Retirements: Army, 38 officers in war of words

Conglomerates, multinationals lose N320bn in 6 months

By Emeka Anaeto, Economy Editor

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AGOS — LOSSES incurred by investors in conglomerates, multinational corporations and other big capitalized

companies quoted on the Nigerian Stock Exchange, NSE, as a result of the delay in the roll out of the new flexible foreign exchange policy has hit

N320 billion as at yesterday.

The stock market had recorded a massive rally following the announcement by the

Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, of its plan to introduce a flexible foreign exchange regime.

But the bullish trend gave way to a massive

bear run which brought down total market capitalization to N9.3 trillion, yesterday, from N9.7 trillion as at May 25, 2016, a day after the CBN

Dangote Cement battles pressured margins•P.22

...towards a better life for the people VOL. 25: NO. 63049

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announcement, with the blue chips accounting for about 80 per cent of the total losses.

The stock value depreciation was coming against several months of Continues on page 21

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N200

TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 2016

Retirements: Army, 38 officers in war of words Retired officers have no case — Defence Minister Our retirements driven by vendetta — Retired officers We followed due process in all cases — COAS

By Kingsley Omonobi & Emmanuel Elebeke

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BUJA — THE Army high command and 38 senior officers retired last week were, yesterday, locked in a war of words over the latter ’s mode of disengagement.

While the Army and Defence Minister, Mansur Mohammed Continues on Page 5

PDP crisis deepens as Sheriff takes over party secretariat 9

Mr & Mrs MEETING: President Muhammadu Buhari (right) receiving a souvenir from the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, after a meeting in London, yesterday. Photo: NAN.

HIJAB: Religious crisis looms in Osun COLUMNIST: A’Ibom community bemoans abandoned fishing terminal See inside

Rochas Okorocha and the ragged-trousered philanthropists •P.17

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12 Niger Delta Avengers now ready for dialogue with FG

2—Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 2016

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POCKET CARTOON usually existed between the Ministry of Defence and the Services in the area of military procurement and logistics requirement was no longer prevalent, adding that there was now better co-ordination, cooperation and transparency that had made things easier.

We followed due process in retiring them — Buratai Ousted National Chairman of People's Democtratic Party, PDP, Senator Ali Modu Sheriff middle), addressing journalists and his supporters after he was denied access into the party headquarters, Wadata House, Wuse Zone 5, Abuja, yesterday. Photo: Abayomi Adeshida

Retirements: Army, 38 officers in war of words Continues from page 1 Dan Ali, said the officers were indicted for what they described as political and monetary corruption, some of the officers said they were not given fair hearing, arguing that they were neither involved in the 2015 elections nor procurement of arms and ammunition used in the war against Boko Haram.

Those retired included nine Major Generals, 10 Brigadier-Generals, seven Colonels, 11 Lieutenant Colonels and a Major.

Retired officers have no case

The Defence Minister, who spoke at the Peace Support seminar organized at the National Defence College, Abuja, said those protesting the retirement had no case, especially since due process was followed before the retirements were announced.

He said: “This is about

Defence sector reforms and it has to start in earnest. What we did is to make sure that all those indicted in one way or the other, both for professional corruption and monetary corruption, were shown the way out.

“By professional corruption, I mean if you are partisan, that is professional corruption and you will be asked to go. That is exactly what happened. So, all those that were indicted were asked to go."

Asked if the officers were given fair hearing and terms and condition of service strictly observed, the minister said: “Of course, they were given fair hearing.

They were called by a board and they went and testified.

“Don’t forget that in the military, there is no halfway of doing things. The moment you are found wanting, you have to succumb and you will go.”

Meanwhile, the

IT'S UP TO YOU

BY AYO ADIO - 08104802192

K

NOW that super-achievers are not really smarter or more intelligent than you are, they are only more informed. The future belongs to the well informed and the better informed.

TAKE HEART

BY ELLA RANDLE- O8084919482 UST because we do not see the air that we breathe does not mean it is not there. Just because you do not understand the mysteries does not mean there are no answers—Take Heart Quotes

J

Always give room for a greater understanding, for there is always more than our perception allows.

Those who live in larger rooms of consciousness are constantly building and making ways for others and self. The gift of awareness comes with a better appreciation of our purpose in life and how we relate with one another.

SAYINGS OF OUR PEOPLE

I

F the vulture fails to hover at the end of a sacrifice, then you know that something has happened in the land of the spirits.

Defence Minister in his remarks at the seminar, said: “There is political will under the Buhari administration to transform the armed forces."

Emphasizing that the involvement of the military in policing duties around the nooks and crannies of the country was responsible for the Army getting involved in politics, Dan Ali said: “Of recent, most of the functions of the police had been taken over by the military. But we cannot just go and take away the armed forces from the streets. It has to be a gradual process.

“2015 election duties were not our responsibility.

Our duties were only to support the police. The military was involved in too much professional corruption by way of partisanship. We were not to be seen near polling stations.

“But due to the militancy of our elections, the military were called in as standby and to support the police, not to take over the elections and coerce people.

Military soiled its hands

“The consequence is that the military has soiled its hands. We are losing credibility. That is why I have called for security sector reforms.

“In alliance with the Ministry of Interior, we are returning the police to its pride of place. We are initiating better training for them to perform their functions better.’’

In his address, Commandant of the National Defence College, Rear-Admiral Samuel Alade, said since the Defence Minister assumed office, the friction that

Speaking in a similar vein, yesterday, Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-General Tukur Buratai, said the Army followed due process in retiring the senior officers.

Buratai, who gave the explanation when he paid a courtesy call on the Minister of Communications, Adebayo Shittu, in his office in Abuja, said there was no better time to carry out the exercise than now as the process took a painstaking effort to achieve.

He said the entire process was subjected to various stages of scrutiny to avoid picking innocent officers, adding that the list was, thereafter, forwarded to higher authorities for consideration.

He said: “There is no better time than now to retire the affected military officers. It took us painstaking procedure to be sure that we don’t pick innocent ones.

“We started with inquiry from one Division GOC to the other. After that, we subjected it to legal review.

After the legal review, we forwarded our recommendations to higher authorities for consideration.

“So, it took us time; we have our own process also; our administrative process, dovetailing into our legal review and so on. I think this is the better time; there is no better time than now.”

On the visit to the

Communication Ministry, Buratai said it was targeted at expanding existing collaboration between the Nigerian Army and the ministry in the areas of satellite and data communications.

He explained that national security was key in the visit, since it was important for the army to collaborate in order to fight Boko Haram terrorism and other security challenges facing the country.

He said: “We want to carry out our activities more efficiently and professionally. We are here deliberately to collaborate with the Ministry of Communications, in the areas of communication security. We know that communication is vital to security operation of the Nigerian Army.

“We have a number of security challenges in the North-East and in the Niger Delta but we need closer collaboration with the Ministry of Communication.

“From the Galaxy Backbone and satellite agencies, these institutions have great impact on our communication needs. We have been collaborating already in terms of providing the basic communications and satellite facilities but we need to expand our operation.”

Our retirements driven by mischief, vendetta

However, some officers who spoke to Vanguard, insisted the retirement was done out of mischief and vendetta, noting that many of them never appeared before any board of inquiry, neither did their offices have anything to do with the 2015 general elections for which they were being victimized.

One officer told Vanguard: “Look at the list of those retired. These are brigade commanders, GOCs and commanding officers, who served in all the states lost by the APC to PDP. “What is our offence?

Would we have forced the people to vote for candidates other than their choice?"

Another officer told Vanguard: “Thank God, this is democracy and we have a right to be heard.

They have done their bit but many of us have decided, we are going to fight this injustice in court.

“Some people cannot just arrogate power to themselves and ruin the careers of other persons who have given their all to the nation."

GENCOs ask court to bar NERC from reviewing electricity tariffs

By Ikechukwu Nnochiri

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BUJA — FIVE electricity generating companies have dragged National Electricity Regulatory Commission, NERC, before a Federal High Court in Abuja over plans to review the current tariffs they are charging their customers.

The plaintiffs, Egbin Power Plc, Geregu Power Plc, Transcorp Power Ltd,

Kainji Hydro Electric Plc, and Jebba Hydro Electric plc, are praying the court to stop NERC from taking steps towards reviewing the tariffs.

Also charged as corespondents in the matter are the Senate and the Attorney-General of the Federation.

The plaintiffs initiated the suit on behalf of themselves and other GENCOs operating in Nigeria.

They are specifically

praying the court for an order restraining NERC from reversing the MultiYear Tariff Order 2015, whether of its own accord or under pressure from the Nigerian Senate.

The plaintiffs argued that section 76 of the Electric Power Sector Reforms Act 2005, guaranteed that electricity tariffs would be reflective of the costs (costsreflective tariff) incurred in the generation and distribution of electricity.

6—Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 2014

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Bayelsa hospital threatens mass burial for 10-yr-old corpses

By Samuel Oyadongha

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ENAGOA—THE Federal Medical Centre, the only federal referral hospital in Bayelsa State, has threatened to conduct mass burial for hundreds of unclaimed corpses.

The decision by the hospital authorities followed a 21-day public notice informing owners of the unclaimed bodies to come, identify theirs and have them removed.

The authorities of the medical facility said though the pathologist of the centre is compiling a list and number of unclaimed corpses, most of the corpses were 10 years old and abandoned by security personnel.

Speaking on the development, the Chief Medical Director of FMC, Dr. Dennis Alagoa, explained that the move among other things was to create space in the mortuary as fresh corpses were being brought in on daily basis.

2 in court over robbery

By Ugochukwu Alaribe

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BA—TWO suspects, identified as Jeremiah Kalu and Onuoha Okpani, have been arraigned before a Chief Magistrate’s Court sitting at Agalaba, Obingwa council area of Abia State for alleged armed robbery and illegal possession of firearms.

Kalu and Okpani, who were arraigned on a fivecount charge, were on May 28, arrested at Osusu Umuikpeghi, Umukalika and Glass Industry roads by the Ohuru Isimiri Police Division. Other members of the gang were said to have escaped.

The suspects could not take their plea as the trial magistrate said the court lacks jurisdiction to hear the matter and ordered that the accused be remanded at the Aba Prison.

He ordered the case file transferred to the Department of Public Prosecution and directed the prosecutor to report to the court on July 14.

Articulated vehicle gutted by fire on Sokoto-Gusau Highway in a lone accident, yesterday. NAN PHOTO.

Another Kogi judge kidnapped

By Boluwaji Obahopo

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OKOJA—A Customary Court of Appeal Judge in Kogi State, Mr. Isaq Usman, was Sunday night kidnapped by gunmen.

This is coming barely a month after the Inspector General of Police, Solomon Arase, sent special police squads to the state to stem the incessant rate of kidnapping in the state in recent time.

Also, the kidnapping activities in the state seemed

to have resurfaced, since the Police Helicopter, detailed for aerial surveillance disappeared.

Justice Usman was said to have been abducted along Itakpe-Kuroko Road in Adavi Local Government while returning to Lokoja from his country home, weekend.

Vanguard gathered further that the suspected kidnappers shot the police orderly, while the driver of the judge received bullet

wounds, before Justice Usman was whisked to an unknown destination.

A source said the slain Police orderly was shot dead when he tried to resist the kidnappers, while the driver is currently receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital in Lokoja.

The information Officer of Kogi State Ministry of Justice, Saqeeb Saeed, confirmed the incident.

Efforts to confirm the death of the Police orderly proved

Man allegedly stabs friend dead over N50 bottled water

By Evelyn Usman

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HE Lagos State Police Command has arrested a man for allegedly stabbing his friend to death during an argument over payment for N50 bottle water at Oke-Ira area, Ogba, Lagos.

The deceased, a commercial motorcyclist identified as Nicolas Goddonu, 46, was said to have visited the suspect, Ekanem Enodan, 29, at the shop, in the company of one of his brothers.

Tragedy struck after the visiting father of five collected bottled water from Enodan’s shop and attempted to hurriedly leave, without paying.

However, the shop owner was alleged to have hit him with a bottle, causing the fleeing motorcyclist to slump.

Apparently thinking he was pretending, Enodan as gathered, collected his bottled water and went inside his shop.

An alarm raised by the commercial motorcyclist’s brother, on noticing that he was not breathing , jolted everyone at the junction. He was subsequently rushed to the Ifako General Hospital, where he was confirmed dead.

There were, however,

conflicting accounts from eyewitnesses as to how the father of five died.

While some of them alleged that the suspect stabbed him to death, others said he merely pushed him, causing him to hit his head on a hard object.

‘They played a lot’

One of them, who gave his name as Ufom Ekanem, a commercial motorcyclist, said: “The deceased and the suspects were friends. That was not the first time he would collect something from the shop and run away.

“But he usually paid later.

At times, the shop owner would be chasing the motorcyclist and at other times he would forcefully drag whatever Goddunu collected from his shop.

“On that fateful day, the shop owner only pushed the okadaman in the chest, while attempting to collect the bottled water from him.

He fell in the process and became unconscious.”

Another eyewitness, Biodun Odufare, said: “The deceased was from Egun, while the suspect is from Cross River State. At about 11p.m., an argument which

everybody concluded was their normal play, began.

“But we suspected that the okadaman was drunk. As he was leaving the shop with the bottled water, the shop owner threw an empty bottle of soft drink at him.

“The bottle hit the kiosk and shattered, with one of its broken parts hitting Nicolas in the chest. He fell and was confiremd dead inhospital.”

abortive as the Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. Willy Aya, was yet to respond to calls at press time.

It will be recalled that two weeks ago, Arase deployed a detachment of Special Squad of SARS from Abuja and stationed a helicopter in Lokoja to combat the menace of the kidnappers in Kogi State.

However, barely one week after the detachment returned to their base, criminal activities resumed.

Tenant bashes c A 26-year-old man, Lucky Aigbogun, appeared in an Ikeja Magistrate’s Court yesterday, for allegedly hitting his caretaker ’s head with a hammer.

Aigbogun, a resident of Shola Martins Street, Agege, Lagos, is facing trial for breach of peace and assault.

The Prosecutor, Inspector Essien Ndarake, told the court that the accused committed the offences on June 1 in Agege

Ondo Catholic Diocese denies paying ransom for kidnapped nuns

By Dayo Johnson

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KURE—THE catholic Diocese of Ondo, Ondo State, yesterday, disclosed that it did not pay any ransom to the kidnappers to secure the release of the two reverend sisters and their driver after seven days in captivity.

The Church did not deny that the abductors requested for N20 million ransom to free the sisters and their driver during negotiation.

The Catholic Bishop of Ondo Diocese, Most Rev Jude Arogundade had also confirmed that the kidnappers had requested for N20 million

ransom.

The two sisters, Rev. Sr. Perpetual Apo and Rev. Sr. Roseline Familade and their driver, Mr. Zwugwa Zibai, were abducted on May 15 on BeninIjebu Ode Expressway.

Speaking with Vanguard yesterday, the church Communication Director, Rev Father Leo Aregbesola, said: “It is not because the church does not have money, but because we have devoted our lives to God and offered ourselves to him.

“It is a contradiction to say that you use a ransom to redeem a ransom. We have given our lives as a ransom so we cannot again pay any ransom.”

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 2016—7

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Female teacher that defiled 4-yr-old girl rearrested

By Esther Onyegbula

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AGOS—POLICE have rearrested the 27-year-old female teacher, Violet Enu, who was said to have absconded after she was granted bail in Lagos for allegedly defiling a female pupil of Light Bearers Private School, located at Isashi area.

Vanguard learned that the mistress, who fled after the case was transferred from Badagry Magistrate’s Court to Apapa Family Court last week, was rearrested, weekend, around Iyana-Ipaja area of Lagos after she returned from Agbor in Delta State.

It will be recalled that, last

Wednesday morning, the victim’s parents were surprised to hear at the police station that the suspect was missing.

Calling on the Inspector General of Police, Solomon Arase, and Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Owoseni Fatai, to intervene

in the case, the victim’s father, Chief Martins, accused his officers of creating an avenue for the suspect to escape.

According to him, police referred the case to Badagry Magistrate Court when they knew that cases bordering on defilement are usually heard at family court.

LINE OF WORK: Personnel and equipment of Julius Berger Plc on site along Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, yesterday. PHOTO: Lamidi Bamidele.

caretaker’s head with hammer over rent Area of Lagos.

He said the accused assaulted his caretaker, Morakinyo Sunday, by beating and hitting his head with a hammer.

Ndarake said: “The accused beat and hit the complainant’s head with hammer which caused him harm.”

Ndarake said the complainant went to Aigbogun’s office to demand for the rent he owed when the incident happened.

He said: “The complainant

approached the accused for his overdue hotel rent, which he refused to pay. Aigbogun locked the complainant up in a room and beat him. He went further to pick hammer and hit Sunday’s head.

“The accused later unlocked his door when he saw blood gushing out of the complainant’s head and allowed him to go.”

Ndarake said the offences contravened Sections 166 and

171 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011, which attracts three years imprisonment on conviction.

The accused, however, pleaded not guilty to the offences.

The magistrate, Mrs E. Kubeinje, granted bail to the accused in the sum of N100,000 with two sureties in like sum.

Kubeinje adjourned the case till June 22 for mention.

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N octogenarian, Madam Belawu Jimoh, yesterday, narrated her experience with the man suspected to be a serial rapist and murderer in Ikorodu area of Lagos State.

The 86 years old woman, who lives in Oke Ota, Ibeshe area of Ikorodu, claimed she was attacked a fortnight ago.

She, however, expressed happiness that her attacker, simply identified as Badoo, was arrested last Sunday after a threeday manhunt.

The suspect, who allegedly raped and murdered a 27-yearold school teacher, Grace Jubreel, in her home in the presence of

her 14-month-old baby in the Ibeshe community in Ikorodu, was nabbed by residents who would have lynched him if not for the intervention of the Rapid Response Squad, RRS, that rescued him.

She was said to have been raped in Oke-Ota on Sunday, June 5, after a trip from her husband's base in Osun State.

Badoo, according to reports, was sighted by some members of the community, who attacked him, and stormed the palace of the traditional ruler insisting that the suspect be handed over to them by RRS. The monarch refused, insisting that he be handed over to the police so that the law

could handle the matter.

According to a resident in the area, the suspect usually inflicted knife injuries on his victims, adding that he uses a handkerchief to clean up his victims after raping them, an indication that he could be using them for rituals.

‘I woke up in hospital’

Speaking with Vanguard yesterday, Madam Belawu said she was asleep when an unidentified man entered her room through her backyard at about 1a.m.

The octogenarian said the rapist threatened to kill her if she does not co-operate.

She said: “I could have

By Perez Brisibe

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G H A R A — SECURITY operatives made up of the Oghara vigilante and men of the Oghara Police Division have arrested a kidnap kingpin, who masterminded the abduction of one Dr. Joseph Akponana Mudiaga of the Department of Anaesthesia at Delta State University Teaching Hospital, DELSUTH, Oghara.

Giving details of the suspect, simply identified as Aaron, a senior officer of the police division disclosed, yesterday, that the suspect was arrested last Wednesday during a foiled kidnap operation at Oghara.

According to the source, “a total of eight members of the gang have so far been arrested and taken to the state police command headquarters, Asaba, for further investigation.”

2 Ecobank staff docked over N14.14m fraud

By Onozure Dania

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AGOS—TWO EcoBank Plc staff, Aghanenu Ikechukwu, 41, and Stephen Nduka, 36, were, yesterday, arraigned before an Igbosere Magistrate’s Court, Lagos, for allegedly defrauding a customer of the bank to the tune of N14.14 million.

The prosecutor, Inspector

How I was raped comatose— 86-yr-old woman

By Bose Adelaja

8 suspected kidnappers arrested in Oghara

shouted, but he threatened to kill me and so I kept quiet.”

Her nose was chopped off by the rapist, who then took her outside to continue with his mission.

She said: “I was conscious initially, but became unconscious after losing much blood. I did not know what transpired thereafter, but I woke up in the hospital where my son later told me I lost my nose to an attack.“ Madam Belawu, who is also nursing bruises on her leg, said the attack had affected her health, adding, “what will be, will be. My health is no longer as it used to be. But I have found solace in God.“

Ingobo Emby, told the court that the defendants and others, who are still at large, committed the alleged offences between September and November 2015.

He said that the defendants, with intent to defraud, forged instruction of one Oluremi Egunjobi Christina, an account holder with the bank.

Emby, alleged that Ikechukwu and others who are still at large on September 24, 2015, did fraudulently convert N10 million from EcoBank account number 274112825, belonging to Rabiu Oladimeji Lawal, to account number 5322000255, belonging to one Okeneme Samuel.

The prosecutor also alleged that the first defendant and others, who are still at large, on September 28, 2015, did fraudulently forge and liquidate the customer ’s investment into account number 5323007058 to the tune of N4.14 million property of the bank.

Magistrate P. A. Adekomaya granted the defendants bail in the sum of N3 million each and with two sureties each in like sum.

The case was adjourned till July 11 for mention.

8—Vanguard, TUESDAY JUNE 14, 2016

FADAMA: World Bank disburses $39m, commences fifth mission

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HE WORLD Bank has so far disbursed $39 million on the Third National Fadama Development Project Additional Financing, AF, as part of concerted efforts to support Nigeria’s agriculture and revenue diversification drive of the Federal Government.

The Bank, in a statement by its Task Team Leader, Dr. Adetunji Oredipe, obtained in Abuja, said it would commence its Fadama Implementation Support Mission from June 10-27, 2016, across eight states of the federation, in conjunction with the federal ministries of finance and agriculture.

The Board of the Bank had approved additional IDA credit of USD 200 million on June 28, 2014 to assist the Federal Government of Nigeria to scale up impacts on the ground and strengthen the development effectiveness of the Third National Fadama Development Project by aligning it more closely with the government a g r i c u l t u r a l programmes.

The additional financing is supporting clusters of farmers in six selected states with comparative advantage and high potential to increase production and productivity of cassava, rice, and sorghum and horticulture value chains and link them to better organized markets.

MTN N1.04trn fine: Govt'll accept N330bn —Minister It’s a blow on fiscal stability of Nigeria —Reps As C’ttee summons AGF, Shittu, NCC next Monday C’ttee member walks out over Shittu, NCC's absence

By Johnbosco Agbakwuru

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BUJA—THE Federal Government, yesterday, told the House of Representatives Committee investigating the alleged unlawful reduction of the N1.04 trillion fine imposed on South African Telecommunication network provider, MTN, to N330 billion that the deal was a settled matter as it received the blessings of the highest level of government.

This came as the House Committee on Communications summoned the Attorney General of the Federation, AGF, and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, the Minister of Communications, Adebayo Shittu, and the Executive Vice Secretary of the National Communications Commission, Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta, to appear before it next Monday to explain circumstances surrounding the new agreement of N330 billion, instead of the initial fine of N1.04 trillion imposed on MTN. The House also said it rejected the new deal between the Federal Government and the MTN as it was a blow on the fiscal stability of the country.

Meanwhile, a member of the Committee, Johnson Agbonayinma, who represents Egor/Ikpoba Okha Federal Constituency of Edo State, on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, walked out on the committee over alleged disrespect of the Minister of Communications, Shittu Adebayo, to the National Assembly.

Agbonayinma also alleged that with what government had accepted, it was obvious that the telecommunications giant, MTN, had decided and imposed on the country what to pay.

Telling the House Committee

HEARING: Chairman House of Representatives Committee on Communication, Hon. Said Akande Fijabi (right), Deputy Chairman, Hon. Chukwuemeka Ujam (middle), and Hon. Ahmed Abu, during a public hearing on MTN fine, at the National Assembly in Abuja, yesterday. Photo: Gbemiga Olamikan that the matter was a settled deal, the Minister of Communications, represented by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Sony Echanu, stated: “I am in a position to confirm to the honourable committee that government has approved the sum of N330 billion as full and final settlement imposed as fine by the NCC. But before the arrival of the Permanent Secretary, which was about one hour behind the scheduled time, Agbonayinma had called on his colleagues to postpone the sitting because neither the Minister nor the Executive Vice Chairman of National Communications Commission, NCC, that imposed the fine on MTN for defaulting on SIM card registration was present.

But as his advice was not heeded to by the other members of the committee, the Edo-born lawmaker decided to stage a walke-out.

However, when the Permanent Secretary arrived to join the Director, Public Affairs of NCC, Tony Ojobo, who had initially told

the committee that he did not have the formal permission of the Executive Vice Chairman of NCC to represent him at the meeting, the meeting commenced.

Chairman of the House Committee on Communications, Saheed Fijabi, said the committee required to be fully availed of all documentary explanations exante, regarding the agreement.

He said: “This decision had generated immense negative perception in the last 72 hours, a major concern with respect to the dictates of Section 7, First Schedule, Nigerian

Capital market key solution of our financial problems —Adeosun

By Emma Ujah, Abuja Bureau Chief

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HE MINISTER of Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun, has said the capital market remained key to providing solutions to the nation’s current financial

Stakeholders kick against ban on importation of tomato paste ....Accuse firms on de-marketing strategy

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BUJA—FOLLOWING allegations of importation of fake and substandard tomato paste from China into Nigeria, a coalition of tomato dealers, under the auspices of Association of Stakeholders in Edible Consumer Products in Nigeria, AECPIN, has faulted the call for a total ban on importation of the product.

According to the group, it is a de-marketing strategy, which will create a monopoly as Nigeria cannot produce enough to satisfy the need for tomatoes in the country.

The group also accused some indigenous companies of misleading the nation, saying

allegations of fake tomato paste imported into the country, was a carefully orchestrated strategy by them to enjoy monopoly.

The AECPIN, made up of 24 companies, in a memorandum submitted to the House of Representatives by its leader, Mr. Ikenna Ameachi, argued: “On the allegations that tomato paste brand in Nigeria are substandard and dangerous for human consumption, we state this is an attempt to cause panic in the market place and was said with malicious intent.

“Tomato does not cause cancer, this much is known; so the terminology, 'cancer causing

tomato,' is misleading. If there are ingredients in tomato paste that are carcinogenic, that is a different issue and it is for NAFDAC to identify those components and ban them.

“To the best of our knowledge, our products do not contain any ingredients that have been found to be carcinogenic or unfit for consumption.”

AECPIN further noted that “ where any imported edible consumer food is found to be dangerous, toxic or harmful to health, it is the sole duty of NAFDAC to recall such goods from the market, seal the warehouses where they are stored and sanction the culpable

Communication Act, 2003.

“Nigerians had expressed immense worry over this development. The public had inundated this committee with petitions and terse outburst, regarding the basis for NCC’s further unilateral action.’

“Most Nigerians feel that this situation carries serious implications of moral hazards, contagion and domino effects.

Economic agents say it presents a damaging blow to the fiscal and monetary stability of the Nigerian federation.

party accordingly. There is no record that this is so.”

The group submitted that “the argument that the tomato may have been smuggled, does not hold water either because if the tomato were smuggled, that means they did not go through screening and a ban on tomato will not address the issue as they have been operating outside the law ab initio.

"If the issue is with smuggling, then it is a wild claim to say that 91 per cent of tomato paste is poisonous as it is impossible for 91 per cent of tomato paste in the market to be smuggled."

problems.

She spoke at a meeting with the Capital Market Master Plan Committee of the Securities and Exchange Commission, in Abuja, yesterday.

Her words: “Many of the financial solutions to the nation’s problems are in the capital market. We need to leverage it; we need to harness it; we need to grow it.

“If you look at it, every country that has grown economically, there has been depth in the capital market.

"So if we want to have real parameter of our growth, one of the matrix and key parameter of that growth must be the depth of the capital market.

“Of course, you know we are running a deficit budget, we only come to borrow using bonds in the capital market, that is one thing.

“There is element of need for the capital market across the globe for infrastructure financing, development of the SMEs sector, where I think we need to provide physical incentive to drive our family businesses."

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 2016—9

Exporters threaten terminal operators over fresh charges L

By Godwin Oritse

AGOS—EXPORTERS have threatened to boycott the nation's ports unless terminal operators withdrew the newlyintroduced container handling charges.

The exporters, under the aegis of Association of Exports Commodity and Manufacturing Freight Forwarders of Nigeria, spoke through its President; Mr Olubunmi Olumekun, in Lagos.

He vowed that exporters would not pay the newly introduced fees of N40,000 and N60,000 on 20-foot and 40-foot containers respectively.

It was gathered that the terminal operators had sent notices of increase of fees from N4,200 per 20-foot container and N6,200 per 40 foot container to N40,000 and N60,000 on 20foot and 40-foot containers to the exporters, notifying them that the new rate would take effect from June 1. ` The newly introduced charge has already taken effect But Olumekun recalled that before port concession, the Nigerian Ports Authority, NPA, was charging N516 wharfage and wharfinger on 20-foot containers, which was later

increased to N2,100.

According to him, the new charges are additional charges to storage fees and renomination fees, being charged, if a container is not shipped “When port concession came, we paid the terminal operators N4, 200 per 20 foot. container and N6,200 per 40 foot containers.

“Now, we are expected to pay N40,000 per 20-foot container and N60,000 per 40-foot container. Is this how we are going to survive and diversify the nation’s economy?” he queried.

Olumekun said the association demanded a review of the

container handling charges to promote commodity export business in the country.

He said exports were scheduled to be delivered within 24 hours and placed on fast track, but noted that the papers were still being delayed for three days.

“Unless the Federal Government intervenes quickly, we would be left with no option than to either shut down the ports or leave the export business.”

He said 40 per cent of exporters had closed shops, adding that 30 per cent of the remaining 60 per cent were smuggling commodities through Cotonou and Niger Republic.

PDP crisis deepens as Sheriff takes over party secretariat Says ‘I remain chairman till 2018'

By Ben Agande

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BUJA—SENATOR Ali Modu Sheriff yesterday took over the secretariat of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, vowing that he remained the authentic chairman of the party till 2018.

This has further plunged the party into deeper crisis after the caretaker committee last week assumed office with much fanfare.

Senator Sheriff, who arrived at the party secretariat as early as 7am, in company of his supporters, was, however, rebuffed from entering the premises until at about 1:20pm when the Divisional Police officer for Wuse Division directed policemen at the gate to open the gate for Senator Sheriff, his aides and a few member of his National Working Committee, NWC, to access the secretariat.

Two truck loads of policemen who had earlier barricaded the party secretariat, withdrew five minutes before Senator Sheriff’s convoy of about seven SUVs was allowed in.

After being allowed in, Senator Sheriff, who addressed the media, said he remained the chairman of the party until 2018, based on a ruling by the Federal High Court in Lagos.

Sheriff said he had restrained himself from taking over the party after the convention of the party in Port Harcourt because he was waiting to see whether the court order against the party would be vacated.

He said: “As you may be aware, we have been facing some challenges, since we put off the National Convention, planned for Port Harcourt last month.

PDP crisis and height of self deceit

‘’I will therefore consider it the height of self deceit for anyone to pretend that the PDP is not in crisis, but also wish to assure you

STOPPED: Acting National Chairman of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Senator Ali Modu Sherrif(middle), being stopped from getting into his office at the party's Headquarters, Wadata Plaza in Abuja, yesterday. Photo: NAN. that, we have been working round the clock to see how we can resolve the matter, without being on the wrong side of the law. ‘’It is public knowledge that, although there was an order by the Federal High Court in Lagos, declaring me the authentic national chairman of PDP, I have kept away from taking steps that could jeopardize the law, following an exparte order from the Federal High Court in Port Harcourt which had given a contradictory order, restraining me from operating as chairman of our party, notwithstanding some further orders from the Federal High Court, Lagos, specifically directing the Inspector General of Police to provide me with adequate security to enable me carry on my duties.

“Now that the ex parte order given in Port Harcourt has since lapsed on June 9 and has not been renewed or extended, it is now my pleasure and privilege to inform you that I have fully resumed as the one and only National Chairman of our great party, the PDP.

“I have all the while kept away from the office in strict compliance with the ex parte order of the port Harcourt Federal High Court which lapsed on June 9 and not because I sanction the illegalities being committed by some members of our party.

“You are all witnesses to the effect that, while the court procedures are still going on, a lot of illegalities; in clear defiance of the law have been taking place in the party, under the guise of a contraption called caretaker Committee.

“I had hoped that, for once, the PDP, which have been accused of promoting impunity and declining lawful orders will purge itself, which informed my decision to obey the courts.

‘Lawful pronouncements by court must be obeyed'

“Permit me to state that lawful pronouncements by courts, no matter how inconvenient they may be are to be obeyed, no matter one’s position. And no person should be seen to be above the pronouncements of competent courts of this country.

“Be that as it may, let me state for the avoidance of doubt, that, beyond the court orders, the PDP operates with a set of laws, which guides the conducts of our affairs."

FG's jobs portal records 400,000 registrations in 36 hours

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By Levinus Nwabughiogu

BUJA—THE Presidency was yesterday in a happy mood when it discovered that the newly launched jobs portal of the Federal Government “N-Power. gov.ng,” has recorded over 400,000 successful registrations within 36 hours.

This was announced by the Job Creation Unit in the Presidency.

But there was an air of puerile feelings around the Presidential Villa that the celebration was misplaced as it would mean celebrating unemployment which should ordinarily put the seat of power on a sober mood.

It would be recalled that the portal was opened for online applications from unemployed Nigerians graduates and non-graduates alike, Sunday, June 12, 2016.

Senior Special Assistant to President Buhari on Job Creation, Mr. Afolabi Imoukhuede, who works in the office of Vice President, Yemi Osinabjo, was quoted in a statement as saying 403,528 applications had been received as at yesterday afternoon.

“We have been impressed by the enthusiastic response to the call for applications. As at noon on Monday, June 13, only 36 hours after the launch of the portal, 403, 528 applicants had successfully registered on the site and were in the middle of completing the application process."

Why we freeze accounts of suspects under investigation —EFCC

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By Soni Daniel

BUJA—THE Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, yesterday, offered explanations on why it has been freezing accounts of suspects being investigated by the antigraft in relations to economic crimes.

The commission’s explanation followed mounting criticisms against the anti-graft agency by aggrieved individuals and corporate organisations for clamping down on their accounts while being investigated for sundry crimes.

Spokesman of the EFCC, Mr. Wilson Uwujaren, said in a

statement in Abuja that the commission was backed by law to freeze the accounts of the suspects and that there was nothing wrong in doing that.

Wilson said the action of the commission was not vindictive but meant to aid the proper investigation of the suspects.

He said: “In recent times, a lot of interest has been generated by the action of the Commission in freezing the accounts of suspects that were investigated or are currently being investigated.

Some commentators have tended to ascribe vindictive motives to this action."

10 — Vanguard, TUESDAY JUNE 14 , 2016

Adegboruwa convinced us to lease controversial property — WITNESS

By Onozure Dania

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AGOS—THE first Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC, prosecution witness, Godwin Adams, yesterday told a Federal High Court sitting at Ikoyi of how a rights activist and lawyer, Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa allegedly convinced him to rent a Lagos state property worth N60million, which is subject of a court order of attachment.

Adegboruwa is standing trial over the alleged offence before Justice Oluremi Oguntoyinbo.

The witness who was led in evidence by the commission’s counsel, Idris Muhammed, is a civil engineer.

Adams said that he was introduced to the defendant by one Mrs Jonathan Udeagbala who claimed Adegboruwa is their family’s counsel.

He said, he and other agents including staff of Shelf Drilling Nigeria Ltd met Mrs Udeagbala in the attempt to rent a property which Udeagbala was occupying then, but that they later discovered that the said property was a subject of litigation and they approached the occupier Mrs Udeagbala to confirm it.

“When we confirmed that the property was a subject of litigation, Mrs Udeagbala took us to her lawyer, Bar. Adegboruwa, to convince us to rent the property.

“Adegboruwa told us then, that there is no problem on the property, he said the case the property was involved in was just between Mr Jonathan Udeagbala and his friend, Mr Leo Okafor and the owner Udeagbala, just want to lease the property out and use the money to settle with his friend, Okafor.

“The property was rented to us at the rate of N 10 million per annum and we paid for five years which made it N50 million for five years, we also paid additional N10 million plus for the renovation of the said property, all the money was paid into Adegboruwa’s account”, he said.

LAGOS ASSEMBLY LECTURE: Sagay, Falana call for true federalism

By Ebun Sessou

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AGOS—RENOWNED constitutional lawyer, Professor Itsay Sagay and human rights lawyer, Mr. Femi Falana have called for true federalism in Nigeria, saying that the way the country is being currently run would stifle development.

Speaking as guest lecturers at the first anniversary of the 8th Lagos State House of Assembly with the theme: “Lagos State In A True Federalism And State Police,” yesterday, the two Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) agreed that Nigeria needs both political and fiscal federalism for rapid development.

Sagay observed in his lecture, that the constitution of Nigeria should be a reflection of its historical development, adding that Nigeria’s federalism is too centralised and is limiting the development of the country.

He maintained that each state ought to enjoy a measure of real autonomy in a true federal structure and that governments have horizontal relationships in a federal system of government.

Sagay stated that in a federal system of government, Lagos State should control the Apapa and Tin Can Island Ports, and that even if they are controlled by the Federal Government, the state should get 13percent derivation.

All these were corroborated by the second guest speaker, Mr. Femi Falana, who added that the local government system as practiced in Nigeria is a bastardisation of federalism.

Falana said the constitution of Nigeria makes it clear that the Federal Government should provide security for the people, but that social security is the most important aspect of security.

Falana commended the Lagos State Government, which he said fought for restructuring in Nigeria through litigation under exgovernor of the state, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He stressed that it was not only

SWEARING-IN: From left; Attorney General & Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Adeniji Kazeem; Deputy Governor, Dr. (Mrs.) Oluranti Adebule; Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode; Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Tunji Bello and Senator Olamilekan Adeola during the swearing-in of Sole Administrators of the 20 Local Governments and 37 Local Council Development Areas in the state, at the Banquet Hall, Lagos House, Ikeja yesterday. in Lagos State that local councils president Olusegun Obasanjo, but were created in the era of former that it was the only state that did

Ambode inaugurates 57 LG bosses, vows grassroots devt the level vibrant and responsive. dividends of good governance

By Olasunkanmi Akoni & Monsur Olowoopejo

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AGOS—GOVERNOR Akinwunmi Ambode has reiterated his commitment to grassroot development noting that his administration would spare nothing to make governance at

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AGOS State Government have signed a Memorandum of Understanding, MOU with investors to build an International Convention Centre in the state.

Governor Akinwunmi Ambode disclosed this yesterday, during a courtesy visit by delegates from the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, LCCI, led by the former minister of industry and President of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Dr. Nike Akande at

Ambode said this yesterday when he swore-in new sole administrators to take charge of the 20 Local Governments and 37 Local Council Development Areas, LCDAs, in the state.

According to him; “The hallmark of any good government is to provide basic services to the communities at the grassroots.

This is the only way the real

ROBBERY: 28-yr-old electrician bags death sentence, 4 yrs after

By AbdulWahab Abdulah & Jane Echewodo

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AGOS—A 28 year old electrician, Muyil Ahmed was yesterday sentenced to death by hanging after he was found guilty of robbery by an Ikeja High

Lagos signs MOU to build International Convention Centre

By Monsur Olowoopejo

not obey the order of Obasanjo to go back to the status quo.

the State House, Alausa, Ikeja.

Though Ambode did not disclose the identity of the investors, but he noted that the facility was part of the state government's effort to provide a suitable atmosphere for businesses to thrive.

According to him, “Just last week, the state government has just signed an MOU to develop international convention centre in the Victoria island axis of the state.

“The facility will be constructed on a 30,000 sq metre space that will help the facility to compete favourably with the same type of convention centre in Dubai.''

Court at gun point four years ago.

Justice Kudirat Jose found Ahmed guilty for robbing his victim, a shop owner to the tune of N180,000 at gun point in Ikorodu area of the state in July 2012.

Ahmed and others at large, had sometime in July 2012 in Ikorodu approached the complainant (names withheld) around 9pm saying they wanted to buy a bottle of whiskey. She was said to have told them that she had closed for business but they insisted on buying from her.

Given her testimony in the court, she said that while she was trying to get the drink, Ahmed pointed a gun at her and demanded for money.

“I willingly gave them N180,000, but Muyil and his gang demanded for more. I tried to escape and it was in the process that I broke my leg and also sustained serious injuries,” she told the court.

The convict and one Azeez Abass were apprehended and charged to court on two counts of armed robbery and conspiracy to commit robbery.

can spread downwards and touch the hearts and minds of its people.”

The governor further said: “Our state is growing so fast that the concept of the rural area will not be applicable to any part of Lagos very soon. Our government is working hard to meet the yearnings of our people who live in what I term semi-urban areas by providing them with services like water, good roads, street lights, efficient refuse collection, cleaning of drainage and roads, primary healthcare, recreational parks and sports facilities to make those areas liveable and economically viable.”

Ambode also said that the appointment of the Sole Administrators to manage the affairs of the Local Governments and Councils was in line with the recent resolution passed by the House of Assembly which recommended that the previous local government committees be resolved.

Ambode also charged the newly sworn in Sole Administrators to see their appointment as a call to service of the people, urging them to carry out their responsibilities efficiently.

Ambode also said that the state government would put in place a strict monitoring, control and feedback process to check excesses and abuse of office, warning that he would not hesitate to replace any Administrator found wanting in the discharge of their duties.

At the event, Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Tunji Bello said the appointment of the Sole Administrators was one of the steps aimed at preparing the Local Government councils for the subsequent elections.

Vanguard, TUESDAY JUNE 14 , 2016 — 11

STRIKE: Ekiti labour leaders go spiritual, declare 3-day fasting

By Rotimi Ojomoyela

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DO-EKITI—IN a bid to hasten the payment of their five months salaries owed by the Governor Ayodele F a y o s e - l e d administration, Ekiti State workers has taken their case to God, as they declare a three-day fasting and prayer for striking workers in the state.

The organised Labour, which have led its members on strike in the last three weeks, also said there was no truth to the rumour making the rounds that the strike had been suspended.

According to a statement made available to newsmen in Ado Ekiti yesterday, the fasting and prayer which begins today will end on Thursday.

The release was signed by the secretaries of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Mr. O. P. Olayemi; Trade Union Congress of Nigeria, Mr. J.A. Adebayo and Joint Negotiating Council, Mr. Oladele Ayodeji.

The social media was awash with rumours yesterday that the trade unions decided to suspend the strike after an exhaustive meeting with the governor, which the source said was held on Sunday.

Yesterday’s statement reads: “In view of the current situation in Ekiti State as regards the ongoing strike embarked on by the entire workers in Ekiti State.

“All workers in Ekiti State are invited to a three-day fasting and prayer from Tuesday to Thursday 16th June. It is expected that this should be replicated at all the 16 Local Government Areas in Ekiti State.”

Speaking in Ado Ekiti on the suspension stunt , the Chairman, Trade Union Congress, Comrade Odunayo Adesoye, said the rumour that the strike had been suspended was far from the truth.

HIJAB: Religious crisis looms in Osun

By Gbenga Olarinoye

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SOGBO—AS students of public primary and secondary schools in Osun State resume today after June 12 public holiday, there are strong indications that Christians and Muslims in the state are poised for serious showdown over the use of hijab by female Muslim students in public schools.

The State Muslim Community had, weekend, urged the Osun State chapter of Christian Association of Nigeria not to throw the state into religious crises but to respect the judgment of the State High Court on the issue.

The Vice President of Osun State Muslim Community, Alhaji Mustapha Olawuyi said it behoves every responsible individual to abide by judgement of court and appealed to Osun CAN to shun lawlessness in the best interest of justice and peace.

A judge of Osun State High Court, Justice Jide Falola had delivered a judgement in favour of a case instituted by Osun State Muslim Community against the State Government on the right of female Muslim students in public

schools in the state to use hijab on their school uniforms.

Osun CAN, however, faulted the judgement and vowed to appeal the matter in the higher court.

CAN also threatened that it would direct Christian students across the state to wear church garments to schools to propagate their faith if Osun State

government implement the judgement of Justice Falola.

But the Youth Wing of Christian Association of Nigeria, Osun State, YOWICAN-OS, yesterday explained it was not against wearing of hijab in Osun public schools but in Christian faithbased schools as being insinuated but insisted Christians will not go

back on wearing of garments to schools beginning from today.

The group said the judgment of Justice Jide Falola that legitimises wearing of Hijab in public schools was in direct opposition to the mutual agreement leaders of National Inter-Religious Council, NIREC, Osun State chapter, reached on the issue.

LECTURE: Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, the guest speaker (left) and Chief Segun Osunkeye, special guest addressing members during the lecture oganised by To r c h b e a r e r s Society of Archbishop Vining Memorial Church Cathedal, G R A, Ikeja, Lagos. Photo by Diran Oshe

Olubadan appeals to Oyo workers as strike continues

By Ola Ajayi

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BADAN—THE Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Saliu

Develop human resource for economic growth — TINUBU

By Oboh Agbonkhese

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AGOS—A virile human resource development scheme is essential to developing the full economic value in a society, which makes skills acquisition integral to a nation’s growth.

These were the sentiments expressed by Senator Oluremi Tinubu (APC, Lagos Central), at the graduation of 50 constituents trained in photography, video recording, catering, small chops, mobile phones repair, hairdressing, barbing and smoked fish business in a communitybased training scheme organised by her office in collaboration with the National Directorate of Employment, NDE. According to Tinubu, “The Federal Government is passionate about youth empowerment. But the task is for everyone. That is why government should fund and empower NDE so that more of this kind of collaboration will be executed for full economic growth.”

Akanmu Adetunji, Aje Ogungunniso 1 has appealed to the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress and all other labour unions in the state to see reason with the state government and find amicable solutions to the on-going industrial impasse.

Oba Adetunji made this call yesterday during the yearly Ramadan Tafsir at his Popoyemoja, Ibadan Palace.

The first class monarch reasoned that dialogue has been adjudged the best solution to the crisis the world over, saying violence doesn’t solve crisis while patience doesn’t spoil anything.

He, however, called on the state government to see to the demand of the labour union and try to shift grounds where necessary.

Meanwhile, NLC is set to resume the protest today over some education policies the state government has been trying to introduce.

The policy which the government describes as a ‘participatory exercise’ is being touted by the Nigeria Union of Teachers in the state as commercialisation of education in the state.

All the explanations by the government that the policy would affect only 30 schools out of 631 schools in the state fell on deaf ears.

The protest, as usual, will start from the NLC office, Agodi gate.

Ajimobi urges labour to embrace dialogue, end strike

Meantime, the Oyo State governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, has appealed to labour leaders to call off the ongoing strike to give

room for dialogue, failing which he said the state might be forced to apply the no work no pay rule after today.

The governor made the appeal in an interview with Government House correspondents shortly after featuring on a live Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State television programme, Eyi Ara, in Ibadan, on Sunday.

Ajimobi said the industrial

action was ill-advised since labour had no dispute with the government prior to the strike nor gave government any ultimatum in compliance with labour laws.

He said it had become imperative for the labour leaders to call off the strike to enable those he called the committed and hard working among the workers to resume work in their own interest and the larger interest of the state.

Prosecute or release Fani-Kayode, Afenifere tells EFCC by collecting money for campaign

By Dapo Akinrefon

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AGOS—PAN-YORUBA socio-political organisation, Afenifere has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, to either charge to court or set free former Minister of Aviation and Campaign Director of the Goodluck Jonathan Campaign, Mr Femi Fani-Kayode.

Fani-Kayode is being docked by the anti-graft commission for alleged corruption.

In a statement by Afenifere’s National Publicity Secretary, Mr Yinka Odumakin, the group called for the “immediate release of Femi Fani-Kayode who will be clocking five weeks in EFCC cell on Wednesday.”

The statement reads: “We are being told that EFCC is planning to get another detention order to continue his incarceration. We are at a loss as to why EFCC has failed to announce to the whole world that he committed a crime

and hold him for five weeks without charging him to court.''

12—Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 2016

Niger Delta Avengers now ready for dialogue with FG •FG negotiators may strike deal with Tompolo

By Emma Amaize,

Regional Editor, SouthSouth Egufe Yafugborhi & Perez Brisibe

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ARRI—NIGER Delta Avengers NDA , yesterday, agreed to dialogue with the Federal Government, suspending its “Operation Red Economy,” which saw the militant group almost crippling the oil industry since February, when it commenced attacks on oil and gas installations in the Niger Delta region.

Spokesperson of the group, Brig General Murdoch Agbinibo, in a statement, said: “The high command of the NDA is using this medium to restate that there are no new items to put on the table for dialogue. We only want a genuine attitude and conducive atmosphere that will make us commit to any proposed dialogue and lasting peace talk.

“We want the Federal Government to commit member states of the multinational oil corporations to commit independent mediators to this proposed dialogue. We believe that it is only such environment that will engender genuine dialogue that will be aimed at setting up a framework for achieving the short, medium and long term demands of the Niger Delta towards de-escalating this conflict and bring about a lasting peace.

“The NDA high command is restating commitment to attack the interest of oil corporations and international refineries operators that bring in vessels to the Niger Delta territory to buy oil that every successive government has refused to use the proceeds towards any development in the region since 1958. “ If they refuse to heed our advice, it will result to sinking of two of their mother vessels as an example to others. They should not undertake any repair of pipeline, oil and gas facilities that have been damaged or attacked by our forces during this period of “Operation Red Economy” until and/or after the dialogue.”

Secret dialogue

Meanwhile, negotiators who are discreetly dialoguing with militant leaders and groups in the Niger Delta on behalf of the

Federal Government to end bombing of oil and gas facilities.

Vanguard have learned that the negotiators have made considerable inroad, and wwere almost finalizing an accord with hunted ex-militant leader, Government Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo, to help track down the perpetrators.

A source close to Tompolo, confided in Vanguard, yesterday, that, “It is true the negotiators are in contact with Tompolo, they have been discussing, but the point is clear, Tompolo is not the one responsible for the bombings. The truth is that they know his capacity and reached out to him to help them to stop the bombings and bring peace to the region.

“Of course, you know about the case of ex-militant leader, late General John Togo, in 2004. It was Tompolo that assisted the Joint Task Force, JTF, under the command of BrigGeneral Elias Zamani to apprehend him.

“The truth is that Tompolo arrested and handed him over to the JTF because he refused to heed several warnings to stop his unlawful activities. It is the same role that they are appealing to him to play because they know his stand and what he can do.”

'We’re talking with Tompolo'

A Federal Government official familiar with the discussion with Tompolo and other militant groups

confirmed that the negotiators were talking with Tompolo and others, but declined to give details of the discussions.

He said: “We are making progress, we hope to end the attacks on iol facilities soon, but we have not been able to establish contact with the actual bombers and their leaders. What I can tell you is that many militant groups are willing to give up their violent activities following our intervention in the next few days.”

It will be recalled that Reformed Egbesu Boys severed relations with Niger Delta Avengers over its defiant stand on ‘no negotiation’ unilaterally declaring a ceasefire, last Saturday.

MEND on Sunday, raised a provisional Aaron Team 2 to dialogue with the Federal Government, urging the Niger Delta Avengers to see reason, as it treaded same path in the past and knows better now.

The Joint Niger Delta Liberation Force, JNDLF also rebuffed Avengers, last Friday, and entered into dialogue with government.

I am uninformed about any discussion with Tompolo — Annkio Briggs

A respected leader of the Niger Delta struggle for human rights and environmental justice, Annkio Briggs, who spoke to Vanguard on phone on the development, yesterday, said she was not aware if any negotiating teamconferredwithTompoloand the outcome of their discussion.

Tension as CAN holds election

By Sam Eyoboka

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BUJA—THE two-day meeting of the National Executive Council of the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN scheduled for today and tomorrow to elect a successor for the outgoing national president, Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, will go ahead despite rumours that certain individuals were planning to arrest some of the leaders to forestall the elections.

At the time of this report, there were rumours of plans to disrupt the exercise through the arrest of the outgoing Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, the National General Secretary of CAN,

Rev. Musa Asake, and the body’s Director of National Issues, Elder Sunday Oibe, on trumped-up charges by certain aggrieved parties in the contest leading to today’s exercise.

Feelers reaching Vanguard last night from Abuja indicated that tension was mounting as plainclothed security officers were said to be on the trail of the CAN leaders, even as delegates from the five different blocs had started arriving Abuja for the scheduled NEC meeting, which will determine the next direction of the umbrella body of Christiansm in the country.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 2016—13

Edo'll build roads even if oil price crashes to zero dollars—OSHIOMHOLE

By Simon Ebegbulem ENIN CITY—GOVERNOR Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State, has said that his administration will not stop work on ongoing road projects in the state and will construct new ones even if the price of crude oil crashes to zero dollars.

Speaking at the flag-off of the 10-km Uzebba-Okpuje-Okabhor Road in Owan West Local Government Area of the state, yesterday, Oshiomhole said: “Like I promised during the electioneering campaign in 2007, I said I have not come to join people to lament the misrule of PDP. I have not come to shed tears about missed opportunities. I have come together with my colleagues on a rescue mission, to show that whatever they say was not possible, to demonstrate that it is possible and that everything they refused to do, we will try to do them.

“We started by building schools, and I am sure in this local government, you have what they now call the red roof schools. I

B

am sure in a couple of places, we have also sunk boreholes, and I am sure some of your sons and daughters who are working for the Edo State Government, their salaries for May have been

paid, and the wage has even been increased.

“I can assure you it has been tough, and it is still tough. It might get even tougher in the very near future. But there is

nothing we have started in this state under my stewardship that we have abandoned. And therefore, this one is yet another project that we will complete. It will not be abandoned. Even if oil price crashes to zero, this road will be done.”

VISIT: From left: Armayau Abubakar, former Deputy Governor of Taraba State; Lucky Imasuen, former Deputy Governor of Edo State, Abdulmalik Muhammed, former Deputy Governor of Bauchi State, and Governor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State, during a visit of Forum of Former Deputy Governors to the Governor in Benin, yesterday.

Tension as oil spill destroys Delta community

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By OchukoAkuopha

LEH—THERE is tension in Idheze community, Isoko South Local Government Area, Delta State, following an oil spill from a major Nigeria Agip Oil Company, NAOC pipeline, which wreaked havoc in the area.

The spillage which started at 12 midnight, resulted in a serious fire outbreak, destroying farmlands and economic crops in the community.

The cause of the spill was still hazy at press time as it could not be ascertained whether it was due to equipment failure or vandalism.

Speaking with Vanguard on the development, President General of the community, Mr. Samson Afeme said, “We woke up in the mid-night to see people running in different directions as a result of the spillage and because it was late in the night, the magnitude was very high. There was nothing we could do at that time.

“We didn’t even know the direction it was going, so we alerted Agip as well the fire fighters of the Isoko South council, but much could not be done until the dawn, but at that time, much harm had been done, but no life was lost."

Dialogue only solution to N-Delta challenges —Rev Eke

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By Gabriel Olawale

SABA—THE President of African Peace Am bassadors Network Inc. and immediate past Commissioner on the Board of Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission, DESOPADEC, Reverend Chukwudi Eke has urged the people of Niger Delta to embrace dialogue as they have already been able to successfully draw the attention of the international community to the deplorable conditions in the region.

Eke who applauded the President Buhari-led administration for what he described as “the bold, groundbreaking and epoch-making steps in launching the clean-up of the waste and pollutions in Ogoni land," said that the decision was timely and good step in right direction. “This action will help in saving the Niger-Delta ecosystem as we implore all stakeholders in the clean-up process to support efforts of the Federal Government to bring lasting solutions to the environmental threats in Ogoni and other lands of the Niger-Delta.

FG to invest $7bn in A-Ibom

By Chioma Onuegbu YO—THE Federal Government has said that the biggest investments in the petroleum sector in the country will be in Akwa Ibom State. Minister of State, Petroleum Resources, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, said that over $7 billion had been earmarked for the projects following the peaceful atmosphere that the state enjoys.

Kachikwu at a Town Hall meeting organised by the Federal Ministry of Information and Culture for the South-South zone, noted that the Federal Government had worked out a modalities with the Independent Power Plant, IPP, where the IPP will get 500 megawatts of electricity from ExxonMobil, including gas pipelines to enable government take gas from production fields back to the plants.

According to him, there are some other major investments besides methanol plants, which will be located in the state. “Let me say that some of the biggest investments that arecomingintopetroleumsectorwill be in Akwa Ibom. Right now, we are finalising the IPP project with Mobil whichwillproduce500megawattsof electricity," he said.

“We are also finalising the gas pipeline which will enable us take gas from production field back to those facilities.

Also, a major investor is coming in to work with the NNPC to develop some facilities, including a methanol plant."

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‘Leave Kachikwu out of pipeline security contract'

By TareYoudeowei SABA—AN oil monitoring group, Niger Delta Indigenous Movement For Radical Change, NDIMRC, has warned blackmailers of the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr Ibe Kachikwu over Pipeline Security Contract, to desist forthwith.

An online report had accused Kachikwu of squandering millions of dollars on pipeline security.

Reacting, NDIMRC in a statement by its President, Nelly Emma, absolved the minister of the accusations levelled against him.

The Minister, according to the group was working with relevant stakeholders in the Niger Delta region to end vandalisation of oil pipelines,addingthathewouldsoon deploy modern technology to bury pipelines out of the reach of vandals.

The group said: “We are surprised that some stakeholders in the oil and gas industry are at it again, they have refused to see anything good inthePetroleumResourcesMinister of State."

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14—Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 2016

N15bn in Zenith Bank for set-top boxes — MBAH

Invest pension funds on infrastructure, experts tell FG

By Rosemary Onuoha

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LTHOUGH over N3.7 trillion, representing 67.5 percent of the total pension fund assets, are invested in Federal Government securities, the massive infrastructural deficit in the country is causing stakeholders in the industry to call for direct investment of the assets into infrastructure bonds or funds.

Pension assets at March 2016 stood at N5.5 trillion.

However, over half of the pension assets are invested in Federal Government securities. Experts are of the opinion that government should begin to give account on how it utilised money realised from securities it issued out.

Mr. Boniface Okezie, President of Progressive Shareholders Association of Nigeria, told Vanguard that since such a huge chunk of the pension fund is invested in securities yet the infrastructure deficit in the country is over 60 percent, there should be conscious efforts to channel the funds into infrastructure bonds or fund, specifically created for infrastructural development.

By Soni Daniel, Northern Region Editor

MEETING: From left— Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola (middle), flanked by Minister of State in the ministry, Mustapha Shehuri (left) and Permanent Secretary, Power, Mr. Louis Edozien, at the sixth monthly meeting of the minister with sectoral participants in the power sector at the Kano Electricity Distribution Company, Kombotso Transmission Station, Kano State, yesterday.

FG records N725bn deficit in first quarter

By Favour Nnabugwu & Michael Eboh

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BUJA—THE Federal Government recorded a deficit of N725.18 billion in its fiscal operations in the first quarter of 2016, according to data released yesterday by the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN. Nigeria also earned $1.02 billion from its non-oil exports during the period, and this represents an increase of 38.6 percent or $393.7 million (N78.7bn) over the amount earned in the same period of

Don’t fast yourself to death FASTING, basically serves three major purposes: to feel the pangs of hunger in order to have sympathy for the poor and needy; to curb the human frailty and develop utter dependence on Allah; and, above all, to reduce worldly distractions and focus more on closeness to Allah.

However, there are those who are exempted from fasting. Allah has only enjoined fasting upon those who are able to observe it.

He does not intend sufferings for His servants. Those who are exempted are the sick, the traveller, the pregnant and nursing mother, the aged and the insane.

Allah says: “And whoever is ill or on a journey— then an equal number of other days. Allah intends for you ease and does not intend for you hardship and [wants] for you to complete the period and to glorify Allah for that [to] which He has guided you; and perhaps you will be grateful.”

(Q2:185) The verse is so apt. It permits the sick person, who fears that fasting may aggravate his

condition, make it worse or slow down his recovery or cause more damage to his body, not to fast.

In fact, it is sunnah for him to fast, because that may lead to his death. So, he has to be cautious and protect himself.

This is because, abstinence from food and drink for long hours cause dehydration.

Therefore, the blood sugar level drops. The heart slows and blood pressure is reduced.

Glycogen is pulled from the muscle causing some weakness.

This may be dangerous for any sick person especially those who are diabetic, or those with low sugar level. Just as the Quran harps on this, it is also in tandem with the general medical advice.

You cannot impress Allah, if your state of health cannot go without food or drink, then leave it out.

Allah who created us knows everything about us. He intends no hardship on us.

Again, it should be noted that those who are unable to fast fall into two categories: those who are temporarily unable to fast and those who are permanently

2015.

The CBN, in its Economic Report for the First Quarter of 2016, attributed the deficit to an expenditure of N1.23 trillion, over retained earnings of N505.1 billion in the period under review.

The deficit, the report said, was a result of a decline in oil and non-oil revenues and a rise in capital expenditure in the quarter under review.

The dip in oil earnings was attributed to a sharp drop in oil and gas export, low price of crude oil in the international market and the persistent unable to do so.

Those who are temporarily unable to fast are those who have the hope that what is preventing them from fasting will cease, and they will be able to fast at a later date. This is what is mentioned in the verse above. So the one who is temporarily unable to fast should wait until the illness that is preventing him from fasting heals, then he should make up the fast.

Anyone with chronic illness or who is permanently sick and are unable to fast, and there is no hope that his condition may improve to be able to fast, such Muslim has been permitted not to fast in Ramadan and will not fast at a later date but he will have to feed the poor to compensate for the missed fast.

He will have to feed one poor person for each day that he does not fast.

Ramadan timing for today City Fajr Iftar/Maghrib Abuja 4:47am 6:50pm Ibadan 5:07am 7:02pm Ilesha 5:03am 7:05pm Ilorin 5:00am 7:00pm Kano 4:36am 6:51pm Lagos 5:10am 7:03pm Asaba 4:56am 6:47pm Zaria 4:42am 6:52pm Maiduguri 4:18 6:33pm Jalingo 4:32am 6:35pm

Please note that at Farj time, sahuur ends and Magrib time, Iftar, begins.

disruption in petroleum export due to vandalism and production shut-ins.

According to the report, the estimated fiscal deficit of N725.18 billion indicated an increase of 178.6 percent above the 2015 provisional quarterly budget deficit of N260.25 billion.

The CBN also stated that the Federal Government’s expenditure for the first quarter was 3.4 percent higher than the provisional quarterly budget estimate, but was below level in the fourth quarter of 2015 by 20.3 percent.

Specifically, breakdown of total expenditure showed that recurrent expenditure accounted for 72.8 percent of the total, while capital and statutory transfers accounted for 18 and 9.2 percent, respectively.

In the recurrent expenditure aspect, the report noted that non-debt component accounted for 72.7 percent, while debt service payments accounted for the balance of 27.3 percent.

Using provisional data, CBN further stated that the Federal Government’s retained revenue for the first quarter of 2016, of N505.07 billion was below the receipts in the fourth quarter of 2015 by 37.5 percent.

Giving a breakdown of government’s total revenue, the report disclosed that Federation Account accounted for 81.6 percent of the total, while Independent Revenue, Value Added Tax, VAT, and others, comprising the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC’s Refund and Exchange Gain, accounted for 8.0, 5.6 and 4.8 percent, respectively.

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BUJA—MANY months after investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, the immediate past Director-General of the National Broadcasting Commission, NBC, Mr. Emeka Mbah, has cleared the air on the N15 billion the commission lodged with the Zenith Bank as collateral for the supply of set-top boxes for the commencement of digital broadcasting in the country.

Mba, who had been reporting to EFCC operatives since the beginning of this year, told Vanguard in Abuja that there was no attempt whatsoever to hide N15 billion for either himself or any member of the dissolved board of NBC. According to Mba, the decision to set aside the N15 billion out of the N34 billion, for which the commission sold its radio spectrum to MTN, was to convince the 13 set-top box contractors to go ahead with the production and supply of the tools so as not to derail the deadline set by the I n t e r n a t i o n a l Telecommuni-cations Union, ITU. Mba said contrary to allegations that the money was hidden away by him, the truth remained that the management and board of NBC entered into a Memorandum of Understanding, MoU, with Zenith Bank to keep the money and disburse to the set-top box contractors to deliver the 1.5 million pieces ordered by the commission.

He said: “We could not manufacture the over 10 million set-top boxes, which the Federal Government ordered, and we had to engage the 13 companies to do that and supply.

“We allocated the 1.5 million initially ordered among the five companies and asked Zenith to guarantee and pay the com-panies as they make supply.”

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 2016—15

Angry UNN students shut down campus

By Chinedu Adonu

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NUGU—ANGRY students of University of Nigeria Nsukka, UNN, Enugu Campus have shut down the school.

Lectures were not holding for about one week and the nonacademic staff were not allowed to work in their offices.

The angry students were demonstrating against poor academic environment. The students, who turned out in their numbers at the campus gate to protest poor academic environment, yesterday, would not allow the staff to move in or out as security officers lock ed the gate.

The students, it was learned, had not had steady power supply for three months and had relied on generator and intermittent power supply from EEDC. Apart from epileptic power supply or lack of it, the students complained that their hostels stank because they lacked water and they buy a bucket for N30.00.

The students who spoke to Vanguard, equally lamented that they lacked enough accommodation as too many students were pitched in a room and they slept on mattresses long overdue for change. They equally paid for Wi fi services but they were not enjoying it.

Overwhelmed by these

grievances,the protesting students carried placards that read: 'How can we save lives without light, light is our right, no light no lectures.'

Speaking with Vanguard, the students said that, "Life has not been easy .Our mattresses are bad. We are too many in a room.

"We paid for Wi fi, but we are not enjoying it,” they pointed

out in unison.

"We are demonstrating against the school management. We don’t want any movement in the school," the angry students declared as they blocked the entrance, chanting songs.

The public relations officer of the university, Mr. Gabriel Onah, in a telephone interview, said he was at a meeting at the time of

filing this report and would react afterwards on the issue.

However, a lecturer, who refused to disclose his name, told Vanguard that the students were doing the right thing.

“The students are right. The school management is not helping matters. They will not listen. Now for one week, there have been no lectures,” he said.

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NUGU—THE Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, yesterday, tightened its noose on the immediate former Governor of Enugu State, Mr. Sullivan Chime in connection with N24 billion cash allegedly disbursed by Fidelity Bank on the instruction of former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Diezani AlisonMadueke during the re-

VISIT: Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, (left), in a handshake with the Deputy President, Dublin City University, Ireland, Prof. Daire Keogh, while Prof. Brien Ruene of the same university looks on, during a courtesy visit by a delegation from the Irish University to Government House, Enugu, weekend.

election bid of former President Goodluck Jonathan.

Chime drove himself to the EFCC’s zonal office in Enugu in an SUV with registration number ENU CV 960 ENU, clad in brown native suit in the company of his orderly, one Tony, whom Chime said he handed over the N450 million for safe keeping.

The former governor arrived the anti-graft commission’s office at exactly 10:58a.m.

This was even as fiery Enugu-based lawyer, Ray

Nnaji, had, demanded from the EFCC, the prosecution of former Governor Sullivan Chime.

Before Chime’s arrival, one of his close aides, Ikeji Asogwa, immediate former Chairman of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Enugu State chapter, equally reported yesterday at the Commission in a vehicle marked ENU 06D-01EN. It was gathered that their appearances were in keeping with the conditions of

Biafra Killings: IPOB Spain to pay hospital bills of wounded members

By Chimaobi Nwaiwu

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N E W I — T H E Directorate of States, Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Spain, has requested doctors in South South and South East to treat every victim of Biafra day celebrations and forward the bill to IPOB headquarters in Spain for immediate settlement.

In a statement, the Head of the Directorate of States in Victoria Spain, Mr. Uchenna Asiegbu, urged the doctors not to let non-deposit of initial

.Inaugurates Governing Council

By Francis Igata

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N24bn poll cash: EFCC tightens noose on ex-Gov Chime

By Francis Igata

Ugwuanyi appoints new Rector for IMT

money as demanded by doctors in their hospitals to be a reason to deny treatment to those that needed it.

“IPOB will pay the hospital bill of every injured Biafran in this quest for justice, from contributions from family members all over the world.

We don’t want any politician to contribute to the treatment of those they ordered to be shot on sight.

“Let no family member of IPOB accept any dime from Governor Willie Obiano or any other Nigerian politician.

IPOB is equal to every task laid before it and will never

allow its members and nonmembers who were wounded by gun toting soldiers to suffer.

“IPOB is using this opportunity to thank all the medical doctors and nurses in Biafraland for their courage and support during the remembrance day celebration, for the rescue of our members and brothers, who escaped being felled by the lawless soldiers, who have decided to abandon their job of protecting Nigeria against external aggression to pursue nonviolent IPOB and other Biafra agitators in Nigeria,” he said.

administrative bail granted them last week Monday, by the commission.

Mr. Charles Egumgbe, who also served in Chime’s government and was the chairman of the PDP campaign organization, also showed up at 10:10a.m. for interrogation.

Egumgbe was the pioneer chairman of the PDP in Enugu State.

It would be re-called that the EFCC had last Wednesday, grilled Chime for allegedly receiving N450m out of the $115m, N23 billion, disbursed by the former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Diezani AlisonMadueke, during the build-up to the 2015 presidential election.

During the interrogation, the ex-governor was said to have told detectives that he handed over the money to the secretary of the campaign office, Mrs. Rita Mba, who was also the state’s Commissioner for Special Duties and Inter-Government Affairs then.

Chime was quoted as saying that the money was brought by two of his former commissioners, Joe Nmamnel and Mrs. Rita Mba, in the company of PDP, Enugu State chairman, Ikeji Asogwa, and Prof. Osita Ogbu.

N U G U — GOVERNOR Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu state, weekend, appointed Professor Augustine Uchechukwu Nweze, as the new rector of the state-owned Institute of Management and Technology, IMT, just as the new Governing Council of the foremost polytechnic was inaugurated.

Inaugurating the council at the Executive Council chambers, Government House, Enugu, Governor Ugwuanyi said: “The reconstitution of the council was made pursuant to Section 5 (1) of the Institute of Management and Technology Law Cap 97, Revised Laws of Enugu State of Nigeria, 2004.

Those appointed into the new council include Dr. Festus Uzor , chairman; Dr. Emmanuel Igiligi, Pharmacist Cyril Aniwike, Mr. David Onwuegbu, and Prof. Gabriel O. Agbo.

Anambra central poll: Akirika accuses INEC of bias

By Enyim Enyim

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NITSHA—A chieftain of the All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, Mr. Okoli Akirika, yesterday, accused the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, of bias in the delay to conduct the Anambra Central senatorial zone election.

Akirika, a former Commissioner for Lands and state secretary of the party, while addressing newsmen on the issue, said the people of the zone had suffered unquantifiable losses due to nonrepresentation in the national assembly.

“Apart from depriving the constituents of the right to representation in the national assembly, it is also occasioning substantial and irredeemable losses to the people.

16—Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 2016

Okorocha’s intention not to hijack Ohanaeze Ndigbo — Women Wing

By Innocent Onoja

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NEWI—THE apex I g b o socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Women wing weekend, expressed displeasure over the press statement credited to the President of Ohanaeze youth wing, Okechukwu Isiguzoro, which alleged that Governor Rochas Okorocha was plotting to hijack the apex Igbo umbrella union for his alleged 2019 political ambition, and that the ongoing construction at the secretariat at 7, Park Avenue, GRA, Enugu,was part of the carrot dangled at the

leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo headed by Chief Gary Enwo-Igariwey.

Leader of Ohanaeze women wing worldwide, Mrs. Calista Adimachukwu in a statement posited that her investigations showed that the so-called press statement was the work of the enemies and detractors of Ndigbo and was fabricated to tarnish the image of Ohanaeze Ndigbo and Governor Okorocha.

“To the best of my knowledge, that statement was forged and did not emanate from the Ohanaeze youth president.

The truth of the matter is that there was a crisis in Ohanaeze which led to the formation of

Chief Ralph Obioha’s faction.

The crisis became so much at some point, which made me to decide to do something about it as a mother. I had to visit some prominent Igbo sons who could reconcile the conflicting groups including Governor Okorocha, who was the only person that responded because of his love for the Igbo.

“When I paid him (Okorocha) a visit, I gave him kolanut and begged him to do something about the Ohanaeze Ndigbo crisis which he positively accepted.

“Governor Okorocha’s involvement in the reconciliation brought peace and harmony to the conflicting

parties. Prior to that day, Okorocha was never interested in the affairs of Ohanaeze Ndigbo. We were the ones that begged him to do something meaningful for Ohanaeze Ndigbo. It was as result of our effort that he decided to construct a

secretariat for Ohanaeze Ndigbo with his personal money, as a sign of goodwill and not because he was interested in 2019 presidential election. Besides, he has made it known that he is not interested in the 2019 presidential election."

Abakaliki residents lament damages caused by flood

By Peter Okutu

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B A K A L I K I — RESIDENTS of Ebonyi state have continued to lament following last weekend’s heavy downpour in the State as the management of a fish farm in

Abakaliki, the state capital yesterday said it lost over 4,000 fishes resulting from the natural disaster.

Conducting Vanguard around the Oluchika Nigeria Limited Fish Farm in Abakaliki, the Manager, Mr. Onwe David said rain wreaked havoc in the farm.

Also, a farmer, Paul Nwogiji said the flood damaged his crops after he had borrowed a huge amount of money to invest.

According to the Manager of the fish farm, “We lost over 4000 fishes to the flood.The damage is so much that we are feeling very terrible.”

Enugu govt raises alarm over traffic light vandalism

By Francis Igata

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NUGU—THE Enugu State government has raised alarm over the vandalism of equipment controlling the traffic light system at Ani Street junction, Enugu by yet-to-be identifed hoodlums, resulting in temporary shutdown of the traffic light system along UNEC road.

A statement by the state Commissioner for Transport, Mr. Vitus Okechi stated that the alarm became necessary in view of the need to explain to the public especially road users the cause of the temporary shutdown of the traffic control light system on the said road.

Okechi added that the explanation would also cause the motorists to appreciate the predicament of the government in maintaining the operation of traffic control light system in the state, despite the current economic challenges in the country.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 14 14, 2016—17

Rochas Okorocha and the ragged-trousered philanthropists

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HEN you think you have seen the ultimate in thoughtless act in Nigeria someone just emerges from the corner to raise the bar.This is what the excitable governor of Imo state,Rochas Okorocha did in the news item I reproduce below: "Okorocha to establish college in Bauchi to help the poor" -News "Governor Rochas Okorocha of Imo state has concluded plans to establish the Rochas Foundation College in Bauchi State as a way of providing education to the poor and less privileged.

Leadership report that the governor of Imo state said it was his mission to continue the furtherance of education in the country.

The governor made this pledge at the ceremony marking part of the celebrations for the 40th anniversary of the creation of Imo State.

The governor was issued with a certificate of occupancy to quicken the actualisation of the project by the governor of Bauchi state, Mohammed Abubakar.

Governor Abubakar said the investment in education was the best way to produce good leaders of tomorrow.

During the ceremony, members of the cabinet of the governor of Imo state gave account of their performance during their five years in service.

Okorocha reminded his colleagues in the 36 states of the federation that it is a privilege to be elected to serve the people and so they should strive to leave good legacies for the electorate.

“I am here for the glory of the job and I am poised to change the sordid history of the people and for any governor or president to succeed in office, he must think outside the box”.

The governor reiterated his resolution to move the state forward and urged Nigeria to have hope for a better tomorrow just as their leaders must have positive visions for a greater Nigeria.

Chief John Oyegun who is the chairman of the All Progressives Congress applauded Governor Okorocha for his performance and urged the people of Imo to continue to support the governor so that he can continue with his projects.

Mallam Nasir el-Rufai who was also in attendance described C M Y K

Governor Rochas Okorocha Okorocha as "the Nostrademus of the South East” who saw tomorrow and joined the APC for the betterment of the Igbo" About 28 years ago I read The Ragged-Trousered Philanthropists by Robert Tressell, the nom-de-plume of Robert Noonan, a house painter.

The illegitimate son of Mary Ann Noonan and Samuel Croker (a retired magistrate) who was born in Dublin in 1870 and settled in England in 1901 after a short spell living and working in South Africa. He chose the pen name Tressell in reference to the

Ostensibly because he is dying to play second fiddle in 2019,this "Nostradamus" who cannot yet see a good tomorrow for the people of Imo state is now seeing vision for those who have not made up their minds if they want to go to school trestle table, an important part of his kit as a painter and decorator. Based on his own experiences of poverty, exploitation, and his terror that he and his daughter Kathleen — whom he was raising alone — would be consigned to the workhouse if he became ill, Noonan embarked on a detailed

and scathing analysis of the relationship between workingclass people and their employers. The "philanthropists" of the title are the workers who, in Noonan's view, acquiesce in their own exploitation in the interests of their bosses.

Clearly frustrated at the refusal of his contemporaries to recognise the inequity and iniquity of society, Tressell's cast of hypocritical Christians, exploitative capitalists and corrupt councillors provide a backdrop for his main target — the workers who think that a better life is "not for the likes of them". Hence the title of the book; Tressell paints the workers as "philanthropists" who throw themselves into back-breaking work for poverty wages in order to generate profit for their masters.

The hero of the book, Frank Owen, is a socialist who believes that the capitalist system is the real source of the poverty he sees all around him. In vain he tries to convince his fellow workers of his world view, but finds that their education has trained them to distrust their own thoughts and to rely on those of their "betters". Much of the book consists of conversations between Owen and the others, or more often of lectures by Owen in the face of their jeering; this was presumably based on Tressell's own experiences.

Okorocha is making the people of Imo to relieve the experience of the subjects of Tressell book the only difference being that he is taking advantage of his state to service the "poor" of Bauchi in this deranged philanthropy thousands of kilometres away

from the state he has governed for five years without a remarkable story to tell.

On May Day this year an Igbo socio-cultural group, Ndigbo Unity Forum issued an ultimatum to the governor to pay backlog of workers salaries in spite of bail out funds received from the Federal Government.

According to Vanguard report of May 1, 2016,the President of the forum, Augustine Chukwudum described as unfortunate that after receiving bailout funds from the Federal Government, which the governors agreed was enough to settle workers,such money would still be diverted.

The statement said such action was the height of insensitivity in a democratic setting that holds a lot of good promises for the people. “On South East, we observed that Gov. Rochas Okorocha of Imo state notwithstanding bailout funds that runs into billions that he received from the Federal Government still owes workers in the state many months salary.We demand that Gov. Rochas Okorocha should pay workers in Imo state their salary within sixty days".

In fact, a report in Thisday of May 3,2016 quoted a statement by the EFCC that some of officials of Okorocha were arrested on the allegation that they diverted N2b from the bailout funds meant to pay the state workers.

According to a statement from EFCC, those arrested included Principal Secretary to Imo state Governor, Rochas Okorocha, Dr. Obi Paschal Chigozie, Director of Finance in the government house, Uzoho Casmir, and one Iheoma Kenneth, referred to as a Treasurer.

“Their arrest followed an investigation into the alleged

diversion of the said money which revealed that, the cashier had made cash withdrawal of N456.532m between September 3, 2015 and October 10, 2015 from the Government House account domiciled in Zenith Bank.”

We have heard nothing again on this case from our fantastically interesting anti graft war which has enabled Okorocha to exhibit the kind of impunity he is displaying against the people of Imo state.When you have an unequal justice in any country the hearts of men are set to wallow in iniquity.

As at the last count workers in Imo are owed varied backlog of salaries. Doctors are owed between 4-5 months. Teachers were owed about 13 months of salaries and allowances at a point but here is their governor playing Donatus in Bauchi while those who queued in the sun to elect him as their governor are wallowing in abject poverty.

Ostensibly because he is dying to play second fiddle in 2019,this "Nostradamus" who cannot yet see a good tomorrow for the people of Imo state is now seeing vision for those who have not made up their minds if they want to go to school.

If it were the Athenian days,the people of Imo should have an assembly where they would put Mallam Okorocha on his knees and ask him to explain to them the rationale behind his action with hands raised up.

But since that is not practicable for now,let organised (and even disorganised) labour rise and ask Okorocha to go to where the money to build school in Bauchi is coming from and pay their salaries. There could be credence to the EFCC charge that billions out of the bailout funds are being laundered somewhere after all!

..Acting President Osinbajo and infantile populism

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INCE President Muhammadu Buhari jetted out of the country to take care of his troubled ear,Acting President Prof. Yemi Osinbajo has hit the ground running in the wrong direction with a rash of populist actions that may not have been thought through but designed to earn some cheap accolades.

The first was a statement from his office that the Federal Government would commence the recruitment of 500,000 teachers on June 12 . I wondered if the Pastor has forgotten that the Sabbath day is not a working day in Nigeria. But far beyond that is how the Federal Government that is borrowing money to pay the salaries of its existing workers is going to add 500,000 teachers to its payroll.

What study has been done to show that teachers are the issue in our "schools" (many of what we call that name do not deserve such branding )? How many schools does the Federal Government have that require an injection of 500,000 teachers today?Is this designed to improve the quality of our education or some kind of LAWMA initiative to pack some unemployed graduates off the street ?

The second action is the plan to commence free meals in school.

Again,what study has been carried out on how to run this kind of programme without it becoming just jobs for some girls who will become emergency food vendors without giving value for money.

Have we calculated the cost of this?Is this year's budget enough to fund such a programme except it is just designed for a propaganda stuff? Has the Acting President asked the governor of Osun state what happened to O'meal?

It would make more sense to use such funds to carry out projects that would create opportunities for parents to be empowered and be able to feed their children sustainably rather than just throw money down the sink.If Osinbajo gives a meal and the parents still can't afford the other two,what does it come to?

The problems of Nigeria today require well thought out solutions and not infantile populism.

Feedback

18 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 2016 NIGERIA and indeed the football world are yet to come to terms with the sudden demise of Stephen Okechukwu Keshi, a football legend of our time who passed on to glory on Wednesday, 8th June 2016, at the age of 54.

As a pupil of St Finbarrs College, football beckoned and he became a key member of the Akoka-based school’s football team and helped them win the 1977 Lagos State Principal’s Cup. Afterwards, he joined the ACB Football Club, Lagos before moving to the New Nigeria Bank FC, Benin, where he was spotted by national team selectors.

Keshi played in five different African Cup of Nations tournaments, captaining the Super Eagles to their second continental success in 1994 in Tunisia. He was instrumental to Nigeria’s maiden appearance at

Stephen Keshi: Exit of a football legend the 1994 FIFA World Cup in the US where they reached the second round before losing to Italy.

He laid the foundation for Nigerian footballers’ professional careers when he first moved to the Ivory Coast league before departing for Belgium. His success drew many local players to Europe. He went on to play in France, the USA, and Malaysia.

Keshi’s coaching career began with Togo, where he became the first and only coach to qualify the country to the World Cup. He later coached Mali. With this track

record, he was appointed coach of the Nigerian national team in November 2011. He led the Super Eagles to the 2013 African Cup of Nations title in South Africa, becoming only the second man to win it both as a player and coach.

Keshi also became the second coach to lead Nigeria to the second round of the World Cup in the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

He remains the only African coach to have helped two nations qualify for the tournament.

Nicknamed “Big Boss” because of his leadership abilities, Keshi was charismatic and respected in

football circles throughout Africa, which accounted for the continent-wide mourning that followed news of his demise.

He temporarily quit in the aftermath of their Africa Cup of Nations victory following a dispute with the Nigerian football authorities over unpaid wages.

He reversed his decision and took the team to the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup as caretaker coach. In 2014, Keshi was sacked by the NFF and reinstalled after intervention from then President Jonathan.

Perhaps, what led to his early demise was the death of his wife, Nkem, in December, 2015. He died days after he was linked with South African giants Orlando Pirates.

We join the nation and the African continent in saluting one of the true legends of our football. We wish him eternal rest, and may the Almighty God console his family and teeming fans across Nigeria.

OPINION Stemming harbingers of climate change By

A

Olubunmi Aboderin

L GORE, a former United States VicePresident, must be oscillating between glee and gloom. Glee that his prognostications about climate change have largely been vindicated, and gloom that his prognostications about climate change have largely been vindicated. When his book and documentary entitled, An Inconvenient Truth, came out in 2006, he was viewed as everything from a well-meaning but false alarmist to a destabilising quack propagating a conspiracy theory. He was one of the first public figures with international facerecognition to sound the warning on the impending doom we’ve come to know as global warming. Few believed him at the onset, but now 10 years later, history has proved him to be, most unfortunately, more right than wrong.

Both 2014 and 2015 were declared the hottest years on record. 2016 may well be hotter still, judging by the unusually high temperatures we experienced particularly in February. In Nigeria, the undue temperatures and changes in weather patterns are causing year-by-year shrinkage of fertile acreage in the northern parts of the country. This warmer-weather phenomenon and its attendant consequences are being felt in other parts of the world too.

In December 2015, the former second largest lake in Bolivia, Lake Poopo, irreversibly evaporated. In April this year, thousands of tons of dead sardines washed up on the banks of the Queule River in Chile. In May, a

wildfire started near Fort McMurray in Canada and spread across more than 505,000 hectares, forcing the mandatory evacuation of an entire town.

According to NASA, the global temperature in April 2016 was the warmest ever recorded in any April since 1880. This across-borders rise in temperature is caused by both naturally-occurring and man-made factors. El Nino, the periodic movement of large chunks of warm water across the Pacific

The sooner we switch to renewable energy like solar the better Ocean, is the primary naturally-occurring cause of climate change. Greenhouse gases, such as fossil fuel-induced carbon dioxide, are the predominant man-made instigants of global warming. Climate change has an impact on the availability of water, the food supply chain, and of course, the environment. Our production of fossil fuels (like oil) and our overdependence on its derived products (like diesel, kerosene or petrol) are not helping. The quantum of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is said to have reached its highest recorded level in 2015. Mankind is producing more carbon dioxide than the earth can naturally process.

Most of us would list better roads and constant power supply as absolute necessities for Nigeria’s economic growth. However, our quest for development must be conducted sustainably. For example, while it’s splendid that there are plans to build a multi-lane, superhighway in Cross River State, it should

only be done after taking time to properly assess the long term, environmental impact of cutting through a national park, felling countless trees and irreparably altering certain ecosystems. When viewed through a climate change prism, such a trade off may prove to be ultimately retrogressive and costly in ways that may only become apparent 30 years from hence.

Having constant power supply is a boon to commercial competitiveness. The country’s current power generating capacity is said to have fallen below 2,500MW. There is a possibility that capacity for an additional 2,000MW will be restored by the end of 2016.

The Federal Ministry of Power, Works and Housing forecasts that our peak power demand in Nigeria is around 12,800MW and hopes to generate up to 40,000MW by 2020. However, there are those who believe that that goal is too modest because our needs could in actual fact be as high as 1,000MW per one million people. So, how do we balance this vital requirement for electricity with the pressing need to halt drastic climate change? Right now, the power shortfall is made up principally by gas-turbined private power projects or the individual use of generators fuelled by diesel or petrol.

Perhaps, it is time for us to be earnest about catching up with the rest of the world and shifting away from relying mainly on fossil fuel to generate our power. It is instructive that the construction of a 10MW wind farm in Katsina State has not been completed 10 years after inception. Meanwhile, the Gansu Wind Farm in China started in 2009 and seven years later it can generate more than 7,900MW. Their goal is to generate at least 20,000MW from this wind farm alone by

the year 2020. We seriously need to up our game.

Thankfully, there are indigenous social utility companies in Nigeria, which have figured out how to provide 24 hour electricity to rural communities at an affordable rate using solar energy. Incentives should be provided so that more entrepreneurs will be motivated to develop alternative energy solutions. Institutional investors with excess liquidity should consider ploughing their money into renewable energy projects (instead of building yet another block of unoccupied luxury apartments). Individuals with extra funds earning a pittance in savings accounts can also figure out how to invest in viable enterprises dedicated to providing clean energy. These are ways that we can replicate, for example, the community-owned wind farm system practised in the German region of North Frisia. The wind farms in North Frisia have the capacity to generate approximately 700MW, which is more electricity than the residents can use.

Imagine that. Constant power supply without the noise or atmospheric pollution of generators.

The sooner we switch to renewable energy like solar, wind or water, the better the chance we have for minimising the damaging effects of environmental anomalies within our borders. Though the chances of Nigeria becoming a zero-carbon economy are minuscule, those who insist that we can pursue development at a pace and in a manner that is "in harmony with nature”, are not necessarily tree-hugging lefties and should not be ignored. *Ms. Aboderin, an economist, is member of the Institute of Directors.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, June 14, 2016— —19

What other Niger Deltans must do

By Sunny Ikhioya HE devastating effects of the activities of the Niger T Delta Avengers on the Nigerian economy has made it imperative for the Federal government to reach a compromise with the militants. In fact, the PM News edition of Tuesday 7th June reported the setting up of a committee to discuss with the avengers. The questions that logically crop up from this development are : What will be the basis for discussions? Will the issues cover other Niger Delta ethnic groups? If an agreement is reached with the avengers, will that guarantee peace in the region? Do the authorities really want peace in the region? What must be done to guarantee that?

It is very important for all to know that the Ijaws are not the only ethnic group in the Niger Delta that have oil deposit in their land. The wikipedia source estimates over 40 ethnic groups in the whole region and almost all of them are oil rich and suffer the same degradation of their land as the Ijaws. The Ijaws also, are not the only tribe fighting for the resource control of their land. The late Ken Saro Wiwa a foremost minority rights activist was of the Ogoni ethnic stock.

But the recent militancy of the Ijaw group has made it seem like they are the only oil producing

community in the region. The import of their struggle is, if they had remained docile, the federal government and international communities will continue to ignore the degrading conditions in the region. The people of this region have always been hard working and contributed significantly to the economic development of the country at different times in our history.

Long before crude oil came to the fore, it was known as the oil region and European businessmen set up trading posts in different parts of the region. It was known as the oil region because of the predominance of palm oil production. So, the peddlers of the lies that the other regions resources were used to develop the oil businesses in the Niger Delta are only deluding themselves or speak out of ignorance. The Niger Deltans have always been productive but they have never been known to come up with one voice on issues affecting them. It has always been to the advantage of those in authority to keep them fighting amongst themselves through the divide and rule technique. The Niger Deltans have always been productive but they have never, ever come up with one voice because of the deliberate policy of the federal authorities to keep them apart. It began with the slave traders and later, during colonial times the British

continued with it by setting tribes against one another, if it is not through land acquisition, it was deliberate trade decisions that pit one against the other.

The federal government of Nigeria continued from where the colonial government stopped and it got to its peak during the civil war, with Chief Obafemi Awolowo as finance minister, the derivation policy for revenue

Other Niger Delta ethnic groups must demand to be included in the negotiation to table their demands generating communities was reduced to zero. Even with the glaring pollution and destruction of their land, successive governments have continued to ignore their pitiable plights. You just have to go to the oil producing areas to experience first hand what goes on there. It is genocide through environmental poisoning.

Even with their son Goodluck Jonathan as President, the majority ethnic groups rebuffed efforts to bring succour to the oil communities. For example, the Petroleum Industry Bill was

Enugu herdsmen: Political undertone of false alarm

By Linus Onyebuchi

T

HE recent false alarm in some sections of the media that the Fulani herdsmen returned to the once traumatised Nimbo community in UzoUwani Local Government Area of Enugu State, raped women and threatened to unleash more terror on the community is not only unfortunate and costly but also a hoax embedded with political undertones.

The alarm which nearly threw the entire country into another nightmarish apprehension, according to media reports, allegedly emanated from the Traditional Ruler of the community, Igwe John Ikemefuna Akor, who immediately addressed the press, denying the reports.

It is quite unfortunate that the traumatic hoax came at a time peace had returned to Nimbo and the people of the community were recovering from the shock of the senseless carnage.

The Igwe in question,did not only dispel the alarm as unfounded, he went further to state categorically that no woman was raped and that he did not speak to any reporter on the issue.

According to him: “There are no Fulanis in my community again. Since the attack in April, they all fled. As I speak to you now, normalcy has returned to Nimbo; the people are back on their farms. The story is a figment of the imagination of the writer. No woman was raped and I didn’t speak to any reporter”.

As a consultant farmer to one of the industrialised agricultural establishments in Uzo Uwani L.G.A, I visit the area daily and have followed with keen interest the unfolding developments in the Nimbo incident. To the best of my knowledge, I have not encountered any Fulani herdsmen or their cattle, as the Igwe rightly stated.

The Enugu State Police Command, in a statement signed by its Public Relations Officer, SP Ebere Amaraizu, confirmed the Igwe's stance on this false alarm describing the publications as “false, malicious, mischievous and misleading”.

SP Amaraizu, said the state police command had been working tirelessly in C M Y K

partnership with other security agencies, the Enugu State Government and relevant stakeholders, since the sad incident at Nimbo Community occurred, to ensure that peace returns to the community and that lives and property of the people of the area were protected.

The state Police PRO, while presenting a detailed account of what had transpired, disclosed that “the Commissioner of Police, CP Emmanuel Ojukwu on receipt of the

The onus, therefore, is on the governor and security agencies to properly investigate the spate of false and unwarranted alarms being peddled over the issue, because of its sensitive nature misleading report, quickly contacted his security operatives on duty at Nimbo community where he got a report that the area is still peaceful and that there is no trace of Fulani herdsmen after the ugly incident.”

According to the police statement, “the Area Commander, Nsukka Zone and the DPO, Adani in charge of Nimbo also confirmed that there is no trace of herdsmen in the area since after the ugly incident of 25/4/16.

“Also contacted were the Traditional Ruler of Nimbo Community, HRH Igwe John Akor and the Chairman of UzoUwani Local Government Area, Cornell Onwubuya who maintained that the area is peaceful and there have not been any trace of Fulani Herdsmen and their cattle since after the ugly incident and wondered why there should be such publication.

“However to ensure that things were not taken for granted, the heads of Fulani/ herdsmen communities were summoned to this effect and in his reaction, Bala Ardo, the general secretary maintained that

killed in the National Assembly, now they have brought out a much toned down version that does not take the communities into consideration. You cannot allow the ‘goose’ that lays the golden eggs to die. Until the federal authorities find an alternative source of revenue to the Niger Delta crude oil, they must kowtow to the rights of the owners of the oil, no other way out.

The Jonathan government did not do much to alleviate the plight of the Niger Delta citizens, the little he did were concentrated in his hometown and other Ijaw locations. Projects that would have benefited other ethnic groups like the Ogidigben projects were needlessly subjected to controversies, same with the oil wells disputes involving Bayelsa and Rivers states. This has made people from other delta ethnic groups to remain indifferent to the current plight of their Ijaw neighbours because, from the experience of the recent past, the Ijaws have proven to be greedy with the spoils. But, should we allow them to negotiate alone on issues that affect the whole region? My opinion is that the negotiation must involve all of the ethnic tribes in the Niger Delta region, no one must be excluded. Each of them must come to the negotiation table to express openly matters that affect them.

It is a common problem to the whole - the economic exploitation and degradation of their land therefore there must be

Fulani herdsmen since after the incident at Nimbo have not gone to the area and its environs as he stressed that it will be morally wrong for them to go back to the area when the community is still nursing injuries of their lost ones.”

The Police PRO, who sensed a political undertone in the issue, stressed that “probe into the publication revealed that it is not only false but baseless and aimed at undermining the efforts of the state government as well as that of the security agencies put in place to restore normalcy and to ensure that there is lasting peace not only in Nimbo but other communities in the state.

“The command also viewed such publication as capable of generating tension, rancour and bitterness among people in the state. The command has mobilised its security apparatus to fish out those in the habit of spreading false and dangerous rumours in the state and bring them to book.”

Also dispelling the said media reports, the Fulani community in the state during the joint press briefing with the leadership of Nimbo community insisted that no such renewed attack occurred in Nimbo. They added that the Fulani herdsmen have not returned to the community and appealed to Nimbo residents to inform their leaders or security agencies whenever they sight any pastoralist in the community.

Dismissing the alarm as “false and mischievous”, the Chairman of Uzo Uwani Local Government Area, Hon. Cornell Onwubuya, alleged it was also "targeted at undermining the successful efforts made by the present administration in Enugu State to resolve the Nimbo incident, amicably.”

According to a statement signed by him to dispel the false alarm and douse the already tense situation, “as the Chairman and Chief Security Officer of the Local Government Area, I wish to state categorically that the said publications are false and mischievous.

“It is on record that peace has returned to Nimbo since after the attack and the state government has taken all necessary measures to provide adequate security to protect the lives and property of the people of the area.”

Inspite of these assurances, one was terribly disburbed and convinved that the detractors were at work in the state, when an Online platform (NAIJ.Com) two days

adequate compensation and true control of the resources in their land. The real communities must be made partners of any project that is embarked upon in their land and not succumb to the divide and rule tactics of the federal government. One has noticed that some groups are encouraging the federal government to intensify military action in the region because they are not happy with the way the Ijaws have handled things in the past but we all know that no military action can bring lasting peace to the region.

It is only a concerted effort from all the ethnic groups, reached peacefully, that can guarantee lasting peace. The pipelines crisscross the whole region, no military super power can mann it without the co-operation of the indigenes.

If we allow the Ijaw avengers to negotiate alone, we are giving bite to their right to claim the reward alone and allow others to scrabble for the crumbs as was the case under the Jonathan government.

Other Niger Delta ethnic groups must demand to be included in the negotiation to table their demands. They should not allow others do it for them. They must also not allow themselves to be used as spoilers or saboteurs of a genuine cause for the region’s freedom.

*Sunny Ikhioya wwwsouthsouthecho.com Twitter: @Sunny Ikhioya

after had an headline report with “Tension in Enugu as Fulani herdsmen attacks stir protest …the people of Nze community have protested against the continued attack by the marauders”.

But, one was glad that this was debunked by the Enugu state command of the Nigeria police dispelling the unwarranted alarm raised in some sections of the media thereby saving the day.

The police statement signed by its spokesman, SP Amaraizu, was even more reassuring when it stated thus: “there was no attack by Fulani herdsmen at Akpakume/Nze on 9/6/16 and also, no tension in Enugu whatsoever over any issue relating to alleged attack by any group of person or Fulani herdsmen as alleged in some sections of the media.

The statement further added: “a case of malicious damage of farm crops was received on 9/6/16 from Akpakume /Nze community from a yet to be established cattle rearer which prompted a meeting between the seven members of Fulani cattle rearers led by Alhaji Shimo Mohammed, farm owners and security agencies and after, parties had visited the farm site to establish the extent of damage to farm crops by cattle.

“Meanwhile, discussion/ talks are on with a view to arriving at the peaceful modalities of compensation of the damaged farm crops. This however did not generate any tension in the community and its environs or any attack as the area and its environs are still peaceful with people going about their lawful business.”

From all indications, there is no gainsaying that the recent false reports of alleged renewed attacks, rape of women, among other threats from the herdsmen, were mischievously peddled and politically motivated, basically to undermine the tireless and successful efforts of the present administration in the state in restoring peace and security in Nimbo and other communities.

One wonders why the herdsmen's issue should be politicised. The onus therefore is on the governor and security agencies to properly investigate the spate of false and unwarranted alarms being peddled over the issue, because of its sensitive nature. *Mr. Onyebuchi, an agriculturalist, wrote from Onitsha, Anambra State.

20 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 2016

Nkpor Junction:

Sad memories of another blood spill

By Nwabueze Okonkwo, Onitsha

D

AYS after Igbos, and indeed many Nigerians, continue to lament and condemn the unfortunate killings at the popular Nkpor Junction in Idemili North Local Government Area, near the commercial city of Onitsha in Anambra State on Monday, May 30, 2016 during the remembrance day of Biafran heroes and heroines who died during the 1967 civil war. It has, however, emerged that this was the second of a major blood spill at Nkpor Junction which is an intersection of roads linking Onitsha, Obosi, Umuoji, Ogidi and the expressway leading to Awka and Enugu.

The first blood spill occurred at the same spot in 1983 during the Second Republic second term presidential campaign of the then President Shehu Shagari.

Supporters of the late Biafran warlord, Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu who joined the ruling National Party of Nigeria, NPN, soon after returning from exile had clashed with those of the then Governor of old Anambra State, Chief Jim Nwobodo of the Nigeria Peoples Party, NPP.

disperse any gathering of either the IPOB, Biafra Independence Movement, BIM or Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra, MASSOB.

•Soldiers stationed at Nkpor Junction In one of their protests, the IPOB members smashed a pillar erected at the Nkpor junction during the commissioning ceremony of Nkpor/Ogidi/ Abagana/Enugwu-Ukwu/Awka

Presidential pardon Nwobodo was then campaigning for second term while Ojukwu who was granted presidential pardon by Shagari was jostling to take over from him.

During the 1983 episode, guns, cutlasses and acid were freely used between the two rival political groups, with Ojukwu himself leading the NPN to justify his presidential pardon, while Nwobodo led his own campaign train.

The latest blood spill was the tragic climax of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, members insistence on going ahead with their proposed 49th remembrance day ceremony scheduled for May 30. However, the Nigerian security forces which described IPOB as an outlawed group vowed to stop any such gathering.

From Saturday, May 28, the security forces started mounting surveillance at the Nkpor Junction, waiting to intercept and

•Ojukwu’s statue at Nkpor Junction

During the 1983 episode, guns, cutlasses and acid were freely used between the two rival political groups

old road. The pillar has on it this inscription: “This road was commissioned by His Excellency, Governor Willie Obiano on this day”.

Hostilities erupted at about 3 am on May 30 when the security forces got an information that

some IPOB members had camped at a nearby St. Edmund’s Catholic Church, swooped on them in the process of which some were either killed or injured some, while others were arrested. They also allegedly took the corpses of those killed to Onitsha military cantonment.

The onslaught continued in the morning as the security forces launched another attack and killed more persons, bringing the death toll to an estimated 40 which IPOB said included persons going about their normal and lawful businesses.

Biafra fallen heroes Also on the evening of Saturday, May 28, five chartered 18-seater buses occupied by Chief Ralph Uwazuruike-led MASSOB were intercepted by soldiers at a military check-point along Onitsha/Owerri dual carriageway by Azia Junction in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra state. The MASSOB’s National Director of Information, Chris Mocha had told newsmen on phone that he did not know where the soldiers took all the occupants of the buses who are

their members to.

Mocha added that three of the buses carrying their members who were returning to Anambra and Delta states from Owerri where they had attended their n a t i o n a l convention were intercepted first, while two others carrying Biafran veteran soldiers returning from the same Owerri meeting were intercepted about 30 minutes later.

Mocha noted that he had communicated the ugly situation to the MASSOB leader, Uwazuruike who in turn instructed him to issue a press statement to that effect.

He however stated that in spite of all odds, MASSOB had concluded arrangements to celebrate Biafra day, remembrance of Biafra fallen heroes and the 49th anniversary of the outbreak of the genocidal civil war arising from the declaration of Biafra Republic, which claimed lives of millions of Igbo sons and daughters.

He also called on military authorities to leave their members alone as they were neither armed nor exhibited any act of violence as they were returning to Anambra State and parts of Delta State from Owerri where they had attended a meeting presided over by Uwazuruike himself.

But by the next day, Mocha confirmed to newsmen that the arrested members had been spotted at the State Criminal Investigations Department, CID, where they were detained, adding that out of 92 members arrested, 23 were old Biafran soldiers.

Bishop Dr. Abraham Chris Udeh, the High Priest and Founder of Mount Zion Faith

Global Liberation Ministries (a.k.a. By Fire By Fire), Nnewi, had condemned the invasion of St. Edmund’s Catholic Church, Nkpor-Agu and Eke market, Nkpor-Uno by the joint military and security forces to attack IPOB members. Bishop Udeh also condemned the alleged invasion of Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, NAUTH, Nnewi by the forces to whisk away IPOB members who were injured in the process and taken to the hospital for medical attention.

In an interview with newsmen his Uruagu-Nnewi country home, Udeh described such invasions as sacrilege, because according to him, under the United Nation’s Charter on Human Rights, churches, markets and hospitals are regarded as sacred place and as such, war mongers are forbidden from launching attacks against their enemies in these sacred places since it is not only their opposition that go to churches, markets and hospitals.

Solemn appeal Meantime, a human rights group, International Society for Civil Liberties and the Rule of Law, Intersociety, has made a solemn appeal to the general public to check the whereabouts of their loved ones particularly those who passed through Owerri Road, Asaba-Onitsha Head Bridge, Onitsha-Upper Iweka, Onitsha-Nkpor Expressway, Oba-Nnewi Road, Ojoto-Umuoji Road, NkporOgidi-Old Road, between May 29 and 30, 2016.

Intersociety said the solemn appeal became imperative as further updates and comprehensive compilation of casualty figures of IPOB, MASSOB and other innocent citizens massacred by a combine security forces during the May 30, during the Biafra remembrance day protest, are being awaited from credible independent sources including Intersociety.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 2016

Forex crises: Conglomerates, multinationals lose N320bn in 6 months Continues from page 1 steady cost pressure on the financial positions of the companies as a result of the impact of foreign exchange scarcity on their operations which has led to a dwindling fortune to the tune of about N200 billion between fourth quarter 2015 and first quarter 2016.

The losses are coming from cost of servicing foreign loans as well as exchange rate depreciation costs and general input costs, all of which forced margins and profits into contraction.

PZ Cussons Plc, one of the effected companies, said there will continue to be low levels of dollar liquidity in the country and its costs of operating in Nigeria are currently higher due to the additional cost of funding naira from the secondary market.

Consequently, it stated that an exceptional charge (cost) of £17million (about N8.5 billion) is expected in 2016 in relation to settling a brought forward dollar liability in Nigeria in the secondary market.

Vanguard learnt that most companies in the real sector, especially the big brands have taken similar steps since 2015 to retain their market share and brand equity at huge cost.

For Unilever Nigeria Plc, the major drag to performance in its full year 2015 results released earlier this year was the massive jump in finance cost, up 66 per cent yearon-year despite 37.5 per cent drop in borrowings in the year.

According to financial analysts at Afrinvest West Africa, a Lagos based investment house, “Unilever remains highly levered as 62.9 per cent of its full year 2015 operational profit went into finance cost. We

We are operating at 30 percent capacity – Seme Customs

By Godwin Oritse HE Seme Border T Customs Command of the Nigeria Customs Service, (NCS)

VISIT: Minister of Science and Technology, Dr Ogbonnaya Onu explaining a point of interest on Nigeria's abundant mineral resources to the CEO PZ Cussons Nigeria PLC Mr Christos Giannopoulos when the later paid him a courtesy visit in his office recently.

still remain somehow bearish on the valuation of the company as the current macroeconomic challenges, most especially foreign exchange related operations are expected to take toll on overall performance”.

Berger Paints Nigeria Plc has attributed the drop in their financial performance for the first quarter ended March 31, 2016 to foreign exchange scarcity. The Managing Director, Mr Peter Folikwe, stated at the Nigerian Stock Exchange that”margin drop largely as a result of increase in raw material prices and scarcity of foreign exchange as we have to largely resort to local sourcing of raw materials at exorbitant price”.

Guinness Nigeria Plc had complained that the currency restrictions imposed by the Central Bank of Nigeria,CBN,werehinderingitfrom procuring the foreign exchange needed to bring in raw materials. “Foreign currency $137.20 0.25 capacity has been a major issue for us and that has put $3,148.00 13.00 a strain on our business, in particular, liquidity has been $ 19.52 -0.18 a major challenge”, Managing Director, Peter Ndegwa, stated.

Analystsattributethedecline $50.15 -0.39 in bottom line in the brewery sector to a weak Naira that $48.17 -0.36 significantly impacted on cost of sales since most of raw materials are imported to CURRENCY BUYING SELLING meet production.

US 196 196.5 197 Brewers are spending DOLLAR 277.7712 278.4798 279.1884 more to produce each unit POUNDS 220.8528 221.4162 221.9796 of products as cost of sales EURO 202. 7307 203. 2478 203.765 ratio increased to 51.13 FRANC 1.8473 1.852 1.856 percent in 2015 from 45 YEN 0.3186 0.3286 0.3386 percent the previous year, CFA 275. 9303 276. 6342 277.3381 WAUA 29.7502 29.8265 29.9029 leading to total cost RENMINBI 52.2583 52.3916 52.5249 industry-wide of over N250 RIYAL 29.6925 29.7682 29.844 billion with Nigerian BrewKRONA 275.968 276.672 277.376 eries accounting for about N151 billion in 2015 and CBN Exchange rate as at 13/06/2016 N40.2 billion in the first

C M Y K

— 21

quarter of 2016.

The 11.85 per cent rise in cost recorded by Nigerian Breweries in the first quarter of 2016, according to analysts at FSDH Merchant Bank, could be attributed to the rise in input costs. The cost of raw materials and consumables alone rose by 30.44 per cent to N24.56 billion from N18.83 billion in 2015.

Guinness Nigeria’s cost in 2015 was N62 billion.

The survey conducted by PricewaterhouseCoopers, PwC, showed that over 60 per cent of companies in Nigeria recorded huge declining sales/revenue as a result of the foreign exchange rationing policy.

The report, commissioned by the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and unveiled in Lagos by the President, LCCI, Dr. Nike Akande, and the Regional Managing Partner, West Africa, PwC, Mr. Uyi Akpata, revealed that 42 per cent of the companies had been implementing aggressive cost-cutting measures, while 18 per cent were already sacking staff.

Foreign currency capacity has been a major issue for us and that has put a strain on our business, in particular, liquidity has been a major challenge

The Director-General, LCCI, Mr. Muda Yusuf, said that companies who were exposed to foreign loans were finding things very difficult at the moment.

He stated, “When you are taking foreign loans, one of the biggest risks you face is exchange rate fluctuations. For a long time, Nigeria has had very stable exchange rate; so, the risks did not quite crystallise; but now, the risks have crystallised and many firms find it difficult to manage the situation.

According to the Managing Director of UAC Group Larry Ettah, CBN’s delays in announcing details of a more flexible foreign-exchange system are holding back business decisions because of confusion over future costs.

“They should have done it yesterday, rather than tomorrow.

We are hopeful that if flexibility is introduced, it will help to bring clarity in terms of costing. People don’t like uncertainty. If you look at the cost of raising those funds and also the amount you’ll end up raising, it’s simply cost ineffective,” Ettah said.

About 10 days ago the Central Bank Governor, Godwin Emefiele had at the end of the Monetary Policy Committee meeting informed the world that they were going to introduce a flexible exchange rate policy and that “details of operations of the market would be released by the central bank at the appropriate time”.

It’s almost two weeks since that announcement was made and the Central Bank is yet to release details. This has ensured a spike in speculation leading the Naira to depreciate to as high as N376 to the dollar.”

said it is currently operating at 30 percent capacity due to dilapidated infrastructure and unwholesome practices.

Disclosing to members of the House Representative Committee on Customs, Customs Area Comptroller, CAC, of the command, Mr. Victor Dimka said that officers of the Command were living in squalor as lack of accommodation has dampened the morale of officers.

Dimka said that officers now live in the houses of smugglers, adding that this has made them to compromise on many fronts.

He explained that the absence of a baggage hall, power, and lack of interconnectivity between Nigeria and Benin Republic has made it impossible to have the true manifest of goods coming into Nigeria from Benin.

Some of the challenges militating against command’s operation includes the improper implementation of the agreement arrived at on the handing over of transit goods and vehicles to Nigeria Customs by Benin Customs.

The Customs’ boss also said that the violation of Direct Trader Input, (DTI) by importers and agents has made declarations to be captured with little or no payment made to Customs coffers.

His words: “The non-completion of the ECOWAS building that has been under renovation for a long time has impacted negatively on our operations as well.

“Absence of baggage hall to ensure efficient baggage assessment and provide efficient control of human and vehicular movement in and out of Nigeria, as well as the dilapidated and sorry state of the Badagry Express road.”

In his reaction to the issues raised by the Customs Comptroller, Chairman, House Committee on Customs, Rufai Ahmed Chachangi said that the Committee is aware that officers of the service are underpaid.

He told the Comptroller to put the challenges faced by the command in writing and forward same to the Committee for action.

The Command has collected a total of N3.9 billion, a total 221 seizures and 22 suspects were recorded between January and May 2016

22 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 2016 Though volume in Nigeria was far higher in absolute terms than all other markets put together, growth rate was much lower relatively

,

INVESTOR' INVESTOR'S analysts believe that despite the impact of price war on Q1, 2016 operating margins, first half (H1) 2016 would likely show a lessened pressures on margins as sales made in the corresponding periods of 2015 were at near comparable prices.

Moreover, with a high probability of devaluation in Nigeria before end of 2016 there would be a fresh boost in forex gains.

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Dangote Cement: Still battling against pressured margins •Outlook posts mixed expectations

By Emeka Anaeto, Economy Editor

P

ERHAPS one of the r e m a r k a b l e developments in the cement market in recent times was the price-competition which, incidentally, came at a time Nigeria was already neck deep into economic headwinds.

Obviously, operating environment became inclement.

Dangote Cement’s global profile is predominantly Nigerian content despite operations in several other African countries. Nigeria still contributes over 50 per cent of the revenue.

Consequently, a price war in Nigeria, championed by Dangote, had continued to pressure margins though revenue growth has reflected the upside of the strategy.

Volume advantage, leading outcome: The company ’s revenue growth was strong in the first quarter (Q1), 2016 at 22.2 per cent year-on-year, y-o-y and 11.3 per cent quarter-on-quarter, q-o-q, to N140.5 billion as against N114.7 billion in the corresponding period of 2015.

The growth which depicts an equally impressive performance in volume of sales, underlines its dominance in the African market.

Dominance in the African market It is remarkable that the group’s revenue growth was mainly driven by market share gains across all reporting segments which notched up group’s sales volume in the quarter by 69.6 per cent y-o-y and 10.4 per cent q-oq to 6.4 million tones (mt).

Though volume in Nigeria was far higher in absolute terms than all other markets put together, growth rate was much lower relatively.

Record sales volume in Nigerian market was up 45.4 per cent to 4.5 mt, South & East Africa (SEA) sales volume was up 49.2 per cent to 0.7 mt while West & Central Africa (WCA) sales volume massively jumped by 448.9 per cent to 1.2 mt.

The improvement in volume buffered the impact of lower prices of cement across all segments on sales especially in Nigeria and SEA where price competition has gained traction due to weaker economies and increasing supply capacity.

Price/tone fell by 27.3 per cent yo-y in Nigeria and 21.4 per cent

y-o-y in SEA. Counting the cost of the price war: However, the impressive outcome of the pricing strategy predictably bruised operating margins which contracted just as operating expenses was increasing.

Operating expenses increased faster than revenue by 27.4 per cent to N22.4 billion from N17.6 billion to pressure OPEX margins to 15.9 per cent from 15.3 per cent.

Consequently, the group’s EBITDA (Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization) margin declined by 11.2 per cent to 51.5 per cent.

Earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) trimmed 4.0 per cent y-o-y to N56.1 billion pressing the EBIT margin down by 11.0 percentage point to 39.9 per cent.

It appeared that the weakness in operating margins could not be offset by economies of scale benefits from higher volumes

Operating expenses increased faster than revenue by 27.4 per cent to N22.4 billion from N17.6 billion to pressure OPEX margins to 15.9 per cent from 15.3 per cent because of energy crises in Nigeria which exacerbated the pressure on margins as the group’s fuel and power costs doubled (again reflecting the dominant position of Nigeria in the multinational cement group).

Also high base impact from foreign exchange gains recorded in Q1, 2015 (following Naira devaluation), led to contraction in net margins by 22.2 per cent to 37.6 per cent, hence the 23.1 per cent decline in profit after tax, PAT. Management pulse: Onne van der Weijde, Chief Executive Officer of Dangote Cement, said concerning the Q1, 2016 results: “We are confident that the Nigerian market will grow substantially this year as major projects are enabled by funding packages designed to improve Nigeria’s infrastructure.

“At the time of last September’s price reduction we cautioned that

Cement market

•Aliko Dangote Chairman, Dangote Cement our profit margin could be lower during 2016. However, in the first quarter of 2016 we have demonstrated that we have improved our absolute EBITDA and we are still achieving very good 51.5% EBITDA margins at Group level despite the price cut in Nigeria and the general economic malaise that has affected a number of countries in which we operate.

“That we are gaining substantial market shares so soon after launching operations across Africa is a testament to our business model of competing with higher-quality products produced at lower costs. Our success in these markets is positioning us for even better performance in the coming years as economies begin to recover”.

Investment Outlook: Most investment analysts expected the contraction in net margins given

the stronger prices in cement in H1, 2015 and the higher base effect of foreign exchange gains which partly accounted for the pressured net margins.

But this appeared to have been assuaged by the strong volume recorded even against the backdrop of macroeconomic headwinds which heightened in Q1, 2016. Consequently, analysts at Afrinvest West Africa, a Lagos based investment house, revised its volume forecast upwards by 2.2 million mt to 25.5 million mt (implied 35.2 per cent y-o-y growth from 18.9 million mt recorded in FY 2015).

But y-o-y volumes and revenue growth will likely trim in subsequent quarters as base year starts to account for start of production activities in plants in Zambia, Cameroon, Ethiopia and Senegal in the last 9months of 2015. However, investment

Still, analysts at Afrinvest expect margins to be weaker than earlier forecast as prices are materially weaker in Nigeria and SEA, hence they trimmed full year 2016 y-o-y EBITDA growth forecast to 3.4 per cent from 6.0 per cent and also revised full year 2016 earnings per share (EPS) to N10.48 from N11.25. In 2015, EPS was N10.86.

The Nigerian cement market is positioned for demand growth as Nigerian government is prioritizing capital projects especially in the 2016 budget.

However price-competition, operating and financing cost pressures remain headwinds on Nigerian margins.

Production ramp-up in WCA has led to improvement in its margins but SEA operating margins development remains discomforting.

In their valuation of Dangote Cement stock Afrinvest stated “ we continue to value DANGCEM at a premium to peers based on relatively higher volume growth prospects and profitability margins”.

DANGOTE CEMENT. Q1: 2016 Result -Regional Markets Performance

SALARY ARREARS: CUDA workers lay siege to C-River ministry

PAGE 25

MISS DIKIBUJIRI DIRI: SPDC scholarship beneficiary inspires N-Delta communities

VOL. 1: No. 95

TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 2016

A’Ibom community laments abandoned fishing terminal •Residents entreat FG, state govts to revitalize project

By CHIOMA ONUEGBU

E

BUGHU — RESIDENTS of Ebughu community, Mbo Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State, have called on both the Federal and State Governments to breathe life into the only Fishing Terminal in the area allegedly forsaken over 15 years ago.

When Niger Delta Voice visited the terminal, last operated in 2001 by management agent, Eskor Marine, weeds had overtaken the dilapidated buildings and equipment.

handover land Similarly, Godwin Okon Ante, youth president of Akai Ebughu, where the facility is situated, lamented that the abandoned project has adversely affected fishing business in the area, urging the state government to take over the project or help the federal government to revive it.

Ante added, “since this fishing terminal was abandoned about 15 years ago, business is not booming again here. In fact, the anglers now sell their fish on the high seas.

Our youths that liked the fishing business are

Since this fishing terminal was abandoned about 15 years ago, business is not booming again here discouraged because this place is no longer working. It

has also affected our community in many other ways.”

“Apart from slowing down fishing business, we no longer get the small remittance from vessels that come in and which serve as a source of revenue to the local government area. Even white men were living in our communities when this terminal was still working.

“I believe that if this place becomes functional again, we will not be talking about youth unemployment, which is why

PAGE 25

we need government to come and revive the place and we want to use this opportunity to say that we are going to take back our land if they do not come to revive it. We are giving government just two years or we take back our land.”

Get a viable investor, not lease Another resident, who simply identified himself as Etim, said the best way to ensure sustainability of the project was outright sale to a viable investor and not leasing it out.

“I believe that the place be sold out completely to a viable investor.

The federal government has been leasing it out to management agents and that did not work. The Indians were here. After that, Mid-farm came, and then Eskor Marine took over and after six years, they left and so on. But if it can be revived and sold to a company that can manage it well, I believe that will be better,” Etim said.

Repair and maintenance The Federal Ministry of Agriculture has not leased the terminal established in 1985 to another management for about 15 years . The terminal provided onshore services to fishing vessels, underwater and repair and maintenance.

Youth leader in the area, Mr. Eteka Iyahakwa, appalled at the development, said: “This terminal has cold room facilities and ice-making machines that assist fishermen to store large quantities of fish before selling to their customers. But all that equipment is all dilapidated because the place has been abandoned.”

Iyahakwa, former secretary of Akai Village Council, urged the federal and state governments to bring back the project and create massive employment opportunities for the people.

2-year notice to develop or C M Y K

•Ebughu Fishing terminal cold room in Mbo LGA.

•Quay collapsing due to erosion and lack of maintenance.

•One of the dilapidated buildings at Mbo fishing terminal overtaken by weeds.

•Spoilt Fishing Vessel at the Mbo terminal

24 — VANGUARD, TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 2016

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 2016 — 25

RIVERS… TREASURE BASE OF THE NATION when you step out and come back, you are wiser and you do things differently.”

She did her one year National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, in 2014 at CSS, Otuedu in Ogbia Local Government Area, Ogbia, Bayelsa State, which had an English teacher for only Senior Secondary School, SSS3 students.

•Bille Kingdom •Diki NYSC

Rot in the system “I served at CSS, Otuedu in Ogbia Local Government Area; I was posted to a school that had no teachers.

The students did not have an English teacher until SSS 3. They were only taught by NYSC members,” she disclosed.

According to her, the national service was very revealing because she saw the gaps in many schools in communities in the region, adding, “they lacked teachers for key relevant subjects.

Imagine the school where I did my youth service had no English teacher for other arms except SS3.

“I was privileged to teach very smart students, who just did not have the opportunity to express

MISS DIKIBUJIRI DIRI: SPDC scholarship beneficiary inspires N-Delta communities

By Jimitota Onoyume

B

ILLE — THE General Memorandum of Understanding, GMoU, entered in 2009 between Bille community in Degema Local Government Area, Rivers State and Shell Petroleum Development Company, SPDC/its joint partners to offer overseas university scholarships to deserving indigenes has started paying off for the riverside town and other communities in the Niger Delta region.

One of the luminous villagers, Miss Dikibujiri Diri, who is among the 11 Bille youths offered scholarships by the multinational company, has become a spring of pleasure and encouragement to her people. She studied Biology at the high-status Huston-Tillotson Univeristy, Austin, Texas, United States of America.

Diri, who attended HustonTillotson University in Austin, Texas, graduating with a degree in Biology (Hons) could have eloped after her training, but she opted to come back. Since the completion of her National Youth

THE TEAM Emma Amaize, Editor Jimitota Onoyume Samuel Oyadongha Simon Ebegbulem Gabriel Enogholase Festus Ahon Egufe Yafugborhi Emmanuel Una Akpokona Omafuaire Godwin Oghre Tom Moses Chioma Onuegbu Ike Uche Davies Iheamnachor Emem Idio Brisibe Perez Theresa Ugbobu Ochuko Akuopha Barnabas Uzosike Nath Onajoke Chijioke Nwankpa C M Y K

Service Corps, NYSC, she has been providing mentorship to communities in the Niger Delta region and that is what has stood her out.

Her words: “I could have stayed in the States. I chose to come back to Nigeria because I wanted to experience Nigeria again through different eyes. When you are in a bad situation, you do not realize how bad it is, it seems normal, and so it is difficult to change things. However,

They gave us something that is immeasurable. After the success of the original 11, another set of youths also benefited from the overseas university sponsorship

themselves, so I decided to do something about the plight of students at home that genuinely want to learn.”

Game changer What she did is what has set her out among her peers. Her words: “I was deeply touched by the situation and thought about what I can do after my service year to help redress this challenge in many communities.

I had to set up Chairein Academy with two staff and a good number of volunteers.

“It is an educational training consulting firm inspired by my NYSC experience and my desire to contribute my own quota to my community. We train public school teachers and offer a range of courses that teach them leadership skills in class, helping them to recognize the impact of what they do and hopefully to bring back the passion in teaching.

“I cannot quantify what this experience means to my community. We are a very small community and in fact, we do not even have any influential people in government. So, for Shell to believe in us and to allow us to spread our wings this way is something we can never forget.”

Diri further asserted: “They gave us something that is immeasurable. After the success of the original 11, another set of youths from a neighbouring community also benefited from the overseas university sponsorship under the GMoU.”

CROSS-RIVER… THE PEOPLE’S PARADISE

By IKE UCHECHUKWU

C

ALABAR — A cold war is currently brewing at the Ministry of Environment, Calabar, Cross River State, over the nonpayment of seven- month salaries of workers of the Calabar Urban Development Authority, CUDA. CUDA is an agency under the ministry responsible for waste evacuation in the state capital.

Niger Delta Voice learned that CUDA staff stormed the ministry’s headquarters located at 2 off Barracks Road, Calabar protesting what they described as “inhumane” treatment meted out to them by the state government and vowed to set the ministry ablaze if nothing was done in the next three days.

This is coming barely one month after the state governor, Prof Ben Ayade, allegedly fired over 250 staff of the ministry engaged in street sweeping for protesting nonpayment of 21 months salaries.

An aggrieved worker, Mr. Peter Okon, who spoke with NDV, lamented that apart from nonpayment of salaries, they have been starved of basic equipment their work effectively.

“Look at me, I have a family to cater for and for seven months now I have not been paid, yet I

SALARY ARREARS: CUDA workers lay siege to C-River ministry *Over 250 workers fired for allegedly protesting non-payment of wages pay transport to work on a daily basis. Before now, our salary was N30 000, but they reduced it N20, 000 and later N18 000, but because we have passion for our state, we did not complain. We have been doing our job but seven months after, we have not been paid and we are not hearing any reasonable explanation from the government,” he said.

Further expressing outrage over the privailing set of circumstances, Mr. Okon said: “If we do not get our salary be sure that they will not find it funny,

•Protesters

we cannot be suffering, risking our lives by packing waste with our bare hands, while somebody is sitting in the office to enjoy the money. How many people will accept to do what we are doing?”

Mrs. Emem Asuquo, for his part, another worker said: “I have spent eight years on this job; we have never witnessed this kind of treatment before. Before now, we receive hospital allowance, we have rain boots and hand gloves to protect ourselves from possible infection while doing our job. But since this government

assumed office, we do not have access to any of these things again, adding: “Personally, I am owed three months salary. I want my money I do not want the job again. Any day you miss work due to health challenges, you will be sacked; we have not seen this kind of insensitivity before.”

Another CUDA employee, Mrs. Theresa Inyang, relieved of her job with over 250 others, last month, because they demanded payment of 21-month salary arrears, asserted: “We were sacked because we protested the release of our entitlement.

Anybody that utters any word is shown the exit door.”

•Protesters liter the front of the ministry with dirt.

26 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 2016

PANORAMA

Ijaw group visits, donates to Oporoza women

•Oporoza women •Ijaw Women Connect donates relief materails to Oporoza women

Sapele Power Plc holds stakeholders’ forum

•Participants from Sapele-Okpe, neigboring communities at the stakeholders’ forum.

•From left, Prof R. O. Onyeonwu, Mr Onoriede Odjegba (MD) Engr Gurtej Sra (CEO), Mr. Amobi Unanwa (Ag Plant Mgr) and Barr (Mrs) Anthonia Nwaefi-Ibibuo (legal adviser) at the stakeholders’ forum.

Odi Bio-Resources centre enthralls minister *Mushroom, grass-cutter, others domesticated with technology *Ginger, other non-indigenous plants cultivated in Nigeria *We've no reason to be poor as a nation —Ogbonnaya Onu

By Emem Idio

O

DI— MINISTER of Science and Technology, Dr Ogbonnaya Onu, marveled when he visited the BioResources Development Centre, a research centre operated by the National Biotechnology Development Agency, a parasatal of the ministry at Odi, Kolokuma/ Opokuma Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, recently.

He was not the only one in awe when he visited the commission the ultra-modern laboratories, an ICT centre, trainees’ auditorium, and research fellows and staff quarters, among other buildings, the quiet community was animated and they rolled out drums in celebration.

Since establishment in 2003, the centre has never had it so good in terms of laboratories, research fellow residential quarters, Information and Communication Centre, ICT, and C M Y K

other modern facilities suitable for such institutions.

An elated Onu said: “I have seen clearly that Odi BioResource centre has the capacity to secure food security for this nation through domesticated technology. I have seen how technology they used to domesticate mushroom, grasscutters and others. Most importantly, there are so many plants that are not indigenous to this part of the world like ginger and others, but I have seen them grow here.

“There is no reason for us to be poor as a nation, what I have seen is a clear indication that that we can utilise science and technology as instruments to enhance food security and earn foreign exchange. This centre would provide skills and create jobs, and has tremendous potentials to influence the immediate community.

“No nation has ever developed without science and technology

and Nigeria cannot be an exception, the diversification of our economy cannot be achieved without science and technology the present administration is working hard to achieve this,” he asserted.

Bayelsa State Commissioner for

Trade and Industry, Mr Kemela Okara, Director-General of the National BioTechnology Development Agency Professor Lucy Ogbadu and the Centre Director Mr Josiah Habu accompanied him.

Speaking, Coordinating

Director of the Odi Bio-Resources Centre, Mr Josiaha Habu, said: “The centre has crucial mandate of promotion, coordination and deployment of cutting-edge biotechnology research and development process and products for socio-economic wellbeing of the nation.”

Besides, he said its mission was to develop local capacity for efficient and effective research and development, field trials and promotion of biotechnology processes and value added products towards diversifying the nation’s economy.

Coordinating Director of the Odi Bio-Resources Development Centre, Mr Josiaha Habu, pointing to an object of interest while taking the Minister of Science and Technology, Dr Ogbonnanya Onu on a tour of the centre.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 2016 —

,

S FORUM

Market performance is anticipated to remain tepid this week until the Apex Bank provides clarity as regards the proposed flexible foreign exchange regime

,

GlaxoSmithKline: Divestment creates hazy investment horizon

By Nkiruka Nnorom

T

said the divestment might affect GSK’s turnover if the money is not well utilised.

“It is going to reduce their turnover, but perhaps, if they have a better area that will bring higher profit and invest the money there, it will pay off.

“May be they have done their home work and discovered that they are not very profitable in that drink area. May be that is probably why they want to sell the business. For the company to sale that business, it means they are not competitive in that area.

Perhaps, they have another product line they want to go into that will give them more profit.”

GSK had put the time-line for the divestment at Q1 2017, during which the operations/manpower capacities of GSK’s Ribena and Lucozade Boost would be absorbed into SBF.

hefty price highly unlikely.

The second headache to the investors is the wisdom in the selling of a segment that contributed about 55 per cent of revenues and about 82 per cent of pre-tax profits. On this, inside sources said the company is aligning with its global strategic The second direction that will see it focus on pharmaceutical segment which headache to the includes, Vaccines, Anti-bacteria investors is the and prescription drug.

But presently that segment Analysts at wisdom in the appears to be less profitable in Nairametrics selling of a segment Nigeria. Though it contributed that contributed In Nigeria, GSK’s Nutritional revenues of about N9.5 billion, division which the pre-tax profit of about N444 about 55 per cent of Healthcare includes Ribena and Lucozade million represents a profit margin revenues and about Boost, generated a revenue of of just 4.6 per about N15.4 billion in 2015 and cent.

82 per cent of prebut with a subdued profit after tax Commenting tax profits on the of N1.1 billion.

Analysts at Nairametrics say if i n v e s t m e n t the sale goes the way of its UK horizon of GSK, based parent company, then GSK David Adonri, Nigeria could be in for a windfall M a n a g i n g The key drivers of the fear are of about N40 billion, adding, Director/CEO, two-fold. First, there is just a however, that GSK Nigeria with H i g h c a p ELL sentiment which began two weeks scanty information on the value a market capitalization of N21.7 Securities Ltd, ago following the inability of the of the deal as current investors billion (0.7x sales) makes such a Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, to roll out the policy for proposed flexible foreign exchange NIGERIA PLC. FY: 2015 Result -Financial Highlights (NGN Billion) market, continued throughout last week into yesterday as investors weigh the exchange rate and other risks apparent in the lingering delay in the release of the proposed policy.

Nigerian Stock Exchange, NSE, All Shares Index, ASI, weakened 1.5 per cent week-onweek, W-o-W to 27,232.62 points whilst yearto-date, YTD, return settled at -4.9 per cent.

Average volume and value traded declined 38.4 per cent and 44.1 per cent to 191.9 million units and N1.6 billion respectively.

In the same vein, Nigerian stocks closed trading on a negative note at the close of trade first day of the new week, yesterday as the ASI dropped -0.47 per cent. Market capitalization at the close of trading yesterday was N9.3 trillion. Volume of shares traded was 152,329,214.00 units.

HE future of equity investments in GlaxoSmithKline Nigeria Plc appear hazy with the impending spin-off of its dominant product lines, Ribena and Lucozade Boost, to a Japanese beverage multinational, Suntory Beverage & Food Limited, SBF. Though a bear run which had hit almost all stocks since this year also affected GSK, the intensity had heightened in the days following the announcement of the deal.

But Vanguard Investor’s Forum has assurance that shareholders would still go ahead and endorse the deal come July 04, 2016 when they are expected to approve or otherwise, at the Extra-ordinary general meeting, EGM. The share price has lost over 46 per cent year-to-date despite its high earnings multiple. GSK’s stock emerged one of the top losers at the close of transactions on the Nigerian Stock Exchange, NSE, last week, dropping by 8.95

MOBIL OIL

per cent or N1.79 to close at N18.21, and the decline is likely to continue till the fears of the future value bottoms out.

27

do not know what would be coming to them as dividend from the deal except a paltry N716 million being part proceed from the sale.

On the full amount realizable from the sale investment analysts could only peep into the similar transaction involving the two companies three years ago in the United Kingdom where GSK raked in a pricely USD2.1billion.

Stock Market Outlook (June 14 - 21)

S

Bargain hunting Analysts indicate that the negative trend would continue into next week unless CBN make good its promise to roll out the policy this week.

According to stock market analysts at Cowry Asset Management, a Lagos based investment house, this week, investors should anticipate a mixture of bargain hunting and profit taking activities.

Analysts at Afrinvest West Africa stated, “market performance is anticipated to remain tepid this week until the Apex Bank provides clarity as regards the proposed flexible foreign exchange regime”.

They also noted that the growing militancy in the Niger-Delta and its impact on oil production and export remain disturbing given the economic importance of the region.

Consequently, they advised that investors trade cautiously in the interim and maintain a medium to long term investment horizon in stocks with sound fundamentals.

28 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 2016

Local content participation hits 35%

By Ediri Ejoh

F

Refinery

Crisis looms in banks over energy sector’s rising bad loans

By Michael Eboh

T

HE Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, has warned that the rising Non-Performing Loans, NPLs, in the oil and gas sector poses serious threat to stability in the Nigerian banking system.

The CBN, in its Financial Stability Report for December 2015, released recently, disclosed that the collapse of crude oil prices and the impact on government revenues and foreign reserves portend risks to banking system stability through increase in default rates, reduction in solvency levels and volatility in exchange rates.

According to the CBN, nonperforming loans, in the period under review, rose by 3.36 per cent to N649.63 billion at endDecember 2015, from N628.54 billion at end-June 2015, representing a 78.8 per cent increase from the N363.31 billion recorded at endDecember 2014.

The NPL ratio, the CBN said, rose to 4.86 per cent from 4.65 per cent, adding that although the NPL ratio remained within the prudential ceiling of 5.0 per cent, it trended closer to the upper limit.

The CBN disclosed that a few banks have non-performing loans’ ratio above the regulatory maximum limit of 5.0 per cent, noting, however, that this would not pose significant risks to the banking industry.

According to the CBN, the Nigerian banking sector remains sound, maintaining C M Y K

capital levels well in excess of minimum prudential requirements.

Furthermore, the CBN warned that the banking system’s credit risk was expected to increase due to threats of further rise in NPLs in the oil and gas sector.

To guide against the envisaged crisis, the CBN said it increased the requirement for general provisioning on performing facilities from one per cent to two per cent with effect from November 11, 2015,

while banks were also required to maintain capital buffers above their minimum prudential requirements.”

Specifically, the CBN said, “In the reporting period, the Nigerian economy continued to witness a slowdown in growth as the persistent decline in the international price of oil led to the decline in government revenue. The decline also impacted the quality of bank assets owing to their exposure to the oil and gas sector.

“To ensure that the banking system remained safe and sound, regulatory actions were taken so that systemically important institutions operated in a manner that would limit contagion. While capital adequacy requirements were increased to provide a buffer for banks in the prevailing unfavourable economic climate, they were required to develop their various recovery and resolution plans.

Continues on page 30

Global gas demand to increase by 1.5% —IEA

By Sebastine Obasi

D

espite the current weak gas demand and low prices, the next five years will bring a reshaping of the global gas trade, the International Energy Agency (IEA) said in its 2016 Medium-Term Gas Market Report, just released. The IEA report, which gives a detailed analysis and five-year projections of natural gas demand, supply and trade developments, sees global demand rising by 1.5 percent per year by the end of the forecast period, compared with 2 percent projected in last year’s outlook. Slower primary energy demand growth and the decline in the energy intensity of the world economy are lessening demand growth for all fossil fuels, including gas. As demand growth for coal and oil also weakens, the share of gas in the energy mix is still expected to increase, albeit modestly, by 2021, the IEA stated.

It explained that new liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplies are coming online just as demand growth in some major markets weakens, resulting in major shifts in global gas trade patterns. According to the IEA, a weak outlook for Japan and Korea, the world’s top two LNG buyers means that new supplies will need to find other markets. China, India and ASEAN

countries will emerge as key buyers.

“We see massive quantities of LNG exports coming on line while, despite lower gas prices, demand continues to soften in traditional markets,” said IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol.

These contradictory trends will both impact trade and keep spot gas prices under pressure.”

Birol added that the combined factors of cheaper coal and continued strong renewables growth were blocking gas from expanding more rapidly in the power sector.

According to the IEA report, while gas demand is projected to remain weak, global LNG exports will increase substantially. Between 2015 and 2021, liquefaction capacity will increase by 45 percent, mostly from the United States and Australia. New projects in both countries have commenced ramping up production. Several others are at an advanced stage of development.

By 2021, Australia will rival Qatar as the world’s largest LNG exporter and the US will not be far behind. Fundamental developments point to oversupply in the market over the forecast horizon of this report which should keep spot gas prices across the globe under pressure: “unwanted” LNG supplies will look for a home in Europe, due to the flexibility of its gas system and well-developed spot markets.

ollowing much sensitization and involvement of local players in the oil and gas industry, the Nigerian Content policy has hit 35 percent participation, the Acting Executive Secretary, Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, NCDMB, Mr. Daziba Patrick Obah said.

Obah, who stated this at the just concluded visit of a 20-man delegation from Uganda to the NCDMB, also said that the Board’s interventions were expected to increase local content levels to about 50 percent by 2017.

While welcoming the delegation, the Acting Executive Secretary, commended the Ugandan Government for identifying Nigeria as a shining example in the implementation of local content, adding that “other African countries like Kenya and Congo Brazzaville had also sought Nigeria’s mentorship of their local content initiatives.”

He also lauded the Ugandan officials for deciding to institutionalise local content at the onset of their oil and gas industry as it would guarantee tangible benefits for their citizens aside the revenue that would accrue from the sale of crude oil and gas.

He stated that “Nigerian Content had helped the government and its people to reverse the flight of industry spend to foreign countries in the form of personnel, materials, equipment, fabrication and engineering designs.”

He further explained that the Nigerian Government was the driving force behind the implementation process, stressing that strong political will was necessary to overcome powerful forces opposing the implementation of local content.

He urged the Ugandans to develop robust regulations that are applicable to the state of their industry and technological base while encouraging collaboration with local and international stakeholders to domicile capacity in-country.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 2016 — 29

Why Africa’s power problems persist, by stakeholders

By Ediri Ejoh

S

TAKEHOLDERS at the World Economy Forum on Africa, recently held in Kigali, Rwanda, have identified inadequate financing, policy inconsitency and bureaucratic bottlenecks as some of the major problems confronting power supply in Africa. .

Speaking on the sidelines of Africa’s power sector, which was a major discuss, Vice Chairman, General Electric, GE, John Rice, said that there were some well-intentioned initiatives geared towards meeting the energy gaps, but challenges related to financing, bureaucracy, traditional risk analysis, and decision-making based on election cycles have led to delays.

Citing the case of United States-backed Power Africa initiative, which was launched in 2013 by President Barack Obama with a view to “double access to power in sub-Saharan Africa”, he said, “Power Africa, supported by a host of governments and private sector players, has an ambitious goal of adding 30,000MW of electricity. “But, so far the number of megawatts added onto the grid directly related to the initiative is very little”.

Identifying poor electricity access as constraint to businesses and the country’s economy growth, President of the African Development Bank, AfDB, Akinwumi Adesina, noted that Africa “cannot industrialise” without improving power generation capacity. Adesina also said that over the next decade Africa must strive to attain ‘universal access

to electricity’.

He explained that “We have got to be so impatient with moving Africa forward relentlessly. We have no choice.

In 2025, there is absolutely no reason why Africa should not be totally lit up with the power it needs to industrialise, because we must not forget, no economy ever develops unless you have the base load power to drive industries and be competitive.”

On his part, Group Chief Executive Officer, Oando, Adewale Tinubu, reckons Africa is “potentially the largest power market in the world”, based on available resources and demand for electricity.

“We are losing a wonderful opportunity to leapfrog out of poverty by not having a more sustainable or robust energy policy, and I think, without a doubt, the biggest challenge we

have to economic growth is really our poor consumption of energy, and invariably our very expensive consumption of energy. “We are never going to become an exporting continent until we lower our cost of energy and we take advantage of these different [energy] sources, as the development of more

We are never going to become an exporting continent until we lower our cost of energy and take advantage of different energy sources

H

OST Communities of Nigeria, Producing Oil and Gas (HOSTCON) has called on the Federal Government, the Niger Delta Avengers and other militant groups in the Niger Delta to immediately adhere to a one-month ceasefire to allow for dialogue among all stakeholders on ways to address the crisis in the region.

Hostcon, in a statement by its National Executive Chairman, Mr. Mike Emuh, after an emergency meeting of its Elders Advisory Council in Abuja, however, commended the Federal Government for all its current efforts aimed at achieving permanent peace in the region, while he urged citizens of the Niger Delta to tow the same line.

The group also called on the international oil companies, the Nigerian Petroleum Development Company, NPDC, Nigerian National

Private sector’s involvement He further noted that the private sector can play a significant role in power generation, but with a friendly business environment, citing example of Nigeria that has become reliant on private diesel generators, which are pricier to operate, compared to industrial power. “What was missing was having an enabling environment, which the government has finally realised

Power station

PIPELINE BOMBINGS: Oil communities call for one month ceasefire

By Michael Eboh

regional mega-projects in the continent is necessary for growth in the sector.”

“Although there has been some momentum in developing power projects in recent years, sub-Saharan Africa still has a long way to go with hundreds of millions of people not having access to grid-connected electricity.”

Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, all oil block holders, Amnesty Office, ministries of Niger Delta and Environment and all oil producing development commission, to partner with HOSTCON in other to find a lasting solution to the crisis in the Niger Delta region.

The group insisted that pipeline surveillance contracts should be awarded oil producing and impacted community all over the country, while he also advocated utilization of 100 per cent of the amnesty budget for the empowerment of former militants that had laid down their arms.

The statement read further, “At the end of meeting, the National Executive of HOSTCON requested the Federal Government to allow implementation of the

following critical point as part of dialogue: “All international oil companies to relocate their headquarters to their states of operations; reopening of the closed down Maritime University, Okerekoko within this period; to urge all to sheath their sword and give room for dialogue; while the Federal Government should pronounce immunity for the Niger Delta Avengers within this period in order to promote peace.

“Oil producing communities and kingdom traditional rulers, retired senior army, navy and police officers, President-Generals of communities, ethnic nationalities youth leaders, mothers and leaders of thought and HOSTCON executives to dialogue with the NDA and the Federal Government through the Host Communities Producing Oil and Gas.”

and has privatised the power system, liberalised tariffs and in the process we are now seeing the private sector getting involved in building new power plants, and we are now attracting global capital.

“The difference is, power is now seen as a business opportunity for investors to make a return. People now have access to cheaper power than when the government was subsidising and [was] unable to meet that demand,” said Tinubu.

Developing projects However, Jasandra Nyker, Chief Executive Officer of BioTherm Energy, a Southern Africa-focused investor in energy projects, called for a greater sense of urgency in developing projects.

He said, “When I talk sense of urgency, I see projects needing to happen in the next two to three years. In my company, we moved from site identification, to providing power to the grid, it took us 36 months and we did that twice.

So if a small company like mine can do that, I think more and more players out there can actually do it.” On local content, he added that her company was able to complete projects swiftly by working with surrounding communities to avoid conflicts over land. “The community understood what was being done, how it would be done, and when benefits would accrue to them.

BioTherm also managed expectations, and ensured the project was bankable from day one,” she added.

Chevron develops strategies to end gas-flaring in Nigeria

By Prince Okafor

I

n response to global initiatives against climate change and putting gas flaring to zero, Chevron Nigeria Limited has developed and is implementing a strategy towards eliminating flared gas in Nigeria.

This was made known by the Chairman and Managing Director, CNL, Mr. Clay Neff, during the global celebration of World Environment Day, with theme on the illegal trade in wildlife under the slogan ‘Go Wild for Life’ Zero Tolerance For The Illegal Wildlife Trade.

The strategy, according to the MD, includes “the execution of the three-phased Escravos Gas Project, EGP, the Escravos Gasto-Liquids project, EGTL, and the West African Gas Pipeline project, WAGP, all aimed at ending routine gas flaring in its operations, while delivering other important values for Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation, NNC, and CNL.”

The World Environment Day, WED, is celebrated globally each year on June 5 to stimulate awareness of the environment and encourage political attention and action. “The interaction between our capital projects and wildlife is regularly assessed and monitored. We ensure that appropriate mitigation steps are taken, where necessary, as part of the expectations of our Environmental, Social and Health Impact Assessment, ESHIA Process.

“The ESHIA, or local Environmental Impact Assessment, EIA, involves broad participation by the regulators, local communities and other relevant stakeholders. The process ensures that our projects are carried out with due consideration to human health and for environmental protection including wildlife. For deepwater seismic activities, we have an established process for protecting marine life by utilizing the services of Marine Mammal Observer, MMO,” he stated.

30 — VANGUARD, TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 2016

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 2016—31

Ambode: A humanist and pragmatist at 53

By Habib Aruna

Hopes fading for Buhari’s govt, unless••

By Hector-Roosevelt Ukegbu

E

ARLY last year, in the run-up to the 2015 general elections, this writer argued in two newspaper articles that Nigerians should vote for then presidential candidate Muhammadu Buhari and against Dr. Goodluck Jonathan and the then-ruling PDP. I pointed to the massive systemic corruption in the Jonathan government and how this was seriously impeding economic growth and miring the hapless citizens in poverty. I called the entire Nigerian government system a vast criminal enterprise. In truth, my whole premise of advocating support for Mr. Buhari was not for his vaunted economic management skills, but for his selfdiscipline, for his circumspect way of life, for his nationalism. My belief was and still is, that Mr. Buhari was the lone person in Nigeria’s political firmament capable of slaying the hydra-headed monster called Nigerian corruption. My belief remains that if corruption is crushed, economic recovery will come, and so will improve all other indices of human growth among the people.

The crash in world oil prices has thrown a wrench in the wheel of Nigeria’s economic recovery even as the battle against corruption proceeds. It pains me, as I am sure it pains lovers of the Nigerian people, that the Buhari/APC government appears to be willy-nilly trying to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory. The people are groaning under the unfamiliar burdens of severe fuel scarcity (something that the Jonathan government had largely gotten rid of in the recent past). They also contend with declining electricity generation, making worse an output that was already abysmal (reportedly from sabotage of gas pipelines that send feedstock to generating plants), and serious shortages of hard currency (due to reduced oil export revenue inflows).

Which way out now for the Buhari/APC government? What to do so that this new government does not continue to fritter away this golden opportunity it has to turn around the fortunes of Nigeria, to return the country to the greatness that it has not had since the military-rule era of the 1970s.

In 2005 (I apologize if this makes me sound like a b r o k e n record), I Buhari should submitted a tear up this 2016 paper to the O b a s a n j o Budget or operate government, it by omission. a paper that was recycled Mr. Fashola to the Umaru should only be Ya r ’ A d u a , J o n a t h a n , the Minister for and now the Power, and ignore B u h a r i Works and government.

That paper Housing started off by saying that Nigeria should operate as an economy that has no oil. That all oil export receipts should be devoted solely to economic and social infrastructure, security, and to fuel an export drive. The paper detailed a plan to achieve the massive export of manufactured goods within just four years.

The paper advocated that Nigerian governments should operate their noninfrastructure and non-security budgets only on what they receive as taxes and fees from the citizens and companies.

The paper made the point that if Nigerian federal and state governments depended only on income taxes and C M Y K

Map of Nigeria corporate taxes for their operations, it would be hard for any politician or government official to steal those monies.

I warned that there will come a day when oil prices will get too low, or oil would be substituted with other products (think: electric cars, hydrogen fuel cells, etc.) and Nigeria would be suddenly deprived of its lifeblood - petroleum earnings.

None of these governments took my advice, preferring to borrow one or two things from the strategy and going about their business as usual. My suggestion?

You have just got to wipe the slate clean and start afresh. There are some real talents in that government, notably Works, Housing and Power minister, former Lagos governor Mr. Babatunde Fashola, and Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, the de facto oil minister. The problem is that the two men are working on a faulty governance infrastructure. Another problem is that Buhari appears to be his own economy minister.

Manufacturing for export The APC government of President Buhari cannot fulfill its promise of a change of Nigeria’s fortunes the way the whole thing is set up. You cannot hope to succeed if you don’t completely trash the infrastructure of the previous governments and start on a new platform. You can’t follow the old paradigm and expect to succeed in a transformative way. What to do?

The government should maintain the policy of not selling foreign exchange to any company or individual not importing a product or commodity that could be used for manufacturing for export or for import substitution.

Which brings us to the question of governance infrastructure. This policy outlined above cannot work with the present setup of governance in Nigeria.

President Buhari has to go before the Nigerian people and make the case that things have to change so that he can improve the lives of Nigerians. He should tear up this 2016 Budget or operate it by omission. Mr. Fashola should only be the Minister for Power, and ignore Works and Housing. For the next one year all the money allocated to his ministry should be spent only on electricity. Indeed President Buhari should devote his attention to only three areas: Electricity, Defence and Police.

The government should build no railways, no roads, no bridges, no houses.

The nation can manage with the present roads, but can’t do without electricity to power households and industry. The government should not give any money to help the unemployed, the government should not spend any money training people to become entrepreneurs, the government should not spend any money to revive any economic sector, for instance textiles.

•Ukegbu is director at International Research Group, a division of Accrezion Corporation, in the United States.

D

URING the governorship campaign in 2015, the then candidate of All Progressive Congress (APC) in Lagos State, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode, came out with an instructive advert: Let my experience work for you. In the said advert, which was placed in major national dailies, Ambode explicitly came out with his intimidating credentials and the experience he gathered during his years in the Civil Service, when he left Alausa and went back to school in the United States and came back home to become a public finance expert.

It was, therefore, not a surprise that few days to his first anniversary as the Governor of Lagos State, some notable members of the National Assembly from the state, placed a centre-spread advert in the dailies to remind the electorate that they made the right choice by voting for Ambode. In the advert that was rightly captioned: ‘We say thank you Lagosians, his experience is working for you’, the lawmakers enumerated the giant strides the state has recorded in the past year, and t h a t despite t h e economic uncertainty in the c o u n t r y, the state under the leadership Gov. Ambode o f Ambode, is on a sound footing for growth and development.

In truth, for some of us working with him at close range, it’s not too difficult to see the humanity, simplicity, compassion, pragmatism, discipline and courage in him. When we were disturbed few months after he came to power with negative media reports and slow pace of governance, the governor would always remind us that we are on a marathon race and not a sprint; he would tell us that it has always been his nature to be underrated. “Just wait and see”, he would say with a smile. And while it has been difficult to keep pace with him, we find solace in what the National Leader of the APC, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu said of the governor during the launch of the BRT buses last year: “Ambode does not believe there is no solution to a problem; he believes there is always a solution to every problem”.

His administration is about to convert Oshodi into what he calls “world-class transportation and commercial hub.”

The more challenging term he used is “regeneration of Oshodi.” The area would witness the consolidation of all the 13 parks into three multi-storey bus parks and terminals to stand on four floors. There would be shopping mall, recreation points, bus lanes, laybys, green parks to soften the environment, proper waste management, fencing and – wait for this – a dedicated fully kitted security team for Oshodi.

The compassionate governance philosophy has seen Ambode launch an unprecedented move to allay the security concerns of the citizens when within six months, he gave more than

N6.6bn to equip the Police and other security agencies with armored tanks, brand new power bikes and scores of squad cars for Special Operation Services (SOS) for community policing. He has also launched an aerial policing of Lagos by donating three helicopters to the Nigeria Police Command in the state. He further launched a world class rescue operation unit, the first of its kind in Nigeria.

Closely knit to these is a radical road infrastructure development leading to the construction and renovation of more than 500 roads in the state and 114 link roads in all the local councils and the Light-up Lagos Project meant to banish darkness from every corner of the state. In a pragmatic approach to massively reduce unemployment and empower fresh graduates, artisans and the youths, the governor launched the N25bn Employment Trust Fund (ETF) to ensure capital for start-up of small scale businesses with very minimal interest rate and also signed MoU with Kebbi State to ensure self sufficiency in food production thereby drastically reducing importation of rice and other food items. This will equally boost Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

And just before the first anniversary, Ambode again did what many considered an uphill task with the signing of an N844bn Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to construct the Fourth Mainland Bridge. The bridge that is expected to be completed between three and four years, would go a long way in

His administration is about to convert Oshodi into what he calls world-class transportation and commercial hub changing the transportation system in the state. Instructively too, these achievements are anchored on the core pillar of his manifesto, which is Security, Infrastructure and Youth Empowerment. Beginning with when young Akinwunmi Ambode emerged with 2nd Best Result in the Higher School Certificate Examination in the whole of West Africa, and he has since not dropped down from the Olympian Heights.

Ambode retired at 49, becoming the first Permanent Secretary and Accountant General to do so voluntarily. He thereafter founded Brandsmiths Consulting Limited to provide Public Finance and Management Consulting services to government at all levels, its parastatals and agencies.

He went into politics the same year and introduced a fresh element of grassroots campaign that remains the talk of the town more than a year after.

Ambode struck an uncanny affinity with those he came in contact with, assuring them that he would partner with their creative ideas to forge a people-oriented society.

As you clock 53 today, the people are felicitating with you and wishing you well as you churn out more of your great signature projects. Happy birthday sir!

•Aruna is the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Ambode

32 —Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 2016

LEISURE

YOUR LUCK TODAY

By Joshua Adeyemo Phone 08056180139 LIBRA; Take note that others may break promises made before early afternoon period; that is to say you should not take anybody for granted before 12.43pm.

SCORPIO; Although friends are willing to assist you circumstances may not allow complete help as expected.

9.46am to 12.43pm can be a bit sensitive…..

SAGITTARIUS; Emphasis will continue to be on career related issues. However you will not be wrong if you take matters-of-the-heart more seriously now. Be more loving.

CAPRICORN; Mid-morning till early afternoon period may bring more promises than it can actually deliver; your being clever will see you through. Be very practical.

AQUARIUS; Continue to attach necessary importance to your family values. Here is a day when joint ventures can bring you under pressure between 9.46am and 12.43pm.

THOUGHT FOR TODAY

By Richard Eromosele

O

NE of the greatest fallacies mankind is saddled with is the belief that the rich don’t cry. But my questions are: why should the

So, The Rich Also Cry? rich cry? Is the rich not a human being? Has he no feelings? Does he not eat? Does he got not go to the

TERROR MUDA

toilet? has he no blood running in his vein? Does he have more than one head?

I pity the rich

in “Never say goodbye”

man. He wants companionship, yet, no one is ready to offer him any, because, everybody sees him as self-sufficient in everything.

By Kola Fayemi

PISCES; Other people will continue to feature in your activities; that is to say you will need to be as co-operative as reason permits. Watch it between 9.46am&12.43pm ARIES; You will be in good position to consolidate on progress made yesterday. However you will need to watch your mood from 9.46am to 12.43pm.

TAURUS; It is important you don’t take things for granted around mid-morning and early afternoon period so that you will not run into avoidable disappointments.

GEMINI; If you are in position to control your actions you would fare better if you can wait till after 12,43pm before you make an important move. Be family minded.

CANCER; Your being receptive can enhance your prospects but that is not to say you have to be naïve, especially during mid-morning and early afternoon periods.

KAPTAIN AFRIKA

in

“Pretty Lunatic’

By Andy Akman

LEO; Success is boldly printed on your cards and like yesterday if priority attention is given to money the scope of your success will be wider.

VIRGO; Although things may be happening around you, you are the right person to make things happen and give others opportunities.. Be wise.

ASTROLOGICAL COUNSELLING Send yyour our dat tr ological datee and place of bir th ttoo the As Astr trological Counselling, PP.M.B .M.B 1100 00 7, Apapa, Lagos 007,

What is my Sagittarius?

Dear Joshua, I want you to tell me characteristics of my Star; Sagittarius as you have done to others.

Ezekiel, Ibadan.

Dear Ezekiel, BASIC CHARACTERISTICS OF SAGITTARIUS Sagittarius is a mutable sign by its quality. It‘s element is fire, symbolised by half horse half man and/or an Archer aiming at the sky. Mutable means changes and experimentation, while fire is all about enthusiasm, taking of the initiative and leadership ability. Thus, you are the type that will exhibit strong interest in an important project that catches your fancy and you will not mind to experiment with ideas just to achieve your objectives and aims. Sagittarius is the 9th sign of the Zodiac that rules philosophy, RELIGION, law, foreign land, higher mind/higher institutions, lawyer, long (distance) travelling, in-laws, future, optimism and bluntness. Major problem or weak points of Sagittarians are excessive openness/bluntness and sometimes fanatical approach to religion.

Being a born adventurer, you are not afraid of exploration and new beginning. Sagittarians are incurable optimist and ever ready to listen to and eager to believe others; you are not an exception. Honesty is truly in your inner self You are a tolerant person but you are not ready to compromise your FREEDOM Sagittarius as a fire sign can make you a quick tempered person. Half horse half man as the symbol, of Sagittarius indicates dual (double) personalities known in different circle with different personalities. Yet, you are not a pretender. As the Archer aims arrow into the sky also Sagittarians have many lofty ideas and ambition. But sometimes their ideas and/or ideals are not practical enough for realisation. Many times, they start too many things at a time only to either forget or lose view of their original targets.

Development of practical approach is more important for Sagittarians, this is in order to make success of many of their brilliant ideas, otherwise they tend to become dreamers. In reality, Sagittarians are dreamers (by this 1 mean real dream many use to have at night) and many of their dreams usually come to pass. Sometimes their dreams are vividly prophetic.

Sagittarians are born philosophers, that is why they have well developed minds indispensable to rare wisdom. Then, you are humorous, lively, sports loving out going, energetic, good hearted, in love with experimentation, ever willing to co-operate, socially inclined, enthusiastic and highly intelligent. As intelligent as you are, you can surprisingly appear fanatical about your believe and/or views.

VIRGINIA

HOME & ABROAD

dadadekola@yahoo.com

By Lawrence Akapa

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 2016—33

Battle for Muri Munene of Calabar moves to S-Court

C

By Emma Una

ALABAR—TUSSLE for the Muri Munene stool, the Paramount Ruler of the Efuts in Calabar, Cross River State has moved to the Supreme Court after one of the claimants to the throne, Muri Effiong Mbukpa, expressed dissatisfaction with the ruling of the Appeal Court sitting in Calabar on the protracted contest for the post.

In the appeal at the Supreme Court in Abuja by his counsel, Chief Fidelis Onyebueke, Muri Effiong Mbukpa, said he was dissatisfied with the ruling of the Appeal Court, which failed to quash a letter written by the Cross River State Government ordering for another selection exercise after he had been enthroned by kingmakers in the kingdom.

He is contending in the appeal that “the Appeal Court said the letter by the Cross River State Government was merely administrative which cannot be quashed, so for the lower court to dismiss the appeal means that the Government of Cross River State has business in the selection of Muri Munene contrary to Section 20 of the Traditional Rulers Laws of Cross River State 2004.”

According to the appellant, by

Sections 20 and 22 of the Traditional Rulers Law 2004, the Cross River State Government has no business in the selection of Muri Munene. “The Muri Munene is the natural ruler of the Efuts in Calabar South and is mentioned among the rulers that Government of Cross River State has no business in its selection.”

He said the Appeal Court erred in law when it held that the letter of “September 18, 2012 was purely an administrative act which cannot be quashed by certiorari proceedings contrary to the Supreme Court’s decision in JSC Cross River State vs Young (2013).”

Muri Effiong Mbukpa stated that the decision of the

Government of Cross River State to set up a panel to inquire into the Muri Munene stool was a breach of the law of Traditional Rulers Institution of 2004.

He accordingly urged the Supreme Court to set aside the judgment of the Appeal Court and also quash the letter by the Cross River State Government ordering another selection of the Muri Munene.

VISIT: From left: Sen. Emmanuel Essien; Minister of Transportation, Mr Chibuike Amaechi; Minister of Environment, Hajiya Amina Muhammed; Minister of Informantion and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed; Gov. Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom; Minister of Budget and National Planning, Sen. Udoma Udo Udoma; Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom, Chief Moses Ekpo, Minister of Niger Delta Afairs, Pastor Usani Usani, during their visit to Akwa Ibom Government House in Uyo, yesterday. Photo: NAN

Okowa swears in new HoS, charges public sector on good governance

A

By Festus Ahon

SABA—DELTA State governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, yesterday, swore-in, Mr Reginald Bayoko as the 11th state’s Head of Service, HoS. Okowa who spoke during the swearing-in ceremony which took place at the Government House, Asaba, noted that public sector must be driven by the principles and values of good governance and professionalism.

He said: “We are desirous of a public sector driven by the principles and values of good governance, professionalism, transparency, fiscal discipline, timely and excellent service delivery and zero tolerance for corruption.

“I don’t think there is anybody who does not agree that the rank and file of the civil service need a paradigm shift, this shift is needed more in the attitude and orientation of the workforce.

“I make bold to say that the civil service has never lacked qualified personnel. I believe we have enough of them in the system but, I must say, many civil servants are just not committed to their work which has led to absenteeism, unethical conduct, sharp practices and the ghost workers syndrome.”

Congratulating Mr Reginald Bayoko on his emergence as the Head of Service of the state, Okowa tasked him to pursue an aggressive orientation for the workforce so that they could C M Y K

appreciate and key into the policy plans of the administration in order to achieve their stated goals of job creation, inclusive economic growth and sustainable development.

“As Head of Service, your role

in this vision is to build an efficient, disciplined and performance-driven civil service, critical to the successful implementation of our S.M.A.R.T agenda,” Okowa said.

He eulogized the immediate

past Head of Service, Mr Patrick Origho for his faithful service to the state, not just as Head of Service but as a civil servant who played his part in moving the state forward and thanked him for his contribution to the growth of the state.

N-DELTA CRISIS: FG advised against

selective negotiation

P

By Jimitota Onoyume

ORT HARCOURT—THE Federal Government has been urged to avoid selective negotiation with groups in the Niger Delta if it was genuinely willing to end insurgency in the region.

President, Niger Delta NonViolence Youth Leaders Assembly, Mr Kennedy West in a statement yesterday in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, said that

the government should also review the Ledum Mitee technical committee report and other similar recommendations for implementation to end challenges of underdevelopment which gives rise to endless militancy in the region.

The statement by Dr Felix Tuodolor, also called for the passage of Nigerian Merchant Navy Bill into law to enhance security on the waterways,

adding that government should stimulate robust economy in the region with the establishment of three seaports in the area.

Urging the Minister of State for Petroleum, Dr Ibe Kachikwu to look at why international oil companies were failing in their corporate social responsibilities to their host communities and how best to resolve the problem, the group said government should pay up all outstanding debts for the pipeline surveillance contract.

Court restrains Olaja-Ori of Ugborodo, community, addding that such Omadeli, others acts could lead to total ELECTION:

W

ARRI— A Federal High Court sitting in Warri, Delta State, has restrained the Olaja-Ori of Ugborodo, Benson Omadeli and others, “or their agents, servants or privies from conducting any election into the Governing Council of the Ugborodo Community Trust or appoint any persons in any manner whatsoever into the Executive or Management arm

of the Trust, in whatever capacity or designation until the substantive suit is determined.”

Trial judge, Justice E. Obile in the suit also awarded N50,000 cost against Omadeli.

According to Justice Obile, the refusal of the court to grant an order of interlocutory injunction sought by the applicants will lead to a situation where there might be chaos or disturbances in the society or in particular Ugborodo

breakdown of law or order in Ugborodo community.

“I need to stress here that, one of the primary functions of the court is to see that law and order reign supreme in the society.

Consequently, every decision of any court must be geared towards the maintenance of law and order, and not to cause confusion, bloodshed, state of disorder, or anarchy or chaos in the society," Justice Obile said.

DELTA CONGRESS:

Agbon PDP stakeholders call for internal democracy

O

By Onozure Dania

RHOAKPO—THE Agbon Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, stakeholders, yesterday, at Orhoakpo, Ethiope East Local Government Area of Delta State called for transparent and internal democracy for the party to win all its subsequent elections in the council.

The PDP stakeholders meeting, convened by the state Commissioner for Culture and Industry, May Iyasere, called for unity among the PDP family, while urging members to shun pull-himdown syndrome.

The meeting witnessed a protest by leaders from Agbon 8 wards, Chief Young Esiekpe, Chief Michael Adiotomre, Tony Oboroh, Arthur Akpowowo, Mr. Love Ojakovo and others, who appealed to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa to direct the state party chairman to return the council party chairman to Agbon.

Govts tasked on skills acquisition education policy for undergraduates

S

By Godwin Oghre

APELE—IN a bid to address the unemployment in the country, a Delta State-based accountant, Mr Michael Eyide, has called on President Muhammadu Buhari and the state governors to initiate educational policies aimed at providing practical skill acquisition training for undergraduates that will prepare them for self employment when they leave school.

Eyide said: “Such educational policies will occasion the proliferation of small and medium scale enterprises which are the hallmarks of infrastructural development of any country.

Wealth can only be created through job creation and poverty and criminality can only be eradicated through employment for the youths.

“Again, improved electricity power generation and distribution across the country is essential to development and in stabilizing the nation’s economy."

34—Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 2016

Grazing Bill: Anambra Assembly backs out

PDP chieftain commends FG cease-fire in Niger Delta region

By Enyim Enyim

O

NITSHA—ANAMBRA State House of Assembly has backed out of the proposed Grazing Bill expected to be presented to the state House of Assembly for debate and approval.

Every state legislature is expected to have 2/3 majority to pass the bill or otherwise.

By Elizabeth Uwandu

A

POLITICAL stalwart and PDP Chieftain in Delta State, Olorogun Okwagbe has hailed the two-week ceasefire by the Federal Government on militants in the Niger Delta region, as he quickly urged the Niger Delta Avengers to use the opportunity to table their grievances.

In a press statement, Chief Okwagbe commended the Federal Government for calling the ceasefire, as he urged the militants to embrace dialogue to address their grievances and fashion out a way forward for the benefit of all interests.

He added said that the people had suffered termendously and one could not deny the fact that there are lots of issues on ground about the injustice that the people of the region had suffered.

He urged the Federal Government to match word with actions by calling on all stakeholders, militants and regional leaders to a round table to find the way forward.

Okwagbe stressed that Federal Government should not politicize the talks, but invest on the intelligence arm of the nation’s security network to overcome the current security challenges in the Niger Delta and the country in general.

Speaker of the Anambra State House of Assembly, Mrs. Rita Maduagwu stated this while briefing newsmen on her score card in the past one year in office being marked today (Tuesday).

She said the stakeholders, elders, the clergy and the Anambra league of professionals had roundly kicked against the bill and advised the legislative chamber to distance itself from it

in the interest of the citizenry and the lgbo race in general. “ The Anambra State league of professionals recently came from Lagos to see us and advised us not to support the grazing bill because of the implications and who are we say no if the people of Anambra State have spoken.”

Maduagwu said that within the past one year under her watch as speaker of the Anambra State

House of Assembly, four bills had been passed as well as 10 amended bills.

She thanked the state governor, Chief Willie Obiano for giving the lawmakers enabling environment to function as an arm of government, adding that there had been cordial relationship between the executive and the legislature.

Crisis-ridden Abia APC reconciles, vows to take over Abia Govt House

By Anayo Okoli

U

M UA H I A — T H E lingering leadership crisis that had bedeviled Abia state chapter of the All Progressives Congress, APC, has been resolved, with the two factions coming together to pursue a common goal of taking control of Abia in 2019.

This followed a peace meeting brokered by the zonal leadership of the party, which brought the two factions together and harmonized offices in the state executive committee of the party.

The peace meeting brought together some leaders and stakeholders of the party, including Chief Ikechi Emenike, Senator Nkechi Nwogu, Fabian Nwankwo, Hon. Acho Obioma and the party ’s 2015 governorship candidate, Chief Nyerere Anyim, among others, who all resolved to bury their differences and work together

and reposition the party ahead of 2019 elections.

The harmonization saw Chief Donatus Nwankpa retaining his office as the state chairman, while chairman of the other faction, Mr. Fabian Okonkwo now functioned as the party’s zonal organizing secretary.

The South East National Vice-

chairman of the party, Chief Emma Enukwu, who presided over the reconciliation meeting, stressed that Abia APC needed the support of every member in order to win Abia State in 2019.

“The assignment of the state chairman and his new executives is to work hard to ensure that we take over Abia state in 2019,”

Enukwu charged them.

In his remarks, Nyerere Anyim said: “Henceforth, no more Emenike group and Nyerere group. We are brothers; we are together.” He charged the new state executive of the party to move the party forward with the zeal they started the party.

Abia govt begins free feeding in primary schools

By Anayo Okoli

U

MUAHIA—ABIA State government has kicked off a free primary schools lunch programme aimed at giving the pupils free meal daily in all public primary schools.

The programme, according to the government, would help “meet the basic nutritional needs of children and expand the opportunity to reach their full potential and significantly enhance the academic

performance of the children.”

The programme is to feed a total number of 136, 258 pupils, who will consume 408, 774 fresh eggs, 51, 09, 670 grammes of ofada rice and 68, 120, 000 grammes of beans, weekly.

Flagging off the first phase of the programme at Ntigha primary school in Isiala Ngwa North council, weekend, Governor Ikpeazu said the initiative was borne out of a genuine desire to invest in children who are the future leaders.

He said that he understood what it meant to go to school on an empty stomach as well as the pains some parents went through to provide meals for their children, saying that under the scheme, every pupil in Abia was sure of at least one meal a day.

Ikpeazu lamented tons of food that end up in the dust bin on daily basis by the affluent while some children go hungry due to lack and stressed the need to bridge the gap. He pledged to sustain the programme.

NEMA calls for probe into cult clashes in Ohaji/Egbema

By Chidi Nkwopara

O

WERRI—THE National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, has urged Imo State government to set up a commission of inquiry on the incessant killings in some communities in Ohaji/Egbema local council area of the state, by rival cult groups.

The NEMA Coordinator, Owerri Operations Office, Mr. Evans Ugoh, who made the call, yesterday, during the agency’s assessment visit to Umuobi and Obile autonomous communities in the embattled local council area, also lamented that the affected communities had remained deserted since the recent clash started more than

three months ago.

“It is sad to note that on the eve of this year’s Easter celebration, two rival cult groups clashed in Obile autonomous community, which led to the killing of 11 people, including a man and his pregnant wife,” Ugoh said.

Continuing, the NEMA Coordinator equally recalled that cult groups had since then

continued to lay palpable siege in the area, which led most of the people to take refuge in neighbouring communities.

“The situation shut down schools, hospitals, farming and other economic activities. Our careful assessment showed that no fewer than 100,000 persons have been displaced within the period of the clash,” Ugoh said.

By Bartholomew Madukwe (08051019450) nwamad@yahoo.com

PEOPLE SPEAK

On death of NFF TTechnical echnical Direct or Director or,, Amodu Shuaibu

K

eshi and Amodu are victims of corruption in the system, there are millions unknown and unsung that have been killed through the greed and selfishness of our so-called leaders. All hands must be on deck to eradicate corruption in our land. -Miss Chinasa Ukogu, Singer C M Y K

T

he death of both Keshi and Amodu tell a very sorry tale of the state of healthcare and medical emergency response in Nigeria. Keshi was said to complain of irregular heartbeats before he had cardiac arrest and later died. Miss Regina Osakwe, Worker

T

he shocking sudden death of two Nigeria’s highly rated coaches is not ordinary. Hope some evil minded opportunists at the Glass House are not involved remotely? African voodoo may be at play there against these too patriotic stars. -Mr. Abiodun Aremu, Employed

P

lease, all our former players and coaches should keep off from Benin.

Something is definitely wrong with that city. Both Keshi and Amodu had minor complaints, and the next thing, they dropped dead. This is no coincidence. -Miss Joy Amos, Businesswoman

I

want to believe, as a Muslim, that it is ordained where one will die and where one will be born.

It is then ordained that Amodu Shuaibu and Stephen Keshi would die at the time they both did.

-Miss Mercy Amamchinefe, Graduate

T

he mysterious deaths of our ex-footballers and coaches in our land (Benin), Nigeria, is really shocking. May God Almighty have mercy on us, as He comforts the immediate bereaved families and our nation? -Mr. Martins Ifeanyi, Self Employed

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 2016 — 35

Youths from 17 Plateau LGs tackle Lalong over planned grazing reserves

By Marie-Therese Nanlong exclusive privileges to any group gathered to peacefully protest the

J

OS—ANGRY youths from the 17 local government areas of Plateau State, stormed Plateau State Government House, protesting against Governor Simon Lalong’s alleged plan to make land available for the controversial grazing reserve project without consultation with the people.

Operating on the platform of “Plateau G-17 Youths for Peace and Progress Forum”, the youths who during the protest occupied the entrance of the Government House, Rayfield, called on the government to rethink and retrace its step and delist Plateau from the states that had agreed to contribute land for grazing reserve.

According to the protesters, such would be in keeping with the mood of the majority of citizens of the state as well as demonstrate government’s responsiveness to the wishes of the people on the matter.

Speaking with journalists, leader of the group, Dachung Bagos, said: “The Plateau State government must be careful not to take decision that could mortgage our future and that of generations yet unborn with the likely consequences of further throwing the state into chaos as the policy has been rejected by majority of the people of the state.

We wish to state, unequivocally that we are protesting against any form of land grabbing and

under the guise of a governmentsponsored grazing reserve policy.

The Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Audu Ogbe, said Plateau State is among other states that have agreed to contribute land for the purpose of the establishment of grazing reserves for cattle herders.

“From time immemorial, from the period of agriculture to the period of industrial development, land has remained the most valuable property in the life of a man and his development. It is a source of wealth to those who have it and the mother of all property.

It is in response of this that we are

unilateral inclusion of Plateau State and demand that the state government under Governor Simon Lalong, rescind its decision on this obnoxious policy and follow the path of honour by removing Plateau from the list owing to the huge disadvantages the policy will have on the vast majority of the peace loving Plateau indigenes, who are predominantly farmers.”

He added that: “Plateau has over the years witnessed incessant attacks and killings by groups known in official cycles as unknown herdsmen and should not be plunged into more

bloodletting due to the insensitivity of government in embracing a policy that has heightened suspicion and tension across the state. ''Government must thread with utmost caution in view of the delicate nature of the policy at hand, which must be properly looked into and people should be allowed to either accept or reject it.

“We expect the government to seek support for the expansion of existing agricultural schemes in the state as a way of diversifying its economy rather than endorsing a controversial policy that will favour businessmen, who are pre dominantly not natives of Plateau State.”

V I S I T: From left; Sandy Eyal, N t e l customer; Dr. Tunde Ayeni, Chairman, Ntel and Olujinmi Tella, GM Sales Lagos, when the Chairman paid a visit to the Ntel flagship shop in Ikoyi, yesterday.

MASS SACK: You are unpatriotic, Ngige lashes NECA

By Victor Ahiuma-Young

A

BUJA—MINISTER of Labour and Employment, Senator Chris Ngige has described as irresponsible and unpatriotic the reaction of the Nigeria Employers Consultative Assembly, NECA, through its Director General, Mr. Segun Oshinowo to the directive of the Federal Government to banks and others to halt the mass retrenchment of workers pending the outcome of a stakeholders’ meeting in the first week of July.

According to Ngige, the position of NECA, an umbrella body for employers in the private sector, was not only irresponsible and thoughtless, but a bland knee jerk reaction borne out of self service and unpatriotism.

The minister, in a statement by the Deputy Director, Press, in the Ministry, prince Samuel Olowookere said any reaction that tended to work against government's intervention in any sector of the economy in the overall interest of all Nigerians, by invoking a sudden rigid stricture to free market rules, was C M Y K

an absurdity.

The statement read in part: “If government has been intervening and shall continue to intervene to save banks and allied institutions, even the aviation industry, in times of distress without allowing the free market rules to solely reign, therefore not forcing some of them to go under, the same government can equally make minimum demands from this private sector in the overall interests of the nation. Our authority in this instance is not only statutory but also moral.

“Therefore, we wish to state clearly once more, that the intention of government rather than being punitive on these financial institutions is to safeguard national interest by staving off unnecessary job losses and hence avert its real and potential threat to the already fragile security situation and stability of the nation.

“Government intention is guided by the fact that there are clear alternatives to the abrasive lay-off of thousands of workers especially in the background of non-compliance with laid-down rules on redundancy as clearly

enunciated in our labour laws. ''The labour unions in the financial institutions have brought forward, very strong evidence that thousands of workers laid off last year in a similar excercise are yet to receive their negotiated benefits. We wish to state that it is only an irresponsible government that will trivialize such a situation and the attendant responsibilities. The Buhari administration is patriotic, nationalistic and very responsible and shall continue to take measures that protect our institutions, private or public.

“We also add that our directives to the banks are premised on set rules of engagement. That section 20 of the labour act is abundantly clear on redundancy and steps expected of institutions to safeguard not just their interests and that of their employees but also that of government who is the chief guarantor of industrial harmony.

“It is hence unpatriotic and a predetermined sabotage of common good to expect that government will have its hands tied by a mischievous and self

IFAD lifts 5,000 farmers in Benue

By Peter Duru

M

AKURDI—TO boost food production in the country, the International Fund for Agricultural Development, IFAD, has approved a package of support for no fewer than 5,000 farmers in Benue State through the provision of free farming inputs and implements among others during this year’s farming season.

Leader of the IFAD-Value Chain Development Programme, VCDP, visitation team to the state, Dr. Samuel Erami, made this known yesterday when he led his team on courtesy visit to Governor Samuel Ortom in Makurdi.

Erami said the IFADVCDP was an initiative to provide farmers the platform to improve their annual produce in rice and cassava production to enhance their living condition.

He said the team was in the state to visit the 14 host communities of IFAD-VCDP in Okpokwu, Guma, Logo and Gwer Local Government Areas, LGAs, of the state.

Leader of the IFAD-VCDP lauded the Governor for keying into the programme by approving the release of N156million as the year’s counterpart fund for the programme.

According to him: “last year your administration approved the release of N87 million counterpart fund and this year you have also approved another N166million for the programme, it clearly shows your commitment to agricultural development in your state.”

Responding, Governor Ortom assured the delegation of the administration’s sustained support for the IFAD-VCDP and other development partners in the state.

He suggested that the programme be extended to the 23 local government areas of the state.

Kogi plants 400,000 trees to combat climate change

By Boluwaji Obahopo

L

OKOJA—THE Kogi State government has commenced the planting of 400,000 trees to combat climate change and check the effects of environmental disaster caused by deforestation.

Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Rosemary Osikoya, who spoke during the flag-off of the “Let’s Green Kogi”, also implored individuals and

corporate organisations in the state to imbibe the spirit of tree planting to create a conducive environment for people.

Osikoya said 20,000 trees would be planted in each of the 21 local government areas of the state in fulfillment with the United Nations environmental renewal programme aimed at fighting environmental disaster, which the state had keyed into.

She said the tree planting

scheme would not only serve to reclaim the lost ground through afforestation and forest regeneration, but had been designated for places that would as well serve as recreational centres.

The commissioner also urged individuals and corporate organisations to join the tree planting campaign so that the state could be saved from erosion and other environmental degradation.

36—Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 2016

DIASPORA TALK: Mrs. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Senior Special Adviser to the President on Foreign Affairs and Diaspora (right) and Governor Willie Obiano of Anambra State, during a courtesy visit to the governor in Awka as the first state to have a full ministry for the Diaspora, Culture and Tourism.

BUSINESS LUNCH: From left—Former Minister of Finance and Chairman of the occasion, Dr. Kalu Idika Kalu; Chairman, Board of Directors, Etisalat Nigeria, and President, Kings College Old Boys Association, Mr. Hakeem Bello-Osagie; Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Udoma Udo Udoma, and the former Vice President, Chief Alex Ekwueme, during a business networking lunch by the association, with theme The 2016 Budget, in Lagos.

OANDO FRANCHISE: From left— Head, Sales, Oando Marketing Plc, Mr. Babafemi Olabiyi; Otunba of Ibafoland, Chief Solomon Ajilleja; Dealer, Oando Ibafo Service Station, Mr. Adekunle Babatunde, and Mrs Yetunde Babatunde, performing the ceremonial first sale at the commissioning of its new franchise model station at Ibafo, Ogun State.

ICC CONFAB: From left—Secretary General, International Chambers of Commerce, ICC, Nigeria, Olubunmi Osuntuyi; Chairman, Planning Committee, Dorothy Ufot (SAN); Vice Chairman, Planning Committee, Tunde Fagbohunlu (SAN) and member, Planning Committee, May Mbu, all of 1st ICC Africa Regional Arbitration Conference, at a briefing in Lagos.

LAUNCH: From left— Nollywood actress, Mrs. Stephanie Linus; CEO, Enthyst Event Limited, Mrs. Ndidi Obiora; Principal Consultant, Fruition Image Africa, Mrs. Ifeoma Williams, and Nollywood actress, Genevieve Nnaji, at the launch of THE EVENT PROS, a reality TV show powered by Enthyst, in Lagos. PHOTO: Akinwunmi Ibrahim.

BOOK READING: From left— Winner of the 2006 Wole Soyinka Prize for Literature in Africa, and author Everything Good Will Come, Atta Sefi; Director, Schools Administration, Education District III, Lagos State, Mr. Obaba Dele; Executive Director, Deepwater Management, Mr. Joel Hervochon; and representative of Lagos State the Deputy Governor, Mrs Amosu Sewanu, Permanent Secretary, Teachers’ Establishment and Pensions Office, at the second book reading event in Lagos.

HONOUR:

CHARITY: From left—National Coordinator, Patrotic Citizens for Okowa, an NGO, Chief Lucky Asini; children and widow of late Baron Israel, Mrs Obukowho; her father, Chief Edgar Oyibo, and Mr. M. Akpobasah, during Asini's presentation of money and food items to the family in Sapele, Delta State.

From left— Chair, Global Alliance for PR and Communication, Professor Gregor Halff (right), presenting a gift and certificate to the President, NIPR, Dr. Rotimi Oladele, in appreciation of his role as Global Alliance Board Member and representative of Africa at Large for 2015/16, in Canada.

VANGUARD, MONDAY, JUNE 14, 2016—37

How Obaseki reconciled Oshiomhole, Ize-Iyamu

By Emmanuel Aziken, Political Editor

G

OVERNOR Adams Osihomhole and Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, who fell out just after the governor ’s re-election in 2012, have been partially reconciled by circumstances, leading political figures close to both men have claimed.

Central to their partial political reconciliation is the alleged inclination of both men for the aspiration of Mr. Godwin Obaseki to emerge as the governorship candidate of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC. Multiple sources close to both men confirmed to Vanguard that the two men are separately pushing for Obaseki, the chairman of the Edo State Economic Team to emerge as the candidate of the APC. However, that is where both men seem to have reached a convergence, sources close to the governor revealed.

Oshiomhole is pushing wholeheartedly for Obaseki to

•Obaseki, Oshiomhole and Ize-Iyamu: All three are agreed on the emergence of Obaseki as APC candidate but for different reasons emerge as the candidate of the APC despite the reservation of some of his aides and members of his cabinet. IzeIyamu, who is the leading aspirant in the PDP, is also said to be urging his friends working in the Oshiomhole government to prod him, (governor) to do more to

ensure Obaseki triumphs in the forthcoming governorship primary this weekend.

Ize-Iyamu’s support for Obaseki a source told Vanguard is, however, selfcentred as he believes that Oshiomhole’s favourite aspirant would be the easiest for him to beat in the main

PDP elects delegates

By Gabriel Enogholase

T

HE PDP, yesterday, conducted the election of ad hoc delegates, who will elect the governorship candidate of the party next Monday.

The election, which was held in all the 192 wards of the state, was monitored in some wards by a committee sent by the national caretaker committee of the party and members of the state working committee led by the state chairman, Chief Dan Orbih. Also present in the monitoring team were officials of the Independent Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agents.

The PDP committee had a former governor of Benue State, Gabriel Suswam, as chairman, a former Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Steve Oru, as secretary and Dr. Akilu Ndabawa, Hon Bobo Misau, Barrister Nonye Nwangu and Hon Ejike Ani as members.

A consensus arrangement held sway in all the wards visited in Ikpoba-Okha, Oredo, and Egor local government areas, while reports from other parts of the

state indicated that the same consensus arrangement produced the three delegates per ward.

In Ward 3, Oredo Local Government Area, the trio of Barrister Faith Osadolor, Dan Orobedoh, and Hannah Igie emerged delegates through a voice vote.

Speaking on the conduct of the exercise, former Benue State Governor, Gabriel Suswam expressed satisfaction in the exercise, remarking that with the support given the exercise by party stakeholders, the PDP in Edo State was determined to reclaim Edo State from the All Progressives Congress (APC).

“I’m satisfied. I’m particularly impressed with the enthusiasm and commitment of the people, especially the chairman and his members, stakeholders and the aspirants.

“We held a meeting with them, and we can say that all of them are on the same page. The entire stakeholders of the PDP in Edo State are very committed to this exercise and are involved in the

A exercise.

“The PDP is a party that believes in due process. The caretaker committee of the party selected us to come and conduct this exercise that will lead to the election of who becomes the candidate of the party.

“Because of the seriousness attached to the exercise, the PDP selected prominent Nigerians.

We refused to remain in our hotels and expect a report to be brought to us. We wanted to be sure of what comes out of the exercise,” the former Benue governor said.

As at press time, only three aspirants, Pastor Osagie IzeIyamu, Mr. David Edebiri and Mr. Matthew Iduoriyekemwen are in contention for the ticket. A fourth aspirant, Mr. Naiwu Osahon was, as at press time, yet to obtain the N16 million form.

T

HERE are speculations that the Saturday governorship primaries of the All Progressives Congress (APC) may take place in one of the Army barracks in the state rather than the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium

for security reasons.

Vanguard learnt that those suggesting that the venue is shifted to the barracks were fearing that the violent incident which took place in Bayelsa during the botched governorship primaries of APC may take place

in Edo if urgent steps are not taken to avert it.

However, Vanguard learnt that majority of the party members were insisting that the Samuel Ogbemudia stadium should remain the venue because it is spacious for such an event.

mainly because he and many of us know that Obaseki is no match for him,” the Oshiomhole associate and a top official of the Edo State Government told Vanguard.

Esan group pushes Imasuangbon as consensus candidate

By Simon Ebegbulem

FEAR OF VIOLENCE: APC primary may hold at Army Barracks

By Simon Ebegbulem

election.

“You can’t believe it, IzeIyamu and I still talk from time to time and he is urging us to tell comrade not to relent in his support for Obaseki

HEAD of the June 18 governorship primaries of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo state, a socialcultural organization in the state, the Esan Renaissance, yesterday urged APC delegates in Edo Central senatorial district to back Mr. Kenneth Imasuangbon as the consensus candidate of the Esan.

After reviewing the five APC aspirants of Esan extraction who include Imasuagbon, Prof.

Oserhiemen Osunbor, Comrade Peter Esele, Mr. Austine Emuan and Tina Agbarha, the group said Imasuagbon stands a better chance of defeating other APC aspirants from Edo South and therefore stressed the need to back his aspiration.

Coordinator of the group, Comrade Emmanuel Okoruwa, said in a statement that “Imasuagbon remains the only hope of the Esan people in this race, and that is why we are endorsing him. We are calling on all our delegates to vote for Imasuagbon. He is a hard working young man who must be encouraged to serve his people.

“Prof Osunbor is our son whom we respect while others are equally good, but we believe that

Imasuagbon has the structure to battle other Edo South aspirants because he has done it before, and we love him” he stated.

“Our immediate focus which is an anEsan person for Edo State Governor 2016 was exhaustively discussed during the meeting.

We observed that at least five persons from Esan were vying for the governorship seat on different party platforms. We also observed that each of them have what it takes to be a good governor, and that is if any of them is given the chance to govern the state the person will perform creditably well. However we can’t have all of them as governors at the same time” it stated.

•Imasuangbon: Gets home boost

OUR ERROR OUR story of yesterday, Monday, June 13, 2016 “Confusion in PDP over delegates’ list” contained material errors. The errors are sincerely regretted.

— EDITOR

38—VANGUARD, TUESDAY,

JUNE 14, 2016

How to survive as a Deputy Governor — MADUMERE, IMO DEP GOV DEPUTY Governor of Imo State, Prince Eze Madumere in this interview takes a look at the administration of Chief Rochas Okorocha and concludes that the governor took the state back from the brink. He also spoke on other issues.

•Madumere

Y

By Charles Kumolu

OU have been Deputy Governor for the almost three years without having a frosty relationship with your principal. What is the secret?

Being a Deputy Governor for the past three years has been a worthwhile experience. I have been operating based on the constitutional provisions and descriptions as to how the Deputy Governor of a state should conduct himself and abide by the responsibilities therein.

I believe that what is more important is the partnership that exists between my principal and me. It is that partnership and understanding that have given us so much harmony and peace to achieve. I enjoy the confidence of my leader, and I understand him to the extent that he does not need to utter a word for me to take a decision.

Partners and team players Again, you just have to be proactive to be appreciated by your boss or your principal.

Many are of the opinion that deputy governors are just spare tyres who function when their principal desires. Is that applicable to you?

Spare tyres? No, Deputy Governors ought not to be seen from such perspective. Deputy Governors are supposedly partners and team players.

The spare tyre is only important when the main tyre is too weak and must have been rendered dysfunctional. This ought not to be the case. Truly, it is only in the event of death that you could begin to define the position of a Deputy Governor in such manner. We are all candidates of death.

If death is indiscriminate in its effect in relation to age, sex and class, then the concept of spare tyre should be confined to a political dustbin. I am a partner C M Y K

to my leader and boss. We work together. If you understand the protocol of office and adhere to it, you will discover that where the Governor is unable to cover in the course of administering the state, his deputy will naturally stand-in for him.

Constitutionally, Deputy Governors are majorly and statutorily commissioned to handle boundary Issues and few other areas.

In my experience, I have enjoyed the comfort of working with my leader not because I am the best but because it is the nature of Owelle Rochas Okorocha to naturally delegate duties. It is only when you are not delivering that he complains.

If you know what you are doing, my Governor will naturally be your best friend and will give you enough tasks.

I enjoy the confidence of my leader, and I understand him to the extent that he does not need to utter a word for me to take a decision

The baseline for your principal is nothing but loyalty. Another principle is that you must as matter of fact ensure that your boss does not look stupid in the public.

As a former Chief of Staff to Governor Okorocha when the governor assumed the mantle of leadership, what kind of state did your administration inherit?

Like I was taught by one of my lecturers, the brain is a membrane that forgets. Within 21 days, if you have no direct interaction or need to recall or interact with an object,

event or even an issue, you are likely to forget except a related issue crops up sometime in the future.

When we came on board, Imo

was a model state of nature where life was at the mercy of empowered miscreants. Imo was one hell of a kingdom where kidnappers and hooligans reigned while the people trembled.

Imo people lost their freedom as no one could speak for fear of being molested, intimidated or attacked. In terms of infrastructure, it was a tale of dilapidation as Owerri city had no escape the moment there was traffic. The rural dwellers knew nothing about governance other than radio adverts.

When Rochas emerged as Imo State Governor, many expected him to rebuild the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and transform it from a regional party to a national platform. He left taking along with him most of the APGA stakeholders outside Imo State.

He also failed to submit the

APGA certificate as one of the parties that formed the All Progressives Congress (APC).

What went wrong?

You cannot build a party beyond its vision or the vision of those who feel they own it. All Progressives Congress truly was a great instrument, if you like, a vehicle with which we used to launch the Rescue Mission Agenda into government.

However, the party was long overdue for overhaul, but those in leadership felt it was more of their personal stock for the advancement of their personal aggrandizement. They will wake up and negotiate with whosoever they feel will pay the bill. That was not the kind of progressive party we envisaged. Efforts were made to re-evaluate and repackage the party but that was not to be because a few persons felt it was their means of livelihood. The Second point is that the party was trouble-ridden at a time when others were getting ready for the season, the party was embroiled in leadership tussle to the extent we had three chairmen at the same time.

Ganduje’s new steps in Kano

By AbdulSalam Muhammad

I

N the beginning, only a few believed that the Kano State governor, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje would make impressive impacts within a short time considering the poor economic situation and prospects in the state.

Ganduje, who was part of the immediate past administration of Alhaji Rabiu Kwakwanso was conscious of the template set by his former boss especially in areas of infrastructural development.

Hence, his commitment to perform. This, perhaps, propelled him and his kitchen cabinet to the drawing board resulting in the construction site that the state has become.

Many are still surprised at what the governor was able to do in the last one year.

Comfort of governance On hand to tell his success story was the governor, who in a special broadcast to the state as part of activities marking his one year in office, said his administration had “sacrificed the comfort of governance to achieve greater Kano over the last 12 months.”

He said: “I can state that the government has within a span of a year expended N16, 833,372,872.00 on such infrastructural development.

“Those completed and commissioned are the Post Office Road, Dorawa Road, Gurin Gawa-Maidille Road, Niger Street, Lagos Street, Dorawa Road, Kofar Dawanau/Yantaya Road, Ahmadiyya Road and

Kwankwaso Town Road network.

“There are those in progress, such as the continuation of Murtala Muhammed Bridge, Prince Abubakar Audu Underpass at Kofar Gadon Kaya, construction/dualization of Dakata-Bela Road Phase I, upgrading/ dualization of Sheik Mahmud Salga Road, expansion/dualization of Zaria Road, Paediatric Hospital Zoo Road and Giginyu Specialist •Ganduje: Kano State governor Hospital among others.

He disclosed that in the quest projects completed by his to achieve greatness and principal were done with tax money. development across the board, payers’ the Revised Kano State Notwithstanding, some think the Development Plan (KSDPII) was governor is not doing much like launched. He said: “The his predecessor.

Arguing in that line, Alhaji development plan is an important policy and information Yaluwa Rano said Ganduje had document, which is going to help derailed from policy and in moving Kano State to its programmes initiated by his former boss. “The inability of desired destination.”

However, many are surprised Ganduje to continue with free that the governor was able to education, free feeding in schools, and achieve these considering the primary limited resources accruable to disbandment of educational institutions inherited from the the state.

Speaking on that, the Director previous administration was sad General, Media and commentary on human capital Communication to the governor, development” Rano, who recently resigned Alhaji Salihu Tanko-Yakasai said: “We invented home-grown his appointment as an aide to the solutions to solve home-grown Speaker of the state House of problems.” He said: “We cut Assembly, described Ganduje’s down government expenses one year in office as “one step reduced the salaries of political forward and four steps office holders by half, plugged backward. “Yes, there areas leakages, and most importantly where Ganduje performed, but our IGR is improving today more when put side by side with what was deliberately left out, it’s a big than any other time in history.”

He explained that most of the step backward, “he explained.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 2016—39

Delta PDP lauds par ty's reconciliation bid party's

T

HE Working Committee of Peoples Democratic Party,

PDP, Delta State chapter, has described the reconciliation move by

Senator Mantu and Senator Makafi-led group of the party as a welcome development.

A statement by the state Chairman, Chief Inana Michael, and Publicity Secretary, Chief Austin Ogbolu, after a meeting hosted by Delta Central senatorial district, Sunday, called on the caretaker committee to initiate reconciliation in the state chapters across the country, “where congresses were shoddy,” and urged local government excos to remain resolute as the party was a democratic one that respects the power of the people.

The statement said, “We call on the National Caretaker Committee to, as a matter of urgency, look into the parallel excos across the nation, particularly in Delta State, where one is headed by Chief Inana Michael of Ethiope East Local Government Area, and another by Mr. Kingsley Afejukun of Warri North Local Government Area.

“We further charge all council executives in Delta State to remain resolute without fear of intimidation as PDP, being a democratic party, shall always respect the power of the people.”

40—VANGUARD, TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 2016

By Theodore Opara

What is lifespan of tyre (1)

By Majemite Okome

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•Higer Pickup and mini bus for production by Globe Motors.

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HE Chairman of Globe Motors, a leading automobile company in Nigeria, Mr. William Anumudu, has promised Nigerians quality and affordable vehicles from its stable when it starts rolling out cars from its ultra-modern plant in Lekki, Lagos by next month.

Mr. Anumudu, disclosed in Lagos that the company is putting finishing touches to its assembly plant located at the Lekki area which has a capacity for 40,000 vehicles on completion and would generate employment for 3,500 Nigerians. Globe is investing about $150 million dollars in the plant..

He explained that the plant will produce about 6,000 vehicles annually for a start including passenger cars, pick-ups, high capacity buses and trucks.

Expect quality, affordable vehicles from Globe plant — Anumudu

Result of the multiplier effect Mr. Anumudu added that another 10,000 jobs will be created indirectly as a result of the multiplier effect of the plant and that the company would start with the production of Semi Knockdown parts SKD, and later graduate to complete knockdown parts CKD, for Hyundai, Higher and a Globe Motors brands.

The Globe Motors boss further explained that the company would be assembling three brands of automobiles including Hyundai Higer, and its own brand, adding that the company has signed agreements with the Original Equipment Manufacturers OEM of these brands to produce the vehicles for Nigerians using global standard.

Commending the government for coming up with a policy for the auto industry, Mr. Anumudu said: “We have made a lot of progress in the new plant. We keyed into the government auto policy though we were hesitant at the beginning, but we have realized it is the way to the

nation’s economic development.”

The Globe Motors boss noted that the success of the nation’s automotive sector would go a long way in ensuring the country’s development pointing out that all developed countries of the world have thriving automobile industry, which is a catalyst to economic development.

“We don’t have an alternative to this auto sector, I urge all serious auto dealers in the country to key into this noble policy of the Federal Government,” he stated.

Though he said that the journey had not been easy, he commended the government for its support to see to the life of the assembly plant.

He recalled that the National Automotive Design and Development Council, NADDC; Nigerian Customs, Ministry of Finance, Budget Office have visited and encouraged them in their quest to achieve the tough task which led to their being given recognized status as vehicle assembler in Nigeria, adding that they have also received assistance from the Nigerian banks which have been very

supportive.

On funding, he said, the company has keyed into the Real Sector Support Fund of the Federal Government an intervention fund that is being administered by the Central Bank of Nigeria and has received good response to its funding request.

The Globe Motors boss, however, advised Nigerians not to lose hope as the worse days in the Nigerian economy will soon be over. The indices, he said are there as the oil price has started picking up and with the implementation of flexible exchange rate by the Federal Government, serious corporate enterprises could source their funds for their businesses.

He sees a huge potential for made in Nigeria vehicles as his company would explore market within the West African regions for their products.

“We are discussing with some auto vehicle dealerships along the West African corridor with the view to exporting our products to other countries” he said.

HE question that most motorists are ask ing is when does the car tyre expire? Car Tyres are manufactured by bonding rubber to fabric plies and steel cords. And despite the anti-aging ingredients mixed into the rubber compounds, there is a realization that tyres are perishable, as well as a growing awareness that some tyres will actually age out before their treads will wear out.

It is clear, tyres should have expiration date. Older tyres are substantially more likely to fail than newer ones. This is because tyres are made mostly of rubber, and rubber degrades with age. Sunlight, heat, ice, and general wear and tear can accelerate the breakdown of a tyre.

Once a tyre begins to break down, it becomes more likely to fail in the form of a tread separation–often at highway speeds, when the failure is most likely to cause catastrophic injuries or death.

Tyres age because of a chemical process commonly referred to as oxidation, which simply means that as the tyre components are exposed to oxygen, the oxygen particles cause the flexible components of a tyre to harden and become brittle. Over time, the tyre will simply fall apart under normal stress, just like an old rubber band.

Because this process occurs naturally, it does not matter if a tyre is being used, stored as a spare, or simply waiting on a store shelf for an unsuspecting consumer. For the most part, today’s tyres deliver more miles and years of service than ever before. In the It is clear, tyres 1970s, typical bias ply tyre lastshould have an ed less than expiration 20,000 miles date. Older and were only expected to be in tyres are subservice for about stantially more two years. In the 1980s, early ralikely to fail dial ply tyres ofthan newer fered a treadwear expectancy ones of about 40,000 miles during four years of service. And by the turn of the century, many long-life radial tyres extended treadwear to about 60,000 miles during four or more years of service. While passenger car and light truck tyre technology and driving conditions in the past resulted in tyre treads wearing out before the rest of the tyre aged, it may not always be true of today’s even longer lasting tyres that are approaching 80,000 miles of treadwear.

How many years will tyres last before aging out? Unfortunately it’s impossible to predict when tyres should be replaced based on their calendar age alone.

Exposure to the elements (sun and atmospheric), regularity of use (frequent or only occasional) and the quality of care (maintaining proper inflation pressure, wheel alignment, etc.) will all influence the answer. So while tyre life depends on the service conditions and the environment in which they operate, the difficult task remains how to identify all of the variables that influence a tyre’s calendar age and attempt to quantify their influence.

The British Rubber Manufacturers Association (BRMA) strongly recommend that unused tyres should not be put into service if they are over six years old and that all tyres should be replaced ten years from the date of their manufacture.”

•Okome, is an Auto Engineer. 08066230187

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 2016 — 41

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42— VANGUARD, TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 2016

In wake of attack, Trump renews call for banning Muslims from U.S

•Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump renewed calls for a ban on Muslim immigration to the US

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ONALD Trump on Monday defended his response to the deadly nightclub shooting in Orlando, Fla., insisting in television interviews that the attack proves he was “right” in calling for a ban on Muslim immigrants, who, he claims, are

entering the country to plot terrorist attacks.

But pressed on how his proposed ban would have stopped Sunday ’s massacre, which authorities say was perpetrated by an American-born citizen, the presumptive

Republican presidential nominee simply doubled down on the policy, suggesting immigrants are entering the country and corrupting people who are already here.

The issue arose at a critical moment in Trump’s campaign, as he was preparing to answer Hillary Clinton’s attack 10 days ago on his temperament and grasp of foreign policy issues. In recent weeks, he has downplayed the call for a ban on Muslim immigration, which was a cornerstone of his campaign during the primary, all but dropping it from his stump speeches.

But the shooting seems to have reenergized the issue for him, and also his insinuations that President Obama identifies with radicalized Muslims who have carried out terrorist attacks like the Orlando shooting.

....Vigils held after deadliest shooting

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IGILS have been held across the United States after the deadliest mass shooting in its history targeted a gay nightclub in the state of Florida.

At least 49 people died and 53 were wounded in Sunday ’s shooting in Orlando with the rampage only coming to an end after perpetrator Omar Mateen was shot dead in a gun battle with

police officers.

“48 of the 49 victims have been identified.

Twenty-four of the next of kin have been notified with more to come,” Buddy Dyer, the mayor of Orlando said on Monday morning.

“We will not be defined by the act of a cowardly hater. We will be defined by how we respond, how we treat each other and

this community has stepped up to do that,” Dyer added.

Orlando Police chief John Mina described the shooting as “one of the worst tragedies we have seen”, adding that police officers “were shaken by what they have seen inside the club”.

“It’s a tragedy not only for the city but the entire nation,” he said.

Qatar convicts Dutch woman after being raped

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COURT in Qatar has convicted a Dutch woman of having sex outside marriage after she told police she was raped.

The 22-year-old was handed a suspended sentence and fined $824 (£580). She will also be deported.

Her lawyer said her drink had been spiked at a Doha hotel in March and she had woken up in a stranger’s flat, where she realised she

had been raped.

Her alleged attacker, who said the sex was consensual, was sentenced to 100 lashes for having sex outside marriage.

He will be given a further 40 lashes for consuming alcohol.

The woman has been detained since making the allegation three months ago, but her case only came to light over the weekend when her family decided to

EU to extend sanctions on Russia

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HE European Union is due to extend its economic sanctions on Russia over the conflict in Ukraine for six months next week, diplomatic sources said, though this stance could be softened later on.

The EU imposed sanctions on Russia after Moscow annexed Crimea from Kiev in March 2014 and stepped them up later that year as the Kremlin

backed rebels fighting Ukrainian troops in eastern Ukraine. More than 9,000 people have been killed.

The bloc’s energy, financial and defence sanctions expire in July and the 28-strong EU is seen extending them this time around before having a review of its stance vis-à-vis Russia later in the second half of the year.

go public.

Microsoft to buy LinkedIn for $26bn

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ICROSOFT is buying the professional networking website LinkedIn for just over $26bn (£18bn) in cash.

The software giant will pay $196 a share - a premium of almost 50% to Friday ’s closing share price.

The deal will help Microsoft boost sales of its business and email software.

Microsoft said that LinkedIn would retain its “distinct brand, culture and independence”.

Ben Wood, head of research at CCS Insight, said the deal would give Microsoft access to the world’s biggest professional social network.

Oscar Pistorius is depressed, psychologist tells court O SCAR Pistorius is a “broken” man and should not be sent to jail, a psychologist has said at the South African athlete’s sentencing hearing.

Defence witness Dr Jonathan Scholtz said Pistorius was suffering from “major depression”.

Pistorius was convicted at the end of last year of the 2013 murder of his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp.

He faces a jail term of 15 years but it may be reduced due to time already spent in prison and mitigating factors.

The hearing is expected to last all week with a sentence by Friday.

Dr Scholtz explained to the court why he felt a jail term would not be

“constructive”.

“Since the offence he has developed a serious psychiatric condition which has become worse over the past two years,” he told the court.

Instead of a custodial sentence, Pistorius should do community service so that he could help others

Libya claims $1.2bn damages from Goldman Sachs over trades

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IBYA’S $67bn national investment fund is seeking damages from Goldman Sachs, saying the bank encouraged it to make complex, money-losing investments.

The Libyan Investment Authority, which runs the fund, is looking to claw back

Ethiopia, Eritrea trade blames over border clashes

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THIOPIA and Eritrea have traded blames over fresh clashes in a disputed border region that triggered a bloody war in 1998-2000 and killed thousands of civilians.

Ethiopia said the situation was calm around the border town of Zalambessa on Monday, and government spokesman Getachew Reda alleged that Eritrean soldiers had been “promptly repulsed” by Ethiopian troops.

A resident in the Ethiopian town of Zalambessa, across the border from Tsorona, told Reuters news agency by telephone that he had heard the sound of shelling on Sunday and into Monday morning.

Eritrea disputed this account, saying Ethiopia started the fight.

“The TPLF regime has today, Sunday 12 June 2016, unleashed an attack against Eritrea on the

and had a job offer as a project manager in an early childhood development programme run by his uncle’s company, Dr Scholz said.

Pistorius was also now traumatised by the sound gunfire, even in a film, and never wanted to go near a firearm again.

Tsorona Central Front,” Eritrea’s Information Ministry said in a statement.

“The purpose and ramifications of this attack are not clear,” it added.

$1.2bn (£840m) it says was lost through nine disputed trades conducted in 2008.

The Libyans said the trades were made under “undue influence”.

Goldman said the claims were without merit and it would fight them vigorously.

The trial started on Monday at the High Court in London.

The Libyan Investment Authority said that Goldman Sachs gained its trust and then abused it by encouraging it to participate in complex trades that it did not understand.

Kenyan lawmakers propose electoral reforms after weeks of protests

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ENYA’S parliament has proposed giving the Supreme Court more time to hear petitions against future presidential votes, after weeks of protests by oppositions parties accusing the main election body of bias.

The results of both the 2007 and 2013 presidential elections were disputed, and in the aftermath of the December 2007 vote Kenya plunged into several weeks of ethnic bloodletting that killed about 1,200 people.

Now, more than a year

before the next election in August 2017, opposition protests have been staged on an almost weekly basis against the electoral oversight body which opponents say show pro-government bias, a charge the body denies.

At least four people have been killed in violence associated with the protests, alarming many Kenyans and Western powers, who have called for dialogue and condemned what they call the excessive use of force by police.

Former Paralympian Oscar Pistorius attends the sentencing for the murder of Reeva Steenkamp at the Pretoria High Court, South Africa yesterday.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 2016 — 43

We changed concept of only the rich can live in luxury homes —Haven Homes MD

By Kingsley Adegboye

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HE Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Haven Homes, a Lagosbased real estate development firm, Mr. Tayo Sonuga, has noted that his company which is ten years old in business by this year became truly the first commercial developer of real contemporary homes in Nigeria.

Sonuga who revealed that prior to this, real contemporary homes had remained the exclusive preserve of the rich and famous who could afford very expensive architects to do designs and employed expatriates to build their mansions, said “Haven Homes changed this concept by introducing the first truly contemporary architecture at the most affordable prices into the Nigerian market.

widespread alleged copying of the designs by other real estate developers.

According to him, in 2006, exactly 10 years ago, Haven Homes entered the Lagos property market with a bang with the delivery of their first housing units in Magodo GRA, Lagos where the then commissioner for Housing in Lagos State, Mr. Bamidele Onabokun lauded the developer of the residential estate for quality job during the commissioning of the flagship development in Magodo.

“In 2009, we were described as the most romantic homes in Lagos, in 2010, we got the elevated

appellation of the best designed homes in Lagos by top real estate publications across the country. In 2014, we got the prestigious award for the Most Affordable Development of the year. The same was awarded to us again in 2015.

Now, in 2016, the more improved versions of these homes are currently being referred to as the most functional and readily affordable luxury homes in Lagos”, Sonuga stated.

On how the company has been able to maintain the constant delivering of quality, luxury and affordable homes to Nigerians, he said “The mission of the company

was clear from the onset. We wanted to make a statement. We wanted to change the trend in real estate business in Nigeria. We knew it was possible to replicate the standards in Europe, America, Dubai and other developed parts of the world here in Nigeria.

“That is what we have been doing effectively and consistently in the most affordable way for about a decade now. It is our passion and it will surely continue to get better. The company’s vision of luxury homes delivery was put into reality through a unique partnership with award winning architecture firm ‘PLAYINARCHITECTURE’.

“With the partnership, we were able to develop never seen before luxury homes in Nigeria.

“The2016 model presents a unique variance from the sensational 2015 models and comes with further improvements that may be extremely difficult to copy."

Original designs The success of these designs was trailed by massive attempt by other developers to copy and implement various versions of the original designs by Haven Homes”.

Sonuga who spoke against the back ground of the resounding success his firm recorded in ten years of its establishment, explained that the firm kept improving on its home designs year-in year-out, despite the

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HE Managing Director, Inclusive Concrete & Engineering Ltd, a Lagos-based real estate development company, and promoters of Excellence Estate in Arepo, Ogun state, Misbau Opeyemi Aminu, an engineer, has noted that delivering high quality homes that are complimented with lush green areas that replicate the ambience of Ikoyi, Lagos is the priority of firm.

Speaking on Excellence Estate, the latest addition to his company’s profile which is built on 20 acres of prime land located near the Journalist’s Estate, Arepo off Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, and about 15 minutes drive from Alausa Central Business District, Aminu said the residential estate which is modelled along the low density ambience of Ikoyi, would be completed in 36 months and prospective investors are expected to get a million naira payback on construction cost as a deal.

By Mike Ebonugwo

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limate change is said to have inevitably become the defining issue in Akwa Ibom State on account of the state seriously facing various forms of environmental degradation attributable to its geographical location and other natural and human induced factors.

According to the state Commissioner for Environment and Mineral Resources, Iniobong Ene Essien, worse hit by the development, which has impacted negatively on various sectors of the state’s economy, are some coastal and riverine communities in the state many of which have already been forced to relocate due to excessive sea level rise and attendant flooding.

Speaking at the World Media Chat on the First Akwa Ibom State Climate Change and Clean Energy Mega Summit/Expo 2016 at the weekend, the Commissioner who was represented by Mr. Samuel Bassey of the Governor’s Office in Lagos, however, assured that the state government through the Ministry of Environment and Mineral Resources has since risen to the occasion in addressing the challenges posed by climate change.

Climate change Model of a semi-detached home in Excellence Estate, Arepo, Ogun State

Estate's promoter canvasses quality control in housing delivery

By Kingsley Adegboye

Climate change: Akwa Ibom govt drags takeholders to Uyo to tackle challenges

Aminu, a civil engineer, stated that his firm, a building and civil engineering construction company established in 2008, has worked with both private and public sectors, various companies like Zenith Bank, GTbank, Vitafoam, Lagos state government and others.

Personal designs According to the managing director, “The company would bring its wealth of experience in various fields of construction in both the public and private sectors to bear in development of Excellence Estate”.

He stated that the success of the company’s previous projects gave rise to Excellence Estate. “The company is out to do things right and also follow proper routine.

These tenets have kept the company going for a long time. We are not just developers but a construction company with

integrity. Excellence Estate is a combination of horticulture and aesthetics. It comprises homes that are fully detached, semi- detached, terraces, and block of flats. “The estate is subdivided into two. We have the built-up area, which is about two- thirds of the land, and the site and service plots that form about one-third of the land”, he said.

Explaining that the built-up area would be strictly regulated and fully designed, he said “This property would be sold either as homes or plots which are developed to stated regulations and design.

The remaining one-third affords the buyers to come up with personal designs.

He stated that the buildings could be bought in stages either as carcass, or semi-completed, or fully completed, adding that the completed buildings are targeted at people in the diaspora who are expected to buy and just move into completed decent apartments.

“Thecarcassstageofa3-bedroom apartment goes for N9 million; semi completed of three-bedroom is N12 million; while the completed stage of the apartment goes for N16 million. The fully detached comes with 2 Boys Quarters which goes for N24 million at carcass stage, N34 million at semi completed stage and N45 million at completed stage. Others include, the semidetached with a BQ at N17 million at carcass stage; N23 million for semi completed while the completed building goes for N31million.

“The terraces also come with a BQ at N12 million at carcass stage; N14 million at semi completed stage and N17 million for the completed building.

He stated that the mode of payment is flexible, as 30 per cent could be paid up front, while the balance is spread through 18 months. The Excellence Estate project is being financed by Zenith bank.

In his words: ‘’In responding to the climate change challenge, the state has proactively put in place measures aimed at tackling the impact of climate change. To coordinate the activities, the state government has set up a multiState Technical Committee on Climate Change, STCC, to drive the process of climate change activities in the state’’.

He did not stop there. ‘’So far, the struggle to protect, preserve and prepare our environment for the expected industrial revolution has been fairly won, This has been possible through the sucessful implementation of various environment-friendly policies. For instance, with the reintroduction of the monthly sanitation and proper waste management system, the state have recorded marked improvement in keeping our environment clean. ‘’In our effort and serious attempt at turning waste to wealth, the administration of Mr Udom Emmanuel has geared up its energy into recycling of waste as an alternative means of deducing competitive market products from the huge waste generated in the state.

44—Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 2016

Viruses that cause cancer can be transmitted through sex — Dr. Omolola Salako In the next 10 years, the Centre is expected to have supported over 20,000 patients.

“The goal is to have 50 percent discount on cancer care.

Currently, radiotherapy on average in hospitals is between N100,000 and N150,000 for breast cancer patients. We are looking at a situation in which it will cost less.

“Sebeccly, in another decade would have garnered so much statues and become a reference centre where all doctors involved in cancer care will have to come in to learn one or two things about caring for cancer patients,” she remarked

By Chioma Obinna

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S your sex life safe?

Do you know you can expose yourself to cancer through unhealthy sex life?

Do you know that observing the ABCs of sex education helps you in making informed choices through a knowledge and skillsbased approach to reducing the incident of HIV, other Sexually Transmitted Infections, STIs, and unwanted pregnancies, through behavior change?

The ABCs of sex is as follows: A= Abstain; B= Be faithful; C= use Condoms, and it represents the basis of prevention of sexually transmitted infections.

In the views of a Consultant, Radiation Oncologist, Dr Omolola Salako, about 30 percent of cancers can be prevented through lifestyle changes.

Salako who is Executive Director, Sebeccly Cancer Care a pioneer of foundational cancer support, says observing the ABCs of sex would prevent contracting viruses that are sexually transmitted and expose one to some cancers.

Spreading of viruses Salako said some viruses such as Human Papiloma Virus, HPV, Human Immuno deficiency Virus, HIV and Hepatitis B virus, HBV that are spread through sex are known to cause some certain cancers. “HPV causes cervical cancer, HIV is known to cause several cancers, while Hepatits B virus can cause liver cancer.”

Speaking last week at a media forum to kick start activities to mark Sebeccly’s decade of impact on cancer care, support and prevention in Lagos, she observed that for Nigeria to win the war against cancer, the right information should be pushed out to the public.

“To prevent cancer we must apply healthy lifestyles. Habits such as not smoking, reducing alcohol intake, having a safe sexual lifestyle and most especially abstaining from sex if you are single and if you cannot abstain, or you are married, you can use a condom. There is also the need to reduce exposure to the sun for the light-skinned, have a balanced diet and take more fruits, less carbohydrates, less fats , less sugar and salt.

“Knowledge is power, if we are going to fight cancer, everyone including government and other stakeholders must sit at a roundtable and agree on the best way forward to push out information to patients. We need all hospitals to have call centres.

Every patient should have access C M Y K

Cancer treatment Dr. Omolola Salako to information not necessarily going to the hospitals. The

HPV causes cervical cancer, HIV is known to cause several cancers, and Hepatits B virus can cause liver cancer websites of these hospitals should be functional.

“Attitude of Nigerians to cancer is surrounded by fear and stigmatisation. It still remains a taboo. In as much as we have moved from one centre to eight,the breast cancer patients are still coming in at Stage III or Stage IV. Therefore information that will help our patients at the right time remains very crucial.

Patients continue to come in late because they are not aware.”

Sebeccly has supported over 4,000 patients and promoted cancer awareness to over 20 million Nigerians.

Tochukwu Ononiwu, Acting Head, Brand & Communication, Fidelity Bank Plc who are partners to Sebeccly, expressed satisfaction with the partnership over 10 years said the bank would continue to support more patients.

The first Radiation Oncologist in West Africa and Nigeria, Prof.

Josbert Duncan, regretted that after 40 years of setting up radiotherapy centres in the country, Nigeria is still deficient in cancer treatment. He urged government to enable those that cannot afford treatment have access.

What you can do to reduce cancer risk through sex

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ANCER is not generally contagious, but it can be inherited in some cases.

Genetic mutations can be inherited from a parent at conception, making someone at risk of developing a certain type of cancer.

Can cancer be transmitted through sex?

You should know that there are some types of cancers caused by viruses that are contagious.

Women who are infected with the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) are at risk of developing cervical cancer. Also, people infected with HIV are at risk of several types of cancers because the virus suppresses their immune system. Some parasites may also increase the risk of developing cancer.

What you should do

To prevent cancer infection through sex, follow the ABCs of sex: A=Abstain; B=Be faithful; C= use Condoms. Get screened for HIV and Hepatitis B virus, HBV, and if you are a woman, go for regular screening for the Human Papiloma Virus, HPV. Studies published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, show that men who have sex frequently are less likely to get prostate cancer.

How to become a healthy voluntary blood donor

By Sola Ogundipe ODAY is World Blood Donor Day. It is a day in which people are encouraged to support voluntary, unpaid blood donations in order to ensure a reliable supply of safe blood to patients who require blood transfusion.

The theme for this year as provided by the World Health Organisation is “Blood connects us all”, with the slogan “Share life, give blood”.

Many people are afraid to donate blood for reasons varying from worry about pain to contracting a disease. However, donating blood is safe thanks to the many precautions in place, so there is no reason to fear giving blood. If you follow the few simple steps below, you will be as prepared as possible to give blood.

You must be eligible. You will only be able to give blood only if you are healthy, fit, and not suffering from a current illness.

You cannot donate blood if you have a cold, a cough, a virus, an upset stomach, or are pregnant.

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should eat iron-rich foods for two weeks before you donate.

This will help you have strong blood for donation and help you b e t t e r recuperate after your donation.

Iron-rich foods include spinach, whole grains, fish, poultry, Voluntary blood donation is a healthy habit. beans, meat, eggs, and beef.

Boost your Certain prescribed medications, vitamin C levels by consuming such as antibiotics, can make you citrus fruit like oranges and ineligible to donate blood. grapes or take vitamin C Also you must weigh at least 50 supplements. kg and be at least 18 years old.

Drink plenty of water: To You can only donate blood prepare your body for the loss every 56 days. If you have of blood, it is recommended donated blood more recently you drink a lot of water in the than that, then you are not 24 hours leading to the eligible again. donation time, especially when Eat iron-rich foods: Blood it's warm. production requires iron, so you

If you are donating plasma or platelets, drink four to six 8-ounce glasses of fluids two to three hours before your appointment.

Get a good night's rest: Before you donate blood, you should have proper sleep. This will help you feel better and more alert which will help reduce the risk of any adverse reactions to the process.

Eat three hours before your donation: Never give blood if you have not eaten that day.

Eating will keep your blood sugar levels stable.

You shouldn't eat heavily.

Avoid fatty foods. If you are donating early, eat something light such as cornflakes or bread. If you are giving blood near the middle of the day, have a light lunch. Don't eat immediately before your appointment.

Avoid certain activities: You should not take aspirin, smoke or take alcohol within 24 hours leading up to your appointment. You should also not chew gum, mints, or candy.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 2016—45

5 reasons you should drink milk everyday

By Gabriel Olawale

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ILK and dairy products are among the essential classes of food for several reasons.

Bone health: Milk and dairy products help in strengthening bone health. They provide calcium, phosphorous, magnesium and protein which are all essential for healthy bone growth and development.

Adequate consumption of milk and dairy from early childhood and throughout life can help to make the bones strong and protect them against diseases in later life.

Healthy teeth: The amounts of calcium and phosphorous in milk and dairy products are also beneficial for the development and maintenance of healthy teeth.

Dentists recommend that milk is the only safe drink to have between meals (except for water) as it has been shown not to cause tooth decay even in conditions perfect for damaging teeth.

Blood pressure: Consuming recommended portions of dairy products each day, along with five portions of fruit and vegetables as part of a low salt diet can reduce high blood pressure in both adults and children.

Cardiovascular disease: Several studies link milk and dairy consumption with reduced

Milk is good for health risk for cardiovascular diseases like hypertension and diabetes.

Obesity: Contrary to popular belief, research has shown that people who consume milk and dairy foods are likely to be slimmer than those who do not.

Experts say milk is an excellent choice of fluid as it not only rehydrates the body, but provides a host of beneficial nutrients.

Hence, Nigerians have been advised to explore various ways to include milk in their diet as it remains one of the natural sources of vitamins and minerals, helping in enhancing growth and development of mental and physical performance while also serving as one of the cheapest sources of protein.

P u b l i c H e a l t h Physician, at the Lagos S t a t e University Te a c h i n g Hospital, LASUTH, Dr. Elochukwu Ukatu who spoke during the 2016 World Milk D a y , organised by Friesland Campina WA M C O, makers of Peak Milk, said that it’s high time the Nigerian family and society begin to appreciate the role of milk in the diet.

On her part, Marketing Manager for Peak Milk, Mrs. Dolapo Otegbayi noted that over 40 percent of Nigerians are actually below the age of 18 which makes it very important for the country advocate for consumption of milk because it plays important role in family and societal development.

“We all grew up with milk but are very limited in our understanding of its versatility.

If you ask the average Nigerian how milk is to be used, they would only tell you that it is to be used with their coffee and tea.

Blind students obtain health insurance plans in Onitsha

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LIND students in Anambra State have joined the scores of Nigerians that enjoy affordable healthcare services, courtesy of a strategic partnership between Rotary Club, Onitsha GRA Charter, and one of Nigeria’s fastest growing health insurance companies, Avon HMO, to provide affordable healthcare plans to individuals and communities.

Under the initiative, members of the Anambra State Blind Students Association have obtained free membership cards for access to regular health services, under the Avon Healthcare Ltd. Community Health Plan, Idemili, Anambra State.

President, Rotary Club Onitsha GRA Charter, Rotarian Chimezie Umetiti, observed during the opening of the Club recently that the gifting of health plans is perfectly aligned to disease prevention and control, which is a key area of focus for the Club.

“These health plans will go a long way in ensuring that people are able to seek medical advice and treatment for conditions without the burden of paying out of pocket.”

Since its launch in 2015, residents of Idemili Community and environs have had unhindered access to low-cost primary and secondary health services, through the health care initiative started through the collaboration of Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company (SNEPCo), Avon HMO, Iyi-Enu Mission Hospital and leaders of the community. offerred members Adesimbo Ukiri, the MD/CEO, Avon HMO, said the company is thrilled to witness the steady growth of the Idemili Community Health Plan, as more residents from surrounding areas learn about it and sign up to enjoy the numerous benefits on offer.

“As the impact of our community health campaign touches hundreds more every day, we hope to see even more remarkable growth in the near future.

“We are passionate about ensuring people are able to live healthier and fuller lives. We do much more than just offer subscription to health plans; we also have a strong focus on preventive health,” Ukiri noted.

Avon recently rolled out an SMS campaign to educate its enrolles within Idemili on the signs and symptoms of chronic disease, teaching them how to adhere to a healthier lifestyle and prevention and management of diabetes and hypertension.

COMMON SEXUAL PROBLEMS AND THEIR NOVELTY BASED SOLUTIONS (ADVERTORIAL)

I

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One of such pheromones is the Optimale Pheromone Cologne for men – Uche I don’t know if you can help me but I want a lubricant that stops sexual pain. I used to react to some of the ones I bought in the past. I don’t know if you something that I can use – Sylvia There are a few people with sensitive skin who react to some lubricants. Looks like you are one of those. In that case get the Mood Sensitive Lubricant. It is made especially for sensitive skins and lubricates quite well – Uche I have heard of an arousal ointment for erection that somebody can use if they don’t want to take drugs. I am diabetic and I have weak erection – Mohammed Yes there are a few of them out there like the Max for Men Arousal Oil and Dickalicious Penis Arousal Gel. The thing about these gels however is that while they are cheaper and work for some people, they don’t always work for everybody. So you can give it a try or you can take an erection supplement that works well for diabetics. It is called Libigrow and it also helps you have sex for longer – Uche My wife and I have been trying to have a baby for the past four years without luck. A friend told me you can help. I will really appreciate it. I believe the C M Y K

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Now that you no longer get an erection at all, what you need now is a natural aphrodisiac like Libimax Plus or Rhino 7. Any of these super supplements will give you strong erections whenever you need it, help you last longer and give you stamina for hours of performance even at you age. They also enlarge the penis with consistent use – Uche That’s it for today. The names of the people featured here have been changed for privacy. Adults in need of the above novelties and treatments can call us on 07086754515 or 08171912551 or any other number here to order or they can order online at www.zeevirtualmedia.com. We deliver to you wherever you are in Nigeria. For enquiries email us at custserv@zeevirtualmedia.com - Uche Edochie, MD, Zee Virtual Media.

46 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 2016

Suppor ters mourn as Irish fan plunges to death

Clark's own-goal rescues Sweden R

EPUBLIC of Ireland had to settle for a 1-1 draw with Sweden in their opening Euro 2016 game at Stade de France yesterday.

The Irish started well but the early stages were starved of clear cut chances until John O’Shea popped up unmarked at the back post following a corner.

But the veteran defender could not sort his feet out in time, allowing Ciaran Clark’s knockdown to fly harmlessly across the face of goal, much to Sweden’s relief.

The impressive Jeff Hendrick was next to go close but the midfielder ’s effort cannoned back off the bar with goalkeeper Andreas Isaksson well beaten.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic was forced to operate on the fringes of the game but Ireland, for all their dominance, went in level at the break.

However, Martin O’Neill’s side came flying out of the blocks for the second half and Wes Hoolahan put them in front courtesy of a composed half volley.

GTBank Lagos Principals Cup: Dairy Farm, Ikotun retain titles

Brazil crash out as Peru, Ecuador advance P

By Okeke Chinwe

D

IARY Farm Senior Secondary School, Agege, successfully defended their title after winning this year’s GTBank Lagos Principal’s Cup. The school on Friday in Lagos humiliated Ejigbo Senior Secondary School 61 to win the boys category th of the 7 Annual GTBank Principal’s Cup. Ikotun Secondary School also clinched the title in the female category after defeating CMS Grammar School 2-1 in a match that preceded the boys’ final.

The competition started in January with secondary schools drawn into groups for the male and female categories.

The winners in both male and female categories have each won it three times.

The winners of 2016 edition, Diary Farm Secondary School also won the title in 2012.

Sanya Senior Secondary School, Surulere, emerged third place winners in the female category, while Ikeme Balogun Senior College, Ikorodu, emerged third in the male category.

Also Favour Chukwu from Ikotun High School was voted the Most Valuable Player (MVP) in the female category, while Eniayewu Hammed won that of the male category. st nd rd th 1 , 2 , 3 and 4 place winners in both the male and female categories were awarded cash prizes of N1million, N750,000, N500,000 and N250,000 respectively.

ERU stunned Brazil, 1-0, on Sunday night in Foxborough, Mass., eliminating Brazil from the Copa América Centenario on a late goal by Raúl Ruidíaz that might have been a hand ball.

Peru will face Colombia in the

HEADER . . . Ireland’s James Mccarthy is airborne as he goes for the ball during their Group E match against Sweden in Paris.

quarterfinals on Friday after winning Group B by beating Brazil for the first time in 31 years.

When Ruidíaz, a second-half substitute, deflected the ball into the net off an Andy Polo cross, Brazil goalkeeper Alisson immediately complained that the ball had also made contact

NOC, Broadcasters get ready for Rio Olympics

F

RIDAY, August 5, 2016, will be a watershed in the annals of world sports, as the main bowl of the historic Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, plays host to the Opening Ceremony of the 2016 Summer Olympic Games.

Already, excited International Olympics Committee (IOC) officials, the Nigeria Olympics Committee (NOC) media team led by amiable Tony Ubani, the Creative Directors of the ceremony will be with two renowned Brazilian film directors: Fernando Meirelles of the City of God and The Constant Gardener fame and Daniela Thomas who co-directed the handover from London 2012 and Andrucha

Waddington.

The ceremony will kick off the world’s biggest sporting carnival. The Olympics is simply the biggest multi-sport event in the world. The Rio Games are already being tipped to eclipse the London Games with 42 Olympic sports and 306 events over the course of 19 days of intense competition.

Nigeria’s flag will be flown at the Games with participation in football for men, basketball for men, athletics, wrestling, table tennis, boxing and several other sports.

With the Super Eagles having dropped out of the 2017 AFCON in Gabon, the Olympics is the next frontier for Nigerian football.

with Ruidíaz’s hand.

After a lengthy discussion by the referees, the goal was allowed in the 75th

UPPORTERS of S Northern Ireland left jerseys, flags and flowers at

the place in Nice where a compatriot lost his life on Monday morning.

NorthernIrelandfanshave paid tribute to the supporter who tragically passed away on Monday following a fatal accident in Nice. The fan fell from a promenade onto a rocky beach near Castel Plage at the Quai des EtatsUnis in the aftermath of NorthernIreland’s1-0Group C defeat at the hands of Poland at the Stade de Nice and died from his injuries.

Many Northern Ireland fans have already left Nice ahead of their country’s second group game against Ukraine in Lyon, but there is a sombre mood among the fansstillinthebeachcity,with several supporters visiting the scene of the sad accident on Monday to pay their respects to their compatriot, leaving flowers, jerseys, scarves and flags alongside the railing he fell over.

minute.

Brazil had advanced to the quarterfinals of every Copa América since 1993.

Durban 2016: Athletes are ready, Nigeria is not – Egwero •••CAA thumbs up SA preparations

By Ben Efe

A

THLETICS Federation of Nigeria has named 28 athletes who will represent Nigeria at the 20 th Africa Athletics

•Egwero

Championships billed for Durban, South Africa June 22-26.

But top sprinter, OghoOghene Egwero revealed yesterday that there was no indication Nigeria is ready to motivate her athletes to sweep the medals even as the hosts South Africa, are set to maintain their stronghold of the championships they won in Marrakesh, Morocco.

“The athletes as usual are ready to give their best but Nigeria is not ready. We have been training on our own. I have no idea when we will be leaving for South Africa,” said the athlete yesterday.

The athletes selected include Blessing Okagbare, Gloria Asumnu, Chioma Agwunobi , Jennifer Madu, Regina George, Margaret Bamgbose, Chinwe Okoro, Okwologu Nneke, Naomi Osasuwa, Augustus Toyin and Claire Uke.

•Ruidíaz Others are Adekunle Fasasi, Paul Dedewo, Chidi Okezie, Stephen Mozia, Miles Ukaoma, and Olamide Olagoke, Doreen Amata, Osasuwa, Patience Okon George, Yinka Ajayi,Omolara Omotosho, Peace Uko, Brume Ese, Ogho Egwero, Divine Oduduru, Obina Metu, Orukpe Erayokan and Adams Samuel Kure.

Meanwhile the Confederation of Africa Athletics has commended the hosts on their preparations.

This follows a threeday intense inspection on progress of King’s Park Athletics Stadium.

Sam Ocheho–Innjoo Handball tourney: Atusu hails standard of matches

By Solomon Nwoke

T

ECHNICAL CommitteeChairman oftheHandballFederationof Nigeria(HFN),PatrickAtusu hashailedthestandardofplay rd at the ongoing 3 Sam Ocheho-InnjooInternational Handball Championship at

Rowe Park Sports Complex, Yaba, Lagos.

This is as Beninoise female rivals, Flowers of Benin RepublicandASPACthrilled handball fans yesterday with their game artistry A more determined Flowers side defeated their sister team 27-21, which to

them(Flowers),wastheirown poundoffleshfromthedefeat theysufferedtoASPAC inthe Benin Republic National Championship.

Assistant coach of Flowers, Moses Jegede lauded his players,addingthatthevictory would boost the morale of the players who now have two

wins from two games, same as ASPAC. However, assessing the standardofthechampionship which played into day three yesterday, coach Atusu said theinvolvementoftheforeign teamsinthechampionshipwill certainly rub off on the local players and elevate the standard of the game in

Nigeriamore.

“The standard of the Championship is high considering the fact that foreign teams are participating.Theinvolvement oftheforeignplayerswillhelp toexposeourplayersthemore because we lack enough competitions that will help to expose our players, he said.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 2016 — 47

NFF upholds ban on Giwa FC *Slams additional fines on the club

T

HE Nigeria Foot ball Federation Disciplinary Committee has overwhelmingly upheld the decision of the League Management Company to expel Giwa FC from the Nigeria Professional Football League.

The League Management Company announced the expulsion of the Jos Elephants last month after the side failed to show up for their Week 18 clash against Enyimba. The club then took its case to the NFF Disciplinary Committee.

Rising from its sitting in Abuja Monday, the NFF Disciplinary Committee found Giwa FC in breach of Rule B13.28 of the NPFL Frame Work and Rules which states that “ If a club fails to honour three matches cumulatively within the League season without an acceptable reason to the LMC such a club shall be expelled from the League and its matches played and unplayed

shall be cancelled”.

The committee also handed the club a fine of N10,000,000 (Ten Million Naira Only) to pay to the LMC, in line with rule B13. 25 of the NPFL Frame Work and Rules.

Similarly, the club

shall pay the Sum of N650,000 to offset the expenses of the match officials to the LMC and another N1m to Enyimba FC to offset expenses incurred during the botched trip to Ilorin.

Therefore, the commit-

tee decided that “the decision of the LMC as contained in the Summary Jurisdiction Notice dated 3rd May, 2016 is hereby upheld by the Nigeria Football Federation Disciplinary Committee.” The committee stated that parties have 48hrs to appeal the decision its decision.

I

a meeting of my executive to deliberate on how well to pay tribute to Stephen Keshi when like a thunderbolt, news filtered in that coach Amodu Shuaibu was also no more…….”

These were the pathetic words of Chief Jonath-

Amadu Continues from BP

Amadu who was at the centre of the crisis while in office has been variously quoted by the warring groups to have at one time or the other favoured them said he had never told anybody that there was an election into the board of the NFF on August 26, 2014.

The chairman of Giwa FC of Jos, Chris Giwa has been leading a group claiming to have been elected into the NFF board on August 26, 2014 at a congress in Abuja.

The former scribe who was at the NFF secretariat to commiserate with the management and staff over the deaths of Coaches Stephen Keshi

T

HE semifinals of the annual NNPC/ Shell Cup football competition organised for secondary schools in the 36 states of the country takes centre stage today in Lagos. In the first semifinal match, FOSLA Academy, Abuja takes on Asegun Comprehensive High School, Ibadan at 2pm at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere.

The second semifinal between Government Science Secondary School, Bauchi and Excel Education Centre, Port Harcourt, will come up by 4pm at the same venue.

The young players are

expected to intensify efforts to put up a good performance because the best two players in the competition will travel to Holland for a further training session with the Feyenoord Rotterdam’s Football Academy.

The communication Manager of Shell Petroleum, Sola Abulu, who represented the General Manager of the company, Igo Weli, at the weekend during a press briefing, noted that the organization was proud of the completion which has produced some great players for the country.

DStv Basketball: Pillars, Falcons, 6 others qualify for Final 8

R

L-R: Mr Segun Agbaje, MD/CEO, GTBank; Sheriff Sholola, Captain of the Winning School, Dairy farm Senior Secondary School, Agege,; Dr. Idiat Oluranti Adebule, Deputy Governor, Lagos State; Mr Fela Bank-Olemoh, Special Adviser to Lagos State Governor on Education and Mr Deji Tinubu, Chairman, Lagos State Sports Commission during the Season 7 Finals of the GTBank Lagos State Principals Cup held at Teslim Balogun Stadium, Lagos on Friday. Photo Lamidi Bamidele

Veterans preach peace at Keshi, Amodu demise “ had just summoned

NNPC/Shell semifinals take place in Lagos

an Ogufere, President of the Sports Veterans Association, Nigeria on the sad news of the passing of two of Nigeria’s best coaches within four days. On behalf of the Veterans, Chief Ogufere said they like other Nigerians all over the world are in deep sense

of shock.

“The coincidence is devastating, the effect numbing. In Keshi and Amodu we have lost the best there is in Nigerian coaching history, men synonymous with excellence, patriots to the core who did not believe that there was an-

and Shuaibu Amodu also used the opportunity to clear the air concerning his much talked about visit to the Court of Arbitration for Sports in Switzerland.

“To put the record straight, I went to CAS to testify when a group of people claiming to be the NFF took FIFA to Court because they did not recoganize them.

“I told them that no election took place on that day. And I stand here before God and man to reiterate that no election took place on August 26 and it as simple as A, B,C and everybody in Nigerian football knows my stand and that what I said is the truth.

“However, I still urge everybody to please join

hands to end this crisis because it is not doing Nigerian football any good. If somebody feels aggrieved, they should find a means within the rules of the game to solve it. If A is in charge, they should make peace with B and vice versa, Nigerian football is suffering and we are out of the Nations Cup and very soon the World Cup draws will take place and Nigeria cannot afford not to be at Russia 2018.” On the delay of the NFF in moving over to the new secretariat at the Package B of the Abuja National Stadium, Amadu argued that he believes that the federation has a lot of competing demands adding that they will surely move over in due time.

ything inferior about the Nigerian coach and lived their lives to the end, defending and propagating the best that was Nigerian.

The Veterans noted that there is a growing danger in trying to apportion blames as to the cause or otherwise of their deaths and pleaded for restrains. “

Basketball results (Olympic qualifier)

China 77 Venezuela 59 Argentina 75 Cameroon 64

EURO 2016 Continues from BP

stubborn opponents.

Alvaro Morata, Jordi Alba and David Silva had earlier efforts saved as the holders lacked a cutting edge.

Spain had also survived a scare when Cesc Fabregas hooked a Theodor Gebre Selassie header off the goalline.

Vladimir Darida had a chance to equalise for the Czech Republic but Spain keeper David de Gea, who had started despite allegations against him in the Spanish press in the buildup, blocked his volley from 10 yards.

EGULAR season leaders, Kano Pillars and Kwara Falcons cruised past all opponents as both teams topped the Savannah and Atlantic Conference in the Just concluded conference play-offs.

Pillars who lost 2 regular season games took down all opposition in the Savannah Conference Play-offs going 5 of 5 to seal their place in the DStv Premier Basketball League Final 8.

Joining them in the Final 8 is surprise package, Plateau Peaks tutored by female coach Jacqueline Niagwan and premier league returnees Niger Potters.

Potters beat defending champions Mark Mentors to end their quest for qualification to the Final 8.

It was their third

Nigeria Continues from BP

Five tournament held last month in UK, finishing bottom of the table.

The team had just one win over Tanzania and lost to Oman, Guernsey, Vanatu and Jersey. The team also lost to Tanzania again to claim the bottom spot. Jersey went on to become champions.

Federation president, Emeka Onyeama added that national chief coach Uthe Ogbimi has also been relieved of his duty with the team. He blamed Ogbimi and the team Captain Kunle Adegbola for the embarrassing campaign. He however refused to blame the Indian level A

crushing defeat- having already lost to Pillars and Bulls earlier.

Nwakali Continues from BP

month after he has signed a professional contract later this month with the English Premier League.

Nwakali, who recently turned 18, will travel to England later this month to sign the dotted lines with ‘The Gunners’ and he said he will join them afterwards for pre-season. “I will sign this month now that I’m 18, and then I will travel for pre-season next month,” he said. The deal that will see the Nigeria U20 international move to the Emirates had been somewhat protracted, but has now been sorted.

Nwakali shone as Nigeria won the FIFA U-17 World Cup last year in Chile. coach who joined the team on the eve of their departure to UK. According to him, the team underperformed despite having intensive preparations and increment of their daily allowance to $100 per day from the old regiment of $25- $50 per day.

He declared that the federation would now undertake a rebuilding process where young players from the U-19 team would be upgraded to the national team.

He said a new national coaching crew will be announced in the wake of the proposed North West Africa Tournament and ICC/Africa T-20 tournament scheduled for September.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 2016

Nwakali for Arsenal pre-season

N

IGERIA youth international Kelechi Nwakali has said that he will join Arsenal for pre-season next

Continues on Page 47

Nigeria sacks national team, coaches I

N a bizarre, yet not unexpected move, the Nigeria Cricket Federation has sacked the entire men’s cricket team and their Indian coach, Shriam Regananthian.

This was after the side failed in the ICC World Cricket League Division Continues on Page 47

COPA AMERICA:

Brazil crash out

*Nwakali

—P.46

EURO 2016: Pique inflicts pain on Czech CELEBRATION: Gerrard Pique (m) is surrounded by teammates after heading in the winner for Spain, yesterday. Spain beat Czech Republic 1-0.

Amadu nails Giwa, others

BY JUDE OPARA, Abuja

F

ORMER general secretary of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Barr. Musa

Amadu who was at the centre of the election crisis that rocked the federation in 2014 yesterday broke his silence

T OD AY'S PUZZLE ODA

over the lingering crisis rocking the nation’s football for the past two years.

Continues on Page 47

YESTER DAY'S YESTERDAY'S

ANSWERS

S

PAIN’s attempt to win a record third European Championship in a row began with a last-gasp victory over the Czech Republic.

Gerard Pique headed in a late Andres Iniesta cross, finally breaking the resistance of their Continues on Page 47

EURO 2016 Results Spain Ireland Belgium

1 1 0

Czech Rep Sweden Italy

0 1 2

Today’s Matches Austria Portugal

v v

Hungary Iceland

5pm 8pm

QUICK CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Go by (4) 4 Mouthful (3) 6 Quote (4) 8 Comfort (6) 9 Rebel (6) 10 Encountered (3) 12 Moor (5 14 Coach (5) 15 True (5) 18 Erase (6) 20 Colour (6) 24 Teacher (5) 26 Upset (5) 28 Pair (5) 30 Aye (3) 32 Sullen (6) 33 Canned (6) 34 Yield (4) 35 Circuit (3) 36 Nobleman (4)

DOWN 2 Over (5) 3 Alarm (7) 4 Appear (4) 5 Saucy (4) 6 Shroud (5) 7 Speaking (7) 11 Epoch (3) 12 Brick-carrier (3) 13 Heated (3) 16 Still (3) 17 Fate (3) 19 Burst (7) 21 Plunder (3) 22 Dispose (7) 23 Stretch (3) 25 Employ (3) 27 Lax (5) 29 Applaud (5) 30 Shout (4) 31 Cease (4)

YESTERDAY'S SOLUTIONS ACROSS: 3, Meant 9, Climax 10, Ailing 11, Debit 12, Over 15, Tarn 17, Perhaps 20, Let 21, Tense 23, Tome 25, Pail 26, Enter 28, Orb 30, Reverse 33, Rear 35, Reel 36, Lemon 38, Animal 39, Sordid 40, Glued.

DOWN: 1, Scoop 2, Rider 3, Mad 4, Exempt 5, Nail 6, Tit 7, Rival 8, Agent 13, Venture 14, Rhyme 16, Recluse 18, Sever 19, Asp 22, Eager 24, End 27, Repose 28, Organ 29, Basic 31, Rady 32, Elude 34, Sell 36, Lag 37, Nod.

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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