ANTI-TERROR WAR: Caging Boko Haram is tough work - Army Police

...towards a better life for the people

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VOL. 25: NO. 62011

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Former President Kenneth Kaunda of Zambia (L) presenting The Best African Central Bank Governor's Award to CBN Governor, Alhaji Lamido Sanusi in Pretoria, South Africa on Saturday. PHOTO NAN.

ANTI-TERROR WAR:

Caging Boko Haram is tough work — ARMY, POLICE •Say insurgents would have taken over Nigeria if...

•Lament porous borders, scale of attacks, capacity •Security agencies need intelligence to win the war—Olubolade

BY KINGSLEY OMONOBI

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BUJA — THE Ni gerian Army and the police have identified porous borders, scale of terrorist attacks and the capacity of personnel as some of the challenges security agencies contend with in prosecuting the war on terror in the northern

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Mr & Mrs ANNIVERSARY—From left: Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan; Cross River State Governor, Liyel Imoke; President, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Pastor Ayo Oristejafor; his wife Helen and children; President Goodluck Jonathan and Plateau State Governor, Jonah Jang at the 44th Anniversary of the CAN President's church: Word of Life Bible Church, in Warri, Delta State, yesterday.

Fresh trouble for Guinness over unapproved advertisement 17 C M Y K

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POCKET CARTOON

SURE-P—Former Minister of State for Health, Dr Muhammed Pate (2nd-r) presenting midwifery kits to beneficiary, Hajia Zainab Umar, during the Sure-P subsidy reinvestment and empowerment conditional cash transfer pilot programme in Soro Ganjuwa LGA of Bauchi State on Saturday.

With them are the Executive Chairman, Bauchi State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr Nisser Ali (R) and Deputy Governor of Bauchi State, Alhaji Sagir Saleh (3rd-r), among others. Photo: NAN.

Caging Boko Haram is tough work — Army, Police Continues from page 1 part of the country.

The Army on its part declared that the Boko Haram insurgency which has ravaged some states in the north, leaving on its trail destruction of lives and property would have spread to other parts of the country if it had not been caged in the north.

Director of Army Public Relations, Brigadier-

General Ibrahim Attahiru, Inspector-General of Police, Mr Mohammed Abubakar and Minister of Police Affairs, Navy Captain Caleb Olubolade spoke to Vanguard in separate exclusive interviews on the challenges of fighting insurgency in parts of the country.

Army spokesman, Brigadier General Attahiru said: “The entire process of fighting

LIFEWORDS

BY PASTOR ITUAH

Don’t envy the signs of happiness in any man, because you do not know the secret grief he is experiencing; an average man has a grief unknown to most. Happiness is the capacity to carry life experiences well!

TAKE HEART

I

BY ELLA RANDLE

T isn’t what you have or who you are or where you are or what you are doing that makes you happy or unhappy. It is what you think about it —Dale Carnegie Anthony De Mello wrote that happiness is our natural state. Happiness is the natural state of little children, to whom the kingdom belongs until they have been polluted and contaminated by the follies of society and culture. To acquire happiness you don’t have to do anything, because happiness cannot be acquired. Does anybody know why? Because we have it already. How can you acquire what you already have? Then why don’t you experience it? Because you’ve got to drop something.

You’ve got to drop illusions. You don’t have to add anything in order to be happy; Life is easy, life is delightful. It’s only hard on your illusions, your ambitions, your cravings. Do you know where these things come from? From having identified with all kinds of labels- Abraham Lincoln sums it aptly: “People are just as happy as they make up their minds to be.”

terrorism cannot be over simplified because essentially, it is asymmetric warfare where you talk of asymmetric tactics and disposition and so on. But one thing with warfare is that you cannot just run away from challenges. However, what you fall back on is the kind of equipment you use in executing the warfare. In executing this warfare, it is not just about the weaponry, the emphasis is on the man behind the weapon.

Those are the issues.

“Nobody is going to say the entire campaign being executed is a very simple operation. It is quite complicated, but what I can assure you is that in no distant time, it will be all over, because each time there is a breach, we are learning a lesson, carrying out analyses and coming out with better strategies on how to counter challenges of the entire operation.

“Otherwise, may be by now, if you say we are experiencing setback and not achieving the mandate, the terrorists would have gone beyond the North East, they would have spread to other parts of Nigeria but it has been localized to the North East. That should tell you that the Nigerian Army, working in conjunction with other security agencies, is doing well in the

fight."

The Army spokesman also explained how the 7th Division of the Nigerian Army was created in the North-East with headquarters in Maiduguri. According to him, “the Division came on stream as a result of the strategic analysis carried out recently regarding the Force structure and the contemporary challenges. The implementation of the Nigerian Army Order of Battle (ORBAT) for 2013 was also considered before the Division came into being. So by and large, the mission of the Nigerian Army is to win all land battles”.

Also speaking on the war against terror from the perspective of the Police, Inspector-General of Police, Mr MD Abubakar said terrorism is difficult to fight and “it is not a question of whether the nation is under-policed or overpoliced”.

The police boss in an exclusive interview with Vanguard argued that, “ even if you have the correct number of policemen, there are several factors that come into play when dealing with the challenge. The scale of terrorist attacks and the organization are there, the issue of capacity to tackle the challenge is there, the equipment needed to counter the challenge as well as the fact that manning of this equipment requires training is also there. Moreover, this cankerworm called terrorism is a global phenomenon. There is an on-going war in Mali and don’t forget what is going on in Iraq. The Arab Spring is just subsiding, so there is proliferation of arms, ammunition and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and these are the factors that are key to tackling on-going insurgency. Another thing you must know is that Nigeria has the most porous borders in the world because you cannot say specifically, these are the number of borders, it is either you take Badagry or Banki or so many others.

“Terrorism is not something you can exterminate, and you know that nobody can exterminate crime anywhere in the world. If you are talking of a no crime situation, you are talking of total paralysis and total paralysis means nobody is

moving, everything is at a standstill. In the war against terror, show me any country that has fought crime and said it is finished, no more terrorism anywhere. There isn’t any country in the world, including the US where they have the best facilities, the besttrained officers and equipment”.

He said that in spite of the fact that officers and personnel of security agencies, the police, DSS, the military and paramilitary agencies are dying daily because of their belief that Nigeria must remain united, they will continue to do everything to protect this country.

Adding his voice to the debate on how to finally dislodge terrorists from the north, Minister of Police Affairs, Navy Captain Caleb Olubolade argued that we will witness massive improvement in the way we secure this nation if members of the public readily volunteer information that will assist the security agencies.

According to him, “nobody can secure any community without intelligence. Without information, security agencies cannot succeed because they will just be making wrong deployments and will be acting in different directions which will not help. Giving information is all that is needed and the security agencies will overcome”.

He said, “Once you see strange movements around you, relate it, take the pains to pass the information. With information, security agencies will deploy appropriately and they will do more than you expect”.

Olubolade disclosed that the necessary equipment needed to prosecute the campaign are being procured while training of officers to be up-to-date with modern

methods was going on and “ what is needed is for Nigerians themselves to partake in giving information”.

The Police Affairs Minister then tasked Nigerians not to politicize security issues, saying it is not going to help us.

“With a lot of activities from the government, political will and determination, and the security agencies putting up their best, certainly we will overcome these challenges”, he said.

Taraba deputy Speaker escapes assassination

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A L I N G O — D E P U T Y Speaker of Taraba State House of Assembly, Mr Adamu Tanko Maikarfi weekend escaped being killed by unknown assassins barely one week after the death of the speaker, Mr Haruna Tsokwa. The assassins were said to have trailed him to a certain location in Jalingo.

Confirming the assassination attempt, the Deputy Speaker said: "It is true that they came wanting to kill me in my brother ’s home. They got tips that I was there; when they came they did not meet me, after they searched all the rooms holding everyone at gunpoint. God saved me and I thank God, they did not also kill anyone in the house. Only the wife was traumatized as they took her around the house searching for me.”

He added that the security agencies in the state were aware of the development, and that he will continue to stand by the truth and will not bow to any pressure to compromise his office.

6—Vanguard , MONDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2013

5 killed, 2 injured in Bauchi auto crash

BY SUZAN EDEH

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AUCHI — TRAGEDY struck, yesterday, when five people were killed in an auto crash while two others sustained injury, along Nabardo village in Toro Local Government Area of Bauchi State.

The accident which occurred at about 2.20 p.m, involved a Toyota Carina car with number plate AA184GYD and an army articulated truck with number plate NA1707B0.

An eyewitness which pleaded anonymity said the driver of Toyota Carina was trying to overtake another vehicle when he collided with the truck.

According to him, “the scene of the accident is known to be a dangerous spot because the road is very narrow, any miscalculation can be very fatal, particularly when on high speed.”

The Federal Road Safety Sector, FRSC, commander in the state, Mr Sunday Henry Olatunji, said of the 10 victims, five were confirmed dead on the spot while two sustained injuries.

He said: “Of the 10 people that were affected by the crash, we have eight males and two females. Among the dead are three males and two females.”

Olatunji said when FRSC officers attached to the Toro unit command received the information, they went and evacuated the dead to the mortuary at the Toro General Hospital while the injured were treated.

While attributing the cause of the accident to over-speeding and dangerous overtaking, the sector commander cautioned motorists to adhere to traffic rules and regulations always.

NSCDC destroys 7 illegal refineries in Edo

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ENIN — THE Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, Edo Command, said it destroyed seven illegal refineries in the state, between January and November 2013.

The commandant of the corps in the state, Mr Chike Ikpeawonwu, who disclosed this in Benin said three of the refineries were destroyed in Iluoke and three in Agbede, both in Etsako West Local Government Area while one was destroyed at Abudu, in Orhionwon Local Government Area.

The commandant also disclosed that 25 trucks loaded with crude from vandalised pipelines, were confiscated by the command within the same period.

He noted that 15 of the confiscated trucks had, however, been destroyed, before the directive stopping the burning of seized trucks with crude was issued.

He said: “There is a standing order from Abuja that any truck impounded should not be burnt again, in order to avoid economic waste.”

Ikpeawonwu who decried the activities of vandals in the state, said the command was poised to curtail their activities.

The commandant, however, said lack of logistics posed enormous challenges to effective operation of the command.

Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) women's wing entertaining at the farewell ceremony for intending Christian pilgrims to Israel at Gombe airport, weekend. PHOTO: NAN.

10 feared dead as bus plunges into river in Bayelsa

BY SAMUEL OYADONGHA

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ENAGOA — AT least 10 persons were, weekend, feared dead along KaiamaSampou stretch of the EastWest road when a passenger bus reportedly plunged into the Okoso river in the Kolokuma-Opokuma Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.

The accident, which occurred at about 8.30pm on Saturday, reportedly caused traffic gridlock along the road with the men of the state security outfit, Doo Akpor, assisting in the rescue and evacuation of the corpses to the morgue.

Though there were conflicting reports about the causality figure, while some claimed 10 persons lost their lives in the accident, others said seven corpses were recovered by local divers and sympathizers.

It was gathered that most of the occupants of the ill-fated passenger bus were women and children.

A commercial bus driver, Mr. Emmanuel Eziya, told Vanguard that the ill-fated 18seater bus was conveying passengers to Yenagoa from a traditional marriage ceremony at

Woman, 46, allegedly raped, killed

BY GBENGA ARIYIBI

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DO EKITI – A 46-year old woman, Mrs. Eunice Titilayo Ogundele, was allegedly raped then murdered at Igede Ekiti, weekend, by yet to be identified persons.

According to the husband of the deceased, Mr.Michael Ogundele, his wife left home in the early hours of Friday for a church service at her pastor’s residence.

He said she was allegedly hit with a pestle on the head by her assailants on the way.

Ogundele in tears said: “Yesterday (Thursday) which was a market day, she went to the market and returned home to rest.

“This morning (Friday), we went our different ways after I opened the door a little after five o’clock. She left for an early morning church service at her pastor’s residence.

“We went our separate ways at Igede-Ado road. I did not know I was seeing her for the last time. Few minutes to six they called me to come to somewhere in the town. I went

and met my wife dead with two deep wounds on her head.”

The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Mr. Victor Olu Babayemi, who confirmed the incident said a suspect has been arrested and is making confessions.

Babayemi said: “I can confirm that someone is now in custody in respect of the rape and murder of a woman at Igede Ekiti and is making useful confessions.

“We are trying to see if other arrests could be made in the course of the investigation which is ongoing.”

Oginigbo in Ughelli South Local Government of Delta State.

He said the bus which was on high speed somersaulted and plunged into the river while attempting to overtake another vehicle on the narrow road.

He said: “Though the river is not too deep, only those who knew how to swim were involved in the rescue operation.”

According to him, the bus

driver, popularly known as Student and operated from the Opolo Motor Park in Yenagoa, was among those that died in the crash.

Miraculously, a nursing mother was said to have survived as she swam out of the river. She however lost her child in the crash.

Eight persons who sustained injuries, it was learnt, are currently receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital in the state.

Man rapes, kills 10-yr-old cousin

BY GBENGA OLARINOYE

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SOGBO — A 26-year-old man, Rafiu Idowu, is being detained by the Osun State Police Command for allegedly killing his 10-year-old cousin, Tawa Bilawu, after he allegedly raped her.

Idowu who confessed to have committed the offence, said the victim lured him into raping her when she paid a visit to him at his family residence at Ile-Ogbo in Ayedire Local Government Area of the state.

The Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, for the state Police Command, Mrs Folashade Odoro, said the suspect, who is currently in Police custody, was arrested by a team of detectives from the State Criminal Investigations Department, SCID, led by the Assistant Commissioner of Police, Mr Mohammed Jimoh.

According to the PPRO, the suspect who recently returned to the state from Lagos also smokes indian hemp.

The police claimed the suspect admitted that the deceased was his relative who pays him regular visit at his

residence, adding that the late Bilawu was known to every member of his family.

The suspect said: “Tawa Bilawu met me at the passage of my house when she came to visit me on that fateful day.

I asked her where she was going and she said somebody sent her somewhere but she decided to check on me.

“Bilawu later dragged me into my room where she removed my trousers and both of us went on bed. Then, Bilawu put my penis into her private part and started shouting. I then asked her the reason for the alarm.

“The alarm raised by Bilawu was after two minutes of sexual intercourse between us. When she started shouting, I got hold of her neck and nose and pressed them till she died.”

He admitted that the late Bilawu never had intercourse with him prior to the one that led to her death.

The state Commissioner of Police, Mrs Dorothy Gimba, has however directed that the case be investigated and the suspect arraigned.

Vanguard, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2013—7

Chime's wife: SERAP, WARDC petition UN agency

BY ABDULWAHAB ABDULAH

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OCIO-ECONOMIC Rights and Accountability Project, SERAP, and Women Advocate Research and Documentation Center, WARDC, have petitioned United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, UNWGAD, to investigate allegations of illegal detention of Mrs Clara Chime, wife of Enugu State Governor, by her husband, Mr. Sullivan Chime.

In the petition addressed to Mr. El Hadji Malick SOW, Chair-Rapporteur of the UN agency, the groups requested an urgent appeal to the governor and the Nigerian government to release her from “unlawful detention without further delay.”

The two NGOs said: “The continuing restriction and violation of Mrs Chime’s rights also constitutes violence against women, especially given the physical and psychological suffering she is currently facing.”

The petition sent through the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Mrs Navi Pillay, stated that they are not aware of Mrs Chime committing any criminal offence which led to the deprivation of her liberty.

The petition signed by Adetokunbo Mumuni and Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi for SERAP and WARDC, respectively, said: “The rights to liberty and to health are necessary for a life in dignity.

“This right is clearly recognised under the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the UN International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural

Rights both of which Nigeria has ratified.”

They added, “this deprivation and compulsory confinement is not in conformity with international human rights standards, and

cannot be justified under any circumstances whatsoever.

“By restricting the movement of Mrs Chime and limiting her right to liberty, we strongly believe that her internationally recognised right to the

enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health, including the right to medical care in functioning public health and healthcare facilities, is seriously being violated.”

Maiduguri residents welcome state of emergency extension M

A I D U G U R I — RESIDENTS of Maiduguri, the Borno capital, have commended the Federal Government for extending the emergency rule in states affected by Boko Haram insurgency.

A cross section of the inhabitants told newsmen in Maiduguri yesterday, that the extension was a welcome development.

Mallam Ibrahim Jidda, a trader at the Gamboru Market, Maiduguri, said the emergency rule had restored peace in the state.

He said: “The emergency rule has actually restored peace in the state, especially in Maiduguri, because it had encouraged the soldiers to flush out Boko Haram militants from the state.

“The additional powers granted to the military have also helped in many areas; several Boko Haram bases in Bulabulin Ngarnam, Jajeri, Kawar-Maila and other areas, had been dislodged.”

He also said that the shutdown of GSM communi-cation services under the emergency rule had also assisted in disorganising the insurgents.

Jidda said: “The absence of GSM communication network has been helpful in curtailing

Boko Haram attacks. I think the idea of continual blockade of the network is a welcome development.

“Since the shut-down in communication, no successful attack was carried out by the insurgents in the city, except few cases in villages and remote communities.”

He said the extension of the emergency rule would provide enough time for the military to flush out suspected militants hiding in the bush.

Mrs Laraba Bello, a civil servant, who lost her husband and three children to Boko Haram attacks last year, concurred with Jidda.

She said: “Everybody knows we are now enjoying relative peace in Borno, due to the emergency rule.

“So, I support the extension and the continued blockade of GSM services in the state.

“Once the GSM network services are back, the Boko Haram insurgents are likely to resume their operation to destroy the people and the state in general.”

However, Mrs Mary Gazama, a businesswoman, appealed to the Federal Government to restore telecommunication services, even as the fight against the insurgents continued.

She said: “The continued blocking of GSM network has been helpful, but it has deprived many of their means of livelihood.

“The authorities should devise a new method of combating Boko Haram insurgents without blocking the phone network.”

She also appealed to the Federal Government to equip the soldiers with sophisticated weapons to enable them tackle the insurgents.

Akhigbe's burial for Nov 23

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HE burial of the former Chief of General Staff, Vice Admiral Mike Akhigbe, has been fixed for Saturday, November 23, in Fugar, Etsako Central Local Government Area of Edo State.

Head of the family and elder brother to the deceased, Chief Joseph Akhigbe-Alemoh, said in Fugar, yesterday, that the late admiral's remains is expected to arrive Fugar on Friday, November 22.

He said that a Christian wake keep will hold that same day, while the funeral mass at the St. Theresa Catholic Church would be held the next day.

Akhigbe died in New York on October 28, aged 67.

Dangote to invest in Ekiti agric, education sectors

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HE investment drive of the Governor Kayode Fayemiled administration in Ekiti State got a major boost, weekend, as foremost industrialist, Alhaji Aliko Dangote promised to extend his business interest to the state.

Alhaji Dangote, President and Chief Executive of Dangote Group of Companies, listed solid mineral development, agriculture and education as possible areas of investment in Ekiti State.

He dropped the hint after he met with Deputy Governor, Professor Modupe Adelabu at his Falomo, Ikoyi, Lagos Office, Friday.

According to a statement by P r o f e s s o r Adelabu’s media aide, Mr. Bunmi Ogunmodede, both parties described their discussions as very fruitful after the meeting, which held behind closed door.

Speaking on what transpired at the meeting, Dangote said: “I have had a very good discussion with the deputy governor and we

are looking at the areas of solid minerals. We are also looking at the area of rice production, which is agriculture.

“We will engage more of the local population in farming activities and this will create employment opportunities for the people.

“So, we will look into this and the possibility of collaborating with the state through the Ministry of Agriculture.

“I am also looking in the area of education. I have had a very fruitful discussion with the professor and we will take it up from there.”

He rated the Fayemi administration very high in performance.

According to him, the Ekiti State helmsman deserves all the necessary support to push through his vision for the people of Ekiti State.

He said: “Ekiti people and Nigerians should allow him to continue with the great job that he has been doing.

“He (Fayemi) has not disappointed anyone of us, who are his friends because we believed he went into politics on a mission and he’s doing very well.

“My advice to Ekiti people is that they should give their governor and his deputy all the support they require to succeed. They are a great team and I wish them the very best.”

8—Vanguard, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2013

G-7 govs, Baraje ask Oyinlola to resume as PDP scribe

BY HENRY UMORU

A

B U J A — FOLLOWING last Wednesday's judgment by an Appeal Court sitting in Abuja, which re-instated former governor of Osun State, Prince Olagunsoye Onyinola, as National Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, the G-7 governors and the Abubakar Kawu Baraje-led splinter group of the PDP, yesterday, asked Onyinola to resume duties today at party secretariat.

Rising from its National Working Committee, NWC, meeting yesterday, the group noted that Oyinlola must not wait for any directive from any quarters for him to resume as National Secretary of Bamanga Tukur-led PDP. It, however, said that any other person who parades himself as the National Secretary of PDP should be committed to prison for contempt of court.

Meanwhile, the group has resolved to dump PDP for the All Progressive Congress, APC, if peace moves with President Goodluck Jonathan fail.

According to the group, “NWC commended the nPDP leadership, including both the caucus and NWC members, for turning the party into the beautiful bride of Nigerian politics in view of the fact that we hold the key to decide the next President of Nigeria come 2015.

“The NWC considered other options in case our talks with President Jonathan fail to produce the desired result and concluded that our door should be opened to the APC option, while not ruling out other options that would give us the leverage in reshaping the polity come 2015.”

It said that having considered what it described as the expert opinion of its Legal Adviser, Mr. Eric Opia, Oyinlola does not need any other oath of office to return to work as PDP National Secretary.

ROAD SAFETY: Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company at the National Road Safety Walk in Lagos.

STRIKE: ASUU branches meet today, exco on Wednesday

BY JOHNBOSCO AGBAKWURU

A

BUJA— ALL branches of Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, will hold their congresses today to brief members on President Goodluck Jonathan’s offer.

Nigeria public universities have been closed down over four months as a result of the Federal Government’s inability to implement the agreement it entered into in 2010 with lecturers.

There have been a lot of calls from well-meaning Nigerians to the Federal Government and ASUU to come to a compromise so that students resume academic activities.

Both warring factions had maintained hard stand on the issue as ASUU argued that poor funding was responsible for the dwindling fortunes of education and its attendant poor quality of graduates, while the Federal Government said the university lecturers downed tools over enhanced earned allowance.

However, the long closure of universities led the leadership of the Senate and President Jonathan to hold separate meetings with the union and relevant stakeholders last Monday, where new offers were made to the teachers with a plea for them to re-open universities.

A branch Chairman of ASUU, who told Vanguard of today’s congresses in all the universities, said the meeting was for the chairmen to brief members on the outcome of their meeting with President Jonathan.

He further said that the outcome of today’s meeting of

the various branches would be communicated to the national leadership of the union, which will in turn convene an emergency NEC meeting between Wednesday and Thursday this week to consider the positions of various branches .

The Chairman, who did not want his name to be mentioned, said: “Branches throughout the

country will be holding their congresses on Monday (today) to brief our members on the outcome of the meeting with the President.

“It is at the meeting that the various branches will take position and communicate same to the national leadership Monday evening, then an emergency NEC meeting would be convened

between Wednesday and Thursday.

“We have not been told of the venue, but we were told to prepare because it would take two days by road from my branch.”

He said calling for a strike or calling it off was not a decision taken by the ASUU President (Dr. Nasir Fagge) or the national executive alone.

The Church kept Nigeria together—Jonathan

BY SAM EYOBOKA

W

ARRI— PRESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan declared yesterday, in Warri, that but for the Church the country would have disintegrated, just as he assured Nigerians that by the end of April next year there would be relative steady power supply.

Speaking at the flag off of this year’s Word of Life Bible Church’s Jubilee Word Festival at the International Gospel Centre, Warri, the President, paid glowing tributes to Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor who marked his birthday yesterday, describing him as a “very very strong president of the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN.” President Jonathan was accompanied by the governors of Plateau, Delta and Cross River states; Minister of Information and several PDP leaders, including the newly sworn in senator representing Delta Central District and the executive secretary of Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board.

Speaking on The Role of

Citizens in Nation Building, the president said nation building is a collective responsibility, and challenged Nigerians to join hands with his administration for the onerous task of building the nation.

He said: “Whenever I have the opportunity to address a religious gathering like this, I

always like to repeat myself that but for the Church, this country would probably have gone into oblivion.

“You have been praying persistently day and night and that is why some of our challenges are still at this level.

Nigerians are totally committed, not pretenders.”

Nigeria to adopt S'Africa's road tolling system

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BUJA— AS part of the efforts to ensure the successful implementation of road management policy in Nigeria, the Federal Government is set to adapt the South African model of tolled road management.

Mr. Abdulrasaq Oyinloye, Managing Director of the Infrastructure Bank, stated this in Abuja at the opening ceremony of a training programme on tolled roads and road management.

Oyinloye said the bank is collaborating with the Development Bank of South Africa, DBSA, to organise a

two-day training for stakeholders in the road sector.

According to him, South Africa has been in the road management for the past 20 years and it is good Nigeria learn from them to reinvent the wheel.

Oyinloye said the training, entitled Tolled Roads and Road Management: A Sustainable Approach, was aimed at bringing the stakeholders in the sector on the same page.

He said this would enable them have a clear and common understanding.

Vanguard, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2013—9

Lagos cancels transformer distribution in urban areas ... sets agenda for megacity status blue-print

BY OLASUNKANMI AKONI & MONSUR OLOWOOPEJO

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AGOS — LAGOS State government has ruled out distribution of transformers and carrying out fresh electrification projects in the semi-urban and urban areas.

This was revealed by the Commissioner for Rural Development, Mr. Cornelius Ojelabi, who spoke to Vanguard in Ikeja on the highlights of the state’s 2013 Community Week

Celebration.

Ojelabi, who noted that there’s high demand for transformers with an average of seven transformer requests daily from residents said: “With the privatisation of the Power Holding Company of Nigeria, PHCN, we will still continue with the distribution of transformers to residents of the state, but this time, we will be focusing the rural areas.

“The rural areas are those places that we know the new

investors can’t get to in the next five years while the semi-urban and urban areas will be left for the new investors to manage.

“As we receive requests for transformers from residents of urban and semi-urban areas, we will aggregate it and send it to the investors for distribution. All our projects will focuse more on rural areas, especially in terms of providing electricity.”

On why the state was still embarking on electrification projects, Ojelabi, stressed that

DINNER: From left, Arthur Mbanefo, ex partner, Akintola Williams Deloitte;Femi Abegunde, Chairman, Deloitte Board; Ogbueshi Isichei, ex partner, Akintola Williams Deloitte, and Tawanda Gumbo, transitional leader, Deloitte, during the 2013 Deloitte alumni dinner, at Metropolitan Club, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Local kidney transplants begin soon — Lawmaker L

AGOS — A Lagos Assemblyman, Mr. Suru Avoseh, has said the state government will soon commence comprehensive kidney treatment in one of the state hospitals.

Avoseh, who is the

Chairman, House Committee on Health Services, said this, yesterday, in Lagos.

The lawmaker said such facility would allow the citizens to have quick access to kidney treatment and transplant.

“Lagos State is up to the task; if you go to Gbagada General Hospital, you will see the just commissioned Trauma and Burns Centre; I believe it is the first of its kind in the whole federation.

“You will also see the

Fashola lauded over dualisation of Mushin-Isolo Rd

BY VICTOR AHIUMAYOUNG

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HAIRMAN OF Mushin Local Government Area of Lagos, Olatunde Adepitan has commended the State Governor, Babatunde Fashola, for the ongoing dualisation of MushinIsolo Road, saying, “the ways to increase commercial activities in any society is to make the road network perfect.’’

A statement by Mr. Segun Akinyemi, Information Officer for Local Government quoted

the chairman at a stakeholders’ meeting as saying, “Once again, the governor has come to the rescue of the people of Mushin Local Government on the road linking Isolo with Mushin from the Oshodi-Apapa express road to Mushin market on the Agege Motor Road.”

On his part, Special Adviser to the Governor on Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Ganiyu Johnson said that Governor Fashola considered the strategic location of the road and the tremendous impact on road users from Mushin to Isolo.

He appealed to the residents

to cooperate fully with the contractor in order to enable the job to be completed on schedule.

the state government could not just hands-off from issues concerning electricity in the state hurriedly, otherwise residents will continue to have challenges with accessing electricity.

“As part of our activities, we will be driving the new investors to the rural areas because we know the state better.

“While those in the distribution, should focus on providing the pre-paid metres, with this, residents will only pay for the power supply they have used, “ he said.

Meantime, as part of its efforts to make the city of Lagos livable, the state government will hold a conference to examine the implications of attaining a megacity status as well as focus on health and social issues that characterisea megacity.

The conference tagged, ‘The Livable City; Preparing for the Mental and Social Health Needs of the Lagos Mega City,’ is expected to draw participants from members of the state’s Executive Council and other policy makers, lawmakers, city planners, journalists, public opinion leaders, leaders of private industry, leaders in the health, education, environment and social welfare sectors, religious and traditional leaders, as well as members of the general public.

Commissioner for Health, Dr. Jide Idris, who disclosed this, weekend, on the objective of the conference, said it was scheduled to start Thursday.

Fashola, Tinubu, Fayemi for PANAFEST colloquium 2013

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ONE-DAY National Colloquium with the theme, ‘Nigerian Centenary: How Far, How Well: Challenges of Nation Building,’ will be held Thursday, December 5 2013, at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, NIIA, Kofo Abayomi Street, Victoria Island Lagos.

The Keynote Speaker for this year’s event, organised

by PANAFEST Committee, under the auspices of the African Union and the Government of Ghana, will be Governor Babatunde Fashola of Lagos.

The maiden edition of the lecture was delivered by Professor Wole Soyinka in 2010, while the last Keynote Speaker in 2012 was Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, Governor of Osun State.

This year ’s event is specially designed to usher in Nigeria into a new season of celebration, evaluate and to give a robust review of prevalent happenings in the socio-economic and political space of the nation, looking at it from the past to the present and future.

Activists plan heroic burial for Omojola Cardiac and Renal Centre, which is about to be commissioned and by the time it is handed over it will be one of the best,” he said.

Avoseh said the citizens would enjoy the resources here in Nigeria instead of travelling to India, Britain, or the U.S. for kidney problems or transplant.

He said the facilities would be available to everyone to have contact with the medical doctors who would be giving professional advice to the kidney patients.

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HE REMAINS of the renowned economist and activist, Adewole Omojola Ajibola, will be buried in Lagos, Friday, November 15, 2013.

“It will be a heroic event,” says Abiodun Aremu, arrow-head of the organisers.

Omojola, died on Saturday, October 19, 2013 in Akure, Ondo State, aged 75.

The one-week event to be graced by socialists and other activists is slated to commence today and will be rounded off, Saturday, November 16 with an outing service at Indigene Faith of Africa (Ijo Orunmila Ato) at 90, Freeman Street, Ebute Metta, Lagos.

The burial event is expected to kick off with a press conference today, at Baba Omojola’s residence, 13 Onitana Street, Surulere, Lagos at 11a.m.

10—Vanguard, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2013

Nollywood actor empowers 25 Ogun widows

BY DAUD OLATUNJI

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CELEBRATION: From left, Oloye of Oye-Ekiti, Oba Oluwole Ademolaju; Governor Kayode Fayemi, and National President, Oye Progressive Union, Ogbeni Lanre Adesuyi, during the Ajodun Omo Oye 2013 Celebration, in Oye-Ekiti, weekend.

Mimiko'll lead onslaught against APC in S-West — LP

BY DAUD OLATUNJI

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BEOKUTA — THE Labour Party, LP, has said governor of Ondo State, Olusegun Mimiko will lead the onslaught against the All progressives Congress, APC, in the South-West during the 2015 elections.

The party's secretary in Ogun State, Sunday Ogini, said in Abeokuta, that Govermor Mimiko held a brief strategic meeting with the leadership of the LP led by the state Chairman Olabode Simpson, weekend, and reinstated his commitment to take over the South West from the ruling APC. The party in its bid to dislodge the ruling APC has wooed the immediate past governor of

Ogun State, Otunba Gbenga Daniel and other prominent personalities to the party.

According to Ogini, Governor Mimiko did not take the issue of taking over the South West lightly through election in 2014 and

2015.

He however, urged the governor not to relent in his efforts to provide dividends of democracy to the people of Ondo State, describing it as a goodwill for the success of the party in the

state.

Present at LP meeting were the Deputy National Chairman of the party, Mr. Joseph Akinlaja, the state Financial Secretary, Abayomi Arab, among others.

••• as David Mark commends him

BY DAYO JOHNSON

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KURE — SENATE President, David Mark has said that the successor of the Ondo State Governor, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko must build on his enviable achievement and his solid foundation.

He spoke in Ondo during a public lecture and book launch, entitled, ‘An Evolution of Ondo Kingdom over 500 years,’ to

celebrate the 60th birthday and 7th coronation anniversary of the Osemawe of Ondo, Oba Victor Adesimbo Kiladejo.

David Mark commended the governor on the landmark achievements recorded in the health sector.

He, however, chided the Senator representing the Ondo North in the National Assembly, Ajayi Boroffice for not attending the ceremony.

Senate President said he was expected to see the three senators that are representing Ondo State when he arrived.

Meanwhile, on Mimiko achievement, the Senate President said: “I was at the hospital built by the Governor today and one thing that I observed is that the common smell that is characteristic of hospital is not there. When I was walking round the hospital there was no odour."

NMA threatens Amosun over alleged unkept promises zWe are doing our best — Govt

BY DAUD OLATUNJI

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BEOKUTA — THE Nigeria Medical Association, NMA, in

Ogun State has threatened a showdown with the Senator Ibikunle Amosun-led administration over alleged failure to

provide free health care services he promised while being sworn in as executive governor of the state.

The body which described

US consul lauds Aregbesola on education reforms

BY GBENGA OLARINOYE

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SOGBO — THE CONSUL General of the United States of America in Nigeria, Mr. Jefferey Hawkins has commended the education reform programme of Governor Rauf Aregbesola led administration in Osun State.

Hawkins, who was on a visits to the state with some American consulate officials, said the government had demonstrated that education was very important to government and its people with

the overhauling of the sector to conform with the best practice in the world.

The American envoy rnoted that more than 7,000 Nigerian students now study in various American universities as foreign students, a figure he said was higher than that of any country on the African continent.

Hawkins, said visa officials at the consulate were included on his entourage so they could study and understand the people they were dealing with and familiarised themselves with the

people's backgrounds, beliefs and cultures.

In his response, the governor thanked the team for their commendation and promised that his administration wouldnot relent in doing that which was good for its citizens.

The governor noted that there is so much to be learnt from America by Osun State and the country at large, saying that American democracy and federalism remains the greatest latitude in the definition of good governance.

the action of the government as political deceit, also berated Amosun government for allegedly owing its members 30 months salaries arrears and his alleged refusal to equip some of the hospitals in the state.

The state chairman of the association, Edward Jagun, who stated this at a briefing , weekend, threatened to cripple all health institutions by withdrawing members from both state and Federal Government -owned hospitals in the state by November 14, 2013.

But, in a swift reaction, the state government has said that it was doing its best to put the sector in order.

BEOKUTA — NO fewer than 25 widows have been empowered with working tools by a popular Yoruba movie actor, Otunba Bolaji Amusan also known as Mr. Latin.

The actor who floated Latin Foundation set up to cater for the need of less privileged, assured that on completion of the project, all necessary facilities would be provided for the needy.

Ibadan monarch honours 8

BY OLA AJAYI

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BADAN — Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Samuel Odulana, weekend, conferred different chieftaincy titles on eight illustrious indigenes of Ibadan.

The ceremony took place at the Monatan Palace of the Olubadan in the presence of some members of Olubadanin-Council.

Among those decorated were the immediate past Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Lowo Obisesan from Aworonsoso family and the Chairman, Oyo State Universal Basic Education Authority, Dr. Busari Adebisi.

Osun reiterates support to farmers

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SOGBO — THE Osun State Government said it would do everything possible to support farmers to ensure abundant food production in the state.

The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Quick Impact Intervention Programme, QIIP, Mr. Dele Ogundipe, made the disclosure in Osogbo, weekend.

He said the government would continue to support the Piggery Farmers Association for abundant meat production and urged pig farmers to support the state government's vision toward improved food production to reap more gains.

Vanguard, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2013—11

‘Stop attacks on Kokori community’

BY FESTUS AHON

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GHELLI— URHOBO Peace Initiative, UPI, weekend, appealed to the Joint Military Task Force, JTF, to stop further attacks on Kokori community in Delta State, insisting that the

invasion of the community was causing economic hardship to the people.

Urging members of the Liberation Movement for Urhobo People, LMUP, to also sheathe their swords in the interest of the socio-economic well-being of residents of the

community, Chair man of UPI, Chief Igho Osiebe, called on the state and Federal governments to prevail on the JTF to stop further invasion of Kokori community.

Appealing to the JTF and members of LMUP to

COMMISSIONING: From left— Governor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State; Crown Prince, HRH Eheneden Erediauwa, Edaiken N'Uselu; a palace chief; Prince Clem Agba, Commissioner for Environment and others, at the commissioning of the Five-Junction Project comprising a roundabout, underground storm water drainage system and street lights in Benin.

Mass sack imminent in Chevron

BY EMMA ARUBI

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ARRI— THE job of no fewer than 350 Nigerian workers of Chevron Nigeria Limited is on the line, as the company commences its downsizing exercise.

Meanwhile, its over 500 expatriates, it was alleged, would not be affected by the exercise.

According to reliable sources, the job severance measure, entitled Voluntary Separation Package, VSP, started this month, is billed to terminate December 12.

Vanguard learnt that the exercise is causing friction between the management and its workers, while union officials insist that management was executing an agreement that had not been signed.

Sources said that Chevron management accepted that production was going on smoothly, but that their expenses was eating up their gains, hence the need to downsize to remain in business.

embrace peace, Osiebe enjoined government to create room for dialogue, expressing hope that the crisis would be resolved at a roundtable.

According to him, the prices of food items have gone up beyond the reach of the ordinary folks in Kokori since the crisis started, adding that only the rich could afford three square meals now in Kokori.

He said: “The old and the young have been subjected to serious hardship for a cause they know nothing about.

“The other sub-clans in Agbon Kingdom, who are Kokori brothers and the leadership of Urhobo Progress Union should explore means of finding a lasting solution to the lingering crisis instead of sitting on the fence to watch what will become of Kokori community.”

Osiobe called on all Kokori sons and daughters at home and in the Diaspora to intervene in the crisis with a view to finding a lasting solution to same, adding “no community is developed in an atmosphere of rancour and acrimony.”

Workers give Delta govt 14-day ultimatum

BY AUSTIN OGWUDA

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SABA— PUBLIC servants in Delta State have issued a 14-day ultimatum to the state government, threatening to proceed on strike over what they described as “excessive taxation on workers’ salaries,” among other grievances.

The ultimatum was contained in a letter by the state council of the National Public Service

Negotiating Council to the state governor, endorsed by the state Secretary of the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria, Mr. Lucky Edewor and leaders of seven other affiliate unions.

It said: “The state Joint Negotiating Council, JNC, hereby issues 14 days ultimatum to the state government to address the matter referred to in the communiqué dated September 19, 2013 as well as

the obnoxious issue of excessive taxation of workers’ salaries, partial implementation of the minimum wage and stoppage of National Housing Fund in Delta State.

“Failure by the state government to address the above itemised issues within 14 days, all workers in public service of the state will commence an indefinite industrial action (strike) from November 19.”

Amaechi, a pretender— Obuah

BY EGUFE YAFUGBORHI

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ORT HARCOURT— THE Felix Obuah-led Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Rivers State has described Governor Rotimi Amaechi’s professed submissiveness to President Goodluck Jonathan as “deceptive” and “pretentious.”

The governor had, last Thursday, said he was submissive to the President as his senior but stressed that such disposition would not becloud his sense of asking for social justice.

In a statement by Mr. Jerry Needam, media aide to Mr. Obuah, the party said that Amaechi was merely playing to the gallery as the series of

“rebellious activities engaged in by him do not reflect such position.”

They're jokers — Amaechi

Meanwhile, Governor Amaechi, through his Chief Press Secretary, David Iyofor, described the Obuah-led PDP as a bunch of jokers.

He said: “Those people are just a bunch of jokers. It is Obuah’s faction of PDP that is deceptive. When did divergent views on issues of principle become disrespectful?”

Needam, in his statement, alleged that Amaechi had proved beyond reasonable doubt that he was opposed to the programmes and policies

of the president since the inception of the Jonathan’s administration.

Crude oil leakage discovered in Bayelsa community

BY SAMUEL OYADONGHA

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ENAGOA— AN underwater leakage of crude oil from a pipeline belonging to Eni/ Agip facility, was, weekend, discovered near Atonye Kiri fishing settlement in Nembe Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.

The leakage, which has already spread to the main Nembe-Brass River, has stopped fishermen from working.

It was learnt that the leakage was noticed Friday night by fishermen from the Atonye Kiri settlement, while on a fishing expedition.

They were said to have alerted the Surveillance Team of Agip Oil Company, led by one Samuel David, who reportedly contacted the Chairman of Oil and Gas Committee of the Nembe Kingdom, Chief Nengi James.

Speaking on the development, Chief James said that the committee had contacted Agip in Brass.

He said: “As the chairman of oil and gas committee, I have called the attention of Eni/ NAOC personnel in Brass to urgently tackle the issue.

“More so, aquatic life and the mangroves, including the waterway, have been polluted.

“It is worrisome that Agip has been unconcerned about issues of environmental degradation and spillages. They have not been cooperating with the affected communities.”

12 — Vanguard, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2013

Vanguard, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2013 — 13

GOV CHIME VS WIFE: We were not bribed to release interim report —NHRC

BY IKECHUKWU NNOCHIRI

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BUJA—RATTLED by alle gation that it was bribed to release an interim report on the petition that was sent to it by wife of the Governor of Enugu State, Mrs. Clara Chime, the National Human Rights Commission, NHRC, yesterday, said it has never claimed to have established that Mrs Chime has health challenges.

In a statement it issued in Abuja yesterday, the commission, maintained that it has no form of medical competence to establish the health status of Mrs. Chime or any other person, saying it is still investigating complaint that Governor Sullivan Chime, subjected his wife to a house arrest.

The statement which was signed by the Director of Public Affairs and Communications at the commission read: “The attention of the NHRC has been drawn to media reports which suggested that the Commission had established that the First Lady of Enugu State, Mrs. Clara Chime suffers from health challenges.

“This implies that the commission is biased and has already taken a decision on her complaint which is far from the truth.

“The National Human Rights Commission is yet to reach a determination on the Petition received from Mrs. Clara Chime.

Kanu drums support for confab

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BY CHARLES KUMOLU

AGOS—FORMER Lagos State governor Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu(rtd) has called on Nigerians to ignore claims that the proposed National conference is being convened by President Goodluck Jonathan for political gains, saying that this is the right time to deliberate on the future of the country.

He also urged critiques of the confab to support the move, arguing that the various agitations across the country showed that there is need for a national conference.

Kanu said this in Lagos when the members of South-East/SouthSouth Professionals of Nigeria, paid him a courtesy visit.

His words: ’’When you look at the various agitations in this country, you will know that for that reason we have to go and talk. The conference is needed in the interest of the country. So people should stop criticising it. We should forget about ulterior motive. This is the right time for the nation to talk.’’

Also speaking the President of the group, Mr. Emeka Ugwu-Oju said: ‘’The President should be commended for initiating the national conference. It is a good idea.

We expect positive outcome from the dialogue.”

“The complaint is currently being investigated and will be subjected to the commission’s Rules of Procedure.

“The Commission is a credible National Institution that will never be biased or compromised in case management or any matter before it.

“It became necessary for the commission to address the press on Friday, November 8, 2013, in respect of the complaint received from Mrs. Chime, because it had

attracted considerable media attention and generated a lot of public interest.

“The purpose of the briefing was to inform Nigerians that the commission’s team of investigators visited Enugu and held a meeting with the complainant and her husband and is taking further investigative steps in respect of the matter.

“The Commission wishes to place it on record that it has never claimed to have established that Mrs. Chime has health challenges.

“It was clearly stated during the meeting with the press that the issue of Mrs. Chime’s health status came up in the course of investigation and it was mutually agreed that the Commission constitutes an independent medical team to evaluate the true state of her health.

“The NHRC has no any form of medical competence to establish the health status of Mrs. Chime or any other person. The investigation is still on-going.

“In response to one of the questions asked at the press

Why I ‘ll build an airport in Abia —ORJI

BY IKENNAASOMBA MUAHIA—GOVERNOR Theodore Orji of Abia State, yesterday, reiterated his administration’s commitment to build an airport in the state, saying that it will help attract more investment and opportunities that will in the long run aid the growth of existing facilities in the state and the entire South East region.

In a statement by his Special Adviser on Public Communication, Mr. Ben Onyechere, Orji said that the location of Abia as the commercial nerve centre of the South East has made it imperative that an air-

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port should be sited in the state.

He said: “It has become imperative that an airport should be sited in Abia State, considering its location as the commercial and industrial nerve center of the South East. I’m convinced beyond doubt that business and tourism potentials of the state will be enhanced greatly, as much as it will attract more opportunities to grow existing facilities in the state.

“There is equally no doubt that there will be an influx of employment that will immensely generate developmental initiatives, if this onerous project is realized.”

LG poll: APC wants Enugu SIEC boss arrested for disobeying court order

BY TONY EDIKE NUGU—THE Enugu State chapter of All Progressive Congress, APC, has called for the arrest and prosecution of Chairman of the Enugu State Independent Electoral Commission, ENSIEC, Dr. Boniface Eneh, for allegedly disobeying the order of an Enugu High Court restraining him from conducting the November 2, 2013 council polls in the state.

Justice Anthony Onovo, of the State High Court had on October 31, 2013, gave an order stopping ENSIEC from conducting the council election in two local government areas, following an application brought by All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, in the state seeking an order for judicial review in line with order of mandamus injunction which centered on why ENSIEC should not conduct the said election.

But ENSIEC on November 2, 2013, went ahead with the polls without recourse to the order of the court even when the order was duly served on the commission before the election date.

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Anambra 2013: Nwoye’s candidature gets support

BY DOTUN IBIWOYE

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WKA—PEOPLES Democratic Party’s, PDP, candidate for the November 16, Anambra governorship elections, Tony Nwoye has been described as the solution to various problems confronting Anambra State, if elected as the governor.

The Coordinator of the Tony Nwoye Strategy Group, Mr. Emeka Odikpo, in chat with Vanguard noted that a central theme in the campaign was the interaction with Anambra people, stressing the need for jobs to be created for the teaming unemployed and under employed youths.

He further said: “However, the state is faced with numerous contending challenges but in spite of that, I am resolute in my determination to build an airport which will complement all other efforts we have made to bring the state at par with its contemporaries.

“An average Abia man is commerce-oriented, most of whose businesses are scattered all over the world, and as such the need for this project has become overwhelming as much as it has become necessary to avail returning Abians to a one-stop trip.”

briefing, the Executive Secretary, Professor Bem Angwe clearly stated that ‘when we interacted with Her Excellency, Mrs. Chime ,she spoke to us fluently and coherently.

“She answered all the questions we raised in her presence as a person who is aware of the circumstances of her environment and the consequence of her action.”

Meanwhile, it will be recalled that few hours after the Commission briefed journalists with regards to the outcome of its preliminary investigation into the petition, Governor Chime’s wife, while denouncing the interim report, alleged that members of the Commission that visited the Enugu State Government House were bribed to acknowledge that she has mental challenges.

The NHRC boss, Angwe, had specifically informed journalists that Clara herself, admitted that she has mental issues that often causes her depression and hallucinations.

Angwe stressed that during the interactions, both the Governor and his wife “had the confidence to tell us things they wouldhavefeltuncomfortabletodivulge,” notingthatthemeetingswereheldincamera.

“She told us that she has a medical condition that results to hallucinations. And that she sometimes doesn’t understand certain things that happen to her.”

14 — Vanguard, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2013

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Vanguard, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2013 — 15

From left: Elder statesman, Chief Edwin Clark, his wife, Dr. Bisola Clark, Mr. Alex Oti, MD\CEO, Diamond Bank Plc., and Otunba Niyi Adebayo, From left: HRM Oba Sikiru Adetona, Awujale of Ijebuland, Senator Anyim former Ekiti State governor, at the Holy Matrimony between former Miss Pius Anyim, Secretaary to the Government of the Federation, representing PresiOladepe Funmi Adeshina and Mr. Eyituoyo Amuka, at Yaba Baptist Church, dent Goodluck Jonathan and Mrs. Pat Ararowe, during the church service.

Commercial Avenue/Raymond Street, Yaba, Lagos. Pix: Joe Akintola, Photo Editor, Kehinde Gbadamosi, Lamidi Bamidele and Bunmi Azeez.

From left: Chief Brown Mene, Chief Kofi Edonnmi Kartey and Chief E. Esisi, who represented the Olu of Warri, Atuwatse II.

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From left: Hon. Aminu Tambuwal, Speaker, House of Representatives, Chief (Mrs.) Derin Osoba and Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa.

From left: Chief Olu Falomo, Mr. Goodie Ibru, Mrs. Akpoyibo and Mr. Marvel Akpoyibo, Deputy Inspector-General of Police, DIG, (rtd), former Commissioner of Police, Lagos State.

Cross section of Royal fathers, representing the Chief Ajibola Ogunsola, former Chairman, Punch Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade.

Newspapers, Lady Maiden Ibru, Publisher, Guardian Newspapers and Chief Lekan Aare.

From left: Senator Ike Nwachukwu, Chief Razaq Okoya, his wife, Shade and Prince Segun Adesegun, deputy governor of Ogun State.

Chief O. Onya, Mr. Frank Aigbogun, Publisher, BusinessDay and Mr. Ademola Osinubi.

Professor Pat Utomi and his wife, at the event.

16 — Vanguard, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2013

RIDAY, November 1, 2013 will go F down in the history of electric power development in Nigeria as the day when

the private sector effectively took over the functions of providing electricity to Nigerians. It was a culmination of a process that took all of eight years after it was conclusively ascertained that government machinery can never succeed in providing Nigerians with reliable power supply.

Apart from the inefficiency and corruption for which the defunct National Electric Power Authority (NEPA) and the now equally defunct Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) were renowned, state control of electricity, despite the mobilisation of over 2.5 trillion Naira ($16 billion) in building new power plants, could not advance the quantum of power production beyond the peak of 4,750 megawatts.

The process of privatisation was painstaking, with a seemingly transparent and credible bidding process for the six unbundled PHCN companies consisting of six generating companies (GENCOS) and

Electricity in private hands eleven distribution companies (DISCOS) sold to new private owners for about 400 billion Naira ($2.5 billion). It also involved the resolution of very difficult Labour issues, in which 47,000 workers of the defunct PHCN had to be paid off with about 384 billion Naira ($2.4b).

With power now effectively in the hands of the private sector, the hope of Nigerians is that the future of more efficient power supply in Nigeria is now considerably brighter, as the new investors are expected to bring in about N400 billion in the short run, with the long term prospects almost limitless if things go the way our experience in the telecom sector has shown.

Nigerians are now looking forward to a

new era of healthy competition and service delivery which puts the customer first.

With private supply of electricity, efficiency is expected to improve, and the virgin sectors of the economy that remain locked in will be opened up to create job opportunities and put Nigeria on the path to sustainable development.

This new era will come with its share of birth pangs. Consumers will have to be reoriented to a new habit of paying economic costs for power supply and maintaining the discipline required to make the new system work for everybody. The Nigerian Electricity Regulation Council (NERC) must stand up and ensure that both the service providers and the public are protected to bring the new approach to power supply in Nigeria to fruition.

It calls for responsible conduct by the new owners, the consuming public, the Labour unions and the governments at various levels.

We hope that very soon, all the benefits of private enterprise will trigger a major rush of investment that will put the days of darkness in Nigeria behind us for good.

OPINION

BY OBI NWAKANMA

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HE columnist’s obligation is oftentimes to lay to rest ghosts of miscreant sentiments often imported to distort public issues by people who also sometimes hyperventilate on non-issues. I see myself in that role of the columnist in the discharge of this duty to the public in calling the bluff of Jasper Ayodeji, or some fellow by that name, who has described himself as a lawyer for Mr. Femi Fani-Kayode on whose behalf he wrote disparagingly about my person and my column in the Sunday Vanguardtitled, “The Scandal in Aviation.”

To be on record, I am neither a consultant to the Minister of Aviation, nor have I defended her beyond the basic facts of the issues arising out of the current brouhaha in Aviation. I would defend my “Igbo sister ” if there are grounds to defend her, but not simply because she’s my “Igbo sister ” but because she has rights, and she should not suffer the laceration of powerful men who see mostly below her waist and are incapable of reading her mind. I have very little regard for spoilt brats whose messiah complex drives them to the elation of self-regard and calumny.

Mr. Fani-Kayode, Jasper Ayodeji’s client, is an interesting study: this conservative, right-wing, Cambridgeeducated lawyer who thinks in profoundly medieval terms often needs to be called out of his closets. I therefore like to make the following observations regarding the piece to which he sends a half-baked minion to respond: my original essay, “Scandal in Aviation” was not about Mr. Fani-Kayode. But it is clear he likes the very opportunity to come to the public eye by inserting himself more forcefully, beyond my rather marginal reference to him in that essay. Any reference to Fani-Kayode is purely incidental and goes merely to adumbrate a particularly clear situation, to wit: That Ms. Stella

The scandal in Aviation: Fani-Kayode and matters arising Adaeze Oduah has fought battles with powerful forces, including a former minister for aviation, in the person of Mr. Fani-Kayode. This former minister for aviation threw very vicious barbs at the current minister, and as Mr. Jasper Ayodeji clearly confirms called Oduah, a Minister of the government of the Federal Republic a “Fish wife” among other calumnies.

This utter disrespect for the minister and serially for other people, particularly women outside of Mr. Fani-Kayode’s ethnic affiliation, is clearly what I

meant by my reference to the “ethnic other.” It is public knowledge. Indeed, nothing I said of Mr. Fani-Kayode in the brief reference to him in that article is my personal opinion: it is reportage: they are derived from publicly stated comments to which Mr Fani-Kayode has never offered a refutation. I presume Mr. Fani-Kayode did “smoke” at some point or the other in his life.

But it is quite gratifying that his lawyer has publicly acknowledged in his attempts at a rebuttal that the only thing Mr. Fani-Kayode does get high on these days is the “holy spirit.” It is of such truths that one would, like the Americans just simply say: “Holy smokes!” But I should rather say, whatever gets Mr. FaniKayode high is his business; I have no truck in that matter: I was simply reporting his tiff with Ms. Stella Oduah as a point of departure to the point I labored to make in that essay, and it is simply this: even if the Minister, Ms. Oduah has fought her big battles, the president has an obligation to demand her resignation, and expand the inquiry into other Federal government establishments.

But I suspect that Mr. Ayodeji, Fani-Kayode’s lawyer, exhibited very little comprehension of that article and even poorer communication skills in his attempts to rebut my column: I feel the personal insult of such mediocre writing and response to my essay. I too will be talking to my lawyers to advise me on the full range of defamation in that rebuttal. Meanwhile, Ayodeji described Mr. Fani-Kayode as “a man who has not only served his country well but has also saved lives by stopping crashes.”

I would take such an assertion under advisement, except that the facts seem to suggest otherwise. The plain incontrovertible fact is that Mr. Fani-Kayode was arrested in July 2008 by the EFCC for allegedly embezzling the Aviation Intervention Fund, and there is a case pending even now against him for money laundering. I have no opinion about these cases at the moment, and shall not make sub judice statements until the matter is discharged either in his favour or against him.

But it is plain fact that those who served their countries well are honoured and adulated; they are not dragged by the scruffs of their shirts before judges to answer to embezzlement and money laundering. I do not think much of Mr. Fani-Kayode. I do not see him in my waking moments. But it is my obligation as a purveyor of opinion to put him before the courts of public opinion whenever he makes use of his own bully pulpit to retail hokum as he frequently does. I have nothing also but contempt for the likes of Ayodeji who fish in shallow ponds.

*Dr. Nwakanma the writes the “Orbit” column on Sunday vanguard.

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HEN the story broke out about a week ago, it predictably sparked off an outrage. Reclusive Governor of Enugu State, Sullivan Chime, was portrayed as detaining his wife, Clara, against her will in the Government House. There were other stories credited to the troubled First Lady, of the Governor ’s alleged prolonged neglect of his marital duties.

I was dumbfounded that a couple not previously known to have domestic problems would suddenly take their dirty laundry to the public square to wash. For a woman whose husband is occupying such an enviable position to come out and complain so bitterly left me wondering. Goodness knows that a normal marriage is not always a piece of cake. Any responsibly married person will go the extra mile to defend his or her marriage and family without counting costs. It becomes more so if the father of the home is occupying the seat of Executive Governor of a state or any other enviable position. Most women will, at least for the sake of the children and other members of the family and its peripherals, forebear the man’s shortcomings and soldier on.

But the matter of forcible detention was quite another matter. It verged on human rights violations, and dehumanisation. If indeed it happened,

them.

Perhaps, we won’t go there because there is no political capital to be made from it!

A shocking dereliction of duty!

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Falana should hands off Chimes’ case fore her husband was sworn-in as Governor nearly seven years ago. The manner or name of the illness was not disclosed. But when you hear that a sick person is kept away from the public and denied access to the phone and computer with which she could communicate to the world out there, you can count your teeth with your tongue.

In other words, it was for her own good and that of the family that she was kept away from having free access to the public.

While Chime spoke, he gave the wife and other members of the family as well as her physician the opportunity to speak to the media and contradict his submissions. Since he was not contradicted, my immediate reaction was that this should be allowed

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If, indeed, she is not well and cannot competently and safely assert her liberty, Falana should back off; he should allow Chime and members of the family to devise the best means of looking after the poor woman; he should not be a Nosey Parker on a sensitive matter that is none of his business

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there would be no hiding place for Chime, not just from Lagos-based lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN) who was loudly (as usual) representing Mrs Chime all over the media, but also from all right thinking members of this society. Governor Chime is a media recluse. But this time, he had no choice but to open his doors to the media and assembly all the relevant people around him as he addressed newsmen last week. Among them were his wife, his close relations, his wife’s close relations, her physician and security officials.

It turned out that Mrs Chime is seriously indisposed, health-wise. She has been ill for a long time, even be-

to remain exactly what it is: a family affair.

I believe Falana when he says he was “briefed” by Mrs Chime, more so if indeed he has it in writing or on record. I do not fault his good intentions for petitioning the Inspector General of Police to secure her release, or for being concerned over the alleged abuse of her human rights.

But before we draw hasty conclusions, we must first of all ascertain if this lady is physically, mentally and psychologically sound enough to hold her own. Is she viable enough to assert her constitutional liberty without harming herself and other persons?

Does she want to leave the marriage

and live her life in freedom? If the answer to these questions is “ yes”, Falana should continue to represent her until she regains her freedom and her human rights.

If, indeed, she is not well and cannot competently and safety assert her liberty, Falana should back off. He should allow Chime and members of the family to devise the best means of looking after the poor woman. He should not be a Nosey Parker on a sensitive matter that is none of his

•Gov. Sullivan Chime business. He should not fish in troubled waters in the name of “human rights”.

What Mrs Chime needs is love, care and attention of her family members and physicians. She does not need this unholy and invasive public curiosity. The family does not need the embarrassment of seeing the misfortune of their wife, mother, daughter and sister being commented upon by every Tom, Dick and Harry of questionable intentions.

We must know when our “do-gooding” is not required, and take our attention-seeking shenanigans to the Awaiting Trial cells in the prisons, where there is an abundant supply of persons whose human rights have been violated for years. They will welcome us with open arms and pray for us and our families for remembering

watched with numb shock as the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on House Services, Yakubu Dogara (PDP Bauchi), in his motion of overriding public interest last week Thursday, disclosed that President Goodluck Jonathan has been sitting on 36 bills passed by the National Assembly and sent to his table for assent.

Section 50(1-4) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) mandates the president to either sign such bills into or withhold his assent.

Withholding assent does not mean ignoring bills if he does not want to sign them into. It means that he must notify the Assembly that he was withholding assent. But President Jonathan simply did neither: he ignored the bills! The Constitution does not allow that. The President has so many advisers who should let him know he is not to do that.

These include the Adviser on Political Matters, the Senior Special Adviser on National Assembly Matters and the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice.

Recently, the President sacked the Adviser on National Assembly Matters, Senator Joy Emodi, ostensibly for failing to prevail on the National Assembly not to receive the Abubakar Baraje faction of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in both chambers of the Assembly.

The impression being given here is that these appointees are only there to feather the President’s political nest, but when real issues that affect the lives of Nigerians (such as these neglected bills) are affected it does not matter.

I agree with Dogara that if these bills are allowed to remain unattended on the President’s desk the lawmaking work of the legislators will be in vain and resources spent on enacting them will be wasted. Therefore, the Assembly should assume that the President has vetoed these bills and invoke their constitutional powers in Section 58 (1 – 5) and override the his veto.

Perhaps, next time, he will no longer sleep on duty.

OPINION

BY PRINCE A. ABUGO

Continued from Friday Page 19

T

HE PDP under Governor Uduaghan is again becoming a good shade from the hash rays of the sun and stormy rainfall. This was what was replicated in the recently held PDP Delta Central senatorial election.

The aesthetic beauty of Warri at night is something that had marveled all indigenes and visitors alike; the street lights, good roads, have added to containing criminals who thrive more in the darkness of the night. However, in order not to destroy the beauty of street lights, I urge the Governor to set up a body that will safeguard these facilities in order to sustain this noble legacy.

The Enehren Junction in Warri that used to be an eye sore has witnessed a rebirth, the transformation is unprecedented. Also the Governor had commenced the dualisation of Okumagba Avenue to Deco Junction that links Warri-Sapele road. This project has won the citizens' admiration. There is the ongoing dualisation between Osubi to Eku and the

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Celebrating Uduaghan, his achievements at 59 reconstruction of Effurun roundabout, the ongoing Delta mall construction at Effurun roundabout and so many projects.

The gigantic Ughelli-Asaba dualisation project that cuts across the three senatorial districts in the State which is an indication that Delta works because Uduaghan is working. Ughelli main town itself has been transformed as there is a dual road being constructed to link the East-West road at both ends of the town and the popular market being given a modern facelift. Knowing the fact that Asaba as a capital city cannot function without an airport, he established one in the political capital of the State to complement the Osubi Airport sited at Warri the economic capital.

The massive transformation in the educational sector is an indication that the Governor means well for the State too; he understands the rot in the sector which started when the military forcefully took over missionary schools. And true to his electioneering promises the Governor had returned missionary schools to their former owners, thus creating

a healthy competition between missionary schools and Government schools. The Governor also made primary and secondary schools tuition-free ; discipline has returned and the era of getting connected before you become a school principal had gone as promotion is now strictly on seniority. Also within schools there are massive infrastructural development in the sector. This is possible through prudent management of resources.

The health sector is another marvel in the eyes of the people but many are not surprised because of the Governor's background as a medical doctor and the importance he attaches to health. Deltans appreciate his strides in this sector. The transformation in the Warri Central Hospital speaks volume of the improvements in the health sector under Uduaghan. All dilapidated buildings in the Central Hospital have been renovated and many demolished for new structures, giving room to rumours that the State Government wants to transform it into another teaching hospital.

There is unrestricted press freedom and freedom of speech as exemplified by the daily birth of community newspapers and other tabloids in the state. But the fact remains that despite the blind criticism against Uduaghan many of whom are based on ethnic sentiments rather than facts, he has remained focused, he has never used the power of State to hunt or witch-hunt opponents. As Deltans salute the Governor on his 59th birthday, we appeal that the thought of an able successor must begin now; we need a Governor who will show great understanding of the politics, economy and socio-economic drive of the state.

In continuation of his legacy, Governor Uduaghan, as a unifying factor among the ethnic nationalities in Delta South, should think of representing the zone as a voice in the Senate when his constitutional tenure ends in 2015.

Concluded

•Prince Abugo, a political analyst, wrote from Uzere, Delta State.

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HE debate on why President Goodluck Jonathan chose this time to bring up the national conference issue will continue even beyond his reign, whether the outcome meets the expectations of the people or not. The generally held view that it is better to jaw-jaw, than to war-war applies here. As long as there is an open line of communication between parties, there is hope. It is said that ‘little drops of water makes a mighty ocean’. Even if decisions arrived at are not ratified by the required authorities, relationships would have been formed across boards that will serve as foundations for future co-operation. At least, the people will get to understand better the mindsets of their counterparts from other parts of the country. Understanding is the key; by the time we begin to understand ourselves better, the barrier of communication will be broken and mutual acceptance becomes practicable.

What I am trying to express here is that the national conference is a win-win situation for all no matter the outcome.

However, considering the expectations of Nigerians - they see the conference as a panacea for all the problems bedeviling the nation – coming together and just making friends will not be enough. The major issue here is: how ready are we for this de-

bate? Are we ready to be sincere, with mutual respect for each other’s views? For the debate to work, all parties must come to the table with an open and sincere disposition. We have over 250 distinct languages/ethnic entities in Nigeria, every single one of them must be identified and given recognition. Their views must be taken into consideration, through their various representations, including those in far-flung areas like the Koma hills.

Are we ready for the views that will benefit the overall interest of Nigeria and strengthen us as a nation state or toe the views that favor our own ethnic and parochial interest? Already, some state governors and interest groups have opted out of the conference; this is a clear manifestation of the phobia for bias in the conference agenda. I will, however, advise them not to take this course; rather, they should send representations to espouse their views, including the fear they have in mind. Fortunately for us, Jonathan has unwittingly chosen men of independent minds to draw up the framework, that even before the sittings began, they have expressed divergent opinions on where to direct the outcome of the conference – whether to subject it to a referendum or to the National Assembly for assent – It is a bold statement from Femi Okurounmu; I believe we

For the debate to work, all parties must come to the table with an open and sincere disposition

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his is principally because of the nature of our politics – the one with power always hold sway, they control the resources and all of the armed forces. It will take extra ordinary measures to uproot any sitting president in Nigeria. Will President Jonathan be sincere enough to allow for a true Federal Government, constituting of 36 independent states?

As an addition to the views ex-

Health Minister’s thoughts on transformation at FMC Umuahia

BY ONYEKACHI NWADINMA

F

EDERAL Medical Centre, Umuahia (formerly known as Queen Elizabeth Specialist Hospital), Umuahia, Abia State, Nigeria is a 327-bed tertiary hospital and one of the leading health care providers in South Eastern Nigeria. The facility is centrally located and readily accessible from Enugu, Imo, Rivers, Ebonyi, AkwaIbom and Anambra states. The hospital clients and patients are drawn from all over the country but predominantly from the South East and South-South parts of the country. The hospital environment is clean and ambient.

Although established in 1945 as a mission hospital and then named Queen Elizabeth Hospital, it was in 1991 taken over by the Federal Government and renamed Federal Medical Centre, with the mandate to serve the health needs of Nigerians, especially in South East geopolitical zone, particularly residents of Abia State where it is situated.

In the last two years the management under the Chief Medical Director, CMD, Dr. Abali Chuku, an ophthalmologist, set up a reform agenda in line with President Goodluck Jonathan's transformation agenda to make the medical centre one of the best in the country in terms effective service delivery.

With the inauguration of eight-member board this year, the hospital has repositioned to cope with increasing number of patients and diversity of clients’ needs.

The facility currently boasts of 71 consultants in 26 discipline areas, vibrant residency training programme, dedicated and highly motivated workforce and strong team spirit. The centre’s mission is to provide specialised and comprehensive healthcare, using modern equipment,

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should give them a chance to see what they will come up with.

Are we ready for the Federal Government to shed its excess baggage and allow the states to blossom in the spirit of true federalism? It is interesting to note that almost everyone understands that the system we are running now is more akin to the unitary form of government than a true federation of independent states that it ought to be; unfortunately, when our politicians get into power and experience the grandeur and power of the position at the federal level, they hesitate to devolve power.

research and training through highly motivated workforce operating in a conducive environment to capture our antecedent as a mission hospital. FMC Umuahia has the fastest growing Residency Training Programme in Nigeria with recorded passes in surgery, obstetrics and gynecology, radiology, community medicine, family medicine, pediatrics, anesthesiology and internal medicine.

The Minister for Health Professor Onyebuchi Chukwu who was in the State recently to commission the State Diagnostic and Specialist Hospital, Umuahia paid unscheduled visit to the foremost medical centre after the commissioning ceremony in Umuahia. The Minister spoke with officials of the state government and management of the hospital on his impression of the transformation of FMC, Umuahia under the visionary leadership of Dr. Chuku,.

The Health Minister in an impromptu speech said: “I am on the invitation of the Governor , Chief TA Orji to come and open the Abia State Diagnostic and Specialist Hospital , Umuahia. I have little time to visit the Federal Ministry of Health and other parastatals that are here in the state. I see them on daily basis , but when it happens like this, I make effort to see how those the Federal Government entrusted with health matters are doing not only in terms of staff welfare, but to know how these institutions are coping, especially in the relationship with their host communities.

Basically, that is why l am here. I want to thank the Medical Director of the Federal Medical Centre , Umuahia for welcoming us and being able to assemble his senior management team , consultants and other staff within a short time so that we can speak

to ourselves.

I am happy that my visit here today is on a happy note. I recall that the last time I visited the Federal Medical Centre, Umuahia, it was on a sad note. The Medical Director was in Intensive Care Unit, ICU, and l came to see him there. My visit then was essentially for that purpose. I am so impressed with the progress you have made despite that unfortunate incident. I thank God for sparing your life. I am very happy that unfortunate incident has not deterred you. God has a reason for keeping you alive to complete the assignment he has given you.

A lot has been done by the medical director. I will like to commend your vision.

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BY SUNNY IKHIOYA

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For the conference to work

pressed above, we have a National Assembly, whose membership has become so used to the perks of office. Are they willing to subsume their personal ego and influence and allow the structure as it is presently constituted to change? Are they ready to accept the outcome that this conference will generate? For the conference resolutions to have any headway, it must receive the endorsement of the National Assembly. Our National Assembly members must, therefore, brace themselves up for this onerous responsibility of righting the defects in our federated structure. They must be willing to pass a motion accepting the resolutions of the conference and validating it through a people’s referendum.

Talking about a people’s referendum, we must begin to task the National Orientation Agency of the enormous responsibility to carry the people along in this project. They must devise appropriate strategies to reach the people just like the MAMSER days of Prof. Jerry Gana. In fact theirs must go further Town meetings, professional bodies of all types, schools, religious and voluntary organisations, private and public bodies, town criers, radio, television and so on – No channel of communication should be overlooked. This must be complemented by the various ministries of information both at the federal and state levels. A true referendum is the position of the people.

An ideal nation state is a very difficult level to attain but we can come close to this if all eth-

nic groups are given the opportunity to choose where they want to belong and whom they want to associate with. Situations where states are created without taking this vital point into consideration will continue to breed discontent. The United Nations acknowledges the right of every ethnic group to have a say on how they are to be governed. So indigenous ethnic groups that want to align with their own ethnic kith and kin should be allowed to do so.

Also every bon afide Nigerian should enjoy total and unfettered rights in any part of the country they choose to inhabit.

The issues to be resolved are so many that we cannot exhaust all in this forum but subjects like the secularity of the Nigerian state in the area of religion must be forcefully made. Also, our various professionals must sit and fashion out views that will elevate Nigeria’s professional status. They should fashion out policies/standards that will make them stand out amongst their peers internationally.

The issue of the Judiciary must be taken care of. How will it be structured? Are we going to have state appeal courts? Will state Police be okay? Will the federated states be along ethnic lines or a multiplicity? How will resources generated be shared?

The issues are endless. The underlining fact is that: all must come to the table with an open and sincere mind to move the nation forward, it is possible.

*Mr Ikhioya, a commentator on national issues, wrote from Lagos

are paying salaries regularly. People who worked should be paid. I must commend you also on that. People should be promoted promptly’’ .

Earlier in his welcome speech, the Medical Director, Dr Abali Chuku said the policy thrust of the management is line with President Jonathan’s transformation agenda in the health sector and enumerated the progress recorded since he assumed office as the Chief Medical Director. He stressed the credit should go to the Minister for his cooperation and numerous support to the nation’s foremost medical centre.

According to Dr Chuku: “We have used available recourses to advance this hospi-

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For years back, we had a hospital that had a poor public image; we are happy to say that we have now a hospital that people can be very proud of

You are one of the Medical Directors in the country that have vision. I am impressed with your vision . Without vision, one cannot make the desired impact.

"I want to commend you for completing this edifice we are meeting. I know it was started by the former Medical Director. I am happy you have completed it and opened it for use. I am indeed happy, it shows progress. I am very impressed so is the Governor. It was actually the Governor who said I should go and see the building you have put in this place. He is also happy about it. I am also happy with your new project- that is the 88-bed ward.

"I think the vision you are bringing in is good. You are one of the Medical Directors of Federal Medical Centres in the country who keep on writing me on what you are doing. I am also happy for your pioneering work in terms of brain surgery and that is commendable.

You Should consolidate on that by supporting the unit that perform that medical feat to do much better.I am also happy you

tal. FMC Umuahia in the past few years has witnessed a huge transformation. For years back, we had a hospital that had a poor public image. We came in here to see how we can change this public perception of the hospital. We are happy to say that we have now a hospital that people can be very proud of. This is a credit to your administration as the Hournable Minister of Health.

Under your administration, we have made giant strides and great impact . We have seen huge funding to this establishment. Under your administration, we have been able to build an 88-bed ward. It will come out as a three star ward with the state of the art facility’’ .

The 88 bed ward,Dr Chuku informed that the 88-bed ward “ has 16 private rooms, and in each private room, will have basically what you will obtain in any decent hospital in Europe. It will have bed heads, piped oxygen, piped vacuum and suction. It will have everything, kitted properly". *Nwadinma, a medical doctor , wrote from Aba, Abia State.

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My husband’s plans for Ndi Anambra — Mrs. Ifeyinwa Nwoye

BY EMMANUEL AZIKEN

MRS. Ifenyinwa Nwoye, wife of the PDP candidate has articulated reasons why her husband should be voted in this weekend.

In a message circulating on facebook, Mrs. Nwoye lauds her husband’s accomplishments as a family man, civil and students’ rights cum political leader, among other testimonials. She said those past achievements would bear positive influence on the governance of the state if her husband is elected this Saturday.

“He has a character line that reflects unpretentious family and social concerns and lives laboring for collective good.

this mandate given to Comrade Tony Nwoye is a sacred social contract with a man of charisma and mission to serve and transform Anambra state to her preeminent LIGHT OF THE NATION status.”

“I witness that his propeople and transformational manifesto is a sacred covenant and out there begging for your cherished voters’ mandate.

He is a good man, he has been a tested activist and political leader. He will do well •Mrs Nwoye: My husband is good for Anambra He believes in the power of good fathers and young shared vision even at the elements electorate, I stood as family level. Good mothers, young mother to witness that

Ngige chides Obi's economic record

BY EMMANUEL AZIKEN

APC candidate, Senator Chris Ngige has flayed Governor Peter Obi over what he claimed as his inept management of the state’s economic resources.

Ngige in a statement issued by his campaign office accused Governor Obi of failing to raise the state’s internally generated revenue beyond N600 million monthly in over eight years.

In a statement issued by Mr. Toni Icheku on behalf of the campaign office, Ngige said: ‘’It is either that Gov. Obi has not told Anambrarians the conduit through which our monies are being siphoned or the non-growth of the IGR is due to his economic ineptitude.”

The governorship candidate who described the non-growth of the IGR by the Obi administration as shocking and a thing of shame explained that

•Ngige he raised Anambra’s IGR from N50 million to N450 within 33 months.

Ngige further lamented that the Obi administration had treated civil servants shabbily arguing that Gov. Obi’s monthly security vote of N500 million is bogus, as other

relevant sectors were left unattended to and promised that his administration would be financially prudent, transparent and creative.

Ngige specifically described as shameful the fact that the Obi administration had failed to implement the minimum wage legislation as Anmabra State pays the least wage among in the country. I will use the scale of relativity to implement the minimum wage that will be acceptable to all cadres of civil servants in the state” He maintained that civil servants as soldiers of any government deserve better treatment and explained that the Minimum wage based on a scale of relativity implies that those receiving less than N18,500/month must have a percentage of the minimum wage as salary.

APGA expresses anxiety over influx of miscreants CHRIS OCHAYI & CALEB AYANSINA

APGA National Chairman, Chief Victor Umeh has expressed anxiety over the influx of miscreants into Anambra State ahead of the weekend election.

Umeh who spoke when he presented the APGA candidate, Wilie Obiano to the Anambra community in Abuja at the weekend thus called on the Federal Government to deploy soldiers to the state ahead of the election.

Also presented to the Anambra community was Obiano’s running mate, Nkemakonam Okeke to them, in Abuja.

Umeh said: “we came here to introduce our governorship candidate; Dr Willie Obiano and his running mate, Nkemakonam Okeke to the people of Anambra state

residing in FCT. He said it was necessary to solicit the support of the Anambrarians living in FCT to consolidate on the various achievements recorded by Governor Peter Obi, noting that the party believed that its candidates could be trusted with the state’s administration.

“We have capable hands to do the job. We have found him to be worthy in character and learning, they are the most qualified people to be trusted with the state,” he stressed.

Umeh further noted that though the party believed in the ability of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct free and fair election, but with the influx of miscreants currently in the state there is going to be a problem.

“It is important to state clearly that one challenge that this election may likely face will be in the area of security.

“We want to use this opportunity to ask Mr. President as Commander-inChief to do everything to ensure that this election is not mismanaged through security lapses.

“We want them to start to deploy policemen, and if possible soldiers on time, deploying policemen a day to the election usually do not work, because before the election criminals could have infiltrated the state.

“I can tell you today that we are very worried about the action of miscreants, the overzealous and desperate politicians have imported into the state, and they are planning to wreck havoc on the day of election.

So, if the President gives the right instruction, I am sure with full security deployment and INEC lives up to expectation, the election will be a success.”

as a grassroots governor and there will be accountability, transparent and good governance, genuine government and workers’ relationship, job opportunities, youth and women empowerment programmes, etc. Ndi nne, ndi nna na ndi ntorobia Anambra state, vote Comrade Tony Nwoye for governor of Anambra state; vote for our children’s children. No two ways to Anambra liberation,” Mrs. Nwoye wrote.

Mystery boys take over Awka Hotels

BY VINCENT UJUMADU

A number of young men have in recent days taken up lodgment in many hotels in Awka, the state capital.

A visit to some hotels around the state capital showed that the hotels have been fully booked with many of the young men hanging around.

The task of the young men in Awka is presently unknown feeding speculations that they may have been recruited by some of the parties to do hatchet jobs during the election this weekend. Information has it that many of the youths were recruited from neighbouring states.

However, the promise of the

president at the flag-off of the campaign of the PDP candidate, Tony Nwoye that the election would be devoid of irregularities and that every vote would count may have sent shivers into the spine of those hoping to use the boys to carry out dirty jobs.

Jonathan, who spoke through Vice President Namadi Sambo said: “I want to bring you the assurances of Mr. President that he will not interfere in the Anambra governorship election. It will be one man, one vote; one woman, one vote; one youth, one vote. “ The vice president was however optimistic that going by the turnout at the Awka rally; PDP would reclaim Anambra State, which it lost in 2003.

Candidates shun debate on security

BY VINCENT UJUMADU

THE proposed governorship debate on security earlier scheduled for today, Monday, at the Emmaus House in Awka has been cancelled.

Three establishments namely, Bonangel Ltd, Gallop Polls Nig Ltd and A-Services Ltd had planned the debate in collaboration with the office of the Inspector General of Police, IGP.

In a statement in Awka yesterday, the chairman of the local organizing committee, Chief A.O Chigbo said: “Our inability to secure the commitment of the candidates to attend the debate informed the cancellation and we sincerely apologize for inconveniences caused those invited, including the panelists, resource persons, delegates and observers.”

Obiano, Nwoye attack Ngige strongholds

BY VINCENT UJUMADU

THE APGA and PDP candidates, Willie Obiano and Tony Nwoye, are going into the last week of the election with strong attacks on the bases of the APC candidate, Chris Ngige.

Ngige at the weekend lost one of his past consistent supporters, a businessman and prominent son of Ogidi in Idemili North local government area, Chief Samuel Anyanwutaku, (Omeokachie Ogidi). He had in the past strongly backed Ngige in his past election quests.

Nwoye on the other hand stole at least 10,000 supporters of the APC candidate who were aligned with disenchanted APC chieftain, Senator Annie Okonkwo.

The Okonkwo supporters at the weekend pledged support to

Nwoye, the PDP candidate in a ceremony at Senator Okonkwo’s headquarters in Awka.

Speaking at the event, one of the leaders of the group from Nnewi South Hon Uchenna Okafor said that they were tired of the lies and deceits of APC and have therefore decided to support for the PDP following the recognition of Nwoye as the PDP candidate.

Comrade Nwoye and his entourage according to a statement by his campaign office, arrived the campaign office of Senator Annie Okonkwo exactly by 11.20am and were welcomed with drums; music and fanfare.

They were immediately ushered in by the organisers of the event with directive from Senator Annie Okonkwo.

Vanguard, MONDAY NOVEMBER 11, 2013 — 51

Vanguard CLASSIFIED JACK—I, formerly known and addressed as Adejo Adu Jack, now wish to be known and addressed as Adejo Godwin Jackson. All former documents remain valid.

Premium Pensions Limited and general public please take note.

Addition of name: ESE

ALABI—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Patience Aituaje Alabi, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Patience Aituaje Ogueri. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

OKAFOR —I, formerly known as Miss Shulamite Chinyere Okafor, now wishes to be known as Mrs. Shulamite Chinyere Avekpa. All former documents remain valid.

General public please take note.

known

ATTAH—I, formerly known and addressed as Attah Vivian Nyiabu, now wish to be known and addressed as Anyanku Vivian Tony. All former documents remain valid. WAEC, NECO and general public please take note.

TYOUGH —I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Stella Ngumimi Tyough, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Ortom Stella Ngumimi. All former documents remain valid.

Concerned authorities and general public please take note.

OGHENEVWEDE—I, formerly known as Miss E d i t h Emurohwoherohwo Oghenevwede, now wishes to be known as Mrs. Temile Edith Emurohwoherohwo .

All former documents remain valid. University of Calabar and general public please take note.

OSAIGBOVO—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Sarah Osaigbovo, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Sarah Igenebor. All former documents remain valid. Police Service Commission, Abuja and general public please take note.

OYOM—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Oyom Comfort Runyi, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Comfort Runyi Effiom All former documents remain valid.

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OMARI —I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Ogar Rose Omari, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. OgarAdetayo Rose. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

U B A — I , formerly known and Addressed as Miss Uba Lilian Chikaodinaka, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Ngofa Ruzzel Lilian Chikaodinaka. All former documents remain valid.

FMC and general public should take note.

NWAMAKA—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Nelson Jessica Nwamaka, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Jessica Markobi. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

OLOGHOWENYEMA— I, formerly known and addressed as Temile G o d w i n Ologhowenyema, now wish to be known as Temile Omadeli Godwin . All former documents remain valid. NNPC/WRPC, other Governmental and non-Governmental organisations and general public please take note.

OSEH—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Oseh Asana Elizabeth, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Elizabeth Asana Timinimi. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

Confirmation of name I hereby state that I am the same person as Mr. Eriokpa Sunday and Mr. Eriokpa Dikeniwe Sybarite Sunday. All former documents remain valid. Nigerian Police Fo r c e a n d general public should take note.

OGBEIDE—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Ebunoluwa Osamudiamen Ogbeide, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. E b u n o l u w a Osamudiamen Owojaiye. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

OSA—I, formerly known and addressed as Mr. Chris Osa Ogiemwonyi, now wish to be known and addressed as Mr. Chris Eseosa Ogiemwonyi. All former documents remain valid.

General public please take note.

NDUJIHE—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Ndujihe, Eziada Peace Janet, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Ndukwe Eziada Peace Janet. All former documents remain valid. Radiance High School and general public please take note.

OHWOFASA—I, formerly known as Miss Ohwofasa Ese Jennifer, now wish to be as

Mrs.

Olualogbo Ese Jennifer.

All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

VANGUARD'S LAGOS OFFICE YOU CAN B O O K Y O U R A D V E R T S AT OU R L A G O S I S L A N D O F FI C E — VA N G U A R D MEDIA LIMITED (LAGOS OFFICE) K I O S K 4 8 E A S T PAV I L I O N T B S , L A G O S .

Eaglet’s father says he discouraged na, spotted him. son from football He disclosed that Taiwo

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R Solomon Awoniyi, father of Golden Eaglets’ striker, Taiwo Awoniyi, said he used to beat his son to discourage him from playing football.

Awoniyi told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) at his Gbagba residence, Ilorin, that he never knew Taiwo would play football to global level.

He said the football career of his son started during his elementary school days, noting that he (Taiwo) would always disappear from the house to play football and the whole family would be looking for him.

Awoniyi praised the efforts of Taiwo’s coach, Rasaq Olojo, whom he said discovered and nur-

tured him.

He said the striker was part of the team that participated in a Coca Cola competition in Ibadan, which later earned him a trip to London in 2010, where former Nigerian football stars Nduka Ugbade and Seyi Olofinja-

FIFA replaces Kabanda with Range

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ORLD footballgoverning body, FIFA, has replaced Rwandan official, Felicien Kabanda, earlier billed to serve as Assistant Referee 2 in Saturday ’s 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifier be-

Maigari Continues from BP started the year with a trophy (Africa Cup of Nations) and are ending the year with another trophy (U-17 World Cup).

By Saturday, we will pick up the ticket to the 2014 FIFA World Cup finals in Brazil.

“The Super Eagles have done the hard job in Ethiopia, but we cannot afford to be overconfident and leave our guards. The team will play the second leg game as if it is the World Cup final.

“We really appreciate the prayers, support and encouragement of all Nigerians, starting with His Excellency, President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR. Our triumph at the FIFA U-17 World Cup in United Arab Emirates, even while we were absent from the 2011 edition, is testimony that with hard work, perseverance, team work, purposefulness, dedication and doggedness, so much is possible.”

Jonathan Continues from BP ward to the head coach of the team, Manu Garba while his assistants were given N2.5 million each.

President Jonathan did not forget the back room staff as they were also rewarded with various

amounts of money, ranging from N500,000 to N300,000.

Similarly, the President promised National Honours to each member of the Board of the Alhaji Aminu Maigari-led Nigeria Football Federation.

Dike replaces Nwofor

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UPER Eagles’ Head Coach, Stephen Keshi has replaced SC Heerenveen of Netherlands’ striker Uche Nwofor, with power-playing Bright Dike of Toronto FC of Canada in his squad to face both Ethiopia and Italy in the next eight days.

Dike, who was brought into the squad only last year and scored a fabulous goal in a highprofile friendly against Catalonia in Barcelona in January, missed the cut for the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations that Nigeria won

Awoniyi was voted the most valuable player and came home with the award from London in 2010.

Awoniyi, a retired Police Officer, said he was happy to watch his son represent Nigeria in a world tournament.

in South Africa.

“We are bringing him into the squad because we know what he is capable of doing and we believe he is fully fit to deliver,” Coach Keshi said.

tween Nigeria and Ethiopia at the U. J. Esuene Stadium, Calabar.

A new circular sent by the world body indicates that the role will now be played by Marwa Range from Kenya.

All other officials as previously announced retain their roles.

Saturday’s game is the final qualifying game for the African champions, and they hold a 2-1 advantage from the first leg away in Ethiopia last month.

Eagles Continues from BP for the national teams always because we are used to them and they are used to us. We expect nothing but a handsome victory and we know the team is up to it”, Ugbe said on return from UAE, where he had gone to cheer the Golden Eaglets to victory.

Achor on his part says he expects that training will start on Tuesday morning depending on the arrival schedule of most players, adding that by their schedule the Eagles will have a healthy training schedule before the game.

“The team will be ready, healthy and well and all of our players are well for the battle for the ticket to Brazil 2014. That will be seen on Saturday at the UJ Esuene Stadium”, Achor quoted Keshi as saying at the weekend.

Keshi Continues from BP “Once again I say kudos to Coach Manu Garba, Emmanuel Amunike, Nduka Ugbade and Emeka Amadi, they have really helped to stenghten the crenden-

tials of the Nigerian coaches and made us proud not only as a nation but as a group and also in the profession, may such things continue to happen to Nigerian football.”

52 — Vanguard, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2013

Vanguard, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2013 — 53

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54 — Vanguard, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2013

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Vanguard, MONDAY NOVEMBER 11, 2013 — 55

I

Alampasu comes of age

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E was considered the weakest link in the Golden Eaglets chain. He could not deal with crosses and the match against Sweden exposed him a great deal. Others forgave him. Afterall he had four defenders players like Musa Mohammed and Okon who preferred to go scoring than defend their back line.

The coaches kept faith with him and he delivered, conceding just five goals in seven matches including two blank sheets. His

•Alampasu greatest display however was in the final, when twice he kept his team in the game with two breath taking saves, especially the 8th minute flip over the bar from an Ochoa strike.

He repeated the feat in the 31st minute when a powerful header by

Unsung heroes ...glory men

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HEY call them back room staff, those that cannot be seen in the sitting room when visitors are around.

When journalists and cameras come calling, they are relegated to the back ground, yet they are those who help to oil the machinery of the team’s success.

First on this list is Goalkeeper trainer E m e k a A m a d i . We forget that four coaches are attached to this team. We remember Manu, Ugbade, Amuneke and forget Amadi, the man who guided Alampasu (A C M Y K

graduate of the College of Football, Abuja ) to becoming the best goalkeeper in the tournament. Unknown to Nigerians Amadi went to the world cup with three new goalkeepers different from those that went to Morocco. One of them Uzoho Odinaka infact joined the team less than two months ago.

Then there is Dr Deji Olarinoye and Physiotherapist Gabriel Oyegun. The Coordinator of the team is Suleiman Abubakar ex player a n d f o r m e r Te a m Manager of FC Abuja.

Being part of history

,

could not have missed that final match for anything.

I go back three years and the process of putting the coaches together by the Technical Committee. The effort of convincing Nduka Ugbade to be part of the team. The difficulty in assembling the boys together in a country where mothers swear that their children are 14 years old, just to smuggle them into the team!

Then came the threat of the MRI Scan and the first ever test on African stage. Off we went, to Niger, Niamey for that very first match, September 8, 2012 and hammered the host 4-1 and came back to Calabar and walloped them 6-0.

I came back excited and went gaga, told all those who cared to listen that we had the future of Nigerian football in our hands. I said the combination of the coaching crew was as complimentary as it was near perfect. Who are those boys in this country that will whisper when an Nduka Ugbade or an Amuneke was talking?

Have they not been told that Manu Garba was a World Cup winner? So started a journey that ended in the African Championship in Morocco, after a four year absence from continental stage. Tipped to win, we faltered at the last hurdle through penalties, going into the FIFA event as Vice Champions of Africa.

The team Statistician and Media Chief, Morankiyo Abodurin will confirm that this team played a total of 49 matches, won 44, drew 4 and lost only one in regulation time. Awesome...awesome. Their goals scoring prowess had never been in doubt, scoring 221 goals and conceding only 35!

I left for the UAE with the painful loss in the African Championship fresh in my mind. I left scared that in

The last times were not the best of times. This time is different. This time, there is a future

,

football, the best teams, don’t always win. How can football allow a team we beat 6-1 to share the same field with us?

Is there no head to head concoction that should automatically hand over the cup to us and allow the match to be a mere formality? The Mexicans, defending champions were waxing strong. After the Eaglets scare they had grown from strength to strength, eliminating power houses Brazil and Argentina in their wake.

As I sat there in Abu Dhabi, a lot of thoughts flowed throughout my mind. But I was reassured by the thousands of green white green on display. They say the Nigerian colours are dim. Last Friday, they shone like a million

Special reports by Paul Bassey Aines from point blank range was parried over.

Thereafter, in the 35th, 38th, 47th, 62nd and 67th minutes he could not be faulted as he punched, cleared, kicked and caught Mexican goal bound moves.

His confidence was manifested in the 79th minute when he taunted a Mexican striker with a “come and get the ball “ theatrics. No wonder FIFA Technical Study Group adjudged him the Golden Gloves of the tournament.

The hard working Team Secretary Ta y o Egbaiyelo and Mohammed Kafa the Equipment Manager and our own indefatigable Morankiyo Abodunrin, the Media officer who churns out stories as if there will be no tomorrow.

These are the Glory Men, without them where will the boys be?

NFF technical Committee member, Paul Bassey and members of the Golden Eaglets technical crew after the final of the FIFA U-17 World Cup in UAE

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OVERNOR Liyel Imoke had to travel to the UAE, to “finish what he had started” It was a proud Governor who aboard the Emirates Airline that brought the team homesaidthepeopleofCross River State were humbled by this great achievement done them by the Golden Eaglets.

He went down memory lane and expressed happiness for taking a decision to host and back the boys from inception.

“We believed in them, invested in them and we are now reaping bountifully” he said. In the same vein he quickly reminded that there was still work to be done. “……Don’tforgetthatwestill have an unfinished business this weekend in Calabar against the Ethiopians. After that we can put our celebration in top gear” The Honourable Minister of Sports Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi on his part was to

stars. NFF General Secretary Musa Amadu was awed. “ ….This could have been any stadium in Nigeria. Just look at the turn out “ I said to him that even in Nigeria, some venues may not attract the type of crowd we were seeing here. When it was time to sing the National Anthem, their voices rang out to high heavens as goose pimples of patriotism broke out all over my flesh.

Then the moment of truth as the match kicked off and the Mexicans went straight into business with evidence that their coach Raul Guttierez must have studied that ominous tape of the match again and again. In what Emmanuel Oyabunmi, protocol Head of the NFF described as Initial Gra Gra ( IGG ) the Mexican probed and probed.

Alampasu started a counter in the 8th……then we struck.

Drew first blood in the ninth.

The rest is now history. The cup is now in Nigeria.

I pray that when the boys are received by Mr President the NFF will be remembered and appreciated for three years of hard work, friendly matches, campings, everything. I say this because I was in Aso Rock last time out when the Super Eagles were honoured and the Board members of the NFF did not even have seats allocated to them in what was supposed to be their show.

I was asked at the airport. “ ….This is not the first time.

Why are you excited about this time” I said we should not go back. Nigerians know why the last times were not the best of times. This time is different. This time, there is a future.

Congratulations Nigeria.

See you next week, when we shall meet to talk about our World Cup qualification, by the grace of the Almighty God.

Gov Imoke, Minister, Maigari smile since the boys won the in cloud 9 say “ It is not our fault. We are Nigerians” He has decided to put in motion a machinery that will help to protect the boys from foreign scouts who may end up buying them into slavery. “….Wemustassumetherole of parents. Yes they need money as most of them are bread winners in their families. They need houses and whatever they can get, but what they need most is protection and proper counselingtoguaranteetheir future. “...The moment we get back home we must sit down with the NFF and plan ahead.Youwillagreewithme that this is the future of our football and we must handle them with care,” he said.

Ifyouseeanymanwearing a permanent and infectious

cup, then that person is Alhaji Aminu Maigari, President of the Nigeria Football Federation. “ Mr Paul, we thank God. This is a result of hard work and perseverance. I thank Mr President, Governor Liyel Imoke, the Honourable Sports Minister and all Nigerians who supported us on the way to this historic feat.

“I thank my colleagues on the board and the management staff.

“I thank the boys and their handlers for remaining focused throughout their assignment” Alhaji Maigari said, recounting how he was a centre of attraction within FIFA circles. “ it was well done Nigeria…….well done N i g e r i a throughout’………….” He said

VANGUARD, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2013

Eagles camp opens in evening and Tuesday Calabar Morning, according to

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HE Super Eagles camp in Calabar, Cross River State will open today in the Canaan City, with almost all the players expected between Monday

Why I won’t pick Eaglets now — Keshi S

UPER Eagles boss, Stephen Okechukwu Keshi, has heaped praises on players and members of the technical crew for making the nation proud at the just ended U17 World Cup championship in the United Arab Emirates.

“I’m particularly proud of the coaching crew, because they again showed that some of the best coaches are from Africa. I hail the Minister and the NFF for providing an absolute conducive environment for the team and we hope it will continue to be like that all the times.

Keshi then spoke on how he thinks members of the U17 national team can get into the Super Eagles, which he heads.

To him, there should be

a gradual push for the boys towards the main national team, even as he insists that age has got nothing to do with the players getting into the Super Eagles.

“I will want the players to take the natural route of maturity, play for the Flying Eagles, then maybe the U23 and then we can start looking at them. During that period we may find one or two of them that can make impact in the national team and we will not hesitate to invite them”, he said.

Continues on Page 51

President Jonathan rewards Eaglets *N2m to each Eaglet *Manu Garba gets N3m, assistants N2.5m *NFF board members to get National Honours

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*President Goodluck Jonathan lifts the FIFA U-17 World Cup trophy at the reception for the Golden Eaglets yesterday in Abuja. Photo: State House

RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan yesterday showered each member of the all-conquering FIFA U-17 World Cup winners, the Golden Eaglets with 2 million Naira.

Receiving the Eaglets at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, the President announced N3 million re

Continues on Page 51

Maigari: World Cup ticket to follow World Cup triumph

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RESIDENT of Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaji Aminu Maigari has

assured Nigerians that the Super Eagles will earn a ticket to the 2014 FIFA World Cup finals in

PUZZLE

their final qualifying match against Ethiopia in Calabar on Saturday, only eight days after the

Golden Eaglets set a world record of four wins in the FIFA U-17 World Cup competition.

“It has been an exceedingly great year for Nigerian football. We Continues on Page 51

QUICK CROSSWORD

Sudoku TODAY'S

the Team’s Scribe, Dayo Enebi Achor.

Earlier Cross River State Sports Commissioner, Hon Patrick Ugbe, has said that all necessary logistics have been put in place for a fruitful camping and eventual victory for the national team on Saturday against the Wyala Antelopes of Ethiopia.

“On our part we are serious, quick and ready Continues on Page 51

YESTER DAY'S YESTERDAY'S

ANSWERS

ACROSS 1 Apportioned (6) 5 Safe (6) 8 Example (8) 9 Avoid (4) 10 Obtain (3) 12 Correct (5) 15 Chop (3) 17 Lubricate (3) 18 Watch (3) 19 Vase (3) 20 Start (5) 21 Deed (3) 22 Tavern (3) 23 Stray (3) 24 Curve (3) 26 Sea-duck (5) 29 Attempt (3) 33 Monster (4) 34 Killer (8) 35 Venerate (6) 36 Team (6)

DOWN 2 Turning-point (5) 3 Ceremony (4) 4 Material (5) 5 Strict (5) 6 Throw (4) 7 Excite (5) 10 Cheese (5) 11 Pick-me-up (5) 12 Solitary (5) 13 Relaxed (5) 14 Dissuade (5) 15 Centre (5) 16 Humorous (5) 25 Rascal (5) 27 Angry (5) 28 Follow (5) 30 Elevate (5) 31 Lake (4) 32 Island (4)

YESTERDAY'S SOLUTIONS ACROSS: 1, Find 4, Tap 6, Weak 8, Person 9, Nature 10, Ate 12, Gloom 14, Crypt 15, Besom 18, Delete 20, Averse 24, Total 26, Stuck 28, Tamed 30, Ant 32, Invent 33, Raised 34, Stud 35, Mup 36, Note

DOWN: 2, Ideal 3, Disrobe 4, Tuna 5, Pane 6, Water 7, Apropos 11, Too 12, God 13, Met 16, Set 17, Mat, 19, Extinct 21, Vat 22, Elation 23, End 25, Own 27, Creed 29, Erect 30, Atom 31, Trip

How to Play Sudoku

P

lace 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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