of the two banks as 99.98 per cent of FCMB shareholders were said to have voted in favour of the resolution at a court ordered meeting in Lagos.

This was a follow-up to the regulatory approval of the merger, including an approvalin-principle from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on July 30, 2012. By this approval from the shareholders, the entire share capital of FinBank has been canceled and the bank dissolved without being wound up. Consequently, all assets and liabilities of FinBank, including its real properties and intellectual property rights, have been transferred to FCMB. Though the deal is 99 per cent complete, a section of shareholders of Finbank remained dissatisfied. They have continued to question the role of regulators in the entire exercise, as well as the effectiveness of Nigeria’s legal system to protect the interest of minorities.

Some industry experts have drawn attention to earlier allegation by the Independent Shareholders Association of Nigeria (ISAN) to the effect that the assets of Finbank Nigeria Plc may have been under-valued to the advantage of its acquiring bank, First City Monument Bank (FCMB). Their renewed interest seems to have some relevance following recent revelations that FCMB will realize N4 billion from alleged plan to sell about 8 properties of Finbank Plc, which it acquired last February for N6 billion.

Shortly after FCMB’s court ordered Emergency General Meeting in September last year where its shareholders endorsed the acquisition of Finbank, the National Coordinator of ISAN, Sir. • Sanusi S u n n y N w o s u

together with another minority shareholder of Finbank Plc who is the Managing Director, First Aluminium Nigeria Plc, Mr. Ben Elfrink, described the entire exercise as a fraud and a contravention of section 413 of the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA). They alleged that Finbank was being shortchanged as each existing shareholder of FinBank exchanges 60 shares with 1 FCMB share (or 10 kobo as cash consideration).

Analysts in the financial sector have described the recent move by FCMB as assets-stripping. Assets-stripping is described

by Investopedia online dictionary as the process of buying an undervalued company with the intent to sell off its assets for a profit. The individual assets of the company, such as its equipment and property, may be more valuable than the company as a whole due to certain factors that ranges from poor management or poor economic conditions.

In the case of Finbank Plc,its trouble started after the Central Bank of Nigeri’s special audit of its activities in 2009. The CBN had observed there was poor corporate governance which among other reasons led to the erosion of its capital leading to negative assets of about N104.751billion. The bank was reported to have recorded loss after tax of N2.5 billion based on unaudited half year accounts as at June 30 2011.

Finbank’s sins which earned it “the mark of death” was again brought to the fore by the Director General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Ms Arunma Oteh, while testifying during the National Assembly probe.

Appearing before the Senate Committee probing the near collapse of the capital market some months ago, Oteh, disclosed that Finbank engaged six law firms to incorporate 95 companies and transferred more than N25billion of depositors’ funds to nine of these companies and used these funds to purchase 2.8 billion units of its own shares.

“This was in violation of Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules. They also used some of the other companies to sell some of those shares. These were some of the ways of creating false sense of activity in market,” Oteh disclosed.

While shareholders of Finbank went to court challenging the proposed sale, alleging undue interest on the part of CBN as Vine Capital which made a better offer was rejected, the bank was sold to FCMB after AMCON injected about N44billion worth of bonds to soak up its bad loans. Analysts are worried that Finbank Plc had no option since the government through its banker CBN had orchestrated the merger to the advantage of FCMB. Today, some aggrieved shareholders of Finbank are still watching helplessly as their bank sinks gradually into FCMB with little or nothing left.

After selling 8 properties in the FCT, and another in Port Harcourt, Rivers State with the total asking price of N4.1 billion, FCMB will be left with other properties, including hundreds of vehicles, generators and office equipment, in at least 170 branches of Finbank for sale in future.

But when contacted, the bank’s Group Head, Corporate Communications, Ikechukwu Kalu in company of the Head, Corporate Communications FCMB, Tunde Shofowora said the bank has not commissioned any person or company to sell properties, neither has it any further plans to lay off Finbank staff. Qustions in the mouth of most commentators now include who is deceiving who? Is the judiciary really the last hope of the Nigerian common man?

“We have not earmarked any assets for selling. We have not commissioned anybody or any company to do evaluation of properties before talking about selling any assets for FCMB. We cannot talk of selling assets of Finbank when the mergers and acquisition process is still in process,” the bank stated.

implementation of the budget was about 58 per cent as at July this year but the National Assembly, through their investigation, had arrived at 14 per cent implementation and had raised alarm on the slow pace of implementation. Consequently, the legislators invited Okonjo-Iweala to explain how she arrived at the figure. The altercation which ensued therefrom prompted the National Assembly to moved for the impeachment of the president on the floor of the house and insisted that the budget implementation be move faster than it is moving.

The Minister had argued that the executive will not achieve 100 per cent implementation of the 2012 budget by the end of the year because the implementation of the budget started in April this year.

She exonerated the executive of any blame saying that the executive had released a total of N710.4 billion so far to the ministries, departments and agencies out of which N535.2 billion is cash backed while N320.9 billion had been utilized. She, however, pushed the blame to the MDAs, arguing that they are the spending agencies and it defeats any economic sense to release more money to them when they have not utilized the ones they have been given.

It is against this backdrop that the president ordered the relevant ministries to prepare the 2013 budget on or before September, this year so that it will be presented to the National Assembly before the end of the year.

The 2013 proposal captioned ‘Budget of Fiscal Consolidation with Growth is predicated on crude oil production projection of 2.53 million barrels a day against 2.48 million barrels a day in 2012 and a benchmark price of $75 a barrel as against $72 a barrel in 2012.

The executive had earlier indicated that it is going to cut down on the recurrent in the 2013 budget to have enough fund for the capital projects. To this end, it had set up the Steve Oronsaye panel to recommend to the government the MDAs that have conflicting roles with a view to merging them.

This means, a lot of agencies and departments will be merged and a lot of people will lose jobs and of course, a lot of funds will be saved. The fund that will be generated from the downsizing, the government said, would be channelled into capital projects.

The government promised that the over 7,000 projects which have been abandoned close to two decades, will be completed with the fund.

Already, a lot of agencies and departments have been recommended by the Oronsaye panel for merger which include, Independent Corrupt Practices and other Offences Commission (ICPC), Ministry of Police Affairs, Voice of Nigeria (VON), Federal Road Safety Commission and a host of others. Some departments in the ministries are also not spared.

But the stakeholders have angrily commented on government’s plan, saying that the government should also look inward and cut down on some excesses that concern them directly.

According to them, the government that wants to make optimum use of available resources, should not budget billions of naira on refreshments and welfare for itself. “What exactly is welfare and to what purpose are these sums applied? It is our view that such appropriation is illegal and unknown to Nigerian fiscal jurisprudence.” they asserted.

However, with the early introduction of the budget, it is expected that more capital projects will be completed on time next year and it is also expected that 100 per cent of the budget will be implemented.

Of course, the ugly experience of the faceoff between the executive and the legislature will be avoided.

Unfortunately, more Nigerians are likely to lose jobs and that will be contrary to the jobcreation policy of the administration.

DAILY SUN Tuesday, October 2, 2012

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Banking...Insurance We collected over 98% of premium in first year –Ojuma Stories by MADUKA NWEKE

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r. Val Ojuma is the Managing Director of FBN Life Assurance Plc, a subsidiary of First Bank of Nigeria Plc. The company is one of the latest entrant into the insurance industry. Yet its influence in insurance industry could make people take it as among the mid-comers.

In this interview Ojuma revealed that the company had a good entry into the industry. He said that during the first 12 months of its business, the company collected over 98% of its written premiums.

Excerpts: Strategies to sustain position in the industry As the first company to receive licence in Nigeria in over 20 years and coming into the industry at a time when many of the operating companies are going through enormous challenges, it was important that we got our strategies right from the beginning. In few words, our strategy has been anchored on doing things differently, giving to the customers products at least cost.

Innovation has been our watchword.

Performance FBN Life products & Services have been very well received and we have brought some new excitements into the industry. The old operators who seem to have been complacent have been awakened by our impetus. Our shareholders have shown a lot of understanding and our Directors have supported our strategies.

Selling point Our products have received very wide acceptance much to our surprise and delight. All our products have been designed with the consumers in mind and have all been made to address specific gaps in the existing product offerings in the market. Some of our Retail products that are selling the most in the market include: Flexi Savings Plan, Flexi Cash flow, Flexi Education Plan, Extended Family Support Plan etc.

Awareness Using our growing team of financial advisers and the extensive network of First Bank of Nigeria, we have extended our reach beyond Lagos with branches in Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt and desks in many First Bank branches. We are now able to bring insurance closer to potential customers. We have held several seminars in Lagos and are extending various educational programmes to schools and associations across Nigeria to enhance the public understanding of Insurance.

Service delivery We had planned certain standards from inception, setting for ourselves very high targets. At

•Ojuma

this time, I can honestly say, we are still not where we want to be in service delivery considering the time it has taken our software vendors to fully automate our processes. However, we are all certain that our service delivery will achieve the lofty heights we planned before the end of 2012.

But I dare to say, that even as we are today, we are miles ahead of other competitors.

Claims payment We have met and sometimes

ing on external consultants for information. Our Research and Development unit is expected to become active from early 2013.

Premiums In Life Insurance business, only group businesses are written on credit. Most Individual Life policies require premiums to be paid in installments and in advance.

Hence, outstanding premiums are challenges attributed to corporate clients and large group businesses. At FBN Life, we have been very selective of the businesses we write and the clients we accept. Therefore, outstanding premiums have not been a major challenge for us. During the first 12 months of our doing business, we collected over 98% of our written premiums. We believe it does not make sense to carry receivables in our books. The regulator has recently published new provisions in this respect and we expect that the issue of outstanding premiums will gradually be resolved.

Insurance penetration Insurance penetration in Nigeria remains very low with Life Insurance below 0.3 per cent and non-life slightly above 0.5 per cent. The regulator and industry operators are working together to increase insurance education and exceeded our standard in claims awareness among the public. payment from day one making Also, the regulator is encouraging claims payment within 24 hours. operators to redesign the various First Bank Holding Company products offerings to make them We believe it is a very pragmat- more consumer-friendly. The ic step that will enhance the sepa- challenge of distribution remains ration of functions in the financial daunting with poor state of infraservices sector. We believe it will structure for premium collection. give a respectable identity to FBN Overall, most operators have Life become aware that the size of the Research and development uninsured public offer great This is a continuous function potentials for premium growth and so far, we have not built our and will therefore increase penein-house unit but have been rely- tration.

FG urged to strengthen security

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he Federal Government has been advised to take stringent measures to checkmate insecurity bedeviling the nation in order to safeguard the tottering economy.

According to Risks and Insurance Managers Society of Nigeria (RIMSON), insecurity is already taking a huge toll on businesses and investments in the country.

Worried by the situation, the organization stated that a lot could be done to equip risk players in organisations and within government circles, to institute measures that would help prevent or reduce the impacts of the menace on the economy.

In its efforts to eradicate the ugly trend, RIMSON is dedicating its 2012 Annual Conference to finding lasting solutions to the degenerating security situation in the country.

Disclosing this, its president, Mrs. Efiom-Ekaha, said the theme for this year’s Conference, “New Perspectives in Security Risk Management” has been carefully selected to address the pressing issues of safety and security and their implications for personal and corporate business survival in the country.

According to her, the Conference will provide a veritable platform for intellectual discourse by experts as well as proffer practical solutions that will ensure that organizations stay ahead in quest for value creation for stakeholders amid heightened security risks in the business environment.

The Annual Conference is a major event of RIMSON, at which Risk and Insurance Management Practitioners from across the country assemble to examine topical issues and contribute to the discourse on issues of national and professional interest.

Maria Samali, RIMSON Executive Secretary says the forum will look at issues including Terrorism, Emergency Response and Crisis Management: Implications for Social and Economic Survival and Terrorism Insurance Cover in Nigeria: Issues and Solutions.

Nigeria @ 52

Insurance industry continues to wobble

I

nsurance industry contribution to national income has remained at low ebb despite efforts by regulators and operators in the industry to leverage on various innovations to up the ante.

The regulatory authority, the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), in its strive to improve on the awareness and penetration introduced the Market Development Restructuring Initiative (MDRI) through which it pushed compulsory insurance.

The Commissioner for Insurance, Mr. Fola Daniel, in one of his public outings noted that the Commission also introduced the Microinsurance, the Takaful and the Agricinsurance all in order to bring the public to the knowledge of insurance and make it contribute to gross domestic product (GDP).

According to Mr. Yemi Soladoye, the Managing Director of RiskguardAfrica Nigeria Limited, over N60 bil-

lion microinsurance opportunities are untapped by insurers. He said that unless something is done, the contribution of the industry to GDP will continue to be low.

He said at a workshop organised by the NAICOM for journalists in Calabar that microinsurance remains the panacea for poverty eradication if properly harnessed.

In its own spheres, the Nigerian Insurance Association (NIA) worked assiduously to reduce fake insurance through the introduction of Nigerian Insurance Industry Database (NIID).

Former Chairman, NIA and Managing Director Lasaco Insurance Plc, Mr. Mr. Olusola Ladipo-Ajayi, who midwifed the database, said the industry would soon be rid of fake motors documents since you don’t need to get to any office to verify it.

He said that document authenticity could be ascertained with the use of the cell phone.

According to him, about 65 per cent

of vehicles on Nigerian roads carry fake motor insurance certificates adding that a lot corners are being cut in motor insurance thereby reducing the premium accruable from there. He added that the provision of the NIID will erase paper certificates as most of those with genuine documents will have them entered in the industry database for onward verification.

He added that NIA had distributed about 500,000 mobile phones to law enforcement agencies in different states of the federation to help in the verification of insurance certificates.

He said the aim is to reduce dependence on paper and to create bottlenecks for fake insurers who parade fake insurance documents and compel motorists to acquire genuine documents for their vehicles.

However, all the efforts in that direction have not started yielding dividend as insurance penetration is still below three per cent while fake insurers seem to be increasing on a

daily basis.

This Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria (CIIN) through its President, Dr Wole Adetimehin, said insurance industry targets for the year are far from being achieved. The Institute disclosed that the industry target for the year is for the market to achieve at least three per cent (one per cent for 2011) contribution to GDP and creation of additional 250,000 new jobs, a gross premium of N1.10 trillion and per capita of N7500. It said: “As at 2010 and the projected estimates for 2011, the targets are far from being achieved.

However, the institute blamed the shortfall the stagnation of the economy, poor infrastructural deficit, insecurity which has in no little way affected businesses in certain sectors of the country and also increased claims, low level of insurance penetration etc. may have contributed to our inability to grow our business to meet the target.

56

DAILY SUN

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

BUSINESS NEWS Daily Domestic Flight Schedule

ARIK AIR Lag-Abj: 07.15, 09.15, 10.20, 15.20, 16.20, 16.50, 18.45 (Mon-Fri/Sat/Sun).

Abj-Lag: 07:15, 09.40,10.20, 12.15, 15.15, 16.15, 17:10, (Mon-Fri/Sat/Sun); 12.15, 15.15, 16.15 (Sun) Lag-PH: 07:15, 11.40, 14.00, 16.10, 17.15 (Mon-Fri) 07.30, 11.40, 15.50 (Sat) 11.50, 3.50, 17.05 (Sun) Abj-PH: 07.15, 11.20, 15.30 (Mon-Fri) 07.15, 16.00 (Sat) 13.10, 16.00 (Sun) PH-Abj: 08.45, 12.50, 17.00 (Mon-Fri) 08.45, 17.30 (Sat) 14.40, 17.30 (Sun) Abv-Beni:08.00, 12.10 (Mon-Fri/Sat) 08.56, 12.10(Sun) Benin-Abj:09.55,13.30, (Mon-Fri/Sat) 10.50, 13.30(Sun)

PRIMARY MARKET AUCTION (PMA) World Bank seeks public private partnership on job creation TENOR

AMOUNT

RATES% ISSUE DATE

91 Day

32,057.31

14.50

08 Aug. 2012

182 Day 50,000.00

15.30

08 Aug. 2012

1 Year

15.38

08 Aug. 2012

90,000.00

MAJOR EXCHANGE RATES – PARALLEL MKT (AIRPORT AS AT 13/08/12) CURRENCY

BUYING (N)

USD 156.50 EURO 197 POUND ST. 252 Source: FMDA

SELLING(N) 160 203.50 256

By AMECHI OGBONNA

T

he World Bank at the weekend released its World Development Report 2013 with a fresh mandate to developing countries to make job creation a cardinal point of their development agenda.

According to the bank, developing countries would need to make job creation a cornerstone of development, with a pay off far beyond income alone, stressing they are critical for reducing poverty, making cities work, and providing youth with alternatives to violence.

The World Development Report 2013, on jobs stresses the role of strong private sector led growth in creating jobs and outlines how jobs that do the most for development can spur a virtuous cycle. The report finds that poverty falls as people work their way out of hardship and as jobs empower women to invest more in their children.

Efficiency increases as workers get better at what

they do, as more productive jobs appear, and as less productive ones disappear. Societies flourish as jobs foster diversity and provide alternatives to conflict.

A good job can change a person’s life, and the right jobs can transform entire societies.

World Bank Group President Jim Yong Kim, stated that governments need to move jobs to centre stage to promote prosperity and fight poverty. “It’s critical that governments work well with the private sector, which accounts for 90 percent of all jobs. Therefore, we need to find the best ways to help small firms and farms grow.

The bank pointed out that jobs equal hope, peace, and can make fragile countries become stable.

The report’s authors highlighted how jobs with the greatest development payoffs are those that raise incomes, make cities function better, connect the economy to global markets, protect the environment, and give people a stake in their societies.

Los-Abv: 09.55, 13.30(Mon-Fri/Sat) 10.50, 13.30(Sun) Lag-Enugu: 07.10, 13.45, 18.30(Mon-Fri) 07.10, 14.00(Sat) 10.20, 13.45, 18.30(Sun) Enugu-Lag: 08.30, 12.00, 18.25 (Mon-Fri) 08.30, 12.00, 15.40(Sat) 12,00, 18.25(Sun) Abj-Enugu: 08.30, 12.00, 18.25, (Mon-Fri) 08.30, 12.00, 15.40 (Sat)12.00, 18.25 (Sun) Abj-Enugu: 10.30, 17.05(Mon-Fri) 10.30(Sat) 17.05(Sun) Enugu-Abj: 08.50, 15.25 (Mon-Fri) 08.50 (Sat) 15.25(Sun) AERO CONTRACTORS Lag-Abj: 06.50, 13.30, 16.30, 19.45 (MonFri/Sat/Sun), 12.30(Sun) 16.45(Sat) Abj-Los: 07.30, 13.00, 19.00 (Mon-Fri/-Sat, 10.30, 14.30, 19.30 (Sun, 18.30 Sat) Lag-Benin: 07.45, 11.00, 15.30 (MonFri/Sat/Sun) 12.30 (Sun 15.30 (Sat) Ben-Lag: 09.15, 12.30, 17.00 (MonFri/Sat/Sun) 17.00 (Sat) 14.00 (Sun) CHANCHANGI AIRLINES Los-Abj: 7.15, 10.00, 13.30, 15.30, 17.30 Abj-Lag: 08.00, 11.45, 13.40, 15.30, 17.30 Lag-Kad: 10.45 (on Fri), 17.00 (MonFri/Sat/Sun) Kad-Lag: 7.30 (Mon-Fri), 08.00 (Sat/Sun IRS AIRLINES Lag-Abj: 9.45, 11.45, 2.45 (Mon-Fri), 9.30, 12.45 (Sat & Sun) Lag-Kano: 6.15 (Mon-Fri), 16.30 Sat&Sun Kano-Lag: 07.30 (Mon-Fri), 10.30 (Sat & Sun) OVERLAND AIRWAYS LAGOS LOS - ILR Mon - Fri 0715hrs LOS - MNA Mon, Wed & Fri 0715hrs LOS - IBA Mon - Fri 0715hrs

IBADAN IBA - ABV Mon - Fri IBA - LOS Mon - Fri

0800hrs 1700hrs

ILORIN ILR - ABV Mon - Fri 0900hrs ILR - LOS Mon - Fri 1630hrs ILR - MNA Mon, Wed & Fri 0900hrs MINNA MNA - ABV Mon, Wed & Fri MNA - ILR Mon, Wed & Fri MNA - LOS Mon, Wed & Fri ABUJA ABV - ILR Mon - Fri ABV - IBA Mon - Fri

0920hrs 1520hrs 1520hrs

1500hrs 1500hrs

• L–R: Chairman, Committe of Chief Compliance Officers of Nigerian Banks and Chief Compliance Officer, Access Bank Plc, Mr Pattision Boleigha, Executive Director, Diamond Bank Plc, Mrs Caroline Anyanwu and Chief Compliance Officer, Standard Chartered Bank Plc, Mr Olusiji Adeyinka at the monthly meeting of the Committee of Chief Compliance officers of Nigerian Banks held in Lagos last week.

Nigeria joins JP Morgan government bond index

N

igeria joined a key JP Morgan local currency government bond index on Monday, becoming the second African country after South Africa to be included in a widely followed index due to its improving liquidity levels.

The country’s entry into the JP Morgan Government Bond Index-Emerging Markets (GBIEM) from October 1 could translate into at least $1.5 billion of inflows to the bond market, the bank estimates.

It will raise the profile of Africa’s most liquid debt market after South Africa and is expected to lead to greater foreign participation, given that Nigerian yields offer a significant premium to established sovereign lenders.

“It’s now seen as a market that can’t be ignored internationally and one of the frontier markets where you need to have a position,” said Samir Gadio, emerging markets strategist at Standard Bank told Reuters.

The entry of Africa’s top crude oil producer into the GBI-EM comes as South Africa joins

Citigroup’s World Government Bond Index, although funds tracking the latter are estimated at $2 trillion compared with $180 billion for the JP Morgan index.

At around $25 billion, Nigeria’s sovereign debt market is still dwarfed by South Africa’s $100 billion. Secondary market turnover is also around a fifth of its more developed peer.

However, analysts said Nigeria’s addition to the GBI-EM marks it out as one of the more accessible markets on the continent for foreign investors.

“Nigeria has done a lot of work in recent years in developing its bond market to improve liquidity,” said Leon Myburgh, sub-Saharan Africa strategist at Citi.

“In most African markets, foreign participation is largely limited to the Treasury bill market, but Nigeria has been able to cross the threshold and see foreign investors enter its bond market as well.”

Nigeria has a weighting of roughly 0.72 per cent in the index and three bonds, maturing in

2014, 2019 and 2022, have been included as they are the most liquid.

Yields have fallen around 300 basis points since JP Morgan announced the inclusion on August 14.

The bank estimates that about half the $1.5 billion in expected inflows may have already come in, largely from hedge funds and niche investors.

“Now I think we’ll see the people that are less familiar with this market coming through - the benchmark investors, the big real money accounts that may have taken some time to internalise this decision to include Nigeria in the index,” said Giulia Pellegrini, JP Morgan strategist for Sub-Saharan Africa.

Nigeria could end up attracting more than $1.5 billion in inflows given that its bonds offer a yield premium of around 700 basis points over the index, Pellegrini wrote in a note to clients published on Sept. 25.

Strong growth, a low debt-to-GDP ratio, rising foreign exchange reserves and a stable currency could spur additional inflows, the note said.

N1.8bn debt weighs down Stock Exchange

By KELECHI MGBOJI

T

he Nigerian stock Exchange (NSE) is in for hard times occasioned by sundry debts, some of which have been penciled down as bad and doubtful of recovery.

The debts totaling N1.836 billion accrued from trade debts, deferred recovery of bonuses, staff debts, gratuity scheme funds and some others which are already litigation matters.

But outstanding among these sundry debts are those arising from deferred recovery of bonuses distributed to certain council members as share of

surplus between 2006 and 2008.

NSE annual report and accounts for 2011, showed that in the period under reference, a total sum of N2.090 billion was distributed to certain council members by the Ndi OkerekeOnyiuke led management of the Exchange disengaged in August 2010.

Notes to the NSE 2011 financial statements read in part “Because this payment is against section 26(3) of Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990, the Securities and Exchange Commission directed The Exchange to recover the money from the Council Members

involved.

“Refunds amounting to N609.5 million (note 13.1) have been received and are maintained in an escrow account. Part of the outstanding balance of N1, 480,065,000 (note 13) is the subject of a litigation on account of a dispute over the basis of payment”.

These significant debts currently giving the NSE much concern came to the fore last weekend at the 51st annual general meeting of the Exchange where some dealing members had cause to lament huge provision for doubtful debts for the year ended December 31, 2011.

57 Monday, BUSINESS August 1, 2011 49 NEWS

DAILY SUN Tuesday October 2, 2012 DAILY SUN NAME OF CURRENCY BUYING

CENTRAL

US DOLLAR 154.78 155.28 POUNDS STERLING 250.6353 251.4449 EURO 200.2079 200.8547 SWISS FRANC 165.3986 165.9329 CFA 0.2848 0.2948 WAUA 237.5652 238.3327 YEN 1.9933 1.9997 YUAN/RENMINBI 24.6264 24.7064 RIYAL 41.2725 41.4058 DANISH KRONA 26.8473 26.934 SDR 238.7017 239.4728 Official exchange rates as at 28/09/2012

SELLING 155.78 252.2546 201.5014 1664672 0.3048 239.1001 2.0062 24.7864 41.5391 27.0207 240.2439

NIBOR TENOR

RATE

CHANGE

DATE

Call 7 Day 30 Day 60 Day 90 Day Source: FMDA

10.6667 11.2083 12.9167 13.4167 13.8333

0.12 -0.04 -0.25 -0.29 -0.58

28 Sep, 2012 28 Sep, 2012 28 Sep, 2012 28 Sep, 2012 28 Sep, 2012

NNPC needs autonomy to function properly – Oginni

By LOUIS IBA

N

igeria’s fuel supply crisis could be improved if greater autonomy is granted the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) to function independent of any form of interference from the government, says Folorunso Oginni, a senior official with PENGASSAN. Oginni, who heads the Lagos Chapter of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association (PENGASSAN), told Daily Sun, that the ugly trend would have been curtailed had the NNPC benn allowed to enjoy “autonomy that allows its top management take proactive and decisive decisions independent of interferences as is the case with other state-owned energy firms like PetroBrass of Brazil and Petronas of Malaysia.”

He lamented the poor state of refineries in

the country which has forced the country into importation of petroleum products, stressing that at this stage in the nation’s history, she ought to have functional refineries that would refine enough crude to meet the needs of the domestic market and even for export.

“At 52 Nigeria should be boasting of refineries that are working optimally. For now, the NNPC is doing very well to cope with the huge demand of supplying fuel to Nigerians at this critical time,” said Oginni.

He regretted that today the corporation is still working with obsolete equipment, under very harsh environment where the refineries are not working properly while their personnel are being attacked and killed trying to fix faults on burst fuel pipelines.

Despite these challenges NNPC still mobilized and returned to site as witnessed in Arepo, Ogun State recently. “We therefore cannot blame them for the ongoing fuel supply crisis,” he added.

International Flight Schedule

CROSS RATES

Ethiopian Airlines Lagos-Addis Ababa (daily) Departure time: 12:15 pm, Arrival time: 1:15 pm Contact no: 014611869/029

AFRIQIYAH AIRWAYS Lagos-Tripoli Tue, Wed, Thur and Sat Departure time: 01:30am, Arrival time: 22:25 pm Contact no: 012711506 BRITISH AIRWAYS Lagos-London Heathrow (daily) Departure time: 11 pm, Arrival time: 5: 50 pm Contact no: 012792690 0r 014615870-5 TURKISH AIRLINES Lagos-Istanbul Mon, Tue, Thur Sat Departure time: 10: 10 pm, Arrival time: 8: 10 pm Customer care no: Not available DELTA AIR Lagos-Atlanta (daily) Departure time: Btw 3pm and 5pm, Arrival time: 10:30 am Contact no: 014483111 EMIRATES Lagos-Dubai Daily (2 flights) Departure time: 3pm, 8.50pm, Arrival time:1pm, 6pm Contact no :01-2717600 LUFTHANSA Lagos-Frankfurt (daily) Departure time: 10:05 pm, Arrival time: 19:08 Contact no: 014612222, 0414480963 AIR FRANCE Lagos-Paris (daily) Departure time: 11 pm, Arrival time: 14:14 pm Customer care no: 01-4610777, 012617959 SOUTH AFRICAN AIRWAYS Lagos-Johannesburg (daily) Departure time: 10:30 pm, Arrival time: 8 or 9 am Customer care no: 2702681-5

L-R: Herbert Wigwe, Deputy Managing Director, Access Bank; Governor Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo and Alhaji Abdul-Hameed Ibrahim, Commissioner for Finance, both of Gombe State, at the completion board meeting for Offer for Subsciption of Gombe N20 Billion Fixed Rate Bond (series1) at the Transcorp Hotel, Abuja, last week.

60% pension funds invested in FG bonds, say PFAs From ISAAC ANUMIHE, Abuja

P

ension Fund Administrators (PFAs) at the weekend, disclosed that about 60 per cent of the total pension contributions has been invested in the Federal three and 20 year tenor bods.

The PFAs, under the aegis of Pension Operators (PenOP), also stated that the best investment for wise businessmen remained the Federal Government instruments because at the worst-case scenario, it could go into ways and means.

"The Federal Government of Nigeria is the best risk. It is your best investment in terms of risk. It is very healthy. In fact, investment in government bonds is the healthiest not just in terms of yields, but in a worst case scenario government can resort to ways and means by printing currency to meet its obligations." Managing Director of Legacy Pensions, Alhaji Misbahu Umar Yola,

who spoke on behalf of the other members of the operators, said.

According to him, the essence of the new pension scheme is to encourage savings for retirement saying that the PFAs are managing these funds by investing in instruments that yield higher returns than when individuals save their monies in banks.

But PenOP expressed concern over the government's planned attempt to dip hands into the pension fund pool to finance infrastructure across the country, saying that pension finds cannot be invested anyhow as investing in infrastructure is not as straightforward as it sounds.

“There must be concession with people that are capable. There is a lot of work to be done before pension funds can be used for infrastructure development. Certain things need to be put in place so that funds don't go down the drain" he submitted.

Speaking on the concerns raised regarding contributors’ funds and the defunct PFAs, Yola,

said: "The account of PFAs is separate from the funds. So, in the event that a PFA goes under, the funds remain safe and can either be transferred to a new PFA that acquires the defunct PFA or the fund is taken over by the National Pensions Commission (PenCom) and warehoused appropriately for the benefit of the individuals." assuring that individuals' funds are very safe with the scheme.

In his remarks, the Managing Director of Sigma Pensions, Mr Umaru Modibo, noted that Retirement Savings Accounts (RSAs) are meant to be drawn after retirement when one is weak and old and can no longer earn a living and not a savings account which the account holders can withdraw from at will.

For him, the air is clear on the 25 per cent lumpsum withdrawal by individual account holders noting that the 25 per cent lumpsum given to the retiree is not meant for RSA holders to build houses rather it is expected that they must have built houses earlier than that time.

Withdraw Naira patent from concessionaire, CBN urged

By OMODELE ADIGUN

T

he President of the Certified Board of Administrators of Nigeria (CBAN),Professor Gbolahan Dairo, has called on the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to reclaim the patent of printing the nation’s currency from the Australian firm to which it was concessioned few years back.

Dairo, who gave the advice at the conferment of CBAN fellowship and induction of new members Thursday in Lagos, berated the CBN Governor, Mr.Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, for championing the introduction of the aborted N5,000 note when the banking public are still struggling to adjust to the cashless policy yet to take off fully across the nation due to various challenges.

The CBAN boss, however, praised Nigerians for shooting down the apex bank’s proposal, arguing that the country could ill afford such a white elephant project now when it is still battling to adjust to the cashless policy.

His words: “The recent event in the nation’s economic sector is giving everyone concerns.

Before now, the CBN Governor, Malam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, introduced the Cashless Economy policy which is yet to take full operations nationwide due to various challenges such as network failure, inefficient power supply, inadequate Points of Sale(PoS) and ignorance on the part of most of the end users. A lot of people are skeptical and are worried over the risks it could expose them to. Despite all these challenges, the banks have gone ahead to implement the policy.

Nigerians are still struggling to adjust to it when suddenly the apex bank insisted on introducing

the higher denomination of N5,000 note and the conversion of N5,N10 and N20 to coins.

I don’t think the CBN should put two policies together that contradict each other.”

Dairo also trashed the apex bank for hinging the aborted proposal on an inexcusable ground of using the currency restructuring to “take back all its patent and right so that it would not be held ransom whenever the currency is to be printed.”

He wondred why the banking Czar should outsource the printing and minting of the nation’s currency to a foreign company. Explaining the implications of such decision, he said: “The polymer currency is currently being printed in Australia by a CBN-favoured company. This makes the company charge whatever it likes and holds the patent of the currency, which makes it difficult to be printed anywhere else.

QATAR AIRWAYS Lagos-Doha Daily Departure time: 9:45 am, Arrival time: 7:55am Contact: 012798888/014633333 KENYA AIRWAYS Lagos-Nairobi (daily) Departure time: 11:05 am, Arrival time: 10:42am Contact: 012719433 CHINA SOUTHERN Lagos-Beijing via Dubai Tuesdays, Thursdays Departure time: 12:15pm, Arrival time: 10:30 am Tuesdays, Thursdays.

Contact: 01-4610777 or 01-2617959 EGYPT AIR Lagos-Cairo Mon, Wed, Thur, Fri & Sun Departure time: 2pm, Arrival time: 1pm KLM Lagos-Amsterdam (daily) Departure time: 11pm, Arrival time: 8:30pm Contact: 01-4610777, 01-2617959 VIRGIN ATLANTIC Lagos-London Heathrow (daily) Departure time: 10:20 am daily, Arrival time: 5:30 am Contact: 01-4612750, 01-4612747 ARIK AIR Lagos-London Heathrow (daily) Departure time: 10:05pm Arrival 7.00pm Lagos-New York Tuesdays and Thursdays Departure time: 11:20pm Arrival 6pm Lagos-Johannesburg (daily) Departure 11.15pm Arrival 4.15pm Lagos-West Coast (Freetown, Banjul & Dakar) Mon, Wed & Fri Departure 8:00am Arrival 6.45pm Lagos-Accra (daily) Departure 8.00am, 5pm 8.45pm, 5.45pm Contact: 01-2799999.

58

DAILY SUN

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

BUSINESS NEWS Customs impounds contraband worth N550m

By ADEWALE SANYAOLU

T

he Federal Operations Unit of the Nigeria Customs Service Zone C, Owerri, Imo State, has impounded contraband worth N500million from its operations covering SouthEast and South-South geopolitical zones of the country.

Disclosing this recently to newsmen in Owerri, the Comptroller of the Zone, Mohammed Biu, who said the command made 16 seizures,

comprising various goods, said the development was unprecedented in the history of the unit.

Comptroller Biu explained that the seized items were intercepted along ObolloAfor-Umunya 9th Mile axis.

These items include cartoons of imported soap, second hand clothing, vehicles and second hand tyres. Also impounded were 1X4ft. container of second hand clothings along Port Harcourt-Aba road and a 10tyre truck filled with imported

soap and textile materials at Calabar.

Biu reiterated the commitment of the zone to fight smugglers and economic saboteurs and vowed that there will be no sacred cows, while warning those involved in these acts to desist or face the full weight of the law.

He advised the importers and traders operating in the zone to always abide by the economic and fiscal policy of government in their dealings, or face the wrath of the law.

Tax reform: CITN seeks regular tax law review

By STEVE AGBOTA

T

he Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN) has called on government and other agency involved in tax administration to take appropriate measure to ensure constant review and amendment of tax laws in the country.

The institute noted that most of Nigerian tax laws are still obsolete and needs to be reviewed yearly for amendments in order to have smooth running and standardised taxation across the nation.

According to the past President of Institute Mr Jacob Babalola Okele, tax laws should never be allowed to remain static because business environment continues to change. He added that the experience in

Unity Bank launches Mastercard to boost service delivery From ISAAC ANUMIHE, Abuja

U

nity Bank of Nigeria last week officially launched three variants of mastercards for its customers and non-customers alike.

Launching the prepaid mastercards, the Executive Director, Central Zone, Mr Ibrahim Tanko Mohammed who represented the Managing Director, Ado Wanka, said that other variants include, mastercard Verve, Holy Trip mastercard and generic mastercard.

According to him, the rollout of the three variants of MasterCard is aimed at giving customers access to their accounts for withdrawals, account balances, funds transfer payment of bills, online purchases, electronic banking among others, anywhere in the world.

He said that the three variants are a renewal of what has been done in the past, adding that the cards are just an expression of the bank’s desire in partnering with the government to ensure that Nigeria achieves FSS2020.

“It is to give our customers the opportunity to follow the global trend where transactions have gone electronic. It will give our customers the opportunity to transact business through electronic channels instead of the use of cash”. he said.

Nigeria has been piece meal tax legislations.

Okele who was represented

by Mr Gabriel Foluso Fasoto, at the 1st Birthday Lecture of Chief David Ajibola Olorunleke, the doyen of Taxation and the 1st President of the Institute, disclosed this in his paper titled “Reforms in the Nigerian Tax System from 1938 to date-Challenges and Prospects held in Lagos over the weekend, said that Nigeria was yet to have a perfect tax system.

Said he: “As a matter of fact no country in the whole world can boast of having a perfect tax system. This explains why the developed countries in Europe and USA always ensure that their tax laws are reviewed yearly for amendments and additions to existing laws.”

Speaking on the challenges in the reforms of Nigerian tax system, he said that willingness of government to regard taxation as a tool for regulating the economy, raise revenue for the provision social services include health delivery, education, security of lives and prosperity, closing the gap between the rich and the poor through indirect taxation.

Part of the challenges. He said are provision of adequate infra-

structure for effective tax administration and manpower development, information technology, monitoring of performance and motivating staff to put in their best, reducing level of corruption to the barest minimum, tax evasion as opposed to tax consultants to train staff and government delay in implementing recommendations following periodical review of the tax system.

On the prospects of tax administration, he explained that as the nation develops, taxation will become more complex because of the removal of trade barriers among nations thereby increasing cross border business transactions and the need for Nigeria to embrace International Financial System (IFS).

Moreso, he hinted that there is an urgent need for Nigeria to evolve a tax system that would capture the e-commerce for which countries in Europe and Asia are still looking for solution, adding there was need for Nigerian administrator to watch what other countries are doing this area.

According to him, Government should set up a study group including CITN to brainstorm and come up with some recommendations.

LG redefines cleaning experience with stand alone robot

By WOLE BALOGUN

H

ome cleaning has now been made very easy with the introduction into the Nigerian market of LG’s Hom-Bot vacuum cleaner. LG Electronics, a global leader in consumer electronics and home appliances, introduced the unique product as part of its commitment to identifying with the needs of consumers.

Officially launched recently in Lagos, the LG Hom-Bot vacuum cleaner was developed to enable householders who feel the need to have a cleaner home experience “a new level of clean.”

LG Hom-Bot vacuum cleaner uses advanced technology in cleaning of floors independently, allowing people to focus on things that matter most.

With its ultra-quiet design, the LG Hom-Bot vacuum cleaner operates at just 60 decibels, making it possible for users to work, watch TV or chat on the phone. Owing to its slim profile, it can easily vacuum under beds, tables, chairs, sofas and more.

The LG Hom-Bot comes with a smart 2-way camera.

The dual cameras located on

the top and below the robot enables a faster and smarter cleaning process. The docking style charger with auto charging function shows battery and timer settings for hassle-free charging.

The slim design of the 90mm tall LG Hom -Bot vacuum cleaner enables it to fit under furniture and between sofa cushions in order to clean hard to reach points in any home.

Using the Camera, it can detect how to get around the obstacle to clean the other side.

The Auto Cell-by-Cell mode is for areas with more obstacles, such as Lounge rooms, Dining rooms while the normal mode is for uncluttered areas where there is room for maneuvering as the appliance navigates in a straight line.

Speaking at the event, the Marketing Director, Home Appliances, LG Electronics, Mr. Hyunwoo Jung, said: ‘the LG Hom-Bot vacuum cleaner has come to solve the cleaning problem experienced by homes and businesses in Nigeria. This asthma and allergy certified product is portable and suitable for every floor type.’

NEWS Tuesday, October 2, 2012 DAILY SUN 59

SUN SPORTS

NEWS

2013 Nations Cup qualifier in Calabar

Eagles camp bubbles I

t was a mixed feeling in Abuja yesterday morning when the national team, Super Eagles, resumed training for the October 13 duel against the Lone Star of Liberia in Calabar.

As expected, all the players invited save for the Sunshine Stars duo of Izu Azuka and Solomon Kwambe, beat the Sunday evening deadline and were part of the training session at the training pitch of the Abuja National Stadium.

“They have special permission to stay away for now”, declared Head Coach, Stephen Keshi, adding that the Sunshine Stars duo and their team mates are playing hosts to the Egyptian giants, Al Ahly Nationale, this weekend in the semi-finals of the CAF Champions League.

The not too good news, however, is that midfield ace, Gabriel Reuben and his Kano Pillars teammate, Papa Idris, are yet to recover well enough to be part of the team that will confront Liberia on October 13. Reuben picked a groin injury during the finals of the Federations Cup in Lagos, while Idris has been nursing a nagging knee injury, which has slowed down the usually pacy central defender.

After Monday morning training, Keshi and his crew had a lengthy meeting after which it was decided that the

21 players train, Reuben, Idris pick injuries two players should be excused, going by the crucial nature of the game at hand. They have since left camp and would be replaced

by Heartland’s Kalu Orji and Stanley Okoronkwo of Sharks FC of Port Harcourt. It was a painful decision to let the two players go, but we have to look at the future

of the players and the fact that we will need the two of them at the South Africa 2013 Nations Cup, that is why we have said we should give them more time to go and get themselves healed. After the game against Liberia, they should be back in the team, Keshi

explained.

Meanwhile, the coach has again insisted that there will be no partiality in selection of players who are home-based and those based abroad to face Liberia on October 13 in Calabar.

“I know that 15 players are

•The Flamingoes jubilating during Nigeria’s Independence Day celebration in Baku, Azerbaijan, yesterday.

coming from Europe, but we already have 21 of you here, what we expect is that you go out there and prove yourself during training and leave the rest to me. No matter how fantastic players are in Europe and in their clubsides, they have to come here to prove that they are good enough to start and if those of you that are here show that you are better, you will start against Liberia, Keshi told the players at the resumed training of the team in Abuja yesterday.

He warned that those who fail to measure up will be immediately dropped because of the seriousness of the game at hand. He, however, assured the players that there would be no sentiments in the selection of players. Prove here on the pitch that you want to play and you will be there on October 13, he assured.

As if heeding Keshi’s call, newcomers, Bassey Ezekiel and Brendon Ogbu shone like a million stars in Monday’s opening training. Central defender, Kingsley Udoh, was also in his elements same for Ohanduku Ogbu. However, it was Ezekiel who was the star of the opening day that was superintended by Keshi and his four assistants.

The team continues training today with two sessions at the Training Pitch of the Abuja National Stadium.

Governor’s Cup: Nina, Kucova lead world stars to Lagos

By CHIMAOBI UCHENDU

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here is no doubt that the 12th Lagos Governor’s Cup Tennis Championship will be keenly contested judging from the quality of players who have registered for the Etisalat Nigeria and FCMB sponsored ITF tennis championship in Nigeria.

Nina Bratchikova of Russia, who reached the second round of the 2012 Australian Open, is one of the top female tennis players expected to hit Lagos for the Governor’s Cup, which will hold from 13-27 October at the Lagos Lawn Tennis, Onikan, Lagos.

Nina, ranked 93 in the world, has been a past winner of the Governor’s Cup and she is coming to fight it out for the $50,000 prize money for the women’s event with other Governor’s Cup regular faces such as Kristina Kucova of Slovakia (269), Germany’s Anne Schaefer (294), Swiss Conny Perrin, Romania’s Laura-loana Andrei (330), Melanie Klaffner of Austria (384, Karolina Nowak of

Germany, Italy’s Lara Rafful, Agnes Szatmari and Ester Masuri.

Some of the Nigerian ladies who have registered for the competition included Fatimah Abinu, Christie Agugbom, Chinenye Ndidi Izuogu, Blessing Samuel, Blessing Anuna and Osariemen Airhumwunde.

Laurent Rochette from France, who has been a regular face in

Lagos, is leading the pack in the men’s category. He is ranked number 203 in the world. Others regular players coming for the championship are past winner, Kamil Capkovic, from Slovakia (255), Indian Ranjeet Virali-Murugesan (452), Vijayant Malik of India (475), South Africa Ruan Roelofse (489).

Some of Nigeria male players

who have registered for the tourney are: Shehu Lawal (1406), Candy Idoko (1669) Clifford Enosoregbe (1669), Onyeka Mbanu (1669), Kehinde Alade Destiny Ford Da Silva, Monday Igbinovia, Samuel Omoile, Ganiyu Yussuf, Pekun Akingbde, Sunday Igbinovia, Omotayo Kaseem Rasaki, Sanni Adamu and Bolaji Olawepo.

Players from 55 countries have

signified their interest to feature in this year’s competition. They include USA, Spain, France, Russia, Poland, South Africa, Romania, Slovakia, Slovania, Ukraine, Italy Czech, Bulgaria, Sweden, Denmark, Britain, Ireland, Bulgaria, Zimbabwe, Cameroon, Ghana, Omar, Pakistan, Syria, Tunisia and a host of others.

Saraki wants crises in NPL resolved Scholysser wins 16th Nigeria Cup

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he proprietor of ABS Football Club, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, has called on sports authorities to resolve the crises in NPL. Dr. Saraki, the former governor of Kwara State, now a senator representing Kwara Central Senatorial District in the National Assembly, speaking in Abuja last weekend, remarked: “Most of the people managing our league do not have what it takes to run football today. The standard of managers and administrators of our league is very low”.

Saraki posits that football and sports generally thrive on credibility. ‘’ The moment fans know the result

before a match and can predict what will happen, it becomes uninteresting and a huge turnoff.

As a club owner, I crave a league that is credible, where there is fairness for all stakeholders, I want to watch the players display their best talent in fun- like and entertaining atmosphere, I want to see our players train with the best facilities in the world, I want funds invested or sourced through sponsorships go into developing and promotion of the game and not into private pockets.

I want a league where the administrators not only display perfect understanding of the rules governing but also an application of the rules without fear or favour.”

A

golf tournament tagged: Nigeria Cup, to celebrate Nigeria’s 52nd Independence anniversary, was rounded off last weekend at the Golf Section of Ikoyi Club 1938, Lagos.

After a keenly contested 16th editon of the Nigeria Cup, a foreign handicap, 21, player, Joachim Scholtysser, won the competition with 71 net.

He was rewarded with a giant trophy and a business class ticket to travel to Europe, courtesy of Lithuansa Airline.

In the results made available to the media, Bonny Obieze was second with 74 net, Fischer was third with 74 on count back, while Tayo Babalakin was fourth with 75 net. Evenly Oyome, who had earlier won both the Longest Drive Hole and the Nearest to the Pin Hole, was declared winner of the ladies tournament. Lateef Lasis won the pro tourmament.

Peter Eben-Spiff was Gross winner with 76 gross followed by Christopher Obije (80) and Tim Ayomike (81). Others winners included Dapo Akande, Uyi Akpata and Femi Olutowobi. The organisers gave series of items to the winners, which included water dispenser, micro wave oven and freezer.

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DAILY SUN

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

SUN SPORTS

NEWS

Winners emerge at SportsDay 4th anniversary

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r Olorunfemi Tosin Richard, has emerged as the winner of the star prize of SportsDay’s 4th anniversary promo held at the office corporate headquarters of the organisation, on Gbemisola Street, Ikeja, Lagos on Monday, October 1st, 2012.

The event, which witnessed a large turnout of readers and top shots in Sports Journalism, saw Mr Richard of Musa Adewonkun Street, Ojota, Lagos clinching Lifan Motor Bike, as Sholaja Oladele, of No. 8 Fadeyi Street Shomolu, Lagos grabbed the second price of LCD TV 18 inches Flat Screen, while Adekanmi Adetayo of No. 52 Unity Avenue, Agbado, Lagos took the third prize of a Blackberry Bold 2 Phone.

The occasion, which was chaired by the General Manager of SuperSport, Felix Awogu and Bimbo Adeola of Mega Sports.

The editor thanked the readers for their patronage and promised that next edition of the promo would be bigger and fascinating as “it is the only way of giving something back to the readers, who have sustained us in the market in the last four years in spite of the hostile economic situation in the country.” He added that SportsDay will continue to wax stronger in the market promising the readers an ever juicy paper that has been the pride of Nigerian sports lovers.

Fergie drop Giggs, Scholes out of CFR trip S

ir Alex Ferguson has left experienced midfield trio, Paul Scholes, Ryan Giggs and Michael Carrick, out Manchester United’s squad for its Champions League clash with CFR Cluj today.

And the Red Devils, who suffered a shock 3-2 home defeat the hands of Tottenham in the Premier League on Saturday evening, have named several

youngsters in their 21-man travelling party. able despite taking a knock in the closing Carrick’s goal ensured Ferguson’s side stages against Spurs, with Nemanja Vidic, beat Galatasaray 1-0 in its opening Group H Chris Smalling and Phil Jones all remaining encounter and it will be keen to build on on the sidelines through injury. that success in Romania today evening, Evans and Rio Ferdinand are with their opponents currently top of expected to be paired in the the standings after a 2-0 success centre of defence, while away to Braga.

Michael Keane and Scott There was some good news for Wootton have been Ferguson with Jonny Evans availincluded as cover.

Antonio Valencia (ankle) and Ashley Young (knee) will not feature, meaning Darren Fletcher, Jesse Lingard, Nick Powell and Ryan Tunnicliffe are among Ferguson’s midfield options.

Juve stake unbeaten run against Shakhtar S

erie A champions, Juventus, will be looking to continue their impressive unbeaten streak when they host Champions League opponents, Shakhtar Donetsk today.

The Ukrainians come to Turin boasting a 13-game winning streak in all competitions having beaten Danish side, FC Nordsjaelland 2–0 at home to go top of Group E two weeks ago.

Juve centre-back, Giorgio Chiellini, says they won’t be taking the visitors lightly.

“Shakhtar are a strong side and also underestimated. I don’t think we were lucky to have drawn them in our group,” said Chiellini.

“We want to beat them but we also respect them because they have several Brazilian players, who could play in the big clubs in Europe.”

Juventus fans, however, will be confident the Turin giants can maintain their purple patch.

While Juve Antonio Conte continues to serve a 10-month touchline ban for his implication in a sportsbetting affair while coach of Siena, his caretaker coach, Massimo Carrera is doing a fine

job at the helm.

Under Carrera, Juve have extended their impressive unbeaten streak to 45 games, going back to a defeat against Parma in May 2011.

The only team so far able to keep pace with the Old Lady of Turin in Italy’s Serie A is Napoli, who are also unbeaten after six games and sit second on 16 points.

On Saturday, Juve underlined their title credentials with a 4–1 thrashing of Roma.

As well as picking up the points, Carrera and Conte were buoyed by the return to form of midfield maestro, Andrea Pirlo, who opened the scoring in the 11th minute with a sumptuous free kick.

Arturo Vidal, who scored on his Champions League debut when Juve held Chelsea 2–2 at Stamford Bridge, made it 2–0 in the 16th minute from the penalty spot.

•Giggs

No messing!

•Euro stars party as they win Ryder Cup

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eam Europe was in the mood for a well-deserved party after seeing off the Americans to keep hold on the Ryder Cup.

•Buffon

Jose Maria Olazabal’s troops came through after a remarkable Sunday session at Medinah - winning eight of the 12 singles matches.

Luke Donald went out first and made the perfect start against Bubba Watson. And after his teammates followed him in with big performances, the Englishman tweeted: ‘What a day, what a week, what a comeback. Words can’t express the emotions of the last few hours.

Proud of everyone on Team Europe.

Now time to party.’

Donald’s fellow countryman Justin Rose, who beat Phil Mickelson with a storming finish to his round, was also ready to let his hair down.

He said: ‘No messing tonight,’ before tweeting a picture of some champagne bottles with the players’ names on them.

Ian Poulter was the main man for Europe, winning all four of his matches as he carried on his love affair with the Ryder Cup and took his overall record to 12 wins and three defeats.

Poulter was pictured enjoying himself on Sunday night with a

drink in one hand and the famous trophy in the other.

Lee Westwood paid tribute to Poulter as he joked: ‘We have actually revised the qualification for next time. It’s nine (qualifying) spots, two picks and Poults. It’s the Poults clause.’

It was Martin Kaymer who sparked the celebrations when he won the decisive 14th point for Europe in his match with Steve Stricker. Kaymer kept his nerve to hole from six feet and secure the win one up.

The German was also keen to be pictured with the prize after playing his part in the success and Rose

tweeted a snap of him with caddie, Craig Connelly.

The day started in dramatic fashion with Rory McIlroy almost missing his tee time.

The world No 1 checked his time on a phone app that was set to Eastern rather than Central time, which is an hour different.

He made it to the course in the nick of time thanks to a police escort, arriving 10 minutes early to practise a few putts, find his shoes and eat at an energy bar as a makeshift breakfast.

DAILY SUN Tuesday, October 2, 2012

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DAILY SUN

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

OFFSIDE Musing with

DAILY SUN 63

Okey Ndibe kndibe@yahoo.com; okeyndibe@gmail.com

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don’t know of a single African head of state, who made a memorable speech during last week’s United Nations General Assembly. No African leader - and certainly not President Goodluck Jonathan - outlined a bold programme for tackling the menace of poverty or the rampant violence that is, in part, a by-product of deepening destitution. Yet, African delegates to the annual UN talkfest distinguished themselves in one department: living large.

A New York affiliate of NBC, one of America’s three major networks, highlighted the shame of African delegates, living it up in New York City even as most of their citizens groan under the weight of poverty. Rather than sum up or paraphrase, I reproduce below the text of the report.

As diplomats congregate for the United Nations General Assembly, delegations from some of the poorest countries in the world are spending extravagantly in New York City while their homelands struggle, NBC 4 New York’s I-Team has discovered.

“The lavish spending is just endemic of autocratic politics as a whole,” said Alastair Smith, a politics professor from New York University and co-author of “The Diplomat’s Handbook.”

He believes the U.N.’s Manhattan address has become a distraction from the intended work of the General Assembly.

“They are here for the shopping, the food the wine, the dining. If it was in a less attractive place, I’m sure fewer people would want to come as hangers-on,” said Smith.

On Monday, I-Team cameras found several visitors with the U.N. delegation from Swaziland walking out of high-end retailer Bergdorf Goodman. The women had Bergdorf Goodman shopping bags, though they said the items inside were just gifts.

According to U.N. data, nearly 70 percent of Swazi people survive on less than $2 a day.

The nation has one of the highest AIDS rates: 18 percent of the population is HIV positive.

Despite those struggles back home, numerous members of the Swaziland U.N. entourage are staying at the luxury Mandarin Oriental Hotel, the I-Team has learned.

Also staying at the Mandarin Oriental were members of the delegation from Togo.

According to one U.N. report, 2.4 million Togolese citizens live on less than $1.25 a day.

Diplomats from Gabon were staying at the Plaza Hotel, where rooms go for a $1,000 to $15,000 a night.

Nigeria’s delegation is keeping five vehicles parked outside the Pierre Hotel where the cheapest room is about $800 a night – or roughly what most Nigerians earn in two years.

At the Waldorf-Astoria, where rooms are between $800 and $9,000 a night, the I-Team found the delegation from Mali, a country where 4.6 million people are battling starvation. A recent U.N. report found Mali is the third poorest nation in the world with a poverty rate near 87 percent.

To be fair, not every poor nation spent so much for hotel accommodations: Members of the Tanzania delegation were found staying at a DoubleTree hotel in Midtown.

Although it may be unseemly for diplomats from poor countries to live ostentatiously during their stays in Manhattan, advocates for business point out there is an undeniable upside to much of the diplomatic extravagance – the boon for New York City’s local economy.

“I don’t think it is really up to us to moderate the type of spending that comes from other countries. That’s their business,” said Nancy Ploeger, president of the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce. “What I’m concerned with is the economic impact on this city. I like the money. I want the money!”

None of the permanent missions to the UN from Togo, Swaziland, Gabon, Mali or

Poor, living large

•Jonathan Nigeria returned calls or emails relating to this story.

Nonprofits that monitor developing nations are also becoming increasingly sensitive to the issue of third world rulers spending lavishly abroad.

The group “100 Reporters” is actually holding a contest asking New Yorkers to snap photos of UN diplomats spending ostentatiously.

By one estimate, the ruling classes of thirdworld nations divert as much as $1 trillion from their developing economies to spend and invest the funds in the U.S. and other Western nations.

“The real underlying motivation for the movement of so much money out of developing countries is the hidden accumulation of wealth,” said Raymond Baker, executive director of Global Financial Integrity, a nonprofit watchdog that monitors capital flows into and out of impoverished countries.

“This is about getting rich secretly and not having to distribute those funds locally,” Baker said.

The report simply underscores why Nigeria and most of Africa’s 54 countries are in

he spent time elaborating on his extraordinary knowledge of Benzes. The rest of us from Nigeria felt ashamed. After the bureaucrat had left, one of the American professors turned to us. A derisive expression on his face, he exclaimed, “What a guy! He knows everything about a German-designed luxury car!”

It all boils down to a deep inferiority complex. When the privileged classes from Africa are let loose on the world’s big cities – whether it’s Paris, London, New York, Toronto, Tokyo, Hong Kong, or Frankfurt – they light up with child-like excitement. They have arrived, they think. They feel themselves set apart from their fellow citizens’ grim experience. They want to stay in the priciest hotels and eat at the most expensive restaurants.

They go on a shopping binge, hitting the most exclusive shops.

In all that infantile glee, they forget – these sorry characters – that the cities whose flamboyance, dazzle or fashionable air they relish were conceived, designed and built by men and women like themselves. Incapable of dreaming beyond their greed, hampered by their mental enslavement, they are content to shop as if there would be no tomorrow. They never pause for a moment to consider that their shopping is often underwritten by massive looting. And that the resources they loot and transfer to Europe, America and Asia account for the poverty that crushes millions of their fellow citizens.

The wife of Nigeria’s president is in a hospital in Germany recovering from we know not what. Yet, has it occurred to Mr. Jonathan that the late Ghanaian president, John Atta Mills, was not flown abroad for treatment?

Has his wife’s illness instructed Mr. Jonathan to set out a plan to revamp healthcare in Nigeria – to offer other ailing Nigerians access to meaningful care? That remains to be seen.

There are many Malians, Swazis, Togolese and Nigerians living in New York City. Why didn’t they come out to protest the senseless profligacy of their diplomats? Why must it take an American television network to expose the folly of our “leaders” who waste the continent’s scarce funds to live it up?

In the words of the Ghanaian novelist Ayi Kwei Armah, why are we so blest?

wretched shape. And why it’s so easy for American, Asian and European economies to exploit Africans. Notice the tone of indifference and naked self-interest in the statement

by Ms. Ploeger of the New York Chamber of Commerce. The woman knows what’s good for her city; she doesn’t give a hoot if contemptible fools from Africa steal food from the lips of their disease-ravaged, impoverished masses to live like emperors in her city.

She’s not ashamed to sing, “Come, wretched fools, to my glitzy city – and be parted from your cash!”

When Nigerian workers ask for modest increases in minimum wage, their president, governors and legislators intone that Nigeria is a poor country. When we ask that fuel subsidies be retained, World Bank-accredited government officials warn that we’re virtually broke. If we ask for improvements in infrastructure, we are told that the funds are not there.

But the same excuse-making officials must have presidential jets. They must fly first class to every corner of the globe to attend every conference, consequential or not. We must not tamper with their access to security votes and constituency allowance. If we catch them laundering money, we must never shout thief, thief; we must never interrupt their embezzling activities because the constitution grants them immunity from prosecution.

And so goes the charade. Whether at home or traveling abroad, many members of Africa’s ruling elite come across as tragic figures. I believe it was the late Ken Saro-Wiwa who once berated his fellows as conspicuous consumers of other people’s ideas and products.

In the late 1990s, a senior Nigerian bureaucrat visiting the US was proud to boast that, by looking at the headlights of any Mercedes Benz car, he was able to tell the car’s year and model. He revealed this great prowess of his to a company that included two Caucasian American academics, their Nigerian colleague, and me. In unison, the two Americans said, “Amazing!” The visiting fool thought he had impressed the heck out of them – and so Please follow me on twitter @ okeyndibe

Pilgrimage: Effective tool for spiritual, moral rebirth –Envoy

By ADEWALE SANYAOLU

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he Nigerian Ambassador to Greece, His Excellency Ambassador Ayodele Ayodeji, has described Christian pilgrimage as a tool for spiritual and moral transformation, adding that the concept remained a wonderful development in the history of the country.

The Ambassador made this assertion in Athens, Greece, while playing host to the Chairman of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), Executive Secretary and Federal Commissioners who paid him a courtesy visit in his office in Athens.

He commended NCPC for the good work the Commission was doing to reposition pilgrimage in Nigeria. He stated, “I am happy you have developed it. I must actually appreciate the good work the Commission is doing.”

He further re-affirmed that he was pleased to hear that the Commission was exploring pilgrimage as a tool for spiritual and moral transformation. He affirmed, “this is a laudable effort, the more this can go down, the better so that it does not become an elitist benefit.’”

He averred that the need to allow the values of discipline and honesty to prevail in our society, especially among the young generation, is imperative, considering the fact that his own

Archbishop Okoh told Ambassador Ayodeji generation was brought up with proper values.

Earlier, the Executive Secretary, Mr. John that the Commission was exploring more posKennedy Opara, intimated the Ambassador that sibilities to see how pilgrimage could be made the Commission had expanded the scope of pil- a tool for change for, according to him, “our grimage to Rome and Greece. He disclosed that country needs change,’’ adding that “we are the Commission met with Chairmen and exploring spiritual and moral transformation of Secretaries of States Christian Pilgrim Welfare the entire pilgrimage exercise.”

Boards in Israel on the evaluation of the state of The Chairman, who is also the Primate of the readiness for the 2012 pilgrimage exercise.

Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, He explained that the Commission chose thanked the Ambassador and his staff for the Greece as one of the religious destinations to be warm reception accorded the NCPC delegation. visited by Nigerian Pilgrims based on the work that Saint Paul did. He said the mission of the Commission to Athens was a fact finding one. Opara also used the opportunity offered by the courtesy visit to congratulate the Ambassador on his appointment. His words: “We thank God for giving you this privilege of being the Ambassador at this time.’’

The NCPC scribe revealed to his host that on October 25, 2012, the Commission would flag off the airlift of intending pilgrims to the Holy Land in line with the directives of the president.

In his remarks, the Chairman of NCPC, Archbishop Nicholas Okoh, equally con- R-L: Chairman, Nigeria Christian Pilgrims gratulated the envoy on his appointment, Commission (NCPC), Archbishop Nicholas stressing that it was a privilege to be an Okoh, Executive Secretary, Mr. John Ambassador because it was for men and Kennedy, after signing the 2012 pilgrimage agreement in Israel. women of very high character.

Okey Ndibe writes: “Poor, living large” Page 63

N150 TUESDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2012 *VOL.7 NO. 2464

Akpabio and The Beggar’s Parable

DIMGBA IGWE

SIDEVIEW

08055001932 dimgbaigwe2011@gmail.com

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is only about 19 percent but in Akwa Ibom State, it is about 87 percent!

Before you have time to interrogate his statistics, Akpabio sends everyone reeling with his rationalization of why his government puts so much premium on electricity generation and street lights. “What light does is that it pursues witchcraft,” or drives away witches.

In a sense, this is both literal and spiritual metaphor. Darkness prevails only because there is no light, as the Bible affirms. Light of course, is a metaphor for truth, the facts or knowledge.

Africa is a dark continent not because our people are dark-skinned but because the low level of literacy ensures that ignorance is enthroned in the land, even in our high places.

Witches are born wherever knowledge is obscured. The black man’s witchcraft is more potent than the white man’s perhaps, only because science has narrowed down the realm of the unknown in their territory. Education then is the greatest tranquilizer of witches!

Akwa Ibom is at times, described as the headquarters of witchcraft in Africa. But this is not so much a literal fact, as the prevalence of myths and mysticism of witchcraft in the consciousness and popular imagination of the people. The wiry old woman who survives despite the absence of social security support either from the state or extended family obviously has to be witch! In her acute vulnerability, confessing to witchcraft—or whatever—in the face of onslaughts from the spiritual mumbo-jumbo of so-called deliverance merchants that abound in the state, becomes a fait accompli. The vulnerable children of the weak and poor or even orphans become easily the next easy targets, not surprisingly because there is no one to defend them against easy suspicion and relentless torture from frustrated guardians or deliverance quacks who merchandise spiritual things for their own survival.

If people die from stroke or heart failure in the face of endemic poor medical facilities, it is surely because the witches are behind it, and there are no lack of ignorant and frightened vulnerable victims who’d confess to drinking their blood.

As the popular parlance of the Akwa Ibom people goes, such sudden deaths occur because the witches had “slapped” them!

In real demonology, it is perhaps, possible that there are territorial spirits that prevail in the area, manifesting in the context of elemental spirits called witches and wizards, but even if that be

f the Akwa Ibom State Governor, Godswill Akpabio, had not been a governor and a lawyer, perhaps, he would have done well as a comedian. But even from his exalted office, he still cannot resist the lure of the theatrical. At state functions and public events, he gets his audience reeling in laughter not only by his oratory but by the powerful humour he injects into his speeches to keep people under the spell of his voice.

The last convention of the Nigerian Guild of Editors which his state hosted was another platform for Akpabio to seize the audience to sell his numerous achievements. But before then, he had warned that the occasion was not one of speech-making, not one of advertising his achievements, seeing that such achievements are so numerous that even the blind can see them, the deaf can hear about them and the dumb can talk about them.

According to the visiting Senate President David Mark who declared the Guild of Editors conference open with a theme, Nigerian Editor and National Security, Akpabio spoke for 20 minutes, but spent 15 of such minutes recounting his achievements, all the same. Well, do you blame him? As the saying goes, if you have them, flaunt them.

Akpabio has something to sell; so many state governors really have nothing concrete to sell beyond hunting for real and imaginary enemies who want to pull them down.

After all, in the last five years, Akpabio states, “God’s will (Godswill Akabio, remember!) has been done in Akwa Ibom State!”

Evidence? He listed the new Uyo Airport, urban road networks, dualisation of roads, overhead bridge, an underground road tunnel, street lights, etc. “Even the power you have now comes from our 191-megawatt power plant,” he said, carefully omitting the fact that despite the power plant, light in the state capital goes on and off so rapidly that you wonder if some kids are playing with the switches.

Perhaps, this has got to do more with distribution problems rather than power generation per se.

Even then, there is no stopping the super salesman of Uyo. He throws in some amazing statistics to score his points, fair or foul. The total electricity in Africa is only about 5 percent; the total electricity availability in Nigeria •Akpabio

so, knowledge, spiritual knowledge, plus education and economic emancipation are the best cures. Who want to dance in dark and filthy covens when they could be working in air-conditioned offices or running their own lives and homes in comfort?

The great salesman of Uyo is still speaking. In Akwa Ubom—I suppose he meant to say, the state capital, Uyo—the urban road networks are so good that Akpabio said there is zero tolerance for potholes. He describes it as a “zero-pothole” policy and threw a challenge at anyone visiting the state capital to fish out any pothole in the state roads and report to him. As Senate President David Mark later pointed out, it was not the first time Akpabio was staking that claim and on one occasion, Mark actually spotted a pothole in the outskirts of Uyo, informed Akpabio accordingly and he dispatched his commissioner of works immediately to fix it.

“But it was not really a pothole,” Akpabio claimed, just a dent on the road. Mark saw a pothole, Akpabio saw a dent and fixed it—no victor, no vanquished!

“As you move around,” Akpabio was still waxing strong, “you will notice that you will not see a single house girl to rent because all of them are now in school.” It was his way of advertising his government’s law that makes non-education of your kids illegal. Even though as I report, several security men in my neighbourhood are from Akwa Ibom, it matters that at least in future, Akpabio is reducing the supply of uneducated domestic servants from his state.

This then brings us to the beggar’s parable poignantly narrated by Akpabio. An artist decided to do a portrait of a popular beggar dressed in tattered outfit, looking haggard, unkempt and filthy. The artist took his time in painting the portrait. But surprisingly, when he finished, what came out was the portrait of a healthy, good looking beggar dressed in good garment. Yet, there was no mistaking the fact that it was the beggar that was in the portrait, only looking normal, not deformed.

Stunned by his new appearance, the beggar noted that this is truly his portrait, but how come he is looking so good in the portrait and so ugly in real life?

“That is the man that I see in you,” the artist replied.

The beggar contemplated this statement for a while. “Well, if this is the man you see in me, then this is the man that I am going to become.”

It is Akpabio’s powerful way of restating the old argument about development journalism. “If Nigerian editors can paint a good picture of Nigeria, then that is the Nigeria that we are going to become.”

I wish it was that simple, that our problem is merely a matter of faith calling into being the things that be not as though they were. But at times, Nigeria’s problem of leadership seems to defy all understanding. For sure, we love this nation; for sure, this is a great nation with great potentials, but what do we do with all the bad guys who seem so determined to ruin the land?

The occasion of our 52nd independence anniversary is another opportunity to reflect on the Nigerian question and pray that God will intervene so that light will sweep over the land and disperse the darkness in all the high places in the land, especially in the corridors of power where the nation is reeling under the thrall of bad guys.

Win World Cup, get plots of land in Abuja … NFF, Senators promise Flamingoes

N

ational Under-17 women’s team, the Flamingoes, celebrated Nigeria’s Independence Day by having lunch with NFF Board members, Senators, House of Rep. Members and other notable Nigerians, who came to mark the day with the team.

Speaking on behalf of the NFF’s President, 1st Vice President, Chief Mike Okeke Umeh said: “Today is our Independence Day and we thought it wise to come and celebrate with you girls. On behalf of the President, Alhaji Aminu Maigari, I rejoice with you for qualifying for the quarterfinals and we know we will rejoice more when you qualify for the semis.”

Similarly, NFF board member, High Chief Emeka Inyama said he was pleased to be celebrating Independence Day with the national team.

“There is no better way to celebrate the Independence Day than with you girls. It is your day and we are here to celebrate it with you. We are here to honour you on this special day,” he said.

Senator Mudashiru also learnt his voice by saying he is happy to be with the girls.

“I am happy to be present here celebrating our Independence and congratulate you for the good job you have been doing here in Azerbaijan”.

Member, House of Reps, Hon. Zaphaniah Jiseloh, said he was so proud to be eating lunch with the national team and promised he would persuade President Jonathan to reward the team with lands if they lift the trophy.

“I’m so proud to be eating lunch with the national team and promised the team would be rewarded with lands if they lift the trophy with our national team on our Independence. I promise you that when you girls eventually win the trophy, we will ask Mr. President Goodluck Jonathan to honour you girls with plots of land.”

In her response, Captain of the team, Victoria Aidelomon, thanked the dignitaries for making the Independence Day a special one for the team.

“We are happy and feel highly honoured celebrating Independence with our fathers and mothers. Your presence here today has really lifted our spirit. The girls and I are confident that we will defeat France and by God’s grace, eventually lift the trophy”.

In her closing speech, Women League Chairman and NFF board member, Dilichukwu Onyedinma, thanked the girls for the progress they have made so far in Azerbaijan, while urging them to go ahead and beat France to progress to the semifinals.

Christian and Muslim prayers was also said for Nigeria and the team after the lunch.

•Adelomon

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Website: www.sunnewsonline.com •Printed simultaneously in Lagos, Aba & Abuja EDITOR: STEVE NWOSU