MONDAY 21TH SEPTEMBER 2020

CBN Investigates More Companies over Suspected FX Infractions Stallion Nigeria, Interswitch, Flour Mills, Promasidor Nigeria affected Obinna Chima In order to ensure that the country's forex resources are prudently managed and used for the importation of priority goods, the Central Bank of

Nigeria (CBN) has further beamed its searchlight on more bank customers and unauthorised FX dealers.

An anonymous source in one of the Deposit Money Banks (DMB) at the

weekend told THISDAY that CBN has requested for all accounts (both Naira and foreign currency) of over 100 suspected companies, who specialise in buying forex from certain unauthorised sources

without passing through the legitimate sources, thereby avoiding documentation and overheating the exchange rates.

CBN, he added, is also investigating the avenues through which

the companies source forex that they eventually sell to counterparties, who buy and repatriate the funds otherwise known as free funds.

Whereas CBN recognises that certain little payments

of sums below $10,000 could be made for travels, school/ boarding fees, subscription, fees, hospital bills among others with little or no Continued on page 9

NNPC to Unveil Successful Bidders for Pipeline Rehabilitation Q1, 2021... Page 8 Monday 21 September, 2020 Vol 25. No 9296. Price: N250

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Buhari, Babangida, Tinubu, Others Mourn Idris, Emir of Zaria...Page 5

Be Magnanimous, Buhari Urges Obaseki as PDP Routs APC in Edo My victory, triumph against godfatherism, says Edo gov APC rejects election results, to decide on next step Atiku, Saraki Tambuwal, others greet gov-elect Deji Elumoye, Omololu Ogunmade in Abuja, Nseobong Okon-Ekong, Chuks Okocha and Adibe Emenyonu in Benin In an unusual move, President

Muhammadu Buhari yesterday swiftly congratulated Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, who posted a resounding victory in last Saturday’s governorship election, trashing his main

WINNERS

challenger, Pastor Osagie IzeIyamu of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

For Obaseki’s party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), it was a spectacular rebound under its fire-spitting

National Chairman, Prince Uche Secondus, reclaiming a state it lost in 2012.

The outcome of the contest left APC, the ruling party at the centre, dumb-founded as PDP routed it in 13 of the 18

local government areas of the South-south state, returning the oil-rich region to its firm grip.

With the emphatic victory, PDP now controls the entire South-south states, including

Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Edo, Delta, and Rivers.

Obaseki was declared winner in the keenly contested election by the Chief Returning Continued on page 9

LOSERS

Obaseki

Secondus

Ize-Iyamu

Oshiomhole

Adamu

Yakubu

Tinubu

Mala-Buni

See Winners and Losers stories on pages 17-19

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Group News Editor Ejiofor Alike Email Ejiofor.Alike@thisdaylive.com, 08066066268

Buhari, Babangida, Tinubu, Others Mourn Idris, Emir of Zaria

Omololu Ogunmade in Abuja, Laleye Dipo in Minna, John Shiklam in Kaduna, Francis Sardauna in Katsina and Segun Awofadeji in Gombe

President Muhammadu Buhari; former Military President, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida (rtd); Governors Aminu Bello Masari of Katsina State, Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State, Sani Bello of Niger State; Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF); and National Leader of All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Bola Tinubu, yesterday expressed shock and grief over the death of Emir of Zazzau (Zaria), Alhaji Shehu Idris.

A statement by one of the president's media aide, Malam Garba Shehu, said the president sent a condolence message to Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, the government and people of Kaduna State over the emir's death.

"With the passing of Alhaji Shehu Idris, Nigeria has lost one of its longest-reigning traditional

monarchs whose contributions to the promotion of unity and peaceful coexistence among Nigerians cannot be forgotten for years to come. ''The Emir of Zazzau, who ascended to the throne in 1975, had used his long reign to serve his people with dedication and identified with their aspirations at all times," he was quoted as saying.

The statement added that Buhari prayed Allah to forgive the late Emir his sins and grant his family and subjects the fortitude to bear the loss.

Babangida and Niger State Governor, Bello, have also expressed sadness at the demise of Idris who died in Kaduna yesterday morning at the age of 84 years.

In separate condolence messages made available to journalists in Minna, both said the transition of the first class monarch has left a deep void that would be difficult to fill.

Babangida said: “For 45 years,

Relief as Health Workers Suspend Nationwide Strike Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja Health workers in the country under the aegis of the Joint Health Sector Union (JOHESU) yesterday suspended their nationwide industrial action, and are set to resume work today.

The decision to suspend their seven-day warning strike was reached at an expanded National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held yesterday.

In a statement issued yesterday evening by JOHESU's Chairman and President of the Medical and Health Workers' Union of Nigeria (MHWUN), Mr. Biobelemoye Josiah, the union said:" In line with the resolutions at the expanded NEC meeting held on Sunday, September 20, 2020, I hereby declare that the seven-day warning strike is suspended.

All our members are directed to resume work by Monday, September 21, 2020, while awaiting further directives."

Following its deadlocked meeting with the federal government, JOHESU had resolved to proceed with its strike with effect from midnight of Sunday, September 13, 2020.

This was the decisions reached after its expanded National Executive Council meeting held last Saturday.

JOHESU, had in a threeparagraph letter dated September 12, titled: ‘Re: Notice of 15-day ultimatum/ outcome of JOHESU expanded NEC meeting,’ said it would proceed on strike as nothing was achieved in the conciliatory meeting.

The memo sent to the Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Chris Ngige, was signed by JOHESU President, Biobelemoye Josiah; Secretary-General, Dr. Silas Adamu; President of Senior Staff Association of Universities Teaching Hospitals, Research Institutes, Dr. Benjamin Akintola; General Secretary, Nigerian Union of Allied Health Professionals, Martin Egbanubi, among others.

It read: “Recall that at the end of the meeting held in your office on Thursday, September 10, 2020, JOHESU demanded that the outcome of the meeting between JOHESU and the Federal Government be reported back to our expanded NEC meeting and give feedback to the Federal Government within 48 hours. “In the light of the above, the meeting of our expanded NEC was held today, Saturday, September 12, 2020. And at the end of the meeting, which was held both physically and virtually, it was unanimously agreed that since nothing concrete was achieved at the said meeting with the Federal Government, that the strike notice is still germane and alive. “Therefore, the 15-day ultimatum still subsists and with effect from midnight of Sunday, September 13, 2020, our members shall withdraw their services due to Federal Government’s inability to meet their demands.�

But in a counter directive, the federal government had directed the various unions in the health sector operating under by JOHESU to ignore the strike directive.

The Ministry of Labour and Employment had, in a statement, said it had “apprehended the dispute� with the conciliation initiated last Thursday, which is still ongoing.

The statement issued by the Deputy Director of Press and Public Relations in the ministry, Mr. Charles Akpan, had said going ahead with the action would be illegal. “This call for the withdrawal of services is clearly unnecessary as the federal government has demonstrated capacity in her amelioration of agelong challenges in the health sector and has overly shown commitment to the welfare of health workers by providing enough Personal Protective Equipment and boosting their morale while tackling the strange pandemic,� the statement said.

Idris was a pillar of our traditional institution, a bridge between people of various ethnicities and religions, and a powerful force for keeping Kaduna State so cosmopolitan.

"Indeed, his wisdom and integrity has been invaluable in advancing the growth and progress of our dear nation.

"As a beneficiary of his support and fatherly advice for many decades, the passing of this great man is a profound personal loss indeed."

Bello, in a condolence message, said he received the news of the demise of the frontline traditional ruler with shock, saying the passage of the monarch is a colossal loss to the northern region and Nigeria in general.

Bello, in the statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Ms. Mary Berje, described the deceased as “a leader, statesman, philanthropist, and a pillar that has, for decades, championed the course of peace, unity, and development of his domain, Kaduna State, and the country as a whole."

Former Governor of Kaduna

State, Senator Ahmed Makarfi, has also mourned Idris, who died at the 44 Army Referral Hospital in Kaduna.

In a statement issued yesterday in Kaduna, Makarfi described the late emir as a colossus whose death has created a vacuum that would be difficult to fill.

The statement signed by his spokesman, Mr. Mukhtar Sirajo, said the late Idris was a man of peace, who made so many sacrifices for the peace of his people and everybody.

Masari expressed profound sadness over the death of Idris, saying Nigeria had lost one of its most revered traditional giants.

Masari, in a statement by his Director-General, Media, Mr. Abdul Labaran, said the death of the leading monarch, whom he described as one of the last greats, was a devastating loss for Nigeria, coming at a time when the nation is buffeted by many threatening challenges.

He said: "The loss of His Royal Highness, the Emir of Zazzau at this material time is most devastating, because it has

come at a time when his vast experience, influence and global network of friends and associates are very much needed to help the nation navigate itself out of the current economic, security, and social woes buffeting it.�

Yahaya expressed sadness over the demise of Idris.

In a condolence message, he described the death of the traditional ruler as a huge national loss.

He said the late Emir was an iconic figure, legendary monarch and embodiment of humility, known for championing the course of peace, unity, and mutual understanding.

"We have indeed lost one of our finest and highly revered royal fathers in Nigeria; a patriot, statesman, and selfless royal father,� the governor said.

Tinubu said the passing of Emir of Zazzau marks the end of an era in Zazzau Emirate.

In a condolence message released yesterday in Lagos by his Media Office, Tinubu, described Idris as a detribalised Nigerian, who was committed to Nigeria’s

unity and progress.

He said the Emir would be deeply missed by those who knew or encountered him.

He said: “I’m saddened by the news of the passing on Sunday of the Emir of Zazzau, Alhaji Shehu Idris. “His passing marks the end of an era in Zazzau Emirate and indeed in the north. As the longest-reigning traditional monarch in the emirate and perhaps the north, Alhaji Idris ruled with dedication and distinction. He was extremely humble and unassuming, and a friend of all.�

Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) too expressed shock and sadness over the death of the emir.

In a statement issued yesterday in Kaduna, the spokesman of the forum, Mr. Emmanuel Yawe, said: "He ruled his emirate through a period of rapid political, economic, social changes and never lost his focus on his primary responsibility - the maintenance of peace and progress in his emirate."

A DAY WITH THE SULTAN...

Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa'ad Abubakar III (left), and Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Mr. Festus Keyamo (SAN), during his visit to the Sultan in Sokoto‌weekend

Akeredolu, Jegede Bicker over Arrest of Suspected Thugs James Sowole in Akure The candidate of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the October 10 election in Ondo State, Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, and his counterpart in the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Prof.

Eyitayo Jegede, yesterday bickered over the alleged arrest of some suspected thugs with ammunition at Ifon in Ose Local Government Area of the state, in a vehicle branded in colour of PDP and its candidate, Jegede.

Jegede and PDP have disowned the suspected political thugs, and also recalled an earlier alarm they had raised over an alleged plot by the ruling party to perpetrate crimes using materials branded in PDP colour.

Jegede was scheduled to make a stop at Ifon as part of his local government campaign tour.

The suspected political thugs were inside a Toyota Sienna bus

branded with Jegede's campaign pictures.

But the spokesman for Akeredolu Campaign Organisation, Mr. Olatunde Richard, said they were shocked and bewildered by the show of shame by the major opposition party in the state caught napping in a web of violence and thuggery.

Olatunde said it was a relief for the police to seize the sophisticated guns, live cartridges, and machetes which could have been used to cut the lives of the innocent people of the state short on the altar of politics.

According to him, "While we commend the police authority for its gallantry efforts at arresting these hoodlums, we condemn this act in strong terms and call for more investigation into PDP campaign activities.

"This is coming despite several appeals for politicians to allow peace reign before, during, and

after the governorship election, making one ask if PDP and thuggery are siamese twins. “This clearly attests to the fact that PDP, like the proverbial leopard, will never change its spots, with the party engrossed in the use of thuggery to curry electoral victory, even when the people have clearly rejected it.

"We wonder if PDP sees the election as a war or an electoral contest for the seat of the state governor.

"We insist that this does not only constitute danger to our democracy and credible electoral process, but the lives of people, that the party claims it is out to serve."

But in a swift reaction, Mr. Gbenga Akinmoyo of Jegede Campaign Organisation, in a statement, said the general public has been made aware of plans by the ruling APC to adorn political thugs in PDP branded materials to unleash

mayhem on itself and political gathering of other parties with the view of putting the blame on PDP. Akinmoyo alleged that an APC chieftain boasted of militancy, arms, and ammunition.

According to the statement, "The information of the arrest of some hoodlums in branded vehicles wearing PDP logo at Ifon in Ose LGA, whilst our campaign train is due to make a stop in the town is nothing but an attempt by APC to make good its evil plans.

"While appreciating the security agencies for their vigilance in averting needless mayhem, we urge the general public to remain focused and not fall for the antics of the ruling APC who are determined to draw us into unproductive arguments that can distract us from those issues that bother on the welfare of our people and failure of the APC government in addressing them."

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NNPC to Unveil Successful Bidders for Pipeline Rehabilitation Q1, 2021 Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) would in the first quarter of 2021 unveil the list of successful bidders among the 78 companies that submitted bids to rehabilitate its critical downstream pipelines, associated depots and terminal infrastructure.

The corporation, in a statement issued yesterday in Abuja, and signed by the Group General Manager, Group Public Affairs Division, Dr. Kennie Obateru, noted that the rehabilitation would be based on a Finance, Build, Operate and Transfer (BOT) model.

The statement quoted NNPC Group Managing Director, Mallam Mele Kyari, as saying at the virtual public bid opening at the weekend that the exercise was in fulfilment of the corporation's commitment to transparency and accountability. “This is not possible to achieve if we do not have the leadership disposition that is in support of transparency. I can confirm to all of you that it is the clear directive of Mr. President that this company must be accountable and must be transparent to its shareholders.

"We must take all necessary steps to make sure that our transactions are known to the citizens of this country, that we do things for the common good of all of us and that in doing our business, we must ensure integrity,� GMD stated.

He said, as an EITI partner company, the corporation must always disclose her transactions, contracting processes, selection of its partners, identities of partners and beneficial owners of the partners. “Nobody will cut corners, nobody will cheat the shareholders of this company and also this company will

ultimately deliver value to its shareholders,� Kyari vowed.

According to him, the BOT model had become imperative in the corporation’s journey to rehabilitate its downstream infrastructure, which over time had become vulnerable, lost value and integrity due to age and incessant vandalism.

He added: "Some of these assets are as old as 40 years and they are due for replacement and when you want to do a replacement of this scale, you do need a lot of resources.

"And we know that we require these assets so we decided that we bring in private partners who will fund these pipelines.

"They will construct it, they

will operate it with us and then ultimately they will fully recover their investment from the tariff which we will pay for using these pipelines and as soon as they recover their cost and their margin, they will hand over these assets back to us.�

Kyari said by the end of the first quarter of 2021, the final partners of the bid opening would be selected.

He assured the bidders that the portal which was deployed for the pre-qualification exercise was a time-tested technology that would not give room for any human indiscretion.

In his remarks, the DirectorGeneral of the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), Mr.

Chidi Izuwah, commended the leadership of the corporation for "driving a transparent bid" opening processes for the rehabilitation of the pipelines and other downstream infrastructure.

He noted that NNPC was showing to the world that things could be done correctly such that would yield value for Nigerians, saying the novel NNPC virtual public bid-opening exercise was in line with ICRC infrastructure revolution drive.

"You showed to the world that you're driving a totally transparent public-private partnership process in line with the infrastructure revolution of President Muhammadu Buhari.

"Today's public bid opening

for the rehabilitation of NNPC pipelines, depots/ terminal infrastructure is quite commendable.

"I commend the GMD, his team and NNPC Group for showing to the world that things can be done properly and in the best interest of the shareholders," Izuwah stated.

Earlier, the Chief Operating Officer, Downstream, Ms. Lawrencia Ndupu, who was represented by the Managing Director, Petroleum Products Marketing Company (PPMC), Mr. Musa Lawan, said the Nigerian Pipelines and Storage Company (NPSC) operates 5,120 lengths of pipelines.

She added that the pipelines traverse the entire country with

two coastal depots in Lagos and Calabar, assuring that the public bid opening processes was being done transparently.

NNPC General Manager, Supply Chain Management (SCM), Mrs. Sophia Mbakwe, said at the end of the submission of virtual bids, 78 companies submitted bids for the prequalification of rehabilitation of NNPC downstream critical pipelines, associated depots and terminal infrastructure.

Other external observers who witnessed the exercise were Bureau of Public Procurement, Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI), Civil Liberties Organisation and Centre for Transparency Watch (CTW).

THE KING’S BOYS...

L-R: Chairman, 2020 King's Week Planning Committee, Pastor Ituah Ighodalo; National Security Adviser, Maj. Gen. Babagana Monguno; Deputy President, King's College Old Boys' Association (KCOBA), Mr. Leke Oshunniyi; President, Alhaji Kashim Ibrahim-Imam; President, Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Mr. Olumide Akpata; and Principal, King's College Lagos, Mr. Andrew Agada, at KCOBA 111th Annual Founders' Day Lecture in Lagos‌weekend sunday adigun

Report: Stock Market Grows 71% in Nine Years Goddy Egene The market capitalisation of the Nigerian equities market has grown by 70.7 per cent or N5.594 trillion from N7.91 trillion to N13.51 trillion in the last nine years under Mr. Oscar Onyema as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) amidst challenging economic terrain, according to a report.

Onyema assumed office as CEO of the exchange in 2011 following the exit of Prof. Ndi Okereke-Onyiuke in 2010. The management of the exchange led

by Onyema had come in with lots of enthusiasm and prospects to upgrade the local equity market through the introduction of market makers; achieve $1 trillion market capitalisation by 2016, and bring in a framework to allow Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to gain access to the stock market.

But, in a special report titled: ‘NSE 10 years after a takeover: The good, the bad and undecided,’ Proshare, research, data, news and analysis services firm, said the stock market has had a difficult period since Onyema took over the running of NSE. However, despite the difficult period, the market capitalisation of equities, which is the value of

equities listed on the exchange rose from N7.91 trillion at the beginning of 2011 to N13.51 trillion at the end of 2019.

NSE All-Share Index (ASI) grew by a marginal 8.4 per cent in the same period, rising from 24,770.52 to 26,842.07.

In the nine years, the market recorded a decline in six years and appreciated in only three years.

It declined in 2011, gained in 2012 and 2013, but fell in 2014, 2015 and 2016. It recovered in 2017 only to decline again in 2018 and 2019. And so far the market has recorded a year-todate decline of 4.7 per cent.

Breaking down the performance of the market, Proshare said the stock market has had a difficult period between 2010 and now, noting that turnover velocity for equities dipped from 12.51 per cent in 2010 to 7.55 per cent in 2019, representing a decline of 4.96 per cent. “The reduction in velocity reflected a gradual rise in investor interest in public sector traded debt instruments such as treasury bills and treasury bonds and the gradual shift of local and foreign direct investors (FDIs) from equities to the fixed income market. “The swing explains why by 2019 the value of bond

capitalisation on NSE squared up with the size of its equity capitalisation even though the bond market was almost nonexistent in 2010,� it said.

Proshare disclosed that as of August 11, 2020, NSE bond market was at N15.83 trillion as against FMDQ market value of N30.19 trillion and the equity market value of N12.98 trillion. “A sour point in the 2010-2020 decade of market development has been the tumbling of newly listed equities. New equity issues slumped from 31 in 2010 to 17 in 2019. Despite the growth in trading activities on NSE in the last decade, corporations have been wary of raising fresh capital from the market and diluting existing shareholder interest by way of an Initial Public Offer (IPO) or by a Rights Offer (which would retain existing shareholder equity interest but increase the number of shares in issue). The stock market over the past decade has been sustained principally by foreign investor interest as the gradual weakening of the naira and the fall in equity prices has engineered hidden-value opportunities above those in competing frontier markets (FMs). The high trade-influence of foreign investors between 2010 and 2020 contrasted sharply with the heavy domestic investor participation in the market

between 2000 and 2009,� it added.

Proshare noted that over the years, Onyema has pushed for a stronger, deeper and broader local stock market. “The alumni of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) had no illusions about the challenges he would face in a market hamstrung by narrow asset classes and relatively low domestic liquidity, but he was optimistic that things could be made better,� the research firm said.

Proshare explained that the period between 2010 and 2015 saw heightened market awareness and a tougher regulatory push towards global best practices, but the raw emotions of individuals, institutions and vested interests made for an impossible sequence of unwinnable skirmishes. “Onyema has brought some saneness to the fistfights between stock market regulators and legislative oversight bodies, while making effort to upscale market sophistication.

However, despite Onyema's best efforts, the equities market still shows considerable weakness concerning the number of traded instruments available and the volume of free float for prime market traded instruments,� the firm said.

Looking ahead, Proshare said that a few local equity traders note that the domestic stock market requires support whether solicited or unsolicited since the consequence of unfettered market action could prove damaging to the stability of society. “NSE, therefore, needs to build upon its progress in the last two decades to reach the next level of its evolution where more instruments of bellwether industries are listed on the exchange and more sophisticated trading activities take place.

"The Growth Board creation is a step in the right direction, but it must move from the realm of the drawing board to the realm of action. Also, the demutualisation of NSE needs to be concluded quickly to bring the market to the contemporary standards of equity trading platforms in Europe, Asia and the United States of America(USA).

"The demutualisation of the exchange would move it from being a broker-dominated exchange to an investor-oriented exchange with higher governance standards,� it said.

Proshare added that the derivative market has been an area that the Onyema-led NSE has shown a keen interest in initiating and developing but stockbrokers have been reticent.

According to one broker, "you

build a derivative market on a fundamental understanding of asset classes and the pricing of their spin-offs; traders in Nigeria still have a knowledge gap that would need to be closed if they desire to trade in this neck of the woods,� he said.

However, the trader further noted that “derivatives can be very risky and require high technical competence. As things stand today, local market traders have neither the risk appetite nor the basic skill sets to handle such sophistication. This is where I think less is more, and for now, we should continue to dip our feet in a slow-moving river rather than take a dive into a deep blue sea."

Proshare added that while the observations of the broker may be true, it said not filling the “white spaces� open in the domestic financial market, traders would be allowing for inefficiencies in asset pricing and limiting the breadth of asset categories. “An improvement in asset classes could likely increase capital importation and strengthen the country's foreign exchange rate. Besides, with more tradeable assets available on NSE, the market would become more attractive to both local and foreign investors and lead to domestic asset deepening,� it said.

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Old Cultural Animosity, Resistance to Godfatherism Aid Ize-Iyamu’s Defeat Adibe Emenyonu

N E W S A N A LY S I S

Osagie Ize-Iyamu, an ordained pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) and candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the just concluded governorship election in Edo State, must be wondering what hit him.

Reputed to be a grassroots politician, who has spent all his life in Benin City, capital of the state, safe for the one-year sojourn in Lagos to attend the Nigerian Law School for his legal practitioner’s licence, he genuinely believed that the coveted price was in his kitty, given his perceived extensive political network in the state.

But now, he must have seen how mistaking he was. Trounced by an otherwise political novice, who was four years ago, in his own words, needed a godfather to show him around the state’s political landscape, Ize-Iyamu’s bewilderment is clearly understandable.

However, as some political analysts note, he ought to have known that the political narratives had been framed against him. Sponsored by persons suspected to want to entrench their political hegemony on the state, the outcome of the election could not have been different for as far back as 2012, there has been endemic

animosity towards the tendency for anyone to arrogate to himself the attributes of God. Even years before Oshiomhole came to the scene in 2008, Ize-Iyamu had fanned the embers of resentment of the notion. “No man is God,� was the phrase he popularised in his struggle against the entrenched political interest of the time. By 2008 when Oshiomhole became governor against the run of play from the court and began his onslaught against Chief Tony Anenih, the political godfather in the state at the time, he was only stocking the fire Ize-Iyamu had ignited.

Not a few people in the state saw Oshiomhole’s role in the last governorship election as an attempt to go back to his vomit. He had told the people that godfathers were the reason the state had stagnated and that for it move forward, all those playing God must be uprooted. “Oshiomhole taught us to fight godfathers because they are evil, now he wants to be one,�

Obaseki said in many of his campaigns across the state.

Obviously, that message resonated with the people, who Oshiomhole, in his effort to uproot the entrenched political dominance of

the Peoples Democratic Party’s leader, Anenih, spent his eight-year governorship teaching to fight godfathers. To bring in Obaseki as governor on the ground that his (Oshiomhole) eight-year governorship and achievements revolved around him (Obaseki) and turn around to paint him black four years later, portrayed Oshiomhole as not only a dog back at his vomit, but also as taking the people for granted. “We are not exactly as gullible as Oshiomhole thinks we are,� Osaro Uwugiaren, a political science graduate of University of Benin, who has been out of a job since he graduated four years ago, told THISDAY yesterday. “And there ought to be a consequence for such reprehensible behaviour,� he added.

That must have been what happened on Saturday.

If the dog’s return to its vomit was reprehensible, something more unacceptable was in the offing.

Last week, Bola Tinubu, the national leader of APC, made a broadcast, urging Edo people to reject Obaseki, dismissing him as a dictator, who has not been part of the struggle for democracy and did not appreciate the need for political tolerance. His sole evidence for this wholesome rebuke of an elected governor was Obaseki’s

perceived role in fencing off 14 state Assembly members-elect from the hallowed chamber of the legislator.

That turned out to be an unintended strategic political error. It failed to take into cognizance the age-long cultural superiority rivalry between the Yoruba and the Bini. In recent times, the superiority contest between the Yoruba and Bini over originality had boiled over. The Bini claim the Yoruba migrated from Edo and the Yoruba say the Bini originated from Oduduwa in Ile-Ife. The acrimony has been there. Tinubu’s media pronouncement, to an average Edo person especially the Bini, who are so proud of the culture, was seen as an affront and unnecessary extension of influence. “We are not about to start taking instruction from Lagos,� Idemudia Aigbogun, a lawyer, told THISDAY, saying coming against the background of the political war cry of “Edo no be Lagos,� was a most insensitive and a terrible political error of judgment.

Perhaps so. The outcome of the election in which Ize-Iyamu lost 13 of the 18 local councils, including his Orhionmwon homestead indicates a sort of disenchantment with his latest political association.

BE MAGNANIMOUS, BUHARI URGES OBASEKI AS PDP ROUTS APC IN EDO

Officer, Prof. Akpofure RimRukeh, Vice Chancellor of University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun, Delta State.

He said Obaseki scored 307,955 votes, winning the ballots cast in 13 local government areas against Ize-Iyamu’s 223,619, who prevailed in the remaining five councils.

The margin of win, according to the professor, is 84,236.

He said accredited voters were 557,443, with each candidate scoring the followings: APC 223,619; PDP 307,955; AA 107; ADC 1,370; APP 2,374; APGA 1,077; APN 57; APP 78; LP 260; NNDP 258; NRN 573; SDP 322; and YPP 132.

Total valid votes, he stated, were 537,407, rejected votes 12,835 and total votes cast was - 550,242.

Fourteen political parties fielded candidates for the election.

Shortly after the declaration of results, the president congratulated Edo State governor and urged him to be magnanimous in victory.

Buhari, according to a statement by one of his spokespersons, Malam Garba Shehu, commended the election process, which led to the victory of Obaseki, saying he was committed to free and fair polls.

He also said without the conduct of free and fair polls, the foundation of democracy would be weak and party politics would amount to nothing.

The president said: "My commitment to free and fair elections is firm, because without free and fair elections, the foundation of our political and moral authority will be weak.

"I have consistently advocated for free and fair elections in the country because it is the bedrock of true democratic

order.

"Democracy will mean nothing if the votes of the people don't count or if their mandate is fraudulently tampered with."

Buhari also commended the people of Edo State, the political parties, candidates and security agencies for conducting themselves responsibly.

Atiku, Saraki, Tambuwal, Others Greet Gov-elect Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar; Governors Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State; Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom State; Ben Ayade of Cross River State; Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State; Nyesom Wike of Rivers State and Aminu Tambuwal of Sokoto State have also congratulated Obaseki.

PDP and its National Chairman, Prince Uche Secondus; as well as former

EDO STATE GOVERNORSHIP ELECTION RESULTS

S/N 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

LOCAL GOVT. AKOKO-EDO EGOR ESAN CENTRAL ESAN NORTH EAST ESAN SOUTH EAST ESAN WEST ETSAKO CENTRAL ETSAKO EAST ETSAKO WEST IGUEBEN IKPOBA/OKHA ORHIONMWON OREDO OWAN EAST OWAN WEST OVIA NORTH EAST OVIA SOUTH WEST UHUNMWONDE TOTAL

APC PDP WINNER 22,963 20,101 APC 10,202 27,601 PDP 6,719 10,694 PDP 6,556 13,579 PDP 9237 10565 PDP 7189 17457 PDP 8,359 7,478 APC 17,011 10,668 APC 26,140 17,959 APC 5,199 7,870 PDP 18,218 41,030 PDP 10458 13445 PDP 18,365 43,498 PDP 19,295 14,762 APC 11,193 11,485 PDP 9,907 16,987 PDP 10,636 12,659 PDP 5,972 10,022 PDP 223619 307955 (84236 MARGIN) PDP

Senate Presidents, Senators

also congratulated Edo State governor on his re-election for a second term on Saturday.

Obaseki commended Edo people for his re-election, and lauded Buhari, INEC, and the security agencies for ensuring a free and fair election, describing his re-election as “triumph over godfatherism.�

In a statement yesterday by his media aide, Mr. Crusoe Osagie, Edo State governor lauded the people of the state for their display of immense courage and support in the face of threats, intimidation and brutalisation.

The governor, in his appreciation message, also saluted Buhari, INEC, security agencies, and other stakeholders, who participated in the conduct of the gubernatorial election for ensuring a free, peaceful, and credible poll in the state.

Obaseki said: “The great

Bukola Saraki and David Mark,

Continued on page 10

Services Limited, Fenog Nigeria Limited, Promasidor Nigeria Limited, Hatford Resources Nigeria Limited, Don & Chyke Nigeria Limited, BCL Trading Services Limited, and Omniworx Export Enterprises.

Aioon Energy Limited, Cowry Assets Management Limited, Everdon Nigeria Limited, Caml Bureau De Change and Everdon Bureau De Change are also listed.

Some other individuals whose accounts are being scrutiniSed include: Mr. Okechukwu Ezeh, Mr. Adamu Ezeh and Mr. Adebutu Bankole.

Speaking to THISDAY on the matter, a top bank official said: “These companies are under investigation for suspected FX infraction. We have no problem with anybody getting FX, but they should do it legally.

They are not expected to do it through free funds. Everybody is welcomed to use the FX window to get money and we would make it available for them, but they should not go through free funds. “We are out to guard against terrorism funding and money laundering. We are going to continue cracking down heavily on companies in the light of

terrorism funding and money laundering. So, we want to make sure that all inflows and outflows are through the right channels.�

CBN INVESTIGATES MORE COMPANIES OVER SUSPECTED FX INFRACTIONS documentation, the source said some unscrupulous companies had hidden under this guise to illegally transfer/repatriate huge sums of forex out of the country without following laid down rules and regulations of CBN. The source also revealed that some unscrupulous companies use this guise to conduct export activities on what is regarded as open accounts without completing NXP forms before conducting their export activities thereby avoiding repatriating the forex back to the country through approved and recognised channels.

These illegal exporters, he stated, are known to compromise officials of shipping lines and companies, who turn blind eyes by not demanding for NXP form numbers.

According to him, CBN and customs have always insisted that for any export activity to be conducted, NXP numbers must be stated on all export documents to the shipping companies but the shipping lines have failed in making such requests from the illegal exporters. “There are also cases where

some blatantly go to the BDCs to buy huge dollar cash, deposit them in banks, and resort to transfer of such funds for such unauthorised transactions without documentation using the online medium usually regarded as Straight Through Processing (STP),� he explained, adding: “CBN insists that all forex transactions must pass through the I&E window and the banks to provide full visibility, hence the reason for the ongoing investigations to stop these forex malpractices.�

THISDAY had last night obtained the list of the companies being investigated, which showed that the inflows and outflows of funds in all the bank accounts of the affected companies are being investigated by the apex bank.

The apex bank had earlier placed a post-no-debit (PND) instruction on the bank accounts of 38 companies over allegations of FX manipulation.

Thereafter, the apex bank extended the probe by directing all banks to submit to it the domiciliary account statements of some individuals and organisations involved in the gaming business.

But, the latest findings by

THISDAY showed the fresh investigations include: Amarava Agro Limited, Shivlula Nigeria Limited, Afrab Chem Limited, Bhojraj Nigeria Limited, Deeplast Nigeria Limited, Givanas Industry Nigeria Limited, Godrej Nigeria Limited, Far East Mercantile Limited and Malok Nigeria Limited.

Others are: Multichem Industries Limited, Nagode Industries Limited, Prima Corporation Limited, Regal Chem Nigeria Limited, Vista International Limited, Budha Logistics Limited, and Mitoch Global Link Ventures.

Furthermore, it listed Stallion Nigeria Limited, Solem Agro Limited, Deekay & Sons Limited, Hana Nigeria Limited, Emel Nigeria Limited, Sonnex Nigeria Limited, Montana Nigeria Limited, Daraju Nigeria Limited, Dasco Nigeria Limited, Savvy Corps Limited, Pan-Cat Nigeria Limited, MustafaMultipurpose Services, Olayfis Global Resources Limited, Pals Interchange Concept Limited, 2015 Petroleum & Investments Limited, Manann Nigeria Limited, Brollo Pipe & Profile Ind. Limited, Altrunk Nigeria Limited and Dartford Energy Services Limited.

Others are: Global Links Ventures Limited, Elemental Integrated Associates, New Home Distribution (Africa), ACCI Ventures (Nig) Limited, Dover Engineering Limited, John Kell & Associate Nigeria, Maaway Ventures Limited, Good Metal Enterprises, Medlog Logistics Services Limited, Interswitch Nigeria Limited (Dollar Acct), Beirut Hill Construction Limited, CMA CGM Nigeria Shipping Limited, Agrinexus International Limited, Sylvangel Maritime Resources Limited, Unimer SRL Limited, SCIB Nigeria & Company Limited, Domenik LLC, Petro-Afrique Energy Services and Silver Dome Enterprises Limited.

In addition, Petro-Afrique Energy Services Limited, Steel Force Far East Limited, Stemcor London Trading Limited, Fix Nigeria Limited, SA Turutu International Ent., New Brand Metals Global Limited Ventures, Auto Petroleum Company Limited, Cavendish Mechanicals Limited, Aquashield Oil & Marine Limited, were also affected.

Furthermore, CBN is also investigating the bank accounts of Haitch & Elf Integrated

TOP GAINERS NGN NGN % NEIMETH 0.15 1.95 8.5 CAVERTON 0.03 1.84 8.2 DANGSUGAR 0.80 12.00 7.1 CUSTODIAN 0.30 4.85 6.5 UNITYBANK 0.03 0.57 5.5 TOP LOSERS NGN % ABCTRANS 0.03 0.30 9.0 CORNERSTONE 0.05 0.61 7.5 LASACO 0.02 0.25 7.4 CUTIX 0.05 1.70 2.8 JAIZBANK 0.01 0.59 1.6 HPE Nestle Nig Plc â‚Ś1,175.00 Volume: 193.495 million shares Value: N1.845 billion Deals: 2,934 As at Friday 18/9/2020 See details on Page 37

MONDAY, ÍşÍšËœ ͺ͸ͺ͸ Ëž T H I S D AY

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NEWS

SEC: Digital Assets Classification Aimed at Investor Protection

Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja

Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has explained that the recentlyreleased statement on digital assets and their classification and treatment is aimed at boosting investor protection in the capital market.

The move is to ensure that digital assets offerings, including Cryptocurrencies, operate in a manner consistent with investor protection, the interest of the public, market integrity and transparency.

In a statement issued yesterday, SEC Head of

Registration, Exchanges, Market Infrastructure and Innovation, Emomotimi Agama, who spoke on the guidelines said: “The first thing SEC bothers about is investor protection. “This is no different from what we have been doing. We are looking at investor protection, integrity, transparency, and of course we want to make sure that the market is safe and everyone is comfortable with what is going on in the investment climate.�

Agama noted that last year, the commission launched the Fintech Road map, adding

that after this was done, it went ahead to set up the blockchain virtual financial assets committee.

He said: “These committees are both market-wide and principally done to engage the market, to be able to have discussions with the market and get their buy-in into what we are doing. “What we found out today is that a lot of persons, youths are all involved in this space and it is important that even as far as that is the case, SEC lives up to the expectations and making sure that those people that are getting into the

business are protected. “Clearly, that is our aim and the market is part of this and indeed the feedback has been wonderful. People are happy with what we are doing, being able to provide some clarity as to where we stand in terms of digital assets regulation. “Digital asset is the next thing; our idea is not to stifle innovation, but to promote innovation within a reasonable space and that is exactly what we are doing. Section 13 of the ISA empowers us to do this and so we are doing what we have been empowered to do by law."

On what internal capacities SEC is developing to meet the challenges of this fast-changing digital financial world, Agama said: “SEC is a knowledgebased institution and before we come up with this kind of initiatives, we would have done so much research."

He disclosed that the Cambridge Centre for Alternative Finance has been partnering with SEC, adding that up to this point, the commission has been engaging with them with several of its staff being part of their programmes. “The World Bank and other

institutions are also working with us on Fintech to see that the Nigerian landscape is not left barren but guided with basic principles, we will not leave any stone unturned, but ensure that everyone within SEC that has the responsibility to guiding investors and the populace in making sure we have an investment environment that people will be proud of is provided. “Capacity building is a continuous exercise, we will continue to upgrade ourselves, we will continue to learn because knowledge is for life,� he added.

CBN Assures Flood Victims of Insurance Cover James Emejo in Abuja

Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) said there was no cause for worry among farmers under its Anchor Borrower Programme (ABP) following the recent devastation of farmlands by flooding in the North-west.

CBN’s Director of Development Finance Department, Mr. Yusuf Yila, who disclosed this over the weekend, said both the apex bank and affected farmers are currently covered by insurance, adding that relevant

claims had been settled.

Speaking during the formal launch of the Hybrid MultiPeril Crop Indemnity-Index Insurance (H-II) by the Nigeria Incentive-Based Risk Sharing System for Agricultural Lending (NIRSAL) in partnership with Royal Exchange Plc, CBN director commended NIRSAL for facilitating the development of insurance products, which had helped to provide succour to farmers at a critical time.

He submitted that the apex bank had to adopt NIRSAL insurance model for farmers in

resolving the crisis caused by the flooding, which ravaged huge expanse of farmlands.

He said: "There is not a lot for me to say around insurance with what has happened in the North-west. “The reason that makes me sleep in the last week is that the first thing I did was to tell my staff to pay insurance first.

"Though unfortunate, we are not afraid of what has happened in the North-west but at least our farmers and ourselves are covered."

He also said CBN is

currently working on legislation to ensure that ABP and other developmental interventions do continue to run irrespective of the government of the day.

Yila further commended NIRSAL managing for providing leadership and direction and being at the forefront of innovation in the agricultural sector.

However, in furtherance to its mandate to de-risk the agricultural sector, the agriculture risk agency has unveiled a fresh insurance package for smallholder

farmers.

The H-II, which was launched in partnership with the foremost insurance firm, Royal Exchange Plc, seeks to protect farmers from farming losses during a particular farming season as well as cover for the life of the farmer in case of permanent disability or death, during the season, thus ensuring the farmer is able to remain in business no matter the loss or situation.

Speaking during the formal launch over the weekend, Managing Director/Chief Executive, NIRSAL, Mr. Aliyu

Abdulhameed, described the intervention as yet another milestone in agricultural insurance in the country.

He said the partnership with Royal Exchange puts the interests of Nigerian farmers at the forefront by ensuring they are adequately protected throughout each farming season.

NIRSAL MD pointed out that it's through such strategic partnerships that the agency had continued to realise its vision of transforming the economy, delivering inclusive growth as well as impact lives.

state.

PDP also yesterday congratulated the people of Edo State on the re-election of their chosen leader, Obaseki, on the platform of the party.

In a statement signed by the National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Kola Ologbondiyan, the party said the victory, as won by the people, is historic and serves as a strong, viable, and unambiguous lesson to leaders.

It said: "Our party celebrates the resilience and courage exhibited by the people of Edo State in resisting the antics of the enemies of democracy, who, as vote buyers, patrons of lions and tigers, as well as beguilers, attempted to take over the political space of Edo State.

"We rejoice with Edo people for helping to reset the political culture of our nation by casting their votes, protecting the votes, ensuring that their votes counted and following it, ‘bumper-to-bumper,’ to the final point of declaration."

Congratulating Obaseki, Saraki in a statement from his Media Office in Abuja, stated that his victory represented the determination of the good people of Edo State to decide who governs the state and to ensure their votes count at all times.

Former President of the Senate, Senator David Mark, said Obaseki’s victory was a triumph of the will of the people.

the party leaders study the results and decide what its next action would be.

In a statement issued by the Chairman of APC Media Campaign Council, Mr. John Mayaki, the party rejected the results, citing alleged strong-arm tactics.

"Our people were arbitrarily arrested, many of the figures were fabricated," it said.

It further alleged illicit tampering with results, to shore up PDP numbers and mark down APC’s performance.

"In areas where we won they cancelled them. They decreased the votes in areas we had an advantage. They rejected our results and jerked up theirs," Mayaki said.

BE MAGNANIMOUS, BUHARI URGES OBASEKI AS PDP ROUTS APC IN EDO people of Edo State have spoken. They have spoken loud and clear. We thank God Almighty and give him all the glory for this victory. “Thank you, President Muhammadu Buhari, for defending our democracy and allowing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the security agencies to perform their constitutional functions without interference. “INEC and the security services have shown to Nigerians and the world that they are capable of conducting free and credible elections.�

The governor continued: “Words fail me in saluting our teeming supporters who displayed immense courage in the face of threats, intimidation, and brutalisation. The collective will of Edo people made it possible for this triumph over godfatherism. “I am eternally grateful to my party the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and my brother governors not only for giving me the umbrella during my political storm but for the hard work which has brought me back to office. “Our success has reinforced my belief that there is nothing we cannot achieve as a people if we pull forces together and collectively call on God for support. “I reiterate that working with my Deputy, Hon. Philip Shaibu, we are committed to Making Edo Great Again. Thank you for your support.�

Atiku congratulated Obaseki on his victory.

In a statement, the former vice president also commended the people of Edo State for their resilience in the face of the forces arrayed against them,

saying the victory of Obaseki “is not just a victory, but a declaration of independence from the anti-democratic forces of godfatherism and militarism.�

In his congratulatory message, Fintiri encouraged Obaseki to write his name in gold as one who changed the politics of Edo State by putting godfatherism to rest.

In the message signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Humwashi Wonosikou, Adamawa State governor said Obaseki’s victory has put to rest godfatherism and has also changed the political landscape of Edo State.

Governor Wike of Rivers State, who was also the Chairman of PDP National Campaign Council, said the efforts of the party were not in vain.

Wike, who spoke in Benin City shortly after INEC affirmed Obaseki as the winner of the election, said: "Our efforts are not in vain. My brother has been declared the winner of the 2020 governorship election in Edo State. Let me thank my colleagues, the governors of Delta State, Oyo State, and all other people who served in the campaign council; I do not know how to thank them.

"I also thank the governor of Edo State for giving us the necessary support that led to this victory. A few hours ago, we were here to brief you on what was going on, and thank God, thereafter, the announcement came. We also thank all those who worked in the campaign council in Edo; we want to formally thank all of you."

In his own message, Governor Emmanuel of Akwa

Ibom State, through his Chief Press Secretary and Senior Special Assistant, Media, Mr. Ekerete Udoh, thanked God for ushering in a peaceful and credible election in Edo State.

Drawing similarities to what happened last year in his state.

Emmanuel said, “Last year, the good people of Akwa Ibom State rose in unison and said no to godfatherism and the much-touted federal might, declaring their fidelity to the supremacy of our ONLY GOD in the affairs of man.

"Today, our brothers and sisters in Edo State have replicated the same wholesome faith and belief in God over the boastful exuberance of ordinary mortals by voting to return a leader who best represents their values and ethos; a doer and not a talker,� he said.

In a press statement signed by his Special Adviser, Media and Publicity, Christian Ita, Ayade described Obaseki's victory at the polls as well deserved considering his achievements in the past four years.

"I extend my warm felicitations to you on your well-deserved victory in the just concluded Edo gubernatorial election. For those of us who have keenly followed your giant strides in Edo State, your victory did not come as a surprise,� he said.

Okowa also congratulated his Edo counterpart, and his deputy, Hon. Philip Shaibu, on their re-election.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Olisa Ifeajika, in Asaba, yesterday, Okowa described the re-election of Obaseki as “the confirmation of the will of the people� and called on Nigerians to always

stand for good leaders as Edo people just did for Obaseki.

He stated that the people of Edo across the 18 local government areas of the state spoke loudly and clearly in their reaffirmation of the choice of Obaseki as their governor.

Governor of Sokoto State and Chairman of PDP Governors' Forum, Tambuwal, congratulated Obaseki.

In a statement he signed, Tambuwal said the decisive turning point in any major contest is not who wins, but adherence to the ground rules that made it possible for a victor to emerge without a squabble.

"Our collective resolve, borne out of our shared democratic values, team spirit, and concern for the people as our primary constituency galvanised us to work within the ambits of the spirit and letter of the law. All of us, as servants of the people, set aside, with the utmost caution, negative thoughts that our party will not have a fair deal. Our logistical and legal nightmares, if any, were that the people of Edo State will not get a fair deal if the rules of the game are circumvented before and during the election," Tambuwal said.

Secondus has also congratulated Obaseki and Shaibu on their well-deserved victory, describing the victory as a clear affirmation and demonstration of the people's goodwill in appreciation of the outstanding performance of the governor and his deputy in their first term.

The national chairman praised Edo people for standing up for democracy through their avowed determination to ensure that the will of the people and nobody else prevailed in their

Edo APC Rejects Election Results Meanwhile, APC in Edo State has alleged foul play in the election, and called on party members to stay calm while

Yakubu Thanks INEC Staff Meanwhile, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairman, Prof.

Mahmood Yakubu, has expressed appreciation to all those who worked to make the election a success.

While winding down the Situation Room on Edo Governorship Election at 2.20 p.m., the chairman said there was no respite yet for all as attention shifts to Ondo State where the commission would in three weeks conduct another governorship election.

According to INEC chairman, three weeks after that it would be the series of by-elections in 11 states.

Yakubu challenged all INEC staff and participants in the conduct of elections in the country to prove that the success in Edo State was not a fluke but the standard in the conduct of elections.

MONDAY SEPTEMBER 21, 2020 • T H I S D AY

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MONDAY SEPTEMBER 21, 2020 ˾ T H I S D AY

NEWS

Buhari, Ghanaian President, Akufo-Addo Meet in Aso Rock Ejiofor Alike President Muhammadu Buhari and his Ghanaian counterpart, Nana Akufo-Addo, met yesterday in Aso Rock, according to the Personal Assistant to the Nigerian president on Broadcast Media, Buhari Sallau.

Akufo-Addo had earlier yesterday addressed his countrymen in a nationwide broadcast.

“President @MBuhari receives in audience Ghanian President H.E. @NAkufoAddo in State House on

20th Sep 2020,” the presidential aide tweeted attaching images of both presidents.

Details of the meeting are unknown as of the time of filing this report.

However, many shops belonging to Nigerian traders were recently shut in Ghana following a $1m levy imposed on them by the government of the West African country.

Nigeria and Ghana had also in the last few months engaged in a diplomatic row, following a number of issues, including

the seizure and demolition of a building in the Nigerian Embassy in Accra.

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, had last month met with the Speaker of Ghana’s parliament on the fate of Nigerians while on what he called “legislative diplomacy” trip to the country.

Also, issues arising from the $1million levy imposed by the Ghanian authorities on traders from Nigeria were part of the agenda when Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo held a meeting with representatives of the Nigerian community in the West African country on September 15.

The Nigerian government,

through the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, on August 28, listed several atrocities committed by the Ghanaian authorities, warning that the government would no longer tolerate such aggression.

Mohammed talked about the seizure of the “Nigerian Mission’s property located at No. 10, Barnes

Road, Accra, which has been used as diplomatic premises by the Nigerian Government for almost 50 years; the demolition of the Nigerian Mission’s property located at No. 19/21 Julius Nyerere Street, East Ridge, Accra, which constitutes another serious breach of the Vienna Convention.”

Nigeria’s COVID-19 Cases Rise By 97 to 57, 242 Nigeria has recorded 97 new cases of COVID-19, bringing to 57, 242, the number of cases in the country.

Announcing this yesterday, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) stated that the country also recorded three deaths.

“Till date, 57,242 cases have been confirmed, 48,569 cases have been discharged and 1,098 deaths

have been recorded in 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) “The 97 new cases are reported from 12 states- Lagos, (46); Kwara, (12); Rivers, (11); Adamawa, (four); Niger (four); Ogun (four); Osun (four); Ekiti (three); Imo (three); Kaduna (three); Plateau, (three); and FCT, (one).

Jonathan Congratulates Obaseki,Tasks Him to Rise above Partisan Politics Former President Goodluck Jonathan has congratulated Mr. Godwin Obaseki over his re-election as Edo State Governor.

Jonathan, in his congratulatory message, tasked the re-elected governor to rise above partisan politics and govern the good people of Edo State, irrespective of party leaning.

The former president also commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for overseeing a process that allowed the votes of the good people of Edo State to count.

“I congratulate His Excellency Godwin Obaseki on his reelection as Edo State Governor and the INEC Nigeria for

overseeing a process that allowed the votes of the good people of Edo to count.

“Democracy can only be consolidated to promote good governance in our nation and continent when our elections become credible, transparent and truly represent the wish of the voters. Democracy is about the good of all the people and not for winners and losers.

“As the election has been contested and won, I urge His Excellency to rise above partisan politics and govern for the good of Edo people, irrespective of party leaning.

“This is the way to deepen our democracy and bring development to the people,” Jonathan said.

Ibadan Notorious Gang Leader Arrested The Director General of Oyo State Joint Security Task Force codenamed ‘Operation Burst’ Col. Oladipo Ajibola (retired) has confirmed arrest of the new leader of the notorious ‘One Million Boys,’ a cult group terrorising Ibadan, Oyo State capital city.

The new leader popularly known as ‘Eji’ became leader of the cult group following the death of Abiola Ebila recently.

Ebila was recently killed by men of Operation Burst in a gun duel at one of his hideouts where he held some kidnapped victims hostage.

The DG said Eji, who was the second-in-command to the deceased leader, was facing trial after he was handed over to the police.

Ajibola said the security outfit has rid Ibadan of the menace of the notorious gang as members have run out to seek cover in neighbouring states.

He said: “Operation Burst has been able to reduce criminality in

Oyo State. People now go about doing their businesses without fear, we have effected a lot of arrests in relation to cultism, yahoo boys and other criminals and hand them over to the right security agency concerned, the high profile among the criminal cases was Abiola Ebila.

“Abiola Ebila, the leader of one million boys was involved in kidnapping and we got him through one of the personalities he kidnapped while he was asking for ransom, the elimination of Abiola Ebila has sent other gang leaders out of Oyo State and we are still trailing those who are their minions.

“We have succeeded in getting one of them recently who was the second in command to the late Ebila.

“We handed him over to another security agency for proper investigation and prosecution and we urge the general public to avail the security agencies prompt information to nip criminality in the bud.”

IN SEARCH OF DIPLOMATIC SOLUTION...

Ghanaian President, Nana Akufo-Addo (left), and President Muhammadu Buhari, during the visit of the Ghanaian leader to the Presidential Villa, Abuja....yesterday

Kano Anti-graft Agency to File Corruption Charges against Sanusi The Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission has given the former Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi II, two days to respond to allegations of land racketeering against him.

The commission in March, asked Sanusi to appear before it for allegedly ordering the illegal sale of several hectares of land in the state.

The Cable quoted the agency as saying that the “proceeds of the sales remitted to the emirate council bank account can be traced to the companies of interest to His Highness”.

It is gathered that charges would be filed against the former monarch soon, and that the legal processes are in the works.

In a letter dated September 8, the anti-graftagencysaiditwasinvestigating “the management of pieces of land that were reserved as ‘Gandun Sarki’ spreadinmanypartsofthestate”under the stewardship of the former emir.

It said the allegations against Sanusi border on sections 22, 23 and 26 of the state law.

“Investigation revealed that all transactions for the sale of the landed properties belonging to the Emirate

were done corruptly by the trio of Shehu Muhammad Dankadai (Sarkin Shanu), Sarki Abdullahi Ibrahim (Makaman Kano) and Mustapha Kawu Yahaya (Dan Isan Lapai)purportedly on behalf of Ado Bayero Royal City Trust Fund and allegedly on your instructions,” the letter read.

“Another issue that needs clarification from you is that at its 4th sitting dated the 8th June 2016, the Kano Emirate Council refused to approve the request to pay a foreign consultant (Messer Apple One Integrated Resources) the sum

of N175,000,990.90 but you allegedly instructed the above mentioned trio and members of Ado Bayero Royal City Trust Fund to directly without even channeling the proceed from the site and services programme of Darmanawa Phase II to the Emirate Council account and the sum was given to Dan Isan Lapai by the company handling the project of City Scape Properties Ltd. based on your alleged instruction for the settlement of the said consultant and another N220 Million for an undisclosed entity.

Abdulsalami-led Peace Committee Congratulates Obaseki, Others The National Peace Committee (NPC) has congratulated Godwin Obaseki for his re-election as governor of Edo State.

In a statement issued yesterday, the NPC Chairman and former Military Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, (rtd) also congratulated the people of the Edo State, while commending then over the “peaceful conduct” of the election.

He urged the governor to

“repay the good people of the state with all the ingredients of good governance, justice (and) equity” as he commences his next tenure.

The NPC chairman also congratulated the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies and even Obaseki’s closest rival in the election and the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Osagie Ize-Iyamu.

“I want to congratulate the Chairman of INEC, Professor Mahmoud (Yakubu) and his team, the Inspector General of Police, other security agencies, and civil society groups for doing such an excellent job and making great sacrifices. It is our prayer that every election will bring us closer to peace.

“I want to thank the Oba, His Royal Highness, Omonoba who teamed up with our committee to deploy his moral authority in

the appeal for peace.

“Finally, our congratulations to the contestants, to Godwin Obaseki, the winner, Pastor (Osagie) Ize-Iyamu and others who sought the office of governor.

“Your Excellency, Governor, it is our prayer that you will repay the good people of Edo state with all the ingredients of good governance, justice (and) equity. Once again, accept our congratulations and may God guide you,” he said.

Lightning Strikes in Ekiti, Kills 15 Cows Victor Ogunje in Ado Ekiti Thunder last Saturday evening reportedly struck dead 15 cows at the outskirt of Ikogosi Ekiti community in Ekiti West Local Government Area of Ekiti State.

The incident, according to Asaoye of Ikogosi, Chief Ayo Ademilua, was a natural occurrence, which he said was strange in the town.

Speaking with journalists via telephone conversation yesterday, Ademilua revealed

that the incident happened at the Ikogosi warm spring site on Ipole-Ekiti road.

Ikogosi warm spring has been a notable recreational and tourist centre, where warm and cold spring converge.

The chief said the thunder was said to have struck during a torrential downpour that started around 4 p.m. that day.

According to him, “The whole town was shaken when the thunder struck, and later, some commuters coming into town and

those returning home from their farms said they saw some Fulani herders who disclosed that it was thunder that killed their cattle.”

Also speaking on the incident , the Onikogosi of Ikogosi Ekiti, Oba Abiodun Olorunnisola, alleged that the herders have been making spirited efforts to sell the cows to the residents, describing this as dangerous to the health of his people.

The monarch said he has reached out to his colleague at Ipole Ekiti, Oba Oladele

Babatola, on the need to warn their subjects against consuming such desecrated animal.

“The two of us have alerted our subjects that there was an attempt to commence the sale of the dead cows, and we are making concerted efforts to prevent the intending buyers,” he said.

The monarch, however, called on the government to evacuate the carcasses of the cows to prevent spread of communicable diseases in the two towns.

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COMMENT

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

A VOTE AGAINST GODFATHERISM

Fredrick Nwabufo writes that Godwin Obaseki’s victory in the Edo election is an action against godfatherism and all its appliances

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lliances can make and mar us. Jehoshaphat, King of Judah (south of Israel) was a man who sought the face of God. He was a decent ruler. But his yoking with kings of base virtue ruined his legacy. In particular, his dalliance with the house of Ahab and Jezebel impaired his bloodline and nearly cost him the glory of Yahweh.

Power is a principal thing but the path on which we tread to its courts matters. I think it is hypocritical fighting a system but at the same time enjoying the dysfunctionality of that system.

The Edo governorship election has taken its place in the past of gritty and rousing contests. But the lessons from the election will remain fecund in our political discourse.

One thing stands out. Nigerians detest the ‘’contrivances of godfatherism’’. The election is inherently an action against godfatherism and all its appliances. The ‘Edo no be Lagos’ mantra is a revolutionary shibboleth which conveys the coup de grace to an endemic political scourge.

I think Bola Tinubu, national leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), set up Osagie Ize-Iyamu, candidate of the party, by insufferably putting a demand on the people of Edo State on who they must vote. Nothing irritates more than valorous arrogance. Tinubu overestimated his influence. That broadcast he did a few days to the election adjuring the people of Edo to reject Obaseki on the grounds that the governor is a dictator in no small measure ricocheted, putting craters to Ize-Iyamu’s ambition.

Also, the first rule of godfatherism is “do not act like a godfather’’. Adams Oshiomhole, former national chairman of the APC, broke this canon by stepping beyond the remit of his mortal powers and attempting to wrestle with the celestials. His ego got the better of him. He wanted to whip an ‘’erring’’ godson to shape but lost himself in the process.

He cut off his nose to spite his face.

Oshiomhole’s nemesis is graphed in this dictum by my friend, Sulaiman Aledeh: ‘’Legend has it that there once lived a powerful man who was so disturbed by a rat in his home. He burnt down his house in an attempt to kill this rat. The rat did not die; it jumped out of the inferno leaving the man without a home – he became homeless.’’ But what is next for Obaseki? Will he rebel against his new “godfather(s)’’ in the PDP who gave him the platform to fulfil his ambition? And is his re-election the end of godfatherism in Edo as he bravoed? I think not. As I said in a previous article, “our political process is cannibalistic; it is dog eat dog. National interest succumbs to group and individual interest in our brand of politics. It does

THE ‘EDO NO BE LAGOS’ MANTRA IS A REVOLUTIONARY SHIBBOLETH WHICH CONVEYS THE COUP DE GRACE TO AN ENDEMIC POLITICAL SCOURGE

not reward rebels or people of independent disposition.

To chance on political office, you must contort your principles and personal integrity to fit into the agenda of the keepers of the political platforms, notoriously regarded as the ‘godfathers’. The godfathers control these political platforms. They hold the reins of political progression.

So, as long as the present political ecosystem subsists, godfatherism will remain in Nigeria.’’ Really, I see Obaseki fleeing from one godfather drama to another. The governor will realise soon enough that his new political benefactor, Nyesom Wike is an absolutist; a one of kind godfather. Wike combines brute with arrogance. He does not fancy otherness or contraries. It is his way always.

The governor of Rivers State runs the PDP – by virtue of the resources at his disposal. The party conforms to his whim and caprices. It is said in PDP circles, you cannot get anything done in the party without Wike’s blessings.

In September 2018, he threatened that there would be consequences if the PDP moved the party’s national convention away from Port Harcourt. The leadership of the party quickly fell in line.

When Wike sneezes the PDP catches cold. Clearly, Obaseki understood this as he hurriedly paid obeisance to Wike soon after he defected to the PDP – when the APC rejected him. In the build-up to the Edo election in June, Wike threatened to withdraw support for Obaseki over a publication alleging he was in cahoots with some persons to stop the Edo governor from participating in the party’s primary election – and as it is customary there was grovelling and back-bending to the godfather and ‘’national governor of the PDP’’.

Wike was named PDP Edo campaign DG principally as a recognition of his pre-eminence in the affairs of the party. He is the PDP. He holds the reins of political progression in the party. He calls the shots. He is the godfather.

But how well can Obaseki navigate through the relationship maze with Wike who is short-tempered and domineering?

Well, I foresee that there be will spheres of conflict between Obaseki and Wike; not necessarily as regards areas of administration in Edo, but on differences in political interest and pursuits.

Obaseki must beware of the new godfather and the godfathers in the PDP. Nwabufo is a writer and journalist

UZODINNMA AND THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE LAW The noise over the criminal justice law is unnecessary, contends Declan Emelumba

I

t has become a pattern in Imo State for the opposition to rake up one controversy or the other anytime that Governor Hope Uzodinnma scores high in delivering democracy dividends to the people of the state.

Like the Frankenstein monster that seeks to destroy that which it cannot create, members of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and their cheerleaders are always looking behind their shadows anytime Uzodinnma scores a bull’s eye in governance so that they will quickly come out with a negative propaganda to whittle down the effect. In their vain attempt to obliterate their incompetence and zero performance record while in office, they have resorted to sheer brigandage and sophistry even in matters that they created.

It is therefore not surprising that the opposition is trying to sell a dummy to Nigerians that Governor Uzodinnma has signed into a law a bill that gives him express powers to arrest and detain any citizen without recourse to the rule of law.

The story in town being hawked by these frustrated and empty vessels is that a dictator has emerged in Imo State and that the citizens are no longer safe. To people not conversant with the modus operandi of the opposition in the state, this is bad news. But those who know them too well, know where they are coming from.

Not too long ago, Hope Uzodinnma rolled out 30 coaster buses for the conveyance of civil servants to and fro the State Secretariat daily and free of charge. That was after he had restored the dilapidated buildings and spruced up the environment, returning power and water supply to make the place conducive for civil servants. That had not happened since the creation of the state in 1976. Permanent secretaries, who had been trekking to work due to lack of official cars, were put out of the misery by the same governor who provided brand new official vehicles to them.

Just as the ovation of what the governor did was about to reach a crescendo, he

rolled out 10 mobile clinics to take health care to the sick in their homes. The clinics equipped with laboratories and drugs and personnel provide their services free to the sick, the aged and the vulnerable.

The rural areas have been agog with the news of the novel policy which is also the first of its kind since 1976 when the state was created. The outpouring of joy and appreciation by a grateful populace for Uzodinnma is at the centre of the current allegation against the governor.

For the opposition who had a golden opportunity to perform for seven months but squandered it while pandering to selfish and vain glory, the successes being recorded by Uzodinnma is like a hot knife thrust at their hearts. Because they can’t bear to see the people happy, they have reached for their tar brush in a futile effort to erase the good works of the governor.

But that is a mission impossible.

For starters the Administration of Criminal Justice Law ACJ Law No. 2, 2020 was not recently signed into law by Governor Uzodinnma. It was signed on March 11, over seven months ago. It has close to 500 sections. The bill was sponsored by Hon. Frank Ugboma, representing Oguta State Constituency where the sacked Deputy Governor, Gerald Irona hails from.

The bill was sponsored in 2019 and passed accordingly when Emeka Ihedioha was still governor. The current Speaker, Dr. Chiji Collins was also the Speaker. Uzodinnma inherited the bill and merely signed it into law on March this year. He did so because it was the domestication of a federal law which all the states of the federation are expected to concur.

It is really funny when the governor is accused of vesting himself with sweeping powers to arrest and detain anybody according to section 484 of the law. It is even more baffling that those who actually midwife the bill are claiming ignorance of that controversial section because apparently, they are no longer in government. The chief sponsor of the bill, Frank Ugboma

claimed that the section was smuggled into the law signed by the governor.

Assuming, but not conceding, that the section was actually smuggled into a bill that was signed since March, how come Hon. Ugboma did not deem it necessary to raise the alarm since then? Why raise the matter at this critical stage that Imo people are hailing their governor for his welfare programmes that are touching the lives of the rural dwellers? Is it then difficult to locate the real motive of those shouting “crucify Hope�, “crucify Hope�?

It is instructive that before that law was signed by the governor, a review committee comprising the best of legal minds both in the bench and the bar in the state went through the provisions line by line.

They not only approved it but the State House of Assembly sanctioned same as endorsed by the speaker before presenting it to the governor for his assent. Publishing the names of the eminent people who represented various strata of the society including Child’s Rights Advocate, Human and Child’s Advocate, and the academia with technical support from Legal Defence and Assistance Project (LEDAP) will not serve any purpose, but suffice it to state that Uzodinnma could not have signed the bill into law with any ulterior motive.

First of all, the governor is a democrat who believes in the rule of law. That was why he did not resort to violence when the PDP stole his mandate. He quietly pursued his matter to its logical conclusion to the Supreme Court. Secondly, he was a lawmaker for eight years. He understands the workings of the parliament, knowing full well that the passage of a bill is a collective decision by the House irrespective of party affiliation. Thirdly, Hope Uzodinnma believes that government is a continuum. That is why he did not rashly rush into the dissolution of even panels set up by his predecessor. He did not revoke contracts awarded by the previous government. He did not disrupt the activities of government just because a new governor

came on board. In other words, signing the bill into law even though it was not initiated during his time was part of his philosophy of government being a continuum.

Now as to the application of the section 484, the bill was signed into law in March.

Hope Uzodinnma had been challenged severally by many people, yet he is yet to resort to the law to defend or protect himself. Ambrose Nwogwugwu committed a criminal libel against him. He followed due process by reporting to the police who did their job by arraigning the man in a magistrate court. Some hoodlums recently attacked his convoy with dangerous weapons. Uzodinnma did not arrest and detain them at his pleasure. He also allowed the law to take its course. One man has been leading fake pensioners on daily protests to embarrass the governor. Yet he suffered amnesia in calling up section 484 to his rescue. Does that show him as a power hungry governor let loose on the hapless people of the state?

However, let it be known that apart from Uzodinma being a democrat who will never engage in anti-democratic acts, he is a governor who swore to protect the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. We should be aware that even President Muhammadu Buhari cannot override the provisions of the constitution of Nigeria. Any law that is an affront to the letters of the constitution remains ultra vires. Therefore the hullabaloo of the ACJL 02, of 2020 remains a storm in a tea’s cup. Those who are sufficiently aggrieved or alarmed concerning the controversial section can always go back to the Imo State Assembly which has not disowned the law to seek an amendment. Better still, the courts are there to interpret the law.

People should therefore stop distracting Uzodinnma in his determined efforts to serve Imo people with a difference.

Emelumba is commissioner for information and strategy Imo State

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EDITORIAL

CONTAINING THE RAGE OF NATURE Government should redeem its commitment towards the Paris Agreement

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he Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) in its 2020 seasonal rainfall prediction released in January warned of unprecedented flooding across the nation this year.

With reports of whole communities being submerged by storm water as well as schools, hospitals and farmlands being washed off, there are ominous signs that the prediction is gradually becoming a reality. The combined impact of climate change and heavy rainfall has forced streams and rivers to overflow their banks with dire consequences for lives and livelihoods. The death toll is rising and so is the number of displaced people with the fear that outbreak of diseases like cholera and diarrhea could aid the spread of the dreaded COVID-19 pandemic.

The federal and state governments have in one way or the other responded to these disasters, but Nigerians wish for more formidable plans to mitigate floodENVIRONMENTALISTS FIND ing, in addition IT WORRISOME THAT THE to strategies to prevent wanton ECOLOGICAL FUND HAS loss of lives and ACHIEVED TOO LITTLE IN property. Scientists TERMS OF ADAPTATION have linked this TO CLIMATIC ISSUES AND abnormal weather to global warming, TO MITIGATION OF THE identifying human PROBLEMS activities as cause of the earth’s rising temperature, leading to the 2015 Paris Agreement under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. And Nigeria was among the 197 countries that agreed to the goal of “holding the increase in the global average temperature to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels and pursuing efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5°C.�

However, not much efforts have been made to contain the impact of climate change in our country.

For instance, gas flaring in Nigeria contributes to the emission of greenhouse gases, implicated in global warming/earth’s rising temperature. In the nationally determined contribution submitted in March 2017, the government promised to foster

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low-carbon, high growth economic development and build a climate resilient society. This can only be achieved by not polluting the atmosphere and sucking out the carbon dioxide using tree planting, which remains the best technology provided by nature.

The avoidable deaths and devastation caused by the 2012 flooding is still fresh in the minds and hearts of those who took direct hit. To mitigate these disasters, the government should discourage bush burning, and use of fossil fuel for electricity and transportation as well as learn from the mistakes of other countries. Nigeria must copy the good strategies employed by countries that have successfully controlled the impact of climate change.

Nigeria has a massive amount of renewable energy sources it should have been tapping a long time ago. Also, government needs to rework or implement its urban planning laws to give priority to green spaces and parks so that people can live harmoniously with nature. Plans by the government to plant 25 million trees this year should be encouraged. Environmentalists find it painfully worrisome that the ecological fund has achieved too little in terms of adaptation to climatic issues and to mitigation of the problems. The huge funds do not match the scrawny drains built in communities to lead storm water to nowhere, as they are illconceived, poorly-designed and programmed to fail for reasons of corruption.

The failure of the ecological fund to make desired impact is also the reason communities in the nation’s coastal areas are being washed away, and it is probably a reason the government is unable to build the tree-barrier, known as the Great Green Wall, to keep the desert in check. Importantly, the government should take up the challenge by the UNDP to lead the way by implementing the seven-point plans President Muhammadu Buhari announced to the world during the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) at Climate Change Summit, which reiterates commitment to concrete actions towards the Paris Agreement goals.

It is also imperative for the government to take advantage of UNDP’s commitment to support Nigeria on this course.

TO OUR READERS Letters in response to speciďŹ c publications in THISDAY should be brief (150-200 words) and straight to the point. Interested readers may send such letters along with their contact details to opinion@thisdaylive.com. We also welcome comments and opinions on topical local, national and international issues provided they are well-written and should also not be longer than (9501000 words). They should be sent to opinion@thisdaylive.com along with the email address and phone numbers of the writer.

OBASEKI COOKED OSHIOMHOLE’S GOOSE

am happy that Godwin Obaseki won the gubernatorial election in Edo State not so much because he is going to provide any outstanding leadership for the people of Edo State. After all, the average politician in Nigeria is in politics for self, not to help the needy and, not for mission but because he cooked Adams Oshiomhole’s goose. It was time someone did so.

Here is a former governor who does not know the importance of mission, transparency and how to give people the latitude to express selves. Small wonder, he failed as a national party chairman. He talks too much in his element instead of listening too much. People who talk too much are most times only interested in status symbols, they give a lower profile to the attributes of other people, they expect little from people instead of so much and they get little result, they do not believe in the wisdom of the crowds in an era of diversity.

What is missing as a result of this shenanigan is the absence of the pursuit of objectives and key results to develop polity.

Oshiomhole enjoys breathing down people’s neck, very proficient at “shape up or ship out� conversation, but does not help people grow. Where then is the beauty of democracy if nonconforming views are not celebrated? For Oshiomhole, views that are not agreeable should either be thrown to Hell or high water. There is something called, “compassionate pragmatism,� and it allows people to come with their own solutions and solve their own problems.

Oshiomhole loves to tell people what to do, but not to encourage and listen to supporters. It was embarrassing for me to see him campaign for Osagie Ize-Iyamu whom he had years ago fobbed off with condescension. His presence on Ize- Iyamu’s campaign entourage became the encumbrance of

Ize-Iyamu.

Iyamu so politically ham-fisted forgot that in politics when the sums of people’s faults outweigh their plus-point, they become a liability. He should have known that Oshiomhole was a liability. Al Gore knew that Bill Clinton was a burden because of the Monica Lewinsky affair and did not include him in his campaign train for president of the United States.

How some people attempt to rewrite history in Nigeria even with historical records in the public space beggars’ belief.

What do they tell their children about principles, values and character? If character changes with changing circumstances, what would people be remembered for? What is Oshiomhole’s story? I know Gani Fawehinmi’s, Wole Soyinka’s, Femi Falana’s stories.

I am happy that the hubris of the former governor met its poetic nemesis.

Now that the people of Edo State have shown that he is no longer politically relevant, he needs to create a new bubble for himself and live in it. No need parading himself as a leviathan with the empty bubble of the old. Nigeria only offered him a platform for political patronage. He does not understand the workings of politics like the man in Lagos.

Who will undo the Gordian knot in Edo? When my mother is angry she mutters nonsense in the Igala language, “ugba kocho.�

Obaseki won the election because the people of Edo came all out against Oshiomhole and not against Ize-Iyamu. Purposeful politics requires that you approach people with sensitivity.

Oshiomhole’s arrogance led to his fall.

Simon Abah, Abuja

THE TRUTH IS OUT THERE - SOMEWHERE

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hy have two Australian journalists, working in China, Bill Birtles and Mike Smith, suddenly gone to their Embassy and then quickly returned to Australia? Is it because another Australian journalist Cheng Lei, who works for an official Chinese media organization has been detained and held by authorities?

The Chinese government had wanted to speak to them, and this has not always been a positive experience for journalists there and in a number of countries around the world. Journalism has been under attack ranging from Trump’s “Fake News� and “Alternative Facts� through to the murder of Jamal Khashoggi but who should fear the truth?

The same concerns are being reported worldwide, or at least in countries that have a free press, and the concerns are the same. The facts should be reportable and then discussed honestly, openly and more importantly without fear of retribution. Retribution seems like an exaggeration, but people have died to tell the truth. ‘The truth is out there’ but can we be sure we are getting an accurate and complete news report? Keep fighting.

Dennis Fitzgerald, Melbourne, Australia

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T H I S D AY ˾ MONDAY SEPTEMBER 21, 2020

Group Politics Editor NSEOBONG OKON-EKONG

POLITICS

Email: nseobong.okonekong@thisdaylive.com 08114495324 SMS ONLY

M O N D AY D I S C O U R S E The Battle for Edo: Winners and Losers Nseobong Okon-Ekong writes that the recently concluded Edo State governorship contest provided a springboard of promising new vistas for many, while it established a certain graveyard for burying the future of erstwhile political stalwarts

Secondus

Obaseki

Okowa

Shaibu

Oshiomhole

Ize-Iyamu

Tinubu

Okunbo

WINNERS Peoples Democratic Party: On the Rebound ith Edo safely in the kitty of states where its flag with the umbrella insignia is proudly flown in the Government House, the PDP has recorded a significant increase in territory. The entire South-south region is now totally under its grip, having previously won electoral contests in Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Delta, Bayelsa and Rivers.

The party recognised the strategic importance of regaining Edo, which maybe safely argued had always been a PDP state, until the 2008 court ruling that allowed what may described as an All Progressives Congress (APC) interregnum championed by the immediate past Governor of the state, Comrade Adam Oshiomhole.

Even in the 2019 national elections, the PDP garnered more National Assembly seats, namely two senatorial and the majority out of the nine federal lawmakers. So it was only natural that the leadership of the party provided a safe berth for Governor Godwin Obaseki when he was denied the ticket of the APC for a second term in office. Supported by his colleague governors including Nyesom Wike of Rivers, Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta, Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom and the National Chairman of the party, Prince Uche Secondus, Obaseki was seamlessly absorbed into the PDP. In the Edo axis, persoanlaities like Hon. Omoregie Ihama-Ogbeide, who represents Oredo Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives and Dr. Kenneth Imasuagbon who were strong contenders for the Edo PDP governorship ticket sacrificed their ambition to accommodate Obaseki in the PDP. In the end, the entire members of the PDP and its leadership are glowing in copious radiance at this notable victory.

accomplishment.

Osarodion Ogie, both men constituted the arrowhead of the political think-tank for Obaseki, helping him to execute in practical terms, some of the daring decisions that needed to unabashedly make a statement for Obaseki as a no-nonsense governor. For instance, Shaibu was believed to have supervised the exercise that stopped the 14 anti-Obaseki legislators from gaining access into the State House of Assembly. While the Governor concentrated on the all-important job of governance-formulation and implementation of state policies, Shaibu and Ogie made sure they captivate the ordinary folks on the street in favour of the Governor.

the party in the South-south. If that designation appeared to have been given to the wrong person, because his home state was not properly entrenched in the victorious PDP family, that notion has changed with the Obaseki victory

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Uche Secondus: Reclaiming Lost Glory Arguably, the most joyous person over the party’s victory in the 2020 Edo governorship election is the National Chairman of the PDP, Prince Uche Secondus. Previous outings by the party’s candidate in similar elections did not bring him an outright and overwhelming win like in Edo. This victory affords Secondus the privilege to thump his chest in deserving

Godwin Obaseki: Defied the Godfathers His political adversaries made the tragic mistake of thinking of him as an underdog, completely disregarding the fact t that he had so much fight in him. From a seeming disadvantaged position, Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State has completely turned the table against his former party, the APC and strengthened the capacity of the PDP to completely dominate the political landscape of Edo State. His triumph in the 2020 Edo governorship election means that a larger number of the people of the state trust his judgement and that he puts the interest of the people above self. By decidedly killing the political giant who was the immediate past Governor of the State, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, Obaseki successfully served Oshiomhole thesame bitter pill that the latter forced down the throat of the late PDP National Leader and party stalwart in Edo, Chief Tony Anenih. Going forward, Obaseki has become the new rallying point for voices of dissident against established political godfathers.

Ifeanyi Okowa: A Worthy Neigbour Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of the neighbouring Delta State, could not afford to shut his eyes to political activities in Edo State, particularly when Governor Godwin Obaseki was not only a colleague governor, but a member of the PDP family. Okowa dutifully joined Obaseki’s campaign train. He could also be seen in the border communities, between Edo and Delta, canvassing support for Obaseki.

Phillip Shuaibu: Commander of Obaseki’s Troops The acknowledged general and commander of the troops in the Governor Godwin Obaseki army would definitely have more myth built around his personality. One of such fables has it that Shaibu once came out of his car and walked into a hail of bullets fired by APC hoodlums.

Unarmed, he chased the enemies away, went back into his car and continued the journey. Shaibu is also popular among the youths for not only being a lover of, but actively playing soccer. Along with the Secretary to the Edo State Government,

Independent National Electoral Commission: Promise Fulfilled The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) may have redeemed its image which was tarnished, at least, by opposing political parties led by the PDP. As Professor Mahmood Yakubu may not be privileged to supervise another round of national elections, the broad perception that he is bowing out on a good note will prevail from the generally acknowledged conduct of a free and fair governorship election recently concluded in Edo. Though, the 2020 Edo governorship election came under the strenuous conditions occasioned by the COVID-19 global pandemic, INEC was able to rise to the occasion and discharge its obligations to the admiration of many right thinking persons.

Police and Other Law Enforcement Agents: Ready to Confront Real or Imaginary Threat The pre-election prediction of an electoral process that will be largely marred by violence prompted all the security agents to gird their loins and confront the real or or imaginary threat frontally. The result was a near-violent free election. Though isolated instances of brutality were reported, the alert disposition of the security agents and their readiness to respond to cases of infraction, kept would-be mischief makers at bay Dan Orbih: Happy End For eight years when he was Chairman of the PDP in Edo State, the party could not capture the prime political diadem However, Dan Orbih still commands a pride of place as the leader of

Anselm Ojezua: Tenacious to the End Chairman of the Obaseki faction (to some the recognised faction) of the APC, Anselm Ojezua led a band of loyalists who tactically remained in the APC but were with the Governor in spirit in the PDP. This group ensured that maximum damage was inflicted on the APC and its candidate, because for all intents and purposes, APC agents in a good number of the Polling Units were appointed by Ojezua and it stands to reason that he would only assign persons loyal to Obaseki.

Osagie Ethnan Uzamere: Significant Elevation The 38 year-old son of Senator Uzamere, Osagie Ethnan Uzamere was elevated to position of Chief of Staff to the Governor. Uzamere was appointed from his job as a Lagos-based investment banker to manage a very important aspect of the Governor’s relations, which can make or mar the administration.

Muhammadu Buhari : Providing Enabling Environment The successful conclusion of the 2020 Edo governorship election is a big plus for President Muhammadu Buhari, both locally and internationally. For ensuring that a level playing field was provided for the conduct of the election, even his ardent critics are persuaded to acknowledge this gracious deed. To his credit, the much feared deployment of an amorphous ‘federal might’ by the main opposition party was absent.

LOSERS All Progressives Congress: Dwindling Fortunes of a Non-Performer From its distinct position as the ruling party in Edo State, the table has turned completely against the APC. First, Governor Godwin Obaseki swtiched political party to the PDP and with that all APC insignia in Government House were pulled down and replaced with that of the PDP.

T H I S D AY ˾ MONDAY SEPTEMBER 21, 2020

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MONDAY DISCOURSE

How Edo Governorship Contest May Reform Nigerian Politicians

Nseobong Okon-Ekong writes that the recently concluded governorship election in Edo State may challenge certain long held assumptions by politicians

Obaseki at his Polling Unit

Ize-Iyamu being accredited to vote

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that hurtful and malicious words he had spoken against Ize-Iyamu in the run 2016 governorship campaign were exhumed and being splashed everywhere to counter his newfound love for the APC, flagbearer, he tried desperately, even seeking legal action to stop

Oshiomhole as Liability to Ize-Iyamu Strangely enough much of the ammunition that fed the propaganda machines of the PDP against the APC candidate were provided by the former National Chairman of the APC and immediate past Governor of the state, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole.

As the campaigns for the 2020 Edo State governorship election started and Oshiomhole realised, albeit with nail biting regrets

Was Oshiomhole telling lies against Ize-Iyamu in 2016 just to discredit him for political advantage? Though he knelt down before Edo elders and publicly admitted that he sold them a wrong candidate in the person of Obaseki in 2016, the damage against Ize-Iyamu was too irreparable. Many of the eminent persons that he ran to including the revered Benin Monarch, Oba Ewuare II found his new disposition funny and incomprehensible.

This was the same man Oshiomhole had told the public, four years ago, could not be trusted for manifold character flaws, reversing those statements without concrete or fundamental reasons presented Oshiomhole himself as one who is shifty

overnor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State arrived Port Harcourt the state capital yesterday from Benin City in Edo State, where he had just delivered on his assignment as head of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Campaign Council for the 2020 Edo State governorship election.

The PDP candidate and incumbent Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki defeated his closest rival, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu of the All Progressives Congress (APC) by over 84000 votes. That is by far more than the about 20000 votes that differentiated thesame two personalities when they were locked in a similar contest in 2016. At that time, in a curious reversal of political platforms, IzeIyamu represented the PDP, while Obaseki was the APC candidate.

the audiovisual messages from circulation, but he was denied. With his back against the wall, Oshiomhole found himself in an awkward situation where he had to deny obvious statements credited to him.

Was Oshiomhole telling lies against Ize-

Iyamu in 2016 just to discredit him for political advantage? Though he knelt down before Edo elders and publicly admitted that he sold them a wrong candidate in the person of Obaseki in 2016, the damage against Ize-Iyamu was too irreparable. Many of the eminent persons that he ran to including the revered Benin Monarch, Oba Ewuare II found his new disposition funny and incomprehensible. This was the same man Oshiomhole had told the public, four years ago, could not be trusted for manifold character flaws, reversing those statements without concrete or fundamental reasons presented Oshiomhole himself as one who is shifty.

It could be said of Oshiomhole that he provided the rope with which Ize-Iyamu’s 2020 political adventure was condemned to a tragic failure. In 2016, the perception of the people was that the governorship contest was between Oshiomhole and Ize-Iyamu. And the voted against Ize-Iyamu in preference for Oshiomhole’s candidate, Obaseki. This time, they voted Obaseki against Oshiomhole’s candidate, Ize-Iyamu, partly because Oshiomhole had previously damaged Ize-Iyamu’s character through unguarded malicious statements that haunted him, but moreso because Obaseki was now campaigning on the basis of the achievements of his administration, which

The Battle for Edo: Winners and Losers Finally, the APC governorship candidate, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu suffered a crushing defeat, scoring 223619 votes to the Governor’s 307955 votes. That is a huge 84376 votes that sank the APC governorship ship in Edo State irretrievably.

Adams Oshiomhole : End of a Godfather’s Dream For Adams Oshiomhole, erstwhile National Chairman of the APC and immediate past Governor of Edo State, trouble is dropping on him, not in trickles, but pouring like torrential rain, giving him no room to hide. What began like a child’s play when he was suspended by his Ward in Iyamho, Etsako West local government area of Edo, eventually led to his removal as National Chairman of the ruling party. The outcome of the 2020 governorship election in Edo State has finally demystified Oshiomhole and removed all the colourful apparels of the big masquerade, exposing his nakedness in public.

Mai Mala-Buni: Flunks First National Assignment Governor Mai Mala-Buni of Yobe State who heads the APC Interim Administration has suffered a setback in his first major outing as head of the party’s national leadership. It was the failure of the Mala-Buni led APC Caretaker Committee to broker peace between Oshiomhole and Obaseki that forced the Edo State governor to quit the party and seek the fulfilment of his dream of returning to govern the state in the PDP

Osagie Ize-Iyamu: No Where to Turn Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu has gone down in the political history of Edo State as the first candidate to lose a governorship contest on the ticket of two major political parties. In 2016, he held the ticket of the PDP and lost to the incumbent governor who vied on the platform of the APC. In the 2020 contest, the tables were switched.

This time Ize-Iyamu was the APC flagbearer, while Governor Obaseki wore the PDP colours.

Again, Obaseki thrashed Ize-Iyamu with over 84000 votes.

Bola Tinubu: Bloodied Nose The APC National Leader, Senator Bola Tinubu, must be regretting his open antagonism towards Godwin Obaseki. A teeming number of Edo people saw his intervention as an affront not only against the governor, but the entire people of the state. This led to deep resentment that spurn widely used aphorisms like, ‘Edo No Be Lagos’, ‘ Ibaseki No Be Ambode’ and ‘Oshiomhole No Be Tinubu’.

With this gambit, Tinubu may have endangered his political brand which might adversely affect his future presidential plan.

Hosa Okunbo: Thorough Defeat The wealthy businessman who boasted that he could spend his last Naira on Ize-Iyamu may have bankrolled the campaign of the 2020 APC Edo governorship candidate, but he was not able to muster support from voters to score a logical victory. He was thoroughly defeated in

his polling unit, which was won by the Peoples Democratic Party.

14 Anti-Obaseki Legislators Having been outsmarted by legislators loyal to Governor Obaseki on the evening of inauguration of the Edo State House of Assembly, they became pained and took their grouse to Oshiomhole.

What was initially a misunderstanding among family members was blown out of proportion and hardline positions were taken on either side, making resolution impossible. The legislators who were duly elected have still not been sworn in and their seats have been declared vacant. The attempt to muscle their way back was short lived.

Obaseki’s Aides Who Resigned: Taiwo Akerele – Chief of Staff John Mayaki – Chief Press Secretary Paul Ohonbamu – Commissioner Omua Oni-Okpako – Commissioner Monday Ogiegor – MD EDSTMA Christopher Adesotu – Chairman, Vocational and Technical Education Board Gabriel Oiboh – Chairman, Post Primary Education Board Osanyemwere Osawe – Member, Post Primary Education Board Fulani Yakubu Ekpeyoung – SSA Adeyanju Noah – SSA Cordelia M. Iyogun – SSA James Osheku – SSA Louis Osamuyi Osayande – SSA Ernest Unuaghon imina – SSA

Prince Lucky Igbinedion – SSA Chris Oseiwe Oribhabor – SSA Solomon Okoduwa – SSA Kennedy Itepu – SSA Sabbath Egbeyon – SSA Emike Obazee – SA Goodluck A. Uyigue – SA Razaq Rotimi – SA Olajide Victor Oloruyomi – SA Smart Bank – SA Bright Njor – SA Kingsley Ekueme – SA Joshua Akhabue – SA Oladele Ayotope Josiah – SA Boyi Magdalene – SA Osarobo Osaro Anthony – SA Aibangbee Chico – SA Obayagbona Augustine – SA Osamwonyi Atu – EDSOGPADEC Emmanuel Odigie – EDSOGPADEC Rilwanu Oshiomhole – EDSOGPADEC Okondoh Patrick Iyoha – OSM Director Maureen Osaro Ekhoragbon – Vice-Chairman Ovia North-East Aghedo Oscar – Secretary Ovia North-East Kehinde Garrick Osemwingie – Secretary, Uhumwonde LGC Otaniyen Igbinosa – Orhiomwon Supervisor Martins Ozakpolor – Orhiomwon Supervisor Vincent Ehibor – Orhiomwon Supervisor Mr. Christian Iweka -Orhionmwon Council Vice Chairman.

Mr Festus Omoruyi -S.AMedia to Council Chairman, Orhionmwon.

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T H I S D AY ˾ MONDAY SEPTEMBER 21, 2020

MONDAY DISCOURSE

Oshiomhole searching his pocket for his Voter’s Card the larger populace adjudged above average.

One of the likely outcomes of the 2020 Edo governorship election which will have profound implications for the rest of the country is that politicians will begin to bridle their tongue. Going forward, politicians know now that many a truth are said in jest. As Oshiomhole has found out, the power of life and death are in the tongue as the Bible says.

With his tongue he did incalculable damage to Ize-Iyamu and though he later sought to correct it, it was too. The false impression he sold to people had taken root.

The tragedy of the Oshiomhole-Ize-Iyamu episode should inspire a season of profound political campaigns when political party manifestos are canvassed vigorously by candidates and the public allowed to interrogate the method for their execution. As long as comic characters like Senator Dino Melaye continue to make a mockery of the serious business of governance by publishing ridiculous videos and all that Oshiomhole can do at political campaigns is to bounce up and down the stage like a rubber ball, the people who enjoy these comic relief are being shortchanged. And the country will continue to suffer developmental setbacks.

When the euphoria of the election is over, a round of soul searching by Ize-Iyamu should cause him to attack Oshiomhole, perhaps not in the malicious manner with which the latter slandered him, but it would not be out of place for Ize-Iyamu to call Oshiomhole out on the issue of serious damage to his reputation.

Perhaps, Ize-Iyamu could have done by far better or even upstaged Governor Obaseki if Oshiomhole had not made a mess of him.

In the final analysis, Ize-Iyamu’s association with Oshiomhole in the just concluded Edo governorship election was a colossal liability that he will regret for a long time. It may be too early to predict if Ize-Iyamu will give the governorship contest another attempt in 2024, but the clear message is that he may be forgiven if Oshiomhole is not even remotely linked to the effort.

However, the odds for the next Governor

of Edo State favour a candidate from Edo Central Senatorial district, which is one of the reasons, voters from that axis voted massively for the PDP, knowing that with a PDP win, they only have four years to wait, whereas if Ize-Iyamu had won, they probably would wait another eight years.

That is supposing that the Deputy Governor, Hon. Phillip Shaibu will not ask for his own pound of flesh having rejected all entreaties from his kinsman, Oshiomhole to do Governor Obaseki in. One thing is sure, however, the Binis may back Shaibu when the time is right for him to make a bid to rule the state. They may want to pay him a good turn for not backstabbing their son,Obaseki. For one thing, Shaibu is a courageous and reliable ally and he has demonstrated it.

PHOTO: NSEOBONG OKON-EKONG Obaseki as Poster Boy of Resistance For Obaseki, there may be an attraction to become arrogant, now that he has won. It is still early days to suggest his future interest in politics. Will he run for the Senate? No one knows. What is clear is that Obaseki’s hand has become strengthened. He has become the Poster Boy of resistance against influence of money bags and traditional wielders of power. He dared to defy and look them in the face; eyeball-to-eyeball. If he embraces the wisdom of not trying to choose his successor when the time comes, he may be allowed an unfettered reign in his hard won second tenure.

As things stand today, Obaseki is likely to be faced with the possibility of the same

Obaseki is likely to be faced with the possibility of the same challenges that forced his exit from the APC. He will be confronted with thesame problems which he had in the APC and that is considering political patronage. This has become a reality of our political culture as a nation. Governor Obaseki will have to find a way to confront and learn how to walk the tight rope, striking a winning balance between his obligations to the people, fulfilment of his campaign promises and meeting the expectations of the powers that be in the PDP. After all is said, Obaseki was an APC man forced into the PDP owing to the exigencies of the times. How will he accommodate those who held the PDP structure intact for him to takeover? He needs to demonstrate astuteness in welding together all the manifest interests in the PDP and marry them seamlessly with those who have travelled with him from the APC

challenges that forced his exit from the APC. He will be confronted with thesame problems which he had in the APC and that is considering political patronage. This has become a reality of our political culture as a nation.

Governor Obaseki will have to find a way to confront and learn how to walk the tight rope, striking a winning balance between his obligations to the people, fulfilment of his campaign promises and meeting the expectations of the powers that be in the PDP. After all is said, Obaseki was an APC man forced into the PDP owing to the exigencies of the times.

How will he accommodate those who held the PDP structure intact for him to takeover? He needs to demonstrate astuteness in welding together all the manifest interests in the PDP and marry them seamlessly with those who have travelled with him from the APC. In the typical Nigerian fashion of the winner having many relatives, while the loser is an orphan, many will desert the APC. Will Obaseki realise that he can’t do it all? Will he be able to say, ‘no’ to unnecessary requests and concentrate on the important tasks of leaving a legacy?

This is where statesmanship is required.

Obaseki entered a long drawn and unnecessary tussle for power which is now over, with him as the victor. In the interest of Edo State, he should reach out and extend a hand of fellowship to his compatriots. The truth is that this was a family feud that was mismanaged by all sides. It was a disagreement within the family that was blown out of proportion.

Though the recent Edo governorship contest has partly revealed that the platform on which a candidate runs does not matter.

Voters have shown a propensity to consider the character and track record of individual candidates. This assertion was made by Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, a past National Chairman of the APC and former Governor of Edo State who said though he is a member of the APC, but commended Obaseki for his positive vices and visible achievements. He could not understand why the APC would not support him “for some very funny reasons.”

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FEATURES

Group Features Editor: Chiemelie Ezeobi Email chiemelie.ezeobi@thisdaylive.com, 08038901925

Prioritising the Ogoniland Cleanup Even after funds have been made available by the federal government for the clean-up of the Niger Delta, there are still growing concerns over the implementation of the project, Maduabuchi Ubani writes

Eects of oil spill on aquatic life

Photo: Google

R

esidents in Ogoniland and communities across other Niger Delta regions in Nigeria are still hopeful about the cleanup exercise which is meant to restore the years of oil spillage and gas flaring epidemics that have ravaged their lands and aquatic life.

With contaminated water and their livelihood devastated due to six decades of commercial oil and gas production, chronic diseases and decreasing numbers of life expectancy among natives have significantly increased.

A recent study undertaken by the International Centre for Investigative Reporting (ICRR) indicates that the impact of oil pollution on public health and the urgent need to commence public health monitoring in Ogoniland, Rivers State should not be taken for granted.

This is because blood samples of indigenes from Bodo, Goi, K-Dere and Mogho in different Ogoniland communities have revealed rising cases of reproductive defects, DNA mutations, leukaemia and cancer of the lungs, bladder, bone, brain and scrotum.

Sign of Victory No wonder it came as a breath of fresh air that after years of endless demonstration, agitation and tussle with past administrations, the present administration paid attention to the cries of the region and commissioned the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) to undertake an environmental assessment in Ogoniland.

A report from the Federal Government of Nigeria Gazette ( vol 106, no 176, 12 December 2016) shows that The UNEP released its seminal report in 2011 and suggested to the Nigerian government to immediately implement emergency measures and also undertake the remediation of polluted sites in Ogoniland and the wider Niger Delta. This paved the way for a new platform.

Rise of HYPREP In response to the report of UNEP, the Nigerian government established the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) to implement the recommendation of the UNEP report in Ogoniland.

HYPREP has been in operation in Ogoniland for more than three years. A recent UNEP report shows that so far, HYPREP has undertaken surveys of water well in some Ogoniland communities.

They have also set up administrative structures and have recorded measurable progress in the second phase of the UNEP recommendationremedial work.

It should also be noted that HYPREP has

established a trust fund and has also conducted preliminary processes including health outreaches, training of technical assistants and handover of sites to contractors.

Problems of HYPREP Although HYPREP has recorded some milestones, different perceptions exist on the progress and success of the Ogoni remediation since its inception.

Some of the challenges of HYPREP include as noted in a document by Amnesty International and Friends of the Earth (FoEN) shows the inability of the 21 contractors in the phase one of remediation work to complete their allotted lots.

One of the strong recommendations on the part of HYPREP to enhance their work and delivery is to assess the overall funding required for the cleanup, remediation and restoration of Ogoniland within 25-30years

Another problem is the non availability of monitoring tools to be used by stakeholders to assess the quality of work done by HYPREP. There are concerns over the snail-pace nature of decision within HYPREP, re-pollution and artisanal refining, access to information, use of internationally accredited laboratories and even funding.

As at February 2020, HYPREP had received $360 million from the Joint Venture partners ( the polluters). In fact, HYPREP has reportedly spent only $38 million in three years.

Given their latest fiscal stewardship, stakeholders are concerned as to whether or not HYPREP has the capacity to expend funds.

Another challenge is the availability of a work plan that outlines projects and corresponding funds needed to achieve such milestones. The unavailability of a 25-30 years project plan and milestones poses a grave challenge to the spending capacity of HYPREP. Civil Society Intervention In their bid to unravel the true state of the remediation project in Ogoniland, the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) in collaboration with Cordaid have expressed concern over the level of politicking which seems to be enveloping the entire clean-up process which was conceived to restore, remediate, and rehabilitate the people of Ogoni and the Niger Delta region as a whole.

For CISLAC, HYPREP's claim of completing 70 per cent of the first phase of the clean-up

is a deliberate attempt to distract stakeholders from the focus of the clean-up.

To ascertain the 70 per cent claim by HYPREP, CISLAC is demanding that HYPREP should make public knowledge the independent monitoring organisation overseeing the clean-up process.

HYPREP is also demanded to produce a blueprint for livelihood restoration that covers all facets of stakeholders and impacted communities in Ogoniland and also produce the laboratory results of the six lots it claimed to have completed remediation works, amongst other demands.

"HYPREP seems to have independently developed the Key Perfomance Indicators (KPIs) without stakeholders inputs and also unwilling to share the same for public utilisation to monitor the success of the clean-up exercise,� said the Executive Director of CISLAC, Auwal Ibrahim Musa.

Although a framework for a definite intervention was provided in 2011 through the report of UNEP, Musa announced that issues surrounding contaminated land, groundwater, surface, water, sediment, vegetation and public health are yet to be resolved, thus endangering the lives of millions of citizens in the area. " What this means is that the institutional issues as well as recommendations and steps to be followed in carrying out the exercise have become victims of senseless politicking," he lamented.

Way Forward One of the strong recommendations on the part of HYPREP to enhance their work and delivery is to assess the overall funding required for the clean-up, remediation and restoration of Ogoniland within 25-30years. Also, HYPREP should as a matter of urgency provide a timeline for the provision of potable water drinking polluted water, especially in Elementary local council.

They are also expected to develop infrastructure for sustainable job creation and also set up a database for the information on the remediation process, amongst other things.

Other recommendations include the engaging roles of the government , communities and civil society organisation facilitating, developing, partnering and collaborating with one another to clean-up Ogoniland.

Given that the Ogoni clean-up is a multistakeholder project, the roles of the aforementioned players alongside the implementation of the UNEP recommendation for Ogoniland is invaluable in restoring the lost fascination of the Niger Delta.

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FEATURES

Research into Apprenticeship, Entrepreneurial Drive Unizik Business School and Dr Obiora Okonkwo, a renowned Igbo businessman, have launched a research into apprenticeship and entrepreneurial spirit, which has seen people from the Eastern region succeed in business, despite tough economic conditions, and most times, with little or no formal education, writes David-Chyddy Eleke

Director Unizik Business School, Prof Augustine Nonyelu

Founder, Pro-Value Humanity Foundation, Dr Obiora Okonkwo

O

“Such reinvention may also include mentorship, partnerships, financial assistance by way of soft loans, loan guarantees, among others between established businesses and emerging ones. These will help continue the Ora Nwezue Aku (let everyone have wealth) philosophy that was a key driving force of the apprenticeship scheme. As we all can agree, the only thing constant in life is change and we can either innovate and adjust to the times or gradually slide into irrelevance. “Further, it is vital that the project also help identify emergent entrepreneurial and investment opportunities, including hi-tech and biotech start-ups with potential value chains that current generation Igbo entrepreneurs can key into to help drive the re-industrialisation of Anambra State in particular and the south east in general. Unfortunately, many of our stupendously wealthy businessmen, along with their heirs, lack the knowledge about emergent investment opportunities that will not only make them richer, but also create jobs, hence they stick with merchandising that got them to where they are. “For the rapid economic transformation of our state, we must not be afraid to step out of our comfort zones and embrace innovative investment opportunities, the likes that this study will hopefully provide. In conducting the study, I encourage the researchers to focus on emergent investment opportunities that are particularly unique to Anambra State and the south east, which are our primary areas of interest,� Okonkwo charged.

The Director of UBS, Prof Augustine Nonyelu, in a welcome address, stated that the research would answer many questions that have remained unanswered about where the Igbo got their entrepreneurial spirit, and where also the apprenticeship model which has helped establish lots of young people who came straight from their villages, without formal education, to becoming multi millionaire businessmen, after a few years of apprenticeship.

He said, “It is common knowledge that the Igbo ethnic stock has over the years been pacesetters in commercial and entrepreneurial activities. The story of Igbo success and accomplishments in these fields resonates across the globe that even the remotest, unthinkable places, you find Igbo men and women, and their families, doing their thing, carrying out their legitimate businesses. Both at home and in the Diaspora, this exceptional Igbo entrepreneurship has come under the searchlight and in the radar that questions are being raised. “How did this new widely accepted entrepreneurial behaviour develop? Is it something

nitsha Main Market is reputed to be one of the largest market in the entire West Africa, with a large number of businessmen and women, most of whom are young people, who have successfully mastered the art of their trade, and carry it out with an admirable proficiency. What is however intriguing is that most of the operators in the market, even though they grew from the scratch to become importers of various product did not receive any formal education about how to run a business.

For UNIZIK Business School (UBS), business like every other area of endeavor requires the acquisition of formal knowledge to make success. The school also believes that it stands in good stead to impact such knowledge, while seeing its location; Awka, which is just a little distance away from Onitsha as an added advantage to businessmen in Onitsha who want to gain formal knowledge of what they do, in other to achieve success.

On the other hand, Dr Obiora Okonkwo, a Russian-trained political scientist, a leading businessman and philanthropist also has same belief as UBS management, but for a young man who started life in Onitsha as an apprentice trader, he also believes that acquiring skills in business through apprenticeship was also a potent way of being a great businessman.

Okonkwo will always recall those days when young men were sent from their villages with little or no education to serve as apprentice traders to already established businessmen, and after a specified number of years of service, the businessman ‘settles’ his apprentice by getting him a shop and a small amount of money, with which he begins his business as his own man.

It is the love for this model of acquisition of skills as a businessman and because of his days in apprenticeship in Onitsha too that made Okonkwo, through a non governmental organisation founded by him, Pro-Value Humanity Foundation, endowed a research with the UBS into the entrepreneurial spirit of Igbo people with Onitsha Main Market as a case study.

The launch of the research project, which would be carried out by renowned professors of the UBS, was recently held at Onitsha, with several business leaders in the city. Speaking during the launch of the research which was tagged; Reinvigorating Igbo entrepreneurial behavior through enhanced apprenticeship scheme, Dr Obiora Okonkwo, founder of Pro-Value Humanity Foundation said, “As some of you may be aware, the Onitsha Main Market holds a very special place in my heart, as that was where I had my first

stint in business, although briefly, and my encounter with modernity. I was born in Gombe in December 1965 and was a baby in arms when my family, like all Igbos, fled the north as a result of the pogrom that ultimately led to the civil war. “Following the war, my father, like every Igbo male, picked up the pieces and re-established himself at the Main Market dealing in beverages or what our people commonly call provisions. Unfortunately, few years later, he took ill forcing me to combine my high school education with managing the business and his apprentices.

That meant I went to school in the morning and continued at the Main Market in the afternoon and vice versa. “That basic trading experience, in many respects, helped hone my business instincts and also instilled in me a deep sense of industry and hard work that have defined my life’s journey to date. I remain eternally grateful to God for his immense blessings to me since those humble beginnings at the Main Market. Thus, when the UNIZIK Business School in July 2019 honoured me with the Philanthropist of the Year Award, it was only natural for me to try to give back by endowing a major research project on the future of Igbo entrepreneurship, drawing primarily from the role iconic the Onitsha Markets have played in the socio-economic transformation of the Igbo nation, particularly since the civil war; a phenomenon that best underscores the globally acclaimed ingenuity and indomitable spirit of our people. The research project is made possible through the instrumentality of the Pro-Value Humanity Foundation, a charity which I founded to be primarily concerned with recreating humanity through authentic human-centred development and reorientation of values.�

Okonkwo added that the research project is expected to, among other things; critically interrogate Igbo entrepreneurship culture and the apprenticeship system around which it is historically built, with a view to reinventing both in the light of emerging realities. He said it came as a heart warmer in 2017, when popular American Online media organisation, TED Talk hailed the Igbo business apprenticeship culture as one of the greatest and most innovative Venture Capital schemes in the world, albeit informally.

He said, “The apprenticeship scheme in its original model has, undoubtedly, served us well up to this point. However, the world of commerce is drastically changing and we must reinvent the apprenticeship system to be responsive to the business and industrial needs of today, along with the skills acquisition and value chain such new processes require.

embedded in the genetic composition of the Igbo or in their stars? What nurtured the tree of Igbo entrepreneurship? Was it the civil war, and the resultant denials, dislocation and disruptions of livelihoods that gave the impetus to resurgence and blossoming of Igbo entrepreneurial spirit and apprenticeship culture? “How did the Igbo apprenticeship scheme which has posted phenomenal success in the past come into being? What are the likely threats of the apprenticeship scheme and are there problems affecting transgenerational entrepreneurship among the Igbo? In trying to provide answers to the aforestated questions and more, came the need for a robust empirical research. The research we are about embarking on seeks to interrogate all of these and accompanying objectives.�

Speaker after speaker took time to also praise the entrepreneurship spirit of the average Igbo man, who has seen them survive in even the toughest conditions. But many also added the research will further help to move Igbo entrepreneurs from where they are to the need to build conglomerates that will outlive them.

The Director Economic Intelligence and Research, Onitsha Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, Mr Godson Amah in his speech stated that, "Most of the high-rise buildings you see in Onitsha today were built by people who did not go to school, but gained knowledge through apprenticeship.

The best way to gain entrepreneurship skills is through apprenticeship, but beyond that, our people must start learning how to build companies that will live even after they have gone. Ford Motors, Mercedes Benz and other top companies you see today were companies formed by individuals, but because of vision, they have outlived their owners. That is what our people must learn today."

Okonkwo in agreeing with various submissions said, "We have no doubt the researchers of the UBS will do justice to the subject. we cannot be prouder of the great city of Onitsha given its prominent historical place as the commercial nerve centre of the south east. The result of the research project, if fully harnessed, will help put the city and Anambra State on a pre-eminent development pedestal that other states in the south east and indeed the entire country will want to copy. “As Anambrarians in particular and Igbos in general, nothing is beyond us if we commit to it both individually and collectively as a people. I can’t wait to see us key into the findings of this research project as a way of revitalising entrepreneurship among our people. We must as usual seize the opportunity.�

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Quick Takes Patanmi, Danbatta, Others for IT Forum

13TH BANKING & FINANCE CONFERENCE

L-R: Registrar/CEO, Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN),Mr. Seye Awojobi; Minister of Finance, Federal Republic of Nigeria, Mrs. Zainab Ahmed; President/ChairmanofCouncil,CIBN,Mr.BayoOlugbemi;MD/CEO,EcobankNigeria/Chairman,PlanningCommitteeofthe13thAnnualBankingandFinance Conference,Mr.PatrickAkinwuntan;andFirstVicePresident,CIBN,Dr.KenOpara,duringthehybrid13thannualbankingandfinanceconferenceheldinAbuja... recently

We’re Well Equipped to Regulate Crypto Assets, Says SEC Stories by Goddy Egene The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has said the decision to regulate digital assets is part of determination to protect investors, explaining that it has the capacity to achieve the objective.

SEC had last week unveiled guidelines that would lead to regulation of regulating trade in crypto assets in the country, saying because digital assets offerings provide alternative investment opportunities for the investing public.

Speaking further on the development, Head, Registration, Exchanges, Market Infrastructure and Innovation, at SEC, Mr. Emomotimi Agama, said the commission wants to make sure that the market is safe and everyone is comfortable with what is going on in the investment climate.

He explained that last year, SEC launched the fintech roadmap and after which it went ahead to set up the block chain virtual

CAPITAL MARKET financial assets committee. “These committees are both market wide and principally done to engage the market, to be able to have discussions with the market and get their buy-in into what we are doing. “What we found out today is that a lot of persons, youths are all involved in this space and it is important that even as far as that is the case, the SEC lives up to the expectations that the Nigerian public has of it which is investor protection and making sure that those people that are getting into the business, the investors are protected. “Clearly, that is our aim and the market is part of this and indeed the feedback has been wonderful. People are happy with what we are doing, being able to provide some clarity as to where we stand in terms of digital assets regulation,� he said.

Agama explained said before coming out with the initiatives,

SEC did so much research, adding: “ I need to tell you that the Cambridge Centre for Alternative Finance has been partnering with the SEC and up to this point, we have been engaging with them and several of our staff members have been part of their programmes.� “The World Bank and other institutions are also working with us on Fintech to see that the Nigerian landscape is not left barren but guided with basic principles, we will not leave any stone unturned, but ensure that everyone within the SEC that has the responsibility to guiding investors and the populace in making sure we have an investment environment that people will be proud of is provided. “Capacity building is a continuous exercise, we will continue to upgrade ourselves, we will continue to learn because knowledge is for life,� Agama stated.

SEC had explained that the general objective of regulation was not to hinder technology or

stifle innovation, but to create standards that encourage ethical practices that ultimately make for a fair and efficient market. “The position of the commission is that virtual crypto assets are securities, unless proven otherwise. Thus, the burden of proving that the crypto assets proposed to be offered are not securities and therefore not under the jurisdiction of the SEC, is placed on the issuer or sponsor of the said assets,� it had stated.

SEC said Section 13 of the Investment and Securities Act, 2007 conferred powers on the it as the apex regulator of the Nigerian capital market to regulate investments and securities business in Nigeria. “In line with these powers, the SEC has adopted a threepronged objective to regulate innovation, hinged on safety, market deepening and providing solution to problems. This will guide its strategy, its regulations and its interaction with innovators Continued on page 24

Value of Equities Trading Rises 17% to N13 Billion The value of trading rose 17.1 per cent to N12.692 billion invested in 1.139 billion at the stock market last week, compared with N10.842 billion staked on 1.226 billion shares the previous week.

The increased value came despite a decline of 0.08 per cent in the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) All-Share Index (ASI) to close lower at 25,572.57.

Market analysts said trading would remain tepid in the absence of any positive catalyst and have urged investors to remain cautious.

CAPITAL MARKET “In the absence of a positive catalyst, and given the still uninspiring macro story, we guide investors to trade cautiously in the short term. However, we expect the market might benefit over the longer term on compelling valuations and as investors seek alpha-yielding opportunities in the face of negative real returns in the fixed income market,� analysts at Cordros Research said.

Meanwhile, a breakdown of the trading activity showed that

the financial services industry led the 870.300 million shares valued at N7.863 billion traded in 9,427deals. By this, the sector contributed 76.4 per cent and 61.9 per cent to the total equity turnover volume and value respectively.

The Industrial Goods industry came second with 62.689 million shares worth N1.162 billion in 1,557deals, the third place was occupied by the ICT industry, with a turnover of 50.859 million shares worth N2.552 billion in 619 deals.

Trading in the top three equities

namely: FBN Holdings Plc, Guaranty Trust Bank Plc and Access Bank Plc accounted for 353.048 million shares worth N4.018 billion in 3,095deals.

A total of 32 equities appreciated in price last week higher than 23 equities in the previous week, while 31 equities depreciated in price, lower than 38 equities in the previous week.

Wapic Insurance Plc led the price gainers with 12.1 per cent, trailed by Learn Africa Plc and Unity Bank Plc with

TheMinisterofCommunicationsandDigitalEconomy,Dr.IsaAliIbrahim Pantami, the Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Prof. Umar Danbatta, and other key players in the country’s Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector are set for the 2020 Nigeria Internet Governance Forum.

The ninth edition of the annual event, which will hold virtually this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, is scheduled for September 23rd to 24th, with the theme: A ‘ chieving Inclusive Digital Economic Development in the Post-COVID19 Era’.The forum will be chaired by the Permanent Secretary, FederalMinistryofCommunicationsandDigitalEconomy,Mr.IstifanusMusa.

In a statement, the organisers observed that the COVID-19 pandemic had exposed the critical importance of digital technologies in fostering inclusive national development and this necessitated the thematic focus of the conference, where the Nigeria Internet Governance Forum MultistakeholderAdvisoryGroup,thebodyoforganisersoftheevent,willcome together to discuss the way forward, as a community of Nigeria’s internet ecosystem.The theme of this year’s event ampliďŹ es how the focus of the group, from both the business and policy communities, is shifting from shaping a resilient Internet for societal sustainability to understanding the eect and impact of COVID-19 on individual and corporate lives and activities, especially with regard to women and the youths.

Katsina Agro Firm gets SON CertiďŹ cation

The Katsina State-based agro ďŹ rm, Greentide Agro Services has been awarded with the Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) certiďŹ cate of Mandatory Conformity Assessment Programme (MANCAP), to boost large scale production.

The State acting Coordinator of SON, Engr. Babangida Mainasara, presented the MANCAP certiďŹ cate to the Head of Human Resources of the ďŹ rm, Abubakar Garba Ammani at the organisation’s oďŹƒce in Katsina, recently. Greentide Agro Services, located in Funtua Local Government Areaofthestate,isafertilizerproducingcompanywithproductioncapacity of 90-tonnes per hour. Mainasara said the agro ďŹ rm was presented with the certiďŹ cate for adhering to the minimum requirements of the Nigerian Industrial Standard (NIS) for business operation in the country.

He reiterated that the tested parameters of the company have been satisďŹ ed and conforms with the minimum requirements of the NIS for compound fertilizer production and the code of practice for handling and storage of fertilizer. He said: “At this junction, I would like to on behalf of the director general and chief executive oďŹƒcer of the Standard Organisation of Nigeria present to you the MANCAP certiďŹ cate of quality for your NPK 20-10-10fertilizerasagreatstimulustolargescaleagriculturalproduction. “You are by this development, required to print the SON MANCAP logo on your packaging sack of the fertilizer as mark of quality with a validity period of three yearsâ€?.

Speaking shortly after receiving the certiďŹ cate, the Head of Human Resources of the company, Ammani, said the fertilizer branding company has the production capacity of 90 tonnes per hour.

AfDB Supports Mauritania with $2.1m

The African Development Bank’s (AfDB) Board has approved a grant of $2.1milliontoboostthecountry’sresilienceagainstclimaterelatedshocks and food insecurity. The funds, sourced from the African Development Fund, will go to provide technical and institutional support to strengthen Mauritania’s capacity to assess climate-related risk.

TheBankisextendingthefundingunderitsAfricaDisasterRiskFinancing (ADRIFI)programtoenablethecountrytotakeoutadroughtriskindex-based insurance policy that is expected to cushion Mauritania’s economy against the impacts of drought-related shocks, at a moment when the country is also reeling from the COVID-19 pandemic. “The African Development Bank is pleased that ADRiFi Mauritania will provide eďŹƒcient and timely ďŹ rst-response delivery to targeted beneďŹ ciaries in communities that will be aected by disasters, and will strengthen resilience to drought-linked disasters in Mauritania,â€? a statement quoted AtsukoToda, Bank Director for Agriculture, Finance and Rural Development for the Bank to have said.

Mauritania, a Saharan-Sahelian country, experiences irregular rainfall patternandrepeateddrought,whichhasaprofoundeectonfoodproduction and incomes.

“We must take all necessary steps to make sure that our transactions are known to the citizens of this country, that we do things for the common good of all of us and that in doing our business, we must ensure integrity �

GMD, NNPC

Continued on page 24

Mele Kyari

esteas d to able s of and help the mic, ainand nce mers

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BUSINESSWORLD WE’RE WELL EQUIPPED TO REGULATE CRYPTO ASSETS, SAYS SEC seeking legitimacy and relevance. “Consequently, the SEC will regulate crypto-token or crypto-coin investments when the character of the investments qualifies as securities transactions. “The commission explained that issuers or sponsors are expected to satisfy the burden of proving that the virtual assets do not constitute securities by making an initial assessment filing. “However, where the finding of the commission is that the virtual assets are indeed securities (not structured to be exclusively offered through crowd funding portals or other exempt methods), then the issuer or sponsor must register the digital assets,� the regulator had added.

SEC stated any person, (individual or corporate) whose activities involve any aspect of Blockchain-related and virtual digital asset services, must be registered by the commission and as such, will be subject to the regulatory guidelines.

VALUE OF EQUITIES TRADING RISES 17% TO N13 BILLION

9.6 per cent apiece. Neimeth International Pharmaceuticals Plc and Ikeja Hotels Plc garnered 9.5 each. CAP Plc and Berger Paints Nigeria Plc went up by 8.5 per cent and 7.4 per cent respectively.

Other top price gainers included: Union Bank of Nigeria Plc (7.0 per cent); Consolidated Hallmark Insurance Plc (6.9 per cent); and Prestige Assurance Plc (5.7 per cent).

Conversely, Associated Bus Company Plc led the price losers with 16.6 per cent, followed by NEM Insurance Plc with 9.7 per cent. Tripple Gee & Company Plc shed 9.0 per cent ,just as University Press Plc went down by 7.6 per cent.

Union Diagnostic & Clinical Services Plc and FCMB Group Plc shed 7.4 per cent and 6.3 per cent respectively. Cornerstone Insurance Plc and Nigerian Aviation Handling Company Plc depreciated by 6.1 per cent apiece. NPF Microfinance Bank Plc and International Breweries Plc shed 5.8 per cent and 5.7 per cent in that order.

NEWS

Rivers Community, Shell Sign GMoU, Inaugurate CDB on Assa North Gas Project Ernest Chinwo in Port Harcourt The Rivers State government and energy company, the Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited (SPDC), in Port Harcourt have inaugurated the Egi/Igburu Cluster Development Board (CDB) for pipeline communities to SPDC’s Assa North Gas project.

The project has a capacity for 300 million standard cubic feet of gas per day and the potential to be one of the largest domestic gas projects in Nigeria when completed.

The inauguration followed the signing of a global memorandum of understanding (GMoU) between Egi/Igburu communities and SPDC on the Assa North Gas project.

Inaugurating the CDB, Rivers State Commissioner for Chieftaincy and Community Affairs, Elloka Tasie-Amadi, urged the Orikoha Ekwueme-led newly elected officials of the CDB to use the opportunity of leadership to make positive impacts that would improve living standards in their communities.

He said, “The state government is always available to support you.

Always speak with your people, including the Community Trust Committees (which were also newly inaugurated). Adequate communication will ensure the buy-in of all your stakeholders.�

He decried those who see

leadership as opportunity for self-seeking gains. “Leadership is more of sacrifice; not an opportunity for personal benefit,� the Commissioner said.

Also, at the inauguration, SPDC General Manager External Relations, Mr. Igo Weli, said, “The Global Memorandum of Understanding (GMoU), that you signed today, sets the framework for long-term partnership between SPDC JV and the Egi/Igburu Cluster. The GMoU runs on the principle of community-led development. Today, SPDC JV

commits to providing funding to help you realise your community development aspirations.�

Weli, who was represented

by SPDC External Relations Manager for Projects and Opportunities, Dr. Banji Adekoya, asked the CDB to, “be prudent and implement projects and programmes that will deliver maximum benefits to the Egi/ Igburu communities.� “Note that government, SPDC JV and the communities that you represent will hold you accountable for the judicious utilisation

of the development funds. “With the inauguration, SPDC reiterates the company’s commitment to the Assa North Gas Project and to making it an exemplary one, particularly in Nigeria’s quest for energy sufficiency, for power generation and industrialisation,� he said. On its part, the new CDB committed to use the GMoU agreement, which is a communityled sustainable development and interface management model that puts the communities in the driving seat in setting development priorities and implementation

of programmes and projects, to meet their needs.

The GMOU is an approach introduced in 2006, adopted across SPDC’s operational areas and provides a secure five-year funding for communities to implement development projects of their choice. With the inauguration of the Egi/Igburu CDB, SPDC now has 40 active GMoUs in Abia, Bayelsa, Delta, Imo and Rivers States. Since 2006, SPDC JV has disbursed a total of $252 million to communities through these GMoUs.

COURTESYVISIT

L-R: Deputy Commandant and Head of Admin, Lagos, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Daniel Apeh; Treasurer, Association of Licensed Private Security Practitioners of Nigeria (ALPSPN), Mr. Kelechi Obiakwata; Chairman, Mr. Babatunde Mumuni; NSCDC Lagos State Commandant, Makinde Ayinla,andVice-ChairmanALPSPN,Dr.NzeribeOkegbue,duringarecentcourtesyvisitoftheassociationtotheNSCDCinLagos...recently

FG Lobbies Iran for WTO Vote, Strengthens Bilateral Agreements James Emejo in Abuja The federal government has solicited the support of the Islamic Republic of Iran’s vote for Nigeria’s candidate for the position of the Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iwela ahead of the forth-coming election.

The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Mr. Adeniyi Adebayo, disclosed this when the Iranian Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Mohammed Alibak, paid him a courtesy visit in Abuja.

He said Nigeria would rely on Iran’s support for the election of

Okonjo-Iwela as the next DG for WTO, stressing that if elected it would be the first time an African will occupy the position since its establishment on January 1, 1995.

He, however, noted that the Bilateral Trade Agreements (BTA) earlier signed between both countries in 2001, Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (IPPA) in 2008, the establishment of Nigeria-Iran Joint Commission in 2004 and Iran Chamber, Industry, Mines and Agriculture in 2016 should be sustained. The minister further assured the Iranian envoy of his commitment to ensuring that the

agreements were renewed. He said: “I assured you that my team is in the process of renewing these commitments and I will explore you to get your team to work with ours to appraise the current situation of these agreements and kick-start efforts toward renewal and implementation of our mutually beneficial commitments.�

He also called on Iranian investors to come to invest in the numerous Export Processing Zones (EPZs) in the country in view of the various incentives available to investors as well as pursue partnerships in the economic development initiatives in sectors

including fertilizer production, tractor assembly, persian rug manufacturing, mines and steel industries and garment production.

Adebayo further assured the ambassador that Nigeria would work with Iran to improve on the current low trade volumes as both countries had great potential they could leverage on considering that both are oil dependent economies.

He said: “We can also share knowledge and best practices on economic diversification and our national development goals as Buhari’s led Administration is pushing to diversify the economy into the non-oil sector through

various initiatives and a strategic partnership in the industrialisation of key sectors that can boost efforts towards export of Iran and Nigeria.� Earlier, Alibak said Iran was willing to help Nigeria in the areas of technology development, water supply and engineering among others, adding that an invitation will be sent to the minister to visit the agricultural industrial machinery show in Iran.

He also stressed on the need to have a joint commission between the two countries as Nigeria is currently a dominant force in Africa in terms of trading with Iran.

FG Reaffirms Commitment to Friendly Business Climate

James Emejo in Abuja

Group Business Editor

Obinna Chima

Capital Market Editor

Goddy Egene

Comms/e-Business Editor

Emma Okonji

Senior Correspondent

Raheem Akingbolu (Advertising)

The Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Mrs. Mariam Katagum has restated the federal government’s continued commitment to providing conducive environment for operators in the micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the country.

Speaking during the virtual commissioning of the Fashion Cluster Shared Facility for MSMEs tagged: “Eko Fashion Hub,� in

Lagos at the weekend, she said the event was a testimony to the continued commitment of the government to providing a conducive atmosphere for operators in the MSME space.

According to her, the establishment of shared common facilities, represented one of the key take away from the organisation of MSME Clinics across the country.

She pointed out that the provision of shared facilities was being complemented by activities in the

in her ministry, adding that the concept had been found to be effective tools to minimise the infrastructural challenges that had inhibited MSMEs overtime.

In a statement issued by the Assistant Director Information, FMITI, Mrs. Oluwakemi Ogunmakinwa, Katagum maintained that the federal government was fully committed to empowering Nigerians, particularly in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The minister said President

Buhari’s administration through the Economic Sustainability Committee had announced specific programmes aimed at cushioning the impact of the pandemic on MSME businesses through various interventions including the N75 billion MSME Survival Fund and Guaranteed Offtake Schemes.

She explained that both schemes were at the core of the N2.3 trillion stimulus package of the Nigeria Economic Sustainability Plan (NESP) recently being

implemented to help cushion the impact of COVID-19 with a view to boosting the economy by saving existing jobs and creating new job opportunities.

She, however, congratulated MSMEs across the country, urging them to take full advantage of the government’s various palliatives to improve their businesses, adding that, �It is my belief that this initiative has come at the right time for MSMEs in Lagos State in particular, and Nigeria in general�.

Correspondents

Chinedu Eze (Aviation) Eromosele Abiodun (Maritime) James Emejo (Finance) Ebere Nwoji (Insurance) Chineme Okafor (Energy) Reporters

Nume Ekeghe (Money Market) Nosa Alekhuogie (ICT) Emmanuel Addeh (Energy) Peter Uzoho (Energy)

Member States to Nominate Candidates for Next IFAD President Oluchi Chibuzor The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) has called on its 177 member states to nominate candidates for the Fund’s next president.

The President is IFAD’s most

senior position with responsibility for leading the organisation and chairing its Executive Board.

The President of IFAD serves a four-year term, which is renewable once.

The person to be appointed president is expected to as-

sume office on April 1, 2021.

In a statement, IFAD which is a specialised United Nations agency and international financial institution focused on the alleviation of rural poverty and hunger, informed its member states of the nomination and

appointment process.

According to the statement, nominations for president can only be made by IFAD member states and must be received by the Secretary of IFAD not later than November 23, 2020.

It added that: “The President

will lead IFAD at a crucial time.

The COVID-19 pandemic is predicted to leave more than 83 million people hungry by the end of the year, and raise the number of people living in poverty for the first time in decades.

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MONDAY INTERVIEW

Adeniran: Surveying Can Rescue Nigeria from Underdevelopment Surveyor General of the Federation, Mr. Taiwo Adeniran, who heads Nigeria’s apex office in surveying and mapping, in this interview argues that most of the problems in the country can be solved if adequate attention is paid to surveying and all the activities surrounding it. Emmanuel Addeh brings the excerpts A major theme that runs through all your events is the use of the word ‘geospatial information’. What is it and what is its relevance to our everyday activities.

Geospatial data are information relating to hard surfaces, it’s about the features, either natural or man-made. ‘Geo’ means earth and the ‘spatial’ is how related the features or the hard surfaces are. To use a very simple illustration, when you see a survey plan, it is important for you to know the area of land at your disposal. A survey plan is for you to know the topography or relief or behaviour of the land, whether hilly, flat, rough or undulating or what we call topographical survey. You also want to know where it is relatively situated on the hard surface or where in the environment because you are not the only person who has land there otherwise there will be an overlap.

The area, topography, location, direction it is, all these are geospatial information about that property and these are unique to that piece of land or cadastral which is taken from the word cadastre which is information or a register about a property.

From the cadastral survey, you get other attributes about the owner, the signs, the transactions on the land, from whom it was bought etc. All these information are what we call geospatial information or data.

If you want to do anything relating to physical development, you need to have this map. Geospatial information are the attributes or features of the hard surface that can be reproduced with scale. The SDGs we want to achieve by 2030, without geospatial information, we can’t achieve anything. It is a tool for planning.

What is the level of collaboration between your ofďŹ ce and other government institutions and agencies?

I said earlier that survey and geo-informatics are useful in all sectors. When I assumed this seat, I realised we should stop talking to ourselves for a moment and start talking to the public and non-surveyors. The work we do is relevant in practically all sectors.

The other day I went to visit the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and in the course of deliberation a lot of things were revealed. We were talking about terrorism, about issues in Katsina, Zamfara and all those places. To really be able to police that space properly, you need geospatial data to give you information about that forest area. That’s part of our job.

The other time I was talking about thematic maps. The theme is determined by the work you put the land to. We have a questionnaire on that we have prepared because as we are saying that all sectors need geospatial information, we must know exactly which one they need. For agencies that we have been privileged to work with, we do that.

They will tell us the mandate, responsibility, plans, deliverables in terms of output and outcome.

For example the HDMI project, we need to know the particular area we are intervening.

But it is the responsibility of this office to provide them with geospatial information.

Aside the police are there speciďŹ c areas of cooperation with other organisations?

As I speak with you, we have an MOU with the Nigeria Tourism Devenopment Corporation (NTDC) and you wonder what surveying and geo-informatics is doing in tourism.

If you go abroad, you just see a street guide which you take for free. Yes, the digital version is still there, but the street guide is a geospatial information because there is so much information there. We are doing a similar thing and we are partnering with the tourism sector. Behind it, we will carry along those in hospitality business, tourism , and other incidental activities to tourism. The surveyor general provides the street guides and the NTDC will show where people can find comfortable places while in Nigeria.

There are places people can visit to have

Adeniran the correct perception about this great country.

A lot of people don’t know we have so many beautiful things in Nigeria and we see it as our responsibility to do that. I can go on and on.

Going through your statutory duties, there seems to be an overlapping of functions between your ofďŹ ce and the National Boundary Commission (NBC).

Do you have clashes sometimes?

No, we don’t clash. The NBC was formed from the old federal surveys. This office before 2005, used to be known as federal surveys which was established in 1954. The surveys handled both the technical aspect of boundary demarcation and then the adjudication aspect.

There are two aspects to boundary demarcation and delineation. The technical, where you go on ground and delineate physically and then the adjudication where you talk about treaties, agreements and descriptions. There are about six stages in boundary demarcation.

The first stage is allocation, then delimitation, agreement drafting and treaty writing, before demarcation and the last is maintenance, that’s land clearing. Of the six stages, the first three has to do with adjudication. This office is the technical partners to the boundary commission.

We don’t clash. Our responsibilities are clear.

Of course, there are surveyors in NBC. As a matter of fact, the Vice President is the Chairman of the NBC board and my supervising minister is also a member of that board. We work together in harmony. The NBC was taken from the federal surveys.

From your explanation, this ofďŹ ce looks like such a big one and you are rooted in every organisation. It’s like everybody needs a surveyor. You have so much to do. How do you get funding?

To quickly answer that, we don’t have enough and it’s not only us. Nobody can have enough of anything. But at this juncture, I want to commend the federal government and my supervisory minister. He is a surveyor’s delight.

He was the governor of Lagos state and he

understands survey more than so many people.

One of the problems is that a lot of people, even the elite, don’t know what we do and to a large extent we take responsibility for that and we want to keep talking to people.

Government is trying because it’s not just survey that requires money. Education is there, health is there, agric etc. And again, you must be able to show government what you are doing with the money. We need to explain to them, even a lot of government institutions or government activities will not work without some of these things. I have also repeatedly said that there are four criteria for good governance. One is planning, second is adequate geo-informatics in the correct quality, quantity and format, then finance and human capacity. There was a time, the United Nations actually recommended that two and a half per cent of the national budget should be used for survey and geo-informatics. They knew what they were talking about.

It is until you have done that, which you can actually begin to explore and enjoy the potential in an environment. I was telling my supervising minister that by the time he paid attention to geospatial information when he was in Lagos, the IGR jumped from N7 billion to N23 billion. He said it wasn’t only the geospatial information that aided that, but he admitted that it played a huge role. For instance, if you want to buy a piece of land and someone shows you a land document.

How do you verify if it’s genuine? How do you know you are not talking to fraudsters?

In some countries, I just need to give you my name or a photocopy of that document, then you go and get a scratch card and go online, check the property.

It will show you all transactions on that price of land, the name of the person who sold the land will be there. Then you are rest assured that it’s genuine. There’s nowhere you can do that here although we are working towards it.

regional planning system. What can surveyors do in collaboration with town planners in that respect?

Let me make one clarification. It is not the responsibility of the surveyor to plan the country. It is true that we get or gather geospatial information and then we give advice how to utilise land appropriately.

There some other sister professionals called town planners. And you will agree with me that land is vested in state governors. The responsibility of developing control is on the state government. That’s what we have been talking about. The responsibility to plan our environment properly lies in the town planners in the state. Of course some of the property belong to the federal government, the town planners in the federal government are also doing their bits. But you know just like we are trying to bring what we do to the knowledge of the public and they can appreciate it, the same thing applies to the twin planner. A lot of people still build houses without approval.

That’s why they normally go out to demolish.

To a large extent, they are in the same boat with us. A lot of people don’t know. A lot of people build on flood plains which they should not. I have been listening to some jingles where the FCT authorities are telling people not to build houses without approval. But our people don’t adhere to these things. It borders on awareness and education. If people are educated they will know. Our responsibility is to provide the model of the environment, then it is the responsibility of other professionals to come in and do their bits.

Nigeria has a very chaotic urban and

Continued on page 26

Each state has its own ofďŹ ce of the surveyor general. Does your ofďŹ ce have any relationship with them?

States to a large extent are autonomous in some areas of governance. When it comes to survey, states can do surveys on their own.

That’s why they are on the concurrent legislative list, even local governments. They have

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BUSINESSWORLD

INTERVIEW

ADENIRAN: SURVEYING CAN RESCUE NIGERIA FROM UNDERDEVELOPMENT

Adeniran their own authority and powers. Now, the survey coordination conference , is not just for the surveyor general but lecturers in higher institutions. All of us will come together. It is at this conference we present reports and everybody will know what his other colleagues are doing. The purpose of the meeting is to harmonise surveying activities in the country.

It is also to know what other survey outfits are doing and be able to advise institutions on the new curriculum to align with current developments, like the one we just held on SDGs and good governance.

Majority of Nigerians do not really think they need a surveyor. Why should the average Nigerian get the services of a surveyor?

You need a surveyor to know the amount of property at your disposal. Where your land is and to be able to produce a title for your property. And when I say title, they add value to your property and unlock the capital in the property. A lot of property are useless, a lot of people are suffering amid plenty. If your property is well surveyed and then you get C of O for it, it’s a good collateral for you to secure money to actually do some other things.

Of the four factors of production, land and capital are intertwined. You can change your land to capital, especially good land. When I say good land, it means land without any encumbrances. It should be able to translate into something that can alleviate poverty for you. It was one of the reasons former president Umar Yar’adua made it one of his seven point agenda to do land reforms.

Although they are still working on it, had it been we were able to get through the land reforms through systematic land registration, it would have been easier and faster for everybody to secure their land and get good title without encumbrances. Another one is that when you are in an environment and you don’t do survey, you will not know where the drainages will pass. A lot of people live in estates where water gather in one corner. Without survey, you don’t even know the amount of land at your disposal. You can’t plan your land without survey. An unplanned land doesn’t have much value. Sometimes, you are not able to get vehicle to your house. There are environments where people park their cars on the road and then enter through a pathway to their houses. It’s because that environment wasn’t surveyed ab initio.

We have a slogan here that “if you cannot map it, you cannot manage it�. When you map your land properly, the land will be judiciously and effectively used and it will grow and improve in value.

Any property that is not well planned, won’t have value. The value of a piece of land in Maitama grows astronomically compared for

‘Naira Crashes 108% against CFA? No, it’s not So

Mike Obadan example to an unplanned area.

Don’t you think that government also makes things difďŹ cult by making the process too cumbersome and expensive?

That has been established. And that’s why we brought land reforms when late president Yar’adua became president. If you look at the responsibility and terms of reference of the land reforms, you will see that about 80 per cent of it is about surveying and mapping.

It is true that processes to get C of O are tortuous. That’s why the land reforms was established to reduce the time of transaction to get C of O. The federal government is working on that. One of the tools we need for it is a base map for the whole country which will help us get there quickly. In some states, to a large extent, the processes have been reduced, but that’s why the land reforms are important.

Finally, you have been in ofďŹ ce now for some 8-10 months, are there major achievements you want us to know about?

We are mapping the covid-19 pandemic on a daily basis. We will interface with the DG NCDC to give us the test centres and the health facilities around them to be able to map them so that peradventure we bring in the vaccines, we will hit the ground running.

We have been able to do that. We are talking to lots of institutions. I just mentioned the forest mapping with the Nigeria police, it is on. There’s our collaboration between this office and the NTDC. We are going into partnership, because we have a printing press that the capacity of it or its potential, this office alone cannot consume it.

We are collaborating with people from outside to come and manage the printing press for us and we have reached an advanced stage.

We also have some equipment, boats, high accuracy GPS, drones and a commercial department where we formulate some of these business activities. The people to start using our boats for hydrographic activities around our coast have reached advanced stages of talks with us.

My supervising minister has been involving us fully in activities at the ministry. We have been doing the Right of Way (RoW) survey in the ministry. We are going to see the survey content in all the activities in the ministry, the basis on which we tell the government we need to come in.

Our three areas of focus are impact, relevance, people must know that this office is relevant to our developmental processes. It’s even one of the reasons we have not developed past the level we are right now.

The other day there was an explosive in Ejigbo. If we had been doing all these things all the while, peradventure there wouldn’t have been such a thing. We are also trying to have

The Guardian newspaper of August 24, 2020 had the front page headline titled “Naira Crashes 108 per cent against CFA,�

by Geoff Iyatse. In a similar vein, one has read, or heard of other pronouncements, in the past that the naira depreciated by hundreds of percentage points.

The CFA is the currency used by the Franco-phone groups of countries in West Africa and Central Africa. It has a strong link to the French franc.

The reported crash of the naira relates to the West African CFA. The important question is whether the naira actually crashed by 108 per cent. By “crashed,� the author meant that the naira depreciated, invariably brought about by the market forces of demand for and supply of foreign exchange under a flexible exchange rate system.

If the monetary authority/government had deliberately reduced the value of the Naira, then the currency would have been said to be devalued. However, the effects of depreciation/devaluation are the same.

For the purpose of enlightenment, this article will show that the naira did not crash or depreciate by 108 per cent and that it is not possible for a currency to depreciate by more than 100 per cent considering what the exchange rate is as a relative price.

Depreciation by 100 per cent or more makes the currency useless, that is, it has no value in terms of foreign currency.

Generally, the nominal exchange rate, or simply exchange rate, is a relative price.

It is the price of one currency in terms of another currency.

If we consider the naira and the US dollar, the current exchange rate in the foreign exchange market is about N385 to US$1, that is, N385 exchange for one US dollar.

This is actually the dollar exchange rate as it shows the units of naira that can buy one US dollar.

From this exchange rate, we can obtain the naira exchange rate, which shows the units of dollar that exchange for N1 as US$1/ N385. This gives us US$0.0026 or 0.26 cents.

What is clear then is that the exchange rate can be expressed in two ways: One, as the price of foreign currency in terms of the units of the local currency or two, as the price of local currency in terms of the units of a foreign currency. Both approaches yield the same implications.

In this regard, the Naira is said to depreciate when more of it is required to purchase a unit of dollar or less units of the dollar is required to purchase one naira. In both cases the naira loses value in terms of dollar.

Of note is that when we express the exchange rate in terms of the amount of

dollars that exchange for the Naira, we can easily see the proportion by which the naira has depreciated or appreciated (reduced/ increased) in terms of dollar.

The value of the naira is determined by how many units of dollar that exchanges for it. In the Nigerian foreign exchange market, the approach of units of naira per dollar is used. This approach tells us immediately by how much the price of international goods has risen/fallen relative to domestic prices.

We can calculate the rate of depreciation with either of the two definitions of exchange rate. But it is easier to understand the depreciation or appreciation (increase in the value of the currency) of the naira using the definition of CFA per naira.

In the report on the naira crash by 108 per cent over a five-year period, it was stated that the exchange rate moved from 33 kobo or N0.33 to CFA1 or N1 to CFA 3.03 in August 2015 to CFA 0.6888 to N 1.0 in August 2020.

This means that the value of the naira during the period, in terms of CFA, reduced from 3.03CFA in 2015 to 0.6888 CFA in August 2020.

In this case, the rate of depreciation/ devaluation is simply the exchange rate in 2020 minus the exchange rate in 2015 divided by the exchange rate in 2015, that is, (0.6888 – 3.03) / 3.03 which equals -77.3 per cent.

If we calculate the depreciation with the units of naira per CFA, the rate of depreciation will be units of naira per CFA in 2020 minus units of CFA per naira in 2015 divided by the units of naira per CFA in 2020. The rate of depreciation would be the same: -77.3 per cent.

As depreciation/devaluation means loss of value for a national currency in terms of a foreign currency, it can easily be shown that as larger and larger quantities of naira are exchanged for one CFA, that is, continuous depreciation/devaluation of the Naira, its foreign exchange value also gradually reduces.

Consequently, the purchasing power of the naira in terms of imported goods and services becomes smaller and smaller. However, the cumulative depreciation/devaluation moves closer and closer to 100 percent, that is, in asymptotic manner. Assuming that the currency loses 100 per cent of its value, it then becomes useless. Thus, there cannot be depreciation of a currency by more than 100 percent. t 0CBEBO JT B 1SPGFTTPS PG &DPOPNJDT BOE $IBJSNBO (PMENBSL &EVDBUJPO "DBEFNZ #FOJO $JUZ )F JT BMTP UIF GPSNFS %JSFDUPS (FOFSBM /BUJPOBM $FOUSF GPS &DPOPNJD .BOBHFNFOU BOE "ENJOJTUSBUJPO *CBEBO /JHFSJB & NBJM NJLPCBEBO!HNBJM DPN 5FM

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Nigeria at 60 Logo Not Plagiarised, Firms Insist Maduabuchi Ubani Nigerian agencies- Chain Reactions Nigeria, TBWA Africa and The Temple Management Company, which jointly created the Nigeria @ 60 logo have refuted news making the rounds that the logo was plagiarised.

According to a joint statement at the weekend, the firms stated: “The attention of Chain Reactions Nigeria, The Temple Management and TBWA Africa has been drawn to an unfortunate conversation in some sections of the online media regarding the recently unveiled logo for the Nigerian Diamond Jubilee Celebration (Nigeria at 60) by President Muhammadu Buhari (GCFR). “Few hours after the unveiling of the Nigeria at sixth anniversary logo, myriads of reviews poured in from different stakeholders across the country as expected. As envisaged, the views expressed are symbolic of our diversity as a nation. In fact, it captures what we are celebrating.�

The statement further said, “This isn’t surprising as major brands and government initiatives have undergone barrage of condemnations and commendations in times past. Are we surprised? No,� the statement quoted the chief executive officer of Chain Reactions Nigeria, Mr. Israel Opayemi, to have stated Opayemi said it was commendable that the federal government engaged the services of Nigerian professionals to develop the thematic direction, campaign strategy and the logo for the Diamond Jubilee celebration pro bono. “In the past, you would

have heard that the Nigerian government engaged the services of some foreign agencies for some nerve-cracking and ridiculous sum of money.�

Opayemi emphasised.

On the plagiarism, the statement read, “The primary allegation of plagiarism on the unveiled logo deserves a quick dissection. To Plagiarise, according to Oxford Language Dictionary, is to take someone else’s work or ideas and pass them off as one’s own.�

Interestingly, the emptiness of this narrative lies in the fact that peddlers perhaps do not understand the meaning or they feigned ignorance so as to drive their usual hatred for the Nigerian government. “To meet the qualified meaning of this definition, it means the Nigerian professionals who designed the campaign picked another logo that is exactly like this or similar to this and delivered it to the Federal government. Have they shown Nigerians the logo that looks exactly like the Nigeria @ 60 logo from another jurisdiction,� Opayemi asked rhetorically.

He said, Instead of saying that the diamond looks similar to the one they found on the internet, they have disingenuously alleged that Nigeria plagiarised her 60th Anniversary logo. What a convenient narrative but a disservice to our fatherland.

A quick check on the internet shows that there are thousands of diamonds with crystals that look alike. The images on the Internet are there in any way for creative usage and purposes. Some are backed by rights and paid for while others are free.

Hero Lager Rewards Consumer in Promo Raheem Akingbolu The first batch of winners have emerged in the on-going Hero ‘Under the Crown’ Consumer Promotion tagged, “Rise like a Hero�.

An initiative of premium lager, Hero, the nationwide campaign which kicked off recently has produced 10 millionaires in different locations across the country.

The grand draw winners were not the only ones who have been given a reason to smile by the brand.

More than 250,000 winners of several prizes ranging from airtime to cash prizes have also reaped from the beer brand’s generosity to its teeming consumers.

Speaking on the emergence of the winners, Marketing Director, International Breweries, Tolulope Adedeji reiterated the brand’s commitment to putting a smile on the face of its consumers. “We are delighted that some millionaires have emerged through the Rise Like a Hero campaign because that’s exactly what we hoped to achieve with the promo. It’s not enough to say we care; we must demonstrate it, and that’s what we set out to do at this time,� she said.

Adedeji also noted that Hero was keen on celebrating the resilient spirit of Nigerians.

The winners in the ‘one million naira’ promo emerged from the draws which were conducted over the last couple of weeks and the presentations were held in the various locations respectively.

The consumer promo is targeted at recognising and celebrating the tenacity and resilience of the average Nigerian and is still open to individuals who are 18 years old and over.

While picking up his cash prize, one of the winners, an ecstatic Edafe John stated that the Hero grand prize represented more than a financial relief for him.

Aba winner, Otu Ewor, and Aniah Emmanuel who won in Calabar could not contain their excitement on being among the first set of winners in the Rise Like a Hero campaign.

During the presentation of prizes to the lucky winners, Marketing Manager, Hero, Margaret Igabali, explained that in line with the promise made at the commencement of the promo, Hero is on a quest to make life easier for the average Nigerian who remains dauntless in the face of numerous challenges.

Lafarge Africa MD Explains Factors Responsible for Improved Results Goddy Egene The Chief Executive Officer of Lafarge Africa Plc, Mr. Khaled El Dokani, has said proactive measures put in place have been instrumental to the positive results the company has recorded in recent times.

Lafarge Africa reported a jump of 89 per cent in profit after tax to N23.329 billion for the half year ended June 30, 2020, compared with N9 billion in 2019.

Speaking at the, ‘Facts Behind the Figures,’ presentation at the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) last week, El Dokani said the health and safety of employees, communities and other stakeholders remain at the heart of their operations especially at this time with the COVID-19 Pandemic.

“Our route-to-market strategy has proven to be effective, particularly, our expanded distribution network which proved very valuable during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown.

We have steadily expanded our retail footprint in our core markets. The recent re-launch of our Supaset brand has continued to gain traction with our customers, especially with the block makers,� he explained.

According to him, the majority of Lafarge Africa plants are environmental management system (EMS) certified to ISO 14001:2015, noting that Lafarge Africa’s initiatives are designed to contribute to the attainment of the Sustainability Development Goals. “The company commits to

best practices such as minimizing the use of water and replacing sources of water in communities, adopting non-polluting forms of renewable energy and recycling materials,� he added.

In his remarks, the CEO of the NSE, Mr. Oscar Onyema, said the Exchange recognises efforts made by the board and management of Lafarge Africa Plc towards achieving business continuity by improving operations and restoring investor confidence in the company. “Indeed, the growth recorded in the company’s 2020 half year financial performance shows the strategic resolve and dedication of the board and management of this esteemed company. The exchange also commends the company’s efforts

in curbing the spread of Covid-19 and its recent interventions and donations to support national efforts towards cushioning the effect of the pandemic on the Nigerian populace,� Onyema said.

He assured that the NSE would continue to provide a platform to support listed companies in meeting their strategic business objectives. “We will continue to position ourselves as the African exchange of choice for issuers and investors by implementing policies aimed at strengthening the corporate governance of our listed companies and providing products that are aligned to investors’ requirements in a fair and orderly market,� the NSE boss said.

STAKEHOLDERS’FORUM

L-R: Chairman, League of Airports and Aviation Correspondents (LAAC), Mr. Olusegun Koiki; Director General, Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), CaptainMusaNuhu,andGeneralManager,PublicRelations,Mr.SamAdurogboye,duringaforumheldinLagos...recently KOLAWOLE ALLI

NiMet Supports Water Resources Institute in Establishing Regional Hydrology Centre Kasim Sumaina in Abuja The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), has pledged its full cooperation to the National Water Resources Institute (NWRI), to upgrade its hydrology center to a regional center of excellence that recognised by the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO).

The Director General of NiMet, Prof. Abubakar Mashi, said the WMO felt there was need to adopt a centre that would deal exclusively with training on operational hydrology, noting that WMO have asked that it comment and recommend a reputable water resources institute that can serve the aforementioned purpose. “We have therefore, submitted the name of the National Water Resources Institute as a prestigious option for WMO to adopt,� he said.

Mashi made this pledge when the Executive Secretary of NWRI, Professor Emmanuel Adanu, led a delegation from the Institute

to NiMet to solicit the agency’s cooperation in the quest to actualise the Institute’s mandate in general and setting up of the regional center in particular.

The NiMet DG, in a statement in Abuja, by the General Manager, Public Relations, NiMet, Muntari Yusuf, advised the Institute to deploy the use of technology to deliver training in order to make their request more compelling and appealing to the WMO. This, he revealed would enable the institute to place itself in good stead ahead of other competing African countries.

According to him, “this show of confidence in the country’s capability to host an operational hydrology centre is premised on the track record demonstrated by NiMet at the global stage. “WMO felt there is a need to also adopt a centre that will deal exclusively with training on operational hydrology and have asked us to comment and recommend a reputable Water Resources Institute that can serve the aforementioned purpose.

“We have therefore, submitted the name of the National Water Resources Institute as a prestigious option for WMO to adopt,� Prof Mashi declared.

Mashi, who doubles as the representative of WMO in Nigeria, welcomed the idea presented by the Executive Director of NWRI and gave assurance of NiMet’s support. “The meeting marks the beginning of a fruitful relationship which will eventually culminate into the signing of a formal Memorandum of Understanding between the two parties.�

He, however, pointed out that despite NWRI’s long standing history in water resources management, the Institute still needs some guidance on how to navigate their relationship with the WMO, adding that the NWRI can leverage on NiMet’s experience with the world body garnered since 1954 when the Nigerian WMO Regional Training centre was established in Lagos.

Speaking earlier, Adanu who highlighted the mandate of the

institute as being that of research and analyses of water distribution, the behavior of as well as how to modify the systems for the benefit of Nigerians, also appealed to NiMet to assist the institute in the areas of capacity building, skill and man power interchange between the two federal government organisations.

He noted that in view of this and other vistas of opportunities inherent in having a relationship with the agency, “we saw the need for the institute to visit NIMet in order to solicit for support, get necessary information, exchange views and learn more about each other�.

Adanu stated that NWRI was concerned with water which is an element that affects all lives.

He added: “Even without the WMO factor, we are together by virtue of our interactions with the water component. We are happy that the WMO is giving Nigeria another opportunity to demonstrate its capacity and capability towards managing the affairs in the regional level.�

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FG Calls for Synergy among Three Tiers of Govt to Enhance Mining Revenue Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi The Minister of State, Mines and Steel Development, Dr. Uchechukwu Ogah has stressed the need for collaboration between the three tiers of government as well as community leaders towards the smooth mining operations for the overall socio - economic development of the country.

The minister who was speaking recently when he paid a courtesy visit to Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, during his tour

of mining sites to interact with miners and communities in the state.

Ogar said to this end, the federal government had approved a 13 per cent to all the states of the federation for revenue generation through mining to encourage collection of mining tax in the states.

According to him, “Almost all the minerals are in Bauchi state, and Bauchi is one of the key states that we are proud of in terms of deposit of mineral resources but our concern is that the resources are yet to be

harnessed by the state government due to some challenges.�

The minister who said the ministry was already promoting the mineral potentials of Bauchi state to serious mining investors who are willing to invest in the state, pointed out that, “We have visited the areas where the mining ore is being processed and that is why we are preaching that no mineral should be taken out of Nigeria in raw form but have to be processed so that we get all the components to add value to what we are exporting.�

While responding, Mohammed urged the federal government to establish a robust funding mechanism to enable genuine miners access financial interventions, adding that giving financial assistance to genuine miners would go a long way towards reducing, tackling and discouraging illegal mining operations in the country. “We have recognised your passion, energy, drive and determination to make sure you leave the mining sector better than you have found it.

“We have abundant natural resources in Bauchi that, if well harnessed and supported by the federal government, can sustain Nigeria as a whole.�

He said the state government was working to create some value chains around many mining opportunities of the state to increase its revenue generation, adding that despite the abundant natural resources in Bauchi, both the state and the federal government were not benefiting from them because of the activities of illegal miners and advocated for community

engagement to overcome the situation.

He noted that his administration would continue to work with the ministry to provide level playing ground for genuine investors to come and invest in the state for the benefit of both the state and the federal government.

The Governor said Bauchi being blessed with abundant natural resources, his administration with the support of the federal government, would harness them for economic development.

Study Reveals Role of Gender Parity in GDP Growth Ebere Nwoji Experts have said Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) will witness additional 1.25 per cent growth if the country embraces gender parity.

The experts, mainly founders of African family firms and organisers of, ‘Dive In Festival 2020’, said presently, Nigeria ranks low amongst countries that support gender equality and inclusion of women in the workplace.

They said this has created a need for actions that can impact the country’s potential positively in the future.

As a result of this need, ‘The Dive In, a global movement in the insurance sector to support the development of inclusive workplace cultures has staged its 2020 festival with the target to address issues around diversity and inclusion in the workplace in the Nigerian Insurance sector.

The ‘Dive In Festival 2020, inspires change as it releases survey outcomes on young professionals in insurance.

The survey charts the course on diversity and inclusion in the insurance industry.

Organisers of the festival, African Family, said in a bid to take a deep dive into the underlying issues that make Nigeria rank low on gender diversity in the workplace in insurance, it launched a survey amongst young female professionals in the insurance sector in Nigeria.

The survey, according to the Mentor and Co-Founder,

African Family Firms, Nike Anani, seeks to understand the challenges women face (if any) while working in the sector and to learn how they are navigating these challenges.

She said generally, while it was interesting to note that over 90 per cent of the respondents described the insurance sector as an attractive sector to work in, a larger proportion of them still identified some challenges or limitations to women within the sector.

According to the survey, 26 per cent of respondents cited inadequate opportunities as the most problematic factor women face, starting their career in the insurance industry, 22 per cent cited gender bias as a limitation; 21 per cent of the respondents noted lack of career guidance and the last 14 per cent cited inadequate career guidance as challenges posing as stumbling blocks in the early phase of their career.

Also, about 59 per cent of the respondents expect their workplace leadership to facilitate opportunities for career development.

Overall, the survey showed that topmost on the challenges being faced by women in insurance include unequal pay, cultural and religious bias.

Anani, said these insights set the basis for this year’s Dive in Festival discussion which is “creating a road map for gender diversity and inclusion in the insurance workplace and an equal opportunity for both genders.

PROMOTINGINNOVATION

L-R:Head,InnovationHubCommunity,thehatch, ChineloMadueke;MD/CEO,AfricaOperations,Inlaks, FemiAdeoti;BestGraduatingStudent,thehatch Code Academy, Subair Rasheed, and Executive Director, Inlaks, Olufemi Muraino, during thehatch Code Academy Graduation organised by Inlaks in Lagos...recently

JTI Targets 35% Reduction in Greenhouse Gas Emission by 2030 Ugo Aliogo The Senior Vice President, Corporate Affair and Communication, Japan Tobacco International (JTI), Suzanne Weiss, has revealed plan by the company to reduce greenhouse gas emission by 35 per cent between 2015 and 2030.

She also stated that the company has commitment to reach net zero emission from its operations, and the key message is that it is time to build for the future and invest in long

term environmental projects.

Weiss, who disclosed this recently during a webinar with the theme: ‘Building a More Sustainable Future: The Pandemic as a Catalyst for Progress,’ said like all companies, JTI aims to improve its impacts on the environment, and consider a long list of investment projects.

She noted that the company would examine its return on investments, and determine which project to be funded and not to be.

“I think it is time to look at projects that has long term sustainability for the company and environment, this initiative is really informed by our consumers and employees who are driven by the sustainability agenda. “I think companies even in crisis involve those long term trends and demands from consumers and employees at their absolute peril,� she said.

Weiss hinted that despite the global crisis, the company has stayed through to its principles

and continues to strive, noting that from industry perspective, there are real conflict between economic recovery and sustainable goals.

In his remarks, Team Leader for Green Finance and Investment in the Environment Directorate, OECD, Robert Youngman, said as part of the company’s work on green finance and investment, Finance ministers have been the key target, because they are essential economic decision makers for future planning.

NCC Insists on Fair Usage Policy for Data Rollover Emma Okonji The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has insisted that it will continue with the implementation of its ‘Fair Usage Policy’ on consumers’ data rollover.

At its recent virtual bi-annual meeting, both the management of NCC and the senior executives of telecommunication companies, decided that they would hold follow-up discussions on “Fair Usage Policy� on unlimited data bundles/data rollover, in order to provide clearer explanation

and better understanding of the processes and procedures of the policy for the benefit of the consumers.

The commission therefore restated that its directive on June 2018, for service providers to commence implementation of data rollover remains in force.

In other words, a subscriber’s unused data must be rolled over to his/her subsequent data subscription.

Therefore, the commission urged service providers to continue to inform and educate subscribers on the procedures

and processes for data rollover.

At the meeting, which focused on consumer relations and complaint management processes, the NCC and the telecom service providers, also agreed that the compensation policy should be revisited and complied with at all times.

This, they said, would ensure full compliance with the new Complaint Categories and Service Level Agreement (CC/ SLA) consented to by the NCC and the service providers in the telecommunication ecosystem Service providers also agreed

to ensure that senior level customer relations officers support their respective complaints management teams, to resolve complaints that were not resolved to the satisfaction of the consumers when such complaints were first reported.

The service providers also promised to ensure that complaints are resolved in both the letter and spirit of the recently-reviewed Service Level Agreement (SLA).

With respect to services subscribed to through third parties, such as banks, which

are not rendered, the meeting resolved that telecom service providers should explore initiating service level agreement with banks to ensure uniformity and speed in the resolution of complaints relating to billing.

All parties to the meeting equally agreed that telecom service providers would carry out pervasive consumer education and enlightenment campaigns about their products and services to ensure their subscribers have information they require to make informed decisions and get value for

money spent.

The Director, Public Affairs at NCC, Dr. Ikechukwu Adinde, explained that NCC was very pleased with the impressive attendance, participation and the quality of decisions taken at the bi-annual meeting. “The NCC is therefore determined to continue to work closely with the service providers and other stakeholders in the Nigerian telecom sector in order to improve on the quality of service, and by implication, the quality of consumer experience,�

Adinde said.

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Photo Editor ĂŒĂ“Ă™ĂŽĂ&#x;Ă˜ ÔËÖË Email Ă‹ĂŒĂ“Ă™ĂŽĂ&#x;Ă˜Ë›Ă‹Ă”Ă‹Ă–Ă‹ĚśĂžĂ’Ă“Ă?ĂŽĂ‹ĂŁĂ–Ă“Ă Ă?Ë›Ă?Ù×

L-R: All Progressives Congress (APC) South West Women Leader, Chief (Mrs) Kemi Nelson; Commissioner for Commerce Industry and Cooperatives, Dr. Lola Akande; Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Lagos APC Chairman, Alhaji Tunde Balogun, during the commissioning of the Eko MSME Fashion Hub 1in Lagos..recently

Sorting out of ballots for Edo 2020 Governorship Election at Arinze Primary School, Ikpokpan Unit 12 and 13, on Saturday

L-R: Chairperson, Welfare Committee,Yoruba Tennis Club, Mrs Ademiluyi Folake; Chief Medical Director, Lagos State University Teaching Hospital(LASUTH),Prof. Adetokunbo O. Fabamwo; Chairperson of the Yoruba Tennis Club, Ladies Wing, Mrs Titilola Agbaje; and General Secretary, YorubaTennis Club,Mrs Adepoju Adedoyin,during the donation of the palliative items by the Ladies Wing of Yoruba Tennis Club to LASUTH in Lagos... recently PHOTO: ETOP UKUTT

L-R: Head, Innovation Hub Community, thehatch, Chinelo Madueke; MD/CEO, Africa Operations, Inlaks, Femi Adeoti; Best Graduating Student, thehatch Code Academy, Subair Rasheed; and Executive Director, Inlaks, Olufemi Muraino, during graduation ceremony of thehatch Code Academy organised by Inlaks in Lagos... recently

L-R: Divisional COO, ipNX Infrastructure, Bimbo Akinbaloye, Group Executive Director, Commercials ipNX, Bimpe Olaleye, Divisional CEO, Infrastructure, Uche Nnakenyi and Head, Infrastructure Planning and Quality, Victor Uzoechi at the signing of the partnership agreement between ipNX and the U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) at a virtual event held in Lagos...recently

L-R: Pastor Mrs Mobolaji Adeyewa; her husband, Zonal Superintendent, Foursquare Gospel Church in Nigeria, Ishaga Missionary Zone, Rev Biodun Adeyewa; Outgoing Zonal Superintendent, Rev Julius Oluwaleye; and his wife, Rev Mrs. Oluwakemi Oluwaleye during the installation of Rev Biodun as Superintendent of Ishaga Missionary Zone, Mushin, Lagos...recently PHOTO: AKINYELE ABAYOMI

L-R; Minister of State for Mines and Steel and Development, Dr Uchechukwu Ogah; Executive Secretary, Solid Mineral Development Fund (SMDF) Hajiya Fatima Umaru-ShinkaďŹ and the Minister of Mines and Steel and Development, Mr Olamilekan Adegbite during the visit of the Ministers to SMDF oďŹƒce in Abuja...recently

Patients queuing to get medicine during a Two-Day free medical outreach by Defence Headquarters in conjunction with Operation Safe Haven in Kamuru village, Zango Kataf LGA in Kaduna State...recently

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L-R: Traditional ruler of Igbe Community, High Chief Ajelu Akinselure Ajibuwa; wife of Ondo State Governor, Arabinrin Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu; and Olori Ajibuwa, during Mrs Akeredolu’s homage to the traditional ruler’s palace in Owo local government area of Ondo State...recently

INEC’s National Commissioner and Supervising Commissioner of Edo, Mrs May Agbamuche-Mbu (middle) discusses with Some Foreign Election Observers during the Edo 2020 Governorship Election in Egor Local Government Area of Edo...recently

APC gubernatorial candidate, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu addressing the newsmen, after casting his vote, during the 2020 Edo Gubernatorial elections at, Iguadodo Community in Orhionmwon L.G.A of Edo State...recently

Governorship candidate of the PDP, Governor Godwin Obaseki (middle); and his wife, Betsy waiting to cast their votes, during the edo governorship election at the Emokpe Model Primary School, Oredo Ward 4, Polling Unit 19 on the outskirt of Benin City in Edo State‌recently

Collapsed Excel College building in Ejigbo Lagos...recently

The Olugbo of Ugbo Kingdom, Oba Fredrick Akinruntan (M), presents Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa (L) as true son Ilaje and a capable running mate to Gov. Oluwarotimi Akeredolu (R), during their campaign visit to Olugbo Leghe Oghonne of Ugbo Kingdom, Ilaje-Ugbo, Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State...recently

The World Health Organisation’s Representative in Nigeria, Dr Kazadi Mulombo (right),and Shehu of Borno, Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai El-Kanemi during his courtesy visit to the, royal father for his support of Polio eradication in Nigeria and Africa, in Maiduguri...recently

R-L: Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat; the State Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Kazeem Alogba; Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Attorney General/Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Moyosore Onigbanjo (SAN) during an inspection tour of the Ikeja High Court, GRA, Lagos...recently

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T H I S D AY Ëž Í°ÍŻËœ Í°ÍŽÍ°ÍŽ

CITYSTRINGS

Group Features Editor: Chiemelie Ezeobi Ă—Ă‹Ă“Ă– Ă?Ă’Ă“Ă?Ă—Ă?Ă–Ă“Ă?Ë›Ă?äĂ?Ă™ĂŒĂ“ĚśĂžĂ’Ă“Ă?ĂŽĂ‹ĂŁĂ–Ă“Ă Ă?Ë›Ă?Ă™Ă—Ëœ ͙͔͙͚͚͓͖͑͑͑͒

Respite Looms for Kaduna’s ‘Government Rejected Area’ John Shiklam writes that respite is in the offing for residents of Sabon Tasha Government Reserved Area, Kaduna, which is now derogatorily referred to as ‘Government Rejected Area’, due to lack of motorable access roads and other basic facilities befitting a GRA, since it was founded over three decades ago

Part of Senator Azeez Street, where the vehicle of late Governor Yakowa got stuck

Our Lady of Fatima Road

G

overnment Reserved Areas (GRAs) are very common in Nigerian cities.

They are often an exclusive residential areas for the rich and the powerful.

Unlike other residential places, the GRAs often enjoy better facilities like good access roads, drainages, water, electricity and security.

However, Tsabon Tasha GRA (also known as Tsaunin Kura), Kaduna, is more of a glorified village than a GRA. Founded in 1978, it is derogatorily referred to as “Government Rejected Area� by neighbouring communities in Sabon Tasha because of the lack of government presence in terms of motorable roads and basic infrastructure, deserving of a Government Reserved Areas.

Even the authorities of Chikun Local Government, where the GRA is located, has never constructed even a culvert in the community.

The road network within the GRA are worse than those of some remote villages.

Ironically, the area boasts of very influential and wealthy individuals, ranging from politicians, retired judges, former and serving lawmakers, former commissioners and other political office holders who served in various administrations both at the state and federal levels, retired and serving civil servants, retired and serving military and police officers, top legal practitioners, politicians, businessmen and women among others.

Nightmare of Bad Roads The raining season is always a nightmare to residents as the roads become unmotorable. Cars break down on the roads or get stuck whenever it rains. Many commercial motorcyclists and operators of tricycles have stopped plying the area as a result of the bad roads while those who dare it, charge very high fares, often falling down with their passengers.

For instance the few motorcyclists who operate around the Ostrich Bakery Junction who used to charge N50 to N100 to the GRA, now charge between N150 to N200 and above depending on the street and the condition of the road.

The bike operators at our Lady of Fatima Junction also charge high fares as a result of the bad roads.

The worst is when there is an emergency, before, you manoeuver your way out of the bad roads, to the hospital, the person would have given up the ghost.

Most importantly, the police and other security agencies find it difficult to respond to emergency security situations due to lack of motorable access roads in the GRA. The situation of some of the roads, especially, from the Ostrich Bakery Junction through to ECWA Blue Roof, down to Senator Azeez street and other adjourn areas is compounded by trucks carrying cements and sands to construction sites and block industries around the area. These trucks often get stuck on the road and by the time they are removed, no vehicle can pass on the road again.

Residents also said relations and friends no longer visit them because of the terrible roads.

There are also challenges of waste disposal as there are no provisions for waste disposal. Some

Governor Nasir El-Rufai

Abubakar Ladan Street, being rehabilitated by a Good Samaritan

residents pay between N1000 to N1,500 monthly for refuge collectors while others dump their refuge in uncompleted buildings, thereby exposing residents to health hazards.

Furthermore, some of the residents are to blame for not constructing drainages at their premises.

THISDAY findings revealed that some people spent millions of naira to build their houses but could not construct drainages which could help in preserving some of the road which have become deep ponds.

Some of the residents who spoke in an interview lamented the situation, saying that it is frustrating going through such difficulties everyday.

One of the residents, James Swam said in an interview that the area is unfortunate having been neglected since it was established over three decades ago. “This is one of the seven GRAs in Kaduna. Sadly while other GRAs have some basic amenities, especially good road networks, ours has not been lucky. Everything here, from electricity to roads were provided through communal efforts.

Everybody also has his borehole because there is no provision of water. “But the greatest challenge we face is that we have no single tarred good road in the GRA. We visit mechanic workshops on a daily basis because of the bad road. When people see you in town, they think you are just coming from one remote villages because of the mud on your car.

We also suffer during the dry season because of the terrible dust� Swam said.

Another resident of the area, a civil servant who preferred to be anonymous, said his car once got stuck on the road and people helped him to remove it. He said the car was badly damaged as one of the shock absorbers was broken, adding that since then he stopped driving out with his car, especially when it rains.

Also narrating her experience, Mrs Roseline Joseph, said she and her two children fell down on the mud when the bike they were riding on, from Ostrich Bakery Junction slipped off. “We fell into the mud with my two kids when the bike carrying us slipped off. Luckily,

nobody was injured, but right from that day, I stopped riding on a bike when it rains. Instead of taking a bike, I remove my shoes and trek. “Even the trekking is dangerous, you have to be very careful, otherwise you slip off and fall down. So it has been a very terrible experience for those of living in the GRA,� she said.

Respite President of the GRA Community, Dr. Silas Adamu, while lamenting the plight of the residents, however, said this would soon be over as Governor Nasir El-Rufai has promised to intervene.

According to him, the community had written to the governor and he acted very promptly. He added that the El-Rufai administration will make history as the only administration that brought development to the GRA since it was founded over three decades ago.

It was learnt that the late Governor Patrick Yakowa had promised to intervene when his car got stuck in one of the streets were he went to pay condolence visit. After the embarrassing incident, Yakowa ordered for the grading of the road and promised to construct access roads in the GRA. Unfortunately he died in a helicopter crash in Bayelsa state in December 2012 and couldn’t fulfil his promised. “We wrote a letter to Governor Nasir El-Rufai and he treated our letter with dispatch. He minuted it to commissioner for works and the commissioner minuted it to the Kaduna State Road Agency (KADRA),� Adamu told THISDAY in a telephone interview.

According to him, KADRA came to the GRA weeks ago and went round to surveyed and evaluated the roads in the GRA. “We are very hopeful the El-Rufai will wipe out tears. He is a man of action so we hope and pray that very soon they condition of roads in the GRA would be a thing of the past,� Adamu said.

He stated further that the community also wrote a letter to the state government to help secure porous areas within the GRA, “and in less than a week we got a response. We were

contacted by the military commander who told us that they had instructions to cover the GRA in their security watch�.

Self-help Adamu said residents had been very relentless in addressing the problems through communal efforts, adding that some individuals single handedly sponsored a number of projects in the GRA, adding that the road project is an expensive venture and the community alone cannot do it all alone.

Narrating some of the efforts made by the residents, Adamu said “We made efforts to constantly work on drainages which was single handedly funded by some individuals. We have also been collaborating as a community to errect fences in some strategic places to ensure security.

We are installing solar street light in some streets. “Our focus is to do what we can do on our own as a community even as we are appealing to government to come and help us. We should be able to showcase what we have been able to do as a community.�

He disclosed that a resident of the GRA donated a transformer to address the problem of electricity, adding that about N1 million is required to buy the accessories for installing the transformer. He said already, residents had started contributing money towards that.

Kaduna’s Urban Renewal Project For now, the community is anxiously looking up to Governor El-Rufai for help. Luckily the governor has embarked on massive road construction under his Urban Renewal Project.

Many road projects are currently going on, some have been completed.

The Urban Renewal aimed at transforming Kaduna through boosting of infrastructure.

The project has 14 components which include road construction/ expansion, mass transit, housing, improved land use and street lights.

Others include parks and recreational centres, markets and neighborhood centres as well as waste management.

35

T H I S D AY Ëž SEPTEMBER 21, 2020

CRIME&SECURITY

Addressing Tales of Planned Invasion of Anambra Communities David-Chyddy Eleke writes that for the past two weeks, rumours of planned invasion of some Anambra communities by strange men, suspected to be bandits from the North, have been rife, thus inciting fear. While addressing the viral rumour, the zonal police and the state’s vigilante group called for caution given that investigation is ongoing

Zone 13 Public Relations OďŹƒcer (ZPRO), DSP Nkeiruka Nwode

Chairman of Anambra Vigilante Supervisory Committee, Mr Ikechukwu Aduba

T

He noted, however, that crime seem to experience upsurge during Ember period before the Yuletide and New Year celebrations, but that AVG over the years usually beef up security in their areas. Aduba said such measures were to ensure that Anambra remains one of the safest states in Nigeria and foreign/local investment friendly. He advised that the road traffic authorities namely Anambra State Traffic Agency (ASTA), the Federal Road Safety Corps, Nigeria Police and Ocha Brigade should curb the use motorbikes to flood strange elements into the state as the use of Okada in urban centres and carrying more than one person had been outlawed.

He also reminded that it is against the Land Use Act for any individual to sell land, especially to cattle rearers or strange elements without obtaining permission from the state government first and foremost. "This warning is being repeated to forestall nomadic migrant herders from settling in our forests which is equally under surveillance by A.V.G. Intelligence Unit�.

The warning of the AVG leadership, who is considered to be one who should know better, further sent Indigenes and residents alike into panic, causing them to demand investigation into the alleged influx of persons suspected to be bandits from a section of the country into the state.

wo weeks ago, there were rumours of the invasion of Anambra State by scores of young men, suspected to be bandits from Northern Nigeria, who were said to have been 'shipped' into the state for a mission yet to be ascertained. The men were said to have been camped in a Hausa Quarters along the Amawbia- Nise Agulu road, a little away from the official residence of the Anambra State governor, Chief Willie Obiano.

The area which has become known as a quarter for people from the North, was said to have been a temporary spot for the invading Northern youths, as their mission was more in the interior part of the state, where they were to carry out an unknown assignment.

Viral Allegations Shortly after the rumour went round the state, it was further backed by a video circulated by unknown persons, which showed a long convoy of motorcycles carrying two passengers each.

The video which immediately went viral saw a commentator speaking in Igbo, and alleging that the passengers were Fulani herdsmen who were previously camped in Hausa Quarters, now distributed to many villages of Anambra State, in readiness to carry out their assigned operation.

The maker of the video, driving behind the convoy of motorcycles while making the video, listed Amawbia, Agulu, Nise, Neni, Adazi and other communities in Anaocha Local Government Area, as places where the invading northern youths have been sent to.

This had sent fear down the spines of Indigenes of the state who feared that the invaders may sooner than later start causing havoc in the state.

There has however been varying accounts of the story of the influx of strange persons into the state. At the boundary area between Amawbia and Nise communities where there

is Hausa Quarters, a youth leader in Amawbia community, Ignatius Ngini, told THISDAY that he had observed, a number of times, suspicious camping of persons along the road at odd hours.

Ngini said that those he had seen settling along the Amawbia–Nise–Agulu Road at odd hours usually placed phones in their ears, suggesting that they were making calls.

An Indigene of the state, Mr Toochukwu Orji, who spoke to THISDAY said that, "at times like this, you cannot wish away any rumour. If you know what is happening in some parts of the North, you will pray that it never happens here. We can not rely on police and others to secure us, because they have failed most times, especially if the plan is one associated with top persons. What we can only do, is to look around for suspicious persons in our environment and report them to the community leaders.�

Anambra Vigilance Group Reacts In reaction to the video, the Anambra Vigilance Group (AVG) called on Anambra citizens to be at Red Alert.

The Chairman of Anambra Vigilante Supervisory Committee, Mr Ikechukwu Ayo Aduba while giving the warning said though the rumour has not been confirmed, he is calling on the public for "more vigilance, especially in this Ember Months".

"AVG wishes to inform the general public about the need for heightened vigilance in all parts of the state. A suspicious but unconfirmed mass movement of stranger elements purported to be Northerners was reported around Amawbia, Agulu, Nise, Neni and Adazi axis. AVG operatives in these areas are now on red alert to verify and confirm this report. AVG operatives in the 179 communities are hereby put on alert.

They are advised to collaborate with the Nigeria Police and sister security agencies to secure their areas from now till the end of the year."

The Hausa Community’s Peaceful Stance But a leader of the Hausa settlement who simply gave his name as Ibrahim said, "I can tell you we are not aware of it. Our people come here and settle, before they start something in the state, but to tell you that there is a definite plan to bring in bandits into the state and camp them here, I am not aware of it. We are peace loving people, and we thank Amawbia people because they have been accommodating us.

Some of us have our families here, and we will not accept any plan to do anything that will cause trouble," he said.

Police Directive The Nigeria Police Zone 13 in Ukpo, Anambra State, reacting through its Zonal Public Relations Officer (ZPRO), DSP Nkeiruka Nwode to THISDAY said, "We have come into knowledge of a viral video purporting an influx of elements whom according to the source purported to have been Fulani insurgent migrants into Agulu and Adazi areas of Anambra State by a barrage of motorcycles.

"The content of the video also stated that the migration was intended to wreak mayhem on some communities of the state and called on the people to be vigilant. The video went on to allege that there was an assemblage of these suspicious characters at the Hausa Quarters in Awka wherefrom their journey took off. Germane as it could seem to be, the Assistant Inspector General of Police; Danmallam Mohammed warns that while raising alarms on security, caution should be adopted so as not to incite the public against law and order and cause disaffection, tension and false security impression on the people and the land. “The AIG has directed the Anambra State Command Commissioner of Police; Abang John to tighten the security of Anambrarians and also to examine the contents shared and get back to the zone for clarification. We employ you to be calm and go about your legal duties without fear of harassment.�

A week after the directive was handed down, there has however not been any news of the outcome of police investigation of the video. Attempt to reach the Anambra State Police Command spokesperson, SP Haruna Mohammed as at the time of filing this report was unsuccessful as his phone line remained unreachable.

36

T H I S D AY Ëž Í°ÍŻË› 2020

BUSINESS/MONEYGUIDE

Innovations Will Continue to Define Future of Banking, Says Ecobank Boss Nume Ekeghe The Managing Director, Ecobank Nigeria, Mr. Patrick Akinwuntan has reiterated that the future of Nigerian banking will continue to be shaped by innovation and technology disruptions.

He stressed that only financial institutions that are amenable to such transformation would remain relevant in the sector.

According to Akinwuntan, there was no way banks would remain competitive and relevant without embarking on digital transformation.

He noted that banking has come to represent, ‘what you do,’ without necessarily referring to a particular location. “There is massive disruptions in the banking space and this is good of the sector. Take a second look at the evolution in the use of cards in ATM and PoS today and its interoperability, USSD, agency banking, blockchain,

crypto currency and others. “The sector is being democratised for full participation. What about the mobile phone which was essentially for receiving calls but today every Nigeria can make transaction on their phones using the mobile app, or the USSD string. The whole idea is bringing financial services to every household so that we can all participate effectively in the growth of the largest economy in Africa,� he added.

According to a statement, Akinwuntan who was speaking on, “Innovations and disruptions: How Fintechs,� are defining our future at the 13th annual banking and finance conference of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) held in Abuja recently, pointed out that fintechs are making impact in the financial services sector.

Also speaking, Executive Director, Information & Operations, Access Bank, Ade Bajomo,

said the emergence of fintechs was threatening to displace incumbents with innovative solutions, noting that digital transformation was no longer optional as companies can no longer stay relevant and compete with others than going through digital transformation process.

He observed that the journey from the industrial age into the information age, more specifically the birth of internet, has unlocked unprecedented disruption of business models.

Bajomo added: “Digital disruption will hit every industry; it is what you make of it that counts.

Fintechs are instrumental to closing the financial inclusion gap.

Regulation is key to building the desired fintech ecosystem. Cyber security will be one of the top risks facing financial institutions, up-skilling and reskilling is key.

Any bank that doesn’t have an online platform will struggle to survive the pandemic.�

MARKET INDICATORS

NIRC Seeks Improved Financial Reporting in Nigeria The Nigerian Integrated Reporting Committee (NIRC) has called for better company accounts for foreign and Nigerian investors.

The chairman of the committee, Innocent Okwuosa, made the call during the committee’s recent programme organised to respond to International Integrated Reporting Council (IIRC) and its framework’s consultation.

Okwuosa, stated that a better company accounts report does not only address financial performance but also addresses social and environmental performance which speaks directly to company’s sustainability and should be embraced by listed companies in Nigeria.

Okwuosa disclosed that integrated reporting has been made mandatory by the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE), adding that every company listed on the JSE was expected to produce an annual report in form of integrated report.

He said this singular action of the JSE has placed South Africa among countries with the best corporate annual reports.

He, therefore, called on the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the NSE to follow the footsteps of the JSE. According to him, it is generally agreed that investors invest in companies where their accounts are perceived more transparent since such transparency helps bridge information asymmetry in the capital market.

When questioned on the sufficiency of the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) adopted by Nigeria to attract foreign investors, Okwuosa noted that the adoption of IFRS was in the right direction, saying more needed to be done. He pointed out that South Africa even adopted IFRS before Nigeria but, in addition, progressed to integrated reporting.

The establishment of the

Nigerian Integrated Reporting Committee was carried out by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) in 2018. It was formed to advocate for the adoption of integrated reporting in Nigeria, aimed at attracting foreign direct investment and strengthening the capital market.

As a multi-stakeholder organisation, NIRC has a staunch membership base that includes: Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN); the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRCN); the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC); Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE); the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN); the Nigerian Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC); the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM); the Pension Commission (PenCom); the Ministry of Finance; the Auditor General Office; and the private sector advisory group on sustainable development goals, among others.

Polaris Bank Appoints Opeke Executive Director Polaris Bank Limited has announced the appointment of Mr. Segun Opeke as an Executive Director of the bank.

The appointment was made by the bank’s Board of Directors and the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON). The development comes on the heels of the recent appointment of Mr. Innocent C. Ike as the Acting Managing Director of the bank.

According to a statement, Opeke has over 26 years of hands-on work experience

acquired from leading Nigerian commercial banks with over fifteen of these years in senior and executive management roles.

Until his appointment, Opeke was the Directorate Head, Lagos Business. “The Lagos Directorate under, his leadership, recorded outstanding growth and contributed significantly to the turnaround of the bank, evidenced by its impressive financial performance recorded in the 2019 financial year. “Since the CBN intervention

in the erstwhile Skye Bank Plc in July 2016, Segun has played a prominent role in the Bank’s transformation initiatives and very instrumental to the several milestone achievements of the Bank. “By this appointment, he is expected to strengthen the bank’s leadership aspirations in the industry leveraging his wealth of experience and contributing greatly to its ongoing corporate transformation programme,� it stated.

FirstBank Supports Author on New TV Series First Bank of Nigeria Limited has announced its partnership with Arese Ugwu for the television adaptation of her best seller, Smart Money Woman. The weekly show - in its first season - is billed to premiere on Africa Magic Showcase this Wednesday.

The Smart Money Woman is a programme that shows the experiences, sacrifices, struggles and vigour of women in society as they carry out their day to day activities in spite of the gender imbalance in the society, especially in Africa.

The series is an adaptation of Smart Money Woman written to tackle

debt, providing tips on inculcating the right savings culture of the African middle class (why don’t we say – every individual – as against limiting to African middle class), the fear and misconceptions surrounding money and the lack of it, love, friendships, cultural and societal pressures and the roles they play in success.

The half hour 13-episode series which is directed by Bunmi Ajakaiye and Co-, produced

by Kemi Lala Akindoju, Akin Marinho and Arcadia Tv Africa would have viewers exposed to financial literacy nuggets. Its

cast include; Osas Ighodaro, Toni Tones, Ini Dima-Okojie, Eby Eno, Eso Okolocha, Timini Egbuson, Karibi Fubara, Tope Tedela, Seun Ajayi and Temisan Emmanuel. According to Author and Executive Producer, Smart Tribe Media, Arese Ugwu; “The Smart Money Woman is a love letter to every modern and upwardly mobile African women who are exploring life opportunities and experiences to find that right balance in their day to day activities especially in their career, friendship, relationship and of course, family.�

MONEY AND CREDIT STATISTICS

(MILLION NAIRA)

JULY 2020 Money Supply (M3)

36,822,751.47

-- CBN Bills Held by Money Holding Sectors

3,476,121.25

Money Supply (M2)

33,346,630.22

-- Quasi Money

120,764,479.02

-- Narrow Money (M1)

12,582,151.19

---- Currency Outside Banks

2,002,026.89

---- Demand Deposits

10,580,124.31

Net Foreign Assets (NFA)

7,637,137.23

Net Domestic Assets(NDA)

29,185,614.24

-- Net Domestic Credit (NDC)

39,711,115.95

---- Credit to Government (Net)

19,521,851.08

---- Memo: Credit to Govt. (Net) less FMA

0.00

---- Memo: Fed. and Mirror Accounts (FMA)

0.00

---- Credit to Private Sector (CPS)

-130,189,264.87

--Other Assets Net

3,472,017.70

Reserve Money (Base Money

13,421,827.07

--Currency in Circulation

2,395,917.03

--Banks Reserves --Special Intervention Reserves

11,025,910.04 317,234.17

Ëž Ă™Ă&#x;ĂœĂ?Ă? Ě‹

Money Market Indicators (in Percentage) Month Inter-Bank Call Rate

March 2018 15.16

Minimum Rediscount Rate (MRR) Monetary Policy Rate (MPR)

14.00

Treasury Bill Rate

11.84

Savings Deposit Rate

4.07

1 Month Deposit Rate

8.82

3 Months Deposit Rate

9.72

6 Months Deposit Rate

10.93

12 Months Deposit Rate

10.21

Prime Lending rate

17.35

Maximum Lending Rate

31.55

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OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE Ëœ ÍŻÍľ Í°ÍŽÍ°ÍŽ

The price of OPEC basket of thirteen crudes stood at $42.07 a barrel on Thursday, compared with $41.29 the previous day, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations.

The OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the following: Saharan Blend (Algeria), Girassol (Angola), Djeno (Congo), ZaďŹ ro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basra Light (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).

SOURCE: OPEC headquarters, Vienna

37

T H I S D AY Ëž Í°ÍŻË› Í°ÍŽÍ°ÍŽ

Tripple Gee Intensifies Expansion Plans for Improved Performance Goddy Egene Tripple Gee & Company Plc, a manufacturer of financial instruments, secure and commercial documents, labels and flexible packaging materials, has assured shareholders that it will continue to pursue the diversification and expansion of its business for improved performance and return on investment.

The Chairman of the company, Mr. Sam Ayininuola, stated this

while speaking at the 30th annual general meeting (AGM) held in Lagos.

According to him, Tripple Gee has put in place measures to ensure the continuity of its business operations without compromising the safety of the work force and clients, disclosing that The Directors and management staff of the company have continued to conduct their business virtually under the difficult economic

P R I C E S MAIN BOARD

F O R DEALS

terrain the company swam successfully. “The company recorded a turnover of N1.321 billion for the year ended 31st March, 2020 compared to N784.795 recorded for the corresponding period of 2019, thus showing a 68 per cent increase. Profit before tax was N55.198 million as against N35.293 million thus reflecting a 56 per cent increase. Tripple Gee’s resolve for the years ahead is to remain

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steadfast and undaunted. The company will continue to pursue its diversification and expansion of business plans even as we keep a close watch on the industry both locally and globally,� he said.

He added that with the advent of the COVID -19 Pandemic a new normal has been created in business environment and this has necessitated a re-think of processes by industry players that will

T R A D E D MAIN BOARD

A S

not only survive but emerge stronger thereafter.

Ayininuola said during the financial year ended 31st March, 2020, Chief (Mrs) Adebimpe Giwa was appointed the managing director (MD) of the company. “Since the mantle of leadership fell on her, she has taken several giant steps which have impacted positively on the business of the company.

Her tenacity and doggedness

O F

in marketing and management are highly commendable,� he said.

Speaking, the MD said the despite the present challenging operating environment, the company has a very bright prospects given the expansion plans being embarked upon.

According to her, the company will introduce 3D printing with the objective of revolutionising the packaging business for the manufacturing world.

1 7 / 0 9 / 2 0 2 0 DEALS

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˾ MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 2020

38

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THISDAY AFRINVEST 40 INDEX

WĞƌĨŽƌŵĂŶĐĞ͙ ^/ ĚŽǁŶ Ϭ͘ϭй ǁͬǁ

ƚ ƚŚĞ ĐůŽƐĞ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ǁĞĞŬ͕ ƚŚĞƌĞ ǁĂƐ Ă ŶĞŐĂƟǀĞ ƉĞƌĨŽƌŵĂŶĐĞ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ĚŽŵĞƐƟĐ ĞƋƵŝƟĞƐ ŵĂƌŬĞƚ as ŝŶǀĞƐƚŽƌƐ ƚŽŽŬ ƉƌŽĮƚƐ ŝŶ E/d, (-2.9%), ^^ (4.4%) and ^d E / (-Ϯ͘ϯйͿ͘ ŽŶƐĞƋƵĞŶƚůLJ͕ ƚŚĞ E^ All-^ŚĂƌĞ /ŶĚĞdž ĨĞůů 8bps w/w to 25,572.57 points. ^ŝŵŝůĂƌůLJ͕ ƚŚĞ zd ůŽƐƐ ǁŽƌƐĞŶĞĚ to -4.7% while ŵĂƌŬĞƚ ĐĂƉŝƚĂůŝƐĂƟŽŶ ƌŽƐĞ േ13.6bn w/w to േ13.4tn. ĐƟǀŝƚLJ ůĞǀĞů ǁĂƐ ŵŝdžĞĚ ĂƐ ĂǀĞƌĂŐĞ ǀŽůƵŵĞ ĚĞĐůŝŶĞĚ ϲ͘ϵй ƚŽ ϮϮϳ͘ϳŵ ƵŶŝƚƐ ǁŚŝůĞ ĂǀĞƌĂŐĞ ǀĂůƵĞ ƌŽƐĞ ϭϳ͘ϭй to േϮ͘ϱďŶ͘ dŚĞ ƚŽƉ ƚƌĂĚĞĚ ƐƚŽĐŬƐ ďLJ ǀŽůƵŵĞ ǁĞƌĞ & E, ;ϭϭϴ͘ϭŵ ƵŶŝƚƐͿ͕ 'h Z Edz ;ϭϬϮ͘ϴŵ ƵŶŝƚƐͿ and ^^ ;ϴϮ͘Ϭŵ ƵŶŝƚƐͿ ǁŚŝůĞ 'h Z Edz (േ2.3bn), DdEE (േ1.9bn) and E/d, (േϭ͘ϯďŶͿ ůĞĚ ďLJ ǀĂůƵĞ͘

Fundamental Performance Metrics for THISDAY AFRINVEST 40 Index

Ticker

Current Price

THISDAY AFRINVEST 40

Price Previous Current Change Price Weightin YTD Change g

Price Change Index to Date

ROE

ROA

P/E

P/BV

Divindend Earnings Yield Yield

1,129.98

0.15%

-23.0%

13.0%

16.9%

3.7%

3.9x

0.5x

7.1%

17.3%

1 MTN Nigeria Communications PLC

120.00

0.0%

32.3%

14.3%

10.1%

163.8%

12.2%

12.4x

17.5x

5.8%

8.1%

2 Airtel Africa PLC

380.00

0.0%

18.9%

27.1%

27.1%

9.4%

3.1%

3.1%

3 Guaranty Trust Bank PLC

25.35

1.4%

9.8%

-14.6%

-13.2%

29.4%

4.7%

3.7x

1.1x

11.0%

26.8%

4 Zenith Bank PLC

16.70

0.0%

6.1%

-10.2%

-10.7%

24.8%

3.3%

2.3x

0.5x

16.8%

42.6% 4.4%

5 Nestle Nigeria PLC

1,175.00

0.0%

4.2%

-20.1%

-20.1%

106.4%

23.1%

22.6x

29.4x

5.8%

135.00

0.0%

4.5%

-4.9%

-4.9%

26.9%

12.0%

11.0x

3.2x

11.9%

9.1%

6.45

1.6%

2.9%

-35.5%

-36.1%

15.3%

1.3%

2.3x

0.3x

10.1%

43.3%

6 Dangote Cement PLC 7 Access Bank PLC 8 United Bank for Africa PLC

6.00

0.0%

2.5%

-16.1%

-16.7%

13.0%

1.2%

2.8x

0.3x

16.2%

35.8%

9 FBN Holdings Plc

4.95

1.0%

2.3%

-19.5%

-23.8%

14.2%

1.4%

2.4x

0.3x

7.7%

41.9%

10 Nigerian Brew eries PLC

42.00

0.0%

2.1%

-28.8%

-28.8%

7.8%

3.3%

40.0x

1.9x

4.8%

2.5%

11 Lafarge Africa PLC

13.00

0.0%

2.5%

-15.0%

-5.8%

44.7%

24.1%

9.1x

0.6x

7.7%

11.0%

385.00

0.0%

1.5%

-41.5%

-35.0%

2.5%

1.5%

18.3x

0.3x

9.7%

5.5%

13 Stanbic IBTC Holdings PLC

12 SEPLAT Petroleum Development C

39.10

0.0%

2.1%

-4.6%

-2.3%

27.7%

3.5%

5.0x

1.2x

6.1%

19.9%

14 Flour Mills of Nigeria PLC

0.5x

7.1%

19.80

0.0%

1.1%

0.5%

0.5%

15 International Brew eries PLC

3.30

0.0%

0.4%

-65.3%

-65.3%

-30.1%

-8.6%

16 Ecobank Transnational Inc

4.00

1.3%

0.6%

-38.5%

-38.9%

11.0%

0.7%

1.6x

0.2x

17 Fidelity Bank PLC

1.78

0.6%

0.7%

-13.2%

-11.9%

10.9%

1.2%

2.0x

0.2x

11.2%

48.8% 10.4%

18 11 PLC

0.5x

-81.9% 63.4%

192.50

0.0%

0.9%

30.2%

30.2%

18.7%

8.5%

9.6x

1.6x

4.3%

WĞƌĨŽƌŵĂŶĐĞ ĂĐƌŽƐƐ ƐĞĐƚŽƌƐ ǁĂƐ ŵŝdžĞĚ ĂůƚŚŽƵŐŚ

19 Okomu Oil Palm PLC

78.00

0.0%

0.9%

40.3%

40.3%

23.5%

15.8%

10.6x

2.4x

2.6%

9.4%

20 Dangote Sugar Refinery PLC

12.00

7.1%

0.5%

-11.8%

-14.3%

21.2%

11.5%

6.3x

1.2x

9.2%

15.9%

ƉŽƐŝƟǀĞůLJ ƐŬĞǁĞĚ ĂƐ ϯ ŽĨ ϲ ŝŶĚŝĐĞƐ ƵŶĚĞƌ ŽƵƌ

21 Transnational Corp of Nigeria

0.4x

1.7%

0.60

-1.6%

0.3%

-39.4%

-43.9%

22 Unilever Nigeria PLC

14.40

0.0%

0.4%

-34.5%

-30.4%

-11.5%

-7.2%

1.3x

ĐŽǀĞƌĂŐĞ ƚƌĞŶĚĞĚ ŶŽƌƚŚǁĂƌĚ ǁͬǁ͘ dŚĞ /ŶĚƵƐƚƌŝĂů

23 Guinness Nigeria PLC

13.55

0.0%

0.2%

-54.9%

-54.9%

-15.5%

-8.3%

0.4x

24 FCMB Group Plc

2.06

1.0%

'ŽŽĚƐ ŝŶĚĞdž ůĞĚ ŐĂŝŶĞƌƐ͕ ƵƉ Ϭ͘ϱй ǁͬǁ ŽŶ ƚŚĞ ďĂĐŬ ŽĨ

0.5%

11.4%

13.2%

9.8%

1.1%

2.1x

0.2x

6.8%

48.6%

25 Sterling Bank PLC

1.19

0.8%

0.2%

-40.2%

-37.4%

8.7%

0.8%

3.3x

0.3x

2.5%

30.1%

ďĂƌŐĂŝŶ ŚƵŶƟŶŐ ŝŶ W (+8.6%) and Z' Z (+7.4%).

26 UAC of Nigeria PLC

6.05

0.0%

0.2%

-29.7%

-32.0%

-11.2%

-5.5%

2.4x

0.3x

1.7%

40.9%

27 Custodian and Allied Insurance

4.85

6.6%

0.2%

-19.2%

-19.2%

13.9%

4.9%

4.6x

0.6x

9.3%

21.7%

49.00

0.0%

0.3%

3.2%

3.2%

17.6%

7.6%

9.4x

1.5x

4.1%

10.7%

5.35

0.0%

0.2%

-10.8%

-11.6%

7.7%

1.0%

6.7x

0.6x

4.9%

15.0%

80.00

0.0%

0.1%

-27.9%

-27.9%

5.7%

1.1%

18.3x

1.1x

8.4%

2.30

0.0%

0.1%

-42.4%

-42.4%

14.5%

2.6%

1.0x

0.1x

dƌĂŝůŝŶŐ͕ ƚŚĞ ŽŶƐƵŵĞƌ 'ŽŽĚƐ ĂŶĚ /ŶƐƵƌĂŶĐĞ ŝŶĚŝĐĞƐ ƌŽƐĞ Ϭ͘ϭй ĂŶĚ ϭďƉ ǁͬǁ ƌĞƐƉĞĐƟǀĞůLJ ĚƵĞ ƚŽ ƉƌŝĐĞ ĂƉƉƌĞĐŝĂƟŽŶ ŝŶ E/' Z/ E Z t Z/ ^ (+2.3%), s/d &K D (+1.9%), t W/ (+12.1%) and WZ ^d/'

28 Presco PLC 29 Union Bank of Nigeria PLC 30 Total Nigeria PLC 31 Oando PLC

down 1.0% w/w following sell-ŽīƐ ŝŶ K E K (-4.2%) and ^ W> d (-ϭ͘ϯйͿ ǁŚŝůĞ ƉƌŝĐĞ ĚĞƉƌĞĐŝĂƟŽŶ ŝŶ & D

&ŝŶĂůůLJ͕

ƚŚĞ

&Z-/ d

ŝŶĚĞdž

ĐůŽƐĞĚ

ŇĂƚ͘

/ŶǀĞƐƚŽƌ ƐĞŶƟŵĞŶƚ ĂƐ ŵĞĂƐƵƌĞĚ ďLJ ŵĂƌŬĞƚ ďƌĞĂĚƚŚ ;ĂĚǀĂŶĐĞͬĚĞĐůŝŶĞ ƌĂƟŽͿ ƐƚƌĞŶŐƚŚĞŶĞĚ ƚŽ Ϭ͘ϵdž ĨƌŽŵ Ϭ͘ϳdž ĂƐ Ϯϵ ƐƚŽĐŬƐ ĂĚǀĂŶĐĞĚ ĂŐĂŝŶƐƚ ϯϭ ƚŚĂƚ ĚĞĐůŝŶĞĚ͘ dŚĞ ƚŽƉ ƉĞƌĨŽƌŵŝŶŐ ƐƚŽĐŬƐ ĨŽƌ ƚŚĞ ǁĞĞŬ ǁĞƌĞ t W/

10.00

0.0%

0.1%

-22.8%

-22.8%

16.7%

5.2%

6.9x

2.1x

4.0%

14.5%

15.50

0.0%

0.1%

-6.5%

-6.5%

10.8%

1.2%

6.1x

0.7x

10.8%

16.3%

0.55

0.0%

-19.1%

8.3%

0.6%

2.9x

0.4x

7.3%

34.5%

0.0%

0.1% 0.1%

-25.7%

11.40

-37.0%

-36.7%

-3.0%

-1.0%

34 Wema Bank PLC

36 Continental Reinsurance PLC

dZ/WW> ' (-ϵ͘ϭйͿ ǁĞƌĞ ƚŚĞ ůĂŐŐĂƌĚƐ͘ /Ŷ ƚŚĞ ĐŽŵŝŶŐ ǁĞĞŬ͕ ǁĞ ĂŶƟĐŝƉĂƚĞ ƚŚĂƚ ŝŶǀĞƐƚŽƌƐ ǁŝůů ĐŽŶƟŶƵĞ ƚŽ ƚĂŬĞ ƉƌŽĮƚ͘

Afrinvest West Africa Limited

0.0%

0.9x

-3.6%

-100.0%

37 Beta Glass PLC

55.40

0.0%

0.1%

3.0%

3.0%

13.5%

9.1%

38 Notore Chemical Industries Ltd

62.50

0.0%

0.1%

0.0%

0.0%

-13.1%

-3.6%

39 AXA Mansard Insurance PLC

1.85

3.4%

0.1%

-6.6%

-6.6%

17.6%

5.0%

40 Transcorp Hotels Plc

4.00

0.0%

0.0%

-18.4%

-18.4%

-6.4%

-3.2%

6.1x

4.1x

0.8x

0.0x

16.5%

1.6x

-6.7%

0.7x

24.4%

0.6x

0.0x

-11.7%

T o p 10 G a i n e r s

T o p 10 T r a d e s b y V o l u m e T ic k er

Vo lum e

P ric e C hg %

FB NH

35.8

1.0%

N EIM ET H

1.95

8.3%

FCM B

29.3

1.0%

C A VER T ON

1.84

8.2%

Z EN IT H B A N K

16.0

0.0%

D A N GSUGA R

12.00

7.1%

A C C ESS

11.6

1.6%

C UST OD IA N

4.85

6.6%

C OR N ER ST

9.9

-7.6%

UN IT YB N K

0.57

5.6%

WA P C O

8.1

0.0%

C OUR T VILLE

0.21

5.0%

UB A

6.1

0.0%

M A N SA R D

1.85

3.4%

T ic k er

P ric e

P ric e C hg %

D A N GSUGA R

5.9

7.1%

WA P IC

0.37

2.8%

T R A N SC OR P

5.5

-1.6%

R ED ST A R EX

3.61

2.6%

F ID ELIT YB K

5.5

0.6%

A F R IP R UD

4.50

2.3%

(+12.1%), > ZE &Z (+9.6%) and hE/dz E< (+9.6%) while dZ E^ (-16.7%), E D (-9.8%) and

5.5% 101.0%

32 NASCON Allied Industries PLC

(-6.4%), d/ (-4.8%) and ^^ (-4.4%) dragged ƉĞƌĨŽƌŵĂŶĐĞ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ĂŶŬŝŶŐ ŝŶĚĞdž ďLJ Ϭ͘ϳй ǁͬǁ͘

-42.4%

33 Julius Berger Nigeria PLC

35 Ardova PLC

;нϱ͘ϴйͿ͘ ŽŶǀĞƌƐĞůLJ͕ ƚŚĞ Kŝů Θ 'ĂƐ ŝŶĚĞdž ůĞĚ ůŽƐĞƌƐ͕

-10.0% 11.2%

T o p 10 L o s e r s

T o p 10 T r a d e s b y V a l u e T ic k er

Value

P ric e C hg %

M TNN

572.9

0.0%

T ic k er A B CTRA NS

P ric e 0.30

P ric e C hg % -9.1%

Z EN IT H B A N K

267.3

0.0%

C OR N ER ST

0.61

-7.6%

FB NH

165.4

1.0%

LA SA C O

0.25

-7.4%

GUA R A N T Y

120.4

1.4%

C UT IX

1.70

-2.9%

WA P C O

105.7

0.0%

J A IZ B A N K

0.59

-1.7%

N EST LE

75.8

0.0%

T R A N SC OR P

0.60

-1.6%

A C C ESS

74.4

1.6%

D A N GSUGA R

70.9

7.1%

FCM B

60.3

1.0%

SEP LA T

39.2

0.0%

Brokerage

Asset Management

Investment Research

Ayodeji Ebo | aebo@afrinvest.com

Ola Belgore | obelgore@afrinvest.com

Abiodun Keripe |akeripe@afrinvest.com

Adedoyin Allen | aallen@afrinvest.com

Florence Warikam | fwarikam@afrinvest.com

Adedayo Bakare | abakare@afrinvest.com

39

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 2020 ˾ T H I S D AY

MARKET NEWS

Prestige Assurance Extends N6.8bn Rights Issue Goddy Egene Prestige Assurance Plc has extended the

offer period for the its rights issue of 13,635,796,006 ordinary shares of 50 kobo each at 50 kobo per share. The issue, which

A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager.

Investors with similar objectives buy units of the Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities that willl generate their desired return.

An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the

is expected to fetch the underwriting firm about N6.8 billion ought to have closed last Thursday.

floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an investment vehicle that allows both small and large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg.

Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their investments. The assets are divided into shares that are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

GUIDE TO DATA: Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 17Sep-2020, unless otherwise stated.

However, the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) said in a notification to dealing members that it had received a confirmation

from the Securities and Exchange Commission to extend the offer period by two weeks. “With this extension, the

offer which was initially scheduled to close on Thursday, 17 September 2020 will now close on Wednesday, 30 September 2020.

Offer price: The price at which units of a trust or ETF are bought by investors.

Bid Price: The price at which Investors redeem (sell) units of a trust or ETF. Yield/Total Return: Denotes the total return an investor would have earned on his investment. Money Market Funds report Yield while others report Year- to-date Total Return.

NAV: Is value per share of the real estate assets held by a REIT on a specific date.

DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS MUTUAL FUNDS / UNIT TRUSTS AFRINVEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD aaml@afrinvest.com Web: www.afrinvest.com; Tel: +234 818 885 6757 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Afrinvest Equity Fund N/A N/A N/A Afrinvest Plutus Fund N/A N/A N/A Nigeria International Debt Fund N/A N/A N/A ALTERNATIVE CAPITAL PARTNERS LTD info@acapng.com Web: www.acapng.com, Tel: +234 1 291 2406, +234 1 291 2868 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ACAP Canary Growth Fund 0.93 0.94 2.98% ACAP Income Funds 0.79 0.79 10.34% AIICO CAPITAL LTD ammf@aiicocapital.com Web: www.aiicocapital.com, Tel: +234-1-2792974 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AIICO Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 5.55% AIICO Balanced Fund 3.03 3.12 23.74% ANCHORIA ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED info@anchoriaam.com Web:www.anchoriaam.com, Tel: 08166830267; 08036814510; 08028419180 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Anchoria Money Market 100.00 100.00 2.35% Anchoria Equity Fund 100.18 100.52 -1.75% Anchoria Fixed Income Fund 1.30 1.30 12.31% ARM INVESTMENT MANAGERS LTD enquiries@arminvestmentcenter.com Web: www.arm.com.ng; Tel: 0700 CALLARM (0700 225 5276) Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ARM Aggressive Growth Fund 14.47 14.90 -5.55% ARM Discovery Fund 341.62 351.92 -1.10% ARM Ethical Fund 30.57 31.49 5.13% ARM Eurobond Fund ($) 1.16 1.16 15.89% ARM Fixed Income Fund 1.08 1.09 8.60% ARM Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 4.16% AXA MANSARD INVESTMENTS LIMITED investmentcare@axamansard.com Web: www.axamansard.com; Tel: +2341-4488482 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AXA Mansard Equity Income Fund 97.32 98.00 1.29% AXA Mansard Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 3.65% CAPITAL EXPRESS ASSET AND TRUST LIMITED info@capitalexpressassetandtrust.com Web: www.capitalexpressassetandtrust.com ; Tel: +234 803 307 5048 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn CEAT Fixed Income Fund 2.19 2.19 19.10% Capital Express Balanced Fund(Formerly: Union Trustees Mixed Fund) 1.87 1.90 7.17% CHAPELHILL DENHAM MANAGEMENT LTD investmentmanagement@chapelhilldenham.com Web: www.chapelhilldenham.com, Tel: +234 461 0691 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Chapelhill Denham Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 5.07% Paramount Equity Fund 11.50 11.71 -8.12% Women's Investment Fund 111.13 112.10 0.64% CORDROS ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmgtteam@cordros.com Web: www.cordros.com, Tel: 019036947 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Cordros Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 4.43% Cordros Milestone Fund 2023 105.58 105.91 Cordros Milestone Fund 2028 117.55 118.39 Cordros Dollar Fund ($) 103.64 103.64 CORONATION ASSEST MANAGEMENT investment@coronationam.com Web:www.coronationam.com , Tel: 012366215 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Coronation Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 3.40% Coronation Balanced Fund 0.95 0.97 2.70% Coronation Fixed Income Fund 1.59 1.59 19.43% EDC FUNDS MANAGEMENT LIMITED mutualfundng@ecobank.com Web: www.ecobank.com Tel: 012265281 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class A 100.00 100.00 3.79% EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class B 1,000,000.00 1,000,000.00 2.67% EDC Nigeria Fixed Income Fund 1,173.54 1,186.47 5.85% FBNQUEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD invest@fbnquest.com Web: www.fbnquest.com/asset-management; Tel: +234-81 0082 0082 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn FBN Fixed Income Fund 1,411.62 1,413.17 15.61% FBN Balanced Fund 152.92 153.95 4.15% FBN Halal Fund 108.32 108.33 8.32% FBN Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 4.47% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Retail 121.32 121.73 4.43% FBN Nigeria Smart Beta Equity Fund 114.66 116.42 -11.89% FCMB ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED fcmbamhelpdesk@fcmb.com Web: www.fcmbassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 462 2596 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Legacy Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 3.07% Legacy Debt Fund 3.82 3.82 4.61% Legacy Equity Fund 1.15 1.17 1.36% Legacy USD Bond Fund 1.12 1.12 3.60% FSDH ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD coralfunds@fsdhgroup.com Web: www.fsdhaml.com; Tel: 01-270 4884-5; 01-280 9740-1 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Coral Growth Fund 3,169.55 3,204.88 4.23% Coral Income Fund 3,196.11 3,196.11 3.91% FSDH Treasury Bills Fund 100.00 100.00 4.02% GREENWICH ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmanagement@gtlgroup.com Web: www.gtlgroup.com ; Tel: +234 1 4619261-2 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Greenwich Plus Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 3.92% Nigeria Entertainment Fund 113.25 120.49 8.50%

GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmanagement@gdl.com.ng Web: www.gdl.com.ng ; Tel: +234 9055691122 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn GDL Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A INVESTMENT ONE FUNDS MANAGEMENT LTD enquiries@investment-one.com Web: www.investment-one.com; Tel: +234 812 992 1045,+234 1 448 8888 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Abacus Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 3.94% Vantage Balanced Fund 2.11 2.15 -3.55% Vantage Guaranteed Income Fund 1.00 1.00 8.34% Kedari Investment Fund (KIF) 150.69 151.43 5.13% LOTUS CAPITAL LTD fincon@lotuscapitallimited.com Web: www.lotuscapitallimited.com; Tel: +234 1-291 4626 / +234 1-291 4624 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Lotus Halal Investment Fund 1.26 1.28 7.93% Lotus Halal Fixed Income Fund 1,139.56 1,139.56 7.60% MERISTEM WEALTH MANAGEMENT LTD info@meristemwealth.com Web: http://www.meristemwealth.com/funds/ ; Tel: +234 1-4488260 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Meristem Equity Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Meristem Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A PAC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD info@pacassetmanagement.com Web: www.pacassetmanagement.com/mutualfunds; Tel: +234 1 271 8632 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn PACAM Balanced Fund 1.32 1.35 8.61% PACAM Fixed Income Fund 11.90 11.98 5.73% PACAM Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 3.29% PACAM Equity Fund 1.07 1.08 PACAM EuroBond Fund 108.19 110.74 SCM CAPITAL LIMITED info@scmcapitalng.com Web: www.scmcapitalng.com; Tel: +234 1-280 2226,+234 1- 280 2227 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn SCM Capital Frontier Fund 115.52 117.82 -3.88% SFS CAPITAL NIGERIA LTD investments@sfsnigeria.com Web: www.sfsnigeria.com, Tel: +234 (01) 2801400 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn SFS Fixed Income Fund 1.02 1.02 6.62% STANBIC IBTC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD assetmanagement@stanbicibtc.com Web: www.stanbicibtcassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 280 1266; 0700 MUTUALFUNDS Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Stanbic IBTC Balanced Fund 2,521.35 2,532.80 5.58% Stanbic IBTC Bond Fund 210.33 210.33 5.12% Stanbic IBTC Ethical Fund 0.88 0.89 -0.56% Stanbic IBTC Guaranteed Investment Fund 273.87 273.95 5.94% Stanbic IBTC Iman Fund 154.92 156.64 4.01% Stanbic IBTC Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 3.59% Stanbic IBTC Nigerian Equity Fund 7,674.15 7,756.30 -3.22% Stanbic IBTC Dollar Fund (USD) 1.21 1.21 3.95% Stanbic IBTC Shariah Fixed Income Fund 109.44 109.44 5.02% UNITED CAPITAL ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD Web: www.unitedcapitalplcgroup.com; Tel: +234 803 306 2887 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn United Capital Balanced Fund 1.16 1.18 -3.09% United Capital Bond Fund 1.85 1.85 7.18% United Capital Equity Fund 0.66 0.68 -5.77% United Capital Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 4.49% United Capital Eurobond Fund 114.76 114.76 5.03% United Capital Wealth for Women Fund 1.03 1.03 -2.16% QUANTUM ZENITH ASSET MANAGEMENT & INVESTMENTS LTD service@quantumzenithasset.com.ng Web: www.quantumzenith.com.ng; Tel: +234 1-2784219 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Zenith Equity Fund 10.31 10.43 0.32% Zenith Ethical Fund 11.49 11.58 -1.19% Zenith Income Fund 24.40 24.40 6.72% Zenith Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 3.68%

REITS NAV Per Share

Fund Name SFS Skye Shelter Fund

Yield / T-Rtn

117.93

5.15%

53.40

2.59%

Bid Price

Offer Price

Yield / T-Rtn

9.16 85.00 66.67

9.26 86.84 67.89

5.17% -10.01% -11.26%

Union Homes REIT

EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS Fund Name Lotus Halal Equity Exchange Traded Fund SIAML Pension ETF 40 Stanbic IBTC ETF 30 Fund

VETIVA FUND MANAGERS LTD Web: www.vetiva.com; Tel: +234 1 453 0697 Fund Name Vetiva Banking Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva Consumer Goods Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva Griffin 30 Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva Money Market Fund Vetiva Industrial Goods Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva S&P Nigeria Sovereign Bond Exchange Traded Fund

funds@vetiva.com Bid Price

Offer Price

Yield / T-Rtn

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

108.03

15.02%

INFRASTRUCTURE FUND Fund Name Chapel Hill Denham Nigeria Infrastructure Debt Fund

The value of investments and the income from them may fall as well as rise. Past performance is a guide and not an indication of future returns. Fund prices published in this edition are also available on each fund manager’s website and FMAN’s website at www.fman.com.ng. Fund prices are supplied by the operator of the relevant fund and are published for information purposes only.

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MONDAY SEPTEMBER 21, 2020 ˾ T H I S D AY

EDO GUBER ELECTION...

EDO GUBER ELECTION...

Oyegun: Buhari Shows Credible Election is Possible Victory is deserving, says Obi Our Correspondents Former Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief John Oyegun, has said that the governorship election held in Edo State has shown that credible election is possible in Nigeria.

Oyegun’s comment came as the 2019 vice presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mr. Peter Obi, has congratulated the Governor-elect of Edo State, Godwin Obadeki and his deputy, Philip Shuabu, for their victory at the gubernatorial election in the state last Saturday.

Oyegun said this while reacting to the outcome of the election in which Governor Godwin Obaseki emerged winner.

He commended President Muhammadu Buhari for conducting a free and fair election.

He said with the conduct of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and security agents during the election, it shows that no order was given to them.

He also hailed Edo people and all those who contributed to making the election free, fair peaceful and credible.

On his part, Obi said in a statement from his media office yesterday that the victory was deserving and a true reflection and wish of the good people of Edo State.

The former Anambra State governor said he saw the victory coming given the good record of performance of Governor Obaseki in his first term.

“Democracy is when the people are allowed to determine who leads them after weighing the records of the candidates.

Obi charged Obaseki and his deputy to see their victory as a catalyst to do more for their people.”

He also commended INEC and others who played different roles in the election for playing by the rules and urged them to continue in this direction the for sake of peace in Nigeria.

Diri: Victory was Triumph for Democracy Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has congratulated his Edo State counterpart, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, on his victory in Saturday’s governorship election.

In a statement signed by his Daniel Alabrah, his Acting Chief Press Secretary, Governor Diri said Obaseki’s resounding victory was a triumph for democracy and, indeed, the people of Edo State.

The governor noted that people’s power, as expressed in the Edo election, remained the most potent force in any democracy.

He commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for upholding the will of the Edo people despite reported pressure to unduly influence the outcome of the poll.

The governor noted that Obaseki’s re-election would give greater impetus to development of the state as he is the most popular choice of the people.

The Bayelsa governor equally congratulated the PDP for securing yet another heartwarming victory in Edo, saying he is particularly delighted that all the states in the South-South region now belong to the PDP family.

L-R: PDP National Vice Chairman, South-South, Chief Dan Orbih; PDP agent for the Edo State governorship election and House of Representatives member representing Oredo Federal Constituency, Hon. Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama; Edo State Governor and governor-elect, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; his wife, Betsy; PDP chieftain, Pascal Ugbome; Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Communication Strategy, Mr. Crusoe Osagie, during the presentation of INEC’s final results sheet to the governor-elect at his residence in GRA, Benin City...yesterday

The Will of the People Prevailed, Says Ayade Cross River State governor, Sir Ben Ayade has congratulated his Edo State counterpart, Godwin Obaseki on his re-election.

A statement signed by his Special Adviser, Media and Publicity, Christian Ita, Ayade, described Obaseki’s victory at the polls as well deserved considering his achievements in the past four years.

“I extend my warm felicitations to you on your well deserved victory in the just concluded Edo gubernatorial election. For those of us who have keenly followed your giant strides in Edo state, your victory did not come as a surprise.

“Your re-election therefore, represents a bold and emphatic testimony to the good work you have done in the past four years,” the statement quoted Ayade as saying.

He however, urged Governor Obaseki to see his “victory as a clarion call to do more for Edo people who have these four years reposed their confidence in you”.

Expressing delight that governor Obaseki’s re-election now brings the entire South south under PDP total control, the Cross River state governor urged him to be magnanimous in victory.

He also commended President Muhammadu Buhari, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies for their neutrality in the election.

Makinde: INEC Must Build on Positives PDP House Caucus Congratulates Obaseki, for Future Elections Says Democracy at Play Oyo State Governor, Mr. Seyi Makinde, yesterday congratulated the re-elected governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki, and his deputy, Philip Shaibu, describing their re-election as a victory for the people of the state.

Makinde, in a congratulatory message to Obaseki, the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the Edo State governorship election, also praised the National Campaign Council of the PDP led by the Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike for a job well done.

He congratulated the duo of Obaseki and Shaibu, on what he described as a well-deserved victory, noting that it was gratifying to see the will of the people triumph.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr. Taiwo Adisa, indicated that Governor Makinde lauded the PDP National Campaign Council led Governor Nyesom Wike, for making the party proud.

He maintained that the PDP ran an issue-based campaign and proved its democratic tendencies all through the process, which started from the ward, local government and state congresses, (which were overseen by Makinde himself), to the party primaries and subsequently the campaign and election.

Victory True Reflection of the Wishes of Edo People, Says Ortom Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom, has congratulate Governor Godwin Obaseki on his victory at the just concluded Edo State governorship election.

Ortom yesterday in a statement issued by his media aide, Terver Akase, described Governor Obaseki’s victory as a true reflection of the wishes of Edo people and not the machinations of some individuals and self-made gods.

The governor commendsed the dogged determination of Governor Obaseki to overcome intimidation and uphold the mandate his people popularly gave him.

He equally congratulates the people of Edo State, Peoples Democratic Party, PDP and Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike who was the Chairman of PDP Campaign Council for the 2020 Edo governorship election.

He said the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) also deserves plaudits for the credible conduct of the polls without yielding to pressure to thwart the will of the people

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the House of Representatives has congratulated Governor Godwin Obaseki on his victory at the just concluded governorship election in Edo State.

The caucus in a statement by its leader, Hon. Kingsley Chinda said Governor Obaseki’s victory depicted democracy as a reflection of the people’s will to elect a credible leader that will serve the interest of the people and not a few.

Chinda while congratulating the governor and PDP also congratulated the people of Edo State for coming out en masse to vote and protect same despite hitches of voting in some local government areas.

He said: “I want to congratulate Governor Godwin Obaseki on his victory at the poll and his conduct at the elections. This is a sign that Nigerians and especially the people of Edo state have woken up to the fact that their votes must count and say no to god-fatherism politics in Nigeria. Though the election witnessed the display of security operatives laying siege on Governors of the Peoples Democratic Party, it did not deter or distract voters from voting a leader that will pilot the affairs of the state in the next four years.”

Chinda also advised the APC candidate, Osagie Ize-Iyamu to accept the result in good faith and join hands with Obaseki to provide quality service to the people of Edo State.

Edo Election: Good Elixir for Ondo, Says PDP The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State yesterday congratulated Governor Godwin Obaseki on his resounding victory at the Saturday’s Elections in Edo State.

The party in a statement signed by its Publicity Secretary, Perete Ikandu, said the election was a straight fight between “ Federal might” and the “People’s Might”.

It noted that at the end of the exercise, the people triumphed.

He said: “We also congratulate the Edo people for their doggedness and rejecting godfathers who wanted to make Edo State, an extension of their business and political empire.

“There is no doubt, this victory is not only for Obaseki and PDP family, but also a good omen for October 10 Gubernatorial election in Ondo State. Our hope is rekindled and our energy revitalised.

“The PDP, wishes to appreciate the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for not subverting the wishes of the people.

In spite of isolated cases of non compliance, the outcome of the election is a reflection of what the people wanted.”

The statement also congratulated the Chairman of the National Campaign Council for Edo 2020 Governorship Election, Mr. Nyesom Wike, the Giver or of Oyo State, Mr Seyi Makinde, other members of the Campaign Council, the National Chairman of PDP, Prince Uche Secondus, entire National and State leadership of the PDP for this hard earned victory.

It said Ondo is next, as victory is sure for Eyitayo Jegede, SAN on October 10, 2020.

Natasha Akpoti: Victory Shows True Power Belongs to the People, Not Godfathers The governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the November 1 6, 2019 election in Kogi State, Natasha Akpoti, has congratulated the incumbent Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki on his outstanding victory at the poll which returned him as second term governor of Edo State.

Akpoti in a telephone interview with journalists, said the victory transcends political platforms because it shows that true power belongs to the people not godfathers.

The SPD flag bearer who is still not happy with the Supreme court verdict on the controversial Kogi State governorship election, said the outpour of votes in favour of Obaseki only proves that sheer determination by the people can make goals prevail.

She explained that godfatherism breeds criminal politics, usurps the rights and choices of the people; and worsens the sociopolitical development of Nigeria.

“Eradicating this vice will do Nigeria’s democracy a whole lot of good.”

She commended the people of Edo State for their resilience in the face of intimidation as they came out en masse to exercise their franchise without fear or favour.

According to her, Obaseki was a performer, having done well in his first tenure, the people connected well with him and ensured they voted for him because they are tired of godfathers.

Opposition Parties Congratulate Obaseki on Re-election The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) has congratulated Governor Godwin Obaseki on his victory and reelection as Edo State Governor.

CUPP in a statement issued by its spokesman Ikenga Ugochinyere viewed Obaseki’s victory and re-election for second term as a triumph of people’s ultimate power to freely elect their leaders without any coercion.

The coalition also commended the neutrality of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in the exercise, saying that it’s a promising sign for a new decent electoral order in the country.

CUPP said, ‘’There is no doubt that this is a hard-earned victory considering the tension that enveloped the nation’s political space ahead of the electoral contest. The people of Edo State, with the massive support given to Governor Obaseki, have spoken with a loud voice that they will no longer tolerate electoral rasacality from people within and outside the state, no matter how highly-placed.’’ ‘’They have, also with their action, shown Nigerian voters how to stand up against the All Progressives Congress bandit politics by resisting Governors Hope Uzodimma, Abdullahi Ganduje and Yahaya Bello who were unleashed on the state for the sole purpose of subverting people’s will as it happened in their various states.’’ ‘’Opposition political parties also wish to put on record the exceptional courage displayed by Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State in ensuring that the people’s will prevails in Edo State.”

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MONDAY SEPTEMBER 21, 2020 ˾ T H I S D AY

EDO GUBER ELECTION...

EDO GUBER ELECTION...

Edo Rejected Bullion Van Democracy, Says Bode George Our Correspondents The leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagos State, Chief Bode George, has lauded the people of Edo State for rejecting what he described as the “bullion van democracy” of the All Progressives Congress (APC) with victory given to Governor Godwin Obaseki in Saturday’s election.

George in a statement said with the victory, “the good people of Edo State have spoken loud and clear. They have spoken without ambiguity, without equivocal expression. They were bold and brave.They rejected the bullion van democracy.They stood against outside interlopers.”

He stressed that “the Edo people were firm and committed to the purity of the democratic process. In the end, their will has prevailed.

“They have made their choice in the person of Governor Godwin Obaseki who himself had braved all odds and all the dark schemings and intrigues of the undemocratic forces. He has triumphed over what seemed a great hurdle.”

He congratulated Obaseki “for this well deserved victory. I congratulate our party managers who pulled through this victory by ensuring that the right things were done at the right time.

Obaseki’s Victory Ends Godfatherism in Nigerian Politics, PDP Chieftain A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta State, Chief Sunny Onuesoke, has congratulated incumbent Edo State governor, Godwin Obaseki over his fresh mandate, consequent on his victory in the weekend governorship election.

Onuesoke, while speaking with journalists in Benin yesterday shortly after Governor Obaseki was declared winner of the election, said Obaseki’s victory “signals a new dawn and the ultimate end of godfatherism in Nigeria politics.”

The former PDP gubernatorial aspirant in Delta State also applauded the people of Edo State for standing by their Governor to finally put an end godfather to godfatherism in the state.

“The victory confirmed that power ultimately belongs to the people and not to some fathom individuals who think they can play God and toy with the will and wishes of the people,” he asserted.

Onuesoke maintained that the people of Edo has shown the former Governor of Lagos state, Senator Ahmed Tinubu that Edo state remains Edo state and cannot be likened to Lagos state that has remained under his vice grip for over two decades.

Umahi Hails INEC over Transparent Poll Ebonyi State Governor, Mr. David Umahi, has congratulated Governor Godwin Obaseki for his re-election at the just concluded governorship election in Edo State.

In a statement issued by the Special Assistant to Governor Umahi on Media and Publicity, Mr. Francis Nwaze, the governor observed that, though it was a keenly contested election, Obaseki’s re-election has yet again rekindled hope in the nation’s democracy and the electoral process which has allowed, unhindered, the wishes and aspirations of the people to prevail.

Umahi, pointed out that Obaseki’s electoral value and his capacity to deliver democratic dividends, that explains why the Edo people closed ranks and returned him in a landslide victory.

Umahi urged the re-elected governor, Obaseki to remember not the former things, but propound approaches for greater Edo State which unarguably underlie his re-election.

The governor who had prophesied victory for Obaseki on January 24, 2020 noted that no man can unseat Obaseki for second term.

Obaseki’s Victory Triumph of People’s Will, Says Mark Former President of the Senate, Senator David Mark, has described the victory of Governor Godwin Obaseki in last Saturday’s gubernatorial poll in Edo state as a triumph of the will of the people.

Mark, in a congratulatory message yesterday to Obaseki and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) family, described the victory as freedom for the people and enthronement of democratic culture and practice in the country.

According to him, the overwhelming victory of the PDP candidate is a testimony of the people’s endorsement of good governance being demonstrated by the Obaseki administration in the last four years in Edo State.

The former Senate helmsman however told the governor to be magnanimous in victory by extending hands of fellowship to his opponent just as he urged him to spread social amenities to all parts of the state irrespective of political differences.

He said: “The entire state is your constituency. Demonstrate leadership and magnanimity as always to all. Be steadfast and work hard as always to justify the mandate and trust of the citizens of Edo State”.

Jubilation in Kano over Obaseki’s Victory There was jubilation yesterday in Kano among the loyalists of former Governor of Kano State, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso over the victory of Governor Godwin Obaseki of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State.

Kwankwaso’s supporters jubilated at his Lugard Avenue residence in Kano and Mr. Abba Kabir Yusuf’s office, off Ahmadu Bello Way in Kano.

They dance and sang praises to God for the turn of events in Edo State in favour of the PDP. Mr Hashim Sulaiman Dungurawa who spoke with reporters, said the results announced were commendable, noting that with PDP, a new Edo State would emerge.

DIVERSIFICATION ON THEIR MINDS...

Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), Mr. Segun Awolowo (left), and the Minister of Communication and Digital Economy, Dr. Isa Pantami, during Awolowo’s visit to the minister for the building of strategic partnership for Zero Oil Plan in Abuja... recently “You see, people are already jubilating immediately the results were announced. Our political leader, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso was there and we all knew how he was so serious towards the party’s victory. We are all optimistic that PDP will take over the country in 2023”.

“Democracy is back to action because people were allowed to vote for the party of their choice and we are hoping that will continue in the country.”

According to him, “As per as I am concerned, the election clearly showed that Nigerians are tired of APC. The citizens are crying and suffering from their style of governance. We are also confident that in 2023, PDP will win Kano again.

Senate Minority Caucus, Ekweremadu Laud Obaseki’s Victory The Senate Minority Caucus and the former Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, have lauded the re-election of Governor Godwin Obaseki in the Saturday’s gubernatorial election in Edo state.

The caucus and the ranking senator in their separate reaction to Obaseki’s resounding victory at the poll emphasised that the election result has clearly shown that godfatherism is dead for good as no individual can play God. The Minority Caucus in a statement by the Senate Minority Leader, Senator Eyinnaya Abaribe, stressed that the victory of Obaseki signalled a new dawn and the ultimate end of godfatherism in Nigerian politics.

Senator Abaribe who also hailed the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for it’s tenacity and resilience in the face of manifest intimidations, said the victory further confirmed that power ultimately belongs to the people and not to some fanthom individuals who think they can play God and toy with the will and wishes of the people.

“Going forward, I believe that the Edo people through their overwhelming endorsement of Governor Obaseki and PDP sent the right signal across, affirming that never again should any political party succumb to the undemocratic machination of some few, who like to play tin-god because of their supposedly rich pocket.

In his reaction, the Deputy President of the Senate and a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Campaign Council for Edo State, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, who commended the people of Edo State, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and the security agencies for “rising to the occasion”, described the exercise as a huge relief given what he described as the “dwindling fortunes of the nation’s electoral process in recent years”.

He further stated that the Edo governorship election had proved, once again, that no man could effectively play God. Ekweremadu submitted that the Edo poll has shown that the nation can get its electoral process right.

His Excellency, Governor Godwin Obaseki for securing the trust and faith of the good people of Edo State to superintend over the affairs of the state for another four years.

Fintiri Urges Obaseki to Write His Name in Gold Adamawa State Governor Hon. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, has encouraged Governor Godwin Obaseki to write his name in gold as one who changed the politics of Edo State by putting godfatherism to rest.

Fintiri said this yesterday in Yola in his congratulating massage to Obaseki, signed by his Chef Press Secretary, Mr. Humwashi Wonosikou He said Godwin Obaseki victory at the poll has put to rest godfatherism and has also changed the political landscape of Edo State.

“Governor Obaseki was declared winner and returned elected by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Benin after beating APC’s Ize Iyamu in the Edo September, 19th governorship election according to Governor Fintiri is a victory well deserved given his widespread acceptance across the state,” he said Fintiri further revealed that the September 19 election was an affirmation that has further demonstrated that his election is indeed a true reflection of the wishes of the people of Edo state.

Fintiri who is the Vice Chairman of the PDP National Campaign Council therefore urged Governor Obaseki and the PDP to extend a hand of fellowship to the opposition and dedicate himself to re-uniting the people and be the governor to all.

Edo Poll Shows Nigeria Has Capacity to Conduct Credible Poll, Says Fayose Former Governor of Ekiti State, Mr. Ayodele’s Fayose, has said the outcome of the Edo gubernatorial election has confirmed that Nigeria can conduct a credible poll, if there is no political interference from those at the helms of affairs.

He said with an unbiased Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies, that the country can conduct free, fair and hitch-free poll.

Fayose said this in his congratulatory message on Sunday to Governor Godwin Obaseki on his victory over the candidate of the All Progressives Congress, Osagie Ize-Iyamu in the Edo governorship election.

The statement personally signed by the governor said: “The outcome of Edo State election has shown once again that we can have free, fair and credible elections if those in control of the FG allow INEC and security agencies to do their jobs without interference.

“I congratulate Governor Godwin Obaseki and urge him to see this victory as a challenge by the people of Edo State to do more for them.

“Most importantly, I wish to remind him that PDP came to his rescue in his hour of political need and he should remain in the party, not minding the pressure that will be mounted on him.”

House Minority Hails Obaseki, Commends It’s a Well-deserved Second Term for Obaseki, Edo People Says Emmanuel Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, has congratulated the Governor elect of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki.

Emmanuel in his congratulatory message issued yesterday, noted that the PDP governorship candidate was massively and overwhelmingly re-elected by the Edo people for a well-deserved second term in office.

The congratulatory message released by the Chief Press Secretary and Senior Special Assistant, Media to the governor, Ekerete Udoh, Governor Emmanuel thanked God for ushering in a peaceful and credible election in Edo State.

Drawing similarities to what happened last year in his state, Emmanuel said, “Last year, the good people of Akwa Ibom State rose in unison and said no to godfatherism and the much touted federal might, declaring their fidelity to the supremacy of our Only God in the Affairs of man.

“Today, our brothers and sisters in Edo State have replicated the same wholesome faith and belief in God over the boastful exuberance of ordinary mortals by voting to return a leader who best represents their values and ethos; a doer and not a talker.

“On behalf of the government and the good people of Akwa Ibom State, I join our brethren in Edo to congratulate our brother,

The Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, has congratulated Governor Godwin Obaseki on his reelection by the people of Edo State.

The Minority Leader, in a statement yesterday described Obaseki’s re-election as well-deserving given his sterling performance in developing the state and empowering the people during his first tenure.

Elumelu urged Governor Obaseki to continue in providing good governance for the people of Edo state, which was the basis of his incontestable victory in the election.

He praised the people of Edo State for the courage they exhibited in coming our en masse not only to vote but also to protect their votes and monitor the process to the end.

The lawmaker also applauded the Chairman of the Southsouth PDP Governors Forum, Governor Ifeanyi Okowa for the leadership role he played towards the success of the election.

The lawmaker further commended Governor Nyesom Wike, the Chairman of PDP National Campaign Council, Governor Seyi Makinde, as well as other PDP governors, the PDP National Assembly Caucus, leaders, elders and teeming members of the party in Edo state, the South South zone and the nation at large for their roles in upholding a free, fair and credible electoral process in Edo state.

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MONDAY SEPTEMBER 14, 2020 ˾ T H I S D AY

NEWSEXTRA

REA Denies Corruption Allegation, Says Solar Projects Followed Due Process Kingsley Nweze in Abuja

The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has dismissed allegations of corruption levelled against four top officials of the agency.

The agency said that the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) did not issue Certificates of No Objection for the projects, describing the accusation by a contractor who petitioned the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) as false, baseless and unfounded.

A statement by the agency’s Director of Promotions, Information and Outreach, Ayang Ogbe, said the Managing Director and three directors of the agency who appeared before the ICPC on September 17, 2020 for questioning over

alleged corruption, did not do anything wrong but acted in strict compliance with the provisions of relevant public procurement laws.

Ogbe stated that the solar power projects executed at COVID-19 isolation centres in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Lagos and Ogun states followed due process.

He explained that the solar power projects under reference were executed at the behest of President Muhammadu Buhari who in a nationwide broadcast on national COVID-19 response directed public institutions and encouraged private organisations well as individuals to support government programmes in tackling the pandemic.

The agency’s spokesman noted that the award of contracts for

Corruption: SERAP Asks Buhari to Stop Creation of New Agency Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has sent an open letter to President Muhammadu Buhari, urging him to “urgently” instruct Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Mr. Abubakar Malami (SAN), to withdraw the proposed executive bill to amend the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Act. SERAP said if passed and signed into law, the creation of the new agency “will severely undermine the commission’s independence, and render it a ‘toothless bulldog or toothless tiger’.”

Also, the Presidential Advisory Committee Against Corruption (PACAC) headed by Professor Itse Sagay had last week raised concerns that “the government is pushing a bill to amend the EFCC Act, 2004, which will demolish the anti-corruption infrastructure of Nigeria, and confer an enormous power of control of the anti-graft agency on

the office of the Attorney General of the Federation.”

In the letter dated 19 September 2020 and signed by SERAP deputy director, Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation said, “The bill, which is apparently designed to undermine the independence, integrity, and freedom of action of anti-corruption agencies, ignores the seriousness of grand corruption and its impact on Nigerians’ human rights, the rule of law, principles of good governance, development, as well as the threat corruption poses to the country’s constitutional order.

“By pushing to turn the EFCC into a department in the Federal Ministry of Justice, and effectively bring it under the control of the Attorney General; and to subject the appointment of the agency’s head to the approval of the Directorate of State Security, your government would seem to indicate that it is not interested in combating corruption and halting its putrefying effects.

the projects were in compliance with the provisions of the Public Procurement Act 2007 as well as Appropriation Act 2020.

He explained that “the agency adopted emergency procurement method. This is in line with

Bauchi State chapters of the 22 political parties deregistered by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for what was described as lack of national spread and nonperformance, however, ordered to be reregistered by the Court of Appeal, Abuja Division, have called on the INEC and Bauchi State Independent Electoral Commission (BASIEC) to as a matter of fairness include their names and logos on the ballot papers for future elections.

While addressing journalists at the NUJ press centre yesterday, the 22 political parties stressed that following the Court of Appeal judgment, INEC was supposed to have recognised and included their names and logos on the ballot papers without hesitation.

The Chairmen of YPP, Ahmed Tijjani Aminu, who spoke on behalf of the political parties,

said: “It is accepted that political parties are mechanisms that ensure the attainment of fundamental rights of all Nigerians who share similar aims, opinions, and ideology.

Ogun State Bureau of Electrical Engineering Services and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) dated April 3, 2020 and April 7, 2020 respectively began a process of procuring solar-hybrid power solutions for the NCDC

Isolation and Treatment Centres at Yaba, Lagos, University of Abuja Teaching Hospital Gwagwalada in the Federal Capital Territory and the Ikene and Iberekodo centres in Ogun State.”

NEPC, Communication, Agric Ministries Partner on Zero Oil Plan Sunday Okobi The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy and the Ministry of Agriculture, have expressed commitment towards building strategic partnerships on NEPC Zero-Oil plan.

This agreement was reached when NEPC led by its Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Segun Awolowo, paid a courtesy visit to the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr. Isa Ali Pantami, to meet with the Minister of Agriculture, Alhaji Sabo Nanono, with the duo pledging their supports for export business in Nigeria.

In a statement issued by the media office of Awolowo at the weekend, he stated that while presenting the zero-oil plan, they discussed avenues for renewed partnership among NEPC, the ministry of communication, and agriculture to support and develop the Zero-Oil plan.

He stated that the ministry was created to facilitate Information and Communication Technology (ICT) as a key tool in the transformation agenda for Nigeria in the areas of job creation, economic growth and transparency of governance.

On his part, the minister commended the efforts of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) and re-affirmed that “our strength as a country lies in the synergy between information technology, agriculture and all other aspects of the economy.”

Pantami addressed the need to develop the Nigerian

22 Deregistered Political Parties in Bauchi Demand Re-registration by INEC Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi

sections 42 and 43 of the Public Procurement Act,2007. This process is in order and was upheld by the BPP”.

The statement read in parts, “In compliance with the foregoing, REA, acting on requests from

More often than not, the growing political parties in Nigeria tend to suffer most from the might of the ruling party, opinions, and ideology, as well as from the might of the large ruling party.”

non-oil export sector through youth development in relation to digital economy.

According to the statement, they agreed on the need to promote the digital economy to boost export growth and facilitate international revenue generation, job creation and enable poverty alleviation.

The Minister of Communications

and Digital Economy expressed determination to fully support the Zero-Oil plan.

On his own, the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Nanono, emphasised the need for strong collaborations among industry stakeholders.

He said the ministry promoted the production and supply of raw materials to agro industries,

provide markets for the products of the industrial sector, generate foreign exchange and aid rural socio-economic development, and that all activities aligned with the Zero-Oil plan.

As a member of the National Committee on Export Promotion, he pledged the unwavering support of his ministry to the plan.

Principal: School to Proceed with SS3 Examinations despite Building Collapse Fears of disruptions in the scheduled National Examination Council (NECO) examinations for Senior Secondary School (SS3) and Junior Secondary students of Excel College in Ejigbo, Lagos State, whose building collapsed last Saturday morning, have been allayed by the school management, saying convenient facilities are in place for the remainder of the final papers which will start in two weeks’ time.

A part of the school building collapsed last Saturday without any casualty, and consequently,

the massive main building was demolished on the order of the state Governor, Babajide Sanwaolu.

Speaking yesterday, the Principal of the school, Lady Kehinde Oke, described the incident as very unfortunate, but thanked God that no life was lost.

According to her, “Firstly, we are immensely grateful to Almighty God that no life was lost. Much as it is natural to feel the pain of such a monumental loss in infrastructure, we give glory to God because we didn’t lose any student, staff or anybody at the end of the day.

“We want to assure our parents and students that we have taken the development in good faith, and working hard to mitigate its effects on scheduled resumption of the students, especially the remainder of the SS3 final examinations in the coming weeks. We are arranging facilities where the students will sit for the examinations. Parents and students have nothing to fear.

We shall inform all the relevant authorities of our plans and actions.

The students are guaranteed the traditional quality environment for the examinations.

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MONDAY SEPTEMBER 21, 2020 ˾ T H I S D AY

24 HOURS...

24 HOURS...

Dangote Urges FG to Embrace Concrete Roads for Durability Ejiofor Alike The Group Executive Director in charge of Strategy, Portfolio Development and Capital Projects, Dangote Industries Limited, Mr. Devakumar Edwin last weekend appealed to the federal government to embrace concrete road and use cement for the construction of its roads in Nigeria for durability purpose.

Edwin, who made this known during an interview with select journalists over the weekend, said it will be to the benefit of Nigerians and even the federal government to embrace the option of using concrete for roads in the country.

Aside from being very cheap, he said concrete roads are more durable and that its maintenance cost is near zero. “We are pushing

for Nigeria to do a concrete road.

It is cheaper to do a concrete road that will last 50 years than to do a bitumen road. It will also help in eliminating corruption because if you go and build a bitumen road, it will have to be adequately maintained unlike a concrete road that is very durable.”

He further explained that concrete roads have a long life span, ranging to fifty years or even more compared to asphalt roads that can barely last ten years or twelve years. Furthermore, unlike asphalt roads, a concrete road does not require frequent maintenance and patching.

Concrete roads, according to him, also have the advantage of not getting deflected under the wheels of loaded trucks, this makes it consumes 15-20 per

cent less fuel if compared to asphalt road. It also has resistant to automobile fuel spillage and extreme weather.

Meanwhile, it would be recalled that Dangote Group has commenced the construction of concrete roads in various states across the country, particularly in Lagos, Bauchi, Kogi, Kaduna and Ogun states.

A source in the Dangote

cement company said: “We are very happy at the moment. We can categorically state that we are in more than five states across the country already constructing roads. The reception has been wonderful. State governments are beginning to see the need to embrace concrete roads and we are very happy at the way things are currently going,” the source said.

Executive Director in the Dangote Group, Mr. Mansur Ahmed recently at the Summit of the NESG in Transcorp Hilton also urged the three tiers of Government to embrace the use of concrete roads in Nigeria. He said concrete roads makes more economic sense for a country like Nigeria, as the use of Asphalt has left the roads in deplorable

conditions. Noting that asphalt road is no longer in vogue in developed climes, he said the construction of concrete road is faster and can last for half a century compare to Asphalt.

According to him, in the construction of concrete roads, the cement raw materials are readily available while Asphalt is imported into the country.

Northern Elders Ask Buhari to Rejig Nigeria’s Security Apparatus Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja Some elders from North-east region yesterday said they were disturbed by the worsening security situation in the country, maintaining that excuses tendered by the service chiefs for non-performance were no longer tenable.

In a statement issued in Abuja and signed by the Chairman of the group, Mr. Zana Goni, under the Coalition of North East Elders for Peace and Development (CNEEPD), they called on the federal government to implement

the recent resolution of the National Assembly asking him to review the country’s security architecture.

They regretted that the people had misconstrued their silence for connivance, noting that the geographical background of the security chiefs has nothing to do with it.

According to them, their belief that things would get better as has always been promised by the security heads and assurances of the president, prompted their patience.

Fresh Cult Clash Claims Two Lives in A’Ibom Community Okon Bassey in Uyo Another cults clash has claimed two lives in Akwa Ibom State community, it has been learnt.

The clash, which occurred last Saturday in Inen Ikot Etete village in Oruk Anam Local Government Area of the state, was between De Balm and Iceland confraternities.

Sources told THISDAY yesterday that members of De Balm cult group caught a member of the Iceland rival group in his family compound and attack him by cutting his body to pieces.

Seeing how severe the attack was, family members of the victim and other villagers were said to have run away for their lives to safety.

An eyewitness, Mr. Okon Udo Idung, said the second victim identified as ‘OSAboy’, who is a member of the community Vigilance group, was also attacked.

“The cultists gave him cut and dismembered his body leaving him at the pool of his blood to die,” he said.

Idung explained that OSAboy was not spared by the cultists just to hide their identity because he rammed into their operations knowing that the victim can identified them for possible arrest.

He said: “They caught him after the first person was killed.

We heard when he was shouting for help but the cultists did not

let him go, as they killed him on the spot just to hide their identities to escape arrest.

The state Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Frederick N-Nudam, said the Divisional Police Officer in Oruk Anam confirmed the cult clash occasioned by the killing of two persons in Inen Ikot Eteye.

He said the state Commissioner of Police, Amiengheme Andrew, has mobilised officers from the Anti-Kidnapping Unit to join forces with Anti-Cultism squad to restore normalcy in the area.

“I called the DPO of Oruk Anam LGA, and he confirmed that there was an incident of cult clash in the area.

“But as soon as the incident occurred, the Commissioner of police mobilised officers, made up of anti-cultism, anti-kidnapping to join forces with Operation Flush stationed there, and the area has been subjected to serious surveillance.

“As we speak, some suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident, and we hope that the police would be able to bring the situation to normalcy,” he said.

Killing in Inen community has become rampant, as scores of young persons have been killed through rival cult clashes in the past six months leaving community leaders and security agencies helpless.

CONDOLENCE VISIT...

L-R: Minister of Environment, Dr. Muhammad Mahmoud; Chief of Staff to the President, Prof. Ibrahim Gambari; Minister of Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika; and Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, when the Kaduna State governor welcomed the federal government’s delegation to the burial of the late Emir of Zazzau in Kaduna State...yesterday

UK Spends £1.4m on COVID-19 Palliative in Borno, Benue, Kaduna Michael Olugbode in Maiduguri United Kingdom has spent £1.4 million on COVID-19 palliatives in three northern states of Borno, Benue and Kaduna.

UK disbursed the fund through its department for the Administration of Overseas Aid in the Department for International Development (DFID).

The fund was disbursed in Borno State in partnership with Christian Aid (CAID), the Mercy Vincent Foundation and EYN Project.

Speaking at a leaning and reflection meeting on ‘Localised Preparedness and Response to Primary and Secondary Impacts of COVID-19 on IDPs, Returnees and Vulnerable Populations in hard-to-reach areas of Nigeria’ held at the

weekend in Maiduguri, the Cash Coordinator of CAID, Mr. Sendi Dauda, said the DFID, through the project, focuses on: “Supporting and empowering vulnerable households to successfully deal with the effects of COVID-19 and reduce the risk of infection.”

Dauda said in Borno State alone, 6,374 households benefited from the money in four local government areas

of Maiduguri, Dikwa, Jere and Konduga.

He disclosed that most of the beneficiaries are from internally displaced persons (IDPs) camps in the benefiting local government areas.

Dauda said the project has brought smiles on the faces of many of the displaced persons and have aided in reducing their vulnerability to the COVID-19 pandemic.

PANDEF Wants Obaseki to Be Magnanimous inVictory Deji Elumoye in Abuja and Ernest Chinwo in Port Harcourt The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has congratulated Governor Godwin Obaseki on his victory in last Saturday’s Edo State governorship election.

It therefore appealed to the re-elected governor to be magnanimous in victory and also called on all stakeholders in the

state to accept the outcome of the poll as the decision of the people, and work with the governor in the interest of the peace, stability and development of the state.

PANDEF in a statement issued yesterday evening by its National Chairman, Air Commodore Idongesit Nkanga (rtd) described Obaseki’s reelection as Governor of Edo State for another four years,

as a vote of confidence on him by the people of Edo State for his performance in the last four years.

The group further commended the people of Edo State for their peaceful conduct during the election as well as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and the security agencies for providing a level-playing field, and allowing the will of

the people to prevail.

PANDEF stated that it was impressed with Obaseki’s antecedent and will therefore continue to identify with him “and the other five governors of the SouthSouth geo-political zone, as well as, all critical stakeholders, in our efforts to foster unity, peace, and the development of the region, through restructuring”.

Ebonyi Lifts Ban on Worship Centres, Cinemas, Others Ebonyi State Governor, Mr. David Umahi, yesterday lifted the restrictions he slammed on all public gatherings in the state.

In a statement issued yesterday by the Commissioner for Information and State Orientation, Uchenna Orji, the governor said he was exercising the powers conferred on him by the Ebonyi State COVID-19 and other Dangerous Infectious Diseases and Related Matters Law 005 of 2020.

Umahi, had in the wake of

the outbreak of the Coronavirus pandemic in the country, placed restrictions on worship centres, event centres and other public places, apparently to curtail the spread of the virus.

He added, “The lifting of the ban is in the exercise of the powers conferred on the governor by provisions of Ebonyi State COVID-19 and other Dangerous Infectious Diseases and Related Matters Law 005 of 2020 and other relevant Laws.

“In this regard, therefore, the

Governor has directed that all restrictions in respect of movement order on public burials/ wake keeps, weddings, conferences, meetings, festivals, religious services/ gatherings, etc are hereby lifted.”

Umahi also directed the lifting of restrictions placed on public places such as event centres, bars, places of worship, educational institutions, public parks, night clubs, cinemas, viewing centres and other such public places.

“That all restrictions on

the conduct of business and commercial activities are hereby rescinded,” he added.

He also reiterated that all public and private schools from primary to tertiary levels shall re-open on 5th October 2020.

The governor, however, noted that all regulations in respect of wearing of facemasks, washing of hands, use of hand sanitisers and social distancing are still in force in public places, events and gatherings.

MONDAY SEPTEMBER 21, 2020 â&#x20AC;¢ T H I S D AY

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Ë&#x153; ͺ͚Ë&#x153; ͺ͸ͺ͸ Ëž T H I S D AY

MONDAYSPORTS

Group Sports Editor Duro Ikhazuagbe Email duro.ikhazuagbe@thisdaylive.com 0811 181 3083 SMS ONLY

I TA L I A N S E R I E A

Osimhen Makes Winning Start as Napoli Beat Parma Femi Solaja with agency report Nigerian forward, Victor Osimhen, 21, started his Italian Serie A campaign in flying start yesterday as his new club, Napoli snatched an away 2-0 win at Parma Calcio.

Osimhen, who became Napoliâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s record signing when he joined from Lille in the summer for a reported â&#x201A;Ź70 million, was brought on for his debut after an hour for Diego Demme in Sundayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Serie A match and made an instant impact in their win.

The Super Eagles striker almost marked his debut with a goal on 80 minutes but saw his effort go just

off target.

Dries Mertens opened scoring for Napoli in the 64th minute before Lorenzo Insigne doubled the lead on 77 minutes.

The win puts Napoli top in the league table ahead of Fiorentina on goals difference.

Meanwhile, Napoli coach, Gennaro Gattuso, who is notoriously hard to please dished out rare praises yesterday when describing his new Nigerian signing Osimhen as a â&#x20AC;&#x153;young lad with the head of a 40-year-oldâ&#x20AC;?. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I was struck by Osimhenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s serious attitude,â&#x20AC;? said Gattuso. â&#x20AC;&#x153;He hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forgotten where he came from and the sacrifices he made. â&#x20AC;&#x153;He built himself up on his own and I congratulate him

for his will and desire. He is a young lad with the head of a 40-year-old, I hope he doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t make mistakes and doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t change his attitude,â&#x20AC;? observed the former AC Milan defence strongman.

Gattuso said he wanted to get Napoli back into the top four again after last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s turbulent season where they finished seventh after a late recovery and won the Coppa Italia as consolation. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s natural that given the history of the last ten years we want to return to the top four,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I want to see a well organised team that have clear principles in their heads and that know how to make themselves available in difficult moments.â&#x20AC;?

I N T E R N AT I O N A L F R I E N D L I E S

Shehu Abdullahi Likely to be Overlooked

by Eagles Coaches Nigerian defender, Shehu Abdullahi, 27, is likely to be overlooked by the Super Eagles technical crew for next monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s friendlies against Cote dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Ivoire and Tunisia because he has not been active since he parted ways with Turkish club Bursaspor.

SCORENigeria.com.ng reported on Saturday, Shehu posted an emotional farewell message to his Turkish club, saying he wishes to pursue a new challenge while wishing them the best going forward.

His lack of action since July has effectively dropped him from the squad coach Gernot Rohr will name this week

for next monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s matches.

In his absence, Chidozie Awaziem and uncapped Kingsley Ehizibue will be now expected to battle for the right-back position for the matches in Austria.

Awaziem, for one, stood in for Shehu at last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s AFCON in Egypt.

Meanwhile, Cypriot First Division club AC Omonia have announced the acquisition of Abdullahi Shehu on a two-year deal.

The Nigeria international is returning to Cyprus for a second spell in the division, having worn the colours of Anorthosis Famagusta for two

Transfer: Troost-Ekong on the Radar of Watford Nigeria international defender, William TroostEkong is being linked with an imminent move to Championship club Watford.

Udine-based local newspaper Messaggero Veneto via mondoudinese reported in its print edition that Watford owner Gino Pozzo has been in touch with Troost-Ekong and a five-year deal is on the table waiting for the central defender â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s signature.

The Hornets are in the market for defensive reinforcements following the injury sustained by fullback Marc Navaro against Oxford United in the League Cup five days ago.

Troost-Ekong played for the academy teams of Fulham and Tottenham Hotspur before joining Groningen in 2013.

Since 2018, the Super Eagles assistant captain has been on the books of Udinese and is credited with 66 appearances in all competitions.

If his move to Watford

goes through as expected, the centre back will link up with international teammate Isaac Success and Nigeria U23 international Tom DeleBashiru.

Ekong didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t feature in yesterdayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s friendly between Udinese and SPAL amid speculation linking him with a departure from the Bianconeri.

seasons, from 2016-2018.

Shehu has joined AC Omonia as a free agent following the end of his contract with Bursaspor who missed out on promotion to the Turkish Super Lig at the end of last season.

Abdullahi racked up 48 appearances for Anorthosis Famagusta in the Protathlima Cyta across two seasons, scoring three goals and was in action for 3,956 minutes.

Shehuâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s other clubs include Kano Pillars, Qadsia and UniĂŁo da Madeira.

The Super Eagle could feature in this seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s UEFA Champions League if Omonia beat Olympiakos in the playoff round this month.

Victor Osimhen made his debut as Napoli defeated Parma 2-0 yesterday

FRENCH LIGUE 1

Moses Simon Saves Nantesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Blushes to Share Points at Saint-Etienne Nigerian forward, Moses Simon scored as Nantes came back from two goals down to share points at Saint-Etienne yesterday in the French Ligue 1.

Saint-Etienne were cruising to their fourth straight win of the new season before the Super Eagles forward pulled back one for Nantes Teenage midfielder Adil

Aouchiche netted from close range in the second minute after latching onto Yvan Neyouâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cross.

Left back Yvann Maçon made it 2-0 for Saint-Ă&#x2030;tienne midway through the second half before Moses Simon responded with that strike to pull back one.

Belgian forward Renaud Emond salvaged a draw with his first touch after coming off the bench.

The 18-year-old Aouchiche made a tough choice leaving French champion Paris Saint-Germain.

He could have been playing alongside Neymar and Kylian MbappĂŠ this season, but intense competition for places would likely have restricted his chances.

Saint-Ă&#x2030;tienne leads Rennes on goal difference with both sides on 10 points.

ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE

Sadio Maneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Brace Seal Maximum Points for Liverpool at Chelsea Liverpool delivered a powerful statement of intent about their desire to retain the Premier League title with a comfortable dismissal of Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on another nightmare day for keeper Kepa Arrizabalaga.

Jurgen Kloppâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s champions were already in complete control even before Chelsea defender Andreas Christensen was correctly shown a red card on the stroke of half-time.

Referee Paul Tierney initially opted for a yellow card but reviewed Christensenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s desperate challenge on Sadio Mane as he

raced on to Jordan Hendersonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pass.

Mane then punished Chelsea with two swift goals after the break to confirm Liverpoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vast superiority, the second of which was the result of another calamity for Kepa.

Mane headed in Roberto Firminoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cross after 50 minutes then chased down Kepa, whose botched clearance gave the forward the simplest of finishes.

Chelseaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s day of misery was complete when Jorginho, normally so reliable from the spot, saw his penalty saved by Alisson after

Liverpoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new ÂŁ20m signing Thiago Alcantara, on as a half-time substitute, brought down Timo Werner.

Liverpool were helped by Christensenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s moment of sheer panic that reduced Chelsea to 10 men right on the break - but they were head and shoulders ahead of a negative home team even before that crucial moment.

The champions dominated from the first whistle and it seemed only a matter of time before they scored, pinning Chelsea back in their own territory and probing for openings at will.

And when the breakthrough came, no-one deserved it more than Mane, now comfortable in world-class and willing to do the dirty work as well as apply the finishing touches.

Earlier in the Sunday other fixtures, Jose Mourinhoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tottenham Hotspur had hammered Southampton 5-2 with Koreaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Son Heung-min scoring four of the goals.

Harry Kane provided all the assists.

Elsewhere, Brighton & Hove Albion won 3-0 to also pick maximum points against an under-strength Newcastle United at the St. Jamesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Park.

Efe Ajagba Labour to Points Victory over â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Journey-manâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Rice

William Troost-Ekongâ&#x20AC;Śon the radar of Watford

Efe Ajagba could not enhance his claims for a future fight with Anthony Joshua as he laboured to points victory over Jonathan Rice in Las Vegas at the weekend.

The Nigerian heavyweight extended his unbeaten record to 14 wins with a wide unanimous decision over Rice, but Ajagba suffered a hand injury which prevented him from producing an expected knockout.

Ajagba previously stopped 11 of his â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;journey-menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; opponents with explosive power, although

on this occasion he opted to control Rice for 10 rounds with his stiff jab, earning verdicts of 99-91, 99-91 and 98-92 from the judges. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The people would support Joshua because he is the heavyweight champ,â&#x20AC;? Ajagba told Sky Sports in his call to do battle with champion Anthony Joshua. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Skill would beat Joshua, not power. Me and Joshua both have the power, but skills control the power. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I have more skills.â&#x20AC;?

Efe Ajagba (left) delivering a left jab to the chin of Jonathsn Rice... last Saturday

55

Ë&#x153; ͺ͚Ë&#x153; ͺ͸ͺ͸ Ëž T H I S D AY

MONDAYSPORTS

Navid Afkariâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Last Bout

T

ihe world received the news with sadness and shock. Despite pleas for clemency from top world leaders like President Donald Trump and IOC President Thomas Bach, Iran executed national wrestling champion Navid Afkari by hanging him in the city of Shiraz.

Afkari, 27, was arrested on September 17, 2018 and was given two death sentences â&#x20AC;&#x201C; one for retribution in kind by a criminal court and another sentence for enmity against God, which was given by a Revolutionary Court. The retribution was for allegedly stabbing to death a security guard of Iranâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Revolutionary Force during the antigovernment protests of 2018 who was working under cover.

While the trial was reported flawed, confessions were forced, false witnesses were created and produced and CCTV footage showing Afkari walk pass the area where the dead security man lay was two hours before the incident itself. There are major lessons for all to learn here and there is also an opportunity the unfortunate death of Afkari presents.

First, while it is obvious that sportsmen know that their voices can be heard, and this is evidence in how they cash out by signing contracts endorsing big brands etc., they should also realize that they can make big news too for repressive regimes around the world who want to use them as a lesson to reign in the populace.

The outcry against Afkari was

audible because of his sporting achievements and despite the global condemnation, the Iranian government would be happy that such news would serve as a deterrent for others trying to protest against the government.

Afkari is not the only one that has been executive via miscarriage of justice, probably many have, but he has brought the spotlight on. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Navid was targeted because of his success and popularity as an athlete, and this brutality was held up as an example to terrorise the public and silence dissent.â&#x20AC;? Brendan Schwab, executive director of the World Players Association said.

Secondly, it is time we all realize that sports and politics do intertwine and we should always be mindful of that.

However, sports and politics rarely meet under good terms.

Someone is always standing on the other side of an issue. As long as one competes under the umbrella of a country and within the territory of one, we cannot isolate politics from sports and decisions herein must recognize that. There are so many examples worldwide that support this.

Furthermore, and here comes the opportunity, this can present itself for authorities to start taking strong actions towards social injustice especially grave repressive government actions like this one. The IOC sent out a statement to condemn Afkariâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s judicial murder saying the news as â&#x20AC;&#x153;very sadâ&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;devastatingâ&#x20AC;? and added that their â&#x20AC;&#x153;thoughts and prayers are with the familyâ&#x20AC;?. United World Wrestling, which had not previously commented publicly

on the case, said Afkariâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s execution was â&#x20AC;&#x153;devastatingâ&#x20AC;?. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The entire wrestling community mourns his death,â&#x20AC;?

UWW added.

However, a lot of commentators feel that these words are insufficient and just political. They believe

wrestler. Our thoughts are also with Navidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s two brothers who are still incarcerated in inhumane conditions. We call on athlete solidarity to demand that the International Olympic Committee and United World Wrestling immediately implement sanctions that expel

Navid Afkari...hanged last week more should be done to stop these type of injustice in future.

Global Athlete (an international athlete-led movement that was formed to inspire and lead positive change in world sport, and collectively address the balance of power between athletes and administrators) has demanded the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and United World Wrestling (UWW) expel Iran following the execution of the wrestling champion. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Global Athlete extends our sincere condolences to Navid Afkariâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s family and friends,â&#x20AC;? their statement said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Iranian Government took the life of an innocent human, an athlete, and a

Iran from world sport for this heinous execution. The actions of the Iranian Government are a clear breach of human rights; such acts cannot go unpunished.

For executing an athlete, this government no longer deserves the privilege of competing in international sport.â&#x20AC;?

On social media, the outrage has been pouring, â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is not enough just being â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;saddenedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;devastatedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. IOC should ban sports teams under the name of this regime,â&#x20AC;? Alireza Kermani stressed.

A twitter user Mahya Saber added, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thank you for your support IOC but the Iranian regime has been enjoying impunity far too long. It is time to hold the regime accountable

for its ongoing crimes against the Iranian people.â&#x20AC;? Another comment added, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Do something.

This is not the first time and it wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be the last unless some meaningful actions takes place from the international community.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;As an Iranian...â&#x20AC;? another twitter user adds, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I ask the world community to BOYCOTT this regime. We need global support to overthrow this barbaric blood thirsty regime occupying our landâ&#x20AC;? Mara says â&#x20AC;?if it is only thoughts and prayers you have, you are totally useless as an organization. Take ACTION now.â&#x20AC;? Shaha Andeh tweets that the statement by the IOC is â&#x20AC;&#x153;lame...and only a PR stuntâ&#x20AC;? while Nima adds, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thanks but your thoughts and prayers are absolutely worthless. Instead the IOC should ban the Islamic Republic from taking part in international sporting events including the Olympics. Actions are more important than empty words.â&#x20AC;?

There have been instances where governments have not shown full responsibility for social acts and athletes have had to take actions on and off the field of play with consequences.

Muhammad Ali was jailed for refusing to fight an unjust war, John Carlos and Tommy Smith were expelled from the Olympic Games in 1968 and roundly criticized for their actions for

protesting the treatment of black Americans and other minorities in the United States, The Taiwanese delegation were almost banned from the 1960 Olympics for protesting against Chinese oppression. Many NBA teams considered Abdul-Rauf too controversial a player to employ because of his belief that the US was an unjust tyranny to Islamic states and therefore in conflict with his Islamic beliefs and recently US president called for the sack of San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick for sitting and later kneeling during the anthem as protest against police brutality and racism. Only that it is rare for the athlete to pay the ultimate price.

So it is an opportunity for Sports to Stand Up and make a statement. For action to be taken. International bodies would have to firmer and more decisive in taking actions to bring about government responsibility. As the Global Athlete body says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;We must now unite in his memory to ensure that others do not suffer this fate.â&#x20AC;?

Only then, would his death not be in vain.

* EneďŹ ok is an author, Speaker, administrator, Life coach, businessman and Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ONLY Male two Time Olympic Medalist

Son Ruthless as Spurs Hammer Southampton 5-2 Son Heung-min scored four goals in a stunning display as Tottenham secured their first Premier League win of the season by coming from behind to thrash Southampton.

The South Korea international combined with Harry Kane for all four of his goals as Spurs took control after Danny Ingsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; fine finish from a tight angle had given Southampton a first-half lead.

Sonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first came on the stroke of half-time when he raced on to Kaneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pass before driving across Alex McCarthy and into the back of the net.

The pair opened up Southampton again as Spurs took the lead soon after the restart, Kane sending Son through one-on-one and the forward making no mistake.

The hosts struggled to deal with Sonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s superbly timed runs behind the defence and he duly got his third, racing on to Kaneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s clipped pass before slotting in.

Kane then provided his fourth assist of the day with a brilliant cross for Son, who coolly chipped McCarthy, before Kane got in on the scoring himself when he stabbed in from close range after Erik Lamelaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s shot had been pushed on to the post.

Ings converted a penalty in stoppage time but it was scant consolation as Southampton slumped to their third consecutive defeat in all competitions.

This was a much-needed win for Tottenham after a difficult start to the season in which they were beaten by Everton on the opening day before

scraping past Bulgarian side Lokomotiv Plovdiv in Europa League qualifying in midweek.

A significant reason for their defeat to the Toffees was their lack of creativity in midfield with Dele Alli paying the price in that game for a disappointing display by being taken off at half-time.

Elsewhere, Neal Maupay scored twice as Brighton cruised to a comfortable Premier League 3-0 victory over an under par Newcastle at St Jamesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Park.

It was a superb all-round showing from the Seagulls and the perfect response to losing their opening game to Chelsea.

French forward Maupay was the early beneficiary as Graham Pottersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; side took control, scoring twice in the

Serie A: Mbappe Shines in PSGâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s First Win of the Season Kylian Mbappe scored on his comeback to the team as Paris St-Germain beat Nice in Ligue 1.

Mbappe had missed their opening three games - two defeats and one win - after testing positive for coronavirus.

The France forward opened the scoring on his first appearance of the season from the penalty spot after he was fouled by Kephren Thuram.

Angel di Maria doubled the lead from a rebound after Mbappe had a shot saved and Marquinhos headed in their third.

Mbappe thought he had a second goal with 15 minutes to go but it was disallowed for offside.

PSG were without Neymar,

Layvin Kurzawa and Leandro Paredes, who were all suspended after their red cards in the melee against Marseille.

Patrick Vieiraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Nice are on six points from four games, the same total as champions PSG.

Mbappe celebrating his goal with a teammate...yesterday

opening seven minutes, with his first goal coming via a penalty after the impressive Tariq Lamptey was tripped

by Allan Saint-Maximin.

His second, which was checked by the video assistant referee for offside, was a close-range finish

to the bottom left corner at the end of a move down the right involving Lamptey and Leandro Trossard.

Son Heung-min (left) celebrating with Harry Kane who provided all the assists for the four goals he scored against Southamptonâ&#x20AC;Śyesterday

Nadal Accepts Defeat in Good Fate, Djokovic in Final Rafael Nadal refused to make excuses for his shock defeat

by Diego Schwartzman in the quarterfinals of the Italian Open, insisting that his focus is now on fine-tuning his game ahead of the French Open which begins September 27.

The nine-time Rome champion looked well off the pace in his 6-2 7-5 loss to the 15th-ranked Argentine, an opponent he had defeated nine straight times heading into Saturdayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s encounter in the Italian capital. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We can find excuses, but I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t play well enough. Then we have to think internally, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Why? How I can fix it?â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;? the 34-year-old

Spaniard told reporters. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Now is not the moment to find excuses.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just to accept that I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t play well enough.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was not my night. He played a great match, I think, and I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t. These things can happen. After such a long time without competing, I played two good matches, and now I played a bad one against a good opponent. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s how it is. I just want to congratulate Diego and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m going to keep working.â&#x20AC;?

Nadal, who skipped the US Open in New York due to Covid-19 concerns, said he would regroup before heading

to Paris, where he will bid for a record-extending 13th title. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a completely special and unpredictable year. I probably will go back home and then letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s see whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going on,â&#x20AC;? the 19-time Grand Slam champion said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I did my job here. I did a couple things well and other things bad. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m going to keep working and keep practicing with the right attitude and try to give myself a chance to be ready.â&#x20AC;?

Meanwhile, world number one Novak Djokovic booked his place in the final of the Italian Open with victory over Casper Ruud.

TR

Monday September 21, 2020

UT H

& RE A SO

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Price: N250

MISSILE Atiku to Nigerians “There is a new wind of democratic change now blowing all over Nigeria. The forces of despotism, nepotism and interlopers cannot successfully withstand this force. Nigeria shall soon be totally free from these forces, from Kaura Namoda, to Lagos. The only power that will stand in Nigeria is people power, not the power of godfathers, or despots” – Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, encouraging Nigerians to stand up against godfatherism.

ALEXOTTI OUTSIDE THE BOX

alex.otti@thisdaylive.com

It Hardly Rains, It Pours “In the US, after the Great Depression, they invested heavily in infrastructure to create a lot of employment. In Germany, after the war, there was the Marshall plan for roads, rail, housing, energy, water and so on. That created massive employment after the devastation of the war and helped them to rebuild the country.”

-Raila Odinga

N

igeria is at the centre of a perfect storm! From every indication, almost everything that can go wrong is creeping out of the woodwork. In the area of insecurity, the usual threat of Boko Haram has been exacerbated by the herdsmen and bandit attacks. On the economic front, the picture is as depressing, if not frightening. The challenges are numerous; the most recent being the “Twin Towers” of hikes in the prices of petrol and electricity. Since 2016, the economy has been struggling. First was the recession, which followed a few a set of economic challenges ranging from oil price crash, foreign exchange crisis and then inflation and unemployment. We managed through 2017 and in 2018, we exited the recession. The level of economic growth post-recession remained lacklustre but we had positive numbers to report.

Our growth rate between 2018 and 2019 averaged 2% per annum which by the way actually meant a decline since population growth had averaged

Minister of Finance, Zainab Ahmed 3% within the same period. As if this was not enough, 2020 started with a Pandemic, called Coronavirus. Its devastating effect was only felt in Nigeria in March this year. This was followed by a complete lockdown of the country, just like many other countries. At the last count, close to 1 million people have died and over 30m have been infected worldwide. In Nigeria,

over 56,000 cases have been reported with over 1000 deaths. The lockdown has been eased and the fear seems to have receded with people adhering to the protocols and going about their normal businesses.

Some things seem not to have eased up in the country, particularly as they affect the economy, and most of these things seem to be happening at the same time. Recently, the National Bureau of Statistics came out with a report that the economy shrunk by 6.1% as at the end of June 2020. We are not sure anyone would have been surprised about the decline, we had predicted in this column that we were not only going to witness a decline in the second quarter of this year, but that it was going to be followed by another decline by the end of the third quarter in September and by October, we were going to declare the economy, technically in recession. Nigeria’s encounter with another recession has just begun, except that this time around, the whole world, with the possible exclusion of China, would be affected. The IMF expects the global economy to decline by an unprecedented 49%. Unfortunately, it is no comfort that virtually every national economy is shrinking the same time. This is because beside the Covid-19 which has worsened our situation, we have been fighting many other battles at different fronts. Our economy is still largely dependent on oil for its export earnings. There was a major scare at some point during the

Covid-19 lockdown when oil prices sank to sub-zero levels. Recovery has been taking place but at a very slow place. The implication is a big drop on our revenue and another blow on our foreign exchange earnings. Naturally, with a drop in the volume of foreign currency, our foreign reserves began to nosedive. Our penchant for foreign goods may have reduced, but momentarily, because some of the foreign goods we consume are not easily replaceable with local alternatives. Once the lockdown eased, our demand for foreign exchange to finance imports and lifestyle increased. This naturally put pressure on the foreign exchange market and the result was that the Naira had to be depreciated at the official market from N360 to N380 to the dollar.

In a bid to preserve the foreign reserve and conserve the scarce foreign exchange, a rationing policy had to be introduced by the CBN. The market responded disproportionately, and the black market slid rapidly to settle at N480 per dollar, reflecting a difference of N100 per dollar between the unofficial and the official market rates. An attempt by the CBN to force rates down by resuming sales of foreign exchange to Bureaux de Change, temporarily proved successful as rates dropped rapidly to N420 per dollar, few days after the exercise. However, this was short lived as the rates have started inching up again to the levels they were before Continued on page 50

BONIFACEOYE-ANENIRAN GUEST COLUMNIST

UNILAG Visitation Panel: An Inappropriate Panel

O

n the 12th of April 2020, the Council of the University of Lagos took a very bold step. It removed the Vice-Chancellor of the University for several reasons. Some of the allegations made against the Vice-Chancellor were that, he spent a phenomenal amount of money without budgetary allocation or approval. He spent approximately N120million renovating his official residence and those of his cronies. In the case of the Bursar, the amount of money spent on the renovation of his house could build the house from scratch. Even in the very few cases where he sought approval(that is in about 10% of the reported cases), he exceeded the approval limit. He engaged in contract splitting. These are major crimes under the Procurement Act. The Vice-Chancellor was caught red-handed altering marks during an interview session.

He altered the marks to favour a certain Mr. Oloyede to become the Director of Works of the University. Interestingly, the same Mr. Oloyede had been recommended not suitable for a senior position in the university’s Works Directorate because of the corrupt practices in the Directorate that he was an integral part of. The Vice-Chancellor sought to corruptly install someone implicated in corrupt practices as the Director of Works of the university. The Vice-Chancellor collected and shared security

votes in the university without any form of approval. This money was being paid to the Dean of Student Affairs without any record ostensibly to keep the peace in the university. It is important to further investigate whether this money was shared with the leadership of the main academic union (i.e. Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU)).It was also discovered that all the Internally Generating Units (IGUs) had no accounts and moneys generated from these businesses were being siphoned by the Vice-Chancellor and the University Management for purposes that were not found in the books of the university. During the hearing by the panel, the new Director of Works of the university gave evidence that the Vice-Chancellor withdrew and spent money from the university’s resources unjustifiably. He paid money for jobs not done and simply frittered away the money. As Director of Works, when he refused to sign these unlawful expenditure, the Vice-Chancellor by passed him and got officers under the Director of Works to sign the documents; a situation that is illegal under the laws of the university. To cap up the Vice-Chancellor’s total disrespect for the University system, he attempted to appoint by fiat, a Professor of Library Studies against all norms of the university. The university has no student, lecturer or Department of Library Studies to warrant such appointment which

he sought to achieve without following due process. The Vice-Chancellor was going to break the world record of academic irresponsibility by creating a professorship for his friend, Dr. (Mrs) Olukemi Fadehan.

After the Visitation Panel was inaugurated, it commenced work by interacting with the various persons who had submitted memoranda and those that it wanted to obtain information from. The hearing was in private without stakeholders, the university community or the press. This is clearly wrong and provides the environment for concealing information.

The panel discouraged persons who submitted Memoranda supporting Council’s decision from appearing before it and it was extremely hostile to those who managed to appear before it and testify to the Vice-Chancellor’s corrupt practices.

By contrast, the panel allowed persons who did not send memoranda to appear in support of the Vice Chancellor. Some members of the panel were so unhappy with the evidence before them as it was very detailed and revealing against the Vice Chancellor. These members harassed the witnesses who stood their ground on the issues raised. For example, a Council member, Dr Saminu Dagari, who chaired the panel that discovered abnormal expenditure was so harassed by the panel, that he left the room, stating that this was the worst example of a Kangaroo

Panel. They wanted him to deny the contents of his report. He stood his ground but cried uncontrollably for Nigeria. The panel actually queried a Treasury staff and was more interested in how he got all the vouchers that indicted the Vice-Chancellor. His reply was that he applied for the records officially. The Director of Works gave a lot of evidence on how Prof. Ogundipe made fictitious approvals and made fraudulent payments on non-certified work. He explained that the Ogundipe unlawfully bypassed him to perpetrate these onerous crimes. But the panel was not interested in these revelations.

One of the members of the panel in trying to exonerate the Vice-Chancellor sought to justify Ogundipe’s N49million spending by claiming that it was spent over a period of time for the same purpose and therefore was not unlawful as long as he did not exceed his spending limit at any given time. This was to say the least a very silly defence. Spreading payments of a project in bits and pieces to enable it stay within an approval limit is contract splitting and an offence under the Procurement Act. Section 20(e)of the Procurement Act provides that the Accounting Officer (in this case the Vice-Chancellor) of a procuring entity shall be responsible for “ensuring that no reduction of Continued on page 50

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