We won't appeal ICJ's judgment — FG

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...towards a better life for the people VOL. 25: NO. 61727

ONLINE | www.vanguardngr.com

N150

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2012

BAKASSI GONE TO CAMEROON:

We won't appeal ICJ's judgment — FG

BY FINTAN IBEGWAM

DELTA, RIVERS, IMO LOSE MORE GROUND TO FLOOD

Abari, in Delta Ahoada West Local Goverment Area, Rivers State,

Another Ndokwa East community. See more photos on pages 8 & 9

Army in revenge attack as blast kills Army Lieutenant in Maiduguri •P. 6

‘They’ should do something.... who are ‘they’?

•P.17

HE Federal government yesterday sealed Nigeria’s hope of recovering the Bakassi Peninsula, by saying that the government will not appeal the International Court of Justice, (ICJ) judgment of 2002 ceding the Peninsula to Cameroon.

The Minister of Justice in a long statement released last night said that after consultation with experts, the government decided not to pursue the review of the case stating that it will be more damaging to the country diplomatically if she failed in her quest.

Continues on page 5

Yaounde and Maroua declarations in conflict with Anglo-German agreement

Igbide in Delta

Ogbonnaya Amadi: Final journey begins •P. 14

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Police arrest two bank drivers who serve as informants to robbers •P. 44 Nigeria-US Bi-National Commission and Nigeria Security Interests: How to Make the Commission A Win-win Project

•Pp. 34 & 35

Mr & Mrs

2 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2012

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Vanguard, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2012 — 3

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4 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2012

11 DAYS TO GO

Unclaimed voters’ cards: INEC hands staff to police

Oke berates Mimiko over education crisis

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BY DAYO JOHNSON

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S controversies trail the discovery of unclaimed voters’ cards in the hands of some politicians in Ondo State ahead of the election, the State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Akin Orebiyi, said that the electoral official involved had been arrested and would be prosecuted by the police “for dragging the name of the commission into disrepute.”

In a statement in Akure, the commission said a security man attached to the local office of the INEC in Ondo West local government, was last weekend arrested by the police for making available about 1000 unclaimed voters’ cards to some politicians apparently to facilitate unwholesome activities during the gubernatorial election slated for October 20.

Orebiyi, who failed to disclose the identities of the politicians and political parties involved said he had sent a report on the matter to the Abuja headquarters of INEC.

Vigilant residents He said that the suspect was arrested by the police following a tip-off by vigilant residents of the area where the INEC office is located.

Report also had it that a couple was arrested alongside the politicians. Tongues are however wagging following the arrest of the politician and the non disclosure of their identities by INEC and the Police in the state.

Another report said that about 100,000 ballot papers already thumb-printed in favour of a political party were found with the suspects. But Orebiyi denied that ballot papers were part of the documents seized from the suspects.

He said “There is no way anybody could get hold of the ballot papers which are very sensitive materials before the election. I don’t even know how it will look like not to talk of someone having them already thumb-printed.”

The REC said that “save for the voters’ cards and some campaign materials of two of the political parties, no other electoral materials were found in the possession of the suspects.

For purposes of emphasis, no ballot papers were found".

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Prof. Attahiru Jega, INEC Chairman

Fashola better than Tinubu:

Akeredolu hits Mimiko T

HE Akeredolu Campaign yesterday responded to claims by the Mimiko Campaign that Governor Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State is a better governor than his predecessor, the ACN National Leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The Akeredolu Campaign Organisation (ACO) in a statement said the claim by Mimiko was suggestive of a confused politician using deceptive tactics to hoodwink the good people of Ondo to vote for him.

“For us at ACO, this statement has shown the desperation from the drowning Labour Party and Mimiko to cling to power at all costs despite being rejected by the Ondo people as a result of their failure in the last three and half years,” ACO said in a statement issued by its spokesman, Idowu Ajanaku.

Going down memory lane to articulate the achievements of Tinubu in office, the ACO said: “It is a notorious fact that Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a leader of leaders because without Tinubu, Fashola wouldn’t have come to light.

It is also a fact that the achievements, which are being paraded by the iconic progressive Gov. Babatunde Fashola today and which are being acknowledged across the world are as a result of the solid foundation laid by Tinubu in his eight years rule

in Lagos.

Tinubu reinvigorated the internally generated revenue from N600 million to N9 billion monthly before he left office.

“However, the greatest achievement of Bola Tinubu is the ability to identify an able successor in the person of Gov. Fashola.”

EOPLE’S Democratic Par ty, PDP standard bearer in the October 20 governorship polls in Ondo State, has berated the Ondo State Government for the collapse in the education sector of the state.

The Olusola Oke Campaign Organisation, in a statement by Mr. Kunle Adebayo, special adviser on media and publicity, described as unpardonable the situation where all the tertiary institutions in the state have been shut down due to government insensitivity and high handedness.

It also carpeted the government over the refusal to pay secondary schools teachers the 27.5 per cent professional allowance it promised them two years ago. ‘’It is sad that a government which calls itself a caring heart has unleashed draconian regime and outright terrorism on the workers of the state-owned Adekunle Ajasin University and the Rufus Giwa polytechnic. Today, over 3,000 staff of the institutions are on strike while over 8,000 students of the two institutions are left wandering about. In the university, 31 months arrears of staff emoluments are unpaid, promotion stifled while witch hunt and harassment of innocent staff have degraded the excellence and freedom for which the ivory tower is known for, it alleged.”

Mimiko taunts ACN on Ribadu, says you are no democrats THE Mimiko Campaign Organisation, MCO has rebutted allegations of betrayal leveled against Governor Olusegun Mimiko during the three day mega rallies of the ACN. In a statement by its Spokesman, Kolawole Olabisi, MCO rather accused the ACN of betraying the hopes of the people through what it claimed was the conspiracy weaved against its presidential candidate in the last presidential elections, Malam Nuhu Ribadu.

MCO wondered why those who it claimed sold the candidature of their party’s standard bearer for tarnished dross were now crying out that Dr Olusegun Mimiko betrayed them when that had become their second nature.

“Ribadu lost woefully in all but one of the ACN controlled states and when the same man decided to take up an appointment with the Presidency, they shouted themselves blue in the face calling him all sorts of names. Yet they called themselves democrats,” it said.

“Only last Friday, the Kaduna State Chairman of the ACN, Al-

haji Mohammed Soba blew the lid on these leaders whom he accused of selling Ribadu’s candidature for N16billion ($100m).

According to Olabisi, “yet they are quick to say they are demo-

crats and puritans in their posturing whenever it favours them, but when things are not in their favour, they throw tantrums, abusing whoever gets in their way.

Kuku, Mimiko bicker over alleged re-arming of ex-militants

BY DAYO JOHNSON HE Federal Government has been enjoined to call the Special Adviser to the President on Niger Delta, Mr Kingsley Kuku, to order over his activities in the riverine areas of Ondo State which are allegedly inimical to the October 20 Governorship election. Kuku who is Ijaw, hails from Ese-Odo in the Southern Senatorial District of Ondo State.

The Mimiko Campaign yesterday alleged that the Presidential Adviser was using his position of overseeing the Amnesty Programme of the Federal Government to subvert the election in favour of his political party, the Peoples Demo-

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cratic Party (PDP).

Specifically, the MCO accused him of arming ex-militants some of whom have been brought from other adjoining Niger Delta states and were now being used to intimidate those perceived to be opposed to the candidature of the PDP’s standard bearer, Mr Olusola Oke and removing the names of those opposed to his agenda from the payroll.

Countering the allegation, Kuku asked the Ondo State government not to drag the amnesty programme into the politics of the state, that his good deeds were enough to attract votes for the PDP

Vanguard, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2012—5

POCKET CARTOON

We won't appeal ICJ's judgment Continues from Page 1

Adoke’s release entitled, statement of Bakassi stated that: It will be recalled that on 10th October 2002, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) delivered judgment in Land and Maritime Boundary between Cameroon and Nigeria, which covers about 2000 kilometres extending from Lake Chad to the Sea. It will also be recalled that before the judgment was delivered, President Olusegun Obasanjo, GCFR of Nigeria and President Paul Biya of the Republic of Cameroon gave their respective undertaking to the international community to abide by the judgment of the Court.

The commitment and undertakings given by both Heads of Government were confirmed by the establishment of the Cameroon-Nigeria Mixed Commission (CNMC) pursuant to the Joint Communiqué adopted at a Summit Meeting on 15 November 2002 in Geneva. The CNMC is composed of the representatives of Cameroon, Nigeria and the United Nations and is chaired by the Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary General for West Africa.

The CNMC has held 29 Sessions since its inception and has peace-

fully, amicably and successfully: (a) Brought Cameroon and Nigeria back to negotiation table; (b) Supervised the handing over of 33 ceded villages to Cameroon and 1 to Nigeria in December, 2003 and received 3 settlements and territory in Adamawa and Borno States Sectors from Cameroon in 2004; (c) Initiated the Enugu-Abakiliki-MamfeMutengene Road project as part of the confidence building measures between the two countries; (d) Supervised peaceful withdrawal of Civil Administration, Military and Police Forces and transfer of authority in the Bakassi Peninsula by Nigeria to Cameroon in 2008 in line with the modalities contained in the Greentree Agreement signed by Cameroon and Nigeria in 2006 which the United Nations, Germany, USA, France, UK and Northern Ireland witnessed; and (e) Commenced the emplacement of boundary beacons/pillars along the land boundary and initiated final mapping of the whole stretch of the boundary. It is instructive to note that about 1800 kilometres of the boundary have so far been assessed for Pillar Emplacement leav-

LIFEWORDS

BY PASTOR ITUAH

B

E courageous enough not to let opportunity pass you by; your only alternative will be to succeed. Invest your most valuable resource, your time, into your most important possession, LIFE. Spend each minute purposefully, making today a unique opportunity. With God’s help you will overcome.

TAKE HEART

BY ELLA RANDLE

“A beautiful consciousness is constantly renewed with loving thoughts and deed. It is refined and replenished with a higher energy each time we let our actions be guided by divine love.” —E. R. Randle.

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lady came into a photo studio for the collection of her photographs, the artist had enhanced it to look brighter and more reflective. To my amazement, this lady took one look at her photos and gave a whooping dance of joy and exclaimed over and over again.” I am beautiful. I am beautiful.”

It was like the very first time she was seeing herself through the eyes of Soul. I was startled a bit, and realised it is a blessing to know who I am and when I look at the mirror what I see is the real being, Soul a divine light of God. With god-like attributes of divine love, power of love and freedom. And this brings me constantly to a greater awareness and appreciation of life.

Someday, this lady may realise that the beauty she had recognized is the awareness of her true divinity.

It extends beyond the outer form. It may have taken an enhanced photo to open her heart to this reality but a person’s first insight to this realisation leads to a greater confidence in life.

ing only about 220 km to complete the assessment of the entire boundary.

The Greentree Agreement was also signed by H. E. Paul Biya, and President President Olusegun Obasanjo GCFR, on 12 June, 2006, in Long Island, Greentree, New York, USA; reaffirming their willingness to peacefully implement the judgment of the ICJ. The Agreement contains the modalities for withdrawal and transfer of authority in the Bakassi Peninsula by Nigeria to Cameroon in pursuance of the ICJ Judgment. The Follow-Up Committee comprising representatives of Nigeria and Cameroon was established to monitor the implementation of the Agreement and settle any dispute regarding the interpretation and implementation of the Agreement. Nigeria handed over the Bakassi Peninsula to Cameroon in 2008.

The Statute of the International Court of Justice provides that the Judgment of the Court is final and without appeal. However, following the Resolutions of both Houses of the National Assembly calling on the Executive to take steps to apply for a review of the judgment, His Excellency, President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR called a Stakeholders meeting comprising the leadership of the National Assembly, the Governors of Akwa-Ibom and Cross River States, the Members of the National Assembly from both States, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, the Honourable Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, the Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs and Director General, National Boundary Commission to review the situation.

The Stakeholders Meeting after due deliberations constituted a Committee comprising of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, the Attorney General of the Federation, the Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs, Director General, National Boundary Commission and Members of the National Assembly namely: Senator Victor Ndoma Egba, SAN, CON, Hon. Dr. Ali Ahmed and Hon Nnena Ukaje to examine all the issues in contention and available options for Nigeria including, but not limited to the application for review of the ICJ Judgment, appropriate political and diplomatic solutions.

Although the judgment of the ICJ is final and not subject to appeal, the ICJ Statute provides for cir-

cumstances under which its judgment can be reviewed. The relevant provisions are: (a) Article 61 (1) which provides that the Court can review its judgment upon the discovery of some fact of such a nature as to be a decisive factor, which fact was, when the judgment was given, unknown to the court and also to the party claiming revision, always provided that such ignorance was due not to negligence; (b) Article 61 (4) which stipulates that application for revision must be made at least within six months of the discovery of the new fact, and (c) Article 61(5), provides that no application for revision may be made after the lapse of ten years from the date of the judgment.

The implication of the above provisions of the ICJ Statute is that a case for revision of the judgment of the court can only be successful if: (a) The application for revision is based on the discovery of a new fact; (b) The fact must have existed prior to the delivery of the judgment; (c) The newly discovered fact must be of a decisive nature; and (d) The party seeking revision (Nigeria) and the Court, must not have known of the fact at the time of the delivery of the judgment.

The Committee proceeded to examine the case for revision against the requirements of Article 61 of the ICJ Statute and was constrained to observe from the oral presentations made to it by the proponents of the revision that the strict requirements of Article 61 could not be satisfied.

This is because their presentation was unable to show that Nigeria has discovered a decisive fact that was unknown to her before the ICJ judgment, which is capable of swaying the Court to decide in its favour. This is more so as most of the issues canvassed in sup-

port of the case for a revision of the ICJ judgment had been canvassed and pronounced upon by the ICJ in its 2002 judgment.

The Federal Government also retained a firm of international Legal Practitioners to advice on the merits and demerits of the case for revision.

The firm after considering all the materials that were placed at its disposal against the requirements of Article 61 of the ICJ Statute came to the reasoned conclusion that “an application for a review is virtually bound to fail“ and that “a failed application will be diplomatically damaging to Nigeria”.

In view of the foregoing, the Federal Government is of the informed view that with less than two days to the period when the revision will be statute barred (9th October, 2012), it would be impossible for Nigeria to satisfy the requirements of Articles 61(1) (5) of the ICJ Statute.

Government has therefore decided that it will not be in the national interest to apply for revision of the 2002 ICJ Judgment in respect of the Land and Maritime Boundary between Cameroon and Nigeria.

Government is however concerned about the plight of Nigerians living in the Bakassi Peninsula and the allegations of human rights abuses being perpetrated against Nigerians in the Peninsula and is determined to engage Cameroon within the framework of the existing im-

plementation mechanisms agreed to by Nigeria and Cameroon in order to protect the rights and livelihoods of Nigerians living in the Peninsula. Nigeria will also not relent in seeking appropriate remedies provided by international law such as the invocation of the compulsory jurisdiction of the ICJ; Petitioning the United Nations Human Rights Council and good offices of the United Nations Secretary General which has played pivotal role in ensuring the peaceful demarcation and delimitation of the boundary between the two countries and other confidence building measures and calls on the United Nations to continue to provide assistance to the affected populations.

Finally the Federal Government wishes to assure all Nigerians especially the people living in the Bakassi Peninsula of its determination to explore all avenues necessary to protect their interests including but not limited to negotiations aimed at buying back the territory, if feasible, the convening of bilateral meeting of the Heads of State and Government to ensure protection and development of the affected population. In the meantime, we call on all well meaning Nigerians in the Bakassi peninsula to be law abiding and to allow the various initiatives being undertaken by the Federal Government to bear fruitful results.

Mass defection looms in Adamawa PDP — Stakeholders

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BUJA- ELDERS, leaders and stakeholders of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, yesterday, stormed the National Secretariat of the Party, warning that if the National Chairman, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, fails to intervene in the political crisis in the state, the party stands the risk of members dumping the PDP.

According to them, the national leadership of the party must address what they described as the problem the party leadership the state is having.

The faction headed by Chief Medan Teneke and led by Sen. Paul Wampana visited the National Working Committee (NWC) members at the party national sec-

retariat to state their complaints.

According to the immediate past national vice chairman, North East, Senator Paul Wampana, PDP in the state will not be party to illegality, adding that it appreciated the national leadership of the party for the bold decision it took in cancelling the primaries held in the 226 wards of the state.

6—Vanguard, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2012

Fuel fraud: EFCC to arraign four more suspects

BY SONI DANIEL

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DECORATION: President Goodluck Jonthan (right) assisted by Vice President Namadi Sambo (left) decorates the Chief of Defence Staff, Vice Admiral Ola Ibrahim, with his new rank of Admiral in Abuja, yesterday. Photo:State House.

Army in revenge attack as blast kills Army Lieutenant in Maiduguri Over 30 civilians killed, 100 houses, shops razed Canada to train Nigerian security agents on terrorism

BY NDAHI MARAMA & JOSEPH ERUNKE with Agency reports

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AIDUGURI — SOLDIERS, angry about the killing of an officer, shot dead more than 30 civilians, yesterday in Maiduguri, long under siege by a radical Islamist sect.

The attack came from soldiers attached to a special military unit on guard in Maiduguri, the spiritual home of the sect known as Boko Haram, in an effort to supposedly protect its citizens from the violence gripping the city.

The killings likely will further antagonize a population already alienated by checkpoints, security force harassment and the threat of being killed by soldiers who are targets for the sect’s increasingly bloody guerrilla attacks.

Meanwhile, Nigeria and Canada have resolved to cooperate to enhance the operational capabilities of Nigerian security services to enable them respond adequately to internal and regional security challenges.

A reporter in Maiduguri counted the dead while on a tour of the still-smoldering neighborhood, yesterday afternoon. The journalist saw no weapons or evidence that the dead belonged to the sect. A soldier nearby, who did not identify himself, claimed the attack was a response to a bombing nearby earlier, yesterday, that he said killed a lieutenant.

“They killed our officer!” the soldier shouted. “We

had no options!”

The reporter also saw that soldiers had set fire to about 50 homes and businesses around the area, which sits near the Nigerian Union of Journalists, NUJ, state office and other buildings in Maiduguri. It appeared the soldiers attacked the area using assault rifles and heavy machine guns mounted on armored personnel carriers. Rounds shot from the heavy machine guns destroyed cars and set roofs on fire, which razed buildings and caused damage at a twostory shopping complex.

The journalist accompanied Zanna Umar Mustapha, the deputy governor of Borno State, on the tour. State officials declined to comment about the killings and urged those travelling with the convoy not to take photographs of the destruction out of fear of further alienating those living in the region.

The military has been accused of committing socalled “extrajudicial killings” while in pursuit of the Boko Haram sect. The military now routinely claims massive operations with dozens of people killed, always referred to as Boko Haram members or sympathizers, announcements that cannot be independently verified.

The military also downplays its own casualties suffered during the operations.

Lt. Col. Sagir Musa, a spokesman for the military force in the city, declined to immediately comment about the retaliatory attack.

Earlier in the day, he had

said that two soldiers were wounded in the bombing.

Col. Mohammed Yerima, a military spokesman in Abuja, did not immediately respond to a request for comment last night.

Canada to train Nigerian security agents A communiqué released to newsmen said the agreement was reached at an inaugural Nigeria and Canada Bi-National Commission meeting in Abuja, yesterday.

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Olugbenga Ashiru, according to the

communiqué, signed on behalf of Nigeria while Canadian Minister of Foreign Affairs, John Baid, signed for his country.

“While recognizing that lasting security demands a multi-level approach, including development, education, democracy and human rights, both countries resolved to effectively cooperate particularly to enhance the operational capabilities of the Nigeria Security Services to enable them to respond adequately to internal and regional security challenges,” the communiqué read.

BUJA — THE Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, will today arraign another set of four fuel subsidy suspects in Abuja over the alleged fraudulent claim of N1,051,030,434,63 from the government.

The suspects, who are to appear before Justice Adebukola Banjoko of the FCT High Court on a 17count charge are AIhaji Saminu Rabiu, Jubril Rowaye, Alminnur Resources Limited and Brila Energy Limited.

Acting Head of Media and Publicity in EFCC, Mr. Wilson Uwujaren, confirmed the development last night.

The suspects are alleged

Tears as CDS hands over to CNS

BY KINGSLEY OMONOBI

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BUJA — FOLLOWING the decoration of the Service Chiefs and the Chief of Defence Staff by President Goodluck Jonathan, yesterday, and their subsequent assumption of office, a mild drama evolved at the Naval Headquarters when the outgoing Chief of Naval Staff and new CDS, Admiral Ola Sa’ad Ibrahim, burst into tears while reading his

Police brutality: Court awards journalist N100m damages

BY IKECHUKWU NNOCHIRI

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BUJA — AN Abuja High Court sitting in Apo, Abuja has awarded N100 million as damages in favour of one Desmond Utomwen, a Senior Correspondent with TheNews Magazine, who was on December 11, 2009, brutalised by men of the Nigeria Police Force, NPF. The court which was presided over by Justice U. P. Kekemeke, maintained that the attack, the beating to unconsciousness, bundling into Police vehicle and detention of the applicant for many hours without access to medical treatment, was inhuman and degrading and thus amounted to a violation of his right as enshrined in Section 34 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal

Republic of Nigeria.

Specifically, Utomwen had gone before the court to enforce his fundamental human right, after he was severely beaten by policemen when he attempted to cover a protest that broke out at Garki Area 3, Abuja, in 2009.

Sequel to the inhumane treatment meted against him by policemen dispatched to quell the crisis, Utomwen, among other things, sought a declaration “that the forceful collection of one digital camera, one digital recorder, TheNEWS magazine official identity card, cash of N2,000.00 all belonging to the 1st Applicant by the 1st to 6thRespondents who are agents of the 7th to 9th Respondents on the 11th day of December, 2009 amount to forceful acquisition of the

to have fraudulently claimed the said amount from the Petroleum Support Fund over the supply of 10,000 metric tonnes of Premium Motor Spirit, PMS. The commission had last Friday arraigned 13 suspects before a court in Lagos on similar charges.

They were Aro Samuel Bamidele, Abiodun Kayode Bankole, Ifeanyi Anosike, Emeka Chukwu, Ngozi Ekeoma, Alhaji Adamu Aliyu Maula, George Ogbonna and Emmanuel Morah.

The five companies involved are A.S.B. Investment Company Limited, Anosyke Group of Companies Limited, Dell Energy Limited, Downstream Energy Sources Limited and Rocky Energy Limited.

Applicant’s property and a violation of the 1st Applicant right to own moveable property as enshrined in Section 44 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Though Justice Kekemeke concluded hearing on the matter on July 12, however, in his judgment dated October 4, the judge agreed with Counsel to the Applicants, Mr Ugochukwu Ezekiel from Keyamo’s Chambers, that the actions of the Respondents amounted to a violation of the reporter’s right to freedom from inhuman and degrading treatment, right to own moveable and immoveable property and right to freedom of the press and expression as enshrined in sections 34, 39, and 44 of the 1999 constitution.

speech to herald his hand over to the new CNS, Vice Admiral Dele Joseph Ezeoba.

Senior officers at the occasion, invited guests including wife of the new CDS, parents of the new CNS and members of the media were stunned when minutes into his speech, Ibrahim paused and started shedding tears only for him to say later that he was "only human and being emotional."

Vanguard gathered, however, that the CDS tears may not be unconnected with media reports alleging that the new CNS was unfairly treated by the administration of his predecessor to the extent that one of the best officers ever produced by the Navy had been in ‘Siberia’ until he was called to take over as CNS. In his address, however, Admiral Ibrahim noted that he had no doubt in his mind that the new CNS was capable of taking the Nigerian Navy to a higher level, pointing out that the Navy had been a victim of negative perception.

He called on his successor to "keep the Navy family together" for achievement of better results.

Responding, Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Dele Ezeoba, who also shed tears, said he was emotional about the occasion, noting that he was going to make discipline in the service his watchword.

He noted:“We must shape up or ship out."

Vanguard, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2012 — 7

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8—Vanguard, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2012

FLOOD DISASTER SACKS NIGER DELTA

Asaba-Ase, Delta State. PHOTOS: Akpokona Omafuaire.

Displaced in Asaba-Ase, Delta State.

The sitting room of a flat at Abari community of Patani Council, Delta State.

Abari community, Delta State.

Flood: Edo govt lauded on relief effort

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Igbide community, Delta State.

ENIOR Special As sistant to Edo State Governor on Public Affairs, Mr. Henry Okpamen, has commended Governor Adams Oshiomhole and the State Emergency Relief Agency for acting speedily and distributing relief materials to victims of the flood disaster which sacked several communities in Edo State.

Briefing newsmen in Benin, Okpamen said he was overwhelmed by the level of destruction in the communities.

Okpamen sympathised with the affected communities and assured that the state government was doing everything to contain the situation.

Abandoned.

Uzere, Delta State.

Displaced in Asaba-Ase.

Vanguard , TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2012—9

FLOOD DISASTER SACKS NIGER DELTA

Searching for survivors at Abari, Delta State.

Oguta, Imo State.

Submerged.

Asaba-Ase, in Ndokwa, Delta State.

Photo: Akpokona Omafuaire

Iwelle community of Ndokwa, Delta State.

Iberemi community, Delta State.

Flood sacks 50 Isoko communities in Delta

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Mr. Dominic Egelibe and family displaced at Asaba-Ase.

S A B A — S E C R E TARY to Delta State Government, Mr. Ovuzuorie Macaulay, said, yesterday, that more than 50 communities had been submerged by flood in Isoko Local Government Area of the state.

Macaulay made the announcement in Asaba after inspecting the affected communities.

He confirmed that more than 6,500 adults were so far evacuated and registered in temporary camps in the local government.

The SSG, who had earlier briefed the people on the efforts of the

government on the flood disaster, said that since the crisis began, the state had set up five temporary camps in Isoko.

Macaulay said that two of the camps were located at Ozoro, headquarters of Isoko North, another two at Oleh in Isoko South and one other at Irri in the same local government area.

He explained that there was an ongoing operation to evacuate more people from the affected communities.

He said that more than 4,000 adults were already living in the camps while more were still being evacuated.

Mr. Francis Seibibo, immediate past Chairman of Abari community, displaced.

10—Vanguard, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2012

Ekiti teachers shun govt’s competency test

BY GBENGAARIYIBI

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L- R: Rotn. Adegoke Adeoye, Secretary of Rotary Club of Isolo and Rotn.

David Emelike, President, presenting wheel chair to young Femi Oduntan, damaged spinal cord patient, with the parents, Mrs. Oduntan and Mr. Joseph Oduntan,at their home at Bariga, Lagos. Photo: Diran Oshe

Senate committee queries Ibadan varsity over finances

BY OLA AJAYI

IBADAN — THE Senate Committee on Education has handed down a 14-day ultimatum to the authorities of the University of Ibadan to give vivid explanation on its financial activities since 2011.

The committee led by Senator Uche Chukwumerijie gave the directive during its visit to the university as part of its oversight function.

According to the committee, a review of the recurrent expenditure showed that “telephone charges has no provision in 2011 budget. We require detail explanation in writing to the committee within the stipulated period of two years”, he said.

He added that the committee was yet to be

kept abreast of the activities of the institution on Internally Generated Revenue and other sources such as intervention funds, loans and grants, the international school and the zoo have not been captured in the document.”

Other members of the committee, Senators Abubakar Bagudu and Oluremi Tinubu supported their chairman.

In her own words, Tinubu said, “ I am, for instance, interested in the condition of the zoo.

UI should be the pride of the nation”.

As for Bagudu, he said, “We have been to other universities in the country. The IGR for some universities like Ahmadu Bello University and University of Lagos are much higher when compared to that of UI.

DO EKITI — Majority of teachers in Ekiti State yesterday shunned the competency test organised by the state government as only a few of them showed up at the special designated centres At the two centres in Ola Oluwa Muslim Grammar School, Ado Ekiti and African Church Comprehensive High School, Ikere Ekiti, none of the members of the Nigeria Union of Teachers, NUT, were seen at the centres, while only the executive members of the Academic Staff Union of Secondary Schools, ASUSS, led by its chairman, Mr. Sola Adigun showed up.

BEOKUTA — THE Ogun Police Command on Monday held a meeting with representatives of more than 40 communities and interests groups on how to effectively police the state.

A correspondent of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), who observed the meeting, reports that members of Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) from the 20 local government areas of the state, were also in attendance.

Speaking at the occasion, the C M Y K

Commissioner of Police, Mr. Ikemefuna Okoye, said that the meeting became imperative as the command was poised to serve the people of the state better.

“This meeting is to discuss grey areas in our relationship, and fashion out a way forward.

“It is also for you to tell us how we are doing, and if there is any areas you want us to improve on, please, feel free to let us know about it.

“Effective policing cannot be achieved without the collaboration

Ekiti, where over 3,000 secondary school teachers were to converge for the examination, only 35 were present, while only 28 were seen writing the TDNA, about 3, 000 of them did not show up.

Reacting to the development, the state Commissioner for Education, Dr. Eniola Ajayi, vowed that the defiant teachers would regret their actions.

Her words: “They will surely beg to write the examination...”

Also, the state chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, had described Fayemi’s hard posture on TDNA, as a stumbling block that would further affect the standard of education in the state negatively.

NBC threatens to suspend Adaba FM, Ondo Radio-vision licences A

BUJA — THE N a t i o n a l B r o a d c a s t i n g Commission (NBC) on Monday asked ‘ADABA’ FM, Akure and Ondo State Radio-vision Corporation, to desist forthwith from u n w h o l e s o m e programming or face sanctions.

In a statement released in Abuja yesterday, “NBC noted with grave concern, the unprofessional conduct of Continental Broadcasting Services Ltd, operators of ADABA FM, Akure and the Ondo State Radio-vision Corporation, OSRC, in the on-going governorship campaigns in Ondo State”.

According to the

statement, signed NBC’s Director General, Mr. Yomi Bolarinwa, the two stations have breached the provisions of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code.

The code states that, “in adherence to the principles of pluralism, equal airtime shall be provided to all political parties, with particular regard to the amount of time during political

of the citizens. You live among those suspects and we know how helpful your useful information can be,” he said.

Okoye assured participants at the meeting that more armoured personnel carrier (APC) would be deployed to strategic locations in not too distance future.

While stressing the need for all motorists in the state to have their vehicles registered, he encouraged participants to direct their complaints against any member of

campaign periods”.

However, in spite of several warnings and admonitions, one of the stations has continued to exhibit bias in political coverage and broadcast of political jingles in favour of a political party, the statement stated.

The other station which was also recently fined and has paid N400,000 for persistent violations of the provisions of the

code, has allegedly continued the transmission of ‘Elaloro’, an offensive content, which "poses a threat to law and order in Ondo State.

“The Commission wishes to put it on record, that it will not hesitate to suspend the broadcast licences of both stations, should they continue to breach the code,” the statement said.

Hoodlums chase members away from PDP Secretariat, Abeokuta gun-wielding hoodlums believed to be political BEOKUTA — thugs chased away PANDEMONIUM leaders and members of broke out in Abeokuta the Peoples Democratic yesterday, when some Party, PDP, from 20 local government areas of Ogun State, preventing them from gaining access to the party the police command to Secretariat for the his office. monthly stakeholders The Public Relations Officer of the Vigilance meeting .

The hoodlums Service of Ogun, Mr. numbering about 10 had Soji Ganzalo, who positioned themselves commended the command for being within the Secretariat proactive, urged before the arrival of the policemen to come out members of the party with a three-digit toll free loyal to Bayo Dayo-led faction and charged at number.

He expressed them from inside the optimism that the building, threatening to number would make it shoot them with their easier for residents to pump action and double reach the police barrel guns.

Journalists and few command in times of security operatives emergency or crisis in present at the scene their respective areas. had to take cover during

BY DAUD OLATUNJI

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Police partner Ogun communities on effective policing

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The issue of competency test otherwise tagged Teachers Development Needs Assessment, TDNA, has created a big gulf between the state government and the teachers, as the teachers had on two different occasions stayed away from the test.

Realising that government was bent in conducting the test the NUT instructed its members to stay away through radio announcements in Ado Ekiti However, the position was later countered by ASUSS, as its leadership had instructed its members to prepare to write the test through a text messages.

For instance, at Olaoluwa Muslims Grammar School, Ado

the melee.

The aggrieved members who had stormed the Ogun State PDP Secretariat located on the Presidential Boulevard, Abeokuta as early as 7:30a.m., staged a protest by carrying placards with various inscriptions, such as “Enough is enough”, “Obasanjo, stop destroying PDP for your godson”, “ we say no to Jankara politics,” and “Oyinlola, allow peace to reign in Ogun PDP,” among others.

It would be recalled that, a faction of the party loyal to former President Olusegun Obasanjo last week reportedly seized the party Secretariat from Dayo faction, which had been in charge of the Secretariat.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2012—11

Senator presents relief materials to victims in 7 Delta communities

BY VICTOR AHIUMA-YOUNG

S

ENATOR repre senting Delta North in the National Assembly, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, has presented food items and cash to victims of flood disaster in seven communities in Delta North Senatorial District of the state.

Presenting the food items and cash to the communities, which included Aboh, Omelugboma, Power line, Elemechele, Ogbe Ofun, Okocha/Nnebisi and to

those taking refuge at Saint Patrick's College relief camp, Okowa commiserated with the victims.

He described the flood as a monumental national disaster, noting that his donation was to help ameliorate the plight of the victims, and advised them to remain calm.

Speaking, some of the victims who benefitted from Okowa’s gesture, commended him for identifying with them in their moment of trial and grief. They urged him to sustain the gesture.

Radioactive material users, NNRA on warpath over charges COMMISSIONING: Governor Chibuike Amaechi of Rivers State (middle) during the commissioning of Indorama PET Plant in Port Harcourt, yesterday.

Flood sacks 100 communities in Rivers

BY JIMITOTA ONOYUME

P

ORT HAR COURT— NO fewer than 100 communities have so far been taken over by flood in Rivers State.

Commissioner for Information and Communication, Mrs. Ibim Semenitari, who addressed newsmen, added that 12 committees, headed by the deputy governor, Mr. Tele Ikiru, had been set up to assist victims.

One of the buildings submerged by the flood in the state was the palace of the traditional ruler of Ekpeye Kingdom, His Majesty, Eze Robinson.

Several houses in Odiereke Ubie community, Ahoada West Local Government Area, where his palace is located, had also been taken over by flood. Other villages affected in the area were

Ombor, Ikodu, Olokuma Ihulechi and Ubeta.

Meantime, Secretary General, Ekpeye Youth Congress, Mr. Eketu Oliver, who spoke to Vanguard on the development, appealed to the state and Federal Governments to take urgent measures to cushion the pains of victims. He said so far, no fewer than 49 villages had been affected by the flood.

He enjoined governments at all levels to come to the aid of those affected, adding that a camp should also be set up for them.

Victims of the flood disaster have, however, been assured of timely response by the state government. State Commissioner for Information, Mrs. Semenitari, said camps would be set up in all the affected

Flood victims opt for rehabilitation camps

BY EMMA AMAIZE

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ARRI—VICTIMS of the ravaging flood in Delta State say they prefer to remain at the rehabilitation camps set up by the state government rather than return to their submerged homes.

Some of the victims who spoke to Vanguard, said they lost their homes and

all their belongings, adding that going back to their submerged communities was not their immediate desire, as they did not know what might happen next.

Mr. John Ogbodu, who was sacked with his family from his home at Igbide community, said: “I am now a refugee with seven members of my family, but it is better to be

Omo-Agege donates food items to flood natural disaster that had victims in Delta taken toll on the socio-ecoBY FESTUS AHON

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G H E L L I — FORMER Secretary to Delta State Government, Chief Ovie Omo-Agege, has donated 100 bags of rice, salt, noodles and other food items to flood victims in Uwheru Kingdom, Ughelli North Local Government Area of

communities for victims, adding that relief materials would also be urgently provided to cushion their pains.

She said: “No fewer than 100 communities have been affected by the unfortunate incident, and the state executive council has constituted a committee chaired by the deputy governor to put in place measures that would guarantee the safety of our people."

the state.

Ohoro, Agadama, Owarovwo, Ogode, Uvwruche, Ophororo, Iwhregbo, Iwhreana and Iwhreure, in Uwheru kindgom, with over 3,000 residents, had been submerged by flood.

Presenting the items, Chief Omo-Agege described the flood as a

nomic lives of the victims.

He thanked the state government for its timely response to the plights of the displaced persons in Ughelli North council and other parts of the state.

Sympathizing with the victims, he urged them to move into the camp set up in Uwheru main town by the state government, adding that the camp was for their safety.

alive in the government camp than to sleep in my house and be washed away by flood.”

Victims at Saint Michael's College Rehabilitation Camp in Isoko commended the state government for evacuating them to the camp and called for the provision of more relief materials.

National Coordinator of Forum for Justice and Human Rights Defence, Mr. Oghenejabor Ikimi, whose group visited some of the flood victims, told Vanguard that the victims preferred the rehabilitation camps to their swamped villages.

Most of the victims also praised their representative at Delta State House of Assembly, Chief Benjamin Essien, for providing boats and lorries to ferry them from their submerged villages to safety, and providing food stuffs and relief materials since their arrival in the camp.

••Our fees are reasonable and backed by law-DG would spend up to

By SONI DANIEL, Assistant Editor

C

OMPANIES and in dividuals deploying radioactive equipment and other materials for oil production and health services in Nigeria have kicked against what they consider as excessively high charges levied them by the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority, NNRA. Radioactive materials are used primarily in Nigeria in oil production rigs and in medical laboratories across the country.

The aggrieved persons and organisations specifically want President Goodluck Jonathan to order the regulatory agency to stop further imposition of inexplicable charges on them so as not to push them out of business and add to the high unemployment rate in Nigeria.

In the petition, which was made available to Vanguard, yesterday, the stakeholders lamented that their business had almost been crippled by the unjustified and excessive high fees being imposed on them by the NNRA. They accused the agency of being obsessed “with excessive, unrealistic and unjustifiable fees on its emergence, coming up with multiple fees for same service broken up into as many pieces as possible just to extort money from the clients."

They pointed out that as a result of the new fees regime imposed on them, a member who runs an X-ray department would need at least N2,000,000 to obtain NNRA licence to be able to import and operate its machines while those using CT scanning machines

N4,000.000 to import and operate every two years.

They argued that even though the law setting up the NNRA empowered it to prescribe certain fees payable for its services, its major function was to assist Nigeria in the safe use of radioactive substances.

Part of the petition read, “Nowhere in the Act setting up the NNRA does the Government mandate NNRA to stop Nigerians from using radioactive substances through prohibitive fees or to use its powers to destroy every other aspect of the economy and especially the current local content initiatives of the Federal Government, or worse, grind the oil industry to a halt.

“It is pertinent to state for the record, that in all democracies, whenever decisions affecting a segment of the economy are to be taken, a public hearing ought to be conducted to ascertain its merits and demerits, acceptability or otherwise. It is also a cardinal principle of the fair hearing rule that the other party must be heard before decisions affecting the party would be taken by anybody with respect for democratic norms. We wish, therefore, to state that the high-handed increment, therefore, is suffocating, arbitrary, oppressive and inhuman, and tantamount to sheer economic sabotage for very selfish reasons not justifiable by any argument, no matter how tenuous."

But the Acting Director General of the NNRA, Dr. Martin Ogharandukun, dismissed the allegation of high fees by the end users as untenable, arguing that the charges were reasonable and approved by law.

12—Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2012

Be firm on corruption, IG urged

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ARRI —WOMEN of Ugborodo community in Warri SouthWest Local Government Area of Delta State, under the aegis of Ugborodo Home Ladies, have appealed to the Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Mohammed Abubakar, to be firm in the handling of all alleged corruption cases in view of the fact that the phenomenon of corruption has been largely responsible for the underdevelopment and social crises that have characterised the different parts of Nigeria, particularly the oil bearing

UNIPORT KILLINGS: Soldiers parading one of the suspects who allegedly took part in the killing of four students of the University of Port Harcourt.

UNIPORT killings: VC declares 7 days mourning

BY JIMITOTA ONOYUME

P

ORT HAR COURT—UNIVERSITY of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, has declared seven days of mourning for three of its students killed by irate mobs at Omokere-Aluu community, Friday, last week.

Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Joseph Ajienka, who spoke to newsmen, yesterday, at the main campus of the university, described the killing of the students as a horrendous crime.

Stressing that the university would not tolerate any act of jungle justice, he commiserated with the bereaved families. He said the university had to suspend its students’ union week, which was to have commenced yesterday, in honour of the deceased students and also de-

clared seven days mourning period, which would end on Sunday.

He said the three deceased persons confirmed to be students of the university were Biringa Lordson, a year two Theatre Arts student; Ugonna Obuzor, a year two Geology student and Mike Toku, a year two Civil Engineering student.

He said the fourth person killed alongside the other three was Tekena Erikena, adding that ef-

forts were still on to confirm if he was a student of the university.

The Vice Chancellor said though the university had declared seven days mourning period for the deceased students, which took off yesterday, the university was still in session.

He dismissed allegations in some quarters that students of the university were mobilizing to storm Omokere-Aluu community, where the killing took place on a reprisal attack.

Oshiomhole asks Tribunal to dismiss Major-General AirhiaAirhiavbere’s petition vbere (petitioner) had, in

BY SIMON

EBEGBULEM

B

ENIN—EDO State Election Petitions Tribunal sitting in Benin City, has reserved ruling for today on two applications filed before it

at its resumed hearing, yesterday, in the case filed by the candidate of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Major-General Charles Airhiavbere, against the election of Mr. Adams Oshiomhole as governor of Edo State.

Resolve A-Ibom, Abia boundary issues, Ekere urges NBC

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EPUTY Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Nsima Ekere, weekend, called on the National Boundary Commission, NBC, to resolve all outstanding issues arising from the implementation of Decree 23 of 1985 on the boundary between Akwa Ibom and Abia States.

Mr. Ekere, who made the call when he led a C M Y K

Prof Ajienka, who was flanked by other principal officers of the university, called on security operatives to fish out those behind the killings.

When Vanguard visited the community yesterday, some residents were seen relocating to neighbouring areas. They told our correspondent that they were running from arrest by security operatives.

Some of them who spoke on strict condition of anonymity, said they had been living at the mercy of armed robbers in the community within the last six months.

high-powered government delegation to assess the level of damage to Ikot Uko in Ika Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State as a result of the attack by their Azumini neighbours in Ukwa East Local Government Area of Abia State, urged the NBC to collaborate with the two state governments to end the boundary dispute.

He said the Akwa Ibom State Government was ready for dialogue with its Abia State counterpart at the highest level to resolve the dispute amicably.

The Deputy Governor, who is the Chairman of the State Boundary Committee, described the attack on Ikot Uko Ika as unprovoked as the village was not in contention.

his petition, requested leave of the court to bring in additional witnesses to testify on his behalf to which counsel to Governor Oshiomhole (1st respondent) and Action Congress of Nigeria (2nd respondent) filed a counter-application asking the court to dismiss the petitioner’s application, on the ground that it had been overtaken by events.

The 3rd respondent, Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, aligned itself with the position of the 1st and 2nd respondents seeking leave of the court to strike out the petitioner’s application.

The petitioner’s counsel, Mr. P. O. Ituah, while praying the court to allow him bring in additional witnesses said it would help prove his case beyond reasonable doubt.

communities.

Speaking to Vanguard yesterday after an executive meeting of leaders of the group, its President, Mrs. Omasan Ereku, expressed regret over the protracted investigation by Police Headquarters, Abuja, in the reported corruption cases made against some persons in Ugborodo.

She said: “Every well meaning person of Ugborodo remains pained that the Nigeria Police have not been able to complete investigation into the allegation of fraud running into billions of naira."

Vanguard , TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2012—13

I don't blow my trumpet In a statement, Mr. Ben —Gov Orji Onyechere, Special Assist-

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FORUM: From left: Enugu State Acting Governor, Mr. Sunday Onyebuchi, Ebonyi State Governor, Mr. Martin Elechi, Anambra State Governor, Mr. Peter Obi and Abia State Governor, Mr. Theodore Orji, at the South-East political elders' forum in Enugu. Photo: Hill Ezeugwu.

Two drown, 8,000 dislodged as flood ravages Imo communities

By CHIDI NKWOPARA

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WERRI—TWO per sons have been reportedly drowned, while over 8,000 persons have been dislodged from their homes, as the flood ravaging Oguta continues unabated.

Traditional ruler of the community, Eze Nnani Nzeribe, disclosed this when the Deputy

Speaker, House of Representatives, Chief Emeka Ihedioha, paid an unscheduled visit to the flood ravaged community at the weekend.

According to the royal father, fish ponds, cocoa plantation, farm lands, several hectares of cassava, plantain, and over 123 farm settlements are currently submerged.

Eze Nzeribe lamented that all the riverine areas, including Oguta, Orsu, Nnebukwu, Egbema, Orsu Obodo, Opuoma, Ezi Orsu were now under water.

The monarch said: “Over 1,000 homes have been sacked in Oguta, including the home of Executive Secretary, Nigerian Content Develop-

Abia govt tasks monarchs on pipeline vandalisation A BA—ABIA State Government has called on traditional rulers of pipeline host-communities to identify individuals in their domain who perpetrated pipeline vandalism for appropriate sanctions.

The state Commissioner for Petroleum and Solid Minerals Development, Chief Don Ubani, gave the order in a statement made available to the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, yesterday in Aba. It would be recalled that some persons perished while attempting to scoop petroleum products from a vandalised pipeline at Umueke village in the Umueze Autonomous Community of Osisioma Ngwa Local Government Area of the state.

“Henceforth, any traditional ruler in whose community the PPMC pipeline is vandalised should be prepared to identify such hoodlums for appropriate action by government or face the consequence of nonchalance.”

C M Y K

Ubani urged hospitals or traditional healers currently treating any suspected pipeline vandal to report such persons to law enforcement authorities.

He said: “Any medical practitioner or traditional healer who fails to heed to this clarion call will surely be regarded as an accomplice and will definitely be treated as

such.”

NAN reports that Mr Haruna Momoh, Managing Director of Pipeline and Petroleum Marketing Company, PPMC, said at the re-opening of the NNPC Aba depot in July that it lost products worth N7.6 billion to pipeline vandals between the Port Harcourt and Aba segments since 2007.

ment Commission, Mr. Ernest Nwapa, and the bridge connecting Oguta and Egbuoma, the home of the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Anthony Anwuka, has been submerged.”

Noting that this same bridge leads to Senator Arthur Nzeribe’s home, the traditional ruler equally said the ferry had ceased to function because landing ramp was now under water.

Responding, Chief Ihedioha expressed shock over the extent of damage and promised that he would contact the agencies of federal government for necessary action.

Ihedioha said: “I am happy that Oguta people started addressing the natural disaster instead of rioting. The Federal Government would do its part to ensure that the people have relief.

“Flood is now a national issue. All the remedies put in place would get to the affected communities.”

MUAHIA—GOV ERNOR Theodore Orji of Abia State has said that he will continue to develop the state irrespective of the opposition’s plans to bring down his government, stressing that he does not blow his trumpet because his works are there to speak for him.

The governor said that his desire to develop the state and expand the state capital city by building a new government house, surrounded by infrastructure befitting of a state capital many years after was an attestation to the fact that the opposition foresaw his intention to develop the state beyond recognition for which reason they are restless.

ant to the Governor on Public Communication, said: “The determination of the Governor of Abia to expose the state to development as it is common knowledge by what he has achieved in a short space of time what previous administrations put together could not attempt. And this is nothing to make noise about as is the belief of the governor.

“The negligence which was perpetrated by the immediate past administration held the state hostage through powerful media hypnosis without anything to show in the end is contributory to a large extent in increasing the work load for the present administration to contend with."

Group lauds Delta Assembly on DESOPADEC

BY EMMAARUBI

W

ARRI—THE Delta Ijaw Oil Producing Areas Youth Assembly, DIOPAYA, has commended the State House of Assembly for dissolving the State oil intervention agency, DESOPADEC, even as they demand direct payment of 13 per cent derivation fund.

Similarly, social crusader, Mr. Monday Agbeyi, has charged the Commission to continue

with the implementation of the 2012 fiscal year approved projects for oil bearing communities.

DIOPAYA in a statement by its national president, Joseph Wuruyai; national publicity secretary, Jackson Timiyan; Mr. Napoleon Egin and Bebapere John respectively maintained that the commission has been hijacked by some politicians for their selfish interest to the detriment of the oil bearing communities.

Lawmaker assures on projects' completion

B

URUTU—Member, representing Burutu Constituency II, in the Delta State House of Assembly, Mr. Kennedy Daubry, has assured the people of the constituency that all ongoing constituency projects shall be completed as scheduled.

The lawmaker, who gave the assurance shortly after the inspection of some projects located at

Founkoro, Torugbene and Akolobebeghia primary schools, Orugbene, all at roofing level.

He said: “We are building 3 classroom blocks at Akolobebeghia Primary School, Orugbene. The primary school was established in 1955, but no physical structure as children travel one hour distance by canoe to other communities to attend schools.

T

national Affairs, Lagos, be presenting evidence to support his theory that there is a genius in every child, and asks society to do all it can to develop each child’s talent even if the child is from the poorest post code.

She said:“ChrisImafidon,who is a consultant to governments, and patriarch of Britain’s brainiest family and honorary board member of the Excellence in Education programme, is expected to state that every child has an estimated 100 billion brain cells and one cell computes faster than the world’s fastest NASA super computer."

Reps to probe Adoke over Justice Ministry's as total recurrent and Imafidon to deliver HLF lecture budgetary allocation N573,000,000 as total

BY IKECHUKWU

NNOCHIRI BUJA—THE House of Representatives, yesterday, launched investigations into how the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mohammed Adoke, SAN, has so far, utilised funds that were allocated to the Federal Ministry of Justice in the 2012 budget.

Consequently, House Committee on Justice, led by its chairman, Mr. Ali Ahmad, paid an oversight visit to the AGF in

A

his office in Abuja yesterday with a view to verifying the capital releases for the Ministry of Justice in the 2012 appropriation.

It will be recalled that an aggregate sum of N21,654,036,044 was allocated to Ministry, Departments and Agencies, MDA’s, under the Justice sector, in the 2012 budget, with N14,900,648,708 earmarked to cater for total personnel cost, N6, 180,387,336 for overhead cost, N21, 081, 036, 044

capital.

Among the MDA’s listed as beneficiaries in the funds allocated to the Ministry included the Ministry itself-N6,029, 601,569, Nigerian Law Reform CommissionN360,706,679,Legal Aid Council, N895, 248, 568, Council for Legal Education, N1, 309, 679, 710, Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies, NIALS,-N624, 423, 684, Regional Centre for International Commercial Arbitration-N88,618, 484 among others.

HE HALLMARKS of Labour Foundation, HLF, yesterday, said that Dr. Chris Imafidon, world renowned scholar, who has taught at Oxford, Harvard and Cambridge and consults for the UK, US and other governments, will be in Nigeria to deliver the keynote address during the HLF Young Achievers Awards.

According to a statement,

by Patricia Otuedon– Arawore, Executive Secretary, HLF, Imafidon, will, at the event scheduled to take place on October 17, at the Nigerian Institute of Inter-

14—Vanguard , TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2012

NASS may clash with Presidency again over budget

BY SONI DANIEL, ASSISTANT EDITOR BUJA—INDICA TIONS emerged last night that the National Assembly might confront the Presidency and other members of the government over what they consider as poor implementation of the 2012 budget.

The lawmakers who have just concluded their oversight visits to projects sites across the nation are armed with

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AWARD: From right: Pastor Ituah Ighodalo, Pastor, Trinity House, Dr Felix Ohiwerei, an Awardee and Princess Serah Sosan, former Lagos State Deputy Governor, at The Trinity House 2012 Honour Nigeria Awards to mark Nigeria's 52nd Independence in Lagos. Photo: Biodun Ogunleye.

their findings ready to confront those charged with the budget implementation.

Vanguard reliably gathered that most members of the legislature were shocked to discover that the budget had not been implemented the way the Minister of Finance, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, told them two weeks ago.

When she appeared before the lawmakers, the Coordinating Minis-

Ceding allocation power to oil unions: Senate carpets Petroleum Minister

BY HENRY UMORU & INALEGWU SHAIBU

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BUJA—THE Sen ate, yesterday, tonguelashed the Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs Diezani Alison-Madueke and the management of the Petroleum Products Marketing Company, PPMC for ceding the powers of petroleum distribution to the various Unions,

thereby causing pains on Nigerians.

The attack came when the Minister appeared before the Senator Magnus Abe-led Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream).

The meeting was called to proffer solutions to the perennial fuel scarcity across the country.

Senator Magnus Abe who noted that the practice was not acceptable to

Nigerians, stressed that this has led to disparity in PMS being sold across the country as some filling stations sell at the regulated price of N97 while others sell at between N110 and N115.

But responding to the issue raised, the Minister said: ‘’I agree with you completely, it became a little difficult for the market to stabilise to gov-

ernment price. Besides, there has been a little issue due to subsidy payment.”

She also told the Senators that the Turn Around Maintenance, TAM of Port Harcourt, Warri and Kaduna refineries will cost $1.6 Billion (N251.2 billion), just as she disclosed that $146 million(N23.36 billion) has been approved for Port Harcourt refinery to

begin within the first quarter of 2013. She added that TAM for Portharcourt this year was no longer feasible, but the three will now be ready by October 2014.

The initial date for the completion of the TAM was April 2013.

She said: ‘’We have one or two slight lapses in the time line based on realities on ground, and we are therefore adjusting the timeline forward.”

Friends, Vanguard bid Ogbonnaya Amadi farewell

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AGOS—FRIENDS and Vanguard Newspaper family defied yesterday’s heavy down-pour to give a befitting farewell to the don of entertaining reporting and late Vanguard Entertainment Editor, Mr Ogbonnaya Amadi.

The wake-keep had in attendance, Vanguard Publisher, Mr. Sam Amuka; General Manager, Publications/Editor-in-Chief, Mr Gbenga Adefaye; Editorial Board Chairman, Mr Ikeddy Isiguzo; Assistant General Manager, Admin/Legal, Mrs Omasan Dudu; AGM Brands, Mr Fred Odueme; Advert Manager, Emeka Nkwocha; Weekend Editor, Chioma Gabriel; Financial Controller, Mrs Titi Jolaosho; Group Sports Editor, Mr Onochie Anibeze, among others.

Pastor Noruwa Edokpolo, the pastor in charge of Redeemed Christian Church

of God Dominion Sanctuary, ACME, Lagos Province 2, in his sermon admonished late Amadi’s family and friends, to take solace in the fact that Amadi made peace with his creator before his death.

Pastor Edokpolo, lamented that the country was facing a lot of challenges because the masses were after material gains, which he noted last only for a short time.

“I urge you all to have a rethink of your life as someday, we will all give account of our doings while on earth.”

Describing Amadi, as a man who lived his life to the fullest, he said that the late Amadi was always ahead of his class and willing to learn.

A Vanguard’s Senior Editor, Mr Azu Akanwa, who recounted his experience with late Amadi, said he was a man, who cared so much for his family and gave his best to the job of reporting, and he grew to become a master.

He said: “I met him in 1991. I want to corroborate what the Pastor said. We used to go home together, we discussed at length and from our discussion, I knew

Amadi was aware he would leave this world. He had no enemy in his workplace, the family should be happy because he knew his time was up. He used to smoke and drink but stopped, and

there were many things he left.

“I want to encourage all of us as much as it is painful to us, to pray that the Lord will give the family the fortitude to bear the

Late Amadi

,

BY INNOCENT ANABA, KENNETH EHIGIATOR, CHARLES KOMULU, EBUN SESSOU, ONOZURE DANIA & OLAYINKA LATONA

He was a man, who cared so much for his family and gave his best to the job of reporting, and he grew to become a master.

,

loss.”

A former colleague, Mr Fred Iwenjora said: “I knew late Amadi since 1997 and for 10 years, it was a brotherhood. People should bid him farewell where ever he goes.”

He recalled that though there were ups and downs

when they worked together, they worked out their differences and forged ahead on the job.

Editor of Vanguard, Mr Mideno Bayagbon, said: “Aside him being my colleague, late Amadi was one of my closest friends. Late Amadi was my first friend in Vanguard and he was a talented journalist and a friend I will miss dearly. I pray God to give his family the strength and fortitude to bear the loss.”

Deputy Editor of Vanguard, Mr Eze Anaba, said: “I worked closely with him when I was the Saturday Editor and he and his team helped in giving character to the paper. He was a guy who until his death worked hard to prove that he was the don of entertainment journalism. He was really a guy on top of his game and the out-pouring of emotion after his death showed that he was indeed the don.

We will miss him.”

On his part, Mr Kayode Matthew, Vanguard’s News Editor, said late Amadi was “an amiable fellow and a brother, who I am sure to re-unite with at the feet of our Lord Jesus Christ based on the last testimony he shared with me before he passed on.”

ter for the Economy had boasted that the budget had been implemented up to 54 per cent and pleaded for their understanding for MDAs to do more.

The intervention followed the threat by the lawmakers to impeach the President if the budget was not satisfactorily implemented at the end of last month.

However, following series of interventions, the aggrieved lawmakers backed down and asked the government to take urgent steps to ensure the faithful implementation of the Appropriation Act. In spite of that, they subtly prevented the President from presenting his 2013 budget last Thursday, claiming that they wanted more time to undertake the inspection of projects captured in the 2012 budget across the country.

One of the lawmakers told Vanguard yesterday that they were disappointed by what they saw on the ground and that the members were ready to present their findings to Nigerians to see whether the money voted for the 2012 budget had been properly utilised.

The source said: “I can tell you that the report of our various committees that went on oversight functions is ready. The report speaks for itself and Nigerians will be shocked when it is presented.

“The truth of the matter is that the budget has been abysmally implemented despite the fact that all the revenue targets set by the government have since been exceeded.

“The implementation is anything but impressive and we do not know why that has happened because it is not the issue of money. Our members are angry and disappointed over the way and manner the budget has been executed by the MDAs. Asked if that would trigger the impeachment move, which had earlier been put to rest, the lawmaker, who did not want to be named, said that the mood of the lawmakers would determine what further action they might take against the Executive.

Vanguard , TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2012—15

26-yr-old docked for manslaughter

BY ONOZURE DANIA

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AGOS—A 26 years old man, Sunday Akinyemi, has been remanded in prison custody for manslaughter.

Akinyemi was arraigned before a Lagos High Court, Ikeja, yesterday, on a onecount charge of allegedly killing one Okeychukwu Ezugo.

Akinyemi, a commercial

BIRTHDAY: From right: Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State, Senator Sylvester Anyanwu, Mr Jude Agbaso, Imo State Deputy Governor, General Ibrahim Babangida, former Nigerian Head of State and Governor Rochas Okorocha of Imo State, at Gov Okoroch's 50th Birthday in Owerri.

House C'ttee slams FG over slow release of funds

BY CHIOMA OBINNA

A

BUJA—MEMBERS of the House Representatives' Committee on Health have decried the slow release of budgeted funds for capital projects in the 2012 budget on health, accusing Federal

C M Y K

Government of stalling implementation of projects that would have been implemented this year.

To this end, the lawmakers have called on President Goodluck Jonathan to urgently re-

lease funds to the various health institutions and agencies for accelerated development of the sector as well as ensure completion of all ongoing healthcare projects.

The committee made the called weekend in

Lagos during its oversight visit to federal health institutions and agencies in Lagos State and the rest of the South West states to ascertain the level of implementation of 2012 budget in these institutions, describing it as poorly implemented.

The committee members who spoke while on their oversight function to all health institutions and agencies in Lagos and the South West states expressed their displeasure that 70 per cent of capital projects in the 2012 budget for health agencies and institutions were yet to be implemented.

The committee members inspected projects at the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, Lagos University Teaching Hospital, LUTH, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, NIMR, the National Orthopaedic Hospital Igbobi Lagos, NOHIL and the Federal Medical Centre, FMC, Ebute-Metta.

The tour of the projects also took the committee to Owo, Ado-Ekiti, Ibadan and Abeokuta in Ogun State.

Addressing journalists, two members of the House Committee on Health, Mr. Ossai Nicholas Ossai representing NdokwaOkwani Federal Constituency of Delta State and Dr. Joseph Kigbu of Lafia Obi Federal Constituency in Nasarawa, said speedy release of funds would ensure speedy implementation of projects.

motorcycle rider, was said to have allegedly killed Ezugo on May 9, 2011, at Olodi Apapa area of Lagos, by stabbing him with a knife, leading to his death.

After the charge was read to him, he pleaded not guilty. Trial judge, Justice Lateefa Okunnu, ordered that the defendant be remanded in prison custody.

The court adjourned till December 12 for trail.

Lawmakers to FG: Pay priority attention to failed federal roads

BY EMMAN OVUAKPORIE

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ADUNA—MEM BERS of the Federal House of Representatives on an inspection tour of federal roads in North West Nigeria, yesterday, advised the Federal Government to give priority to federal road projects nationwide.

This advise was given during an inspection tour of federal roads in Kaduna and Kano by members of the House Committee on Works.

Mohammed Ali Wudil, Deputy Chairman of Works Committee and leader of the del-

egation noted that ”the Federal Government should as a matter of urgency start giving priority to federal roads all over the six geo-political zones of the country. “ He said: “There is nothing wrong if the OreBenin road is prioritised, the 9th Mile road project, the Lagos Ibadan Expressway, the Kano-Maiduguri and the Abaji-Lokoja-Abuja roads. ”A situation where so many road projects are being pursued at the same time will no way help us to grow because they largely remained uncompleted projects."

FG approves 25 top varsites for 101 presidential to the awardees in scholarships cate Abuja.

BY EMMAN OVUAKPORIE

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BUJA—PRESI DENT Goodluck Jonathan, yesterday, ordered the Minister of Education, Professor Ruqayyatu Ahmed Rufa’i, to select top 25 universities in the world where the 101 candidates who passed the maiden annual presidential scholarship test could study for their Masters degrees and Phds.

The minister disclosed disclosed this at the presentation of certifi-

She said the presidential scholarship scheme for innovation and development, PRESSID, was instituted by the Federal Government as part of government’s efforts towards achieving Vision 20:2020 goals.

Beneficiaries of the scholarships are first class students of government recognised and approved universities in Sciences, Basic Medical Sciences, Special Aspects of Biology, Economics, Engineering and Technology, as well as Medicine.

Nigerian varsities missing from top 400 rankings

BY LAJU ARENYEKA, with Agency Reports

A

BUJA—NO Nige rian University made the list of the top 400 in the world according to rankings by the Times Higher Education, THE, for 2012-2013.

The only African Universities on the list are based in South Africa.

According to the re-

port, the University of Cape Town which ranks 113 in the world with 55.8, ranks as number one in Africa. South African universities also came in second, third and fourth on the African scene with the universities of Witwatersrand, Stellenbosch and Kwazulu-Natal, respectively scoring 226, 251 and 351 overall.

16—Vanguard , TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2012

Sokoto expels 77 students for exam malpractices

By Abdallah el-Kurebe

S

Okada riders protesting in Lagos yesterday over the banning of Okada on 475 roads in Lagos metropolis by the state government.

Lagos warns unauthorised traffic law enforcers

BY OLASUNKANMI AKONI AND MONSUR OLOWOOPEJO

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HE LAGOS State Government has warned unauthourised persons who have been arresting motorists and

c o m m e r c i a l motorcyclists, popularly called “Okada” riders under the guise of enforcing the state Road Traffic Law and vandals of road signages to desist from the acts or

Bizman docked for allegedly stealing 50 bags of rice

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AGOS — A businessman, Aliyu Mohammed, was yesterday arraigned for allegedly stealing 50 bags of rice valued at N405,000.

Mohammed, 27, who resides in the military officers’ quarters, Ikeja Cantonment, Lagos, is facing a three-count charge of conspiracy, stealing and shopbreaking before an Oshodi Magistrates’ Court in Lagos.

The accused pleaded not guilty to the charge.

The prosecutor, Cpl. Kehinde Olatunde, told the court that the accused and others at large committed the offence on Sept. 25 at No. 35, Church St., Oshodi, Lagos.

He said that the accused and the others broke into the shop belonging to Mr. Chuks Chinweokwu, “damaged the burglary and padlocks and carted away 50 bags of rice.

“The complainant was called by his salesgirl, Jane, who met the shop doors wide open when she reported for duty that morning and 50 bags of rice were missing.”

Olatunde said that during investigation, it

was discovered that the items stolen were allegedly taken to another shopping complex in Oshodi.

The prosecutor said that the shop owner simply identified as ‘Iya Anu’ was invited and disclosed that it was the accused who brought the goods to the shopping complex.

The Magistrate, Mrs. M.R. Osho-Adebiyi granted the accused bail in the sum of N200,000 with two sureties in like sum.

She adjourned the case to Oct.16 for trial.

face the wrath of the law when caught.

This came on the heels of public outcry over indiscriminate arrest of traffic law offenders and extortion by people who claimed to be law enforcement agents.

Speaking at an interministerial media briefing to mark safety campaign week, Comm -issioner for Transportation, Mr. Kayode Opeifa and his counterpart at the Information and Strategy, Mr. Aderemi Ibirogba, clarified that the state government authourised only uniformed law enforcement officers to enforce the law.

According to Opeifa; “Only Lagos State Transport Management Authority, L ASTMA, officials; Vehicle Inspection Officers, Federal Road Safety Commission, FRSC, officers; Policemen; Civil Defence Corps are those

empowered to enforce the law.

“Any other person or group other than the above mentioned agencies are unknown to the state government and they are impostors that are not working for the state goverment.”

While alerting the public to be wary of such impostors who extort unsuspecting motorists and report same to the relevant authorities, the Commissioner, threatened to deal with any one caught in the act according to the law.

Meantime, the state government in collaboration with a Nollywood star organisation, Alhaji Adebayo Salami production, yesterday previewed and distributed thousands copies of docu-drama, entitled Aye Olokoda (Okada menace) during the official launch of the video album in Alausa, Ikeja.

Felabration kicks off with schools’ debate

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AGOS — THIS y e a r ’ s remembrance of the late Afro beat maestro, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, will kick off tomorrow with secondary schools’ debate at the Freedom

Park, Lagos.

According to reports, the yearly event tagged “Felabration”, is in remembrance of the musical legend who died in 1997.

Musical artistes,

political activists and fans of the late Afro beat exponent will gather at the New Afrika Shrine, Agidingbi, Lagos, for various performances and debates in the weeklong activities.

Teachers give states January ultimatum over TSS

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AGOS — TEAchers in Lagos State have called on the Federal Government and other stakeholders, to urgently prevail on state governments that were yet to implement the Teachers Salary Structure (TSS), to do so

in due course.

The teachers, who spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos yesterday, added that failure to do so by January 2013 might result to another round of nationwide strike.

During this year ’s Teachers Day anniversary on Oct. 5, the National President of the Nigeria Union of Teachers, NUT, Mr. Michael AlogbaOlukoya gave the same deadline in his address.

OKOTO — THE Polytechnic of Sokoto State has dismissed 77 students for exam malpractices.

A statement signed on Monday by the Rector of the Polytechnic, Prof.

Bashir Garba, a copy of which was made available to Vanguard in Sokoto, explained that the Academic Board of the institution had approved the dismissal of the affected students.

According to the Rector, “about 202 students had their

semester cancelled while examination papers of 44 others were also cancelled,” he said adding, “at least 23 students were discharged and cleared of any malpractice.”

“Some of the offenses include entering the exam hall with note books, copying answers from fellow students and exchange of exam booklets and the inability of the affected students to appear before the Examination Malpractice Committee,” he pointed out.

Benue State takes measures against overflow of Lake Nyos

B

ENUE GOVERnment yesterday said it had earmarked 28 camps across the state as a pre-emptive m e a s u r e against possible floods as a result of the overflow of Lake Nyos in Cameroon.

The Executive Secretary of the State E m e r g e n c y Management Agency, Mr. Adikpo Agbatse, told

the News Agency of Nigeria, (NAN) in Makurdi that the camps would accommodate 72,000 people likely to be displaced.

Agbatse warned that the overflow of the lake w o u l d c a u s e more disaster than the recent flood which was caused by the release of water from the Lagdo Dam also in Cameroon.

Akwa Ibom medical students get reprieve

l

lYO — TEN students from Ukanafun, Ikot Ekpene in Akwa Ibom and Rivers states are to benefit from a special scholarship, Isabella Medical Scholarship Fund (IMSF) instituted

by Inyang & Isabella Inyang Foundation for medical students in the country.

Already, a board of trustees of eminent persons has been constituted to manage the fund with Professor Akanimo Essiet as chairman, Monsignor Sylvanus U. Etok (Spiritual Advisor), Professor S. 1. Etuk, Dr. Uduak E. Inyang, Dr.

Uduak E. Udom, Sir Samuel E. Inyang and Dr. Ephraim Umoh as secretary.

"The achievements of the trustees in their individual endeavours is sufficient proof that this Board will, without doubt, bring the desired credit to IMSF." The above statement of trust was made by Sir Samuel Inyang recently, during a reception in his honour by the First City Monument Bank, (FCMB) following the award of the prestigious Officer of the Order of Niger (OON) on him by President Goodluck Jonathan

Workers vow to resist antistrike bill

BY VICTOR AHIUMAYOUNG

West African Health Sector Unions Network, WAHSUN, in Nigeria and other West African countries have expressed concerns by perceived moves in the Nigerian Senate and in the Adamawa State House of Assembly at passing

anti-strike legislations, vowing to resist the planned laws.

WAHSUN-in-session categorically warns against the consummation of these efforts as such would be vehemently resisted in countries across the subregion. Tema, Ghana, they said:

Vanguard, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2012—17

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‘They’ should do something.... who are ‘they’? (1)

tive transformations of nations that were all Third World countries less than three decades ago into First World r a n k i n g ” (Thisday Oct 2, 2012). What people who invoke the examples of other nations cleverly leave out is the fact that the transformation of some of these countries took place under authoritarian rules!

For me the single most debilitating obstacle to our transformation is our attitude to law and order! We never adjust to obey laws, rather we fight. Look at the hue and cry over Lagos State’s new traffic laws! Even senior officers of the Armed Forces went to the Governor to ask for the law to be changed!

I

•IGP Mohammed Abubakar all. It seems as if the country is going to break up. Indeed anybody who wants to sound knowledgeable these days starts by writing off Nigeria. We cannot pretend that all is well. No. But, you see, even as we lament our national woes, especially as they directly affect us, there are men and women of the Armed Forces and other security organisations who are laying down their lives to provide a perimeter of protection for us. Today about 1000 of them have paid the supreme price for our protection. So when we write off our country because of the activities of terrorists and violent gangs, we unconsciously write off the sacrifices of these “other” Nigerians.

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here is this mentality that we are not responsible for what our country has become or what it has failed to achieve. “They” are the problem, and not us. For example, many Nigerians mindlessly dispose their refuse indiscriminately and some of them end up in the drains. When this results in flooding the typical Nigerian cry is that “they” should do some-

thing about it! “They” owe us every answer but we take no responsibility! Who really are “they”?

“They” are us! At every point you locate a failure, there is a Nigeri-

n 1993, we stopped at Phuket, a holiday Island of Thailand.

A notice posted at the airport caught my attention. It itemized the people not allowed into Phuket: Hippies, people with dreadlocks, people with pierced ears, faded jeans, etc. The obvious intent was to preserve the Island’s ability to attract tourists. If you made such laws here, our democrats and human rights activist will go to court on behalf of the suffering masses!

Whereas citizens of other nations have borne the brunt of their transformation, we choose which laws to obey; we even choose and insist on how we want to be governed. And for 160 million peo-

,

AST week’s celebration of our 52nd independence anniversary offered us another opportunity for national moaning.

I consciously avoided joining the bandwagon to pontificate ex-cathedra about our shortcomings.

Rather I took a copy of my book: A Familiar Road and I read titles like, Thirty Years Ago; 33 Years In The Wilderness; 35 And Still BedWetting, etc and I came to the conclusion similar to my 2006 conclusion about the Niger Delta crisis. Soon after the abduction of eight foreign oil workers in the Niger Delta, someone in the Presidency asked my views about the crisis. I told him that everybody knows what is wrong in Niger Delta; what we needed to do was to discuss a development roadmap for the region.

In the same vein, we all know the things wrong with our nation.

But how about spending a little time and ink to articulate how to solve our problems? To dwell perpetually on what is wrong with us amounts to what mystics call mental poisoning. It perpetuates and deepens our national trauma.

There is no greater witchcraft than the one in our mind! Our country is nothing but what we think, do or say about it. Waziri Adio made a wonderful anniversary submission he titled: “Lets Start By Fixing The Mind”(Thisday Monday October 1, 2012). I recommend that article to every Nigerian.

Those who peremptorily excoriate Nigeria may believe that they have discharged their patriotic duty. When I read Sera Pallin’s book, America By Heart, I realised how little we love our country. For sure, there is no country without problems. There are still people who, out of frustration, burn the American flag. But patriotism, as Pallin argued, is unconditional, for the very reason that there is always the “other” side of a country, even when we think all is lost. For example, when traffic was diverted on the Third Mainland Bridge for repairs, it caused traffic snarl. Lagosians wailed and cried as if their world had come to an end. But, as Igwe Alex Nwokedi observed to me, those wailing completely ignored the sacrifices of the men and women of the Police, LASTMA, Traffic Wardens, Civil Defence and Road Safety Corps who left the comfort of their homes and family to deploy on the bridge day and night to minimize the inconvenience of the road users; they also forgot the gains that await everybody at the end of the pains caused by the repairs.

Today we are all concerned about insecurity in our country.

The spate of killings despairs us

For me the single most debilitating obstacle to our transformation is our attitude to law and order! We never adjust to obey laws, rather we fight; look at the hue and cry over Lagos State’s new traffic laws!

an who has failed to hold his forte!

Ivan Illich, a Viennese priest/philosopher, in his book, Celebration of Awareness, said: “Every one of us, and every group with which we live and work, must become the model of the era which we desire to create”.

My friend Chidi Amuta in his anniversary piece: “How Country Now?” pointed out that: “China, India, Singapore, Brazil, Malaysia, Dubai, Qatar, Indonesia, etc, are typical examples of posi-

,

ple, that is another name for anarchy! As Mallam Adamu Ciroma said: “We adopt the path of self-selection of the rules we want to follow, of the general order we want to follow and the laws we want to follow. Once you do that, the consequences become bigger and more serious as the years go by”. In our case those who are loudest are really not those who bear the brunt of our laws!

In 1983, we coined the phrase, “Ghana Must Go”, when we threw out economic refugees from Gha-

na. Kwesi, Asamoah and Adjua went home to build Ghana.

Whereas every Ghanaian in diaspora repatriated his income home, in our case we loot our country to stash in foreign banks!

Today Ghana is a destination for shameless Nigerians for education, holiday and residency! It is often said that when a Nigerian enters a place, you do not mistake the fact that he is a Nigerian. This speaks of our swagger! Are we too big to build our country?

FROM MY MAILBAG

Greetings Mr Jason , I’m writing with regard to your View Point column in today’s Vanguard, The Mugging of Sanusi.

Your commentary is a timely intervention and I hope many Nigerians would read it. I applaud the intelligent insight and objectivity in your commentary, two ingredients which have become rare in the latest pastime called “Sanusibashing”.

Even my big brother, Dele Momodu whom I respect very much, could not help jumping on the band-wagon despite aptly capturing the history of fickle sentimentality within the wider society.

It is inevitable that when people are oppressed, poor, hungry and angry, in the absence of heroes who would lift them out of despair, they look for villains at whom to point the finger for all their woes. Unfortunately, in such climes, they become easy fodder for political hoodwinkers.

It is possible that ‘Sanusi-bashing’ is a well-choreographed project by indeterminate adversaries whose aim could be to exact revenge and/or to gag a fearless truth teller. Sanusi is no saint, but is he really the villain in the big picture of the numerous problems in this country? For a while now, the Sanusi adversaries have leveraged every CBN policy move, whether positive or controversial, to perpetuate this culture of personal abuse and serve him up as the focus for the people’s frustrations. Sadly, they have used the media with some measure of success.

Therefore, Mr. Jason, I’m paying you my respect for staying true to the core tenets of your profession which some have abandoned in favour of jumping on easy bandwagons.

Please keep up the good work.

Celine Loader.

OPINION

BY JUDE NJOKU

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HE way to dusty death. Out, out, brief candle!

Life’s but a walking shadow, a poor player That struts and frets his hour upon the stage And then is heard no more: it is a tale Told by an idiot, full of sound and fury, Signifying nothing”.

This quote from the popular Shakespearian play, Macbeth, clearly illustrates the brevity and vanity of life. HUB, I find it

C M Y K

Tribute to H.U.B Kagha hard to believe that you are no more. You welcomed me with open arms and accepted me as your son-in-law when some skeptics wondered how you and my late mother-in-law chose to give out your second daughter to a supposedly Mr. Nobody. I vividly remember the story you told me about how you got married to your heartthrob when public opinion was overwhelmingly against that decision. You stunned those who opposed the marriage by telling them that if they cut off your head, it will roll

to Ogbeke to get hold of Berna.

That strong statement scared them to the marrow, hence they gave in to your choice. You constantly encouraged us with words like: “I had nothing when I married my wife; you are two young graduates with very bright prospects, the sky is therefore your limit”.

I cannot also forget in a hurry your wise counsel on “one block a day will produce 365 blocks in a year ”.

The late Hyacinth Uche Berechi (HUB) Kagha was born into

the family of the late Berechi Kagha of Umuikedim Umuogoloche, Ihitta Ogada in the Owerri North Local Government Area of Imo State in 1939.

He had his primary education at Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Emekuku, Owerri. The death of his father when he was only four years, did not deter HUB from pursuing his academic endeavours.

After passing his Standard Six Exams in flying colours, the late HUB who did not have the privilege of attending a convention-

al secondary school due to lack of sponsorship, attended Preliminary Teachers’ Training College, PTC, Ogbaku in the Mbaitoli LGA and qualified as a pupil-teacher. He later got the Teachers’ Grade Two certificate from TTC Aazaraegbelu, Owerri HUB’s undying hunger to further his education, saw him gain admission into seven Nigerian and foreign universities in one year.

Continues on pg18 Mr Njoku is a staff of Vanguard Newspapers

18 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2012 WHAT would the world be without teachers? October 5, World Teachers Day passed quietly. Nigerians agree on the importance of teachers, except that the importance is addressed with words. It is sad.

Education is a major factor in the human development index. Countries that invest well in education are at the top bracket of human development. They reap bountifully from the cross-cutting benefits of education.

Our low position in the human development index is not a full picture of the depth of the decay in various spheres of our society. In education, for example, there is hardly any investment to improve the teaching environment or the education of our teachers. While many of us admit that teaching is a thankless job, we have added to the burden of those who over the years made this humanitarian gesture to our society. They are poorly paid and live in ruinous poverty after retirement. They form a huge part of the pension queues, society’s final signature on those it has rejected.

There is very little in the life of the Nigerian teacher to recommend the profession to

To Our TTeac eac her s eacher hers others. The country is expectedly running on the last string of its teachers. Many of those in service are not trained, and society is not bothered about unqualified teachers promoting literacy. In 2010, there were media reports of fake teachers, thousands of them, on governments’ pay rolls.

As the profession becomes less attractive because of its appalling conditions of service, younger people who should take over from the retiring teachers seek fulfillment elsewhere. Many of those who teach today use the profession as a stopgap to their aspirations.

How will this society survive without teachers?

Our education has problems with facilities

and curriculum, resulting from government’s unwillingness to consider the sector a priority.

The sustenance of education this far has been on the dedication of teachers, who still relish seeing their efforts turning young men and women into the country’s leaders.

No serious country can sustain itself on such lean passions, which would die with the generation that espouses it. Already, plunging examination results are being blamed on growing illiteracy among teachers and poor teaching standards.

Governments should institute major initiatives on education to reduce its bureaucracies, and save funds for the training and welfare of teachers, and improved facilities in schools.

Special attention needs to be paid to attracting younger people to teaching. At all levels, they are unwilling to subject themselves to a life of penury, which is what society has prescribed for teaching.

Enduring improvements of society are no longer feasible with the minimal investments we make in the welfare of teachers and provision of teaching aids.

OPINION

BY JUDE NJOKU Continued from pg 17

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HIS was after obtaining excellent grades in A’ Levels.

He, however, enrolled to study History at the University of Ibadan. This golden opportunity would have eluded him but for the intervention and philanthropy of H.R.H. the late Eze G.N. Nwankwere, the Omereoha 1 of Ihitta Ogada who gave him the initial sum of 47 pounds for registration and other logistics.

Due to the outbreak of the Nigerian Civil War, HUB transferred from the University of Ibadan to the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, UNN, where he bagged the BA (Hons) in1972. He went back to UNN and in 1983, graduated with a Masters Degree in History. His doctorate degree programme from the same university was truncated when he had a serious road accident that affected his hearing. He was writing his PHD dissertation when the accident occurred.

HUB’s teaching career took him to many parts of Nigeria, including the defunct Benue/Plateau State, where he taught at Mount Saint Gabriel Secondary School, Makurdi in the early 70s. He also taught in schools at Ogwa, Mbieri, Orodo and Ogbaku in the Mbaitoli Local Government Area, and Imerienwe (19751987) in the Ngor-Okpala LGA. He was the pioneer Principal of TEDEM College Imerienwe which metamorphosed into Imo Technical University, TEDEM. TEDEM, the first privately owned university in Nigeria, was established by the visionary Dr. Nnanna Ukegbu. HUB was the first Registrar of the university which offered admission to many young school leavers until the Buhari/Idiagbon regime closed it down, C M Y K

Tribute to H.U.B Kagha thereby killing a vision that would have taken education in Nigeria to greater heights. He was also the pioneer Principal of C.C.C Secondary School, Umuoba Uratta in Owerri North LGA. It was through his efforts that the school established by Monsignor Onwuanibe was approved and registered with the Imo State School system. The approval made it possible for students of the school to qualify to write both the Junior and Senior WAEC Exams.

A literary genius, HUB was a Chief Examiner (Literature in English) with the West African Examinations Council, WAEC for several years. This position took him to many West African countries like Ghana, Gambia and Sierra Leone for international coordination.

In the field of politics, HUB was the President of the Federation of Catholic Students Union when he was at UNN. This took him to Switzerland and other parts of the world. He was the first Secretary of Alaenyi Peoples Forum, the umbrella organisation which streamlined the zoning of elective positions in the old Alaenyi ward comprising Ihitta Ogada, Awaka, Egbu and Naze in Owerri North LGA. He was the Secretary of the Social Democratic Party, SDP, in old Alaenyi ward during the Babangida’s two-party dispensation. He was at a time, a member (Administrative Secretary) of Owerri Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

HUB was a two-term Councilor; first in the old Owerri Local Government Area and until recently, he was the Supervisory Councillor for Health in the Owerri North

LGA. The late HUB Kagha was the President-General of Ihitta Ogada Improvement Union from 1987 to 1992. It was during his tenure that the present Community Primary School Hall in the community was rebuilt. He paid school fees for many children both within and outside his nuclear family.

He was a member of the Eze-in-Council from 1995 2003 and a member of the Advisory Committee of the present traditional ruler of Ihitta Ogada until death struck on August, 10, 2012. A Catholic, HUB served as the Chairman, Launching Committee for the building of St Kyrian’s Catholic Church in 2001.

An expert in conflict resolution, HUB was always there to settle nagging problems that had defied solutions. Those who had problems with their wives or in-laws would readily invite HUB who had the magic wand to settle such disputes.

HUB got married to his heartthrob, Miss Bernadette Amuneke of Ogbeke Obibi. The marriage which was consummated at St Paul’s Catholic Church Owerri on November 6, 1965, is blessed with four surviving children.

Concluded

*Mr Njoku is a staff of Vanguard NewspapersAba

Vanguard, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2012— 19

, Nigeria-US Bi-National Commission and Nigeria Security Interests: How to Make the Commission A Win-win Project (3)

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HE American Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Terence McCulley was interviewed by a Vanguard team led by the Political Editor, Emmanuel Aziken. The two perspectives on what led US Army Field Manual FM 3- 07 describes as stability operations are identified in the lead question of the Vanguard Team and the US Ambassador’s answer of the question.

“How far would the United States and Nigeria go to ensure that the two parties uphold the framework of the Bi-National Commission tying the two countries?"

The Ambassador response was: “I think it is important to look at the Bi-National commission as a vehicle for our bilateral dialogue and our bilateral engagements with the government of Nigeria.

The Bi-National Commission was established in April, 2010, signed by former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Yayale Ahmed and Secretary of State Hilary Clinton. The commission set

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up five working groups to advance our bilateral dialogue with the government of Nigeria. One in governance transparency and integrity, another in energy and investment. Another in agriculture and food security, Niger Delta and regional security. We met regularly to discuss our views on all these issues, how we can help build our bilateral relationship and advance our common goals. We met in June in Washington. It was a sort of stock taking exercise, two years on to see where we are. It was the highest level of the Bi-National Commission that we have conducted with the government of Nigeria. Our side was led by our Deputy-Secretary of State Bill Barnes and the Nigerian side was led by the Honorable Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Ashiru. It was attended by numerous governors, senior officials across the Nigerian government as well as civil society and the private sector. So, we looked at each area, how can we work together to build Nigeria’s

The BiNational Commission is a bilateral relationship between two governments with unequal capacity to deal with the issues addressed

,

capacity to address a variety of security challenges that the country

is facing?”

The Bi-National Commission is not just a vehicle for structuring exchanges between two friendly governments, it is a bilateral relationship between two governments with unequal capacity to deal with the issues addressed, even when similarity of interests in the outcome of the dialogues is assumed. This point is brought out in the answer the Ambassador gave to the following question: “So you were in Mali? Yes. Is the US administration concerned about the influence of Al-Queda in the Maghreb which has taken over substantial portion of that country?” The Ambassador answered as follows:

“It is a fact that I am no longer Ambassador to Mali, but looking at that from the Nigerian perspective, we have been very impressed as usual with Nigerian role within the ECOWAS in responding to the crisis in Mali. I think we are all concerned about the establishment of an Islamist enclave in northern Mali, particularly with the fall of Gaddafi, you have an influx of weapons from Libya.

When I was in Mali, we heard stories in the press of the so called Nigerian Taliban or Boko Haram travelling into northern Mali for training. Yes, obviously, we are concerned that what is going on in northern Mali could have destabiContinues next week

Govt approach to security planning (2) Continued from last week

T

he US Army fought and won the battles waged against Saddam Hussein but had left the task of bringing order to chaos in Iraq to the Iraqis. The US and NATO are fighting the battles against the Taliban in Afghanistan, and the Allied Forces are withdrawing without winning the battles. Can the Afghan Government established by the Allied Forces bring order to chaos in post-NATO Afghanistan? Bringing order to chaos is a victor ’s post-conflict peace-building task. The Nigerian Government has yet to realise that this is a victor’s task; a military conflict resolution not a conflict management task.

Bringing order to chaos is bring-

ing order to the chaos of anarchy; a replacement of anarchy with order. This is what FM 307 calls stability Operations that requires a whole of government approach.

“A whole of government approach is an approach that integrates the collaborative efforts of the departments and agencies of the United States Government to achieve unity of effort toward a shared goal. A whole of government approach is vital to achieving the balance of resources, capabilities and activities that reinforce progress made by one of the instruments of national power while enabling success among the others. It relies on interagency coordination among the agencies

of the USG, including the Department of Defense, to ensure that the full range of available capabilities are leveraged, synchronized, and applied toward addressing the drivers of conflicts and reinforcing local institutions to facilitate achieving sustainable peace. Success in this approach depends upon the ability of civilian and military forces to plan jointly and respond quickly and effectively through an integrated, interagency approach to a fundamentally dynamic situation. Accomplishing this requires a willingness and ability to share resources among USG agencies and organizations, while working toward a common goal.

Concluded

20 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2012

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Vanguard, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2012 — 21

One-third of companies’ profit in Nigeria eroded by taxation — Report …Tax ranking worsens, as coys pay taxes every 10 days STORIES BY MICHAEL EBOH

He continued: “The paying taxes results enable governments to benchmark their tax with others on a like-for-like basis and to identify best practices.”

He quoted the report:d, “The

N

IGERIA has been ranked 134 out of 138 economies on the ease of paying taxes, dropping from 134 recorded in 2011 in the PriceWaterhouseCoopers’, PWC, ‘Paying Taxes 2012 Study.’

“Put differently, this means that in Nigeria, a medium size company on average pays nearly one third of its commercial profit in taxes, spends over 23 weeks in a year dealing with tax affairs and makes a tax payment every 10 days,” according to the report. Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, Partner/Tax & Corporate Advisory Services Leader, PWC, who presented the report to newsmen in Lagos,said with the latest ranking, Nigeria is far behind many of leading investment destinations in Africa including Mauritius, which ranked 9, South Africa36 and Ghana 87.

He maintained that Nigeria’s consistent decline in the ease of Paying Taxes index is as a result of the country’s uncoordinated approach to tax reforms, while a number of countries have undertaken a significant improvement in their tax systems.

Oyedele added that across the globe, governments focus are mainly on tax reforms, adding that in 2010/2011, the period covered by the 2012 study, 33 economies made it easier to pay taxes or reduced tax rates.

“Common among the tax reforms witnessed across the globe is the introduction of electronic systems to make compliance easier,” he said.

D

IZENGOFF (West Africa) Nigeria Limited, says it is entering into a partnership with farmers in

-5.55

2,385.00

-10.00

21.48

-0.12

111.41

-1.17

89.47

-2.24

155.27 251.3666 202.0218 166.6345 1.979 0.2954 238.2616 24.7044 41.4031 27.0854 239.7679

155.77 252.1761 202.6723 167.1711 1.9853 0.3054 239.0288 24.7844 41.5365 27.1727 240.54

CBN Exchange rate as at 08/10/2012 C M Y K

pani in Nigeria makes 35 tax payments annually, pays 32.7 per cent of its commercial profit in taxes and spends 938 hours to comply.

“As a result, Nigeria ranks 123 on number of tax payments, 56 on total tax rate and 180 on time required to comply out of 183 economies covered by the survey.”

Oyedele blamed Nigeria’s decline on the overall tax payment ranking on the amount of time required to comply with tax obligations in the country.

This, he said, covers the time required to comply with major taxes including collection of information, computation of tax payable, completing tax return forms, filing with relevant tax authorities, arranging payment or withholding and preparing tax accounting records and documentation.

Continuing further, Oyedele stated, “To a very large extent, the study shows that there is correlation between the ease of paying taxes and economic development, as paying taxes is easiest for business in highincome economies.

Food sufficiency: Dizengoff to boost Nigeria’s agric production by 75%

169.00

154.77 250.5572 201.3712 166.0979 1.9726 0.2854 237.4943 24.6244 41.2698 26.9982 238.9958

“The three indicators are: Number of tax payments; total tax rate as a percentage of commercial profit and time required to comply with tax requirements. On these sub-indicators for 2012, a medium size com-

From left: Dr. Christopher Kolade, former Nigerian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, keynote speaker; Mr. Abiola Popoola, President, Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria (CIPM) and Bishop Matthew Kukah, Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, at the 44th CIPM conference, in Abuja.

CURRENCY BUYING CENTRAL SELLING DOLLAR STERLING EURO FRANC YEN CFA WAUA RENMINBI RIYAL KRONA SDR

study measured three separate aspects of paying taxes. Two of these relate to the tax compliance burden and one to then tax cost. All three are equally weighted to arrive at an overall ranking.

Nigeria, targeting a 75 per cent increase in food and agricultural production in the country in the next couple of months.

Speaking at the launch of Amiran Farmers kit from Dizengoff, Mr. Richard Hargrave, Managing Director of the company, said that unless a model of sustainable local food production for small scale farmers is established, it would be difficult for African countries to address the looming food security issues.

The issues threatening food security in Africa, according to him, include growing populations, less and

less arable land and an impending water shortage.

He said: “Like many across Africa, our company really wanted to change the curse of poverty and hunger that has pervaded the continent.

We frankly believe the old model of ‘Western aid/no trade’ fuels the cycle of food poverty. All around, communities are longing for access to the right tools, knowledge and support to sustainably grow their own food, even surplus, in an economically viable manner.

“It was certain that Africa could never address the looming food security issues unless a model of sustainable local food production for small scale farmers could be successfully established.”

Hargrave maintained that with the Amiran Farmers Kit, the company aims to provide a holistic approach to empower farmers to grow more from less, while helping to get the hungry, jobless disaffected youth off the city streets and

back into productive farming.

According to him, Dizengoff intends to bring every day, all year round, a steady supply of bigger, better and less costly fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, melons and other vegetables into every food market of every city, town and village of Nigeria.

He said: “The Farmers Kit addresses so many of the issues that plague Agriculture in Nigeria today. It gets Government out of the farming business and puts it back into the hands of our youth. The future of Nigeria’s food security must rest with this next generation of new young farmers.

“Our mission is to liberate the small scale subsistence farmer by providing a proven approach to become an agroprenuer, with a middle class income on a permanent sustainable basis, as well as to bring fresh fruit and vegetables to the surrounding communities at affordable prices.

“We have actually increased

crop yields, on a per hectare basis, by up to 75 times in gross weight harvested. Our mission is also to eliminate the current scandalous 60 per cent waste of the meagre quantities historically grown the old fashioned ways, turned rotten by poor packing and long arduous transportation from the Northern fields to the urban cities in the South.

“Our dream is to bring locally grown quality produce at stable affordable prices to men and women, young and old, rich or poor, everywhere across Nigeria. Our certainty is that we are going to ensure at last the opportunity for small scale subsistence farmers to enjoy prosperous middle class incomes year round, bringing more food from less space without charging exorbitant prices to ordinary Nigerians.”

“This is not just a business; this is a transformation that is

Vanguard , TUESDAY TUESDAY,, OCTOBER 9, 2012 — 23

Incredible: Delta school where pupils sit on floor •Uduaghan shocked, sends fact-finding team Regional Editor, South-South

I

T was the alarm raised by a Delta State-based non- governmental organisation, NGO, Delta Women, August 21, that first drew public attention to the predicament of Okuijorogu community in Okpe Local Government Area of the state where children sit on the floor after trekking a distance of four kilometres to a dilapidated school in a neighbouring village. The alarm at first sounded like a fairy tale in the 21st century.

This is because the state government under Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan placed very high emphasis on quality education and had not only been building primary and secondary schools in the state, but also upgrading facilities to make learning easy. The newly rebuilt schools have become objects of attraction across the state.

According to the letter addressed to Governor Uduaghan, entitled, “Request for a School”, signed by chief executive officer and founder of Delta Women, Ms. Elsie Reed: “The community with over 1,000 pupils and students in need of an opportunity to be educated are forced to travel miles away to neighbouring communities of Adeje, Egborode and Okwijemor in their quest for education”.

Vanguard Metro, VM, learnt that the Governor, who was disturbed that there was neither a conducive primary nor secondary school in a community in the state, sent a fact-finding team to verify the information.

Community leaders confirm story The coordinator of Uduaghan Vision Students, UVS, Delta State, Comrade Phillips Onos Urieh, led the delegation. Okpeke Joseph, Gift Ogberahwe and Desmond Dede accompanied him. The Governor decided to send UVS because he wanted a ‘raw’ report of the situation.

The fact-finding team got to Okuijorogu community on Sunday, September 9, 13 days after Delta Women made the plight of the people public.

Urieh stated: “The people of the community confirmed that the issue raised by Delta Women is true. They said that their children have suffered so much in their educational pursuits due to absence of school in the community”.

Commissioner’s undisclosed visit The Commissioner for High-

er Education, Professor Hope Eghaygha, also undertook an undisclosed visit to the community to assess the situation on ground.

We trekked the 4-km distance with villagers — Urieh Urieh told VM: “The people took the delegation through the four-kilometre distance their children trek everyday to school and were particularly appreciative of the Governor’s gesture in sending a fact-finding team. They showed the delegation a hectare of land, which they want the state government to build primary and secondary schools, as well as a healthcare centre for them”.

Youth chairman, Mr. Idjerhe pledged that the community “ will continue to maintain peace despite all the challenges rocking the community educationally and health wise”, adding that they would also render physical support to any contractor when mobilized to site to make sure there is development in their communi-

,

BY EMMA AMAIZE,

The nearest school to the community is dilapidated; there are no seats in some of the classrooms and the children have to sit on the floor

,

ty.

Decrepit school Urieh said the nearest school at Okwijemor community, which pupils from attend, was dilapidated and without furniture in some of the classrooms.

His words: “It is so regrettable that the nearest school to the community at Okwijemor, which the children trek four kilometres to, is dilapidated.

That there are no seats in some of the classrooms and the children have to sit on the floor after trekking this distance to receive lectures”.

Jubilation Explaining the mood in the community when they got there, Urieh said: “The delegation was received by the oldest man of the community, Mr. Akpewerene Michael, and other villagers, at about 12:40

*Children of Okuijorogu community and some of their parents gather to receive the state government fact-finding delegation. pm in the community centre.

They jubilated as soon as the purpose of the visit was announced, saying that God had answered their prayers. They urged Governor Uduaghan to complete the assignment that the Almighty had laid in his heart.

In Urieh’s words: “We told them that it had come to the notice of the State Government on Monday September 3, 2012 that a community in Okpe Local Government Area called Okuijorogu community has been totally left behind in the scheme of the educational works of the state.

“And that this has affected the educational career of the children of the community as they travel three miles each day to Adeje, Egborode and Okwijemo to pursue their nursery, primary and secondary education”.

According to him, “The oldest man, Pa Michael Akpewren, secretary, Pastor Dickson Emakpor, women leader (Mrs Josephine Idjerhe, youth leader, Mr. Lawrence Idjerhe and other members of the commu-

nity expressed their grievances to the delegation that the Okwijorogu community has been neglected by the Delta State, including the Federal Government, for a long time”.

Urieh said the villagers claimed government only remember them when there was an election, adding: “In other words, the people of Okwijorogu community never enjoyed dividends of democracy”.

They, therefore, called on Dr Uduaghan to come to their aid by building primary and secondary schools in their community to enable their children to receive quality education.

“Apart from the educational challenges facing the community, the people of Okwijorogu community also cried out to the state government to provide a primary healthcare centre for the community to enable them have access to treatment for the physically ill and a job opportunity for the youths,” he added.

He assured the people that they would brief the Governor appropriately on their findings

and the Governor would respond to their request.

Twist Meanwhile, as the people await response from Governor Uduaghan, there is a turn in the story. Delta Women is accusing a lawmaker in the state of frustrating the effort by the state government to approve the building of a befitting school for Okuijorogu.

It was gathered that the Urieh delegation also forwarded its report to the Delta State House of Assembly and the Speaker, Victor Ochei, in turn, passed it over to the lawmaker, representing the constituency for endorsement of the project in the state’s 2013 Budget.

A source close to the lawmaker, however, said his actions were, do doubt, misinterpreted by some persons, as he had no objection to the location of development projects in his constituency. The source said the lawmaker had met with the Speaker, Ochei and the required legislative backing for the project is not an issue.

Delta flood: NEMA registers 8790 IDPs, delivers relief materials

A

S more local government councils and communities are affected in the devastating flood in Delta State, a team from the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, has so far registered 8790 internally displaced persons as at the weekend who have been squatting in various Internally Displaced Peoples Camps (IDPCs). In the state While presenting relief materials to the victims of the flood in the state, the Director Gen-

eral of NEMA, Muhammad Sani-Sidi said that more camps would be established to accommodate the increasing numbers of displaced people.

Represented by the Deputy Director Relief, Mr. Mike Adeyanju, NEMA boss said emergency workers are in the state for rapid response assessment where they discovered that the water level in the coastal communities had continued to rise, thereby affecting more persons and posing a threat to lives and

properties.

He further disclosed that the agency hired boats to evacuate trapped person at Okpai Obeze, Okpai Umuaguru, Akarai Ekiti, Azagba , Power line and Forest Guard communities to nearby IDP camps.

While presenting relief materials to the victims of the flood in the state, Mr. Adeyanju said the agency is involved in the administration of the camps and offering technical assistance to local emergency workers and volunteers.

24 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2012

Bank directors: Complementing reforms with credit bureaux comments and recommendations by participants at the 2011 BDAN Forum on how to successfully implement the cashless policy, the Association issued a statement where it advocated among other things, regular assessment and review of the policy.

According to BDAN VicePresident and a Director of UBA PLC, Mrs. Foluke Abdulrazaq, it would have been 10 months since the commencement of the cashless policy by November.

She said there have been some changes to the policy, which is in line with our recommendations. Mrs. Abdulrazaq pointed out that since the Council advocated for regular assessment and review of the policy, the Forum will be used to achieve this.

BY BABAJIDE KOMOLAFE

B

Why Credit Bureaus?

Also speaking on the 2012 Forum, Mr. Yemi Idowu, General Secretary of the Association, and a Director of Sterling Bank Plc said the focus of the banks now is growth having overcome the challenges of the global financial crises, which led to the exit of many banking institutions across the world and in Nigeria. In BDAN, we believe that the focus should not be only how to achieve growth, but sustainable growth, and this is where the role of credit bureaus comes in. He noted further that the major factor responsible for the crisis suffered by the industry in the last four years was the incidence of nonperforming loans, people not honoring their loan obligations. “Hence, the Association believes that going forward and to achieve sustainable growth, there is the need for industry mechanism to address this problem. With credit bureaus,

Kuku, BDAN President

,

ANK Directors Association of Nigeria (BDAN) has identified the services of credit bureaus as critical complements to the ongoing banking sector reforms.

The President of the Association, Olor ’ogun Dr. Sonny Kuku OFR said the Association believes that the services of credit bureaus will complement the on-going banking sector reform measures of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). “We have devoted the 2012 edition of the annual BDAN Stakeholders Forum to examine the linkage between credit bureaus and the banking industry, thus we have chosen the theme of the 2012 edition to be “How Banks can leverage on Credit Bureau Services to accelerate Growth”, he said.

Kuku, who is also the Chairman Ecobank Nigeria, further said that experiences of other countries show that credit bureaus offer services which if properly harnessed can minimize the occurrence of banking crises and facilitate industry growth. He concluded saying that Nigerian banks should also tap into the opportunities offered by credit bureaus, and one of the ways to achieve this is to ensure that top decision makers in the industry are fully acquainted with these opportunities, and thus promote the use of credit bureau services.

AMCON is a curative measure; the credit bureau sub sector is a preventative measure. And since prevention is better than cure, it means that more efforts and resources should be devoted to engaging the services of credit bureaus

,

the problem of nonperforming loans will be minimized and nipped in the bud. While the CBN has set up the Asset Management Company of Nigeria (AMCON) to buy nonperforming loans of banks, the services of credit bureaus will however ensure that nonperforming loans do not occur or is reduced to the barest minimum.” He said while AMCON is a curative measure, the credit bureau sub sector is a preventative measure.

And since prevention is better than cure, it means that more efforts and resources should be devoted to engaging the services of credit bureaus. Mr. Yemi Idowu pointed out that the above is what the Council seeks to achieve through the

2012 BDAN The Forum, which is scheduled to hold November 15th 2012, will feature a keynote address by the CBN Governor, Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi. The Forum will be chaired by Chief John Odeyemi, MFR, Chairman, OAU Investment Company, former Chairman, Ecobank Nigeria Plc and former Vice President, BDAN. The Guest speaker at the occasion is Mr Taiwo Ayedun, Managing Director/Chief Executive CR Services (credit bureau) Limited.

It will also feature a review of the topic and decisions reached at the 2011 edition of the forum which focused on “The future of the Banking Industry”, with emphasis on the cash less policy. Based on

Capacity Building for Directors BDAN is the umbrella body of bank directors. It was established in 1997 to provide a forum for improving the knowledge and the competence of bank directors, thereby promoting honourable practice within the banking industry in Nigeria. The Association also contributes to the development of the banking industry through recommendations and comments on policy and topical issues in the industry.

As part of measures to achieve the above, the Association organizes an Annual Stakeholders Forum which brings together executive and non-executive directors of banks, officials of other financial institutions, regulatory authorities, professional bodies and executives of other leading companies in Nigeria.

Among other things, the Forum provides opportunity for banking professionals to network and also share thoughts on the theme of the Forum.

Among other things BDAN acts as organ of communication for and to represent members and their various banks in any or all of their relationship with government, ministries, departments, agents, local/ public authorities and trade Association, to afford facilities for conferring with and making known the views of the members of the Association in regard to actual or proposed legislation or any other matter directly or indirectly affecting their interest.

BRIEF World Customer Service week:

Unity Bank commits to quality

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s part of activities to mark the World Customer Service Week, Unity Bank Plc has again restated its commitment to its customers and meeting the yearnings of its entire stakeholders through value creation.

This commitment was reiterated by the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the bank, Ado Y. Wanka, represented by the Executive Director, Lagos and We s t Lanre Fagbohun while speaking at the interactive session with the media in Lagos.

According to him, the bank has put in place measures to allow for superior customer experience as never been seen before in the banking industry.

Some of these measures he went on to say, include excellent security measures to ensure that on-line banking and transactions’ safety are guaranteed and uncompromised in a bid to safeguard customer identity in support of the cashless policy of the Government.

He said “ without an adequate security measure put in place, there is no way that Unity Bank would have been awarded the certification of International Standard Organization (ISO) for information security and we are proud to say that we are one of the four banks that have this certification in the industry”. Unity Bank was the first deposit money bank in Nigeria using the ‘BANKS’ application software to upgrade its IT infrastructure to Oracle 11g with Web Logic.

The upgrade was carried out to guarantee long term data integrity and confidentiality of the bank’s customers’ information and records as well as high level data resilience” He also spoke on other initiatives/products that the bank has in the market such as the recent launch of the three (3) variants of MasterCard; MasterCard Verve Naira, Holy Trip MasterCard Dollar for Muslim and Christian pilgrims and MasterCard generic Dollar, which is an indication that Unity Bank has joined the prestigious league of MasterCard Principal Member Banks worldwide and that its membership license empowers the Bank to sponsor other banks in Nigeria who may desire affiliate membership license from MasterCard Worldwide.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2012— 25

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26 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2012

Etisalat offers N1bn airtime in free credit promo STORIES BY PRINCEWILL EKWUJURU

ETISALAT has emerged with a N1 billion airtime offer in celebration of Nigeria’s independence to reward its subscribers monthly to call all networks.

The promotion which gives new and existing subscribers 50 percent and 20 percent of all their recharges for 30 days respectively commences on October 2 and runs till the end of the year.

Speaking at the press briefing to announce the offer, Director, Products and Services, Lucas Dada explained that

the revamped 9ja free credit promo is the company’s way of offering freedom to its customers as part of the country’s celebration of the 52nd independence anniversary.

“We pride ourselves as being a network that gives its subscribers the freedom to talk without any limitations and this was marked by our launch into the Nigerian market in 2008 with our famous 0809uchoose campaign, offering our customers the freedom to choose their unique set of phone numbers and since then we have kept to our promise of delivering innovative and world class products

and services, promotions and events which continue to change the lives of all our customers,” he said.

Director, Marketing Segments and Strategy, Oluwole Rawa said that having spent about four years in Nigeria, the amount of support and encouragement that Nigerians have given the company has been nothing short of inspiring. He said, “Within a span of almost four years, Etisalat has grown an impressive subscriber base of over 14 million which is remarkable in terms of growth compared to any networks in Nigeria”.

He added that as a result of

the achievements of the past four years, Etisalat seeks to reward its subscribers with the biggest airtime offer in the country. Through this promo, Etisalat is offering both new and existing subscribers 50 percent and 20 percent bonus credit respectively for total recharges over a 30-day period for calls to all networks. Customers also get a 10 percent bonus when they register using the Etisalat e-top up. He further urged Nigerians to seize the opportunity to be a part of this exciting new offer.

BRIEF

CSR: Shoprite donates to Little Saints

S

hoprite’s as part of its cor porate social responsibility initiative tagged HelpChange-a-Life has donated to Little Saints’ Orphanage for girls in Ikeja, Lagos.

The donation, a token of one hundred thousand naira (N100, 000) was handed over to the management of the charity home by the retail store management a fortnight ago as part of their contribution to better the life of lessprivileged in the society.

Speaking during the handing over ceremony in Lagos, the Branch Manager, Ikeja Store, Mr. Linus Eshiet said it is a big delight to be presenting this gift to an institution that has done so wonderfully well in nurturing future leaders and mothers.

He further enthused that “ we may not know how the administrators of this orphanage manage with the girls; but we sure understand the needs of the girls – their welfare demands special attention and feminine personal care.”Receiving the gift on behalf of the orphanage was the Assistant administrator Victoria Amos.

Guinness celebrates Arthur Guinness, fetes consumers

G From left: Linus Eshiet, Branch Manager; Children from the Little Saint Orphanage; Victoria Amos, Assistant Adminstrator of the home; Bridget Agbor, Trainee Manager Shoprite Ikeja during a visit of Shoprite to the home.

Indomie Heroes Award holds this month I

NDEPENDENCE Day Award for Heroes of Nigeria, a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)initiative of Dufil Prima Foods Plc, makers of Indomie noodles has been slated to hold this month.

The Award which holds October 13,2012 had Mr. Temitope Ashiwaju, Public Relation manager of Dufil say that the 2012 edition of the Award promises to be exciting with top government functionaries and captains of industries in

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attendance.

His words, “I am very proud and excited to announce that the 5th edition of our CSR based initiative-the Indomie Independence Day Award for Heroes of Nigeria through which we recognise and reward heroism and bravery in young Nigerians who have shown exceptional character worthy of emulation by their peers will hold on Saturday 13, October 2012 in Lagos” he declared.

Ashiwaju revealed that the

three winners were carefully selected out of the 13 finalists after thorough screening and scrutiny in line with the set criteria by the respected panel of Judges for this year ’s edition of the award under the distinguished chairmanship of Nigeria’s foremost Poet and Artiste, Chief Jimi Solanke.

Other members of the panel of Judges include Prof. Karen King Aribisala of the Department of English, University of Lagos, Angela Ege Ochuko from UNICEF, a leading motivational speaker

Mr. Niyi Adesanya of Fifth Gear Consulting, BusinessDay Editor, Phillip Isakpa and Graham Stohhard, Headmaster Lagos Preparatory School. The three lucky winners for this year ’s edition of the award are expected to win the sum of N1,000,000.00, N750,000.00 and N500,000.00 worth of scholarship respectively. The three winners for this year will bring to 15, the total number of awardees that have benefited from this initiative.

uinness Nigeria Plc has celebrated Arthur Guinness founder of the Guinness Brand as it fetes consumers to the over 250 years old brand.

The event which is a global event to celebrate the founder of the Guinness is celebrated world wide as a way of commemorating the vision of Arthur Guinness.

According to the Managing Director/Chief Executive, Guinness Nigeria Plc, Mr. Seni Adetu, the Arthur Guinness Day on the calendar of the company is as important as the Guinness brand itself.

“It is no doubt that for over 253 years a brand like Guinness has transcend all the challenges of a product life circle and now we are still celebrating the vision of its founder. It simply shows that it was a good concept in the first place. Today, we celebrate greatness and vision of a great man Arthur Guinness” Seni said.

Also, the Marketing Director, Guinness Nigeria Plc, Mr. Austin Ufomba thanked their numerous consumers in Nigeria who have continued to patronize Guinness products over the years.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2012 — 27

Chidi Mokeme is Gulder Ultimate Search host

By BENJAMIN NJOKU

A

fter nine years of dazzling millions of television viewers in Nigeria as the first host of the Gulder Ultimate Search, Nollywood play boy actor, Chidi Mokeme is back as the anchor of this year’s reality television show.

Gulder Ultimate Search 9 finalists were unveiled last Sunday, at the selection in Lagos.

At a glamorous final selection party held inside the New Expo Hall of Eko Hotel and Suites, Mokeme was announced as the host of this year ’s edition by the event compere, Cool 96.9 FM on-air personality, Freeze.

Also at the event, the last 12 finalists were unveiled.

They are: Female: Kofya Brown, Bornford Patience, Ayo Ojueromi, Uzor Osimkpa, Udodi Onyinyechukwu, and Ezeh Priscillia. Others are: Male: Ujam Emmanuel, Nuhu Haruna, Ogbuefi Michael, Ifet Iniobong, Ojezele Paschal and Adah James.

This year, over 30,000 young and agile Nigerians registered to participate for the search. They all went through several physical and mental exercises at locations in Owerri, Benin, Makurdi and Lagos. Out of these, 30 contestants were selected and invited to Lagos for the final selection process.

Last night, 12 were selected to proceed to the Usaka Forest in Obot Akara Local Government area of Akwa Ibom State, where this year’s edition of Gulder Ultimate Search will hold.

The GUS 9 winner will walk

away with a cash prize of N9 million, N500,000 wardrobe allowance and a brand new SUV worth N10 million.

This is in addition to the bragging rights of being referred to as the Ultimate Man or Woman, with its numerous benefits. Last year, it was Darey Art Alade and Bob Manuel Udokwu, who jointly hosted the show at Ososo Forest in Akoko Edo, Edo State.

For this year, apart from Mokeme, three past winners of Gulder Ultimate Search will be playing the role of Gatekeepers.

They are Dominic Mudabai (Gulder Ultimate Search 4

winner), Michael Nwachukwu (Gulder Ultimate Search 5 winner) and Christopher Okagbue (Gulder Ultimate Search 8 winner). Mokeme anchored the first two seasons of the reality show (2004 and 2005) and Austin ‘Tintin’ Imevbore, a former onair personality, also anchored Season 3 (2006).

Bob-Manuel Udokwu has been the show anchor for the past five seasons (2007 – 2011),

Chris Brown dumps girl friend over Rihanna A

•Mokeme while Dare Art-Alade coanchored Season 8, which was held in 2011, with Udokwu.

fter weeks of speculation, Chris Brown has finally broken up with his girlfriend, Karrueche Tran, explaining, “I don’t want to see her hurt over my friendship with Rihanna.”

The singer said the broke up has something to do with his relationship with Rihanna.

“I have decided to be single to focus on my career. I love Karrueche very much but I don’t want to see her hurt over my friendship with Rihanna,” adding that “I’d rather be single allowing us to both be happy in our lives.”

The announcement came after Brown and Rihanna were spotted together at the Jay Z concert in Barclays Center, where Brown put his arm around his ex and cozied up to her throughout the night. The two had been hanging around each other a lot lately and did some hardcore flirting at the MTV VMAs.

How Jim Iyke’s Jamaican girlfriend, Keturah lost two brothers to police’s bullets ...denies giving birth

J

amaican girlfriend of Nollywood ‘bad boy’ Jim Iyke, Keturah Hamilton is at the moment not a happy woman. She recently lost her two brothers to the cold hands of death on the same day no thanks to the Jamaican police for this.

The model bitterly told a Jamaican publication that the police, which ought to protect her brothers, have allegedly killed them.

“I am aghast at the institutionalized killing of innocent civilians that seems to define the Jamaican police force, the wanton destruction of innocent lives under the guise of trying to prevent crimes. How can you prevent crime when you are actively

C M Y K

committing the same crime against people who should ordinarily depend on you for your safety,” Keturah queried.

Keturah said that she felt bad that she has to lose her brothers; Sheldon and Nicholas McKenzie in the most horrendous manner.

Narrating how they were allegedly killed by the police, Keturah stated that, “the police claimed they heard a gunshot in the house where my brothers were, and without attempting to investigate, they barged in, confronted my brothers and without rhyme or reason, shot them dead and in order to conceal their identity, took off their badges and ran away after they realized the gravity of what they had done.

“The very system that is supposed to protect my brothers failed them. The police are deliberately slowing down investigations into the killing of my brothers, the affected officers have not been detained, and they were only placed on administrative assignment.”

However, debunking the insinuation that she has given birth to a baby, Keturah said “I was not pregnant; neither did I give birth to a baby.”

She also admitted that her boy friend, Jim Iyke has been very supportive to her during her trying times. “Jim and I are still very much together.

When my brothers were killed, Jim was in Barbados and we talked every day. He was very

supportive and his love helped carry me through that difficult period. I was in Nigeria recently and Jim would be in New York soon, so all the

•Jim Iyke and Keturah

people who don’t wish us well, I have one thing to say: sorry for all your negativity, Jim and I are still together.”

28—Vanguard, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2012

11 DAYS TO GO

How we ‘ll drive Mimiko out of Ondo — Akeredolu The Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN candidate in the forthcoming gubernatorial election in Ondo State, Rotimi Akeredolu (SAN) in an interactive session with journalists in Lagos shared his thoughts on issues surrounding his emergence, governance in Ondo and his plans to enthrone a new political culture in the Sunshine State. Excerpts: OUR emergence as the ACN candidate was shrouded in controversy leading to the exit of some of your fellow aspirants from the party. So, how do you react to insinuations that you may not be your own man?

I wish to place on record that I have always been my own man. The assumption in some quarters that I was handpicked is not correct. I served as Attorney general of Ondo State and I know Ondo State very well. It is also instructive to point out that when I was president of Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and I was championing a number of campaigns, aimed at curbing government excesses, was anybody using us? So all along, I have always been my own man at every given opportunity and at every point in time.

On the issue of my emergence, I want to say that the process that produced me was fair because all the aspirants signed up to it. No exception. Every political party has its process of selection which I believe is democratic enough. If at the end of the day some people feel aggrieved, which I believe is normal, well. But we have continued to talk to them and most of them are now with us. If we have one or two who felt they must eventually go, there is nothing we can do about that. It is politics. It is personal ambition. So for me, nobody can fault the process of my emergence because it was thorough and we were all part of it. So by and large, I believe the Action Congress of Nigeria that chose me has made the best choice for Ondo State ahead of the governorship election.

Your opponent who is the incumbent Governor kickstarted his campaign in your hometown with a mammoth crowd in attendance. Does that not sound ominous for you?

The crowd you saw were people they brought from outside. People from Owo never came out. They brought in people from all the 18 local C M Y K

governments to Owo in many buses. We all know, crowd doesn’t vote. We are unperturbed because we know people are behind us.

Even with the crowd that was brought to Owo, if you ask them to vote, we know that over 70 percent of them will vote for us. You can bring people to a rally. You can drive people to a rally and you can more or less bribe people to come to a political campaign.

They were more or less forcing people to come out.

13 men, We have been out andwho we have seen crowd too, those who will attend rallies from 9 am till 11 pm without being given a Kobo. Those are the real crowd. Those are the people we have. If you do your research in Owo, you will confirm what I’m saying and you will discover that the crowd was brought there.

increased and many of these unemployed are voters. How do you expect those people to vote for a government that does not provide them with jobs? I tell you many of those you see in their rallies were there because they are forced.

Some, out of inducement and some are there for sightseeing. Some go there to collect vests and money.

In the heart of Ondo state people, Mimiko is out already. You can stay here in Lagos, watch television and want rule how ndowe are start toto imagine going to defeat him because of the crowd you see. But I don’t have any doubt in my mind that he is going to lose.

And if we are to look at it critically again, are the people of Ondo State foolish?

They are not. I mean we are talking about Oba Adesida Road. The road has been there all the while, with street lights hat factors do you think on it and then you remove can make the them and put other ones. At incumbent lose the coming what cost? There is no project

W

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Y

BY ABUTU AGADA

On the issue of my emergence, I want to say that the process that produced me was fair because all the aspirants signed up to it. No exception. Every political party has its process of selection which I believe is democratic enough

election?

Mimiko has already lost the election. He can never win any election in Ondo State and that is why he is running from pillar to post. This is because he knows quite well that he has lost the forthcoming election. And how did he lose? It has been said that if you have a government that has nothing as achievement in four years, how do you expect people to vote for such government? In four years, he started one or two roads, none is completed.

And I have said while campaigning that he can never complete any of those roads because I will be the one to complete them. I’m standing on that. Again, you have a government where the army of unemployed has

,

today he can commission except the markets which are responsibilities of the local governments. And this is someone who has refused to conduct election at local government level. And the markets, nobody is even going there. Just drive through Ondo State and you will see that there are no people in those markets.

The other one, you force people to go and be building town halls. What has the state government got to do with the building of town halls? What are the people there to do?

These are what people could raise money among themselves to build. And in fact some of these town halls are already collapsing. In Opete for instance, a side of the town hall wall has

*Akeredolu collapsed. So this is a government that has not achieved anything, except hardship. The economy is grounded. How do you expect people to retain it? You need to go to Ondo State, the whole place is dry.

Specifically, what are your programmes for the people of the state?

We have sold to the people of Ondo State, a five cardinal programme. These include education, technology, agriculture, entrepreneurship and infrastructure, and most importantly, the rural areas.

H

ow did you receive the endorsement of the governor by some prominent citizens like Dr. Tunji Braithwaite, Dr. Fredrick Fasehun and Mrs Ganiat Fawehinmi, among others?

Endorsement don’t win election, especially by people who are out of the woods. Who is Braithwaite in Ondo State politics? Nobody. Who is Fasehun in politics of Ondo State? Nobody. Yes Ganiat Fawehinmi can ride on the goodwill of her husband, Chief Gani Fawehinmi. But I can tell you that if the husband were to be alive, he would have supported me. So I will rather prefer having the spirit of the husband who is no more rather than that of the wife who is around. Yes, when Chief Gani Fawehinmi died, the governor gave him a befitting burial and we also know that he established a diagnostic centre which he named after him.

How do you react to insinuations that the political configuration of the state does not favour you, given that your base, Owo does not have much population?

I am very sure that ACN as a party, must have considered

all these permutations before making a choice of a candidate from Owo. And I want to say categorically, that no one is better placed than a candidate from Owo. In a state like ours, there are so many fallacies being dished out to the public and because you repeat them all over again, it seems to bring about some elements of truth. Of course, Akoko is an integral part of Ondo North senatorial district and it has four local governments with 54 percent voting population while Owo has two local governments with about 46 percent voting strength. So the figures are not determined by the number of local governments. Secondly, the relationship between Owo and Akoko has always been that, if you rub my back, I will rub your back.

The role of First Lady is now said to be an abused phenomenon. Should you succeed would your wife follow the present pattern of abuse?

It’s quite unfortunate that my wife is not here. But I can tell you that I’m married to a person that is highly political.

She is somebody who does not believe in wasting people’s resources. So we are going to have a first lady who is not going to waste people’s resources. I know that for sure. She runs an NGO that address women issues. She is the President of Breast Cancer Association of Nigeria (BECAN). She already has an idea of what to do. It is not that when she gets there that she would start thinking of what to do. I’m sure her programme may include “let us all jog for a week. Let’s have breast cancer examination for all women”, among others.

DAY, OCTOBER 9, 2012 — 29 Vanguard,, TUESDAY

Soon Nigerians will no longer accept excuses — Daniel FORMER Governor of Ogun State, Otunba Gbenga Daniel is disturbed by the nation’s stunted growth 52 years after independence and says that Nigerians, in the next few years, will no longer accept excuses for nonperformance from their leaders. Excerpts:

W

HAT are your reflections on Nigeria at 52?

The general feeling of a number of our people is that as a country after over 50 years of self governance, we could have done a lot better. When we also compare a few other countries who attained their independence about the same time and what they have been able to achieve, given the amount of resources that have accrued to the country, we would realise that we could have done a lot better.

It is also quite unique that we are one of the few countries in the world that have gone through a civil war and have remained one. There is something unique in that and I think that is what has been carrying us along.

By and large, the totality of the views that we can put together is that Nigerians in the next few years will no longer accept any excuse or excuses for nonperformance from our leaders.

And I think it is important that the ruling class get their acts together, stop undue radicalism and ensure that they govern the people well. There isn’t anything that anyone can do privately that is not going to be in the public domain sooner than later. I think if the ruling class understands that, it will quickly get its acts together. If that does not happen,

I’m afraid, I can’t guarantee the reaction of Nigerians. People have spoken about the Arab Springs, what happened in Libya, in Egypt, which is going on in Syria and people have deluded themselves that it cannot happen here.

Where did things go wrong?

A number of people have said and I probably wish to agree that our biggest assets have become our greatest liability. The biggest asset of our country being the resources that accrue from oil has

,

BY BASHIR ADEFAKA

So we are a country with near zero productive capacity. And it just appears to me that until when our people, as it were, come together to the fact that they have to begin to work as if there is no oil, I think it is then that people’s potentials can actually be exploited and so on.

But having said that, we should make possible a good management of our economy and we ought to appreciate that the oil will not be there for ever.

It appears that the leadership

We are a country with near zero productive capacity. And it just appears to me that until when our people, as it were, come together to the fact that they have to begin to work as if there is no oil, I think it is then that people’s potentials can actually be exploited

become a problem to us. Our people have become guilty of what is commonly referred to as conspicuous consumption without any productive capacity as a nation. This is why Nigerians have refused to think out of the box.

We are a country that depends entirely on the natural endowment that we have, without any value added. Even the crude oil that we drill, we can’t even refine it to solve the immediate needs of our people.

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and followership have lost the connecting point that is key in turning things around for the better. Do you think things will ever get better in Nigeria ?

Some people have said that God resides here. Our people are very religious. The people who are Muslims are deeply religious; the Christians are deeply religious and I also believe in the efficacy of prayers.

There is no doubt in my mind that God is very merciful to us in Nigeria and what is not clear to

*Daniel anybody is how much longer God will continue to look and we continue to bungle, day in day out.

So I am not one of those people who believe that there is no hope.

I think there is hope because what needs to be done is very simple. Just do things correctly, get our values right, demonstrate some level of responsibility, show capacity and Nigerians are a people that will easily follow a good leader if they see one.

There is indeed a challenge between leadership and followership, such that followership have become completely disoriented and disappointed with leadership.

Even when good leadership emerge, followership don’t even know how to keep to it. So, the tendency is that if for instance you have 36 governors, the

followership believe that all the 36 are corrupt. If two or three people are doing the correct thing and everybody says everybody is corrupt, then there is nobody who will come out again. I pray that God in His infinite mercies will intervene in the affairs of our country and give us a guide to better change.

Do you have any cause to regret ever coming out to participate in politics ?

These are issues I will rather leave to posterity. Now, it suffices to say that God gave us the wherewithal and enabled me to turn around the state and do things so much that everybody is talking about those things I did. What I had done in Ogun State is just to use Ogun resources to serve the people.

And I have no regret having done what I did.

We must guard our unity jealously—Ex-Gov Fasanya Colonel Moses Fasanya, former military governor of Abia and Ondo states spoke to Vanguard on the state of Nigeria at 52. Excerpts:

BY BASHIR ADEFAKA

5

2 YEARS after independence, how would you say we have fared as a country?

Honestly speaking, we are not yet where we are supposed to be as a sovereign nation. But that is not to discourage us.

Our collective responsibility as a nation can take us to our desired destination. And by this I mean the entire citizenry of Nigeria should have that very hope, that willingness to transform our fatherland to a greater nation.

How close are we and what steps should we take to becoming a nation?

As a system we are asleep.

We get our priorities wrong and until we get our priorities right, we cannot make headway. How do I mean? For example, we dissipate energy on minute things. When for instance you talk of ethnicity, it is not the issue now. We only have two classes of people in C M Y K

*Fasanya Nigeria today: whether you are from Borno State or you are from Bayelsa State, if both of you are poor, you belong to the same class. And poverty has no respect for tribe, ethnicity whatever. So we need to wake up from our slumber and work towards greatness. And to do that we need to work as a nation not as all these issues

of ethnicity that are really taking us backward. You are talking about an Igbo man, a Fulani man, a Yoruba man.

That is not the issue now. We want dedicated leadership, we want patriotism, we want people who are focused on making Nigeria a great nation.

So, the issue of where somebody comes from should no longer debar us.

I’ll give you an example even though during the military regime, when General Murtala died, the whole nation mourned and that showed a focus as a nation. Anything outside that would be backpedalling. So, we need national re-orientation as a nation. We need to know where we are going as Nigerians and how to get there. Where you come from is not issue, we need collective effort towards making Nigeria the real One Nation One People. Yes, we have had terrible situations in the country but our unity we

must guard jealously. We’ve had an unfortunate Civil War and that should be the last in our nation. No nation can go to war to fight and remain the same.

So, as far as I am concerned, we should not allow religious issues, ethnicity and all that to debar us from focusing on developing Nigeria. We have all the wherewithal; human and material resources to develop and make Nigeria a great nation. So, nobody should tell us to go our difference ways! Which way?

After the Civil War, we cannot afford to separate. That is the truth. In fact, I’m saying with every sense of responsibility to the future generation of this country that there can be no peaceful separation. Instead, it will result to violent disintegration. So, we have to be very, very careful. Whatever we think, say or do, we should be mindful of the unity of Nigeria.

Take for instance the recent development in Nigeria, a lot of things have been left for long

without being attended to until they blew out of proportion. I think it is time for us to come around and sit down as a people.Today, the greatest threat to our security is the unemployment of our children who have graduated for years and are not employed. All other things you are talking about are secondary. As long as you are able to get that solved, other problems will be resolved and things will take shape.

On speculations that the military might return to power Nobody should be talking about military intervention. I think that era is gone and gone for good. We as a nation need to take our proper position in the comity of nations and it is only by democratic governance that we can attain that. Mistake of the past must not be committed again. When you make a mistake once, you should correct that mistake. You should not be practicing mistake. When you practice mistake, it is deliberate and it’s no longer a mistake.

30—Vanguard , TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2012

Ford’s time in Nigeria has come – Maduka

BY THEODORE OPARA

Kia launches Independence bonanza

T

HE President/CEO, Coscharis Group, Dr. Cosmos Maduka has stated that the time has come to position the Ford brand in its rightful place as a leading auto brand in Nigeria.

Dr. Maduka who was speaking during the opening of the Ford Showroom in Lekki, Lagos, described the facility as the best in the country and sub-Sahara Africa, adding that it doubles as the company ’s Corporate Headquarters in Nigeria.

“Our conviction is that now is the time to position the Ford brand in its rightful leadership place and emphasize our ambition to remain the auto market leader in Nigeria as we believe so much in the Ford pay off “Go further”, he said.

According to Dr. Maduka, though the investment on the new facility was bigger than the Nigerian market size in Nigeria presently, they are looking beyond the present.

The Coscharis boss who was recently honoured with a national award of CON predicted that the next world economic miracle will take place in Nigeria. “We are only celebrating our successful past as a company, but more importantly, we are looking into the future. A future that starts now with the opening of this Ultra Modern Ford Showroom.

He further noted that it has always been the vision of his company to build an institution that will be timeless in relevance, hence their mission to deliver excellent products and services to customers by giving them the highest value for their money.

The Coscharis boss described the new facility as one of the steps to

K

realise their vision, adding that “as part of the company ’s corporate social responsibility, it will plough back resources into the immediate and larger society, while ensuring that the employers have a sense of pride and fulfillment. The Ford showroom is a world class showroom, with the new Ford facility comprising 38 car lifts, two wash bays, spray booth, 26 tool boxes etc.

Looking back to 2001 when they started Ford dealership in Nigeria, Dr. Maduka disclosed that tremendous progress has been made with the brand in the last ten year when they were selling just 100 vehicles annually compare to now when the company is selling over 2000 vehicle within the same period. “we are systematically making in-road into the country with the Ford brand as we are now doing over 2000 vehicles in one year,” he said.

Despite the progress, the Coscharis boss said they have not scratched

the surface of the market yet. According to him the future for Ford in Nigeria remains very bright given the strategies and plans being laid out by Coscharis to achieve their goals.

“We are working very hard on customers satisfaction. We have been strategising on after sales as Ford is the only brand in the country that is offering extended after sale service,” he stated.

He noted that if Ford can supply them enough products, they would capture more market share with the state of the arts products from Ford.

So far, he said, plans are on to introduce the quick lane and quick parts program aimed at

making spare parts more accessible to their customers. This, he said, would make it possible for customers to have the genuine parts to fix their vehicles, no matter the location in the country.

Also speaking at the occasion, Director of Operations, Ford Export and Growth, Mr. Hal Feder who led the powerful delegation from Ford headquarters in United States of America to Nigeria commended Coscharis Group for its efforts at driving the Ford brand to the forefront in Nigeria auto market.

He attributed Ford’s position as one of the leading brands in the world auto market to the quality of products and

planning.

“The key to our success is planning. We act as a team. We have great new fresh products,” he said.

He disclosed that Ford had invested about $60 million in parts alone in Dubai which will also be serving the Nigerian market. Also speaking at the occasion, Mr. Ezio Tuniz, Regional Manager, Sub-Sahara Africa, Ford Export and Growth Operations, said “Ford vehicles-passenger and commercial – all embody our One Ford Plan in which we source from our global network of suppliers to guarantee our Nigerian customers the high quality they expect from their vehicles.”

IA Motors, has launched a new promotion scheme tagged “Everybody is a winner”with exciting gifts to be won including LCD Televisions, Home theatre systems, DVD players etc.

The Independence anniversary promotion according to Kia is aimed at rewarding Kia’s teeming customers this season, and would run through the month of October in celebration of Nigeria’s Independence.

The promotion would ensure that every buyer of any Kia wins an instant prize. According to Kayode Adejumo, Marketing Manager Kia Motors. “Once a buyer purchases a Kia model he picks a scratch card right there and goes home with any gift found on the scratch card.”

According to the Chief Commercial Officer of Kia, Mr Sandeep Malhotra “This is our unique way of appreciating our loyal customers in Nigeria for their dedication to the KIA brand and to commemorate this year’s Independence celebrations.”

“Our customers are at the heart of our brand and we aim to continuously improve the quality of our service and reward them for their loyal patronage.” he says.

Transport operator defrauds TUC of N11m

BY VICTOR AHIUMAYOUNG & KUNLE KALEJAYE

O

NE of the Private operators (name withheld) contracted by Trade Union Congress of

Dr. Cosmos Maduka, President, Coscharis Group receiving award for excellence from Hal Feder, Director of Operations, Ford Export and Growth

Nigeria, TUC, to run its Transport Company, with a fleet of 100 high capacity buses, has defrauded it of not less than N11 million barely six months into the contract.

It will be recalled that TUC appointed two operators to run its transport company when it acquired new capacity buses.

Investigation revealed that the operator printed a fake ticket other than the one approved by both parties and was using it to enrich himself to the detriment of the umbrella body for senior staff associations in the country.

Vanguard gathered that the fraud was blown opened when some officials of TUC who boarded some of the buses under the said operator like every other

passengers were shocked that the conductors were issuing different ticket other than the approved one.

The leadership of TUC was said to have asked the auditor to look through the books only to discover that the operator had been defrauding it of several million of naira.

Confirming the fraud, President-General of TUC, Comrade Peter Esele, said though the operator had agreed to refund the money, his services had been dispensed off.

According to him, “Lagbus Asset Management Limited, LAGBUS, gives ticket, somebody somewhere gets another tickets and use that ticket for people to board. So, we don’t get the money, the money goes to his pocket. Then the driver that is driving

the bus noticed that they were using wrong tickets for the bus, did he stop it? NO. The conductor did he stop anything? NO.” “What we did was suddenly, we woke and told auditor to audit. We found out that over N11 million was missing. But what I am telling you now is between the driver, the operator, and even the conductor. So we told them to suspend the operation for a while until we decide on what we want to do with the operator. You cannot believe that we pay these drivers N40,000 a month?

“Normally, the operator has a kind of franchise, so the business arm of TUC pays the drivers through the operator. The operator also goes ahead to pay the driver 50 per cent of their salaries."

Vanguard , TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2012—31

Nigeria very important to Volvo says SMT boss V

ISITING Chief Executive Officer of SMT Europe, authorised dealer for Volvo construction equipment, Volvo trucks and Volvo Penta, Mr. Jerome Barioz has described Nigeria as a very important market to Volvo.

Mr. Barioz, who was in Nigeria with a high powered Volvo team from Europe said, although Volvo has presence in most African countries, it still sees Nigeria as a very important market to Volvo.

“We have very strong presence in many African countries including Congo, Gabon, Cameroon, Ghana, Cote D’voire, Liberia, Togo to name but a few but Nigeria is very important to us and we would like to increase our business here,” Barioz stated.

SMT Europe has a partnership with ATC Nigeria which is also authorised dealer for Volvo produts in Nigeria. It pledged it support to ATC during the recent visit to Nigeria and commended the efforts of the ATC Nigeria so far.

C M Y K

Said he, “Our partners are trying to understand us the more. We opened a new centre in Abuja and it is a huge investment in Nigeria and the most advanced.”

Volvo according to him is spreading its network in Nigeria with presence in Lagos, Port Harcourt, and Abuja while at the same time training and retraining technicians on the latest technology from Volvo.

Barioz explained that the company attaches much emphasis on training to help their customers have better understanding of the products.

He observed that opportunities abound in Nigeria for Volvo, pointing out that Nigeria market will develop fast as Volvo has the right products and right backup to lead the market.

Speaking on his areas of strength, the SMT boss said the service they offer, their trained staff, efficiency of products and low fuel consumption of their products stand them out.

Continuing, he said, our trucks are very versatile and strong and the

customers can attest to this.

Once you try a Volvo product, you would never go back, he said.

He however identified the caterpillar brand as their strongest competitor.

“Our strongest competitor

is caterpillar product but our customers would tell you we are very good that is why we are the leader in many countries, including China and Brazil.

Also speaking during the

press briefing, the Marketing Manager, ATC Nigeria, Mr. Ade Ojuoka said that they have been able to take Volvo products to the next level in Nigeria.

“We started business about three years ago.

Prior to that time, you hardly could see a Volvo construction equipment or truck in Nigeria but today Volvo products have continue to increase by the day.

According to him, they have been able to provide mobile workshops to meet their clients in their premesis as well as trained local technicians to fix the products.

He described Volvo products as premium products that are designed to last for many years.

“It is an investment and we will always be with you. You buy our product because you have made an investment.

He commended SMT for being supportive to ATC adding that they have solution for all construction and logistics businesses.

The visit by SMT and Volvo according to the Marketing Manager, would give them better understanding of the Nigerian market.

He predicted a very bright future for Volvo products in Nigeria because of the need for reliable construction equipment.

32—Vanguard, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9,

2012

Rtd. Air Marshal Paul Dike

ernment agen- which reviewed the civil aviation cies and officials regulatory framework and asof the airlines sessed the structure and staffing and design a levels of the aviation agencies and s u s t a i n a b l e airline operators in relation to mechanism to ICAO standards. The committee ensure regular also reviewed safety and security maintenance of procedures at the airports as they facilities and pro- relate to air planes, passengers, tection of physi- and personnel and assessed the •Plane crash at Iju near Lagos last June...is government serious about preventing future occurences cal assets at the training and human resources airport; needs of the aviation industry in •To prepare projects details Nigeria. specifying the scope of works reacilities committee went sources required and time needround all the airports across ed to execute the projects on prithe nation to identify their defiority basis; •To examine the staffing, com- ciencies, inadequacies, service petency, professionalism and com- and shortcomings. And the FiBy LAWANI MIKAIRU State on Saturday, 22, 2005 in sign remedial programmes re- mitment of the staff of the regula- nance Committee explored fiwhich all the passengers and crew quired to address the identified tory bodies and ascertain weath- nancing options for the aviation sector, including an indigenous IX years after the Federal on board died; the Beechcraft air- equipment and service gaps and er or not laid down rules and promarket-driven initiative for fundcedures are strictly adhered to in Government Task Force on plane which crashed on Monday, ascertain the resources required ing the development and growth the discharge of their statutory reNovember 28, 2005 in Kaduna in ensuring that the industry is Aviation headed by retired Air of Nigerian aviation infrastructure Vice Marshal Paul Dike submit- and claimed two lives; and the repositioned on the path of sus- sponsibilities. and airline operations, on a sus•To make appropriate recomted its report on the way forward Sosoliso Airline crash in Port Har- tainable growth and developtainable basis. mendations in interim and final for Nigerian aviation industry, the court, December 10, 2005 kill- ment.

The Task Force submitted an reports for action to immediately ing108 people .

•To identify the level of mainteFederal Government is yet to ofInterim Report on Friday, FebruAs part of the resolution of the nance and competence of both in- improve the security and safety ficially issue a white paper on the ary 17, 2006 which contained priin the aviation industry, the steps report. An official white paper by or measures to be adopted by the ority projects of NCAA, FAAN, the government would have inThe committee also reviewed safeFederal Government in order to NAMA, NIMET & NCAT that dicated that the government was stop the dereliction and rebuild were identified by the Task Force ty and security procedures at the serious about curing the ills in the the confidence of the general as being necessary to improve aviation sector which have literairports as they relate to air planes, public in the industry, and for- aviation safety and security, and ally brought the aviation induswarding the interim and final re- to enhance conformity with passengers, and personnel try to its kneels.

ICAO, and later submitted it fiports directly to the President; What the regulator of the avianal report.

To perform any other functions tion industry, Nigerian Civil Avi- stakeholders’ forum, Obasanjo house and out-sourced mainteVanguard will examine how far that are incidental to the above ation Authority, NCAA, and the immediately set up the Task Force nance of the facilities and equipthe aviation regulator, NCAA, and terms of reference." different agencies, Federal Air- on Aviation Industry, with Air Vice ment and the airports; The Task Force did its assign- the agencies have been able to port Authority of Nigeria, FAAN, Marshall Paul Dike as Chairman.

•To liaise with respective airment through three committees: implement the aspect of the recNigerian Airspace Management Other members of the panel in- ports administrators, other govAirline Operations Committee ommendations that affect them.

Agency, NAMA, have done is to cluded Capt. Rowland Iyayi, start implementing some of the Arch. Tunji Bolu, Mr. Tony RTD AIR MARSHAL PA UL DIKE'S TASK FOR CE RECOMMEND ATIONS PAUL FORCE RECOMMENDA Task Force recommendations that Elumelu, Capt. Alendu Ukeje, concern their agencies.

Mr. Conrad Clifford, Engr. MoHE panel recommended that NAMA which was procured in year 2000, has not been hammed Sani Baba, Capt. should have an Automated Terminal In- implemented and put to use; Jonathan Ibrahim, Capt AugustOfficial formation Service, ATIS, system that automati•Assess the functionalities of the existing Inforine Okon, and Alhaji Abdul Rahwhite paper cally reports pre-recorded information on run- mation Communication Technology, ICT, systems man Shehu as secretary of the way condition, approach in use and weather to (software, hardware and communication) against A visit by Vanguard to the Avi- panel. And it was given three aircraft. Normally, ATIS information is updated the user requirements to identify gaps and soluation Ministry and agencies in months to complete its assignevery 30 minutes, but during rapidly changing tion options; and third, to implement the best-fit the ministry revealed that there ment. field or weather condition, it is given every 15 solution option.

The Task Force was given the was no official white paper by the minutes or as required. This helps reduce the The committee set up by the management of Federal Government to the min- following as its term of reference: work load on air traffic controller. It also ensures NAMA to work out the integration of the entire •To identify the remote and imistry and the agencies. that data relayed are accurate. The agency has agency operational processes is almost finishing It will be recalled that following mediate causes of dereliction in installed the automated system and it is func- its work. The panel recommended that NCAAseries of air crashes in Nigeria the aviation industry in Nigeria. tional in Lagos, Abuja, Kano and Port-Harcourt NAMA should create a joint office at the airport •To critically examine the stabetween 2005 and 2006, the govAirports. where clearance of aircraft will be made and enernment of former President Olu- tus of the nation’s airports, faciliThe Task Force also recommended that NAMA sure requisite staff can be reached on 24-hour segun Obasanjo organised an ties, equipment and associated should automate and integrate its entire opera- basis. It is observed that the process of obtaining emergency stakeholders’ forum infrastructure with a view to identional processes to provide a single focal point civil clearance or filing of flight plan for unschedon December 13, 2005, to delib- tifying those in need of repairs or for transactions processing, data storage, ar- uled flight into and out of Nigeria is cumbersome. erate on three tragic and fatal air- replacement in accordance with chiving and report generation. Prior to the auto- There is an unduly long and delayed bureaucraft accidents which occurred ICAO standards and regulation. mation, the following tasks should be done: cratic process, which stretches the process un•To identify the equipment and within 40 days. The Bellview Air•Conduct detailed investigation to establish necessarily. Most airlines thus lose charter offers line crashed in Lisa village, Ogun services gaps in the airports, dethe reasons why the ERP Accounting Package, Continues on page 33

Six years after, no government white paper on Paul Dike’s report S

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Vanguard, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2012—33

Retired Air Marshal Paul Dike's task force recommendations checked. NAMA has been following InContinues frompage 32 that are required urgently. NAMA now has an automated E-system for obtaining civil clearance or filling of flight plans for unscheduled flight into and out of Nigeria.

It is recommended that NAMA should ensure that air traffic controllers comply with the approved time of 10 minutes before arrival and 10 minutes after departure for closure of airport during VIP movements. Long period of closure of airports creates unsafe situations as the risk of aircraft running out of fuel or bumping into each other is heightened. It also causes huge loss of revenue to airlines. NAMA has not been able to strictly enforce this recommendation because they work with the office of Airport Commandant who gives them clearance to close and open the airspace.

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he Task Force recommended that all aviation agencies, including NAMA should develop in-house maintenance manuals. This will serve as a standard against which maintenance performance levels could be measured at any given time.The Task Force established that most of the agencies did not have their own maintenance manuals. These manuals spell out clearly the type of maintenance task to be undertaken, when or how frequently it should be undertaken, and how or the correct way of doing the tasks.

Maintenance manuals are therefore necessary and they serve as a standard against which performance levels can be

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ternational Civil Aviation Organisation, ICAO, manual to carry out regular maintenance of their equipment and facilities.

Aviation agencies, including NAMA, should develop a careful mix of inhouse and out-sourced maintenance of their equipment/facilities. This has not been achieved by NAMA. All aviation agencies, including NAMA, should dedicate the required 10 per cent of annual budgetary expenditure towards technical manpower development and training. Manpower training and development is the key to aviation development. NAMA has being doing this. The agency has dedicated 15 per cent of its 2013 budget for technical manpower development and training.

NAMA should review its Master Plan to include revenue and service level targets and other performance measures.

This will ensure that management is proactive in all aspects of the operation and that the annual budgets are derived from and are consistent with the Agency’s Master Plan. The Master Plan objectives will also guide in selection of priorities.

This has not been achieved.

NAMA should review its contract award system. The procurement process is being reviewed. NAMA would need to develop and enforce a structured procedure for evaluation and selection of contractors before registration and ensure that contracts are awarded to only registered contractors and within the approved registration limit. The procurement process is being reviewed.

34—Vanguard, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2012

Yaounde and Maroua declarations in conflict with Anglo-German agreement

Continues from yesterday AFTER the outbreak of the war, Isaac Boro was withdrawn from Bakassi, and replaced by the 3rd Marine Commando Division of the Nigerian Army. They were under the command of Col. Benjamin Adekunle. Adekunle had been sent to retrieve the Calabar area from the Biafrans. “As soon as Adekunle came to the Peninsula, he was reported to have set about flushing out Cameroonian security presence with a view to securing it against Biafran infiltrators. But he was reckoning without higher military chess games being played in Lagos between Gowon and Alhaji Ahidjo, the Cameroonian President.

“Maroua Accord, therefore, was only the honouring of the Civil War pact, and the reconfirmation of the pre-colonial Agreement between Britain and Germany.”

The Nigerian defence team at the ICJ also made a point of stating at the Court, that the Nigerian military stationed at Bakassi, was under the command of Major Isaac Boro until 1968. Col. B.A. Adekunle, in his Nigeria-Biafra War Letters, also states that he found the Cameroon military a very reliable source of intelligence on rebel movements in the border areas. Omoigui in his “Bakassi Story” suggests that it was ethnic ties, rather than territorial cessions that motivated Ahidjo’s informal entry into the Nigeria/Biafra war as a bulwark against Biafran use of the Eastern Border, and the South-Eastern Coast, for movement of men and supplies in and out of the embattled rebel enclave.

According to him: “Late President Ahmadu Ahidjo of Cameroon was a Fulani man whose father was originally from Kano in PROF WALTER OFONAGORO Nigeria. His mother was from Garoua in Obviously, Britain had encour- Cameroon. In fact Ahidjo grew aged Gowon to pledge Bakassi up around Yola and Mubi in Nito Cameroon. Without Came- geria and was a playmate of Senroon’s active support, the “rebels” ator Iya Abubakar. His former Diswould break the policy of encir- trict Head in Nigeria, Ambassaclement or blockades and main- dor Malabu, was made Ambastain the resistance through sup- sador to Cameroon to cement the plies it would be receiving relationship. It is said that every through the long border with time Alhaji Ahidjo saw the late Cameroon. Adekunle and his Alhaji Malabu, he would genutroops were told to vacate the Pen- flect. Thus, Nigeria gained and insula and allow Cameroon to sustained Cameroon’s support during the Civil War, not only by hold it.”

Ocherome concludes that the territorial concessions as have

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The April 1893 international boundary of Bakassi

been widely reported, but by manipulating primordial links between Ahidjo and Nigeria.”

It was Ambassador Malabu of Nigeria, and the Cameroonian Foreign Minister, that “ceded authority to technical experts from the Surveys, Fisheries, Immigration, Justice, External Affairs, Cabinet Office etc. departments of both countries”, to take decisions at the meeting of August 12-14, 1970, where under the leadership of Chief Oluwole Coker, the most Senior Nigerian Officer present at the meeting, they decided to adopt the Anglo-German Agreement of March 11, 1913, as the basis for further boundary negotiations.The plan for encirclement of Biafra during the war also included assistance to Fernando Po (now Bioko) to achieve independence by joining a tiny Spanish enclave on the Congo mainland known as Rio Muni. Together, they achieved Sovereignty under the new name, Equatorial Guinea in 1968, with Nigeria’s active support.

Suspension of relief flights As soon as they attained independence, they suspended relief flights to Biafra, and expelled all relief agencies that had been based there in 1968. That island’s population had been 70 per cent Igbos and Ibibios, owing to intensive labour recruitment from Eastern Nigeria to serve as plantation labourers on that island, on an agreement negotiated by Spain and UK since 1942. The Anglo-Spanish Employment Agency’s recruitment offices were a familiar sign post in most of precivil war Eastern Region towns.

Nigeria left Bakassi and the entire Eastern Regional Border with Cameroon to the defence of Cameroon during the war. That arrangement made Cameroon a combatant in the war. N.U. Akpan, Chief Secretary of Eastern Nigeria, and later of Biafra, said that Ahidjo, a member of the OAU Consultative Committee on Nigeria, “was among the most hos-

tile to Biafra’s existence.” Eventually, “far more people died in the civil war through starvation, than through military action, including Air Raids”. Could the cession of Bakassi and its consequences be the compensation for the loyal support of a friend during the civil war?

Evidence presented by the Nigerian legal team suggests that Nigeria was at the ICJ, to defend the cession of territory to Cameroon, and secure international recognition for the Ngo/Coker line. With regard to the seas offshore Bakassi, Nigeria told the Court, that Cameroon had a right to be there prospecting for oil, under the 1975 Maroua Agreement.

Existing oil concessions In paragraph 10.106 of Nigeria’s response to Cameroon’s Memorandum of Facts, Nigeria stated in relation to existing oil concessions in the area: “The Cameroonian government has been prospecting for oil in the area which she considered as falling within her territory under the 1975 Maroua Declaration. Nigeria too had been prospecting for oil in the same zone. But according to geological surveys, productivity of oil in the zone has only a life span of two years”. Was that worth sacrificing the National Security interests of the people of the South-East and South-South areas, who are more seriously affected by the cession of Bakassi, or is to serve as a containment contingency policy against the possibility of future conflict in the area?

All Nigerians must at least be grateful to the Government of Sir James Robertson, the last Colonial Governor-General of Nigeria, and his Minister of Transport Hon. Raymond Amanze Njoku, for making it possible for Nigeria to make the transition from colonial rule to independence with the Rio del Rey boundary intact.

We must never loose sight of the fact, that Nigeria remained a Brit-

ish colony and protectorate until mid-night, September 30, 1960.

Consequently, the Rio del Rey Port Declaration Order enjoyed the protection of Colonial Laws Validity Act of 1865, as a British Colonial Law. Conclusions: In this paper, I have examined issues in the Bakassi crisis, which has been mainly traceable to Nigeria’s cession of Bakassi to the Cameroons, through devious and unconstitutional means. In this context, I have had cause to examine the performance of the Nigerian legal defence team as regards the nation’s sovereignty over the Bakassi Peninsula, which was the main issue at stake in this case.

This is so because, control of Nigerian territorial waters off the coast of Cross River State depended on the ownership of the Bakassi Peninsula, since the Coast of the Peninsula was the Continues on page 35

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Prof Walter Ofonagoro in this concluding segment argues that Yaounde I declaration of August 4, 1970; Yaounde II declaration of April 4, 1971 and the Maroua declaration of June 1, 1975 which created the Ngo/Coker line on which the ICJ based its judgment were, in fact in conflict with the letter and spirit of the Anglo-German agreement of March 11, 1913.

For the dignity and integrity of the Court, and respect for extant principles of international law, this judgment must be reviewed, so that the International Court of Justice is not used to procure a serious breach of international law. A judgment procured by deception, and concealment of material evidence, cannot stand

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Vanguard, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2012—35

Gen. Yakubu Gowon

Tafawa Balewa

Yaounde and Maroua declarations in conflict with Anglo-German agreement Continues frompage 34 only coast line the nation had at the Rio del Rey Boundary with the Cameroons, which has been established with appropriate legal instruments since April 14, 1893.

We have found in the course of this study that the Nigerian legal team went to The Hague to defend her new “Border” with Cameroon, comprised in the Ngo/Coker line that stretched from the Akwa Yafe River, west of Bakassi, to the sea, purporting the same to be based on the Anglo-German treaty of March 11, 1913. We have stated, that on the contrary, the Yaoundé I Declaration of August 14, 1970, the Yaoundé II Declaration of April 4, 1971, and the Maroua Declaration of June 1, 1975, which created the Ngo/Coker line, on which the ICJ based its judgment, were in fact in conflict with the letter and spirit of the Anglo-German Agreement of March 11, 1913.

They contradict, rather than fulfill that Agreement, which in any case, had long lost its legal validity. We have also established that the Nigerian legal team failed to defend Nigerian sovereignty over Bakassi at the ICJ, insisting on establishing the legal validity, and acceptability of the Yaoundé Declarations I and II, and the Maroua Declaration of 1975, in confirmation of Nigerian unconstitutional cession of Bakassi to Cameroon perpetrated through the so-called Ngo/Coker “line of comprmise”.

Territorial sovereignty We also established that rather than defend Nigeria’s territorial sovereignty over Bakassi, and her seas off-shore Cross River State, our legal defence team actually accepted Cameroon’s claim to Bakassi Peninsula and the seas off-shore the coast of Cross River State. To do so effectively, they individually in their evidence-inchief concealed the existence of three important Boundary Agreements, which established the C M Y K

Boundary of Eastern Nigeria with Cameroons since April 14, 1893, purporting to the Court, as stated in the ICJ’s summary of evidence at Paragraph 38 of the judgment of that Honourable Court, that “The maritime boundary between Cameroon and Nigeria was not the subject of negotiations until relatively recently. Thus, apart from the Anglo-German Agreements of 11 March and 12 April 1913, in so far as they refer to the endpoint of the land boundary on the coast, all legal instruments concerning the maritime boundary between Cameroon and Nigeria post-date the independence of those two states .”

Nigeria did not challenge the false assumptions, implicit in that statement. By joining Cameroon in presenting this false description of the sea/land border situation of Eastern Nigeria, the Nigerian legal team supported Cameroon in falsely asserting that Nigeria had no Treaty documents defining her sea coast border with Cameroons before 1913.

Existence of Rio del Rey boundary Thus, they jointly concealed the existence of the Rio del Rey Boundary, which has defined Eastern Nigeria’s land/sea border since 1893, and remains valid to this day, as our inherited border since independence. Under rules set forth in OAU Resolution AHG/Res. 16 (1) of the Cairo Conference of the OAU, 1964, which rendered such boundaries frozen at independence, and inviolable in international law, that boundary still remains the Nigeria/Cameroon Boundary.

This is because, the existence of that Boundary was concealed from the court, and the court consequently made no order as to its nullification. We have stated that the purpose of this concealment was to mislead the ICJ into legally recognizing the side-lining of our existing Rio del Rey international boundary which confirms Bakassi as a Nigerian territory, and canonizing its replacement

with the new contrived Ngo/Coker boundary line which dates back to the 1970 – 1975 period in Nigerian history.

We have shown that the purpose of that deception and concealment of the legal reality of the Rio del Rey border, inherited from Colonial Rule, was to supplant it with the contrived Ngo/Coker boundary, with the unwitting approval of the International Court of Justice, thereby rendering the Honourable Court, a partner in the deceptive and treacherous manipulation of the nationally and internationally recognized boundary of Eastern Nigeria which entered the land from the sea coast of the Gulf of Guinea, through three Boundary treaties executed between April 29, 1885 and April 14, 1893.

We have demonstrated that this boundary was still legally in force at the time of deception of the honourable Court; and that by so doing, the legal teams representing both countries, through the suppression of available documentary evidence, persuaded the Court to unwittingly assume that an internationally recognized and inviolable boundary, did not exist, and consequently give legal sanction to the new one contrived by two Heads of State, who served their respective countries during the Nigerian Civil War, and enforced by a third President who had, as a field commander, led the Nigerian forces in the area to total victory, from 1969 to the end of the war in 1970. Eight months later, on August 12-14, 1970, the immediate post-war Government of Nigeria, commenced negotiations with her war-time ally, Cameroons, with a view to: a) Compensating Cameroon for her war time loyal services to Nigeria, in ensuring the success of the total land and sea Blockade of Eastern Nigeria (or Biafra) during that war. That compensation has been paid in form of having Cameroon drill oil in Nigerian territorial waters, through the illegally contrived boundary established by the Maroua Agreement of 1975, and the Yaoundé

Declarations. Although the Nigerian Defence team stated in court that Nigeria regards the Maroua Declaration as “lacking in legal validity”, it had no difficulty accepting it as binding at the ICJ. b) It is my considered opinion that in these proceedings, Nigeria, by transferring Bakassi to Cameroon, in compliance with the Green Tree Agreement of 2006, has also transferred sovereignty over a large part of Eastern Nigeria’s Territorial Seas to Cameroon, consequently rendering these territories, now the States of the South – South zone of Nigeria, especially Cross River State, partially land locked, in the event of any future conflict; even though these territories are naturally endowed with an extensive sea coast, which have been recognized in international law, as being part of the territorial seas of Nigeria.

Post-war history It is our hope that, in the light of these facts, urgent steps will be taken to redress this situation.

These may be mistakes from a war time policy that have unfortunately spilled over into our 42 years post-war history. The consequence has been that Nigeria has maintained two international boundaries at the sea coast of Eastern Nigeria since 1972. The one, the Rio del Rey boundary which has been in force since April 14, 1893, and which this ICJ judgment has been cunningly procured to render nugatory; and the other, the newly contrived Ngo/Coker “Line of Compromise”, put in place to enable Nigeria “show her gratitude” to Cameroons for invaluable services rendered during the civil war, 1967-1970. We have pointed out however, that the April 14, 1893, Rio del Rey Boundary Treaty, which separates Nigeria from Cameroon at sea, has been in force since before independence, and still remains in force, since the court made no ruling as to its nullification.

We have also pointed out that

Concluded

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Ahmadu Ahidjo, of Cameroun

for the purpose of ensuring that Bakassi remained in Nigeria, the Colonial Government established at the Nigerian Rio del Rey Boundary, on the Eastern river bank of Bakassi Peninsula, the Port Rio del Rey on September 29, 1960, on the exact geographical coordinates of the Rio del Rey boundary, thereby ensuring that this boundary remained in force, and Bakassi, in Nigeria, as we attained independence on October 1, 1960.

It is, therefore, evident that by coming to the Court to agree on what they had already agreed to between themselves, between August 14, 1970 and June 1, 1975, and since put into effect, while also maintaining the Rio del Rey Boundary whose existence they concealed from the Court, both Nigeria and Cameroon have managed, through suppression of evidence, to procure the legal sanction of a new boundary, established without parliamentary approval, and which boundary trivializes and violates all known international laws of treaties, and cannot stand the acid test of legality, without the “life-support” of the dubiously procured judgment of the International Court of Justice, issued on October 10, 2002, which has been obtained by concealing from the Court, the fact that Nigeria does have an inviolable, colonially inherited boundary at the Rio del Rey. It is clear that the court gave that judgment in error, based on evidence presented, and not presented, before it, in the course of trial. For the dignity and integrity of the Court, and respect for extant principles of international law, this judgment must be reviewed, so that the International Court of Justice is not used to procure a serious breach of international law. A judgment procured by deception, and concealment of material evidence, cannot stand.

Having complied with that judgment, Nigeria qualifies to benefit from a review, under the provisions of Article 61 of the International Court of Justice, the Hague.

Nigeria did not challenge the false assumptions, implicit in that statement.

By joining Cameroon in presenting this false description of the sea/land border situation of Eastern Nigeria, the Nigerian legal team supported Cameroon in falsely asserting that Nigeria had no Treaty documents defining her sea coast border with Cameroons before 1913

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36— Vanguard, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2012

Lagos Okada riders protest again

BY BOSEDE ADELAJA

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OMMERCIAL motorcycle op erators popularly called ‘Okada riders’, yesterday, gathered in their hundreds on the popular Awolowo road in Ikeja as they prepared to march to the seat of government at Alausa.

From Balogun bus stop down the Alausa stretch of the road was occupied by the resolute riders who said they were out to protest the traffic law enacted in July especially the section that restricts their operation on 475 roads across the state.

Lagos metropolis in protest against restriction placed on their operations by the new traffic law. Despite the on going fuel scarcity in the city, the operators chanting anti-government slogans, took over the roads causing traffic gridlock.

My men are not touts—Pekis Reacting to the development, and their last protest in September which became rowdy, chairman of the recognised union of the motorcyles body, Motorcycle Operators Association of Lagos State, MOALS, Mr. Tijani Pekis, dissociated his members from breaking law and order in the state. Rather, he said it was an attempt to enforce the traffic law as stipulated by the state government.

Pekis who spoke on behalf of the recognised and unrecognised motorcycle bodies in the State said his men were not touts but a body to

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ensure sanity on our roads and restore commuters’ confidence to the motorcycles bodies.

He said: “It was the recognised body that carried out enforcement in three senatorial districts namely, Lagos Central, Lagos West and Lagos East and we started from Ikorodu to Mile 12, Ojota, Anthony, Ojuelegba, Stadium, Costain, Lagos/ Abeokuta Tollgate, Abule-Egba, Iyana-Ipaja, Oshodi, Iyana-Isolo, Cele expressway and Mile 2. Also, our men were at Badagry, Orile, Bony Camp and Apogbon as well as Ajah and Epe. “It is a continous exercise and before we embarked on it, we wrote a

Despite the on going fuel scarcity in the city, the operators chanting anti-government slogans, took over the roads causing traffic gridlock

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letter to the Commissioner of Police through the Office of Operations Officer Lagos State Police Command and we received the approval from them.

“The exercise will continue until the state government sees reasons The moribund sunborn yacht hotel for a rethink on the law especially on the rural areas. All hands must be on deck, commuters, riders and government must make sure we reduce the embarrassment on zero tolerance so that commuters in the rural arears will have confidence in riding motor bikes. The union is fully in support of the traffci law to ensure sanity in the state.”

Moribund Sunborn Yac

•As group petitions EFCC over alleged Lagos govt de

BY OLASUNKANMI AKONI

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Policemen at the Lagos State secretariat, yesterday, to prevent the okada riders protest from turning violent C M Y K

ONTROVERSIAL Sunburn Yacht Hotel, bought from England and moored at the Marina Beach front, in Lagos few years back, described as the “Pride of London and Great Britain,” but which has been lying as the “ waste of Lagos” due to its present derelict state, is expected to leave the shores of Lagos soon.

When the custom built yacht, with 102 spacious and elegant yacht suites, arrived in Lagos in November 2008, an official, described it as a “delightful” addition to Lagos skyline as it would add value by being one of the very few floating hotels in the world thereby putting Lagos in the league of cities like, New York, Paris, Finland among others.

One observer said: “Looking at a Sunburn yacht today, one get sad. I remember back in England when the Sunburn Yacht,

Vanguard, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2012— 37

Ajegunle-Ilo health centre remains stagnant 10years after

BY MONSUR OLOWOOPEJO

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OR years, residents of Ajegunle-Ilo in Alakuko, Ojokoro Local Council Development Area, LCDA, were denied access to public medical service until 2001 when the Federal Government established a Primary Healthcare Centre, PHC, in the town.

The PHC was established by the Federal Government to solve the challenge but 12 years down the road the centre still operates as a mobile clinic. The medical centre located on Ishola Ariyo Crescent, was officially commissioned on March 11, 2003, by the then minister for integration and cooperation in Africa, Dr. Abimbola Ogunkelu, with the primarily responsibility of caring for child delivery, managing other health complications and primarily paediatric related issues.

Proper management Sources said that immediately after the centre was established, it was handed over to late Chief Adenekan, the Oluaje of Ajegunle-Alakuko, Ilo, and his committee for proper management. But after the demise of the Chief, it was handed over

was choice venue for weddings, birthdays and exclusive events and even more personal, I remember spending a whole day with some models and photographers on a fashion shoot in what was a breath-taking location “I touched and experienced every nook and cranny of the yacht, and I can tell you, it was truly a ostentatious, opulent, beautiful, elegant and world class.”

Zero corruption coalition Recently, a non- governmental organisation, NGO, under the umbrella of Zero Corruption Coalition, South West, recently stormed the office of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, in Lagos to protest what they termed “moribund” Sunburn Yacht Hotel bought with tax payers’ money.

The protesting group, called on the EFCC and the incumbent state government to inves-

tigate those behind the purchase of the yacht which they alleged was bought with a whooping N8 billion belonging to tax payers and Diamond Bank Plc. shareholders and depositors.

As at 9.30 am, weekend, the protesters had already assembled at the EFCC office Awolowo Road , Ikoyi and later submitted a petition to the authority for appropriate action.

Meantime, most of the issues shrouding the operation of the Sunburn Yacht Hotel seem to have been cleared, while arrangement had also been reached to take it back for rehabilitation and repairs. The Lagos State Government, in a swift reaction to the protest by the group, said it had issued a notice to the owners to remove it from Lagos shore for security purposes.

Commissioner for Tourism and Intergovernmental Relations, Oladisun Holloway, who made the clarification while speaking on the recent public comments said that Lagos State

government has financial interest in the yacht. Holloway, while debunking the reports, stressed that Governor Babatunde Fashola, had on several occasions stated that the state government never invested in the project.

He said stakeholders in the business transaction maintained that all issues relating to the vessel had been cleared, noting that outstanding issues have been settled out of court.

to the state Government who in turn handed over to the Ojokoro LCDA. Even after the state governor, Babatunde Fashola, announced the flag-off of the 26th free healthcare missions in Lagos, about one year ago, the Ajegunle-Ilo PHC was left out of the scheme. When Vanguard visited the centre last Friday, it was gathered that it has since stopped performing its primary responsibility while the residents now go out of the town to get the required public healthcare service.

In an interview with one of the staff who would not want to be named “the only service we provide here is antenatal and post natal care. But our service excludes pregnant women who are having their first delivery.”

She added that immediately the pregnancy developed to eight months, “we refer such people to another PHC, at Kola Bus Stop, along Lagos-Abeokuta express way. At that centre, she will get the required care.”

The centre falls short of the United Nations requirements for a standard PHC. According to the UN standards, the centre should have a medical doctor, a pharmacist, a staff nurse and other paramedical support staff which currently is not the case.

Ajegunle-Iloh health centre

‘Menace of motorcycle operators’ video launched

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N readiness to enforce the Lagos Road Traffic Law, the state government has launched a Home Video entitled AYE OLOKADA (menace of motorcycle operations) at the state secretariat, Alausa, Ikeja.

According to the Commissioner for Transportation, Kayode Opeifa, the home video to mark the Safety Campaign Week of the Vehicle Inspection Service, VIS, of the Ministry was produced by U BEE Media, headed by a popular actor, Mr Ade-

bayo Salami also known as “Oga Bello,” in conjunction with the Lagos State government.

Opeifa, said that the docu-drama is to enlighten the public on the menace of motorcycle operations in the state and the effect of such menace on the riders, passengers and society at large.

He added that the Home Video which is to be distributed to Lagosians free of charge also contained the 475 restricted routes for motorcycle and tricycle op-

erators in the State.

Those at the launch included stakeholders in the transport industry, civil societies, prominent actors and actresses, various transport unions in the State such as the National Union of Road Transport Workers, NURTW, the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria, RTEAN, Motorcycle Association of Lagos State, MOALS, and ANACOWA, Motorcycle Owners and Riders Association.

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38—Vanguard, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2012

Memories are for ever

Steve, (38), a Dentist, narrates how he lost the love of his life. His story: It was during my Youth Service year and I had just given my life to Christ. Prior to the incident, I had been dating a young student Nurse at the University of Ibadan where I graduated from.

The relationship was good but the girl was a Muslim, though not a practising one. She had good upbringing, discipline and a good family name too.

Had everything been within my powers, I probably would have married her eventually.

But as things turned out, I discovered Christ and gave my life to Him. Naturally, when this happens, you become a new creature entirely.

You have to turn your back to all those old sins, or else, you will keep backsliding into the same sin, over and over again.

So, one Saturday morning, I just saw this girl at my flat in Benin which I shared with

three other guys from the Fellowship.

The timing was entirely wrong because we had a leadership training that weekend and I was one of the participants.

There was no way I could shelve it to stay with her.

Besides, what would the other brothers and sisters think of my action. Soon

end, but that she should feel free to stay for as long as she pleased.

She could not believe that I’d said. Since I had nothing edible at home, I had to rush to the market, came back to make some stew and left some money for her just in case she needed to buy anything. I rushed home to

The most painful of it being that she too later gave her life to Christ and married a brother perhaps, I would have been that brother, however, all that is in the past now, though, I cannot forget

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i, Everyday, things happen to us. They might be good, bad, embarrassing, uplifting, disappointing, you name it.

Depending on our perception of the event, years later, its memory still lingers on.

It keeps springing up, even when you’ll rather forget it. Some of our respondents shared their stories of such moments with us. I know you have some wonderful stories you can share with us too. Please send your contributions to: The Human Angle, Vanguard, P.M.B. 1007, Apapa, Lagos. Or our email address: humananglepage@yahoo.com Happy reading!

the news would be all over the Fellowship.

On the other hand, perhaps I could have managed it better by asking her to sleep with any of the sisters, but that too was just not possible as I knew they would still demand for answers about the kind of relationship we had and will even want to preach to her.

The fact that I knew she was a Muslim and would not want to hear such things was enough guilt on my part. And when she described all that she’d been through just to find me, I felt terrible.

I was greatly disturbed, but there was no going back.

She had obtained my address from one of my close friends, taken four days off to come and look for me. She wanted to return to Ibadan on Monday, having arrived Benin the previous night.

Unable to locate my place, some student Nurses had given her accommodation for the night, so that she could resume her search in the morning.

I felt really terrible as I explained to her that I would not be able to stay with her for the week-

,

see how she was fairing on Sunday morning, only to discover that she was packed and ready to leave.

She had not touched the food nor the money I left for her. She did not accept money for her transport fare too. I felt terrible and sad. It is an experience I will never forget in my life, up till today, I still feel uncomfortable talking about it.

I really loved and perhaps still love her. But I had made up my choice at that moment and I wanted to go to God with a clean heart.

Later, I received emissaries from her, my friends tried to persuade me to change my mind. She did not see any reason why we should stop seeing each other because of my new found faith.

But my mind was made up, no going back. Till today, I still remember her with sadness and pain in my heart.

The most painful of it being that she too later gave her life to Christ and married a brother.

Perhaps, I would have been that brother. However, all that is in the past now, though, I cannot forget.

The problem I had way

back then was the fact that we had once been lovers. I was sure that it would be difficult to keep up my faith with such a person. I believe the saying, once a lover, always a lover. So, it was logical at the time that we just had to severe the relationship.

Rahama, (30), Lawyer, tells a funny story, though she did not find it funny at the time.

Read her: It happened while I was out shopping around Balogun area of Lagos. I was tired, thirsty and exhausted. But I was shopping for my sister’s wedding.

All eyes at the party were going to be on me and I was determined to give them an eyeful.

Suddenly, I started feeling my knees buckling under my weight and my vision bluring. I managed to make it to the front of one shop and asked for help. Then, I found out that I wasn’t being coherent, my voice wasn’t loud enough too.

As the woman got up to move closer, I felt my bag fall from my grip and then I went down too.

I didn’t know what happened after that, but I woke up to discover that I was half naked, at least, down to my waist.

I was wearing a skirt suit and the buttons had been undone.

The skirt too had been pulled down to my waist to allow for better circulation of blood and air.

Apart from the fact that I was near nude, my embarrassment was made worse by the battered state of my underwear.

My bra was a bit lose, so I had stitched it up carelessly with a blue thread. My slip was no longer the brilliant white it used to be, it had seen better days.

To make matters worse, people had gathered around to see what was happening. You know that typical Lagos reaction to such scenario.

People gather for the intention to observe and make comments, never to assist. When I came around and saw the crowd, I wanted to faint Asisited by Onozure Dania

To be continued

Friends Searching Males

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above, who resides in Delta state, for a romantic relationship.08031928745 •Awman, 25, average height, resides in Lagos, needs a tall and sexy lady, for a serious relationship.08106159942 •Smart, needs a humble girl, for a relationship, that will lead to marriage.08033454702 •Chibuike, 26, needs a good Christian girl, who is fair in complexion, aged 18-25, for a serious relationship.08037748313 •Peter, 46, employed and needs a lady, aged 3540 for a serious relationship. 08181004870 •Sony, active and needs a girl, in Enugu, for a serious relationship.08030887308 •Harri, 28, handsome and rich, needs a lady, for a serious relationship, that will lead to marriage.08167979174, 08132826144 •Kris, cute, unemployed, a graduate, needs a lady, C M Y K

who can assist him financially, for a romantic affair, aged 25-40.08092556433, 07066841210 •Ben, 50, lonely and needs a lady, aged 20-40, for casual relationship.08188277938 •Chris, 30, resides in Ph, needs a fat lady, for seri•Dear readers, please note that neither Vanguard, nor Yetunde Arebi will be liable for any error in the publication of requests on the Lovezone that may result in any form of embarrassment to any member of the public.

Also note that we do not run any match-making agency in or outside the country. Any reader who transacts business with anyone claiming to be our agent does so at his/her own risk.

Henceforth, only messages sent through the numbers readers want to be contacted on will be published.

This notice is necessary in order to serve you better in our refreshingly different style. To get your requests published, just text it to the code number 33055. For further enquiries, call 08026651636. Cheers!

UN older persons’ day: Group laments relegation of women in Nigeria

BY ONOZURE DANIA

A

S part of the activities marking the United Nations International Day of older persons, a non governmental organisation, The Committee of Concerned Women in collaboration with the Sunshine Foundation for the Elderly, held a seminar, tagged the strength of a woman.

Speaking at the event, president of Sunshine Foundation, Barrister Rose Odiete, said that studies have shown that more women fall into indigent roles upon attaining old age as a result of which few entitlements are allotted them. ”We all know our various cultural practices that relegate women to the background and remove all material gains they were meant to have.”

Odiete lamented all the negative cultural values and other societal practices which undermine the women generally.

She said that the society has not been fair to the elderly people as issues relating to them are pushed to the background.

Odiete said it was in realisation of the need to draw attention to their plight that made the United Nations to designate a day for the commemoration of the older persons in December 14, 1990 and which was later enshrined under Regulation 40/141 of December 21, 1995.

She added that since the United Nations regulation, the Foundation has always celebrated the day by organising free medical check-up and donation of free drugs and wheelchairs as appropriate.

Odiete disclosed that the seminar organised this year, was to highlight the important role of women in the society, the need for them to recognise their strength and how to use it to help themselves and the society as against engaging in acts of immorality.

Other participants at the seminar, who also spoke on womanhood and urged women to shun all forms of immorality capable of tarnishing their dignity and self respect, are Special Assistant to former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Princess Gloria Iweka, and public commentator and business mogul, Prince Jacob Akindele.

In apaper delivered by Gloria Iweka, she argued that acts of immorality would do a lot of damage than good to womanhood, adding that the theme, woman recognise your strength and how to use it to uplift yourself and the society, is very vital.

Iweka advised women not to allow societal pressure to push them into acts capable of debasing womanhood as this is the only way they can retain their dignity, be virtuous and true custodians of values.

She further added that immorality would separate women from the essence of womanhood, adding “when we do anything that is against womanhood, it would push away spirituality.”

Although she admitted that there are times women, especially widows and divorcees, are faced with adversity, deprivation and poverty among others, she insisted that sanctity, faithfulness to womanhood remain the greatest strength of a woman.

Prince Akindele, in his paper described the recent rejection of Nigerian women from performing the Hajj by the Saudi Arabian authority as a constraint on womanhood based on culture, religion and other factors.

Akindele counselled women not to give to emotions but to honour themselves on all issues. that tend to undermine them, adding that this is the first step in finding their ability and the strength with which to uplift themselves in the society.

ous relationship, that will lead to marriage.08030871442 •Dayo, 37, a graduate and a business man, from Abeokuta, needs an employed lady, for courtship, that will lead to marriage.08053871003 •Evis, 39, 6ft,tall, chocolate in complexion, a businessman, from Benue, but resides in Lagos, needs a lady, aged 33 and above, who is God fearing and good looking, for a relationship.07037862392, 08136914871 •A guy, a graduate and self employed, needs an employed and faithful lady, for a relationship, that will lead to marriage.08073304259,07065118525 •John, 37,from Edo state, but resides in Lagos, needs a lady, who is employed and resides in Lagos, aged 30 and above, for a relationship, that will lead to marriage.08077769843 •Ben 26, from Edo state, but resides in Lagos, needs a sincere, God fearing and employed lady, for a serious relationship.07030148518

Vanguard anguard,, YOUR LUCK TODAY

LEO; This is not the right time to take happenings along your career line for granted. Prepare for important domestic challenge. Keep your family secrets.

VIRGO; You may over inflate your ego to the resentment of people that matter. Watch what you do with money before 12.31pm. Try to be more diplomatic.

LIBRA; If care is not taken you would mislead others before 12.31pm while you are close to minor but costly mistakes from 12.31pm. Be wise with money.

SCORPIO; After initial confusion before 1pm you find your bearing and assert yourself but you will need to prepare to take care of oppositions that may come up suddenly.

— 39

LEISURE

THOUGHT FOR TODAY

By Joshua Adeyemo Phone 08056180139 CANCER; Many of you may be tempted and give in to the urge to gamble either with love or other important issue to the detriment of your cause. Be practical.

TUESD AY, OCTOBER 9, 2012 TUESDA

By Richard Eromosele

A

GREAT thinker once wrote that words are the forerunner of our action.

People first hear us talk before they see us act our talk. It is what we say that first captures their attention and ensure that they give us audience.

Talking to people You may be a great actor but if you are not able to market your skill you will have a scanty audience. And if you are a leader, if you can’t communicate your intention,

TERROR MUDA

chances are that you will have a very low followership. This is where ability to speak and communicate appropriately comes in.

It is not enough to know it, the question

in “Never say goodbye”

is can you convince people that you know it?

Talking to people is a skill everyone of us should develop. The leader, the marketer, the politician, the manager etc we all need the skill.

Think about it!

By Lanre Kehinde

SAGITTARIUS; It is important you don’t allow friends mislead you before 12.31pm no matter how genuine their intention. Watch what you do with your health. Tomorrow is your best day.

CAPRICORN; Take it easy along your career/business line during the morning period so that costly mistakes will not make things difficult for. Take your social life seriously.

AQUARIUS; What may look like a very good advice from younger members within your base of operation may eventually lead to avoidable trouble.

PISCES; Miscalculation is possible before 12.31pm that is why you will need to be as practical as possible and refuse to take people for granted throughout.

ARIES; Yes it is good to take partnership related issue seriously but priority attention must be given to money. Watch what you tell others before 12.31pm.

TAURUS; If you take your new ideas too seriously they would mislead you. But taken good advice from your influential friends can prove helpful. As the Moon fluctuates during AM period it is important you practical till after 12.31pm.

KAPTAIN AFRIKA

in

“Princess Shii’

By Andy Akman

GEMINI; Provided you don’t allow mid-morning blues to get better off you will eventually live up to expectation at work.

Take good care of your health, please.

ASTROLOGICAL COUNSELLING Send yyour our dat th ttoo the As tr ological datee and place of bir birth Astr trological Counselling, PP.M.B .M.B 1100 00 7, Apapa, Lagos 007,

What’s my sesitive part?

Dear Joshua, I ma interested in your daily analysis in Vanguard Newspapers. The truth is your daily horoscope column always work for me and now I just cant do without reading my Star in your papers.

My believe is since you can be as accurate as possible writing daily horoscope you are in a better position to analyse my health which is very important to me. I want to know which area(s) of my body should be taken more seriously.

Fatai, Lagos.

Dear Fatai, According to your natal horoscope you have gone above danger zones of your life health-wise. But then what you will find here-under will be of benefit. Thanks for your commendation.

Opposition between the Sun (an indicator of basic selfhood) and difficult Saturn during your birth hour pointed to a very tough beginning in life but luckily for you both Spiritual Neptune in powerful Scorpio and steady Pluto in healthy Virgo were at positive angles to your natal Sun thus, your chances of surviving are more than the delicate ones. More so as your natal Sun and Moon are members of strongest Star signs-health wise.

Certainly Saturn must have brought you a few number of health related challenges raging from skin, bone, sometimes the stomach and importantly headache . Since you were able to survive infancy and middle age you have very good chances of living to a very old age. While the ailments stated here can easily be managed by yourself one important organ of your body that must be managed by medical expert is your HEART because of many placement in heart related Star sign. This is not to say you must have heart problem but here is an organ you in particular must take very seriously. Yes fever is common in Africa and today fear of STDs is the beginning of good health. STDs are mentioned here because of your natal planets is sexual Scorpio. Mind you nothing fatalistic here, but mere warnings.

VIRGINIA

Commen3

dadadekola@yahoo.com

by Lawrence Akapa

40—Vanguard , TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2012

WINNER: From left— Mr. Pawan Sharma, Group Chief Marketing Officer, Dufil Prima Foods; Mr. Otun Lateef, winner of Indomie Super Millionaire Promo; Mr. Tope Ashiwaju, Public Relations Manager, and Mr. Ayo Olesin, Deputy Editor Daily, National Mirror newspaper, during the 2nd draws and presentation of the cheque to the winner in Lagos, yesterday.

VISIT: Customs Officers’ Wives Association, COWA FOU ‘A’ Chapter, led by its Chairperson, Mrs. Ochanya Dan-Ugo; Mrs. Durowoju, Directress of Modupe Cole Memorial Child Care Yaba, and other COWA members during their visit to the home.

Delta sets up resettlement centres for Burutu flood victims

DESOPADEC: Delta councils task Uduaghan on accessible reps T

BY FESTUS AHON

U

GHELLI—THE people of Uvwie, Udu and Ughelli South local government areas, under the aegis of Core Oil Producing Communities, have called on Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State to appoint credible and accessible persons from the area to represent them on the board of Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development C o m m i s s i o n , DESOPADEC. The group, in a statement by its Chairman, Chief Bulless Odiete, said they want a representative that “knows the pains of the people and not the one that will add to their suffering.”

They decried the alleged “failure and incompetence of Mr. Johnson Boro, member who represented the area on the recently dissolved board.”

The statement said: “Boro was not accessible to the people of the area he represented in the last DESOPADEC board, hence the massive jubilation in the three local government areas when the board was dissolved.

“Even in his community, Agbowhiame, Ughievwen Kingdom, large a number of persons were jubilant when the board was dissolved, thanking the state House of Assembly for dis-

solving the board.”

The group stressed the

need for “true politicians and those with good

heart to be appointed into the board.”

Rep wants EFCC to probe N3.3bn Edo road contract

BY GABRIEL ENOGHOLASE

B

ENIN—HOUSE of Representatives Minority Whip, Mr. Samson Osagie, has called on Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, to urgently investigate the circumstances that led to the award of ObenUmoghun-Nokhua Road project in Orhionmwon Local Government Area of Edo State to a construction company, Askay Constuction Company Limited.

Osagie, who represents

Orhionmwon/Uhunmwode in the National Assembly, made the call, weekend, at Umogun Nokhua shortly after inspecting the road project. He expressed dissatisfaction with the poor quality of works so far executed by the company.

The Umughun-NokhuaOben Road project was awarded in November 2009 by Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, to Askay Construction Company.

Osagie said: “The people of this community, Obe, Omoghun Nokhua in Orhiomwon council, who

are to benefit from this project had been surchanged.

“The cost of the project is N3.38 billion. From my record and investigation, over N800 million had been paid and from what we have seen on ground, the job done cannot justify what had been paid.”

He said the initial crisis notwithstanding, there was no justification for the company not to have laid asphalt on any of part of the 22kilometer road after three years.

I've practicalised governance— Mimiko

G

O V E R N O R Olusegun Mimiko of Ondo State has said he will win the October 20 governorship election convincingly because in his three and half years as governor of the state, he had taken governance from the theoretical to practical realm.

He is contesting on the platform of Labour Party, LP. The incumbent told newsmen in Akure that his government had been able to demonstrate that it was pos-

sible for a viable synergy to be created between the governed and the government by putting in place projects that will make the people see themselves as part of government.

He added that projects demanded by residents themselves had been delivered in over 500 communities in the state.

Mimiko said: “People now lobby to get their wards from private schools to our mega schools, and

our Abiye project has entered the global health lexicon.

“Government is life, its living. Here, you can have affordable health care without compromising quality.

“Through our urban renewal programme, we have been able to take people from the streets and relocate them into better places. For instance, Akure has been transformed from a glorified village into a befitting city.”

Minister lauds Jonathan on labour-friendly policies

BY VICTOR AHIUMA-YOUNG

M

INISTER of Labour and Productivity, Chief Emeka Wogu, has ascribed the success recorded by the ministry in maintaining industrial peace in the country to labour-friendly disposition of

C M Y K

President Goodluck Jonathan’s transformation agenda.

He spoke in Ilorin, Kwara State capital, when he received the Good Governance Media tour led by the Minister of Information, Mr. Labaran Maku, on inspection of Federal project at the Michael Imoudu

National Institute for Labour Studies, MINILS. Wogu said: “Significant improvements were recorded in the Institute between 2010 and 2012 following my appointment as the Minister of Labour and Productivity by President Goodluck Jonathan.

“The enabling labour-

friendly environment created by his administration has enhanced the recognition of this Institute internationally. We are collaborating with some universities in Nigeria, while students from other African countries have shown interest in the Institute’s educational activities.

WO resettlement centres are to be opened by Delta State Government at Ayakoromor and Enekorogha communities in Burutu North axis as part of efforts to rehabilitate flood victims in Burutu Local Government Area of the state.

Member representing Burutu Constituency I in Delta State House of Assembly, Mr. Daniel Yingi, spoke when he led a team on an assessment visit to communities ravaged by flood in his con-

stituency.

The communities visited by the lawmaker were Ayakoromor, Gbekebor, Okpokunou, Okrika, Degbene, Dunuogusu and Enekorogha, among others.

The team had difficulty accessing some of the communities because of the flood, which submerged both primary and secondary schools, farmlands and houses.

Yingi sympathised with the victims and expressed shock at the level of destruction.

Customs seizes containers of pirated books

BY IFEYINWA OBI

P

ORT and Terminal Multi Services Limited, PTML, Command of Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, has intercepted three 20-foot containers of pirated books, allegedly smuggled into the country.

The seizure is coming on the heels of the recent seizure of a 40-foot container loaded with expired drugs by the Command barely one month after the Customs Area Comptroller, CAC, Zakari Jibrin took over the

Command.

Jibrin, who briefed newsmen on seizure, said: “The containers are no MRKU 8366432, MSKU 3841505 and MAEU 6719940.

“The first declared Christian books but on physical examination was found to contain educational books on Anatomy and Physiology, Health and others.

“The second, which declared its content as Think and do reading book, was found on examination to contain 980 cartons of educational books.”

Nigerian bizmen get UN Peace Award

W

ARRI—A FORMER President of defunct Warri Youth, Mr. Philip Awani and his business associate, Mr. Okpegboro David have been honoured with a Peace Award by a United Nations agency, The Global Peace Festival Foundation, Abuja.

The award is in recognition of their selfless services to mankind and their contribution towards the establishment of a culture of peace transcending ethnic and religious barriers.

It is the highest category

of honour for individuals by the Peace Embassy, Abuja. President Barrack Obama of the United State of America, is a past recipient of the award.

While presenting the award in Effurun, Delta State, a representative of the Peace Embassy, Albert Ozuem, said: “Nominees are properly screened to ensure that they are peace-loving people with credible track record,” adding that the awardees can now add the prefix, Ambassador to their names.

Vanguard, MOND A Y, OCTOBER 9, 2012 — 41

Scientists worry over health ‘hazard’ of mammography

BY SOLA OGUNDIPE

M

EDICAL doctors and advocates for cancer cure and treatment are still puzzled over the report of a new study warning that mammography may be dangerous to any woman who is already at high risk of developing breast cancer.

The confusion has arisen following a publication in the British Medical Journal of the study report which alleges that women with a gene mutation (BRCA1 or BRCA2) who undergo diagnostic radiation (such as a chest x-ray or mammogram) before she attaining the age of 30, are far more likely to develop breast cancer than those who carry the gene mutation but who have not had x-ray exposure.

Good Health Weekly gathered that mammography is a is a special type of X-ray

of the breasts and it can show tumours long before they are big enough health care provider to physically detect.

Usually, a women is often encouraged to be tested to see if she carries a mutant gene which control the suppression of breast and ovarian cancer. If she does carry the mutated gene, she is often encouraged to have mammograms at far younger-than-normal ages to catch any malignancy early.

When scientists at the Netherlands Cancer Institute delved into effects of mammograms or x-rays women received before age 20, at ages 20-29, 3039 and at their age when last exposed to these tests, they found that 43 percent of women in the study were eventually diagnosed with breast cancer and about half of them had reported

Postgraduate Medical College graduates 264

BY CHARITY UGWUANYI

A

S part of efforts to strengthen tertiary healthcare in the country, the National Postgraduate Medical College recently graduated 264 qualified medical professionals members during the intitution’s 30th convocation ceremony at Ijanikin, Lagos state.

Minister for Health, Professor Onyebuchi Chukwu who represented President Goodluck Jonathan, said part of the strengthening excercise was to strengthen the training of medical specialists within and outside the country.

He said the President has already directed that the 2013 budgetary envelope for training institutions be increased to ensure training of more medical and dental specialists. Meanwhile, 56 Residents and young consultants are to be sent for overseas training this year.

The College President, Professor Wakwe said the College wasin dire need of funding to acquire clinical skills and simulation laboratories.

having an x-ray; approximately 33 percent had received mammograms. A history of any exposure to diagnostic or screening radiation to the chest between the ages of 20 and 29 appeared to be especially dangerous -- it increased breast cancer risk by an alarming 43 percent.

Women who had been exposed to tests involving radiation before the age of 20 had an increased risk of breast cancer of 62 percent.

Older women didn't seem to have this increased risk, the study noted.

• Members of the Young Women Christian Association, YWCA, during a “walk against domestic violence’ exercise in Lagos recently, to create awareness about the negative impact of the increasing incidences of violence against women in the society.

ACPN Amoni Zone decries incidence of heart disease in Nigeria

BY CHIOMA OBINNA

T

HE Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria, AMONI Zone has urged Nigerians to go for regular and comprehensive heart check ups as a way of preventing sudden heart attacks as a result of undetected heart problems.

Speaking at a health awareness programme to mark this year's World Heart Day, Chairman of the ACPN AMONI zone, Pharmacist Chukwudi Obiukwu, who was represented the Vice Chairman, Pharmacist George Onugbolu said there were many people going around without knowledge of the state of their hearts.

About 300 people were targeted for free medical screening at the event.

Noting that awareness on heart health is still very low

in Nigeria, he stated: "Poverty has remained a major problem in heart health.

Because this programme today was free, many people started queuing to get screened as early as 7.00 AM. Often, people do not go for checkups because they cannot afford it and not because they do not know that is important," he stressed. "According to him, there are so many heart complications around because people are not aware of what to do and how to take care of their health.

Describing as abnormal and absurd, a situation in

C M Y K

as go for periodic health screening.

He called on government at all levels to equip the hospitals with drugs and medical equipment as well subsidised medical health checks in its health facilities.

The topic for this year entitled: "Your Health and You" was informed by recent discovery that heart diseases had become rampant among people aged 25-35 years and many of them are coming down with partial stroke.

"So many people do not

Continues on Page 43

Global Handwashing Day:

Lifebuoy deploys handwashing points in schools

BY CHIOMA OBINNA

W

From L-R: Pharmacist Funmi Dada, Secretary; Pharmacist Joy Azimoli Finacial Secretary; Pharmacists Raphael Manafa, Titi Odunsi, and George Unagbolu, the Vice Chairman ACPN AMONI Zone, during the free heart check exercise last week.

which young people are coming down with heart related diseases, he stated: "There is too much carelessness concerning our lifestyle and that is why we have a lot of heart accidents in our society. Cases of 25 years having partial stroke which was not the trend in the past is abnormal and absurd."

Calling for urgent action on heart health, Obiukwu advised that Nigerians should learn to take their heart health serious by consuming balanced diets and lass fatty foods, drink less of alcohol, take more water and healthy juice, as well

ORRIED about the unacceptable deaths of Nigerian children under the age of five due to diarrhoea, Unilever Nigeria Limited through its Lifebuoy health soap is deploying Handwashing points at various schools in Lagos as part of its annual initiative to celebrate defeat diarrhea.

Announcing the campaign in Lagos, tagged; "Help a Child reach the age of five… One Nigeria against Diarrhoea, Managing Director, Unilever Plc, Thabo Mabe, said the handwashing platform is to drive awareness of an inexpensive habit of handwashing that will drastically reduce occurrence of diarrhoea and other related sicknesses.

"As part of our goals this year, Unilever will be cel-

ebrating children who reach the age of five around the country; we will continue from our milestones last year with which we plan to achieve over seven million pledges this year; deployment of handwashing points to the various schools selected due to the N10 million donated last year."

National President, Medical Women's Association of Nigeria, MWAN, Dr. Christina Campbell, opined that the initiative was targeted at shoring up the health of children and getting them to imbibe the habit so their lives could be prolonged.

Campbell, who noted that the initiative was timely, added that it was given more teeth through the reliable assistance provided

by Unilever.

"For five years, the Handwashing Day has

been celebrated all over the world because we know children, especially in the developing world, don't have the opportunity to live up to the age of five to become brilliant leaders of tomorrow. That is why we are here today to mark the event through the simple habit of washing their hands," she said.

Corroborating their views, Unilever, Brand Building Director, Mr. David Okeme, stated annually, Unilever collaborates with key stakeholders to mark the Global Handwashing Day, as part of an Africa wide initiative dedicated to defeating Diarrhoea.

He noted that Last year, Unilever entered the Guinness Book of World Records by creating a platform for over 37,809 school children to wash hands simultaneously at Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos.

42—Vanguard, TUESD A Y, TUESDA

OCTOBER 9, 2012

Non-Communicable Disorders:

Nutritionists provide soft landing for soft drinks, beverages A

RE soft drinks and beverages unhealthy? How does the con sumption of soft drinks and beverages contribute to incidence of chronic disease deaths? What is the role of soft drinks and beverages in development of Non-Communicable Diseases, NCDs, or the "silent killers" as disorders such as heart attack, stroke, erectile dysfunction, cancer, diabetes and chronic respiratory diseases among other s are known?

These and other posers were on the front burner recently when nutritionists, allied professionals and other stakeholders in the Nigerian health industry, gathered in Asaba, Delta State, to discuss the relationship between nutrition, food security, the Millennium Development Goals and national development.

At the Asaba event, occasion of the 42nd Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference of the Nutrition Society of Nigeria, NSN, the experts, after a careful assessment of the role of the food and beverage industries in promoting nutrition in Nigeria, voted for adoption of proper community education and enlightenment as solution to the challenges brought on by NCDs in the country.

The event put together by the NSN in collaboration with Coca-Cola Nigeria Ltd., the Delta State government and the Delta State Committee on Food and Nutrition among others, closely examined strategies for improving optimal nutrition towards achieving the MDG targets in Nigeria.

In several instances, effects of the high sugar content of soft drinks and their role in development of NCDs, have elicited much concern.

From hindsight, the subject choice was not a surprise considering that large-scale concerns about associated health risks from the growing consumption of soft drinks within the Nigerian populace have engaged the health community at different levels in recent times.

Notable among such concerns have been the allegedly significant effects of the high sugar content of soft drinks in the development of NCDs such as Cardiovascular Disorders, CVDs, heart attack, stroke, Erectile Dysfunction, cancers, diabetes and chronic respiratory diseases and others commonly referred to as "silent killers". Excerpts:

BY SOLA OGUNDIPE

For every NCD, there are risk factors —Dr. Elizabeth Chibuzor, Nutritionist, Associate Professor, University of Maiduguri, Borno State.

"For every non communicable disease, there are factors, and multi-factorial variables that are associated. With diabetes, I try to get all those factors that people have said have an association with diabetes and a looked at their hot ratio that is the risk of having diabetes if you indulge in those factors. So I looked at factors one by one starting from antropometric variables that is those that are thin among the diabetics. I didn't even go to those people that had the disease already established but those that didn't know they had the disease.

We took their blood to measure the biological parameters of how

high the sugar was and found out that the prevalence among my sample population was 12 per cent when people were saying at that time it was one per cent in Nigeria. So with that I now looked at not just the prevalence, I compared with those people that didn't have the disease and then looked at their lifestyles and found out even that those people that are lean had the disease. So it is malnutrition related disease.

We took all the diets they had eaten using the food frequency questionnaire that contains all the possible foods that are consumed in that area and we checked them one by one. We then found out that for those who eat more sugar there were no significant risk of having diabetes. The only food that was significant in our study was we call wenarogo that is those flat fried bread made from cassava, they spice it and fry it and those people that were eat-

•Professor Tunde Oguntona

• Mr. Clement Ugorji ing it had 6.3 times as high risk of diabetes than other people."

No single nutrient causes NCDs — Julia Otaya, Nutriri-

onist, Health and Wellness Manager, Coca-Cola Central East and West Africa "Basically what I am trying to communicate is that when it comes to the golden rules of nutrition, eating a variety of food is very important and moderation is important depending on someone's energy needs that is very important. But when you look at the incidences of NCDs, the risk factors are actually very clear.

They are poor diet, excessive intake of calories and physical ac-

Nigerian experts want locally developed HIV vaccine

BY CHIOMA OBINNA & CHARITY UGWUANYI

F

OLLOWING the gaps and challenges facing HIV& AIDS in Nigeria, experts have called for the need to step up research efforts towards the development of an HIV& AIDS vaccine that would address HIV strains that are peculiar to Nigeria and the West African Region.

The experts who spoke at the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria Faculty of Public Health 2012 Faculty Day lecture tagged: The challenges of HIV&AIDS in Nigeria" pointed out the denial was a major factor militating against sustaining reduction prevalence of the pandemic.

C M Y K

The Minister of State for Health, Dr. Mohammed Ali Pate, who was the special guest of honour at the lecture series, urged stakeholders and partners to join hands with the government to achieve a sustained reduction of HIV&AIDS prevalence and mitigate its social components as part of the government's transformation agenda.

The Minister who was represented by the Director General of the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, NIMR, Prof. Innocent Ujah said despite efforts of governments and stakeholders, the control of HIV & AIDS still faces numerous challenges, including discrimination, stigmitisation of people living with HIV & AIDS, risky behaviours and the chal-

lenge of access to anti retroviral drugs especially among the rural community.

Pate noted that the government was committed to achieving the Millennium Development goals, including MDG6, which is to halt by 2015 and begin to reverse the spread of HIV&AIDS and other disease. "Therefore, public health intervention of HIV/AIDS prevention and control cannot be overemphasised."

Delivering his lecture entitled; "The Challenges of HIV/AIDS in Nigeria", Prof Emeritus Umaru Shehu who noted that despite the significant achievements in the HIV response in the last decade gaps and challenges still exist said there is need to strengthen Continues on Page 43

• Dr. Elizabeth Chibuzor

• Ms. Julia Otaya tivities which are actually low.

Very low levels of physical activity has actually been mentioned as one of the main causes of NCDs. The World Health Organisation actually just gives specifically what are the causes and they actually mentioned tobacco, alcohol intake and of course the whole issue of obesity that leads to many other diseases. For me, the take home message is for you to ensure you lower the risk of you getting NCDs, take care of your diet, watch your weight, engage in physical activity because it is important and then an intake of lots of fruits and vegetables in the diet is very important and then the intake of fibre, that is also very important and of course other lifestyle changes.

Let us not target one single source of nutrient as a cause of NCDs because it is multifactorial."

No direct association between sugar-sweetened drinks and obesity — Pro-

fessor Tunde Oguntona of the Nutrition Society of Nigeria.

"I am not aware of any publication that has associated sugar sweetened drinks with obesity directly. We have always known that the issue of obesity is a complex one that involves lifestyle, food intake, sedentary lifestyle and so on. We have always known that the degree of relationship has not been fully established. What we have heard today demonstrated that sugar, table sugar has not been implicated directly

•Professor Ignatius Orimawo in the cause of obesity or NCDs. On the other hand there are other factors like sedentary lifestyle, sitting down all day not doing exercise that is a major contributor to obesity. If beverages can provide the micronutrients like vitamin A, iron, zinc that we know that our people are deficient in why not encourage manufacturers to include those nutrients in their beverages?

I am open to food manufacturers enriching their products at little or no cost because it is one easy way of meeting these requirements. Considering the amount of beverages available in this country to me it is a good idea that they should include more micronutrients in their products. So we shouldn't look at beverages as something that is bad, but as something that can be used as a vehicle for meeting the nutrition requirements of our people.

There is a role for soft drinks and beverages in a healthy nutrition — Clem-

ent Ugorji, Public Affairs and Communications Manager, Coca-Cola Nigeria.

"There is a role for beverages including soft drinks and juices all in a healthy nutrition not just for the individual but for the nation.

There is need to create partnerships with critical stakeholders who understand the issues at stake and can help in the dissemination of such information. That is what we have started.

Naturally, we are starting some form of mass enlightenment campaign which will naturally be in partnership with these bodies and also the regulatory bodies as well.

We have a portfolio of beverages that addresses people's needs at different life stages, life occasions and situations. So basically we recognise the fact that people want beverages to refresh themselves and we also recognise that one beverage alone will not satisfy the needs of everybody which is the reason why we offer people choice.

If you have issues and you think that sugar is not good for you, or you don't like the taste of sugar, we offer you alternatives.

If you are already diaContinues on P1age 43

Vanguard, TUESD A Y, OCTOBER 9, 2012— 43 TUESDA

Understanding breast cancer and its stages but generally is not spread expect possi0 Stage: AS its number implies this is the earliest stage of breast cancer. Usually there is no lump. Your doctor may call this ‘non-invasive’ cancer or DCIS (Ducal Carcinoma in Situ) or LCIS (Lobular Carcinoma in Situ.)

I Stage: This stage is noted when cancer is only in the breast and is less than one inch diameter.

IIA Stage: Cancer is found in lymph nodes or under the arm but not in the breast and is smaller than one inch OR it is about one to two inches but not found in lymph nodes or under the arm.

IIB Stage: In this stage the cancer is found in the lymph nodes/under the arm and is one to two inches OR is measures more than two inches and cannot be found elsewhere such as the lymph nodes.

IIIA Stage: Cancer is found in connected lymph nodes under the arm OR cancer is two inches or less as well as under the arm in lymph nodes OR it is larger than two inches and in lymph nodes under the arm.

IIIB Stage: Th is cancer is invasive, is of any size, and has spread to either chest wall, skin of breast, and/or lymph nodes.

IIIC Stage: Another invasive cancer with any sized tumor (or no tumor) that may be found also in chest wall, breast skin and/or lymph nodes.

IV Stage: Invasive cancer that is spread to body organs such as lungs, liver, brain, or bone.

Understanding More about the Stages of Cancer 1. In this stage the cancer is small and contained within the original site.

2. Tumor is greater in size than in Stage 1

bly into lymph nodes nearby original tumor site.

3. Cancer possibly spread to surrounding areas, larger in size than other stages (1 & 2) and may be in lymph nodes.

4. The cancer is now found in other parts of the body as well as its point of origin.

In order to properly assess your options, you need to understand exactly what you are dealing with when it comes to cancer.

No doubt the number of cancerous cells and the rate at which they are spreading will be determining factors in how you may choose to treat it. In some cases of

Julia Oyefunke Fortune

The Cancer

FIGHTER

juliafortune@hotmail.com

breast cancer for example, the cancer may have reached a point where a mastectomy is the best and possibly only option, but before you make any decision, you need to fi rst educate yourself on what you are dealing with - get a second opinion.

I also recommend getting opinions from both traditional medical doctors as well alternative doctors who may be able to

Locally developed HIV vaccine Continued from Page 41 research capabilities at all levels as well as promote research in the fields of behaviour communication, prevention programmes, treatment programmes and care and support programmes.

Shehu said research would help the objectively identify what works best and where, thus helping focus interventions where they would have maximum benefit thereby improving effectiveness and effi-

ciency of programmes.

He recommended integration of HIV services with other health services including sexual and reproductive health amongst others.

Continuing, he challenged public health and the post graduate medical college of Nigeria to take a leadership role towards increasing knowledge and skills and foster creative solutions to challenges in the response to AIDS through dialogue and

Nutritionists, soft drinks and beverages Continued from Page 41

betic, we advise that you reduce intake of soft drinks — Professor

Ignatius Orimawo, erstwhile President, Nutrition Society of Nigeria "For me anybody who has a health issue which did not just start yesterday, we advise against taking soft drinks or whatever, because soft drinks contain already absorbable sugar which definitely will increase your blood sugar level. So if you are already diabetic we advise that you reduce the intake of such drinks and if

possible avoid them.

Under normal circumstances if your insulin is working very well even when you take so many bottles of soft drinks the insulin is designed to take care of it and you wont have any problem. But if you already have a problem, you need to watch it. A ban of soft drinks will not work.

What will solve the problem is nutrition education. A ban is not the solution. There is nowhere a ban of such thing has ever worked in the world and it cant work in Nigeria.

provide you with options you may not otherwise be made aware of.

The point here is that you need to take charge of your own situation and make informed decisions. If you leave these decisions up to a doctor or anyone else for that matter, you risk being subjected to invasive and irreversible treatments that may not always be necessary. debate.

He further charged them to advocate for implementation of appropriate an effective evidence- based policies and programmes to embrace the response to AIDS as well as strengthen research capacity an indentify research priorities across the sub - specialties among others.

Heart disease Continued from Page 41 know whether they are hypertensive or obese and they keep living reckless lifestyles, and one day the cardiac complication will come resulting to partial stroke."

In his lecture entitled: "You and Your Health", Pharmacist Okechukwu Aribeana explained that knowing the symptoms makes one to be more aware and able to recognise in other people. For heart attack, he urged people to look out for, amogst other symptoms, discomfort, heaviness or pressure in the chest that can last from 30 minutes to two hours, or can go away within minutes and return either in the chest or a different area of the upper body

COMMON SEXUAL PROBLEMS AND THEIR NOVELTY BASED SOLUTIONS (ADVERTORIAL)

H

ELLO Uche, my fiancee has been trying for a while now to completely get a cure for his staphylococcus infection but it just keeps resurfacing. What treatments can one use for total eradication? Agnes Dear Agnes, there is a sexually transmitted disease called herpes. It is characterised by itching, rashes and boils and it has no permanent cure.

The herpes virus bonds with the nervous system and resurfaces during periods of sexual activity inspite of treatment. People often mistaken herpes for staphylococcus but they are not the same thing.

Unfortunately, hospitals in Nigeria lack the equipment for herpes test.

There is a hospital in Lagos that can take his blood for testing in South Africa but I have forgotten the name.

My advice is to look for a very good hospital and request for a herpes test. He may be lucky and find a hospital with the equipment to test and diagnose this disease.

Sorry – Uche Hello Uche, my name is Andrew. I have been reading your column and I want you to help me with a problem.

When I am making love to my fiancée, she does not satisfy me at all. She does not like sex.

I try to explain to her and she said that I should look for someone who will satisfy me and she won’t be angry.

I have asked her whether she really loves me and she said yes. She is even telling me that we should get married. I really don’t know what to do. We don’t like the same things. How will this marriage work? Please help me because I love her – Andrew Dear Andrew, your story reminds me of an article I read about a trend in China where gay men and lesbian women agree to marry each other just to blend into society.

They have no sexual relationship and they give each other permission to have sexual relationships with other gay people outside their marriage.

From everything you have told me, there is a real possibility that your fiancee is a lesbian. The signs are there. I have never heard of a woman telling her fiancée C M Y K

to go and have sex with other women. It does not make sense. Heterosexual women don’t do that. That is why I suspect your fiancée is gay and is just taking advantage of you to get married and blend in. In any case, sex is a big part of a romantic relationship and since you are not sexually compatible, I don’t recommend marriage for both of you. It won’t work. The signs are already there – Uche For two years now, I find it difficult to get a strong erection. Sometimes the erection is a bit strong but when intercourse starts, it gets soft again. I am 58years old – Ononiwu These are the symptoms of erectile dysfunction, and it is common for men your age. You need an erection supplement. Ask for Enzyte or Xzen 1200. Any of these two will restore your erections and have you performing better than before – Uche After I born five children, my vagina is loose and husband not happy. What to do? Mrs Waziri Dear Mrs Waziri, you need to start exercising your pelvic muscles. You can do this with a device called the Ben Wa Balls. You should also use the Reverse Vagina Tightening Gel during intercourse. It is a great lubricant that will make you tighter for a few hours – Uche How can I put an end to premature ejaculation for ever? My own is really bad – Funso Premature ejaculation has no permanent cure. But with the right desensitizing lubricant, you can be rest assured that when you have sex, you will last longer. Find and apply the Emperor’s Delay Cream during intercourse.

It will control it – Uche That’s it for today. The names of the people featured here have been changed for their privacy. Adults in need of these treatments/novelties can call 08191978308 or 08027901621 or any other number here to order or they can order online at www.zeevirtualmedia.com. Zee Virtual Media delivers to you wherever you are in Nigeria.

For enquiries, send your emails to custserv@zeevirtualmedia.com - Uche Edochie, MD, Zee Virtual Media.

44— Vanguard, TUESDAY OCTOBER

9, 2012

Police arrest two bank drivers who serve as informants to robbers •Final year university student also member of the gang

BY EVELYN USMAN

T

HE Police in Lagos have ar rested eight suspected members of separate bank robbery gangs that raided two new generation banks recently, where the sum of N8 Million was carted away in one of the operations. Surprisingly, two of the suspects were discovered to be drivers attached to both banks. They confessed during interrogation to have given the robbers information on how and when to storm the banks.

Also arrested by the command,was a total of 130 suspected members of a notorious robbery gang known as one ‘Million boys’ that have been terrorising residents of Ajegunle area of Lagos.

Parading the bank suspects among whom were final year, a 400 student of the Olabisi Onobanjo University, Ogun state, an NCE student of Tai Solarin University of Education and a Muslim Cleric, yesterday, at the command’s headquarters, Ikeja, the command’s boss, Mr Umar Manko said drivers of

•Muftau Eleduwe, Muslim cleric and other suspects.

N8 Million and another in , Isolo on August 29 2012.. Investigation is still on”, Manko stated.

The 27 year-old driver attached to one of the banks,

,

I told the robbers that they should go to the bank by 5.30pm because by then, the policemen attached there would have gone. I was given N100,000 at the end of the day

the banks who he identified as Taiwo Aremu and Rasheed Anifowose, were arrested by policemen from the Area ‘D’ command, Mushin. “ They made confessional statements which led to the arrest of eight others and the recovery of one locally made pistol with one live cartridge and the case was subsequently transferred to the Special AntiRobbery Squad, Ikeja for further investigation on October 2, 2012.

The suspects were interrogated and they further confessed that their armourer and gang leader , Adedokun Yusuf and Ahmed Adelakun were in Aiyetoro. Consequently, they led SARS operatives to Aiyetoro in Ogun state, where the duo were arrested and two locally made pistols with four live cartridges recovered. The suspects who normally operate with the collaboration of insiders , confessed to have robbed the Mushin branchof a second , Matori branch , on may 25, 2012,where they carted away C M Y K

,

Aremu Taiwo , admitted to have given the robbers that stormed his bank information on how to get in, saying he got the sum of N300,000 at the end of the operation.

According to Taiwo, a father of two from Ogun state, “ I told them to come on Friday, that the back door of the bank was usually opened at about 5.30pm. I met one of the gang members, Muri around my place at Aiyetoro. He is a panel beater . When my boss was looking for a panel beater, I recommended him and after the job, he sold the idea to me . They came on that day and collected the money they met in a room . By then, I had gone to home, so that I would not be linked or even killed. . At the end of the day, I was given the sum of N300.000” On his part, driver of the second bank(names withheld) Rasheed, alleged that he was hypnotized by a Muslim cleric, Muftau Eleduwe. According to him., “ I had gone to his place for spiritual help for my

mother’s health and other family problems . But along the line, he asked where I was working and when I told him, he said he would get me people who would rob the bank and at the end of the day, give me money, an offer I refused.

He later called me to bring my photograph for him to pray on it and I did. The thing thing was that I found myself acting in obedience to his command. he brought the people and I told them to come to the bank by 5.30pm because by then, the policemen attached there would have gone. I was given N100,000 at the end of the day.

•Taiwo Aremu, one of the banks’ drivers But the second operation was not successful because two of the suspects were arrested and they mentioned my name.

But in a sharp reaction, the Muslim Cleric also arrested , denied hypnotizing Rasheed.

However along the line, he was linked to both gangs as their spiritual back-up. In his confession, he admitted both drivers usually came for prayers.

Hear him, “ I am not a robber. They only came to me to pray for the success of the works of their hands . After the first bank robbery which was successful, they gave me the

sum of N307,000” The 400-level student of Cooperative and Business Management from the Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ogun state, Adedokun Yusuf, in whose apartment the weapons used for the robbery operation were found, said he was not a member of the gang. According to him, “ I belong to Aiye Confraternity. And I am the armourer. One of the gang members, Azees told me to give him two guns . I initially refused but being a member of same cult I gave him and he gave me N180,000 . I did not know he used it to go to rob”

••Two policemen, two robbers die in gun duel A 12-man robbery gang in the early hours of yesterday morning, laid ambush for a team of policemen on patrol at new Oko-Oba area of Lagos, killing two of the policemen in the process.

The deceased, an Assistant Superintendent of Police and an Inspector, reportedly displayed rear bravery even at the point of death as they reportedly made effort to engage the robbers in a shootout,thereby killing two of the robbers. There were different accounts on how the policemen attached to new OkoOba division were killed. A version of the account had it that the patrol team was on its way to respond to a distress call when the bandits

who were in three different vehicles, opened fire at Paying Junction near Olaniyi street.

Another version said the policemen numbering four were on night patrol when they sighted the vehicles; a Hilux pick-up and two Toyota Sienna cars which they mistook for that of their Area Commander. The account said they parked as a mark of honour for their presumed boss, only to be greeted by sporadic shots which jolted them.

Time was 2am.The ASP and Inspector said to have taken cover behind the patrol van, returned fire. But the robbers as gathered gathered, aimed at the policemen legs, causing the ASP identified simply

as Niyi to fall down, from where they riddled his body with bullets. The Inspector was also gunned down while the rest, a Sergeant and Corporal managed to escape the scene.

Vanguard gathered that a reinforcement from the division arrived the scene. But by then, the robbers had fled, leaving the dead policemen and robbers in the pool of their blood.

Spokesperson for the Lagos State Police Command, Ngozi Braide said two locally made pistols and live cartidges were recovered from the dead robbers, adding that their bodies had been deposited at the mortuary.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2012 — 45

HIGH POINTS •Reclamation of Eko Atlantic City.

Coastal erosion: Stakeholders fault development of Eko Atlantic city

By JUDE NJOKU

I

SSUES bordering on coastal erosion, the development of the multi-billion dollar Eko Atlantic City Project, demolition of shanties along the coastline and enforcement of environmental laws took the centre stage at a roundtable in Lagos last week.

The roundtable which drew environmentalists and officials of the Federal and Lagos State Governments as well as South Energy X Limited, developers of the model city, was convened by Messrs Heinrich Boll Stiftung in Nigeria in conjunction with Community Conservation Development Initiative, CCDI and Environmental Law Research

•LASG, developers n o insist that multi-billi m project saved VI fro extinction M.T. Okorodudu -Fubara and Prof Larry Awosika of NIOMR, picked holes in the Environmental Impact Assessment, EIA and development of the city. The EIA which was done by a Dutch Marine Engineering Company, Messrs Royal Haskoning, was allegedly submitted to the FME in 2011 when land reclamation for the project started as far back as 2008. Okorodudu-Fubara who informed that the Federal Government has withdrawn the draft EIA to the project because

,

The EIA which was done by a Dutch Marine Engineering Company, Messrs Royal Haskoning, was allegedly submitted to the FME in 2011 when land reclamation for the project started as far back as 2008

Institute, ELRI..

Those who addressed the oneday roundtable with the theme: Sustainability of Coastal Environments: The uncertainties and risks of infrastructural development”at the Nigerian Institute of Oceanography and Marine Research, NIOMR, in Victoria Island, included the Lagos State Commissioner for Waterfront and Infrastructure Development, Prince Adesegun Oniru, the Managing Director of South Energy X, Mr David Frame and officials of the Federal Ministry of Environment, FME. who made submissions to justify the development of Eko Atlantic City.

But environmentalists led by a law teacher at the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Mrs

,

of a lot of reservations, insisted that the scheme does not presently have an EIA. But the South-Energy X

boss who debunked the allegations, claimed that Victoria Island would have become extinct by now if the company did not embark upon the development of the highbrow city sited at the heart of the Atlantic ocean. He stated that prior to the commencement of the project, Ahmadu Bello Way and other adjourning streets in Victoria Island were always flooded, but noted that this scenario is no longer the case since work commenced on the development of Eko Atlantic.

Mr. Frames’ views were faulted by many stakeholders including Evangelist Yemi Okunyemi who alleged that they were forcibly evicted from their homes near the Bar-Beach to pave way for the development of Eko Atlantic City; Mr. Gbenga Okusnaya of the Ocean Surge Committee in Goshen Beach Estate who claimed that coastal erosion peaked at the highbrow

*Stakeholders allege that coastal erosion increased when South-Energy X began the development of Eko Atlantic City *Developers debunk the allegation and insisted that Victoria Island would have been wiped away by floods if work on the City did not start in 2008 owners of the land -the Federal Government and the Fisheries Department, wanted to take possession of their property. He recalled previous attempts by the State to compel the occupants of the shanties to vacate the beach and explained that their eviction became very necessary following a very bad fire incident in the neighbourhood. He insisted that the eviction was not done to pave way for the development of Eko Atlantic.

Developer of highbrow estate

estate when the development of Eko Atlantic began and Mr. Felix Muorka of SERAC, (an NGO) who picked holes with the City’s EIA. He also disagreed with the manner the State sacked residents of Makoko, a waterfront shanty in the Yaba area.of the city.

Reacting to the allega tions, Prince Oniru said the State Government unveiled plans by the state Government to roll out a holistic solution to the coastal erosion problems currently ravaging the “centre of excellence”. Details of the panacea which is expected to solve the coastal erosion problems being experienced by coastal communities, would be unfolded in the next few weeks.

The Commissioner faulted Evangelis Okunyemi’s claims that they were forcibly evicted.

He noted that the displaced residents of Bar-Beach were sent packing because the original

On the flooding of Goshen Beach Estate, the Commissioner alleged that the developer of the highbrow estate, defied the orders of the State Government and built on alignments very close to the Ocean. That not withstanding, the government, Prince Oniru said, has taken proactive measures to ensure that the residents of the highbrow estate are not displaced by coastal erosion or ocean surge.

He took a swipe at the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety agency, NIMASA, for not doing its work to rid the coastline around Maiyegun and Alpha Beach of abandoned vessels and ship wreaks.

On the alleged demolition of Makoko barely 72 hours after a formal notice was served on the fishing community, the Commissioner wondered why anybody would complain about the demolition of the shanty which he said was defacing the mega-city.

How to install pre-hung doors Installing a new door is an easy task that doesn’t take any time at all.

Measure the door frame After removing the old five-sided door, measure the doorway opening. When you have their measurements, lay the door on sawhorses. measures door way opening to prepare for new door Cut the door Mark the pre-hung door for the opening adding an inch or two for carpet to run underneath the door. Put painter’s tape along the length of their mark and

on the plate of the saw. Then cut the door along the mark. Applying painter ’s tape over the mark keeps the door from being marred by the saw and to keep the door from splitting while cutting Cut the door frame Next, measure and cut the door frame.

These measurements do not have to account for the carpeting.

Add the hinges Hold the door while someone screws the hinges and the door together. Then walk the door over to the doorway.

Level the door

When the door is level, shoot framing nails through the frame to the wall, making sure to preserve the spaces between the door and the wall.

Finish the door Finally, apply low expansion foam to the spaces between the door and the wall, filling the spaces around the nails first. The foam expands, hardens and keeps the door in place and can be used instead of shims. Cut any excess foam flush to the wall after the foam dries with a straight edge.

46 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2012

Architects tasked on improvement of skills

MATERIALS WATCH Cement Dangote cement per bag of 50kg ---N1,800.00 Burham Cement per bag of 50kg ---N1,800.00 Elephant cement per bag of 50kg ---N1,800.00 Sandcrete Blocks 6 inches vibrated per block---N130 9 inches vibrated per block---N150 6 inches hand mould per block---N80 9 inches hand mould per block---N90

By KINGSLEY ADEGBOYE

N

EWLY registered archi tects have been challenged to equip themselves with the latest tools, information and technology as well as retraining programmes within and outside the country if they are to compete effectively with their counterparts who are already making waves across the world.

One of the old breeds in the architecture profession, Mr. Isaac Olusola Agbesua threw the challenge to the upcoming architects at the presentation of his works in Lagos. The forum was the Architect-In-Focus, an annual programme put together by the Lagos State Chapter of NIA. “In the global village, what is the lot of the Nigerian architect? Are we are able to compete? Across the world, a new generation of architects are making waves, experimenting with new materials and technology. You only need to see what is happening in Dubai, Singapore and some other third world countries to appreciate that the train is moving and the world will not wait for us,”Agbesua said.

Renowned architect The renowned architect who was involved in the designs of various major public and private projects of note, also called on the NIA at the national level to discuss with both Federal and State Governments on the possibility of improving on the current scale of fees being charged by architects. He made a case for architects to be involved at the initial designs of bridges, highways and railway stations.

Agbesua who decried the plight of his colleagues said:”We have been victims of political changes and inept political leadership. The selfinflicted economic woes have taken their toll on architects, and for quite a number of us, the battle for survival rages on.

Rules are not obeyed anymore.

Architects now participate in competitions for free under the guise of making proposals and non-Nigerian registered foreign architects practice in Nigeria with impunity.

I

n fact, the cream of avail able patronage goes to them. The excuse most of time is that the projects came as a package and the financiers had to use their own consultants.

This is what they refer to as direct foreign investment. If you are a beggar, what can you

Sand Soft per tipper load ---N13,000 Sharp double tipper load---N23,000 Gravel double tipper load---N25,000 Gravel single tipper load---N18,000 Granite per tipper load----N120,000 Reinforcement 8 mm (153) pieces per ton ---N125,000 10 mm (153) pieces per ton---N136,000 12 mm (93) pieces per ton---N161,000 16 mm (93) pieces per ton---N172,000 20 mm (53) pieces per ton---N122,000 Woods Timber (hard) 1x1x12---N1,000 Timber (hard) 2x2x12---N800 Timber (hard) 2x4x12---N700 Softwood 2x2x12---N260 2x3x12---N300 Plywood 3x3x8---N3,500 2x4x8---N2,400

•Architectural masterpiece do?

Continuing, he said: “The down turn of the construction industry in Nigeria is that middle to grade A projects are still dominated by foreigners. In the seventies, the Head of State then, General Yakubu Gowon introduced the idea of giving mobilization to contractors, particularly the local ones to enable them compete with their foreign counterparts.40 years on, the report is still very woeful. The major reason for this is that local contractors up to now have been mainly uneducated businessmen.

“To cope with the challenges of the times, architects must

now find out and get involved in construction, facility management and project development. In this era of public private partnership, we have to create jobs for ourselves instead of waiting for patronages. The tools available to us have truly brought us to the age of dot com,” he said.

The chairman of the chapter, Ladipo Lewis said the forum is the chapter’s effort to honour, profile, study, document and learn from senior architects in the profession whose careers will provide inspiration for the younger generation of architects in the country.

Roofing Sheets Corrugated iron sheets per bundle---N10,000 Asbestos (Super) 4x8 per piece---N1,600 Asbestos (Solo) 4x6 per piece---N1,500 Wall tiles (ceramic) 6 x 6 per square metre----------N1,200 20 x 20 (China) per square metre----------N1,100 20 x 25 (China) per square metre---....N1,400 Floor tiles (ceramic) 14 x 14 (Spain) per square metre------------N1,800 14 x 14 (Brazil) per square metre------------N1,420 13 x 13 (Spain) per square metre---------N1, 550 45 x 45 (Spain) per square metre------------N1,900 40 x 40 (Marble Spain) per square metre--N3,800 30 x 30 (Marble Spain) per square metre----N2,000 Plumbing Materials Galvanised conduit pipes per length 20 mm diameter -----------------N170 25 mm diameter---------------N170 PVC conduit pipes 20 mm diameter per length -------N120 25 mm diameter per length------N130 Source-----------Cement tiles and building materials market along Lagos/Abeokuta Expressway.

Oxfam steps up campaign to end land grabs

By JUDE NJOKU

O

XFAM, an international develop ment agency working in more than 90 countries worldwide, has stepped up its campaign to end land grabs that violate the rights of the world’s poorest people. The Agency has therefore tasked the World Bank to temporarily freeze its agricultural investments in land so it can review its advice to developing countries, help set standards for investors and introduce more robust policies to stop landgrabs.

The Bank’s investments in agriculture have increased by 200 per cent in the last 10 years, while its private sector arm, the International Finance Corporation, sets standards followed by many investors.

Oxafam noted that land eight times the size of the UK was sold off globally in the last decade, enough to grow food for a billion people. This is the equiv-

alent to the number of people who go hungry in the world today.

In its new report, Our Land, Our Lives, Oxfam warns that more than 60 per cent of investments in agricultural land by foreign investors between 2000 and 2010 were in developing countries with serious hunger problems. However, two thirds of those investors plan to export everything they produce on the land. Nearly 60 percent of global land deals in the past decade have been to grow crops that can be used for biofuels.

A statement by the development agency stated that “Oxfam supports greater investment in agriculture and to small-scale farmers. However the unprecedented rush for land has not been adequately regulated or policed to prevent land grabs. This means that poor people continue to be evicted, often violently, without consultation or compensation. Many lose their homes and are left destitute, without access

to the land they rely on for food to eat and make a living.

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lready an area of land the size of London is being sold to foreign investors every six days in poor countries. In Liberia, 30 per cent of the country has been swallowed up by land deals in just five years. Oxfam calculates that land deals tripled during the food price crisis in 2008 and 2009 because land was increasingly viewed as a profitable investment. With global food prices again hovering at record levels urgent action is needed to stop the threat of another wave of land grabs.”

Oxfam’s Executive Director, Jeremy Hobbs said: “The world is facing an unbridled land rush that is exposing poor people to hunger, violence and the threat of a life-time in poverty. The World Bank is in a unique position to stop this from becoming one of the great scandals of the 21st century”.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2012—47

ENVIRONMENT WATCH

LAWMA boss explains involvement of children in waste management

By KINGSLEY ADEGBOYE

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HE Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Lagos State Waste Management Authority LAWMA, Mr. Ola Oresanya has explained why the Authority has decided to involve children in its waste management efforts. He said the idea is to inculcate the values of waste recycling into children so that when they become adults, it will become part and parcel of them. He added that “it is about how children can appreciate value chain in waste management. It is to let children have the perception about recycling processes so that they will know that what we actually call waste is not waste, but a resource.

Oresanya’s clarification last week at LAWMA’s Open Day at its Ijora head office was a response to the criticism that trailed ‘ waste for food’ programme for children which LAWMA recently launched.

The critics had noted that the programme was a form of child abuse as it exposed children to dangers through scavenging, But in his response, LAWMA boss said the criticism was a statement of deprived minds, and expression of level of ignorance, pointing out that when ‘you have half knowledge about something, it is usually good to research more and have an understanding of an issue before we talk about

it. I have listened and read about those who criticise our waste for food programme, and it just tells me that we need to let people know more about it.

“The key issue here is not about scavenging, it is about inculcating the values of recycling to our children. It is about how children can appreciate value chain in waste management. It is to let children have the perception about

recycling processes so that they will know that what we actually call waste is not waste, but a resource. Waste for food is not scavenging because I don’t think anyone has actually seen any child around dump site picking waste materials.

Scavenging is abnormal, it is not authorised, and no sane person will encourage children to go into scavenging.

‘But at your door step, we

need to give value to waste, we need to separate waste. We have a recycling club, and people subscribe to this club.

When you subscribe to the recycling club, we collect your waste from your house at a discount rate. Many people have been subscribing to it, and they are reaping the benefit.

While non-subscribers pay about N1000 per month for carting away their waste, sub-

Designated eateries

•Mr Oresanya and kids during waste for food launch.

World Habitat Day: UN -Habitat seeks improvement on city life I

N celebrating this year ’s World Habitat Day, the UN’s city agency, UN-Habitat has called for nations and citizens alike to harness the opportunities found in cities and towns to encourage social and economic development.

In the context of pressing economic times and increasing urban populations, especially among the youth, this year’s theme Changing cities, building opportunities rings especially true. In an official statement, UN Secretary-General, Ban Ki-moon, said “This year’s Rio +20 conference on sustainable development recognized the importance of cities to economically, socially and environmentally sustainable societies. On this World Habitat Day, let us urgently commit to work together for integrated, holistic management of the urban environment for the benefit of people and the planet.”

In his statement, UN Under-Secretary-General and Executive Director of UN-Habitat, Joan Clos, said that the quest to improve our cities is now more C M Y K

scribers pay just N500 per month. That is giving value because you are able to add value to that waste.

‘We also have a buy-back product for adults who don’t have work to do. We allow them to go out there and salvage what other people discarding because there are a lot of industries waiting to use those waste materials, and we pay them for those waste they bring from households and door steps. Most of you have seen it running, and a lot of people are making big money from it.

We believe that the three months vacation for school children is too long to keep them idle. So, the programme is a way of engaging children during the holidays within their households.

urgent than ever.

“Given that, historically, urbanisation has been a source of development rather than a result of it, it is clear that it can be used as a powerful tool for transforming production capacities and income levels in developing countries,” said Clos. ”This requires a mindset shift on the part of decision makers, away from viewing urbanisation as a problem, and instead towards seeing it as a tool for development.”

Hosted by the Government of Kenya, the day’s events were held at the Embu Municipal Stadium and opened by Joan Clos; Soita Shitanda, the Kenya Minister for Housing; George Owuor, Permanent Representative of the Kenya Mission to the United Nations Office in Nairobi (UNON) and Peter Muriithi Nyaga, the Mayor of Embu.

The theme Changing Cities, Building Opportunities was chosen for this year ’s event because cities are the engines of growth.

When planned well, cities can continue to provide opportunities to cur-

rent and future residents, while the unplanned growth of cities leads to chaotic development and urban sprawl. This ties in with the new UN-Habitat campaign, I am a city changer which seeks to involve all in making their cities a better place to live.

The latest edition of UN-Habitat’s flagship report, The State of World’s Cities 2012 -2013: the Prosperity of Cities, calls for new thinking on how we can advance towards the urban f u t u r e , particularly in seeking for shared and holistic prosperity. By concentrating on the urban future, this year ’s event aims to focus international attention to the impact of rapid urban growth and opportunities that cities can offer.

They can tell their fathers that the old newspapers in their homes can be exchanged for a pack of food at any of our designated eateries instead of throwing them away or burning them. They can tell their fathers or mothers that the plastic bottles littering in their homes and begging for space can be converted to money by sorting and taking them to any of locations for money.

‘The children are now aware that those waste materials if taken to LAWMA can fetch them a voucher that can give a pack of food at any of our partner eateries worth N500 from those old newspapers or nylons or plastic bottles their parents would have thrown away or burnt as waste. The programme is a way of developing value chain in waste management in children’, Oresanya explained.

LAWMA boss who also explained about the Open Day, said the day is not just for children alone, but for the general public and everybody who is interested in knowing waste management processes. He added that often times, people don’t know about the processes involved in what LAWMA does. So, the Open Day is just a date for people to get familiarized with our process, what we do and how we got to where we are’, he said.

48—Vanguard, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2012

I've faith in the Armed Forces— Jonathan

By BEN AGANDE

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BUJA—President Goodluck Jonathan, yesterday, urged the leadership of the country’s armed forces to deal decisively with the twin challenge of terrorism and crude oil theft by bringing up new ways to arrest the menace.

President Jonathan, who spoke while decorating the new service chiefs, said his administration will continue to give adequate support to members of the Armed Forces to ensure that they discharge their responsibilities creditably.

He said: “I will like to use this forum to specially charge you to tackle the many security challenges confronting our nation today. More specifically the chief of naval staff with his officers and men have the honourary responsibility of up-scaling security in our territorial waters. The unacceptable rising incidences of crude theft must be tackled frontally. I expect the Chief of Naval Staff and other serving Chiefs to immediately go to work to urgently bring the issue of crude oil theft to an

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end.

“May I further reiterate that the security of life and property in all parts of this country is a sacred obligation, which our administration will do everything in its power to live up to. We cannot allow threat to national security to compromise our national transformation effort. While we reposition Nigeria for sustained growth and development, we shall proactively prosecute the fight against terrorism with total commitment and effectively check the activities of all criminal elements in our dear land.

“In this regard, we will step up initiatives aimed at strengthening and repositioning our security agencies for greater efficiency to discharge their constitutional responsibilities.”

He also noted that the newly appointed officers and the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Azubuike Ehijerika, who retained his appointment, were appointed in recognition of their notable attributes of patriotism, excellence, loyalty, dedication, courage and unwavering faith in Nigeria. Jonathan said: “For

each of them, these ideals have marked their individual distinguished careers in the Nigerian Armed Forces. These fine officers and gentlemen are taking up command at a time when our nation is faced with serious challenges.

“Given their inspiring antecedent, however, and working in synergy with other security services, I am confident that they will bring fresh impetus into the new security architecture to combat the menace of terrorism in all its ramifications, across the length and breath of Nigeria."

FORUM: From left— Christian Malamsha, Dean, Faculty of Co-operative and Community Development, Moshi University College of Co-operatives and Business Studies, MUCCoBS, Tanzania; Jonathan Dangwara, Director, Federal Department of Co-operatives in Nigeria; Modupe Ladipo, Chief Executive Officer, EFInA; Joseph Nyagah, Minister for Co-operative Development and Marketing, Kenya, and Jibrin Bala, President, Co-operative Federation of Nigeria, CFN, at the EFInA Co-operative Dissemination Forum in Abuja.

Court dismisses FinBank's objection over N670m Lagos suit

BY ABDULWAHAB ABDULAH & BARTHOLOMEW MADUKWE

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LAGOS State High Court sitting in Igbosere, yesterday, dismissed the objections raised by FinBank Plc (formerly First Inland Bank Plc) in a N670 million fraud charge instituted against the bank, by Lagos State.

In his ruling, Justice Christopher Balogun said, “In conclusion, the preliminary objection, motion on notice of the defendant dated 27 February, 2012 fails in its entirety and it is consequently hereby dismissed. This shall be the Order of the court.”

The court held that a company can be regarded if the persons can be identified as a natural person,

adding that the bank must come for arraignment since the objections raised by FinBank’s counsel, Prof.

Yemi Osinbajo SAN, has been quashed.

“I think what is important here is that ability of the prosecution to identify the officer or employee in the company as stated in Section 20 of the law. And as stated earlier, whether Nnezi Kalu

and Otobong Asuquo legal practitioners are officers of the employee of formerly FinBank Plc. However this must be led in evidence at the trial” the judge said.

Justice Balogun explained that until the decision of preliminary objection is dealt with, the defendant (FinBank) can then be compelled for the arraignment.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2012 — 49

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50 — Vanguard,

TUESD AY , TUESDA

OCTOBER 9, 2012

Romney slams Obama’s foreign policy R

EPUBLICAN presi dential candidate Mitt Romney offered a sweeping critique of President Barack Obama’s handling of threats in the Middle East on Monday in a foreign policy address in which he tried to present himself as a credible mainstream alternative.

Romney departed from his focus on the U.S. economy to talk about how he would handle foreign policy if elected November 6. The speech allowed Romney to lay out his national security positions ahead of his October 16 debate with Obama, which will include discussion of foreign policy.

His aim was to portray himself as having the presidential stature needed for the world stage, and he sought to convince Americans that he would project strong American leadership

around the world but not rush blindly into armed conflict. The address was intended to reframe Romney’s approach following harsh criticism he drew last month for inserting

campaign politics into the killing of the U.S. ambassador to Libya, Chris Stevens, and after a gaffefilled trip to Britain, Israel and Poland in July.In a speech to white-uni-

formed cadets at the Virginia Military Institute, Romney raised questions about Obama’s handling of Libya and accused him of failing to use U.S. diplomacy to shape events

in Iran, Iraq, Israel, Syria, Russia, and elsewhere.

“The president is fond of saying that ‘The tide of war is receding,’” Romney said. “And I want to believe him as much as

Cote d’Ivoire re-opens borders with Ghana

I

VORY Coast has an nounced it will reopen its border with eastern neighbour Ghana, more than two weeks after it was shut over a series of deadly attacks Ivorian officials said were launched from Ghanaian territory.

Paul Koffi Koffi, the Ivorian defence minister, announced on RTI public television on Sunday that President Alassane Ouattara had decided the borders would reopen after both countries tightened security with the aim of stopping incursions. All borders were closed on

September 21 after gunmen attacked a border checkpoint at Noe in Ivory Coast and then fled to Ghana, but air links were reopened on September 24.

Five assailants were killed in the shootout, another five were arrested, while the rest fled into Ghana, Ivorian officials said. ha- •Ivorien soldiers on border patrol. naian police said they had arrested three 47 rifles on suspicion preventing any incurmen in possession of AK- that they were plotting to sion” while Ouattara overthrow Ouattara’s and his Ghanaian coungovernment. terpart John Dramani Koffi said that since Mahama “have stayed the closure “the two in permanent contact”. brotherly countries have “As a result President world. strengthened their secu- Alassane Ouattara de“This has been the per- rity along the common cided that from Monday fect battle, a democratic border with the aim of October 8, 2012 at sevbattle,” Chavez thundered from the palace balcony late on Sunday, holding up a replica of the sword of independence hero Simon Bolivar. “Venezuela will conMembers of the GNC tinue along the path of IBYA’S parliament on Thursday lambasted democratic and Bolivarihas passed a no-con- those choices, calling an socialism of the 21st fidence vote in the new- them either incompecentury.” ly-elected prime minis- tent, unknowns, or remIt was an extraordinary ter, Mustafa Abu nants from the old tranvictory for a leader who Shagur, dismissing him sitional government. just a few months ago from his post.

Their rejection came feared for his life as he Abu Shagur had until after more than 100 prostruggled to recover from Sunday to form a cabicancer. He won 54.4 per- net, or risk losing his cent of the vote, with 90 job. His first list of 29 percent of the ballots ministers was rejected counted, compared with for not being diverse URKEY’S military 45 percent for Capriles. enough; a second, launched a retaliatoTurnout was a record 80 shorter list, submitted on percent of registered vot- Sunday, was also reject- ry strike after Syria fired ers, boosting Chavez’s ed by lawmakers, who a mortar shell into coundemocratic credentials voted 125 to 44 in favour tr yside in Turkey ’s southern province of despite critics’ depiction of removing him. of him as a dictator.

Under the General Hatay on Monday, a Supporters dripping National Congress’s Turkish state official told with sweat strained to rules, lawmakers will Reuters.

It was the sixth concatch a glimpse of now elect a new premier. secutive day of Turkish Chavez from the street The original list of 29 below the palace while ministers, which includ- retaliation against bomdancing and drinking ed one woman, was com- bardment from the Syrirum. “Chavez, the people prised of several mem- an side of the border, are with you!” they chant- bers of the transitional where President Bashar ed. government and many al-Assad’s forces are bat“He will keep protect- unknown figures; there tling rebels.

The exchanges are the ing the poor, the defense- were no representatives less and the old,” said of the main liberal coali- most serious cross-border violence in Syria’s teacher Gladys Montijo, tion. revolt against Assad, 54, weeping with joy.

Chavez promises more reforms

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ENEZUELAN Presi dent Hugo Chavez promised to deepen his socialist revolution after a comfortable election victory that could extend to 20 years his polarizing leadership of the South American OPEC nation.

Tens of thousands of ecstatic supporters thronged the streets around the presidential palace overnight, pump-

ing fists in the air after the former soldier beat opposition candidate Henrique Capriles by 9 percentage points.

The new six-year term will let Chavez consolidate his control over Venezuela’s economy, possibly by extending a wave of nationalizations, and continue his support for left-wing allies in Latin America and around the

Assange guarantors get order to pay bail fee

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INE people who put up bail for WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange, including two members of the British aristocracy and a Nobel Prize winner, were ordered to pay 93,000 pounds ($150,000) on Monday after Assange took refuge in Ecuador’s embassy.

The guarantors - who include Nobel prize-winning biologist John Sulston - are liable for part of the 140,000 pound bail fee they pledged, Westminster Magistrate’s Court ruled. They were given until November 6 to pay up.

Assange, whose whistleblowing website angered the United C M Y K

anyone. But when we look at the Middle East today...it is clear that the risk of conflict in the region is higher now than when the president took office,” he said.

States by releasing thousands of U.S. diplomatic cables, was arrested in December 2010 on an extradition warrant from Sweden where he is wanted for questioning over allegations of rape and sexual assault made by two women. He denies wrongdoing and says he fears that if he is extradited to Sweden he could be transferred to the United States where he could face criminal charges punishable by death.

The 41-year-old Australian broke the conditions of his bail when he entered the Ecuadorean embassy in June shortly after running out of legal options to avoid being sent to Sweden.

en in the morning the land and sea borders will reopen,” Koffi said.

President Mahama said on September 26 that Ghana would not allow its territory to be used as a base to attack neighbouring nations.

He noted “the unfolding tensions in Ivory Coast”, and said Ghana “ will not harbour any individuals or groups whose intent is to utilise Ghana as a base of operation to undermine the safety and security of another nation”, in an address to the United Nations that was distributed in Accra. The closure of the frontiers caused major difficulties for trade between the neighbours and for residents of the border region.

Libyan parliament passes no-confidence vote on PM

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testers stormed the national assembly’s headquarters on Thursday, demanding greater representation for the western town of Zawiyah and reportedly calling for Abu Shagur ’s resignation.

Turkey strikes Syria back

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which began in March last year with protests for reform and has evolved into a civil war with sectarian overtones which threatens to draw in regional powers.

The latest mortar round from Syria landed 150-200 meters within Turkey’s border in the district of Hacipasa at about 3 p.m. (1200 GMT), the official said.

Turkey’s armed forces have bolstered their presence along the 900 km (560 mile) border with Syria in recent days.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2012 — 51

52 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2012

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Vanguard, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2012—53

L-r: Mr. George Etomi, Partner, George Etomi Partners; Mr. Gerald Rasugu, Ex Safaricom, Lead Agent Network Group, Shore Bank International (SBI), Kenya, Guest Speaker; Mr. Avi Eratapalli, Global Product Manager, Mobile Solution, USA, Guest Speaker; Mrs. Ceu Pereira, Senior Payment Expert in the Payment Systems Development Group of the World Bank, Guest Speaker and Mr. Obinna Micheal, Mr. Obyno (left), winner of the Amstel Malta Showtime Howard Williams, Professor Emeritus University of Stathclide, Guest Speaker, during the de novo singing category performing with superstar Tuface Idibia at the Eko Hotel and reach legal, two-day conference on Nigeria Transiting to a Cash-Less Society, Possiblities and Towers and Suites in Lagos Challenges, in Lagos. Photo: Bunmi Azeez

Nigeria, Saudi authorities end row over female pilgrims •They have been permitted to return ......Tambuwal

BY OKEY NDIRIBE

ABUJA—THE Saudi Arabian Government, yesterday, agreed to welcome deported Nigerian pilgrims who have valid travel documents. Speaker of the House Representatives Rt. Hon. Aminu Tambuwal

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disclosed this at the presidential wing of the Nnamdi Azikwe International Airport, Abuja on arrival from that country.

He had led a Presidential Committee which visited that country to intervene over the deportation of female pilgrims who were not accompanied by male

escorts last week. Those in the delegation included the Emir of Zuru, Alhaji Sani Sami, Alhaji Aminu Dantata, Professor Shehu Galadanchi, Chairman of Nigerian Hajj Commission (NAHCON), Alhaji Mohammed Bello, and the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs II, Dr.

Nurudeen Mohammed.

Tambuwal said the Saudi Arabian government was also considering Nigeria’s request of extending the airlifting deadline to accommodate the deported pilgrims. The speaker who expressed happiness at the outcome of the meeting also disclosed that the issue of male companions for female pilgrim was also settled as

the Nigerian delegation made it known that the issue of the companion (Muharam) was open to different interpretations from the four jurispidences in Islam.

He said: “Our interface with the Saudi authorities has been very successful because we had serious and deep engagement.

The first good news is that all those pilgrims who have secured valid visa are being taken back. The

understanding so far with them is that they will be allowed entry into Saudi Arabia.” According to Tambuwal, the meeting was able to consolidate the long standing relationship between the two countries, adding “assurances have been given to that effect. I believe that also, if need be we have requested for them to extend the time of airlift and also the time of issuance of visa to our pilgrims.”

54 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2012

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Vanguard, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2012 — 55

Bolt to defend sprint titles in Rio U

SAIN Bolt has re vealed he plans to defend his Olympic sprint titles in Rio de Janeiro in 2016 and not switch disciplines.

But, speaking on a trip to New Zealand, the world’s fastest man confirmed his only intention is to go for a third defence of his sprint crowns in Brazil.

“Rio is about going and defending my titles,” Bolt said in Auckland. “I don’t want to try any different events at Rio, because at Rio I will just defend my titles to show

the world that there is a possibility that I can do it again. To do the threepeat, that is the focus.”

He added: “It’s all about hard work. When I was doing great when I was young, people used to say I was fast for my age, but I have put a lot of work into since I was a senior athlete.

“I continue to work hard, continue staying focused and pushing myself so for me that’s the focus right now to see how fast I can go and I definitely try to go faster each year.”

Eagles land in Calabar

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OT known to be flippant when it comes to making promises, Super Eagles boss, Stephen Keshi, momentarily threw that to the winds when he assured Nigerians and especially Governor Liyel Imoke of Cross River and the people of the state that the national team will offer a sweet victory to the nation come Saturday October 13 when they square up against Liberia at the UJ Esuene Stadium.

Keshi who was overwhelmed by the huge reception accorded the team on arrival at the Margaret Ekpo International Airport, thanked the leadership of the state and urged Nigerians to continue to pray for the team. “Because

by God’s grace come Saturday we will give the nation a sweet victory and qualify for the Nations Cup in South

Africa”.

Keshi also spoke on the arrival of his army of European based professionals, revealing for the umpteenth time that he has the promise of all of them to be in Calabar by Tuesday at the latest.

He assured that there was enough time to prepare the team for the game against the Lone Star of Liberia, arguing that the fact that most of the players invited have been playing regularly for their clubsides is enough to make up for lost time.

The team was welcomed at the airport by the Commissioner of Sports, Hon. Patrick Ugbe, and a retinue of other top government functionaries, with the state chapter of the Nigeria Football and Other Sports Supporter Club drumming away to the delight of the seven home based players and officials.

Lone Star charter plane for Eagles Continued from B/P translates to US$10,000 (or L$73,000) per player, besides their regular allowances.

According to Snowe, some of the amount was used to underwrite the cost of the 8-day camping at the Red Bull Academy in Ghana, and the 2man delegation advance team to Calabar, which comprised of LFA Vice President Musa Shannon and Senator Geraldine Doe-Sherif.

He further disclosed that the remaining amount will be spent to ease the expected diffiC M Y K

culty which the Lone Star may incur, including hotel accommodation, local transport, food, water amongst others.

“We want to use this time to extend our thanks and appreciation to President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf who mandated Vice President Joseph Boakai to work with us to ensure the collection of the money.

“We want to thank Vice President Boakai for his time and effort and all those who contributed to this worthy cause.”

Stand up and be counted, Keshi tells Eagles

E

•Bolt

Nigerian ffootball ootball is sic k , sa ys Maigari sick says

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LHAJI Aminu Maigari, the President, Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) on Sunday in Ilorin ack n o w l e d g e d that“Nigerian football is sick”.

“We agree that we are having sickness in our

football, but thanks to God, Nigeria is blessed with talents and we will soon get back on track.”

Maigari said that the federation was having many contending issues but believed that the development of football in

the country was gradually returning to normal.

“The federation is fully aware of this and we are not relenting in our efforts. We have set up various committees to look and dig out what the problems are and how we can develop sponsors.''

AGLES’ coach, Stephen Keshi has urged his players to make it count when they play Liberia, in the winner takes it all second leg 2013 Nations Cup qualifier, October 13 in Calabar.

Keshi was speaking against the background of Nigeria’s drop from world and continental reckoning, as was testified in the recent FIFA rankings for the month of October. And as the Super Eagles square up against boastful Liberia, Keshi has urged the players to return Nigeria to the Nations Cup, which Nigeria missed in January, and it has been largely responsible for the free fall in the world rankings.

“I understand the concern of Nigerians because over the last ten years the Eagles have been dropping in performance levels, but who can right the wrong if not the players.

RVP in elbow storm

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OBIN VAN PERSIE faces an FA rap after elbowing Yohan Cabaye in the face.

Toon boss Alan Pardew wants the Dutch ace to be whacked with a threematch ban for violent conduct after the flashpoint in Manchester United’s easy win.

Van Persie was substituted moments later and Pardew said: “He’s looked at Yohan and he’s elbowed him. I think that needs to be looked at, if I’m honest. There is a bit of history here with Van Persie and I don’t know whether he’s got caught up in that.

“I actually thought Yohan wouldn’t have gone down if he hadn’t done something but I hadn’t seen it myself.

“But I’ve obviously seen the replay and it looks like he’s looked at him and put the elbow in.”

The £20million striker has a history of bad blood with Newcastle after becoming involved in a bust-up with Tim Krul at the Emirates last term.

Wayne Rooney avoided a lengthy ban last season after appearing to elbow Wigan’s James McCarthy

ROBIN RED MIST ... Van Persie and Cabaye clash and, asked if the FA should intervene, Pardew added: “That’s for them to look at, not me.”

Ref Howard Webb took no action against Van Persie but he will be asked

by FA chiefs today for his verdict on the incident.

Keshi insists on today's deadline Continued from B/P based and the 15 invited foreign based to slug it out against a highly motivated Liberia side to decide which country would pick the precious ticket for the Afcon.

‘I spoke with all the

invited players and they have all assured me that they would be in Calabar unfailingly on Tuesday which we have announced as the date that they should all gather there. So I don’t envisage any problem as re-

gards that,” Keshi told Goal.com on Sunday.

“I will lead the technical crew and the seven players that ply their trade here in the country to Calabar [on Monday] by the special grace of God,” he said.

VANGUARD, TUESDAY, OCT0BER 9, 2012

Lone Star charter plane for Eagles L

IBERIA authorities have hired a plane for Saturday’s Nations Cup qualifier against Nigeria in Calabar.

The mobilisation committee set up to raise funds to prosecute the all-important match has the country’s Vice President Joseph Boakai as a member and it has successfully secured a 100seater plane that would

convey both the team and supporters to Calabar for the crucial encounter.

They are hopeful of gaining the Nations Cup ticket at the expense of Nigeria and they are pressing all buttons to ensure this.

The Chairman of the Mobilization Committee, Edwin M. Snowe, at the weekend disclosed

that five government agencies and a foreign business executive contributed various sums of money towards the cause..

Vanguard Sports had reported that the committee, in collaboration with the Government of Liberia has put on the table US$300,000 as a winning package. This

Continues on Page 55

Keshi insists on today's deadline the first leg of the final

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UPER Eagles Coach, Stephen Keshi has told Goal.com that he expects all his invited Europe-based players to be in Calabar, venue of the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations final qualifying match by Tuesday.

Nigeria played a pulsating 2-2 draw with the Lone Star of Liberia in

•Keshi TODAY'S

PUZZLE

round of the qualifiers last month. Nigeria need a win or a goalless draw to ensure a passage to the finals of the continent’s biggest football competition holding in South Africa next January.

Keshi had picked the final 22 players which included seven home-

Continues on Page 55 YESTERDAY'S

ANSWERS

DUNK......Miami Heats’Chris Bosh dunks against the Atlanta Hawks at Philips Arena on October 7, 2012 in Atlanta, Georgia. Photo: Getty Images)

ACROSS 1 Singe (6) 5 Seek (6) 8 Desperado (8) 9 Association (4) 10 Suitable (3) 12 Intone (5) 15 Favourite (3) 17 Age (3) 18 Colour (3) 19 Hill (3) 20 Earlier (5) 21 Label (3) 22 Prosecute (3) 23 Consume (3) 24 Regret (3) 26 Renovate (5) 29 Still (3) 33 Notice (4) 34 Ban (8) 35 Ramble (6) 36 Enmity (6)

DOWN 2 Embrace (5) 3 Storm (4) 4 Knot (5) 5 Temptress (5) 6 Roguish (4) 7 Reason (5) 10 Change (5) 11 Curt (5) 12 Antic (5) 13 Foreign (5) 14 Cast (5) 15 Trivial (5) 16 Taut (5) 25 Overturn (5) 27 Eject (5) 28 Era (5) 30 Banish (5) 31 Novice (4) 32 Raise (4)

YESTERDAY'S SOLUTIONS ACROSS: 1, Able 4, Jut 6, Tidy 8, Casual 9, Accost 10, Tow 12, Admit 14, Strop 15, Table 18, Severe 20, Ramble 24, Dirge 26, Equal 28, Enact 30, Hew 32, Minute 33, Origin 34, Fete 35, Rut 36, Need.

How to Play Sudoku

THE VIGILANTE

DOWN: 2, Bland 3, Erudite 4, Jolt 5, Thaw 6, Tacit 7, Despit 11, Oil 12, Ass 13, Tar 16, Bed 17, Err 19, Enquire 21, Age 22, Mention 23, Eft 25, Ice 27, Acute 29, Chide 30, Heir 31, Wont.

e-mail: rowolove@yahoo.co.uk

Place a number (1-9) in each blank cell. (No line can have two of the same number).

Each row (nine lines from left to right), column, (also nine lines from top to bottom) and 3 X 3 block within a bold block (nine blocks) contains number from 1 through 9. This means that no number can appear twice in any block, column or row.

No mathematics is involved – no adding, subtraction, division or multiplication, just plain logic and your imagination.

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