SATURDAY 14TH OCTOBER 2023 by THISDAY Newspapers Ltd

President Appoints New Heads for NIPC, CAC, ITF, SMEDAN, 10 Other Ministry of Industry’s Agencies Onanuga named Special Adviser, Information & Strategy Kashim Imam’s son heads FERMA's Board Our Correspondents President Bola Tinubu has approved

the immediate appointment of new Chief Executive Officers for 14 agencies and parastatals under

the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, in line with his resolve to base Nigeria's economic

revival on the foundation of trade expansion through small, medium and large-scale industry facilitation

in the country. On the same day, the president approved the appointment of an

11-man Governing Board and Continued on page 5

Tinubu Grants Wike's Request to Remove FCT from TSA...

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Saturday 14 October, 2023 Vol 28. No 10412

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NUPRC Concludes Consultation on New Regulations, Targets 4m Barrels Oil Output...

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Shell Conﬁrms Huge Leak at Flow Station in Bayelsa Hundreds in Peremabiri community thrown into crisis, farmlands, marine environment ruined Bennett Oghifo The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria yesterday confirmed the October 3 oil spill

from its flow station in Peremabiri community, Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State. Several farmlands, including those with economic trees, as well as

the marine environment, had been gravely impacted by the oil leak, which the community members believe was caused by equipment failure.

A spokesperson for the SPDC, Michael Adande, said a Joint investigative visit (JIV) to the incident site to unravel the cause and volume of oil discharged into Peremabiri’s

land and marine environment was underway. The JIV is a statutory probe comprising representatives of the operator, host community and

regulatory agencies that generate a report to show the cause, extent of pollution after every spill is reported. Continued on page 5

IMF Welcomes CBN's Removal of FX Restrictions on 43 Items Says Tinubu's reforms need time to yield desired results I feel your yearnings, World Bank President tells Nigerian entrepreneurs

Obinna Chima, Eromosele Abiodun and Nume Ekeghe in Marrakech The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has commended the Central Bank of Nigeria's decision to remove restrictions on 43 items previously restricted from accessing foreign exchange at the official window. The IMF also acknowledged that the newly appointed officials under President Bola Tinubu have initiated a series of reforms aimed at delivering favourable outcomes for Nigerians. It however, noted that the reforms may require time to achieve the desired results. Also, in a speech he presented at the ongoing World Bank and the IMF meetings, the World Bank President, Ajay Banga, praised the ingenuity of Nigerian entrepreneurs, saying that he feels their yearnings to contribute to Continued on page 5

TALKING GLOBAL BUSINESS IN MARRAKECH… L-R: Aliko Dangote, President/CEO Dangote Industries; Aziz Akhannouch, Prime Minister of Morocco and Dr. Mo Ibrahim, Founder and Chair of Mo Ibrahim Foundation at a side consultation during the ongoing annual meetings of the World Bank Group and the IMF in Marrakech, Morocco...yesterday.

Mohbad: Coroner Summons Naira Marley, PrimeBoy, Sam Larry...

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SATURDAY OCTOBER 14, 2023 • T H I S D AY

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2023 • T H I S D AY, T H E S AT U R D AY N E W S PA P E R

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Mohbad: Coroner Summons Naira Marley, PrimeBoy, Sam Larry A Lagos coroner court sitting in Ikorodu yesterday summoned music stars, Abdulazeez Fashola, a.k.a. Naira Marley, Owodunni Eletu a.k.a. Sam Larry, and Owodunni Ibrahim a.k.a Primeboy over the death of Ilerioluwa Aloba a.k.a. Mohbad. The Coroner Magistrate, Adedayo Shotobi, said the three listed people must appear before the court on October 25 to shed light on the incident and identify any individuals responsible for the tragic event that led to the death of Mohbad. The coroner instructed the State Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department, Panti, to ensure the presence of the music stars at the next adjourned date of October 25. The Coroner’s Court has the duty of investigating the causes and circumstances surrounding certain deaths that are considered to be unnatural, Violent, or cases where the cause remains unknown. The Lagos State Police Command had last week Friday revealed that there was a physical altercation between Mohbad and his childhood friend, PrimeBoy, in Ikorodu, which

led to Mohbad’s death due to injuries he suffered during the fight. The Lagos Police Commissioner, Idowu Owohunwa, who disclosed this during a press conference also announced the names of those apprehended in connection with

the singer’s sudden death. According to Owohunwa, PrimeBoy, who is among the suspects, attended Mohbad’s show in Ikorodu on September 10, 2023, accompanied by the singer. “At the end of the show,

Mohbad and Ibrahim (Primeboy) were engaged in a violent fight during which Mohbad was injured. The management of the injury subsequently resulted in his death, he is being treated as a suspect,” he said.

His former label boss, Naira Marley, and his associate, Sam Larry have been fingered by the police for being accomplices. The police commissioner said, “While Abdulazeez Fashola (Naira Marley) and Samson Balogun (Sam

COURTESY CALL… L-R: Bangladesh High Commissioner to Nigeria, His Excellency Masdur Rahman; Special Adviser to the President on Policy Coordination, Hadiza Bala Usman; and the Permanent Secretary, Political and Economic Aﬀairs, Oﬃce of the SGF, Nko-Asanye Esuabana, during the High Commissioner's visit to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume…Thursday.

Larry) denied allegations of criminal liability in the death of Mohbad and pleaded an alibi to justify their non-being complicit in the incident that occurred from 10 to 12 September 2023, there are ample electronic and credible witness pieces of evidence linking them to cyberbullying, a threat to life, assault occasioning harm, and conduct likely to cause a breach of the peace against the deceased in his lifetime.” He also named an auxiliary nurse Ms Feyisayo Ogedengbe as the prime suspect in Mohbad’s death. According to him, Ogedengbe who was invited by Mohbad’s friend, Ayobami Sodiq aka Spending, to inject the singer at his residence, administered three injections believed to have led to the chain of reactions that eventually led to the singer’s demise. According to him, Ogedengbe administered “multiple and highly potent” injections on Mohbad that led to him vomiting and developing goosebumps. He said Ogedengbe was unqualified to perform the role of a home nurse and did so in a non-clinical environment.

IMF WELCOMES CBN'S REMOVAL OF FX RESTRICTIONS ON 43 ITEMS the growth of society. The Director of the African Department, IMF, Abebe Aemro Selassie, yesterday unveiled IMF’s approval of Nigeria’s decision to remove forex restrictions on the 43 items, during a media briefing on the Regional Economic Outlook for Sub-Saharan Africa in Marrakech, Morocco, at the ongoing IMF/World Bank Annual meetings. Selassie, also harped on the need to enhance tax reforms so as to improve revenue generation, create more fiscal space and reduce its burden of servicing and acquiring debts. On the trade restrictions, he said, “The view of the IMF is that Nigeria and many other economies are so sophisticated and complex, that I don’t think that these kinds of restrictions work. "The best way to manage a modern economy is to have fiscal policy lever and monetary policy lever to use to affect the kind of policy outcome you want, rather than saying I don’t like these goods and so I don’t want it to come in, etc, that tends to create an unhelpful distortion. "Of course, there are tax policies you can also use if you really want to be against certain types of imports. In general, I think the direction the CBN has moved is a helpful one." Furthermore, responding to a THISDAY question, Selassie said Nigeria’s debt was sustainable, just as he said the country was not in talks with the IMF on debt restructuring. Selassie said: “I am not aware of any debt discussions that are going on, debt profiling or debt restructuring in Nigeria. In Nigeria, the most important cause of the pressures is the fact that the government does not generate enough tax revenue for all the services it needs to provide. "Interest payment as a share of revenue is very high and does not leave much room to spend on other issues, that is the key issue that needs to be worked on. “While there is not enough tax revenue, I think in the past reliance on oil when prices were high and secondly the subsidy regime which also implies and entails lots of government resources being directed where they should not be. "These are all interlinked issues including causing some of the inflation that you have and the difficulty to tap into the international capital market. That is why the government has had to rely more on domestic financing which of course has crowded out the private sector and put constraints on monetary injections which has weakened the exchange rate." He noted that Nigeria has "incredible potential and we have seen reforms moving in the right direction in recent months.

He said: "What is needed, we feel, is making the reforms holistic and help reinforce each other (monetary and fiscal policy). "Just as things were not reinforcing each other in the past, there is scope to make the reforms reinforce each other. So, the exchange rate reforms that the government did were very welcome in trying to unify the rates. "Similarly, the fuel subsidy will not help or stick unless they tighten monetary policy and also you are doing something to mobilise more tax revenue. “So, a holistic package of reforms is what is needed and we have to give a bit of time to the new administration also. "The CBN governor has just been appointed, and the minister of finance has only been appointed a few weeks. So, we are hopeful that they will move in the right direction and we stand to provide every policy advice that the government needs.” On Nigeria’s debt level, he added that it was manageable. He said: “So the assessment of debts should not be based on the nominal value of a debt stock but on how it relates to many other economic variables." Regarding monetary policy coordination, he added that it was important to emphasise that addressing the exchange rate gap required more than just necessary adjustments and corrections. He stressed that it must be complemented by the implementation of stricter monetary policy conditions. The CBN had on Thursday, declared that importers of 43 items previously restricted from accessing foreign exchange (FX) at the official window were now allowed to purchase FX in the Nigerian foreign exchange market going forward. The apex bank in June 2015, had initially included 41 items to the list of commodities which were not-valid to purchase FX from the market, citing the need to conserve the scarce forex and encourage domestic production for self-sufficiency and exports. The list was thereafter expanded to 43 items. Some of the items listed then as not-fit-for forex included rice, cement, margarine, palm kernel products and vegetable oil, meat and processed meat products, vegetables and processed vegetable products, poultry chicken, private airplanes, tinned fish in sauce, roofing sheets wheelbarrows, head pans, among others.

Ajay Banga to Nigerian Entrepreneurs: I Feel Your Yearnings

The World Bank President, Ajay Banga, yesterday, in a speech he presented at the ongoing meetings of the

bank and the IMF in Morocco praised the ingenuity of Nigerian entrepreneurs, saying that he feels their yearnings to contribute to the growth of society. He also spoke about challenges the world was facing and the contribution of developed countries, emerging markets and low-income nations. He explained: “Looking across the world it is easy to be consumed by a sense of despair. Yet – in all corners of the globe, people are eager to go to work, and to create with their own hands. They want a better life for their children and grandchildren. “I have felt that yearning among entrepreneurs in Nigeria, seen it in the proud eyes of artists in Indonesia, and touched it on the worn hands of farmers in Jamaica.” He noted that the bank “has an obligation – a duty – to match their energy with a fierce determination”,

adding, “we must be the hand on the back – moving people forward. We must be an institution that exports optimism and impact. "But we must change to make good on that promise and deliver on what is being demanded. The World Bank is turning to face the wind. "That evolution began months ago, and today there is a new vision and mission for the World Bank. To create a world free of poverty – on a liveable planet." Banga also pointed out that Nigerians were among millions of people doing their best to be part of the solution. He said the multilateral institutions were faced with "declining progress in our fight against poverty, an existential climate crisis, food insecurity, fragility, a fledgling pandemic recovery, and are feeling the effects of conflicts beyond

the front." He added: "Economic growth in much of the developing world is retreating. Falling from six percent to five percent in two decades, and on track for just four percent over the next seven years. "With each lost percent, 100 million people are pulled into poverty and another 50 million people are pushed into extreme poverty. "Dig deeper and you’ll find people struggling to provide for themselves and their families as incomes have stagnated. In Sub-Saharan Africa per capita income is the same as it was 14 years ago. "Meanwhile, debt has increased throughout emerging markets – doubling in Africa – shackling countries to the ground just as they’re trying to rise. "We are living in a world with

alarming challenges but at a time of intensifying polarisation and extremes. "Beneath the surface, a growing mistrust is pulling the Global North and South apart, complicating the prospect of progress. "The Global South’s frustration is understandable. In many ways they are paying the price for the prosperity of others. "When they should be ascendant, they’re concerned that promised resources will never manifest, they feel energy rules aren’t applied universally, and they’re worried a burgeoning generation will be locked into a prison of poverty." According to the World Bank chief, "we must find a way to finance a different world where our climate is protected, pandemics are manageable – if not preventable – food is abundant, and fragility and poverty are defeated."

PRESIDENT APPOINTS NEW HEADS FOR NIPC, CAC, ITF, SMEDAN, 10 OTHER MINISTRY OF INDUSTRY’S AGENCIES Management team for the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), with Imam, the son of businessman/ politician, Kashim Imam as Chairman. Highly experienced journalist and Editor, Bayo Onanuga, was also announced as the Special Adviser, Information and Strategy, to the President, while Ms. Delu Bulus Yakubu was named Senior Special Assistant to the President on Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation. According to a statement issued yesterday by presidential spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale, the new helmsmen of the 14 agencies are: Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), Hussaini Ishaq Magaji; Industrial Training Fund (ITF), Afiz Ogun Oluwatoyin; National Sugar Development Council (NSDC), Kamar Bakrin; Nigeria Export Processing Zone Authority (NEPZA), Olufemi Ogunyemi; Nigeria Export Promotion Council (NEPC), Nonye Ayeni; Nigeria Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC), Aisha Rimi and Oil & Gas Free Zone Authority

Tafawa Balewa Square Management Board (TBSMB), Lucia Shittu and National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), Oluwemimo Joseph Osanipin. The statement added: “In view of the Renewed Hope Agenda of his administration, President Bola Tinubu expects all new appointees in this critical sector to optimally deliver in accordance with new key performance indicating benchmarks as established by the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment.” Imam

(OGFZA), Bamanga Usman Jada. Others are Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Charles Odii; Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke; Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRCN), Rabiu Olowo; Nigeria Commodities Exchange (NCE), Anthony Atuche; Lagos International Trade Fair Complex (LITFCMB), Veronica Safiya Ndanusa;

Imam Heads FERMA Board

Meanwhile, President Tinubu has approved the appointment of an 11-man Governing Board and Management team of the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) for a renewable term of four years, in accordance with Section 2(3) of the FERMA Amendment Act, 2007. The President, in a statement yesterday, listed Imam, the son of Kashim Imam, as the new Chairman

of FERMA’s Board. Imam is a First-class mechanical engineering graduate from the university of Sussex. Members of the Board are the Managing Director of FERMA, Chukwuemeka Agbasi; Yusuf Lawal Othman representing NARTO; Ibi Terna Manasseh representing FMW; ACM Shehu Mohammed representing FRSC; Babatunde Daramola-Oniru, representing the Ministry of Finance and Preye Oseke representing South-south. Others are member (South-west), Oye Ojobe; member (South-east), Dr. Kenneth Ugbala; member (North-central), Senator Timothy Adudu; member (North-east), Abubakar Bappa and member (North-west), Aminu Adamu Papa. “President Tinubu expects the new appointees to achieve integrous and competent service delivery, given the central role that the institution will play in the sustainable health of growthenabling infrastructure nationwide,” said the statement.

SHELL CONFIRMS HUGE LEAK AT FLOW STATION IN BAYELSA “A government-led Joint Investigation Team is currently on a Joint Investigation Visit to the site of the incident to determine the cause and the impact of the incident,” Adande told the News Agency of Nigeria, (NAN). Eleven days back, the leak from the Diebu Creek Flow station, operated by the SPDC in Peremabiri, discharged a yet-to-be ascertained volume of crude oil to adjourning areas of the community and the Nun River.

The Programme Manager, Environmental Right Action/Friends of the Earth Nigeria, Alagoa Morris, in a reaction said the oil leak had polluted the ecosystem. He said the resultant pollution from the oil spill had adversely affected the predominantly farming and fishing settlements along the banks of River Nun. Morris, who is also the Technical Adviser to the Bayelsa Governor on Environment, commended the peaceful disposition of the victims

in the community. He urged the regulatory agencies to ensure that the SPDC immediately carries out the required clean-up process to save indigenes of Peremabiri from economic and health challenges. An impacted farmer, Mrs. Yenimi Timipre, also bemoaned having her fishing gear stained by crude and rendered useless. Also, the Deputy Woman Leader of Peremabiri, Mrs Favour Morgan, lamented that the spill had destroyed

their fishing nets, traps, crops and polluted the whole aquatic environment, and demanded for succour. “This oil spill has thrown the Peremabiri people into despair. We are into farming and fishing as our means of livelihood and the toxic oil from Shell’s oil field has damaged our livelihood sources. “We are helpless and in dire need of intervention by way of relief and succour to farmers and fishermen,” Morgan said.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ OCTOBER 14, 2023

NEWS

News Editor Charles Ajunwa 09157401421 (sms only) Email charles.ajunwa@thisdaylive.com

NUPRC Concludes Consultation on New Regulations, Targets 4m Barrels Oil Output Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) yesterday concluded consultation with stakeholders on the first session of Phase 4 regulations in line with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA). The first segment of the consultation, the NUPRC explained, was meant to provide clarity in upstream commercial operations, as well as foster a more conducive business environment for petroleum operations in the country. Some of the operators at the event which took place in Abuja, included the Oil Producers Trade Section (OPTS), the Independent Petroleum Producers Association, Chief Executive Officers of International Oil Companies (IOCs) as well as indigenous operators. Speaking on the last day of the session, the Chief Executive of the NUPRC, Mr. Gbenga Komolafe, noted that the aim of the meeting was to have a groundswell of support for the proposed regulations, enrich the document, the process and ultimately the outcome. Represented by the Executive Commissioner, Economic Regulation and Strategic Planning, Dr. Kelechi Ofoegbu, the NUPRC boss noted that the commission would not arrogate to itself the totality of knowledge in the industry. According to Komolafe, the perspectives of operators remain critical to ensuring that the proposed regulations stand the test of time, stressing that the next set of activities would ensure an outstanding document to be presented before the federal government for vetting and gazetting. “We will look at the feedback

from the engagements, and we will now finalise the draft regulations. And it will go through the normal process of regulations making, which will include sending the finalised drafts which incorporate what we have agreed and send it to the Ministry of Justice. “They will check whatever that is contained and compare for regularity against other laws or other regulations to ensure that there is no conflict either with existing law or the constitution. “And then we’ll send it to the federal government for gazetting, at which point it will be a regulation properly so called and will be rolled out to the industry,” he stated. Essentially, Komolafe pointed out that the regulations would ensure more transparency, improve cost efficiency as well as commercial efficiency in the sector, reduce the cost of production and make profit a priority. In addition, he explained that this will have a knock-on effect in attracting investments in the upstream petroleum sector, which remains one of the mandates of the commission. “We have already constituted a committee that is focused on that entirely...They’re going to look at it holistically and come out with measures that would reverse that trend. So there are measures to tackle crude theft, attracting further investments. “The overarching mandate for us as an industry this year currently is to produce more. Earlier, we were doing 1.3 million barrels per day. The aim is to exit this year with at least 2 million barrels and in the short to mid-term to do 4 million barrels.

Senate Promises Legislations on Energy Transition Financing Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ecology and Climate Change, Senator Seriake Dickson, has expressed the readiness of the National Assembly to support any new legislation or amendment of existing laws to help in the nation’s energy transition financing bid Dickson gave the assurance in Abuja during a goodwill message at the Africa Climate Forum 2023, with the theme ‘Powering the Future: Financing Energy Transition for Sustainable Progress’. The lawmaker who commended the organisers of the event, Global Centre for Law, Business and Economy, called for synergy among governmental institutions and other stakeholders towards making the country transition to renewable energy. He expressed the readiness of the National Assembly to amend existing laws, where necessary, or enact any new legislation designed to ensure energy transition. Dickson stated that in order to ensure a sustainable and equitable energy future, the urgency of the topic and importance of the event cannot be overemphasised.

He stated that dependence on fossil fuels had not only contributed to global warming, but also resulted in air pollution, geo-political and local conflicts and social inequities. Noting that it was the collective responsibility of all to work towards a sustainable energy transition, Dickson argued that financing would however continue to play a central role. He said, “Let’s begin to acknowledge that transitioning to sustainable energy is not an easy task. We have been told that Africa has 40 per cent of the world’s renewable energy sources yet, available financing so far indicates that we have only attracted only two per cent financing. “So, the task is not easy financing the transition. It requires massive investment in clean energy sources, investment in innovative technologies and a shift generally in our energy consumption patterns. With great challenges also come great opportunities. “The transition to clean energy is not just mitigating the effects of climate change. Renewable energy sources have become increasingly competitive. Financing this transition presents a win-win scenario.”

appropriately,” he maintained. In his comments, the representative of the OPTS, Nathaniel Oyatogun, noted that it was critical for the oil producers’ group to attend since they constitute the majority of operators in the country. “Our members, 28 of them,

produce more than 90 per cent of the oil and gas in the country. So we are a very interested party in the discussions and so far, so good. Since they started on Monday, their discussions and deliberations have been going on well. It’s a process that we find very useful to co-create

a solution that will move the industry forward. “So basically, our interest is that there will be continuous investment in the sector to grow the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the nation, and that will attract more foreign direct investment.

“That can only happen in an atmosphere where the regulations are fair enough to operationalise what the law has said in the PIA. Now, these suites of regulations will then enable the administration and the clarity needed,” he added.

TAKING STOCK… L-R: Chief Executive Officer, Caverton Offshore Support Group, Mr. Olabode Makanjuola presenting Caverton AW 139 Simulator Model to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, during Keyamo’s tour of Caverton Aviation Training Centre at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja…yesterday.

Everyone will Be Victim If Nigeria is in Crisis, Says Akume Sunday Aborisade in Abuja Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, Senator George Akume, has warned that no Nigerian would be spared if there is a crisis in the country. He said everyone has to embrace peace in order to enjoy the prosperity that the policies of President Bola Tinubu would soon yield for the people. Akume gave the advice when members of the Forum of Former Deputy Governors paid a courtesy visit to his office in Abuja, concerning their National Summit scheduled for October 21.

He assured the forum, led by its Chairman, who was a former deputy governor of Abia State, Dr. Chris Akomas, that the Tinubu-led federal government, was committed to the actualisation of a better Nigeria. He stressed that Nigeria could only be better if everyone embraces peace and unity irrespective of the political party they subscribe to. The SGF noted that the forum has come a long way and would continue to play a significant role in the unity and development of the country.

He said, “We must be united always, like it is popularly said our strength lies in our diversity. And it is very true,” he added. “This forum has come to existence and it will continue to remain relevant due to the calibre of people you have and your quality of leadership,” the SGF further noted. Akume pledged the government’s readiness to partner with the Forum’s upcoming event to make it a huge success. He said, “We will partner with you, on October 21. I will be able to stay with you and listen to what you have and together we will be able to come out with

ideas that would be useful to move Nigeria forward. “If there is prosperity we will all benefit and if there crisis all of us will be victims. “I want this forum to play a significant role in the unity and stability of our dear country,” he added. The Chairman of the Forum, Akomas, said his group was targeted at enhancing cordial relationships between stakeholders for the stability of all states in the federation. Akomas said the National Summit would enable stakeholders to interact with all serving deputy governors.

Suspend, Probe NASENI Boss over Alleged Abuse of Power, Insists HURIWA Chuks Okocha in Abuja The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has called on President Bola Tinubu to suspend and investigate the newly appointed Chief Executive Officer of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, over allegations of using armed policemen to harass and intimidate two Abuja-based businesswomen. In a statement issued yesterday by the National Coordinator of

HURIWA, by Emmanuel Onwubiko, said it was appalled by the reports of unlawful invasion, destruction of property, and intimidation by Halilu and his men at Mambaah Café Creative Hub, Maitama, Abuja, owned by Mrs. Zainab Akwanga and Mrs. Vivian Adzume Habila. According to HURIWA, the two women had petitioned the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, accusing Halilu of resorting to brute force and intimidation to settle a contractual dispute with them. The petition,

dated 29 September, 2023, and signed by their counsel M. O. Abdulmalik of Chesslaw Consult law firm, Abuja, detailed how Halilu and his men violently invaded the cafe on 21 September, 2023, at about 7a.m., causing extensive damage and financial losses. The petition also alleged that Halilu had planted incriminating items around the cafe and invited security agencies to arrest some members of staff of the cafe. The petitioners urged the IG to order a comprehensive inquiry into the

matter and ensure the safety and protection of their clients, their businesses, and staff from further harm or intimidation. HURIWA said it was shocked that Halilu, who was appointed as NASENI boss on 3 September, 2023, after President Tinubu fired Bashir Gwandu, could abuse his power and position to oppress and violate the rights of innocent citizens. The group said such actions were unacceptable and incompatible with the principles of democracy and rule of law.

Ex-agitators Seek Tinubu, Akpabio’s Intervention over Poor Budgetary Allocation for N’ Delta Ministry Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja A coalition of Niger Delta civil society organisations, comprising ex-agitators in the Niger Delta, has expressed deep concern over what they described as insufficient budgetary allocations for the Ministry of Niger Delta Development and solicited the intervention of President Bola Tinubu and Senate President Godswill Akpabio to reverse

the trend. They contended that the allocation of only N10 billion to a ministry responsible for overseeing nine states was grossly inadequate. The coalition made the appeal in Abuja during a courtesy visit to the Minister of Niger Delta Development, Hon. Abubakar Momoh, in his office. A statement issued by the

media aide to the minister, John Mayaki, quoted the group’s spokesperson, Comrade Opuma Joseph as saying: “We are well aware of the inadequate budget allocation for the Ministry of Niger Delta Development and the mismanagement of resources. “We intend to approach Mr. President and the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, to make a case for an increase in the budget allocation.

“With only N10 billion allocated in the budget for a ministry responsible for nine states, this amount is insufficient to address the needs of the region. We are determined to seek the intervention of the President and the Senate President in this matter because this ministry was established to address environmental challenges, youth empowerment and engagement, and to bridge the gap of underdevelopment in the region..

SATURDAY OCTOBER 14, 2023 • T H I S D AY

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ OCTOBER 14, 2023

NEWS

Tinubu Grants Wike’s Request to Remove FCTA from TSA Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja President Bola Tinubu has approved the removal of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) from the Treasury Savings

Account (TSA) to enable the FCT to carry out developmental projects and provide infrastructure. FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, disclosed this yesterday at a press conference in Abuja.

Lagos Shuts Mile 12, Owode Onirin Markets to Address Environmental Challenges The Lagos State Government has said it shut the Mile 12 International and Owode Onirin markets as a necessary step to address the prevailing environmental challenges and to ensure the safety and well-being of all stakeholders. According to a statement that was issued yesterday by the Director of Public Affairs, Ministry of Environment and Water Resources, Kunle Adeshina, both markets were sealed in a joint operation carried out by enforcement officers from the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) and Lagos Environmental Sanitation Corps, as directed by the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab. The commissioner said, “Recent events at Mile 12 and Owode Onirin markets have brought to light the pressing need for strict adherence to sanitation standards in our markets. The closure, though a difficult decision, is a necessary step to address the prevailing environmental challenges and to ensure the safety and well-being of all stakeholders.

“The closure of Mile 12 and Owode Onirin markets will enable the stakeholders to assess the situation and improve public health and environmental sanity around those axes. Conditions in the markets have deteriorated to a point where immediate intervention became inevitable.” The closure of these markets, he said, was not an isolated event, stating that it was imperative to have stringent sanitation measures in Lagos markets, and that cleanliness and adherence to environmental regulations were essential for a healthy city. “Part of a broader strategy to instill a culture of cleanliness and compliance with environmental regulations across the board for markets within the state,” he said. The Managing Director/ CEO of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, stated that “the closure was necessary, to protect the health of the public and to ensure it was properly cleaned up and sanitised. “The markets were closed for very severe unhygienic conditions and a litany of environmental infractions.”

Medical Outreach: Kebbi Governor’s Wife Partners Near Foundation, Ufuk Dialogue Sunday, October 8, 2023 would forever linger in the minds and hearts of indigenes of Tarasa community in Birnin Kebbi Local Government Area of Kebbi State. The ecstatic indigenes of the community warmly welcomed the wife of the Governor, Hajiya Nasare Idris, when she teamed up with Near Foundation and Ufok Dialogue to organise a medical outreach in the community as well as commission a borehole for them. According to Hajiya Idris, she is committed to supporting the government of Governor Idris and ensuring that the dividends of democracy get to the nooks and crannies of the state. She said, “I can assure you that the government is committed to making lives better for every

indigene of the state and already, we have started touching lives in the state in different areas. “It is not a surprise therefore that we have willing collaborators like Near Foundation and Ufok Dialogue who have chosen to be partners in progress. While we appreciate them profusely, we encourage other collaborators to join hands with the government in Kebbi State and support our forward-looking Governor Idris who is committed to making lives better for everyone in Kebbi State.” The events were graced by notable personalities including the representative of Near Foundation, Mamman Abdulmalik Bulakos, representative of Ufok Dialogue, Emrah IIgen as well as the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development,

SARA Partners Assembly Hub for ‘The Creative Class’ SARA by Wema, in an exciting collaboration with Assembly Hub, has launched ‘The Creative Class’, a groundbreaking business accelerator programme that promises to upskill and empower budding entrepreneurs in Africa’s vibrant fashion industry. AccordingtoastatementfromWema Bank, “this intensive 4-week accelerator programmeisdesignedtoprovidecrucial business support, mentorship, and peer learningopportunitiesforbothemerging and established entrepreneurs, aged 21 to 35.” The Executive Director, Retail and Digital Wema Bank, Tunde Mabawonku, emphasised

the bank’s dedication to women’s entrepreneurship, stating, “At Wema Bank, we understand that women’s entrepreneurship is the lifeline for economic growth. This commitment is evident through initiatives like SARA, aligned with our mission to empower young entrepreneurs.” ‘The Creative Class’ is set to transform the fashion landscape by nurturing fresh talent and scaling up innovative ideas. The programme boasts an array of comprehensive masterclasses taught by industry experts, hands-on business modeling workshops, and intensive pitch readiness training.

He said the President also ratified the creation of the FCT Civil Service Commission and the establishment of FCT Women Affairs Secretariat to be headed by a Mandate Secretary. Wike said he convinced President Tinubu to sanction the removal of the FCTA from TSA because FCTA was not a revenue generating agency of the federal government. “The Central Bank cannot give us loans, and even the IGR are spent as they come, which you cannot tangibly do anything with it.

“I said to Mr. President if you want FCTA to really carry out its developmental projects and infrastructure, then, it must come out of TSA. We are not a revenue generating agency of the federal government. What financial leakages are you blocking? The revenue comes in, and it will go to the CBN and we need money to do projects, I can’t go to the CBN to give us money, and can’t go to the commercial banks. They will ask ‘how do you pay back?’ So, I said we must pull out, that’s the only way we can survive it.

You will see that from next year it will be projects upon projects in FCT, and what you saw in Port Harcourt, Abuja would be something else. So for us, it is one of the happiest days, and we have to thank Mr. President for foresight,” Wike said. He also said the establishment of FCT Civil Service Commission would enhance career progression of the civil servants, who usually peaked as Directors with no real opportunity of attaining the position of permanent secretary.

Wike stressed that one of the reasons why he accepted to work with the President was because he (Tinubu) has the capacity and political will to do those things that people are afraid of doing. “The problem of this country is partly leadership because so many people don’t want to take action as they believe that some people will be angry. There is no action you take that everybody will be happy. But what is important is that you are guided by law and your conscience,” he added.

PROVIDING INFRASTRUCTURE. . . L-R: Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Mr. Gerald Otiji; Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah; Secretary to State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, and Speaker of the Enugu State House of Assembly, Hon. Uchenna Ugwu, during the flag-off of the construction of Owo-Ubahu-Amankanu-Neke-Ikem dual carriageway… Thursday.

Abiodun Inaugurates Commissioners, Advisers Charges on Hard Work James Sowole in Abeokuta Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, yesterday, inaugurated the State Executive Council with the swearing-in of 20 commissioners and 24 Special Advisers. The inaugurated Executive Council, comprises some that have served the Abiodun’s administration during his first term while others were newly appointed for the second term. The event, which took place at Obas Complex, Oke Mosan, was attended by serving and former political leaders in various capacities in the state, elected politi-

cal office holders, permanent secretaries, facilities and associates of the Commissioners and Special Advisers. Addressing the gathering, Abiodun who said that the immediate past Executive Council, had placed the state at a level that excellence and good governance cannot be compromised. The governor said, “I have no doubt in my mind that you have been chosen by God as worthy collaborators in this journey of our second term in the office; so, you must see your appointment as a clarion call to continue rendering selfless service, and to continually displaying high level of cohesiveness and

indivisibility with the new team and be dedicated. “You must be conscious of the fact that our people expect so much from us and we cannot afford to disappoint them in any way, as we must always have it at the back of your mind that your appointments are opportunities to prove your mettle as we jointly forge ahead in this new journey of hope. “You must be ready to work harder than before in order to collectively bring accelerated development to our great state. “Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, as you take up this mantle of leadership, you must be reminded that your duties must be carried out in consonance

with the best practices. “You must be professional in your dealings, most especially in the area of proper administration and financial prudence. You must be conscious and meticulous in your dealings and avoid any shady activities that will bring reproach to your name and that of the administration. “In addition to that, you must not see your elevation as a weapon to be used against rivals, either perceived or real. The leadership status that your new position confers upon you makes it imperative that you must rise above pettiness and become unifying agents in your respective constituencies.

Baptist Convention Restates Commitment to Impacting on People, Nation James Sowole in Abeokuta The Nigerian Baptist Convention, yesterday, restated commitment to continue to impact on people, society and the Nigerian nation. The promise was made at a news conference to signal the beginning of the 120th Year Anniversary Celebration of the Owu Baptist Church, Totoro, Abeokuta, Ogun State. Addressing journalists during the news conference attended by leadership and management of the church, where other activities of the celebration were unveiled, the Chairman of the celebration,

Chief Nathaniel Oyedele, said the church had a cause to celebrate in view of its impact on the people, society and the Nigerian nation. Oyedele was flanked at the conference by the shepherd in charge of the church, Reverend Josiah Adesope and Chairman of Board of Deaconate, Dr. Kayode Omoyinmi among other leaders, management and members of the church. The 120th anniversary chairman, said the church had embarked on several spiritual, social and physical development activities and had achieved a lot after the church celebrated its centenary

anniversary 20 years ago. He said the Owu Baptist Church had planted many churches, built multipurpose buildings, established schools and engaged in various humanitarian services. Highlighting some of the activities lined up for the anniversary, Oyedele said the church would go on humanitarian visits to orphanage homes, leper colony Iberekodo, health centres where food items, furniture and other things would be donated. Other activities lined up for the activities include novelty football match, Day of Praises, launch of the music album of the church choristers, American Outreach and

a public lecture to be delivered by Professor Omololu Soyombo while former President Olusegun Obasanjo, would be the chief host. Oyedele disclosed that the 120th activities would be rounded off at the grand finale, which would have the President of the Nigerian Baptist Convention, Reverend Israel Akanbi, in attendance. The chairman of the anniversary, while highlighting some of the humanitarian activities of the church, disclosed that the church had been distributing food items and donating money to some members of the church in form of palliatives, to cushion effects of the removal of fuel subsidy.

SATURDAY OCTOBER 14, 2023 • T H I S D AY

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 14, 2023

NEWS

Glo-sponsored Ofala Begins with Youth Carnival

PROTECTING THE GIRL CHILD… L-R: Legal Oﬃcer, Nasrul-Lahi-l-Fatih Society (Nasfat), Aisha Oyebisi Muhammad; Nasfat Coordinator for the End Violence Against Children, Women and Girls Initiative, Ganiyat Babalola; the British Deputy High Commissioner, HE Jonny Baxter; Nasfat Chief Missioner, Imam Abdul-Azeez Onike and Nasfat National Project Secretary, Kamar Adewuyi, when a NASFAT delegation visited the High Commissioner at his residence in Lagos…Thursday.

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SATURDAY OCTOBER 14, 2023 • T H I S D AY

OCTOBER 14, 2023 • THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

INSIGHT

One accident too many...

Nigeria’s Quest for Liver Transplant

aboratory tests conducted on patients in many teaching hospitals in the country indicate a widespread prevalence of Hepatitis B virus, a major cause of liver diseases.

In an article co-authored by Nigerian healthcare workers in the Journal of Biosciences and Medicine, Vol 9 No. 7, 2021, the liver was described as “the main internal organ. It has more functions than any other organ, and it can support life even though only 10% - 20% of the liver tissue is functioning.” The authors added, “the significant role of the liver includes purification, synthesis of proteins and cholesterol; inactivation of hormones and the regulation of the amount of testosterone in the blood; and storage of sugars, fats and vitamins.” Sadly, the liver can suffer inflammation, which they said has many causes, “such as toxin, biochemical, pharmacology, bacterial or immune-mediated attack.” Other reports say more than 1.5 billion people in the world suffer from various types of chronic liver diseases and two million of them die annually. One report says, “In Nigeria, 2-20% of the population or 35 million people, are infected with hepatitis B and C virus with a prevalence rate of 4.3%-23.3% and 0.5-15% reported from different parts of the country.” The report was specific thus, “A prevalence rate of 4.3% was reported from Port Harcourt, 5.7% from Ilorin, 11.6% from Maiduguri, and 8.3% from Zaria, 6.78% from Ado-Ekiti among pregnant women; 13.50% from Lagos, 11.50% from Abuja Urban among HIV patients with a seroprevalence of 23.3% been reported among patients attending all clinics in Kano.” Experts linked this widespread prevalence to low vaccination rate and ineffective national policy on the treatment and prevention of chronic liver diseases. The World Health Organization (WHO) in 2018 said deaths caused by liver diseases in Nigeria reached 60,044 or 3.10% of the total deaths recorded. To tackle the widespread prevalence of liver diseases in Nigeria, government-owned Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital is readying to start liver transplantation. The Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the hospital, Professor Abdurrahman Abba Sheshe has announced during the First Liver Surgery Symposium on Advancing Liver Surgeries in Nigeria organised by the AKTH Department of Surgery in 2020 that, preparations were underway to start liver transplantation in the hospital. The CMD lamented the high manifestation of liver diseases in Nigeria. “Proactive actions should be applied to reduce the mortality, which is 100 per cent,” he said. In a proactive action the hospital has trained consultant surgeons and other specialists in a liver surgery team and procured many of the required technical equipment for the procedure.

However, more special equipment will be required in the long term. The government and philanthropists should provide the additional equipment to the hospital. Happily, there is a pending promise by the Chairman, Isyaka Rabi’u and Sons (IRS), Rabiu Isyaka Rabiu. He promised to mobilse members of his famil and other donours to establish a National Digestive Disease and Liver Transplant Center at the hospital to treat liver and other gastroenterology disorders. It is not late for Nigeria and West Africa to have such a Centre or engage in liver transplantation. This is because the first human liver transplantation was done only in 1963 by Thomas Earl Starzl, an American physician, researcher, and expert on organ transplants. A consultant surgeons who was trained in liver transplantation abroad, Dr. Garzali Ibrahim Umar, said liver transplantation can become necessary for patients with liver cancers, liver cirrhosis and acute liver failure. Certainly starting liver transplantation at the hospital could bring succor to patients of chronic liver diseases and reduce the high mortality rate among them. Given the obvious national need to tackle liver diseases in Nigeria, AKTH deserves every support to achieve its ambition of bringing the super specialty liver transplantation procedure to the doorsteps of Nigerians. Salisu Na’inna Dambatta, Abuja

NSCDC Oﬃcers and ‘Stealing’ of Manhood

he Advocacy for Alleged Witches urges the Nigerian government to ȱ ȱ ȱ Ĝ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱǻ Ǽȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ȱ hood of two other persons in Abuja. In a tweet, the Leadership news ȱ ȱ Ĵ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ǯȱ ȱ Ǳȱȃ ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱǻ Ǽȱ Ĝ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ȱ of two other men at the national headquarters of the security organization in ȱ ȱ Ȅǯȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǰȱ Ĝ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ £ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȁ ȱ Ȃǻ Ǽǯȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǯȱ ȱ Ȃ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǰȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǯȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ Ĝ ȱ ȱ ǰȱ ȱ ȱ Ǳȱȃ ȱ ȱ¢ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ǵȄȱ The AfAW contact wondered why the NSCDC officers behaved this way, and mistreated the man. The NSCDC officer responded: “HMM you know this is Africa where it is difficult to get people, even so-called educated and well-trained people to think and approach issues scientifically. Most Africans cannot separate themselves from their superstitious beliefs, traditions, and all such stuff”. But this should not be a justification for this horrific abuse. This should rather be a reason to ensure that these erring officers are penalized to teach others a lesson. All Africans are not superstitious in their beliefs and behaviors. There are ‘Africans’ who think critically and scientifically. And those Africans should rally against allegations of penis disappearance and other superstitionbased abuses. To this end, the Advocacy for Alleged Witches calls on the government to arrest and prosecute all NSCDC officers who assaulted this innocent man in the video. The government should ensure that these officers answer for their crimes. It was painful and heartbreaking to watch as officers hit, T H E SAT U R DAY N E W S PA P E R EDITOR YEMI ADEBOWALE kicked, and maltreated a man they were DEPUTY EDITOR AHAMEFULA OGBU trained and paid to protect and defend. The MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO NSCDC officers acted unprofessionally, and DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU against the law. They did not make efforts to CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN confirm the allegations. The officers did not THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE verify or try to ascertain if the manhood was stolen as claimed. Nigerian authorities should ensure that this incident never repeats itself anywhere. There is no evidence that people’s T H I S DAY N E W S PA P E R S L I M I T E D private organs or breasts are stolen, or can EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA magically disappeared or be disappeared as GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, popularly believed. These claims are baseless ISRAEL IWEGBU, EMMANUEL EFENI and superstitious. The police have warned the DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE public against making these false allegations DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH and engaging in mob actions. The NSCDC ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI and other state agencies should address this CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI institutional failure. DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO TO SEND EMAIL: ﬁrst name.surname@thisdaylive.com

Leo Igwe directs the Advocacy for Alleged Witches

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 14, 2023

NEWS

We ‘re Grateful to Peter Obi for Revolutionalising Education, Says Bishop Okoye

GOOD TO SEE YOU… L-R: MD/CEO Sunnik Exploration and Production Limited, Engineer Sunny Amadi; Chairman Senate Committee on Federal Character and intergovernmental Agencies, Senator Allwell Onyesoh and Chairman, Senate Committee on Communications, Senator Ikra Aliyu Bilbis, at a wedding ceremony at EUI Events Centre, Port Harcourt, Rivers State... recently

Gaza Bombardment ‘Just the Beginning’, Says Netanyahu Bennett Oghifo Prime Minister of Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu has said that the bombardment of Gaza in the past 24 hours was “just the beginning” of their retaliatory attack following Hamas’ invasion of Israeli territory that left 1,300 people dead and over 150 hostages taken into Gaza. “Our enemies have only just started paying the price. I cannot reveal what will happen, but I am telling you this is just the beginning,” Netanyahu said on television yesterday, stating that Hamas would be “destroyed.”

He said, “We will never forgive, we will never let the world forget these horrors inflicted on the Jewish people. We will fight our enemies using power without limit.” The Israeli Defence Force (IDF) had told Palestanians to relocate within 24 hours to the Southern part of Gaza to avoid being caught in the crossfire, but the World Health Organisation (WHO) yesterday appealed to Israel not to enforce that order because it would cause a huge humanitarian problem. The plea by WHO is contained in a statement it issued yesterday, saying that the vulnerable large

population put at over a million people would have no safe place to go and that the sick among them could die in the process. According to WHO, “Almost half of the population of Gaza is under 18 years of age. With dwindling supplies of safe food, clean water, health services, and without adequate shelter, children and adults, including the elderly, will all be at heightened risk of disease. “The Palestinian Ministry of Health has informed WHO that it is impossible to evacuate vulnerable hospital patients without

endangering their lives. Vulnerable patients include those who are critically injured or dependent on life support. Moving them amid hostilities puts their lives at immediate risk. “The two Ministry of Health hospitals in the North of Gaza that continue to be operational, have greatly exceeded their combined 760-bed capacity with severe overcrowding. Of the thousands of patients with injuries and other conditions receiving care in hospitals, there are hundreds that are severely wounded and over 100 who require critical care.

Kalu: Sit-at-home in S’East Affected Investor Demand Pushes Subscription for FG’s Movement of Goods between North, South N150bn Sovereign Sukuk to over N652bn Juliet Akoje in Abuja

its President, Dr. Abdulrashid <HULPD LQ KLV R΀FH \HVWHUGD\ The Deputy Speaker of the in Abuja, that the South-east House of Representatives, Hon. loses an estimated N10 bilBenjamin Okezie Kalu, has lion to N13 billion in the said that the observance of transportation sector alone sit-at-home in the South-east on every sit-at-home day. RQ 0RQGD\V DͿHFWHG WKH Kalu said that insecurity in movement of goods between WKH UHJLRQ DOVR DͿHFWHG WKH the Northern and the Southern small and medium enterprises parts of Nigeria. which he recognised as a major In a statement signed by the contributor to the nation’s Chief Press Secretary to the Gross Domestic Product Deputy Speaker, Mr. Levinus (GDP). Nwabughiogu, Kalu disclosed He however assured the during a courtesy call on him commitment of the House by the Nigerian Association to review the laws that are of Small And Medium En- inhibiting the operations of terprises (NASMEs) led by the SMEs in the country.

Ndubuis i Francis in Abuja

Strong investor appetite, propelled by growing conÀGHQFH LQ WKH VXFFHVV RI WKH federal government’s Islamic debt instrument has pushed subscriptions for the N150 billion 2023 Series VI Sovereign Sukuk, ZKLFK ZDV RQ RͿHU EHWZHHQ March 3 and October 11 to N652.827 billion. The N652.827 billion subscription level represents 435 per cent of the amount (N150 billion) RͿHUHG E\ WKH 'HEW 0DQDJHPHQW 2΀FH '02 RQ EHKDOI RI WKH Federal Government of Nigeria. The debt management agency

FRQÀUPHG WKH RXWFRPH RI WKH 2023 Ijarah Sukuk, a 10 yeartenored sovereign instrument which has been designed to narrow the gap in road LQIUDVWUXFWXUH ÀQDQFLQJ Sukuk is an ethical, noninterest, asset-backed instrument, based on the principles of Islamic ÀQDQFH DQG ZDV LQWURGXFHG LQ the road infrastructure funding mix in Nigeria in 2017. In a statement yesterday, the DMO said: “The N150 billion 6RYHUHLJQ 6XNXN ZKRVH 2ͿHU IRU Subscription closed on October 11, 2023, was well received with a total subscription of N652.827 billion.

Don’t Introduce Religion into Your Sack By Dangote Sugar Refinery Moves to Improve Governorship Tribunal, PDP Tells Gov Sule Production to 1.5m Metric Tonnes Chuks Okocha in Abuja

The former chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Board of Trustees and Chairman of the party’s Governorship Campaign Council in Nasarawa State, Senator Walid Jubrin, has asked Governor Abdullahi Sule not to blame his sack by the governorship election tribunal on religion. According to Senator

Jubrin, Governor Sule should not blame his sack by the governorship tribunal on the two judges because they are Christians. Addressing a press conference in Abuja yesterday, Jubrin told the governor that he lost WKH HOHFWLRQ LQ WKH ÀUVW SODFH due to poor performance in R΀FH EXW WKH ,QGHSHQGHQW National Electoral Commission (INEC) allegedly manipulated the election in his favour.

Daji Sani in Yola

in Numan Local Government Area of Adamawa State. According to him, the 7KH &KLHI ([HFXWLYH 2΀FHU RI WKH 'DQJRWH 6XJDU 5HÀQHU\ expansion drive has achieved (DSR) Numan, Mr. Sylvain VLJQLÀFDQW PLOHDJH DGGLQJ WKDW Judex, said the company has the Dangote Group acquired commenced an audacious the company situated on a drive to attain 1.5 million 32,000 hectares in Numan metric tonnes of sugar yearly in 2002 in a moribund stage following the company’s recent but since the acquisition, the aggressive expansion drive. fortunes of the company has Judex revealed this yesterday changed through the years as to journalists who were on a a result of steady expansion facility tour to the company drive.

The Catholic Bishop of Nnewi Diocese, Most Rev. Jonas Benson Okoye, has commended the Presidential candidate of the Labour Party and former Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi, for revolutionising the education sector in the state. Bishop Okoye praised Obi for his decision to return schools to the churches considering its pivotal step in the educational transformation of Anambra. He noted that this legacy maintained by subsequent governors has reinstated the state as a leader in educational progress within the nation. The Bishop stated this during the 69th birthday celebration of Chief J. J. Ezeokafor, a prominent business leader and the founder of Jezco Industries, in Ekwulobia, Anambra State.

He emphasised that the church as a moral guide within society serves as the collective conscience of the people, adding that the church is better positioned to shape the values and character of individuals in society through its mission schools. According to him, in 1970 following the conclusion of the Nigerian civil war the former East Central State Government assumed control of mission schools previously managed by the church. He noted that this change KDV FRQWULEXWHG WR D VLJQLÀFDQW decline in moral values, evident in the widespread increase in criminal activities and a lack of moral integrity, particularly among the youth, over the years.

Adefarasin Inspires at ‘Spirit Life’ Conference Nigerians have been urged to stand strong in faith amid trials and challenges of life. This was the resolve of clerics who gathered for the 2023 ‘Spirit Life’ conference hosted by Metropolitan Senior Pastor of House on The Rock Church, Paul Adefarasin. The four-day conference themed: ‘Unshaken’ afforded attendees a platform for rejuvenation and empowerment tapping from renowned ministers, including Bishop T.D. Jakes, Pastor Sarah Jakes-Roberts, and Dr. Mensa Otabil. In his inaugural sermon, Senior Pastor of The Potter’s House, Bishop Jakes, encouraged attendees to stand resolute in their faith despite the tempests of life. He said, “The turbulence encountered when aligning oneself with a word that inherently testifies to struggle, atrocity, trials, and tribulations exemplifies a stance of resilience

Build Our Marriage on Love, MFM Pastor Tasks Couples Ugo Aliogo Pastor Christiana Sanya of the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries has urged couples who are aspiring to have lasting marriages, to build it on a foundation of love, respect, trust, and communication. Sanya, Marriage Committee, MFM International Headquarters, gave the advice at the maiden edition of the MFM Couples Dinner with the theme: ‘My Spouse, An Evening with Jesus’, organised by the church for spouses in Lagos. Speaking on the topic, ‘Sex in Marriage and More’, highlighted the significance of using sex as a way to express feelings. She encouraged couples not to underestimate the power of sexual intimacy in fostering happiness, strengthening the bond of love, and increasing their spiritual connection. “Couples who have sexual need should not allow anything to hinder it or stand in the way because God expects couples to have pleasure in sex.

and defiance. The very word is Unshaken.” Similarly, co-pastor at The Potter’s House, Pastor Sarah Jakes-Roberts captivated the audience with impactful delivery, eliciting deep resonance amongst attendees. Adefarasin while thanking the guests and resource persons who graced the occasion, expressed optimism about attendees shaping economies and communities as a result of their exposure in the conference. “It’s not just a conference; it’s a catalyst for enduring transformation,” he enthused. Attendees were also treated to a an electrifying musical performance from renowned gospel artistes, including Moses Bliss, Nathaniel Bassey, Onos, and Dunsin Oyekan

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ OCTOBER 14, 2023

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Yemi

Adebowale

yemi.adebowale@thisdaylive.com

Israel Vs Hamas: The Truth That Must Be Told

was deeply shocked hearing so many people justifying the killing of hundreds of innocent Israelis by Hamas militias last Saturday. I was further shocked to hear many others justifying the retaliatory bombardments of Gaza, which largely affected innocent civilians. Yes, Israel has a right to kill the militias who killed innocent Israelis. That right should be limited to brutally repelling Hamas militias. This, they have almost completed. For me, after the Israeli military cleared majority of the Hamas invaders within its territory, killing over 1500 militias, I felt they should have pursued the remnants by foot into Gaza to complete the clearance. I’m talking about ground assault that will precisely nail the Hamas militias. This would have reduced collateral damage usually caused by aerial bombings. The ongoing air bombardment of Gaza is absolutely unnecessary. Israeli forces continue pounding Gaza for days, killing hundreds of Palestinians. Human lives, largely innocent people, are being wasted by the bombardments. Unfortunately, the positions of many on the crisis are largely coloured by religion. Some even see it as war between Christians and Muslims. No! This is a shameless war for territory. There are more Christians in Palestine than in Israel. Infact, Muslims constitute around 28 percent of Israel with under two percent of Christians. Now, to the truth that must be told about this conflict. When armed Hamas militias in their hundreds invaded Southern Israel (not part of disputed territory) from land, sea and air, killing and maiming innocent civilians, they said the assault was a response to what it described as Israeli attacks on women, the desecration of the al-Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem and the siege of Gaza by Israel. it was also a continuation of their campaign for the return of “occupied territories.” In the operation called “Al-Aqsa Storm” Hamas militias went from house to house killing innocent people. This was after they had killed no fewer than 260 Israeli youths at an open-air “Tribe of Nova” music festival on a vast field in Southern Israel near the Gaza border. Hamas militias were seen plunging

Biden

into the panicked crowd, mowing down fleeing revelers with bursts of automatic fire. Many victims were shot in the back as they ran. While rockets rained down, some Hamas militias waited near bomb shelters, gunning down people who were seeking refuge. Israeli communities on either side of the festival grounds also came under attack, with Hamas gunmen abducting dozens of men, women and children - including elderly and disabled people. The assault on Southern Israel is a smokescreen designed by Hamas to disguise their real intention. Hamas needed to stop Saudi Arabia, Arab’s richest country, from normalising ties with Israel as part of a deal ensuring security guarantees from the United States along with assistance in developing a civilian nuclear programme in Saudi Arabia. This is coming less than three years after Israel signed agreements establishing diplomatic rel a t i o n s w i t h f o u r A r a b L e a g u e countries - Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Sudan and Morocco. They were the latest Arab

nations, after Egypt (1979) and J o rd a n (1994), to establish diplomatic relations with Israel. Then, suddenly Saudi Arabia is set to establish formal diplomatic relations with Israel. For Hamas, this must not happen. The way to stop it is to attack Israel. Of course, Israel will retaliate and the anger/sentiments that will follow in the Arab world will most likely prevent Saudi Arabia from going ahead with the deal. This is the real reason behind the Hamas deadly attacks in Southern Israel on October 7. So, we can all see that this extremist group called Hamas is the biggest hindrance to peace between Palestine and Israel. Hamas is the biggest hindrance to peace in the Middle-east. How did Hamas become so powerful? It simply exploited one of the concessions for peace made by Israel. In 2005, Israel withdrew from the entire Gaza Strip to the 1967 Green Line. Jewish settlements in Gaza were also evacuated and residents resettled inside Israel. Gaza was then handed over to the State of Palestine. In June 2007, Hamas pushed aside authorities of the State of Palestine (dominated by late Yaser Arafat’s Fatah group) and took over the Gaza Strip from the Palestinian Authority. The current president of the State of Palestine and the Palestinian National Authority, Mahmoud Abbas, is interested in peace with Israel. For this peace to happen, Hamas must be disarmed and the control of Gaza returned to Palestinian National Authority. This is where Arab leaders must act with all sincerity. They must disarm Hamas militias and tell Iran to keep off this area. Iran is a bad influence on Hamas. It was appalling hearing the current Supreme Leader of Iran, Ali Khamenei, commending Hamas after the attacks in Israel. He is as guilty as those commending the reckless bombardment of Gaza by Israel. The Palestinian National Authority should be negotiating for Palestine and not Hamas. Israel is clearly interested in peace, but extremist groups like Hamas are against this. Recall that on September 13, 1993, the then Israeli Prime Minister, Yitzhak Rabin and the then Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) Negotiator, Mahmoud

Injustice against Abdulrasheed Bawa Must End

he former Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Abdulrasheed Bawa, is 123 days old today in the dungeon of the notorious Department of State Security Service. He is being held without trial, which is a violation of his Constitutional rights. The falsehood is that Bawa is being probed for alleged financial impropriety under his watch. For over four months now, they could not file any charge against him. Bawa has not been charged with any criminal offence. Of course, they can’t sustain any case of corruption against him. Bawa’s crime is daring to investigate powerful corrupt politicians who are now running the show in this federal government. It is obvious that the instruction to the DSS is that Bawa should be thoroughly humiliated for stepping on these powerful toes. The DSS has no legal grounds to continue detaining Bawa. The lie at the initial stage was that he was being detained on the basis of a remand order issued by a Magistrate Court in Abuja. Now, the remand order has become illegitimate as no magistrate

has the power under Section 493 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015 or Section 35 of the Constitution of Nigeria to approve the detention of a criminal suspect for 123 days without trial. Human rights lawyer, Femi Falana rightly pointed out: “under the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, the cumulative lifespan of a remand order is 56 days. Therefore, having exceeded the detention period permitted by the Act and the Constitution of Nigeria, the SSS should be directed to release Bawa from illegal custody without any further delay.” Bawa’s rights must be respected. The Rule of Law must be respected. Specifically, Equality Before the Law, Supremacy of the Law and Civil Liberty must be respected. A democratic government is under a legal compulsion not to breach the fundamental rights of citizens except in a manner prescribed by the Constitution. In the case of this detained former EFCC boss, his Constitutional rights have been badly infringed upon by this federal government. Bawa must be released from DSS’s custody immediately.

Bawa

Abbas signed the Declaration of Principles on Interim Self-Government Arrangements for Palestine, commonly referred to as the “Oslo Accord,” in the United States. This shows Israel believes in the State of Palestine. I also remember that at the Oslo II Accord, signed in Taba, Egypt, in 1995, Yitzhak Rabin offered to give up 91% of the West Bank and the entire Gaza Strip if 69 Jewish settlements in the West Bank are ceded to Israel. Palestinian extremists prevented this plan from being actualised. It is these same extremists opposed to peace that prevented the United Nations’ plan for Mandate Palestine from being actualised in 1947. In 1917, the British pushed out soldiers of the Ottoman Empire controlling the swath of land that is today Palestine and Israel. This resulted in just one country called British Palestine with Arabs, Jews and Christians living with some glitches in different communities. When the mandate was about to end on November 29, 1947, the UN General Assembly adopted Resolution 181 recommending the partition of Palestine into Jewish and Arab states (along with an international zone encompassing Jerusalem and Bethlehem to be administered by the United Nations). Palestinian extremists would have none of this. They were opposed to the emergence of anything called the State of Israel and war broke out, drawing in Arab countries. Israel declared itself an independent state following Resolution 181. Protesting this move, five Arab countries - Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria - attacked Israel. That was the 1948 Arab-Israeli War. Egypt captured Gaza while Jordan captured West Bank and East Jerusalem during the War. The territories remained under Egyptian and Jordanian control until the 1967 Arab-Israeli War, when Israel seized the territories and occupied them, along with East Jerusalem. They also captured the Sinai Peninsula from Egypt and the Golan Heights from Syria. Gaza was returned to the State of Palestinian in 2005 by Israel. The demand for the return of “occupied territories” is responsible for this unending bloodshed. Leaders of the Arab world and the United States can make peace happen between Israel and Palestine if they think more about humanity and put aside extremism. Now, my own suggestions for peace: Syria, Jordan, Lebanon and Egypt must disarm Hamas and allow Palestinian authorities to take charge of everything about control of Palestine and negotiations for land. Then, the United States should compel Israel to transfer the entire West Bank and Gaza to the State of Palestine, with a guarantee of peace by the Arab leaders. Jewish settlements in these territories should be evacuated and residents transferred into Israel. For the Palestinians, they must relinquish their claims to East Jerusalem and allow Israel to have this territory fully. For me, this is the way forward. My heart bleeds for the innocent civilians in Southern Israel and Gaza slaughtered like animals. The IsraeliPalestinian crisis persists because there is so much hatred in our world; so much extremism by so many in this world. Gaza/Southern Israel is now one big hell. But in that hell, I still feel that somehow, we can choose to act out of love. Arab leaders and the United States must act out of love to end the Israeli-Palestine bloodbath. Human lives are sacred. Killing innocent beings is not justifiable.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 14, 2023

Ferdinand Ekechukwu - 08035011394 Email: ferdi_adthisday@yahoo.com

SHOWBIZFLAIR

Merry Men 3 Premieres with Action, Adventure Ferdinand Ekechukwu

he third sequel to Ayo Makun’s much anticipated movie, Merry Men 3: Nemesis, is packed with action and adventure. Much so is its engaging dialogue and comic strips as snippets of the title reveals. The new sequel which premiered in cinemas nationwide yesterday comes after a four-year wait since the last one in 2019. Merry Men 3: Nemesis has since the announcement of the theatrical debut and release date triggered anticipation among fans of the comedian/actor and Nollywood buﬀs. The ﬁrst installment of the successful franchise Merry Men: The Real Yoruba Demons explored the lives of four of Abuja’s most eligible and notorious bachelors, their thriving

businesses, fast cars, homes, and women. With a mix of love, family and friendships, the ‘Merry Men’ struggle to keep it all together. This is much of what the second sequel Merry Men 2: Another Mission (2019) also followed and much more of it in the latest sequel, Merry Men 3: Nemesis which continues the original story. “Make sure you are buckled up for another hilarious and action packed adventure!” AY promises prior to the premiere. Described as the ultimate crime thriller, Merry Men 3 features an ensemble of sterling cast including Sam Dede, Francis Onwochei, Ufoma McDermott, Nadia Buari, and Caroline Hutchings with Chidi Mokeme in the lead. The blockbuster movie sees the return of AY Makun, Ramsey Nouah and Williams Uchemba. Merry Men 3 is directed by Moses Inwang and produced by Darlington Abuda.

Merry Men 3 - AY, Williams Uchemba, Moses Inwang, Sam Dede, and Ramsey Nouah

Tunde Aina’s ‘The Rise of Igbinogun’ Debuts on Netﬂix

Aina

unde Aina’s movie, “The Rise of Igbinogun,” has become an instant hit on Netﬂix, ranking top of Nollywood’s most-watched movies in Nigeria since its release last

weekend. This comes shortly after the success of his other epic movie, “Underbelly,” which topped Amazon Prime’s viewership rankings in Nigeria for several days and remained in the top 10 for over one month. “The Rise of Igbinogun” is an epic thriller that tells the story of a young warrior

who fights against injustice in her land while battling her own demons. The film is a mix of valour, revenge, anger, art, musical folklore, and a rich feel of ancient African culture. As Igbinogun steals from the rich and helps the poor, she must watch out for the king and his guards as well as her own father. Ultimately, this is a story of a young woman embracing her destiny. Written and directed by Ideh Chukwuma Innocent, the film is a creative and adrenaline-filled ride complete with drama, romance, and action. It features a talented cast, including Enyinna Nwigwe, Blossom Chukwujekwu, Ego Nwosu, Tina

Mba, Shaﬀy Bello, Akin Lewis, Damilare Kuku, and delectable Nollywood actress, Bella Salami. Igbinogun was produced by Tunde Aina and Innocent Chukwuma Ideh. Aina says he is “overwhelmed” by the positive response that the ﬁlm has received: “I am humbled by the love and appreciation that people have shown for this movie,” he says. “I am glad that people have enjoyed watching it and learned something from it. I hope this movie will motivate more Nigerians to embrace their identity and culture and follow their passion.”

‘Screen Perfect’ Takes Viewers Emem Isong’s African Cultural Film Festival Down Memory Lane

creen Perfect, the new reality show that showcases the talents of aspiring actors and actresses, took the viewers on a trip down memory lane in its second episode. The contestants were tasked to reenact scenes from some of the classic Nollywood PRYLHV WKDW GHÀQHG WKH JROGHQ HUD RI Nigerian cinema. The reality show airs every Sunday at 8pm on ST Nollywood Plus and ST Novela E on StarTimes. The episode featured Gloria Anozie, a veteran Nollywood actress who has starred in scores of movies, as the celebrity guest. She shared her insights and tips on acting with the contestants. In the previous week, Segun Arinze appeared as the celebrity guest. .HQQ\ DQG &DUGLQDO ZHUH WKH ÀUVW contestants to perform, and they reenacted the movie Emotional Pain, produced by Chico Ejiro in 2003. They played the roles of Richard Mofe Damijo (Greg) and Stella Damasus, portraying a husband (Greg) sleeping with his wife’s sister in his matrimony home. The movie was a hit when it was released, during a period when video cassettes were the main means of watching movies at home. In Ebere Okaro’s Hostages produced by Tade Ogidan in 1992, contestants, Dr keyz and Dammy reenacted this scene, DGGLQJ WRGD\·V ÁDYRXU WR LW Momo and Michelo reenacted a scene from 100 Days in the Jungle, a classic Nollywood movie that starred veteran Emeka Ike and Tony Umez. The movie, produced by Chico Ejiro in 2007, told the story of two brothers who were at war over their inheritance. The last pair was Urenna and Lucy,

who reenacted another scene in Emotional Pain, played by Eucharia Anunobi (Greg’s wife) and Stella Damasus (Eucharia’s sister). Greg’s wife having discovered that her sister was pregnant for Greg, confronted her and the ensuing quarrel resulted in misery that got viewers hooked. After scrutiny by the judges, 6KDͿ\ %HOOR 1LQDORZR %RODQOH and veteran Ejike Asiegbu, the housemates entered a dairy room session to pick who the weakest link was among each of the pairs. The sledgehammer fell on Dammy and Lucy, now on probation and possible eviction.

Ninalowo

Tosin Clegg

ilmmaker and producer, Emem Isong-Misodi, has announced dates for the maiden edition RI KHU ÀOP IHVWLYDO $IULFDQ Cultural Film Festival. It will hold from October 26 to 29, 2023, in Houston, Texas, United States of America. With an intent to project originality and GLYHUVLW\ LQ FXOWXUH WKH YHWHUDQ ÀOPPDNHU saw the festival as an avenue to herald this idea. She said, “With our theme being ‘Thinking Local, Going Global’, we want to discuss, among other things, KRZ ZH DV ÀOP PDNHUV FDQ WHOO RXU ULFK local stories and enable them appeal to a global audience, without losing our DXWKHQWLFLW\ 7KLV WKHPH DOVR VLJQLÀHV our commitment to bridging the gap between the global audience and the local storytellers of Africa. “We believe that by amplifying the YRLFHV RI $IULFDQ ÀOPPDNHUV DQG VKRZFDVing their extraordinary talents, we can foster a deeper appreciation for African culture and promote a more accurate and nuanced understanding of this GLYHUVH FRQWLQHQW $ͿULFXͿ LV QRW MXVW D ÀOP IHVWLYDO LW·V D FXOWXUDO H[FKDQJH a celebration of unity in diversity. It about breaking stereotypes, forging connections, and creating opportunities for dialogue.” According to the organisers, over ÀOPV FRPSULVLQJ RI IHDWXUH OHQJWK PRYLHV VKRUW ÀOPV DQG GRFXPHQWDULHV have already been submitted. Winners RI WKH GLͿHUHQW DZDUG FDWHJRULHV RI WKH festival will be decided by a jury, chaired E\ IRUHPRVW ÀOP MRXUQDOLVW DQG FUHDWLYH industry expert, Dr. Shaibu Husseini.

Emem Isong

In the coming years, the organizers HQYLVLRQ $ͿULFXͿ EHFRPLQJ D EHDFRQ RI African cinema, a platform that nurtures talent, aspire to see the festival grow, drawing audiences from every corner of the world, and continuing to serve as a catalyst for meaningful change. “We envisioned a platform that celebrates the incredible wealth of African culture through the lens of cinema. Film KDV WKH SRZHU WR WUDQVSRUW XV WR GLͿHUHQW worlds, to evoke emotions, and to spark meaningful conversations. And so, we decided to use this powerful medium to showcase the unique voices and stories of Africa.” She added.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 14, 2023

SHOWBIZFLAIR

Wini Lizbet

I Strive to Create Authentic, Deeply Resonant Sounds Initially going by the stage name Wini, to Wini Lizbet, Afrobeats artiste, Winifred Okorie is unknowingly deliberate carving a niche in the music space and in the phase pushing the boundaries of her creativity. Meeting her as a rookie some five years ago in Lagos and interviewing her, you could tell how deeply passionate she is about music. Wini Lizbet who has just released a new song titled ‘On A Daily’, speaks to Ferdinand Ekechukwu, revealing beyond being an artist, her studies at a prestigious University in London had not only enriched but provided her with a solid foundation in understanding the music business and the skills needed to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of the industry

with varying preferences. Some younger artists may indeed focus more on creating music that is commercially appealing or trend-driven, while others are dedicated to crafting meaningful lyrics and delivering impactful messages.

ell us about you and your journey into music? My name is Winifred Okorie, but I am known by my stage name Wini Lizbet. Music has been my passion since my early years, and it all began during my time in Secondary School. I vividly remember the first time I heard a powerful song on the radio that resonated deeply with me. It was a transformative moment that sparked a burning desire within me to express myself through music. From that point on, I knew that music would be an integral part of my life. To pursue my passion further, I decided to study International Music Management at a prestigious University in London. This program has provided me with a solid foundation in understanding the global music industry, its dynamics, and the various aspects of artist management, promotion, and distribution. In my educational journey, I have had the privilege of learning from renowned industry professionals who have not only enriched my knowledge but also inspired me to push the boundaries of my creativity. My studies have given me a comprehensive understanding of the music business, equipping me with the skills needed to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of the industry. Was there any parental influence or background in music relating to yours? Regarding parental influence or background in music, my musical journey has been primarily driven by my own passion and self-motivation. While my parents have always been supportive of my pursuits, they do not have a direct background or involvement in the music industry. From a young age, my fascination with music sparked organically, and I took it upon myself to explore this art form independently. I sought out opportunities to learn and grow as a musician through various avenues such as self-study, online resources, and collaborations with fellow artists. What is it that you feel stands you out as an artiste? As a musician, I believe several aspects contribute to what sets me apart and defines my individuality in the industry. First and foremost, it’s my distinct artistic vision and the way I interpret and express myself through music. I strive to create a sound that is authentic, innovative, and deeply resonant with my personal experiences and emotions. By infusing my music with my unique perspective, I aim to connect with listeners on a profound level and evoke genuine emotions. Your formerly go by the stage name Wini, why Wini Lizbet now? My fans and music lovers were finding it difficult to see my songs because I’m not the only artist called Wini, I searched it myself and ‘omo we plenty o’. What music instrument do you love to play? I have a strong affinity for playing the keyboard, and it has been my instrument of choice for some time now. While I wouldn’t claim to be perfect at it just yet, I am deeply passionate about playing and constantly working to improve my skills. What’s your process of creating a songs/ music? My process of creating songs/music starts with various sources of inspiration. It could be

Who are you biggest inspirations, contemporaries and musical influences? Traditional African music, Afrobeats draws heavily from traditional African music genres such as highlife, juju, and Afrojuju. Exploring the works of past and present artists in these genres has deepened my understanding of the roots and heritage of Afrobeats, and inspires me to incorporate traditional elements into my own sound. But then Tiwa Savage has made a significant impact as a female artist in Afrobeats. Her powerful vocals, captivating stage presence, and ability to transcend cultural boundaries have earned her recognition both locally and internationally. Her journey had serve as an inspiration for me also. What do you enjoy the most about being an artist and creative? What I enjoy the most about being an artist and creative is the incredible sense of fulfillment and personal expression it brings to my life. Being an artist allows me to channel my emotions, thoughts, and experiences into a medium that transcends words alone. Through music and creativity, I can communicate and connect with others on a profound level, touching hearts, and evoking emotions. This ability to convey messages and evoke feelings through my art is immensely rewarding and fulfilling. How really would you describe yourself as a musician? I would describe myself as a passionate and dedicated artist who strives to create meaningful and evocative music. I am deeply committed to honing my craft, constantly seeking growth, and challenging myself creatively. One of my defining characteristics as a musician is my versatility. I enjoy exploring various musical genres and styles, never limiting myself to a single sound or approach. This flexibility allows me to experiment with different sounds, instrumentation, and musical elements, creating a diverse range of compositions.

Wini Lizbet

The songs that gained notable attention and contributed to my recognition in the music industry are Good Love, Manya and Nobody. These tracks resonated with audiences, featuring infectious rhythms, memorable melodies, and thought-provoking lyrics. They received What actually is your genre of music VLJQLÀFDQW DLUSOD\ RQ UDGLR VWDWLRQV JDUQHUHG SRVLWLYH considering that we have so many fusions of music genres now? reviews from critics, and helped expand my fanbase I’m into Afrobeats music. However, it’s worth an idea that comes to my mind, a memorable song line, or a specific theme I want to explore. Once I have that initial spark, I begin by writing down the lyrics and crafting the melodies. Throughout the creative process, I continually sing the song to myself, envisioning how I want my listeners to feel when they hear it. I focus on creating emotional impact, connecting with the audience on a deep level, and leaving a lasting impression. To ensure the song reaches its full potential, I believe in the power of revision and refinement. I rewrite the song multiple times, making adjustments to the lyrics, melodies, and overall structure. This iterative process allows me to fine-tune the song and ensure it meets my artistic standards. Before releasing any song, I spend considerable time singing it to myself until I feel comfortable and confident with the final version. This helps me ensure that

the song resonates with my own emotions and captures the essence of what I want to convey. How do you see music of the present and the past generation considering the criticisms trailing younger artistes not having sound lyrics and vain in their songs? The music of every generation reﬂects the cultural and social context in which it is created. Just as with any art form, there is a wide spectrum of creativity, talent, and depth within the present generation’s music. While some artists may prioritize catchy melodies and lighter subject matter, others are using their platform to address social issues, share personal stories, and evoke emotional depth. It is crucial to acknowledge that music is not a monolithic entity, and diﬀerent genres and artists cater to diverse audiences

noting that I am also highly versatile as an artist. I enjoy exploring different musical styles and incorporating diverse influences into my music. What inspires your music? What inspires the kind of music you particularly do? My music is inspired by a variety of sources that ignite my creativity and shape the kind of music I create as an Afrobeats artist. First and foremost, my African heritage and cultural background play a significant role in shaping my musical identity. The rich traditions, rhythms, and melodies of Africa are a constant source of inspiration for me. I draw from the vibrant sounds of traditional African music, incorporating elements that celebrate the diversity and beauty of the continent. Read full article online - www.thisdaylive.com

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 14, 2023

INTERVIEW Steve Babaeko

AAAN’s Unity Song, a Reminder of Nigeria’s Common Bond The President of the Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria (AAAN), Mr. Steve Babaeko, speaks to select journalists on the inspiration behind the association’s unity song, the state of the nation, and projections for Nigeria. Olaoluwakitan Babatunde was there

hat inspired the Unity Song by AAAN? The conﬂuence of the 50th anniversary of the Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria and the 63rd independence of our beloved nation, Nigeria, within the same year, presented a unique opportunity. The committeeentrustedwiththetaskoforchestrating a year-long celebration for the association conceived a multitude of exceptional ideas. Among these, the notion of crafting a theme song to honour Nigeria emerged. Encouraged by the overwhelminglypositiveresponsereceivedfrom citizensacrossthecountry,wetakeimmensepride in having fulﬁlled our commitment to steadfastly support our nation. In pursuit of this aspiration, we joined forces with the legendary singer and songwriter, Cobhams Asuquo, in this endeavour. The moment I initiated contact with him to introduce the project, his passion and unwavering enthusiasm proved to be nothing less than inspirational. What informed the choice of Cobhams as the producer of the track? Cobhams has been a steadfast collaborator of mine for well over 15 years. Over the course of our extensive partnership, we have undertaken numerous music projects on behalf of various clients. Whenever the need for a truly exceptional touch arises, Cobhams is my unequivocal go-to specialist. His multifaceted talents

call, compelling us all to embrace our collective responsibility in nation-building. Furthermore, this song aspires to serve as a poignant reminder of the common virtues that bind us together as a people, redirecting our focus away from our points of divergence.

Babaeko

as a producer, songwriter, and singer equip him with the comprehensive skills required to consistently deliver excellence, a feat he never fails to achieve. The remarkable quality of the “Naija No Dey Carry Last” song stands as irrefutable evidence that our decision to collaborate with him was indeed the right one. What does the association hope to achieve with this song? In the wake of the recent general elections, it is undeniable that our nation has experienced an exacerbated polarization, marked by an unsettling erosion of trust among its diverse regions.Theconceptbehindthissongwastocraft a unifying anthem, one that can serve as a clarion

Whatarethefinancialimplicationsofproducing and promoting this song? Let’s begin by discussing the production cost. Given that it’s a Cobhams Asuquo production, it naturally carries a premium. Quality work of this caliberunquestionablycomesataprice.It’sworth noting, however, that Cobhams enthusiastically committed to this project and commenced work even before discussing financial figures. We both shared a common understanding that this was a national assignment, driven by a sense of duty rather than a profit motive. Moving on to promotion, we recognized the need to support the song with a well-structured promotional strategy. This is essential to ensure the song reaches a wide audience and resonates effectively. How would you describe the current situation of the country? To be perfectly candid, the state of our nation is inaprecariouscondition.Theeconomicdisparities between the rich and the poor, coupled with the devaluation of the Naira against major global currencies,havecompoundedthechallengesfacedby everyday Nigerians. Nevertheless, it is precisely during such trying times that we should find the motivation to transcend these adversities, lift

ourselves up, and in doing so, elevate our nation as a whole. The federal government has called for collaboration and support of the association. How do you think AAAN can contribute more to Nigeria’s socio-economic development? The Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria stands ever-willing to engage and collaborate with the Federal Government when called upon. In this specific case, we took the initiativetoproactivelydevelopthisproject,firmly believing it to be a timely and vital contribution to our beloved nation. Beyond the scope of this project, our ongoing efforts involve the generation of employment opportunities,withaparticularfocusonpositively impacting the youth population in an area where unemployment rates are most pronounced. Advertising serves as the crucial catalyst that sustains and propels our nation’s economy, and candidly, it merits greater recognition for the role it plays. What have been the highlights of your AAAN Presidency? Despite our inauguration occurring during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, my working relationship with the Executive Board of AAAN has been an immensely rewarding experience. Collectively, we have undertaken a series of innovativeprojectsthathavesignificantlyenhanced the Association’s reputation. Read full Interview online - www.thisdaylive.com

Al-Tarzi

Deregulating Education Sector will Ensure Quality An erudite educationist and manager of men and resources, Dr. Fadl Al-Tarzi is the Chief Executive Oﬃcer of Nexford University, a next generation online institution based in Washington DC and recently turned out its third set of graduates in Nigeria. He explains to Funmi Ogundare, why governments need to deregulate the education sector and allow market forces to-regulate it as such will ensure quality institutions that will survive the times. Excerpts

hat is your view about the rush out of this country called ‘Japa’ syndrome? Clearly Japa is top of mind for many Nigerians, it is something I hear about almost on a daily basis while in Nigeria. Brain drain is a real challenge many markets are grappling with and in 2022 Nigeria recorded the largest number of passport applications in the last seven years, likely driven by the desire to Japa. It presents a real challenge to employers evidenced by our conversations with many of the country’s leading employers. Unfortunately,whilethetotal number of migrants is small relative to the overall population, those who are leaving are among the most qualified, creating a real challenge for employers to find and retain good talent. Having said that, the number of remote jobs across the world is on the rise and Nigeria is poised to benefit from this growing trend. Japa is becoming a choice rather than a necessity; Nigerians can now build the skills to qualify for a wide range of remote jobs rendering giving them the choice to stay or leave. Our role is to help equip learners with those skills and help them realise that the range of local challenges also present opportunities. Alongside our graduation recently, we had a demo day for founder alumni to pitch to experienced VCs, one of the

Deﬁnitely, Nexford University was designed from scratch for a global audience with Nigeria being among our largest markets. Nigerians have a real thirst for quality aﬀordable education and wehavefoundthemtobeamongthemostresilient learners across our global community.

Al-Tarzi

pitches was from a healthcare startup named Hospyta addressing the patient to doctor ratio problem through a telemedicine app which has the potential to radically address this challenge. Technology will continue to enable innovation to address the nation’s most pressing challenges and we hope some of our alumni will capture those opportunities. How have you been able to steer the ship of Nexford University to impact Nigerian students yearrning for quality education?

In the last three years, how have students who passed through Nexford fared? Ninety-two per cent of our graduates said Nexford prepared them for the current or future career, 88 per cent now feel more qualified than theirpeers.98percentwouldrecommendNexford to others, post-graduation, while 75 per cent have achieved or are on track to achieving a positive return on their education investment within just 12 months of graduation. We’re thrilled with these results and the positive impact we are creating across the world. How has your university been able to deepen partnerships with local and regional organisations? We have been able to achieve that by actively searching for like-minded organisations committed to investing in upskilling or reskilling their own team members. Research shows that 76 per cent of job seekers find a company more appealing if it offers additional skills training and companies experience 24 per cent higher profit margins when they invest in training. We’re

thrilled to count organisations such as Sterling Bank, AFEX, Nestle and LSETF among our local partners. What is your view about Artificial Intelligence and how has its introduction in your university helped African learners bolster their career? Simply put, those who leverage AI are going to replace those who don’t, in the workplace. So, we are actively encouraging and teaching our learners how and when to use AI, ethically. AI will open up a range of opportunities including increasing productivity and those who understand the practical implications of AI will become extremely valuable employees to local and global organisations as they prioritise digital transformation. In fact ,we recently launched a Masters in Digital Transformation which includes a strong focus on AI applications. How effectively do you think third world countries can fix their education and human capital deficiencies? Frankly speaking, I think the most effective measure is deregulation. Governments need to deregulate the sector, let market forces of supply and demand self-regulate. High quality institutions that offer real value will survive while lower quality ones will not. Read full Interview online - www.thisdaylive.com

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 14, 2023

RIGHT OF REPLY

Re: CG Adeniyi and Customs’ Mess at the Border Abdulsalam Mahmud

ven without having an acquaintance with him, I know that Mr. Yemi Adebowale is a patriotic Nigerian, who wishes that all systems of governance in Nigeria work, and efficiently too. He surely means well for Nigeria, and that is why he regularly contributes well-researched, edifying and thought-provoking articles on critical national issues for THISDAY newspaper, in his Saturday columns. His latest essay, titled: “The Mess By Customs at the Border,” was an interesting read, as usual, for Yours Truly. Like the previous ones he authored, Adebowale articulated and marshaled out his arguments, in a manner that can only be regarded as lucid and convincing. He apparently did not fail to enlighten his readers and Nigerians, in extension, about the decades-long rot in the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS - which they knew, already. However, Adebowale failed somewhat to acknowledge the assiduous effort Acting Comptroller General of Customs, Mr. Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, is making to cleanse the Augean stable. There is no denying the fact that the Nigeria Customs is still battling with systemic administrative issues, manifesting in the way and manner some of its personnel unprofessionally and recklessly discharge their responsibilities. It is no brainer that Customs officers and men have, in recent years, failed to guarantee effective border security, which is fuelling the menace of rice and oil smuggling, together with the importation of all sorts of contrabands, like Mr. Adebowale rightly mentioned, in his piece. Everyone also knows that not all Customs’ officers are incorruptible. In the NCS, some bag eggs often engaged in fraudulent dealings, causing the agency to be described as a cesspool of corruption. It is worrisome, to add that the Nigeria Customs, have always struggled to clear the air on the allegation of it not remitting proceeds of seized and auctioned goods, to government’s purse. The aforementioned and other failures of the Customs is not what can be addressed within a blaze. They will take some time, and perhaps, through the instrumentality of a visionary Comptroller in the saddle. At the time the Acting CG was appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as Customs’ helmsman, the image of the NCS had terribly been battered. It will be the height of mischief to say that the Customs was not almost consumed by the corruption and inefficiency claims of Mr. Adebowale, and other objective citizens. However, the Acting Comptroller, in hitting the ground running after assuming office, embarked on robust stakeholder engagement parleys, not only with other security and law enforcement outfits in the country, but also foreign nations and State Governments, together with Heads of other government agencies and traditional institutions. Suffice to say that Adewale Adeniyi has embarked on a pleasurable expedition of enhancing Customs’ efficiency through international collaborations, cutting-edge technologies such as AI-driven solutions, and innovative projects, all aimed at shaping the future of customs practices in the country. Without gainsaying, and in line with his policy thrust of Collaboration, Consultation and Innovation, the Acting NCS Comptroller’s partnership with professionals and global experts is geared towards making informed decisions that will not only promote trade facilitation, but boost the operational effectiveness of Customs’ personnel. Adeniyi, towards ensuring that a breath of fresh air pervades the Nigerian Customs ecosystem, has sleeplessly been toiling day and night to reposition the NCS, and restore its past glories. Recently, the Service made collaborative engagements to operationalise the use of Geospatial Intelligence, GEOINT,

Adeniyi

to enhance the efficiency of NCS enforcement operations and contribute to overall efficiency. The Acting CG has also engaged in strategic discussions with partners such as the World Customs Organisation, WCO, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and the Japan Customs Administration. The discussions aim to garner support for establishing a customs Laboratory, which is a significant milestone in enhancing customs operations and trade facilitation across Nigeria. The NCS Laboratory, for emphasis, will provide comprehensive solutions to address challenges such as counterfeit goods, smuggling, and non-compliant imports, thereby bolstering revenue generation and ensuring the protection of public health and safety. With its advanced analytical capabilities, the laboratory is expected to deliver precise identification, verification, and classification of goods, enabling efficient enforcement measures and informed decision-making, while fostering an environment of trust and credibility within Nigeria’s trade ecosystem, marking a transformative step towards achieving seamless customs operations, trade competitiveness, and national economic growth in line with the vision of the President Tinubu Led Administration. Similarly, Adeniyi’s engagements extended to fruitful discussions with relevant experts and donors, focusing on crucial areas such as conducting a Time Release Study (TRS), implementing the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program, leadership, and management development.

These discussions, no doubt, underscore the CG’s commitment to comprehensive improvements and his inclination to adopt innovative solutions across various customs domains, ultimately enhancing operations. About a month ago, the Acting Customs boss, further expressed his commitment to synergize with the Benin Republic to enhance trans-border security and regulate trade between the two countries. This was at a time when he also aﬃrmed partnership with the United Nations Human Settlements Programme, UN—Habitat, to combat smuggling. In furtherance, the Nigeria Customs has also reinvigorated its collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Transport and the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, to decongest Ports and enhance border security. Still in the spirit of collaboration, Adeniyi, on 21st July 2023, during an oﬃcial visit to Seme and Badagry, urged local communities to support law enforcement agencies in enhancing border surveillance. Considering the fact that Lagos controls 70 to 75 percent of NCS’ total revenue collection, the Customs Chief also paid a courtesy visit to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and pledged partnership with the state government. In what seems like one of the most productive collaborations towards enhancing national security and curbing revenue loss, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and Nigeria Customs have commenced an intensive vehicle database integration at the two government agencies. Meanwhile, Mr. Adewale Adeniyi in early

The acting CG of Customs, over the ODVW GD\V LQ RIÀFH KDV KHOG strategic alliances and talks with development partners to promote JRRG UHODWLRQVKLSV DQG VHUYLFH HIÀciency. These collaborations, without equivocation, have been vital to the Service’s gradual adoption of technology to enhance revenue generation

August visited the Acting Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, at the Force Headquarters, for inter-agencies’ cooperation and collaboration to fast-track sustainable working relationships between the Customs and the Nigeria Police, to ensure adequate security of lives and properties in the country. Immediately after the Niger Republic coup and the decision by President Tinubu to shut down Nigeria’s borders, the Customs helmsman visited Governor Dikko Umaru Radda of Katsina, requesting the cooperation of the State’s border communities. Additionally, Adeniyi has also expressed the readiness of the Customs’ management to collaborate with the National Center for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW) in the fight against trafficking of Small Arms and Light Weapons. As part of reviewing the anti-smuggling operations of the Customs, the CG disbanded the agency’s Strikeforce Team on the 17th of July, 2023, with a view to foster accountability, reduce multiple checkpoints and strengthen the Federal Operations Unit arm of the Service nationwide. The acting CG of Customs, over the last 100 days in office, has held strategic alliances and talks with development partners to promote good relationships and service efficiency. These collaborations, without equivocation, have been vital to the Service’s gradual adoption of technology to enhance revenue generation. Talking about revenue generation, there has been a remarkable boost in the monthly revenue collection of the Customs since Adeniyi came on board. The average monthly collection of N202 billion by the NCS in the first half of the year surged to N343 billion between July and August - about 70.13% increase in revenue collection. So far and under Adeniyi, the Nigeria Customs has been exceeding its monthly target collection of N307 billion. In its ongoing war against smuggling, the NCS has achieved impressive results over the past eight months. With a total of 1,763 seizures, valuing a substantial N11.9 billion in Duty Paid Value, the Nigerian Customs successfully intercepted various contraband items, including arms, ammunition, illicit drugs, substandard pharmaceuticals, and other prohibited goods that pose grave risks to citizens. It is necessary to also point out that the NCS has suffered series of attacks on its allant operatives ranging from blocking access roads, mob actions, and altercation from smugglers and their sympathisers, often resulting in permanent disability and loss of lives. There are also several instance where customs operatives acting on credible intelligence, intercepted truckloads, and other occasions, thousands Jerrycans of smuggled petrol products. The PRNigeria reported how the service intercepted trucks of smuggled petroleum products at the border. The customs boss himself, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi recently confirmed that contrabands intercepted by the Federal Operations Unit (FOU Zone A) included 35,100 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and 1,100 litres of diesel with arrests of suspects. These seizures, accompanied by the apprehension of scores of suspects clearly underscore Adeniyi’s commitment to ending the menace of smuggling in the country. For sure, the Nigeria Customs still has a long way to go, if it must become the model revenue-generating and anti-smuggling fighting body Mr. Yemi Adebowale and other progressive Nigerians envisioned. Yet, that vision is not unattainable - in the long run - judging by the transformational leadership Mr. Bashir Adewale Adeniyi is already offering as the Acting Comptroller General of the Service. The objective criticisms of Mr. Adebowale and other patriotic Nigerians cannot dampen his zeal and spirit to work, but rather bolster it. Mahmud is the Deputy Editor of PRNigeria, and wrote in via: babasalam1989@gmail. com

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ OCTOBER 14, 2023

POLITY

Abimbola Martins-Ogbonna: The Pain Lingers Exactly a year after the death of Mrs. Abimbola Martins-Ogbonna on October 15, 2022, in a ﬁre incident allegedly instigated by her estranged husband, Ikechukwu Ogbonna, the family is still trying to come into terms with her unfortunate demise even as they call for justice after the police charged the husband for manslaughter and domestic violence. Raheem Akingbolu writes.

ne year after the death of Abimbola, nee Martins, the family is yet to come to terms with her untimely death and to worsen their pains is the fact that the case against the husband, Ikechukwu Ogbonna, popularly known as IVD, has been dragging on with the family calling for the case to be expedited on so the family could have a closure and move on with their lives. Bimbo died from injuries she sustained from a fire incident during a scuffle with her husband in their Megamond Estate, Lekki home. A year after the incident, the case is still in court and would be coming for hearing again on Monday October 23 this year. When Bimbo, it was a culmination of years of domestic violence she had allegedly suffered in the hands of the husband. Sources close to the family told THISDAY that even appeals were made to the lady to walk out of the marriage so as not to meet untimely death. And when the fracas that led to her death last October broke out, it was seen as one of their regular scuffles. But little did her loved ones know it would be the last. Shortly after her death, the husband was arrested and charged for criminal negligence. This was as per the case file submitted to the Lagos State director or public prosecution, DPP. However, the DPP changed the case charge to manslaughter and domestic violence and the case is currently being held in a Lagos high court. The case was going on till the last break by the Judiciary. And after the break, the case was due for hearing again on Tuesday October 3rd but the husband and the accused, Ikechukwu, had sent a doctor’s report to the court that he was not feeling too well. The court admitted the report and adjourned the case till Monday October 23rd. Even before the case was called, the family had, last year, accused the police of cover-up as pressure was put on the family to settle out of court. The family had accused a retired commissioner of police of being the one behind Ogbonna and the attempt to coerce the family into settlement even as the family alleged that Ogbonna referred to that same former police senior officer on being his “godfather” in one of his statements. The family also claimed that when Ogbonna ‘s whereabouts were unknown immediately after his wife was involved in the fire mishap, which eventually killed her, he was alleged to have holed up in the former police

Abimbola boss’ house. In fact, in a twist that left observers wondering what was going on, Bimbo’s mother, Mrs. Comfort Martins, was surprisingly arrested by the police allegedly on the orders of Ogbonna who, in a petition to the police, accused the old woman of stealing $20,000 when she came to his house. The woman was later released but many people knew it was nothing but diversionary tactics and another attempt to ensure the family agreed to come to a negotiating table so they could agree to an out of court settlement. Wisdom Martins, the spokesperson for the family who was also arrested with Mrs. Comfort Martins, said it was not only unfortunate but laughable that Ogbonna would come with such a ridiculous accusation. “It was all trumped-up charges to intimidate the family and change the narrative.”

The family said a team of experts including police, department for domestic violence in Lagos State and fire department all went to inspect the crime scene. “They had to take him to accompany them because the first time they went, and we were not there then, the house was locked. So, the breaking of the house to do the examination and forensics was done in his presence as Ogbonna lives in a gated estate and only permission from him could grant any visitor or family members access into the estate. So let it be on record that the only time Mama and other members of our family went to IK’s house was that day. So how Mama or any of us had access to his house to steal money is not just stupid but figment of his imagination.” Speaking further, the Martins said immediately after the incident and even days before his sister died, (Bimbo died days after the fire incident) Ogbonna was nowhere to be found only to do a voice note that he did not abscond but was running around to raise money for hospital bills; adding that he was all that time hiding in the former police commissioner’s house. Speaking to THISDAY from her Abuja home earlier in the week, the elder sister of the deceased, Mrs. Folasade Osi Samuels, said it has been tough for the family coping with the death of their beloved sister and daughter in the last one year. Going emotional, Mrs Osi Samuels said her sister did not deserve the kind of fate that befell her in the name of marriage. She explained that before her death, she had been subjected to series of domestic violent acts in the hands of her husband. She thanked her extended family members and Nigerians for their support. “It has not been easy, emotionally, both for myself and my siblings as well as mama in the last one year. But the Lord has been faithful. And I want to thank Nigerians for their support and prayers during this difficult one year. Bimbo was a sweet soul who didn’t deserve what happened to her. And that is why we are trusting the authorities would do the needful and see that justice is not only done but seen to have been done. Since the case is in court of competent jurisdiction, there are certain things we cannot say. Once again, I thank Nigerians for their support and prayers and I call on them to keep the issue on front burner of public discourse and ensure that Bimbo gets the justice she deserves,” Mrs. Samuels said. Perhaps, the family can have a closure after and pray for a final repose of the soul of the poor lady.

Auchi Poly Mass Comm Alumni Hold Anniversary Olaoluwakitan Babatunde It was an occasion of joy, camaraderie and celebration as Class of 93, Department of Mass Communication, Auchi Polytechnic, Auchi, Edo State, held the 30th anniversary of their graduation from the institution in 1993. The theme of the reunion, held in Asaba, the Delta State capital, was “30 Years After: Reliving the Golan Height Experience” and had in attendance a good number of students of class 93, including the Delta State Commissioner for Works, Rural and Riverine Roads, Charles Aniagwu; Managing Director, Skyway Aviation Handling Company, Basil Agboarumi; an Assistant General Manager, Delta Broadcasting Service, Warri, Nkem Nwaeke, a Director in the Department of State Security Service, DSS, Barth Omoaka, amongst others. The gathering of the then students, 30 years after their graduation, provided opportunity to bond and relieve memories of their old days at the Golan Heights, the institution that has produced many great men and women, making waves across the globe. At the event in Asaba and from individuals’ testimonies, it was observed that members of Class of 93 Mass Communication Department, were not doing badly at adding values to the progressive track records typical of alumni of the Auchi Polytechnic, Auchi. While some have risen to positions of Managing Directors/Chief Executive Officers, CEOs in several thriving business establishments and Corporate Organizations, most of them in the public service are already in the management cadre as Directors, Deputy Directors, Assistant Directors and Senior Managers. Aside, Charles Aniagwu, a three time Commissioner and Member of the Delta State Executive Council, the Senior Special Assistant, SSA to the Rivers State Governor on Media and Publicity, Boniface Onyedi, is a member of the class. AMCOS Class of 93 which pride itself as one of the best set in the Department of Mass Communication, Auchi Polytechnic, Auchi, also has among its members, lecturers in higher institutions, Principal of Secondary Schools, High

Ranking Officers in the Nation’s Security Agencies as well as Publishers, Senior News Correspondents and Editors, including in Thisday Newspaper, NTA, AIT, News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, FRCN, Leadership, The Pointer Newspaper and foreign magazines. Those who left the shores of Nigeria in search of greener pastures, who are referred to as Diaspora Members, are also not doing badly in their hustles, which informed their active participation in the activities and programmes of the association that has kept it moving forward. The Asaba get-together featured various activities, including Pool Side Evening Hangout on the day of arrival; Physical Exercise, Road Walk, Lectures, Fund Raising for members’ welfare and projects at the Department of Mass Communication, Auchi, election of new executive to run the affairs of the Association for the next two years and a Gala night. The immediate past President, AMCOS 93, Pastor Austen Akhagbeme, the new President, Barrister Andrew Lawani and the Chairman of the Planning Committee, Joseph Obaro Ikupa, paid glowing tributes to all that contributed towards the success of the Annual General Conference and 30th anniversary celebration, even as they expressed optimism of a greater and more united alumni body. They stressed that the welfare of members and the giving back to the alma mata are of top priority and urged all to rise up to the task ahead. A member of the Class, Basil Agboarumi who delivered the main lecture for the reunion with the theme “Retiring into a Comfortable Healthy and Peaceful Life: The Prospects and the Challenges”, and Aniagwu in his contribution to the topic, stressed the need to make hay while the sun shines and admonished all to plan well for better tomorrows. Others who spoke, including the outgone Vice President, Mrs Dolly Amosu, shared ideas on how to prepare for retirement, how to cope with the present harsh economic situation, and how to handle stress, anxiety and depression. The Area Manager of Premium Trust Bank, Asaba, an alumnus of Auchi Polytechnic, Mr Monday Okowa, and some other invited guests also delivered goodwill messages during the lecture and fund raising session. Immediate past Diaspora Coordinator of AMCOS Class

Class of 93, Department of Mass Communication, Auchi Polytechnic.

93 and UK-based Jolly Iguodala in a telephone conversation, described the coming together of classmates thirty years after as commendable and stressed the need for members to be progressive minded and avoid divisive tendencies. The high point of the ceremony was the election of new executives for the association where Andrew Lawani, emerged as President, Agatha Matthew-Irabor, Vice President; Lawrence Ojeashi, General Secretary; Ejiro Bridget Enebeli, Treasurer; and Mercy Omokhodion, Financial Secretary. Others include, Vivian Uchunor, Public Relations Officer; Daniel Owie, Welfare Officer; Roseline Ojogri, Assistant General Secretary; Otokiti Fatai, Provost and Theophilus Eloka, Diaspora Coordinator. The elected executives were sworn in by Ramat Ilevbare, a Lawyer and Member, Board of Trustees of the association. There were dance and solo musical performances by six members of the class, namely, Aremu, Victor, Lucky, Austen, Esther and Bertrand, who were at the center of the entertainment hub in Auchi Polytechnic, Auchi between 1991 and 1993. On a sad note, a minute silence was observed for those members of the class who had transited to be with the Lord. Prayers were offered for the repose of their souls and for God to grant them eternal rest.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ OCTOBER 14, 2023

POLITY Keyamo: Caverton, a Game Changer in Aviation Industry

he Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo has described Caverton Helicopters’ Maintenance, Repairs and Overhaul (MRO) as an as a game changer and capable of taking the Nigerian aviation industry to a greater height.

The minister made this comment during a tour of the Caverton Aviation Training Center at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, Lagos yesterday. Speaking in response to what he saw at the facilities, the minister described the company as “one of the clear deliverables that I promised to support in my maiden speech upon inauguration.” Keyamo, who said he was “pleased, excited and happy” with the company’s performance, said his coming was a testimony to reason he was persuaded. He said: “I now know why I was persuaded to come. When you are good, you want everybody to come and see you and look at what you are doing.

“I am convinced with what I saw on ground. The facilities are fantastic and has definitely put Nigerian Aviation Industry on the global map. “I pray for you to continue to grow. It is not only you but, I must say, you have challenged us. Caverton is one of developed local industries that can attract foreign investors to Nigeria. Well done.” Caverton Helicopters, a subsidiary of Caverton Offshore Support Group (COSG), was established with an aim to be a leading player in the Nigerian aviation sector. In his address earlier, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of COSG, Mr. Olabode Makanjuola, while welcoming the minister, described his visit as a privilege. “Caverton Helicopters, a subsidiary of Caverton Offshore Support Group, has established itself as a leading player in the Nigerian aviation sector. With a presence on the Nigerian Stock Exchange and complemented by Caverton Marine Ltd, a renowned boat builder and vessel operator, our group has been at the forefront of driving growth and innovation in these respective industries.

“Honorable Minister, your presence here today signifies your commitment and dedication to the development and progress of the aviation sector. We are confident that under your leadership, the industry will experience remarkable advancements and achieve new milestones. Your expertise and vision will undoubtedly guide us in overcoming challenges and seizing opportunities that lie ahead. “As a company deeply entrenched in the aviation and marine sectors, we understand the importance of collaboration and partnerships in driving progress. We believe that by fostering strong relationships between the public and private sectors, we can collectively work towards creating an enabling environment for growth and investment. “Caverton’s facilities have been designed to meet the highest industry standards. With state-of-the-art infrastructure, cutting-edge technology, and a highly skilled workforce, we are well-equipped to support and contribute to the vision of a robust and sustainable aviation industry. We are committed to maintaining the highest safety standards, prioritizing innovation, and ensuring the efficient operation of our services.

Olojo Festival 2023 in Full Cultural Splendor with Seaman’s Support Rebeca Ejiforma

n a remarkable display of cultural support and celebration, Seaman’s Schnapps, Nigeria’s number one prayer drink from the stables of Grand Oak Limited, sponsored various activities during the Olojo Festival, culminating in a grand finale last Saturday. The festival, a significant annual tradition in Ile-Ife, Osun State, received an infusion of cultural enrichment from the premium brand. The festivities included sponsorship of local and indigenous games and competitions, such as the AyoOlopon game, which saw winners rewarded during the competition. Attendees also enjoyed samplings of Seaman’s Schnapps and captivating entertainment throughout the festival. Citing the Olojo Festival’s status as one of the most respected and popular festivals in the South West, Sylvester Nwanze, Trade Marketing Manager, Fountain

51st Ooni of Ife, HRH Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi who hailed the drink as the “elixir of blessings,” cherished by elders across generations. Expressing his heartfelt gratitude to Grand Oak Limited, the makers of this renowned Schnapps brand, for their unwavering support, to demonstrate the blessing potential of SEAMAN Schnapps. The Olojo Festival in Ile-Ife, Osun State, holds immense cultural significance as an annual tradition celebrating the essence of Yoruba culture, civilization, and creation. It commemorates the god of Iron, “Ogun,” considered the first son of Oduduwa, the The Ooni of Ife, Oonirisa, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, assisted by the mar- Yoruba progenitor. One of the festival’s notable moments is the Oba’s adornketing team of Grand OAK Limited, led by Director, Fountain Head Business, Grand Oak Limited, Mr. Olubusuyi Oloﬁn, cutting of the pre-Olojo ment of the sacred Aree crown, symbolizing the convergence anniversary festival cake in Ile-Ife... recently. of all creation. The Ooni’s blessings on this day are highly revered by his subjects, believed to be endowed with spiritual Head, Grand Oak Limited, shared the significance of Seaman’s significance. Oba Ogunwusi explained, “It is the day all sponsorship. creation converged, and the melting point is the sacred Aree He highlighted Seaman’s alignment with royal traditions and crown,” underscoring the festival’s deep spiritual and cultural its role as a prayer drink that complements the festival’s libations. importance.The Royal Majesty also said prayers with Seaman’s Seaman’s Schnapps also received royal recognition from the Schnapps at the occasion.

L-R: Chief Executive, Stanbic IBTC Holdings, Dr. Demola Sogunle; Chairman, Stanbic IBTC Holdings,Mr. Basil Omiyi; and Chief Executive Zest, Mr. Stanly Jacob at the oﬃcial launch of Zest by Stanbic IBTC held at Eko Hotel, in Lagos….recently

L-R: The Chief Executive Officer, Baobabplus Nigeria, Kola Osinowo; the Chief Operating Officer, Trade Lenda, Oyin Olaniyan; the Marketing Manager, Baobabplus Nigeria, Oluwabunmi Yagba and the Chief Commercial Officer, Baobabplus Nigeria, Kola Oguntuase during the Press conference to announce the strategic partnership between Baobabplus Nigeria and Trade Lenda held in Lagos ....yesterday SUNDAY ADIGUN

L-R: Senior General Manager, OTX Market, Shalina Healthcare,Dubai; Anijj Gairola, Brand Manager, Analgesic and Anti- Malaria, Shalina Healthcare Nigeria; Chiuba Nwaosu, Broda Shaggy, Comedian; Samuel Perry, Winner Shalina’s #Sharlatemidan Challenge; Adewale Omotolani Oladimeji, Head, Quality & Regulatory Aﬀairs, Shalina Healthcare Nigeria; Emeka Adimoha,Head,Corporate Marketing Shalina Healthcare, NigeL-R: Chief Executive Oﬃcer, Coronation Insurance Plc., Olamide Olajolo; DIrector, Abubakar A. Jimoh ria; and Key Accounts; Folorunso Alaran and Deputy General Manager West Africa; Sandeep Sahu, at the ( CFA); and Company Secretary, Mary Agha at the 65th Annual General Meeting of Coronation Insur- presentation of prizes to the winners of Shal’Artem Challenge Season 3 in Lagos.. Yesterday DAN UKANA. ance Plc held in Lagos… yesterday

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 14, 2023

AUTO WORLD

Bennett Oghifo 07052343083 Email:bennett.oghifo@thisdaylive.com

TIPS OF THE WEEK

Here’s How Using AC in Your Car Aﬀects Your Vehicle’s Fuel Economy Just like a home AC unit, your car’s air conditioning unit will impact your gas usage and, thus, your fuel economy. If you are trying to manage your vehicle’s fuel consumption following the current fuel price, you must know exactly KRZ KDYLQJ DQ $& DͿHFWV \RXU IXHO economy.

L-R: Board Chairman, Nigerian Automobile Manufacturers Association (NAMA), Bawo Omagbitse; Director-General, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Segun Ajayi-Kadir; Board Member NAMA, Nunu Diwan; and Executive Director, NAMA, Remi Olaofe, during a courtesy visit to the Director-General at MAN House, lkeja, Lagos… recently

Nigeria Auto Assemblers, MAN Seek Better Collaboration

he Nigerian Automobile Manufacturers Association (NAMA) and the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) have resolved to have a better relationship to enable them improve Nigeria’s struggling automotive industry. This was the focus of discussions when some members of the newly constituted board of NAMA, led by their Chairman, Bawo Omagbitse of PAN, paid a courtesy visit to the Director General of MAN, Segun Ajayi-Kadir, at MAN House in Ikeja, Lagos, recently. The team sought for a restoration of the hitherto cordial relationship existing between NAMA and MAN. The NAMA governing board representatives, which included Nunu Diwan of Iron Products Industries Ltd and Remi Olaofe, Executive Director of NAMA, expressed the imperative of the local automotive assemblers to get

more involved and visible in MAN’s activities and programmes. Also, NAMA expressed hope that going forward, MAN should be vocal on policies relating to the automotive sub-sector. “Being at a leadership advocacy position in promoting growth and sustainability of the manufacturing sector, MAN should support the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) in canvassing for the enactment of the 2023 NAIDP Bill, whose journey started in 2013,” Omagbitse said. Both parties expressed dissatisfaction at the slow-speed Nigeria’s automotive industry is moving when compared to some other African countries. The MAN and NAMA team took a critical look at the Africa Continental Free Trade Agreement. (AfCTA), and wondered why Nigeria should not play that leading role as an automotive hub

in the African continent considering the large population, rich human capital and economic base. During the visit, the imperative of bolstering local content to complement the sourcing of over 2000 parts in a vehicle was examined and it was agreed that content development would be driven by the appropriate policy environment. In 2013, the Federal Government had unveiled the National Automotive Policy with a view to boosting local vehicle assembly and making the industry competitive. Ten years down the line, many industry followers and stakeholders are still skeptical that the policy has been a mixed bag of successes and failures. The automotive sub-sector, however, has huge potential for growth and job creation, and with the collaborative actions of all critical stakeholders, the future outlook is positive.

Kia Oﬃcially Launches First Dedicated Electric Vehicles in Middle East, Africa

ia Middle East & Africa has announced WKH R΀FLDO ODXQFK RI LWV groundbreaking all-electric vehicles – the Kia EV9, EV6, and concept EV5 – at the Geneva International Motor Show in Doha, Qatar, hosted at the Doha Exhibition & Convention Centre from October 5 to October 14, 2023. Marking a VLJQLÀFDQW PLOHVWRQH DV WKH UHJLRQ·V ÀUVW dedicated EVs, the sustainable mobility solutions provider invites media attendees and VIP customers to test drive the vehicles at this prestigious event. Renowned regional media will stand a chance to experience the new, all-electric EV9 and EV6 models across various scenic locations, including Doha’s most sustainable smart city, Msheireb Downtown Doha, Katara Cultural Village, and Al Bayt Stadium on October 7. Another dedicated event will also take place exclusively for Kia’s VIP customers on October 8, along with a visit to Kia’s booth at the show promising an immersive and premium experience. Yaser Shabsogh, Vice President of Commercial Operations at Kia Middle East & Africa, commented: “This is a momentous

The Kia EV9, EV6, and concept EV5

occasion for us as we unveil our latest all-electric vehicles, the Kia EV9 and EV6. At Kia, we align our strategic vision with regional government objectives, tailoring VROXWLRQV WR PHHW VSHFLÀF UHTXLUHPHQWV DQG evolving customer needs. Kia has experienced tremendous growth in value over the last

few months since the relaunch of our brand, and we are placing high expectations on our EV range in taking Kia to new heights. Our unwavering commitment as a Sustainable Mobility Solutions Provider remains steadfast as we consistently deliver innovative solutions.”

How Much Fuel Does My Car AC Consume? Like a home air conditioning unit, a car’s AC is a bunch of machines working together to cool you down. Since machines need power, they get that power from your car. So, if you’re driving a gas-powered vehicle, that AC unit will ultimately get power from your engine burning through some gas. According to the EPA, a car’s AC unit can use much fuel. However, it depends on a lot of factors. In the worst conditions, the EPA said that using the AC in your car can reduce your fuel economy by up to 25%. For a car that gets about 30 MPG, that’s equal to a loss of 7.5 MPG. An obvious solution may be to buy an EV. However, as the EPA notes, using the AC on an electric vehicle can hurt its fuel economy quite a bit. How to Stay Cool Without AC Car windows exist for a reason. Roll down the windows and let the breeze cool you and your car. With that being said, there’s a small problem with that advice. According to the EPA, rolling down the windows when driving on the highway will hurt your fuel economy, even when using the AC. This is because of how aerodynamics work. As such, the EPA advises rolling down your windows at low speeds, while it may be better to bite the bullet and use the AC at highway speeds. However, that doesn’t mean drivers must use their AC at highway speeds. After all, there are other ways to stay cool without rolling down the windows. One of the cheaper ways to stay cool when driving is by using windshield shades to block the sun from overheating your car ’s interior. Other classic summer cooling techniques, like drinking cold water or sitting on a towel if your car has leather seats, will also cool you down. Other Ways to Save Fuel in Your Car While some may want to turn off the AC to save money, others may not have a choice. Other techniques are used other than not using the AC if you need to conserve fuel for whatever reason. For example, driving steadily below 50 MPH can dramatically improve your fuel economy, especially on highways. Other techniques are commonly used by folks who are called hypermilers. Hypermilers specialize in getting as much fuel economy out of their cars as possible, and their techniques work. For example, hypermilers will try to break as infrequently as possible. This is because it takes energy to slow the car down, so it will save fuel if your car is coasting for as long as possible. However, this method isn’t as easy to do in the city compared to highways. (Source: Carmart)

SATURDAY OCTOBER 14, 2023 • T H I S D AY

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ APRIL 24, 2011

GLOBAL SOCCER A

WEEKLY PULL-OUT

14.10.2023

NEWS

EYES ON MAXIMUM POINTS PAGE. 25

Gift Orban Halted Super Eagles Dream?

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ OCTOBER 14, 2023

GLOBAL SOCCER

Fresh trouble looms for Orban

Gift Orban Halted Super Eagles Dream? Since gaining prominence with his remarkable goal-scoring streak for KAA Gent, Gift Orban’s dream has always been to play for the Nigeria senior national team. His prayer was indeed answered last month when he was given a call-up for the Super Eagles AFCON qualiﬁer match against Sao Tome and Principe but an injury he sustained in training ensured he won’t be part of the dead rubber encounter. With a double header international friendly on the way for the three-time African champion, he was certain his dream would eventually come to pass, but alas, it was not to be as Togolese FA wrote NFF that Orban is indeed of Togolese nationality and, therefore, eligible to represent Togo and not Nigeria in international competitions

ust when he thought he has won the heart of Super Eagles manager, Jose Peseiro and injury denying him of a first cap for the national team, a fresh trouble has come to halt Gift Orban’s dream after Togo FA claim that the KAAGent striker is indeed a Togolese; something that has dealt a great blow to his participation in the 2023 AFCON for the three-time African champion. The Togo Football Federation has taken steps to halt Gift Orban’s involvement with the Nigerian national team, sparking a debate over his nationality. Orban’s journey began in Nigeria, where he struggled to make a name for himself in the footballing world. However, fate intervened when he moved to Togo for better opportunities. It was here that he caught the attention of renowned Nigerian scout, Ola Fowler, who spotted Orban during a trials program in Lome. The rising star gained prominence earlier this year with his remarkable goal-scoring streak for Belgian top-tier club KAA Gent. Orban, having earned his first call-up to the Super Eagles just last month, missed his chance to debut due to an injury sustained during training and his anticipated appearance was postponed due to his injury. With his return from injury, Orban was expected to join the national squad for upcoming fixtures in November. However, the young talent’s name was conspicuously absent from the Super Eagles’ squad list for the upcoming friendlies against Saudi Arabia and Mozambique. Reports have suggested that Orban’s

exclusion in November stems from an ongoing nationality dispute. Allegedly, the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) received correspondence from the Togolese FA asserting that Orban is, in fact, of Togolese nationality and, therefore, eligible to represent Togo in international competitions. To avoid potential conflicts with FIFA regulations, the NFF has opted not to invite Orban to the national team until this matter is resolved. This unexpected development may have significant implications for Orban’s international career, potentially ruling him out of Nigeria’s participation in the Africa Cup of Nations scheduled to be held in Ivory Coast in January. Orban currently holds a Nigerian passport and has publicly acknowledged his father’s roots in Benue State, while his mother hails from Togo. Despite initial high expectations, Orban’s recent performance has dropped as a muchanticipated move to a major league failed to materialise. Since his transfer to Gent from Norwegian club Stabaek in January, he has managed to net 26 goals. Indeed, KAA Gent manager, Hein Vanhaezebrouck, has revealed that Orban has not been at his best compared to last season’s hot form, having scored two goals in seven appearances this season. The 59-year-old boss said things are not going smoothly with the young Nigerian sharpshooter, even in training, which might see him have limited playing time. The promising talent has recently piqued

the interest of several teams, among which Tottenham Hotspurs were lining him up for a move to replace Harry Kane, who left for Bayern Munich. The 21-year-old also gained Jose Peseiro’s attention, who invited him to the Super Eagles national team squad to face Sao Tome and Principe but could not feature after picking a slight knock in training. His rival in Vanhaezebrouck’s starting lineup, Hugo Cuypers, has recently picked up an injury, which Orban is expected to take advantage of. However, with the latest from the Belgian manager, there seems not to be light at the end of the tunnel for Orban. “Things are not going so smoothly with Gift either in training,” he said. He explained further: “It’s very simple: someone who plays fantastically well in training always plays. Or you have to be new like my neighbour, because then you sometimes have to pick up some things. We also think it’s strange, but I also mentioned that last year: then everything worked and everything was great. Sometimes things just don’t work out, and Gift is just in such a moment, but that can also make him stronger, once he finds his way to the goal again.” Meanwhile, AC Milan has set its sights on a potential striking sensation to bolster their squad, and one of the names gaining attention is Orban who has been drawing comparisons to Napoli’s Victor Osimhen. According to Calciomercato.com, Milan is actively considering multiple strikers for a future signing, with their sights set

on a player who could potentially succeed Olivier Giroud. Meanwhile, in Belgium, Orban has not been at his best, and has started the 2023-24 season campaign on a low stats, scoring just two goals in his last eight domestic league appearances compared to last season. Despite these performances, the Super Eagles invitee has emerged as a promising option for the Rossoneri who could Orban has ample time for further development, and it’s no surprise that several clubs are closely monitoring his progress, eagerly anticipating the chance to secure his services. Interestingly, Fulham are also reportedly eyeing a move for Orban as a replacement for Aleksandar Mitrovi. According to Team Talk, the Cottagers are seeking to pursue a deal for the Nigerian striker in the January transfer window as they look to bolster their attacking options. Fulham had brought in Raúl Jiménez as a replacement for Mitrovi but the Mexican has struggled to make an impact, failing to score in all of his eight appearances for the Londonbased side. Orban was linked with Tottenham in the just-concluded transfer window as a replacement for Harry Kane but Gent’s valuation of the diminutive forward was too excessive for Spurs. With Tottenham enjoying a brilliant start to the season that has seen them sit atop the Premier League standings and scoring 18 goals after eight games, it remains to be seen whether they still retain their interest in the services of the Gent forward.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ OCTOBER 14, 2023

GLOBAL SOCCER

Rangers Godwin Obaje tackled by Auwalu Abukakar of Doma United during one the NPFL week one matches

Rangers Put Remo Stars’ Defeat Behind, Target Three Points against Tornadoes

fter losing to a 53rd minute Sikiru Alimi’s goal against Remo Stars in Ikenne, Ogun State, last weekend, Rangers International F.C, under the technical guidance of Coach Fidelis Ilechukwu are in Awka for the match day 3, NPFL 2023/2024 fixture against visiting Niger Tornadoes with their eyes fixed squarely on annexing the maximum points at stake and enhance their position on the 20 teams log. With one win and a loss in its first two league fixtures of the season, Ilechukwu will be leashing his very potent attacking and midfield generals on the coach Abdulazeez Hamza Abara tutored side that has also had a win and a loss in the two weeks old league. Ilechukwu and his wards have put

G LO B A L S O C C E R ASSISTANT EDITOR KUNLE ADEWALE THISDAY ON SATURDAY EDITOR YEMI ADEBOWALE DEPUTY EDITOR AHAMIFULA OGBU THISDAY NEWSPAPERS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU

behind them the loss to Remo Stars in a week 2 encounter at Ikenne, Ogun State, and fully focused on doing the needful against the ‘Ikon Allah Boys’ from Minna with the likes of Kalu Nweke, Godwin Obaje, and Ifeanyi Ogba leading the lines with the dominant presence of skipper of the side, Nwaodu Chukwudi and other lieutenants while expecting great cover at the back from defense marshal, David Chimezie. Ilechukwu while speaking ahead of the clash said, “Niger Tornadoes are always a difficult side to play, especially with the presence of my former colleague, Coach Abara at the squad. But like we do here in Rangers, we take each match as they come and we have our strategy for every team. With the work put in by my players and coaches after our last match, I am very positive about the outcome of the weekend’s encounter in Awka. Let our fans come out in their numbers to cheer us to a good win on Sunday.”

Coach Abara will be banking on the force of former Rangers attacker, Musa Najere to earn anything from this fixture with Ifeanyi Okoye, Alex Emeka, Silvester Bell, Bashir Usman anchoring the middle of the pack with Bolaji Adeyemo, Samuel Tswanya Abiodun Adebayo providing cover for shot-stopper, Joshua Enaholo. Going down memory lane, both sides have had eight encounters since June 18, 2017, where it ended goalless in Minna, and early this year, on April 16, 2023, where the score at full time stood at 2-2 in Awka. The other six fixtures saw two wins for either side and two drawn games with Rangers’ 4-0 demolition of the Tornadoes on January 2, 2022, the biggest win recorded by either side. Going into this fixture, the seven-time Nigeria league champions, occupy the 7th spot while Niger Tornadoes are placed on the 15th spot on the 20-team log. Both sides have three points apiece secured from a win in two matches but the host has scored more goals.

Heartland Still Title Contender, Says Head Coach, Obi In spite of the club’s unimpressive start to the 2023/24 Nigeria Premier Football League season in which newly promoted Heartland of Owerri have only managed one point in two matches, Head Coach of the side, Christian Obi is optimistic his side can challenge for the title this season. The Naze Millionaires opened their 2023/24 campaign with a home draw against Lobi Stars, followed by last week away loss to Plateau United in Jos.

Obi boasted that with the calibre of players at his disposal, they have all it takes to contest against any opponent in the league. He also stated that Heartland have big ambition in the new season. “We have got a team full of winners with hunger to succeed,” he told an online daily. “We have players that are ready to fight for the NPFL title, they just need to believe in the process and their ambition.”

Insurance in High Spirit for Plateau Utd Visit Bendel Insurance midfielder Kelly Kester has declared the team’s readiness for the Nigeria Premier Football League clash against Plateau United. The encounter is billed for the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City, today. Kester said the players are fully ready for the encounter but urged the fans not to relent in their support to the team. “All we need now is the prayer and support of the fans,” he said. “We are fully ready for the game and the prayer will see us through as we aim to improve on our performance. “We will try to do our best to deliver against Plateau United on Saturday.” Bendel Insurance started their NPFL campaign with a 2-0 victory against Shooting Stars.

WEEK THREE FIXTURES Insurance v Plateau Utd 16:00 Katsina Utd v Lobi Stars 16:00 Sunshine v Heartland 16:00 Abia Warriors v Kano Pillars 16:00 Bayelsa Utd v Remo Stars 16:00 Enugu Rangers v Tornadoes 16:00 Enyimba v Akwa Utd 16:00 Rivers Utd v Kwara Utd 16:00 Shooting v Gombe 16:00 Sporting Lagos v Doma Utd 16:00

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ OCTOBER 14, 2023

GLOBAL SOCCER

Babajide waltzes through two opponents in a Spanish Liga F encounter

Rinsola Babajide: Another Foreign Reject in Nigeria’s Fold

t is not uncommon for Nigeria’s senior national team-male and female to parade European players of Nigerian descent in spite of them having played in age-grade competitions for their country of birth. Except for a few, it is after most of these players have failed to meet the cut of the senior national teams of their country of birth that they turned to their father land for succour and a very good example is Tenerife striker, Rinsola Babajide, who is enjoying the headlines after she recently got Super Falcons call-up. Unlike her contemporary, Ashleigh Plumptre, who could easily walk into the England Lioness team but chose Nigeria despite representing England at youth levels because she wanted to uncover more about her heritage, while it was after Babajide failed to impress at the senior level that she opted to change her nationality to Nigeria. “For me, I always say that I have to play football for more than just playing it itself. The same way that I chose to join Leicester be-

cause of my hometown’s club. “With Nigeria, I wanted to uncover more of my heritage that I hadn’t delved into before because my dad is half-Nigerian and halfEnglish. My grandad was born in Lagos. But i’ve been brought up very British, so, I want to join the Nigerian team where I got to experience food like this, experience more of the culture, I guess,” she had said. Interestingly, Babajide, who was born to Nigerian parents in London, was named in Randy Waldrum’s squad to face Ethiopia in a second-round qualifier for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games women’s football event. In her reaction to her rece n t call up to the Falcons, she e x p re s s e d d e l i g h t a t t h e l o v e shown to her by Nigerians following her inclusion in the team. “The love I’ve been feeling has been very overwhelming, thank you so much. Grateful & blessed f o r t h i s o p p o r t u n i t y, # H o n o u re d , ” s h e w ro t e o n h e r X . “My main focus is trying to get into the team and just make

s u re I ’ m i n t h e l i m e l i g h t . ” B a b a j i d e h a d re p re s e n t e d England at U-19, U-20 and U-21 l e v e l s b e f o re s w i t c h i n g a l l e giance to Nigeria at senior level. In August 2018, she was part of the England U20s squad that c l a i m e d b ro n z e a t t h e 2 0 1 8 F I FA U - 2 0 Wo m e n ’ s Wo r l d C u p c u l m i n a t i n g to her inclusion in a training camp for the England senior team in September 2020 but failed to impress the team handlers. After being released by Real Betis Feminas at the expiration of her contract in the summer, Babajide was unveiled by Liga F side, UD Granadilla Tenerife marking a return to Spain. The former Liverpool FC star who scored six goals and emerged as Real Betis’ Most Valuable Player in the 2022/23 season opted to join Tenerife who finished sixth on the Liga F table last season despite interests from other clubs. The club announced the signing of the England-born player saying, “Rinsola Babajide third signing from UDG Tenerife. The English striker (ex @liverpoolfcw) and @realbetisfem

target the blue and white attack.” The 24-year-old striker possesses lots of qualities bound to help Tenerife perform at an optimal level in the coming season which includes agility, speed, good positioning, high scoring IQ amongst others. Babajide joining of Tenerife comes four weeks after Super Falcons striker Esther Okoronkwo joined the Spanish side from French club, St Etienne.. Born in London, Babajide joined Millwall Lionesses Ladies from Crystal Palace Ladies in January 2015, but made her professional debut on March 18 against the London Bees in a FA WSL match which ended in a draw. Before her move to Tenerife on 3 July 2023, she featured for Liverpool, Watford, Brighton and Hove Albion and Real Betis. She was Liverpool’s second highest goal scorer in the 2018/19 WSL season with two campaign goals. Babajide was then Liverpool’s joint-second WSLgoal scorer in the 2019/20 season with one single league goal. From 2016 to 2019 she played for England’s U-19, U-20 and U-21.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ OCTOBER 14, 2023

GLOBAL SOCCER

IDP kids learning the basics of playing chess

Queen Vee Chess Academy Enoh: Nigeria Expects Super Eagles Helping IDP Kids to Play

Super Eagles

to Win AfCON in Cote d’Ivoire Deji Elumoye in Abuja Minister of Sports, John Enoh, has disclosed that Nigeria expects the Super Eagles to emerge from Group A, which includes the host nation, Cote d’Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea and Guinea-Bissau, and go ahead to win the trophy with Thursday’s draw of the African Cup of Nations (AfCON). Addressing newsmen yesterday after meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the State House in Abuja, Enoh said all efforts will be made to rally the nation behind them for the

required solidarity and support, saying that when they know that they have massive home support, it will encourage them to perform well. The Minister noted that for a country that has not won the AfCON for a long time, Super Eagles have the desire to and determination to win again, “which means they must prepare very well.” Enoh announced that President Tinubu has approved a national campaign christened “Let’s Do It Again” to mobilise resources

for the Super Eagles for a successful tournament. According to him: “By the time they know that the whole country is behind them, they will have added fire power. The country’s expectation is that they will win the cup and bring it back to Nigeria. That’s the idea of the campaign. It will be a morale booster”. The Minister explained that the idea of ‘Let’s Do It Again’ campaign is also to mobilise resources from the private sector to support the national team such that government funds would not be needed to prosecute the tournament.

Eagles, Falcons Settle for 2-2 Draw in Portimao Just as happened in their only previous encounter 13 years ago, which was also a friendly match, Nigeria and Saudi Arabia could not be separated at the end of their second-ever meeting in Portugal yesterday, with the three-time Asian champions netting a last-gasp equalizer from a free-kick at the edge of the box that deflected off Calvin Bassey. Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman and Samuel Chukwueze had first-half chances to put the Super Eagles ahead but could not, only for the Saudis, who had lost their last six matches in all competitions, to take a shock lead on the hour mark when goalkeeper Francis Uzoho palmed the ball

into his own net from a free-kick way out on the right flank by Salman Al Faraj. Coach Jose Peseiro introduced Terem Moffi for the injured Victor Osimhen, and brought in Bright Osayi-Samuel, Kelechi Iheanacho and Moses Simon to relieve Tyronne Ebuehi, Lookman and Chukwueze. This appeared to improve Nigeria’s lot at the fore, as Iheanacho and Simon rattled the Falcons’ defence at will, and Simon was the architect of Nigeria’s equalizer, when he did a yeoman’s job to lay the ball to Victor Boniface to score his first Nigeria goal from a tight angle in the 73rd minute. Eight minutes later, Iheanacho drove the ball powerfully into the

net beyond the flailing hands of the Falcons’ goalie, after Moffi and Simon combined to put the opposing defence in knots. The game came less than 24 hours after the Super Eagles learnt they would be playing hosts Cote d’Ivoire, Guinea Bissau and Equatorial Guinea in the group phase at the Africa Cup of Nations early next year, and 48 hours after they adopted ‘Let’s Do It Again’ as their mantra for the trophy quest in Cote d’Ivoire. On Monday, the Super Eagles will take on the Mambas of Mozambique in another friendly encounter at the same venue, before 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Zimbabwe next month.

Iran Clears Air on Ronaldo facing 99 strokes for Kissing Iran has debunked reports claiming that Al-Nassr forward, Cristiano Ronaldo, is facing 99 lashes for kissing artist Fatemeh Hamami. The incident happened when Ronaldo travelled to Iran with his Saudi Pro League club last month to face Persepolis in the AFC Champions League. Before the game, Ronaldo met with Hamami in Tehran where she presented him with two portraits. Hamami painted the portraits with her feet due to her paralysis.

During their meeting, Ronaldo hugged her and kissed her on the head. His actions led to reports that lawyers have filed charges against the five-time Ballon d’Or winner for committing adultery. Law in Iran forbids affectionate gestures between a man and a woman who are not married. However, a statement from the Iranian embassy in Spain read: “We strongly deny the issuance of any court ruling against any international athlete in Iran. “It is a matter of concern

that the publication of such unfounded news could overshadow crimes against humanity and war crimes against the oppressed Palestinian nation. “It should be noted that Cristiano Ronaldo travelled to Iran on September 18 and 19 to play in an official football match and was very well received by the people and the authorities. His sincere and humane meeting with Fatemeh Hamami was also praised and admired by both the people and the country’s sports authorities.”

Napoli Worry after Osimhen Injury for Nigeria Napoli are worried after news Victor Osimhen limped off injured during Nigeria’s friendly match against Roberto Mancini’s Saudi Arabia. The centre-forward was in the starting XI for this evening’s game, which ended with a 2-2 result. Saudi Arabia had taken the lead, but Nigeria turned it around only to be held in

stoppages by a deflected effort. Osimhen suddenly crumpled to the ground after a knock and motioned to the bench that he wanted to be substituted at the 55th minute. It is not yet clear what kind of injury he has sustained, but it will undoubtedly concern Napoli ahead of

crucial games against Verona, Union Berlin in the Champions League and Milan in Serie A. Osimhen has an unfortunate record of sustaining injuries while playing for Nigeria, including a dislocated shoulder in November 2020 that kept him out for two months. He also contracted COVID on two different Christmas visits back home.

There is a programme going on in Adamawa State called Chess for Kids in IDP Camps. It is all about teaching and training kids that were internally displaced due to insurgency in North East of Nigeria in many ways. The lady behind the programme, Vivian Ibrahim says she is using the game of Chess to develop the mental capacity of these children. Vivian says, “For me, it is about using Chess to help them through situations of uncertainty. It is to occupy their minds in a positive way and to give them access to opportunities in life especially in Adamawa State and invariably anywhere possible in Nigeria.”

The IDP Camps programme started early this year, but before then, the Queen Vee Chess Academy in Yola had been teaching a lot of children how to play the game of chess. Queen Vee had also been organising chess tournaments in Yola and environs in Adamawa State. Many of these kinds of programmes run by NonGovernmental Organisations usually have sponsors backing them up financially to enable them reach their major goals but it is not yet so with Lady Vivian and she has to continually dip into her pocket to keep her pet projects going. The only other way for now is when friends and family members step forward financially for her.

“The sponsorship is from my pocket and also donations from family and friends,” Vivian, a beauty pageant winner explains. Vivian did not just appear on the scene. She has working in every way to make her life goals possible. She has a Masters degree in Computer Science and started lecturing in Computer Science at the Adamawa State Polytechnic in 2018. “I lost the job though in 2019 due to change of government. But I have moved strongly doing a lot of other things for myself. I make perfumes and hair cream and they are selling well among other things,” she explains. And Queen Vee is doing all she can to get those kids in Adamawa well motivated.

FA’s Israel-Gaza Tribute before England Match Met with Criticism The Football Association has “tried to make the best decision with good intentions” over tributes to those who have died in Israel and Gaza, according to England manager Gareth Southgate. Players will wear black armbands during Friday’s match between England and Australia and a period of silence will be

held in order to respect “the innocent victims of the devastating events in Israel and Palestine”. The FA has chosen not to light up the Wembley arch with the colours of the Israeli flag. Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport Lucy Frazer has called that decision “extremely disappointing”. More than 1,200 people have

been killed in Israel in a series of attacks launched by Palestinian militant group Hamas last week. Israel then launched air strikes on Gaza and has restricted access to food, water, fuel and medicine in the territory. More than 1,300 people have been killed in Gaza in those strikes, with 338,000 people displaced.

IOC Suspends Russian Olympic Committee The International Olympic Committee’s executive board has suspended the Russian Olympic Committee “with immediate effect until further notice”. The move comes after the ROC recognised regional organisations from four Ukrainian territories illegally annexed by Russia since its full-scale invasion began in 2022. The IOC said last Thursday’s recognition was “a breach of the Olympic Charter because it violates the territorial integrity of the National Olympic Committee of Ukraine”. The suspension means the

ROC “is no longer entitled to operate as a National Olympic Committee” and “cannot receive any funding from the Olympic movement”. Olympic Councils from the regions of Luhansk, Donetsk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia had been recognised by the ROC. The IOC added it would decide whether Russian athletes could compete as neutrals at Paris 2024 “at the appropriate time”. In response, the ROC called the suspension “another counterproductive decision with obvious political motivations”. The IOC did not initially

sanction the ROC following the invasion, but Russia has been banned from competing as a nation in athletics since November 2015 after state-sponsored doping was uncovered. Russia’s doping suspension was lifted in March but the World Athletics Council ruled the nation would remain banned “for the foreseeable future” because of the war in Ukraine. The IOC has been under consistent pressure to ban Russian and Belarusian athletes from competing even under a neutral flag since the invasion began.

Fubara Rewards Rivers Hoopers Basketball Club with N30m Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt Rivers State Governor, Mr Siminalayi Fubara has gifted N30million to Rivers Hoopers Basketball Club, a reward for winning the Louis Edem International Basketball competition. Governor Fubara announced the reward yesterday, when the basketball team presented their laurel to him at Government House in Port Harcourt. Speaking during the presentation, the governor assured of sustaining support for the growth of all sporting activities in the State and make it attractive to lure misguided youths out of criminality.

He said with the support given to the team, it was also expected of them to work so hard with discipline to win the trophy as a justification of the support and proof to the world that they can be the best in their chosen field. “It is not just about giving you the enablement in terms of financial support, but it also matters to know what the contributions of the management and the players towards achieving the purpose of the team. So, I say thank you to the management team especially, that you did what you are supposed to do and to the team players also. “You know, what you are doing today will serve as sign to those youths constituting nuisance and perpetrating all

forms of criminality to make them realise that they are wasting their energies rather than deploying them to useful ventures for the benefit of our State.” Fubara also commended the Commissioner for Sports, Mr Christopher Green for effectively managing the team to achieve results. In his remarks, the state Sports Commissioner, Green applauded the governor for rewarding hardwork, saying that the Rivers Hoopers Basketball Club won all their concluding six matches and beat Ghana’s team to emerge the winners of Louis Edem International Basketball competition in Lagos.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER OCTOBER 14, 2023

EXPRESSION

MEDIAGAFFES

You Had Better, Not ‘You Better’…

EBERE WABARA

HE mode of transport does not crash when an accident happens—what crashes is the contraption used. The day air crashes it means Armageddon! Similarly, the road cannot crash except, perhaps, in major war situations when dynamites are used to break up enemy roads. With sea, it is shipwreck, not sea crash or wreck! A train derails, while the tracks (rail lines remain) and cannot crash—they can only get obsolete and become incapacitated. Overall, it is not the scene of a mishap that determines the nature of it, but the physicality of the occurrence which lacks permanence. What do you think about these standpoints of mine? Let us exchange constructive ideas on them via email, not SMS, please. “Amidst (Amid) succession crisis (crises) rocking the oil-rich….” ‘Amidst’ is strictly literary, old-fashioned. “The bitter sweet (bittersweet) experience of marrying a soldier” “…the ‘cat and mouse’ (cat-and-mouse) relationship between wives and their motherin-laws” New Woman: mothers-in-law “And the list of victims continue (continues) to swell on a daily basis.” “The presidential spokesman, speaking on television, said most of the critics do (did) not understand the issues involved….” “He said such decision (a decision) is (was) not for the President alone….” “…pointing out that state pardon is to help restore such convicts (ex-convict, you mean?) back in the society.” Sophisticated ignorance: restore such ex-convicts to the society. “He also dismissed suggestion that the….” Either suggestions or a/the suggestion that….. “We believe that the workers are right to demand for the payment of minimum wage.” Yank away ‘for’ in the interest of orderliness.

“The military organize and wrestle (wrest) power by force, and unconstitutionally from elected civilian democratic governments through….” “Sadly enough, this ugly trend of military democracy is gradually but steadily being accepted in the continent.” Always: on the continent. “...there is (are) bound to be problems.” “…at the school’s convocation lecture in (on) its premises at the weekend.” “Besides, it is our belief that the police needs (need) a proper re-orientation along a community line as the case in United States and Israel.” Vanguard of September 24 fumbled copiously: “…accusations levied (levelled) against ASUU….” “…a rape of their potentials (potential)….” Again, ‘potential’ is uncountable. Alternatively: potentialities “Maybe you need the services of competent midwifes (midwives) to eﬀect implementation of the agreement you helped to reach then.” “…maybe you consider them birds of the same feather with ASUU.” Education today: birds of a feather (not ‘the same feather’) Finally from the back page of Vanguard under review: “Every human being under the sun has one permanent challenge or the other (or another).” “While some of life battles may be physical, majority (a majority) of life battles (of others) are psychological.” The Guardian of September 23 nurtured ungrammaticalities: “According to him, the Federal Government plans to issue between ﬁve to (and) 10 years (years’) visas to foreign investors coming into the country.” Let us keep an appointment with The PUNCH of September 23: “Kwara plans N5bn youth job creation (job-creation) scheme”

From the back page of the above edition comes this salvo: “…President Tinubu’s stance on the strike action by the NLC” Just strike—no need for ‘action’! “ICPC arrests five over (for) visa scam” “The emergence of digital communication tools have (has) completely transformed the competitive landscape for companies of all sizes and sectors.” (Full-page advertisement by WSI Digital Marketing) “NANS block River Niger Bridge in protest” The truth: National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) blocks… And this: the bit about ‘in protest’ is needless—let the story give the detail. In any case, why would they block the bridge if not in protest? “Otti assures of equitable distribution of projects” Who did the senator assure? “Gov reconstitutes Enugu Traditional Rulers (Rulers’) Council” and this, too: “Ebonyi gets 21 days (days’) ultimatum from college staff over tax” “For years, the Edo House on Victoria Island has been laying (lying) waste.” This mistake is too elementary to appear in a reputable newspaper! “Italy (Italian) court bans (bars) Berlusconi from public office for two years” ‘Ban’ presupposes currency in this contextual circumstance (that is, if he was still serving) but ‘bar’ is anticipatory, which means that the former Italian PM cannot hold any public office in the next two years Now THE NATION ON SUNDAY of October 1: “The presidency, also aware of its interests, may do same (the same).” “…was in Ota to hold series (a series) of meetings with opinion leaders in the area.” “…said there is (was) no crisis in the state (state’s) chapter of the party.” “APGA lose (loses) more members to APC, LP in Anambra”

Savagery is Still Our National Pastime

little over a month ago (8 September) marked the fifth anniversary when this column appeared for the first time in ThisDay on Saturday newspaper in 2018. The maiden article was titled ‘Savagery As National Pastime’. Few days ago, we decided to memorialize the five years of weekly conversations on these pages, and gauge if there is any positive dent on the chequered national framework since we “set foot at dawn”. Well, we regret to announce that instead of the witch’s ailment to abate, she continues to procreate more female inheritors. Our case has plummeted even further south, as our young ones have grown wilder and more uncontrollable in the ventilation of their ungarnished disgust and cynicism of how the affairs of the nation are being run, and the quality of leadership that is foisted on them. Reading, again, the first article below, with only substitutions of a few names, it may appear to you like a commentary on last month’s happenings. It is that bad. Let’s go...: “Here is a window to a typical day on WhatsApp closed groups: “Ol’boy: So, Afenifere too have fallen in love with Atiku? They said they’re ready to join forces with Atiku so far Buhari can be removed, for restructuring to come to Nigeria! Skola: Aha! That means Pa Adebanjo and cohorts have been Atikulated! (Several grinning Emojis follow) Biggie: @Skola, are you well? Abi you just woke up in that Isheri brothel? Why do you lazy youths have no respect for elders? Do you know that Pa Ayo Adebanjo is over 90 years? Skola: Mr. Respect, don’t insult me o! So, because the man is 90, I should not

breathe again? Don’t I have a right to disagree with him, or anybody sef? Biggie: You have a right to be abusing someone probably older than your grandpa? Kontinue! This table you’re shaking (on-the-run emojis). But if they yab your god, Bubu, you’ll be foaming in the mouth, crying that he should be respected as an elder and c-in-c... and him never 80 o, officially! S.H.O.T.S: But why should Baba Adebanjo say anybody but Buhari! Because of restructuring? No be so dem trick them for 2014 with anything but GEJ. Skola: No mind the Baba joor. Where and when did we even sit down to appoint them as Yoruba leaders - I didn’t remember voting anybody! So, nobody should use me to make money. Biggie: When they say some people may die young, it is not a curse o. It is self-inflicted! So, these very old activists that have been in the forefront of struggles for egalitarian society... since even before Independence...are making all the sacrifices for monetary motives? Hmmm. That’s a great error in today’s thinking, and to use yourself as a yardstick of morality is a grave disaster to the future of this country. Gaga-B: Bros, leave matter. All this big grammar over what? When you say someone is Atikulated, it doesn’t necessarily mean he’s compromised. It may be the fellow is now a supporter or believer of Atiku. You can be Atikulant, Atikulized, Atikurated, or even be on Atikudol - as in Tramadol. (Several hysterical emojis follow). Ol’boy: But we all know that

Atiku is associated with ceaseless spending for political leveraging... Why did you think he cried when his associates bought his presidential form? He was shocked they could even return 12m naira after his several years of donations! Biggie: Jokes apart, it is rather sad that young minds who should have retired these grand old men by leading the struggles for progressive ideals, are the same ones shamelessly mocking the old soldiers, and questioning their reputations! Mtshewwww....” Several posts of irreverent and disruptive viral links follow...and deluge of swear words, profanity, abuses and reprimands go on and on... soiling the day of delicate minds, and spiking the adrenaline of on-line warriors. Of course, the language and expletives have been moderated, and lexical errors spruced up - but the above “dialogue” is a common spectacle in many of today’s social media platforms (particularly Whatsapp and Telegram). Worse still, the savagery on Twitter as a relentless surge of gore, grime and gaffes...deserves a special feature. We are all familiar with the desperation of the moment - the seeming frustrations of the “working class” engulfed in daily battles to provide for his or her family, keep children in schools (here or there), meet sundry obligations...and yet expect public authorities to fulfill the minimum requirements of their supposed mandates. Frankly, the social fabric of the Nigerian society has been shredded in several portions. We can devote weeks to pointing fingers and apportioning blames, yet we shall be nowhere near closure, months after. Arguments are not activated in

ewabara@yahoo.com, 08055001948

“This may result to (in) fatigue….” “Kenya offers 46 oil blocs (blocks) to Nigerian investors” From The PUNCH we move to THE NATION ON SUNDAY of October 1: “Before the electricity sector can grow, there have to be intense investments into (in) the sector….” “…her love for the big screen in recent time (times) is soaring.” “Its (It’s) girls at war on…” “As many agencies of government and some concerned culture groups device (devise) new (a new) concept of….” ‘Device’ used as a verb is sheer American application! “They did not even pick (take) their phone (phones) to call…. “…it is very difficult to have coaches that have that (those) skills….” “So, he said he is (was) going to Lagos but….” “So, I said, (sic) it is (was) okay.” Finally from Saturday’s edition of THE NATION: “…if there is a way you can invest that money here in Nigeria, you better (you had better) do so.” “Edo sensitizes youth on (to) tax” “It is on the basis of the information that such individual (an individual) would be assessed.” THE GUARDIAN of September 3 misprinted: “End of road for toy gun (toy-gun) robber…” From the metro section to another department of The Guardian of October 5 which nurtured two blunders: “Couldn’t they have impeached him rightly or wrongly on ground (grounds) of incapacity for staying away from office for so long?” “Is it not the problem now, as in the case of late (the late) Umar Musa Yar’Adua….” Last, but not least, is Daily Independent online edition of September 3 with this infraction: “Break up (Break-up/Breakup) in PDP…”

COUNTERPOINT

FEMI

AKINTUNDE-JOHNSON fajalive1@gmail.com 08033622806- (SMS Only)

public space because people want some sort of resolution or clarity. No, we argue in a high and violent tone today to ventilate our frustrations, impotence, and disillusionment. On the other side of the divide, we repudiate negative depositions against our preferred personality - not because we want to sway opponents or convince doubters. It appears our mandate is to decimate any contrary opinion (often wrapped in disparaging, condescending or derisive cotton wool of hate and hubris). Even when our leaders fail us, and the planks of our personal and corporate economies wobble on account of the omission or commission of political actors, Nigerians must return to civility and coherence in social intercourse. Extremism in any form is a self-destructive toga that we must reject. Clearly, we can’t be a great nation when most of us are fairly great in malicious messaging, inglorious petty-swapping and such kill-or-bekilled verbal and textual attrition.” End of quote. Do you share our sense of trepidation at what another ﬁve years would look like? Is it possible that an unpopular but competent rulership with formidable deliverables that stem the poverty and disillusionment in the land be able to curve downward the spiralling angst and anomie of our young population? Perhaps, this wish has nothing to do with a horse. Thank you for reading us these past ﬁve years - may Nigeria thrive in our lifetime. WhatsApp only: 08033150547.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2023 • T H I S D AY, T H E S AT U R D AY N E W S PA P E R

BACKPAGE CONTINUATION

AKINMADE IN THE SADDLE…

L-R: Commissioner, Local Government Service Commission, Koye Ijaduoye; Managing Director, Rockcityfm Abeokuta, Niran Malaolu; newly sworn in Special Adviser on Media to Ogun State Governor, Kayode Akinmade; Governor Dapo Abiodun and Dr. Donald Akinmade at the swearing in ceremony in Abeokuta…yesterday.

WHY I HAVE FAITH IN THE SUPREME COURT “This Court must take the lead, in righting the wrongs in our society, if and when the opportunity presents itself as in this appeal. Allowing criminality and certificate forgery to continue to percolate into the streams, waters and oceans of our national polity would only mean our waters are and will remain dangerously contaminated. The purification efforts must start now, and be sustained as we seek, as a nation, to now ‘change’ from our old culture of reckless impunity. The Nigerian Constitution is supreme. It desires that no one who had ever presented forged certificate to INEC should contest election into Nigeria’s National Assembly. This is clear and sacrosanct. More compelling as a judicial determination had been taken by no less a technical panel sitting in, at least, a panel of three judges as Election Tribunal with constitutional mandate to determine such issues as they relate to elections and its outcomes, including eligibility. This has also been affirmed by the trial Court in this appeal. On these issues, our duty is to apply the Constitution and the law in its start, original form undiluted by ‘colourated’ interpretations.” (Pp 26 - 31 Paras E - B) There is yet another superlative example: “THE POWER OF THE SUPREME COURT TO RECEIVE FRESH EVIDENCE: Section 22 of The Supreme Court Act provides, inter alia, that *“The Supreme Court may, from time to time, make any order necessary for determining the real question in

controversy in the appeal, and may amend any defect or error in the record of appeal, … and generally shall have full jurisdiction over the whole proceedings as if the proceedings had been instituted and prosecuted in the Supreme Court as a court of first instance and may rehear the case in whole or in part or may remit it to the court below for the purpose of such rehearing or may give such other directions as to the manner in which the court below shall deal with the case in accordance with the powers of that court.”* In SENATOR HOSEA EHINLANWO V. CHIEF OLUSOLA OKE & ORS (2008) JELR 48885 (SC), Onnoghen JSC (as he then was) held: “Order 2 Rule 12 (1) of the Supreme Court Rules which guides the court in the applications of this nature provides, thus: “A party who wishes the court to receive the evidence of witnesses (where they were not called at the trial) or to order the production of any document, exhibit or other thing connected with the proceedings in accordance with the provisions of section 33 of the Act shall apply for leave on notice of motion prior to the date set down for the hearing of the appeal.” It is settled law that it is within the discretion of the court to decide whether or not to admit further/additional evidence on appeal. It is also settled that for the court to exercise that discretion one way or the other, it must act not only judicially but also

judiciously. It is in an effort at attaining the standard of exercising its discretion judicially and judiciously that the courts have set down certain principles/conditions as guides. *The principles are: 1) the evidence sought to be adduced must be such that could not have been with reasonable diligence obtained for use at the trial; 2) the evidence should be such that if admitted would have an important, not necessarily crucial effect on the whole case, and, 3) the evidence must be such that it is apparently credible in the sense that it is capable of being believed and it need not be incontrovertible — see UBA Plc v. BTL Ind. Ltd. (2005) 10 NWLR (Pt. 933) 356 at 370–371. The above conditions must co-exist for the court to exercise its discretion in favour of the applicant.”*-SNC-U. Thank God for social media, we are all leaning Law on the go. The world is watching us and our Judiciary in particular. It is sad that our Executive arm of government is already on trial. Our Legislature is considered reckless, unpatriotic and irresponsible by many citizens and non-citizens alike. I do not know why and how they have fallen so low in the eyes of the same electorates who supposedly voted them into the hallowed Chambers. To make matters worse, the Nigerian media, which ordinarily should be the fourth estate of the realm, is also under severe attack of being compromised and divided across ethnic considerations and pecuniary gains by the

government of Nigeria. This is the tragedy of our nation. So, to who then do we turn in this season of anomie? Atiku Abubakar had to approach the American Judiciary before he could unravel what should not take up to one hour to confirm at home, if the government agencies agreed to do their jobs according to international best practices. Even foreign analysts are now painting lurid pictures of Armageddon, the final battle between the good and evil elements in our country. This should worry all of us. The Judiciary today can restore instant global prestige and adulation to our country. The Judges can automatically improve our economy by not kowtowing to the overbearing appurtenances of power, by not delivering technical judgments but being seen to ensure real justice. They can bring back the sinking influence and relevance of their profession. A CBS newsreport that went viral yesterday should tell us that outsiders, apparently, understand the issues at stake more than us, and they appear even more concerned about the impending catastrophe, if adequate care is not taken. The explosive interview was granted by Gregory Copley, an expert in Defense and Foreign Affairs, an Editor and Publisher, to John Batchelor. This brutal analysis of our predicaments is worth listening to, reading, and digesting, if you can find it online... Please, join me, in saying the Lord’s prayer, if you wish...

South East region has remained sidelined in federal developmental projects for decades. The region lacks relevance in the siting of impactful institutions and major drivers of our economic environment. It is mocked by the wretched profile of its most visible political actors. Its sons and daughters in national public positions mostly live to survive their tenures. They sneak off to some recondite and narrow existence, or to their villages, once out of office. Not so for their peers, contemporaries and supposed equals from other parts of the country. Look around you calmly and you must conclude that there is really nothing happening in the South East to warrant serious national human, economic or political traffic in that direction. It boasts the most dilapidated federal roads in the nation. It is the least considered in the new epidemic of rail projects springing up all over the nation. The second Bridge over the Onitsha end of the Niger was on the cards for decades. It became a metaphor for what should have happened immediately after the civil war, but which did not happen. When, finally, approval was given for the Bridge to be built under the PDP government of yore, it turned out to be a Build Operate and Transfer (BOT) arrangement. In other words, the bridge was approved to be built by whoever was willing, able and available to put down his money for it. Yes, the builder will fund the

project and then later recover the money by putting up toll gates on both ends of the new bridge. It is those using the bridge that would pay for the cost of building it; and it was not to be handed over to the government to be used free of cost, until the number of years stipulated as adequate for the builder to recover his cost, along with the accruing profit. And, mind you, there was no case of national bankruptcy; or a dearth of projects of even higher net value being executed all over the nation at the time. But the bridge was still not built. Had it been built as initially planned, it would most probably have been the only spot in the federation where toll gates were erected so that users of a public, land transport facility like a bridge would pay for using it. And this was at a time the federal government banned and dismantled all toll gates in the country. It does not matter now, as observed earlier, that projects of higher value have been, and are still being, built all over the federation at government expense. Only the South East must moan, groan and bleed through the nose for a bridge that should have been constructed over 40 years ago. Work finally commenced on the bridge, thanks to the Buhari government. The euphoria of this “breakthrough” exposed the myopia and infantilism of South East political leadership. An elite that clamoured, and still clamours, for an inland port in Onitsha is blind to the

fact that this new bridge has been deployed as undertaker for the port project. What type of ship will pass under it? With what type of cargo, if any? …. To be fair, there is enough head room for, crabs, swimmers, speedboats and rafts. For good measure, it may even endure a flat-bottomed steamer ferrying sand around the now-dry banks. But that would be all.” Yes, the South East has been in mourning since before, during and after the civil war. The North, on the other hand, has been mourning over the underdevelopment of its human capital, before its situation was roundly compounded by Boko Haram and Banditry. The worst of it all, since the dawn of the Nigerian State, came under President Buhari. His legacy is an economically decimated North, wherein the elite cannot travel on the roads or go home without being hunted by bandits and kidnappers; and where also the hapless masses cannot harvest farm produce, sleep in peace or lead normal lives. Just as the South east still stands out as the most politically diminished of all regions in the Federal Republic of Nigeria, through “deliberate government gymnastics and the political illiteracy of its own ruling elite”, the North is mourning because of its un-strategic engagement while Buhari held sway. How Tinubu will eventually resolve all of the forgoing remains to be seen – as the North mourns.

AS THE NORTH MOURNS East Nigeria is at best a metaphor for nominal and fraudulent citizenship. Its gifted, energetic and bold youths are forced to scavenge around the fringes of morality and legality. That is because they have found themselves in a system that excludes them from what their peers and supposed fellow citizens take as a matter of course; and regard as their entitlement. There is, for people of the South East, an unnamed fear here and a semi-uncertain confusion there. There is also a semi-real trembling yonder. Anon, it is as if there is always some creeping, inexplicable, yet ever-present, but clearly unhealthy, quivering of political and economic nerves. But, being a people resolved not to dissolve under inclement currents and the unrelenting assaults of a merciless state that seems determined to annihilate them, Ndigbo remain resilient in the face of inhuman political and economic odds. But does the rest of the Nigerian federation really know, and to its fullest measure, that thralldom and misery have taken permanent residence in the entire South East? Put differently, does anyone really care what people of that region feel, or do not feel, about everything going on around them – and sometimes in their name? I think not. And that is because everyone has been living with a badly treated South East since after the civil war in 1970. It has become normal to reckon without the people in every way…. It is a matter of fact, and record, that the

Saturday, October 14, 2023

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CAN to FG “Are we saying that the Nigerian state is so helpless to win the war against these enemies of the state? If we as a nation have become so helpless, let us stomach our pride by seeking help elsewhere. Demonstration of political will to root out these criminals from the very root is the solution.”– The Christian Association of Nigeria warning the federal government against negotiating or granting amnesty to terrorists.

PENDULUM Why I Have Faith in the Supreme Court DELE MOMODU

dele.momodu@thisdaylive.com

“We must do what has never been done before. What is the argument on the other side? Only this, that no case has been found in which it has been done before. That argument does not appeal to me in the least. If we never do anything which has not been done before, we shall never get anywhere. The law will stand still while the rest of the world goes on, and that will be bad for both.” Lord Denning, Master of the Rolls (18991999) - Parker Vs Parker.

Since I had a fascination for Law, I privately engaged in picking and reading legal textbooks, especially anything to do with Jurisprudence and a bit of Company Law. I was particularly fascinated by the landmark cases of the iconic Jurist, Lord Denning, and how he broke rank with the traditional rules and previously held presumptions in English Law, by taking the road less travelled. I enjoyed, and relished, his radical views and witticisms. The above quote of Lord Denning is very relevant to my current topic about the Supreme Court of Nigeria. The main reason for my epistle to you today is simple and straightforward. Many Nigerians seem to have given up on our Judiciary. There are at least two monumental cases ongoing at the Supreme Court of Nigeria in the Presidential election appeals that were separately filed by Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi against Bola Tinubu and INEC. Many people have called to ask why my principal, Atiku Abubakar, is wasting his time and resources on pursuing a fruitless case. None of them ever said he never had a good case. They merely gave the usual conspiracy theories as to how corrupt the Judiciary is in Nigeria, as well as the war chest

ellow Nigerians, I’m not a Lawyer. But I’m surrounded by friends who are Lawyers. I enjoyed seeing Lawyers in their wigs and gowns and was tempted to read Law after my first degree at the University of Ife, now Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife. Unfortunately, or fortunately, depending on how you view my trajectory today, my application was bounced by the egg heads at the Faculty of Law, despite my first degree which, in some universities, would have been a prerequisite for my entry into a Law degree program. That is a story

Atiku

for another day. I simply accepted my destiny, with equanimity.

of Bola Tinubu, which he’d never been known to shy away from deploying to maximum advantage. While it may be true that bribery and corruption is of a pandemic status in Nigeria, I still believe there are good people, and Judges, in Nigeria. We should therefore resist this campaign of calumny against our Judges. I have personally thrown this question at Atiku Abubakar a couple of times and he told me very firmly that he believes in the rule of Law. He mentioned how he’s been saved several times by taking his matter to the Judiciary. The doubting Thomases in Nigeria often predicate their skepticism on the fact that no Presidential election appeal has ever succeeded in removing an incumbent President. While this may true, I believe there is always the possibility of a first time in every situation, and this is the origin of statistics. At least, we have the reinvigorating example of Sidi Dauda Bage, a Retired Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria who said in the case of SALEH v. ABAH & ORS (2017) LPELR-41914(SC): Continued on page 31

OKEYIKECHUKWU EDIFYING ELUCIDATIONS

okey.ikechukwu@thisdaylive.com

As the North Mourns

oes President Bola Tinubu have the right, and duty, to make appointments; in the exercise of his powers as president? The answer is yes! Is it his prerogative to determine whom to give what position in government, to the extent that he deems such a person qualified to hold the position? The answer is yes! Is he also duty bound to respect some stipulated provisions for such appointments, given the religious and ethnic plurality of the nation? Again, the answer is yes! We must also ask whether individuals, and groups, who are dissatisfied with his appointments free, and even duty-bound, to raise observations, complaints and objections. It would still be a resounding “yes”! Are such persons best advised to be guided in their reaction by the constitution, political practice and a sense of history. I wager that the answer is a still yes. Now the conversation begins Our people say that someone who is used to being the first to pick from a pack, or pile, of goodies because of his privileged access to whoever is in charge of the picking order will

be the first to cry “abomination” if one day he finds himself forced to queue up like everyone else. Our people also say that the presumed rights of someone who, without any justification other than the fact that he is used to having his way, only exist because of sustained abuse and leadership misconduct. And abuse, once condoned without let or hindrance for a long time becomes the norm; despite the laws, traditions and ways of a people. This is summarized by another Igbo proverb which says that when an abomination is allowed to subsist for years, it becomes tradition. Against the background of the foregoing, let it be said for the record that Bola Tinubu is very far from remotely approximating the dreadful, insensitive and totally ill-advised and extremely exclusivist orientation of former president Muhammadu Buhari in federal appointments. Buhari’s favoured Katsina State, the Fulani and the core North in that order. While it lasted some fair-minded Fulani, and northerners in general, spoke out with displeasure and dismay. They were aghast and scandalized at a trajectory that would not strengthen national cohesion or leave

the North in good standing in national political consciousness. The Buhari tradition of unconscionable myopia subsisted in every sense of the word, to the extent that his main achievement in, and out of, office was to draw sometimes undeserved opprobrium upon his brothers and sisters from the Northern part of the country. But everyone saw the North as “enjoying” under Buhari, in the sense that the notion of inequity was not seen as a matter strongly protested against by that part of the country. It is against the background of the forgoing that the cries of marginalization of the North by Tinubu stands within the context of a nation still in search of its true soul. Yes, the North came out for him. But remember that in 2015 Buhari thanked specific northern states, and the north in general, for a victory everyone else saw delivered mainly by Tinubu and the South West. So, let me re-invite our attention to the observation, in the second paragraph of this article, thus: we must react to our current situation bearing in mind not just the constitution, but also “political practice” and a sense of history. The

constitution has been routinely violated since the dawn of this democracy; with Buhari’s tenure as an unparalleled anomaly in our national history. The political practice has been for our leaders to do as they pleased. Now that the North seems to be, or claims to be on the receiving end, it is screaming that Armageddon is here. Yes, it may be for the North. See what was said about the South East under Buhari on this page on October 25, 2019, under the title “As the South East Mourns”. “South Eastern Nigeria lies prostrate and without dignity today. It has been thus for a long time now. Enveloped by an incubus of snarling befuddlement, the region has become a metaphor for how to exist (without really living) in a federation of supposedly equal partners. It twists and turn piteously in subdued pain. There is an unvoiced gnashing of teeth and a bitter forbearance. Denuded, ridiculed, swindled and roundly scandalised on all fronts by an elaborate pretense at nationhood that has been to its detriment for far too long, South Continued on page 31

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