‘Eight hurdles PDP must quickly clear

...towards a better life for the people

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VOL. 25: NO. 61970

ONLINE | www.vanguardngr.com

N150

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013

Tragedy CBN quits lender 2014 WORLD CUP: The of Victory of last resort role Ethiopia is Eagles' by 2016 — PAGE 3 final hurdle 56

Brigadier- General Godwin Alabi-Isama continues his account of the Nigerian Civil war with how he recruited the boys and men that made the military tick, how the Army was politicised and costly blunders made by Biafra. Only in Vanguard. See pages 32, 33 & 34. The book is available in bookstores and online at amazon.com

‘Eight hurdles PDP must quickly clear’

BY CLIFFORD NDUJIHE, BEN AGANDE, HENRY UMORU & CHARLES KUMOLU

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CONTENTIOUS ISSUES NGF CRISIS

RIVERS PDP

Attempt to make PDP BOT asked Amaechi to step to work out down middle ground unresolved

TUKUR

APPOINTMENTS

Presidency to work with governors Committee to resolve calls for in selecting new ministers and Tukur's removal other political appointees

AGOS — A CLEARER picture of what the feuding camps of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, discussed at their Sunday’s make-or-mar meeting in Abuja emerged yesterday. To resolve the raging inferno, both camps, Vanguard gathered, identified at least eight thorny Continues on Page 4

Newly wed couple, 2 others die in auto crash •P.6 COLUMNIST:

•P.17

Mr & Mrs

HAJJ—Intending C M Y K

Muslim pilgrims boarding for Hajj at the Ibadan International Airport,yesterday. Photo: NAN.

2 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013

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Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013 — 3

Jonathan to forward 2014-2016 mid-term expenditure to N-Assembly

BY JOHNBOSCO AGBAKWURU & JOSEPH ERUNKE

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Federal Capital Territory, FCT. He said the Senate President, David Mark, would deliver an address today on the direction of the Senate after its seven-week recess.

The Petroleum Industry Bill, PIB, constitution review, emergency rule, Rivers crisis, 2014 budget among others are expected to top agenda.

According to the Senate Notice Paper for today, the report of the Committee on the Establishment

and Public Service on the National Assembly Service Commission Act Cap N7 2004 (Repeal and enactment) Bill 2013 is expected to be laid.

The report of the Committee on Foreign Affairs on the screening of presidential nominees for the appointment as career and non-career ambassadors is also to be considered.

Report of the Committee on Health on the National Health

Bill 2013 (consideration); a Bill for an Act to amend the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund Act CAP N88, LFN, 2004 to provide Social Security/Protection to all eligible citizens of Nigeria who are ordinarily resident in Nigeria whether employed both in the private and public sector, unemployment and aged without discrimination and related matters 2013, also top issues of the day’s discussion.

BUJA—THE Senate yesterday, disclosed that President Goodluck Jonathan would soon forward the 2014-2016 Medium-Term Expenditure Framework, MTEF, and Fiscal Strategy Paper, to the National Assembly in line with the Fiscal Responsibility Act. Chairman, Senate Committee on Rules and Business, Senator Ita Enang, PDP, Akwa Ibom North East, who stated this while briefing newsmen, said the 20142016 MTEF was expected to contain the Federal Government’s projected revenue, as well as the crude oil benchmark for the years under review.

He said the two ingredients were needed in the preparation and subsequent consideration of the 2014 national budget, being expected by the President.

The oil benchmark price of $75 per barrel arrived at for the 20132015 fiscal year’s was subject of intense horse trading between the executive and the House of Representatives.

A $79 per barrel oil benchmark was later agreed for the 2013 budget.

Enang said the Senate on resumption from its two-month annual recess, would give priority to the expected conference report of the National Assembly committees on the review of the 1999 constitution, as well as issues VISIT—From left: Former Governor of Abia State, Dr. Orji Kalu and Kano State Governor, Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, who visited him in his Lagos residence, weekend. related to the development of the

CBN quits lender of last resort role by Dec 2016

BY EMMA UJAH, ABUJA BUREAU CHIEF

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BUJA—THE Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, has set December 2016 deadline to terminate its role as Lender of Last Resort for the Real-Time Gross Settlement, RTGS, payment system, in the country.

Prior to 2006, large value payments in Nigeria were settled through a deferred net settlement system and the CBN had to commence operations of RTGS System to increase the efficiency of time-critical payments, given the defects of the net settlement system and in view of the sensitive nature of wholesale payments, which were settled through a deferred net settlement system.

The CBN, Governor, Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi disclosed this at the opening of the International Conference on Payments System and launch of the revised Nigerian Payments

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System Vision2020 Strategy document, in Abuja, yesterday According to him, the decision was one of the key recommendations of the revised Nigerian payments Systems Vision 2020.

Sanusi said: “It is pertinent to note that the key recommendations resulted from a much higher target for compliance than was possible

in 2007, due to the significant progress already achieved.

“Specifically the Central Bank of Nigeria shall: ensure that henceforth, no national payments system shall invoke the principle of unwind. CBN will formally inform the industry that unwinds must not be invoked in any national payment system. Each

payment scheme must define and formally document the exact point at which payments are deemed to be ‘final and irrevocable’; remove its implicit role of ‘Lender of Last Resort’ for the RTGS payment system

by December 2016 and Deferred Net Settlement systems by December 2019.”

Mobile technology'll boost payments system — Sanusi

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HE CBN boss said the Nigerian Payments System would witness a boost when several proposed mobile technology initiatives become operational.

Sanusi said “the application of mobile technology for financial services, especially in rural areas will ensure that a large percentage of the population outside the formal banking system would have access to financial services” and the draft National Payments System Bill, which is undergoing approval process is expected to address legal barriers to electronic payments."

The CBN chief expressed optimism that the on-going implementation of biometric solution as part of the requirements for the opening of accounts would address the challenge of unique identifier in Nigeria; while the adoption of end-to-end electronic payments by Federal Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies, MDAs, for the payment of allowances to employees, pensioners and social beneficiaries would also boost card payment in Nigeria.

With increased implementation of shared services initiatives championed by the CBN, Sanusi said the cost of banking services would be reduced by at least 30 percent and that it would have a positive impact on e-banking services in the country.

...says epileptic power supply, inefficient communications crippling e-payments system

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HE CBN Governor, Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi has identified epileptic electric power supply and inefficient communications networks as major impediments to the Nigerian payments system.

He said: “In spite of the success so far recorded, the Nigerian payments system continued to face some daunting challenges, including: infrastructure deficit

(power and communication network), slow adoption of epayments due to prevailing cash culture and merchant’s apathy to POS terminals due to transaction fee”.

Sanusi added that the high illiteracy level coupled with low level of public awareness on the existence of some epayment products, concentration of e-payment

facilities in the urban centre and unavailability of financial services in most rural areas, lack of effective national identification system, and the absence of e-payment laws or National Payments System Act, were other factors impeding the growth of e-payments system in the country.

The apex bank, he said

recognized that innovations in payments system require institutional support, which was why it has issued several relevant rules and regulations, to provide a level playing field for stakeholders, as well as, foster consensus and cooperation amongst a broad number of payments service providers and enhance public confidence in the system.

4—Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013

POCKET CARTOON which it dissolved last week

Decisions of the meeting

President Goodluck Jonathan (R) presenting a Souvenir to the out-going Ambassador of Burkina Faso, Mr. Dramane Yameogo at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, yesterday.

‘Eight hurdles PDP must quickly clear’ Continues from Page 1

issues that must be amicably resolved. Some of the issues were ironed out through a joint resolution, a few were partially resolved and the very contentious ones that inflamed passions and on which the meeting couldn't reach an agreement were farmed out to a committee to be

raised by the party to try and resolve them ahead of the October 7 rescheduled meeting.

For instance, the leadership crisis in Adamawa State PDP was resolved in favour of Governor Murtala Nyako. The state executive committee loyal to him, which was dissolved by the Alhaji Bamanga Tukurled national leadership

LIFEWORDS

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BY PASTOR ITUAH

LAMING creates enemies. The person you are blaming will ignore you, compile numerous proofs of their innocence, and resent you. And their friends will defend them and become your enemies.

Even your own friends will get fed up with your complaining and distance you.

TAKE HEART

BY ELLA RANDLE

Feelings are everywhere and the world is harsh enough. Just be gentle — J. Masai

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HIS is an interesting story about being con siderate with the feelings of other people whose lifestyles and customs are different from ours. During a diplomatic reception for a visiting Chieftain from another continent, an etiquette rule was breached unknowingly by the guest of honour at the dinner party. All went well during the meal until, at the end, finger bowls were served. The guest of honour had never seen a British finger bowl, and no one had thought to brief him beforehand about its purpose. So not knowing what else to do, he took the bowl in his two hands, lifted it to his mouth and drank its contents down.

For an instant, there was breathless silence among the privileged guests, and then they began to whisper to one another about the breach of etiquette.

But the queen herself saved the moment when she likewise lifted her bowl to her lips and drank. The diners caught on and a moment later 500 surprised ladies and gentlemen simultaneously drank the contents of their own finger bowls. It was the queen’s tact and consideration that guarded her guest from certain embarrassment. When we are dealing with people different from us. Remember different does not mean better or superior, it is just what it is – different. And it is in our differences and diversity that we all share a common bond in tuned with our humanity.

will be reinstated. However, the squabble over party structure in Rivers State was not resolved.

It is one of the issues that will be tackled by the yet-to-be empanelled committee. Among the eight issues are stopping President Jonathan from seeking re-election in 2015, disagreements over appointment of ministers, recall of Governor Amaechi from suspension and removal of Bamanga Tukur as National Chairman.

To discuss the outcome of the meeting, governors of the new PDP met last night, while Governor Rotimi Amaechi has called the meeting of the NGF today. Attendance of the meetings, conduct of participants and discussions therein will show how deep the unfolding reconciliation efforts have gone.

This is coming as chairman of the PDP Governors' Forum and Governor of Akwa Ibom Sttate, Godswill Akpabio, said that the PDP cannot afford to allow the crisis in the party to linger for too long because of its dire consequences for the nation as Special Adviser to the President on Political Matters, Ahmed Gulak said the crises would be resolved in accordance with the constitutions of the PDP and the country.

Meanwhile, the PDP hierarchy has inaugurated a care-taker committee for the Kano State chapter of the party,

Sources at the meeting told Vanguard that although all the issues have not been resolved, ‘tremendous success has been recorded and we have agreed to resolve the issues quietly.”

Said one of the sources: “We agreed that there should be no more writings in the media because some of the issues are personal and they are not something you redress in the media. We agreed to set up a committee to iron out the issues and implement the resolutions we reached.

“In Rivers, the party structure is the major problem. We agreed that the Board of Trustees should get involved and get both parties to withdraw the matter from the court so that we can arrive at a harmonious result.

In Adamawa, we agreed to re-integrate the party structure that was dissolved. The party structure before it was dissolved was with the governor and he demanded that it should be re-instated and we agreed. There was no Tukur ’s structure in the first place. We had always agreed that the dissolution of the Adamawa exco cannot be allowed to stand.”

According to one of the sources, both camps presented their grievances frankly, and the resolutions were a matter of give and take. “The committee being set up will look at the issues, there are about eight of them in number and resolve them quietly. The Baraje nPDP/Amaechi and the Tukur PDP have agreed on the methodology of settling the issues. We will not allow the crisis to fester because PDP is too large. If there is problem in the PDP, it will affect the whole nation.”

Reconciliation process ‘ll achieve permanent solution – Akpabio Speaking with State House correspondents after meeting with President Goodluck Jonathan, Akpabio said the reconciliation process initiated by the president

would achieve a permanent solution when the parties involved in the crisis meet again on October 7.

According to him, “we have started a process of total reconciliation and of course you know the house is very large, very robust and PDP is very entrenched and there is no way we can have internal wrangling without being able to resolve it. So, clearly speaking it was just a family disagreement and the processes are in place now to bring everybody on board and Nigerians are very happy”.

He said the meeting on Sunday night agreed that the issue of the president contesting again in 2015 should not be a basis for discussion because everybody is entitled to have ambition.

“On the issue of 2015, both sides agreed that it wasn’t an issue for discussion because every single person has a right to have ambition. Some of the governors may have ambition like I have ambition to go to Senate and you can’t discuss anything about another person’s ambition. You are the only person that can discuss your own ambition. Ambition is personal. So both parties agreed to that, “ he said.

He said modalities have been put in place to resolve all disagreements within the party, saying that all the issues would be handled individually.

“The disagreement differs from state to state.

So, it wasn’t as if there was a major issue with all PDP governors. There were few states that had difficulties. Some states complained about their delegates not being allowed entry to Eagles Square, some complained about party positions and some had

court issues. But these are all things that we cannot allow to affect the fabric of the party and of course by implication the fabric of the nation because the PDP is Nigeria.

“We have been in power for the past 14 years and Nigerians have confidence that this is the only truly national party that expresses true aspirations of all and sundry and of course it is also the only party that is not owned by any individual. It’s a party that belongs to all Nigerians. Even the market woman in Sokoto claims ownership of the PDP and of course the same thing with the trader in Akwa Ibom state. The same thing with somebody in the south west and the same thing in south east. So, the PDP is Nigeria and so anything that affects the PDP will affect the entire country. And so that is why we commend the President for the peace process, for his humility and for his decision to be a father to all and for behaving like a good shepherd where if one single sheep goes astray, he abandons the 99 to go and pick that one. And that was the spirit and everybody is coming on board now.

That process is going to be concluded on the 7th of October. We are all very excited.

The issues raised by aggrieved governors “We have put in place methodologies of settling them and of course it’s a process issue. Process is on. It was in the first place an internal issue of the PDP and so we are going to settle it internally and if you want to know how it is going to be settled, then Continues on Page 5

Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013—5

Abacha return to PDP, Metuh who noted that Abacha’s return was made possible by the Seriake Dickson-led reconciliation committee of the party, stressed that when Abacha met with Bamanga Tukur, he was told that the party was large enough to accommodate him.”

Baraje nPDP replaces treasurer, as Umar replaces Gwamna

BRIEFING—Chairman PDP Governors' Forum, Governor Godswill Akpabio of Akwa Ibom State briefing State Houyse correspondents on the meeting between President Goodluck Jonathan and the aggreived PDP governors at the State House, Abuja, yesterday. Photo: Abayomi Adeshida.

‘Eight hurdles PDP must quickly clear’ Continues from Page 4

you have to leave being a journalist to join the PDP family”, he said.

He dismissed fears that opposition parties may use the opportunity created by the crisis in the PDP to poach some members of the party.

“In the first place, the controversy was too minor for the opposition to feast on. Which opposition are you talking about, is it APC? Well, you know the only thing I can see for the APC, in 2015 is that they will change their name. They normally change names.

That is the only thing I know. I think they used to be AC, later they changed to ACN, then of course they now linked it with CPC and now they turn to APC and by 2015 it will be Panadol,” the governor said.

Tukur inaugurates caretaker cttee for Kano Strong indications emerged yesterday that the Alhaji Bamanga Tukur led PDP may have concluded arrangements to move against Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso of Kano as it has pleaded with son of late military head of state

and former governorship aspirant of Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) in Kano State, Mohammed Abacha to join its fold.

Tukur yesterday swore in Alhaji Hassan Kafayos and Andrew Musa as chairman and secretary, respectively of an 11member interim state executive of Kano State PDP, just as Mohammed Abacha yesterday stormed the PDP’s national secretariat with his supporters, after dumping the CPC which he joined in 2010 and also left same year, 2010.

Though the leadership of the party yesterday promised that all the interest in the party, including those of the Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso would be considered in the composition of the caretaker committee.

Speaking after swearing in the chairman and secretary of the Caretaker committee, Tukur who urged the committee to return to the state and ensure they retain the state for PDP, said that the party was not owned by any individual just as he pleaded for cooperation, adding, “the opposition in the state has become stronger than before. So make sure that the party is organised

and motivated and bring back PDP in 2015.”

In his response, Kafayos said the doors of the state party remain open to all factions of the party in the state.

Answering questions from Journalists after a close door meeting with members of the National Working Committee, NWC, Abacha who stressed that he did not consult the governor of the state, Rabiu Musa Kwankaso, even though he recognised him as the leader of the party in the state, added that the issue of waiver over his return to the party would be discussed later, which runs contrary to provisions of the party’s constitution in 8 A (b) that returnees to the party get waiver from the ward level up.

Abacha who said he was not returning to PDP to wrest power with the state governor said: “We had wide consultations with the people back home on the major issues that made us leave then and all the issues were cleared that is why we are. Power belongs to God, God gives power.

Nobody is here to wrest power from anyone.”

“I did not consult with Kwankwaso. I did not consult with him. I am

just coming back to the party. When I get back I will consult with him...

Of course Kwankwaso is the leader of the party in the state.”

On why he left the PDP then and coming back, the son of the late former head of State who noted that there was no internal democracy in the party, then, said, “I came to a realization that no other party captures the whole country, tribes and religions like the PDP. “That is why we have come back to make a formal declaration of our return to the PDP. We were received warmly by the National chairman, we are comfortable, we are welcome.”

Also speaking with Journalists after the NWC meeting of the party, the national publicity secretary of the PDP, Chief Oliseh Metuh, who admitted that the issue of waiver for Abacha’s return to the party was not discussed, said “the issue of waiver did not arise.”

Responding to whether the party was out to take over the structure from the governor Metuh said “we have no reason to exclude the governor from the PDP. On Mohammed

The Abubakar Kawu Baraje-led new PDP yesterday named Engr.

Abubakar Umar as its new National Treasurer, thereby replacing the immediate past Alhaji Tanko Gwamna.

In a statement by the new PDP national Publicity Secretary, Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, the party stated why Gwamna was sacked.

According to Eze, “We have read with dismay the purported resignation of our erstwhile National Treasurer, Alhaji Tanko Isiaku Gwamna, while the fact is that he was sacked by the party.

“Alhaji Gwamna’s fate was sealed when a report on his true status was tabled before the National Working Committee of PDP during its inaugural meeting held at the residence of the party’s National Chairman, Alhaji Abubakar Kawu Baraje, in Abuja on 15th Sept, 2013. The damning report on

Alhaji Gwamna was submitted by the PDP National Secretary, His Excellency, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola.

According to the report, it was found that Alhaji Gwamna was still loyal to the Tukur PDP. We are happy to announce the better qualified and more principled Engr. Abubakar Gambo Umar as his replacement with immediate effect.

We’ll resolve crisis in accordance with PDP constitution Special Adviser to the President on Political Matters, Ahmed Gulak has said that the crisis in the PDP would be resolved in accordance with the constitutions of the party and the country.

Speaking with state House Correspondents against the backdrop of a ceasefire reached between the president and some aggrieved governors of the party, Gulak said PDP has its internal mechanism to resolve its problems.

“Whatever crisis the outsiders may think we have, we are talking, we are dialoguing, peace is gradually returning to PDP in accordance with the constitution of the party and in accordance with the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Jonathan tasks African leaders on human devt BEN AGANDE

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BUJA—PRESI DENT Goodluck Jonathan has charged African leaders to work harder on improving the continent’s human development indicators.

He spoke during an audience with Zambia’s new High Commissioner to Nigeria, Lt.-Col. Bizwayo Newton Nkunika (rtd.).

According to Jonathan, while notable macro-economic growth had been achieved across the continent in recent years, African leaders must now focus more on translating such gains into improved living conditions for their people.

The President noted that Africa’s political independence would only become truly meaningful to its citizens with visible improvements in human development indicators such as reduction in poverty levels, access to better healthcare facilities, good education and employment opportunities for their children.

Remarking that the challenge of poverty unfortunately continues to blur other achievements in Africa since the continent attained political liberation, President Jonathan said that African leaders clearly needed to prioritize job creation and poverty reduction.

6—Vanguard , TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013

60-yr-old docked over impersonation

BY ONOZURE DANIA

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AGOS—A 60-yearold man, Mohammed Ibrahim, was, yesterday, arraigned before an Ikeja Magistrate Court, Lagos, over alleged impersonation and fraud.

The defendant, who was docked before Magistrate Abimbola Komolafe, is facing a three-count charge bordering on impersonation, fraud and stealing.

The defendant pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The Police prosecutor, Inspector Iranus Nnamonu, said that the defendant committed the alleged offence on September 12, at 1:20pm in Ikeja, by presenting himself as an officer of the Nigerian Police Force.

He said that with intent to defraud, the defendant introduced himself as a Police officer to one Ahmed Ibrahim.

The prosecutor, also claimed that the defendant fraudulently obtained N132,000 cash from his victim under false pretence that he was going to sell 16 rams to him, which he knew to be false.

Guard bags one month jail term

BY IJEOMA NATHANIEL

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AGOS—AN Ikeja Magistrate Court, Lagos, yesterday, sentenced one Ifeanyi Ezeibe, a security guard to one month imprisonment custody for theft preferred against him by the police.

The convict, who served as a security guard for one U.T. Financial Services company, was alleged to have stolen five car batteries property of one Ematele Joseph on September 10, at the premises of the company.

The police prosecutor, Inspector Samson Ekikere, told the court that the defendant was guarding the cars placed in his care and while doing so, a car battery was discovered stolen for which he pleaded guilty.

Later, it was discovered that all five batteries were missing.

Newly wed couple, 2 others perish in auto crash

BY EMMA UNA

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ALABAR—A newly married couple, Francis Edeh and Ann, along with two others died in a car crash, weekend on the UgepAbakaliki Road.

Francis and Ann, both from Ebonyi State and resident in Calabar, Cross River State, were heading to Abakaliki to thank family members, who attended their wedding the previous week, Saturday, September 7, in Calabar.

When they got to Amudo village, some 30 kilometres to Abakiliki, their vehicle developed an electrical fault prompting them to seek the services of an auto electrician.

Omaka, an electrician at Amudo told Vanguard: “The man came to my shop at 4p.m. and said his car had stopped and that he suspects an electrical fault. So I went with him on an Okada (commercial motorcycle).”

He said he did his best but could not repair the Toyota Camry car and sought the assistance of Luke, another electrician in the neighbouring town, Onueke.

When Luke came, there was trouble between the him and late Ann.

Quarrel

Omaka said: “Luke took an Okada from Onueke to Amudo and when he got here, he told Mr. Edeh to pay the Okada man.

“But his wife started shouting, saying why should her husband pay Luke’s transport fare, when he had not even touched the car.”

Omaka said despite the tensed atmosphere, Luke still went on with the work, but later advised the couple to leave the car till Monday. He said Ann became angry and the couple left for Abakiliki.

Omaka said: “They refused to take Luke’s advice. The next day, which was Sunday, they decided to come back to Amudo with Ortuh, another electrician in Abakalilki on a chartered vehicle.

On the way, the car had a burst tire and collided, headon, with a tanker and the four of them died.”

Drunk driver

A cab driver, Ogbada, told Vanguard that Ortuh used to be a tipper driver before he bought an Audi car with number plate, Akwa Ibom, AG 727, KST with the money he got from driving the tipper.

Ogbada said: “I was the one the couple contacted first. But

I did not want to go, so I gave it to the tipper driver.

“The man (driver) was drunk that morning and so he collected just N1,500 from the man even when we asked him to collect the complete sum for five passengers, which is N1,800 since the transport fare from Abakaliki to Amudo is N300 and his car carries five persons.”

‘I warned them’

Luke, the electrician in Onueke, said Ann was quarrelsome.

He said: “I told them not to repair that car till Monday, because my spirit told me something. But the woman was angry and thought I wanted to punish them.

“Why did the man have to take his wife again the next

day to Amudo to repair the car? Couldn’t she have stayed in Abakaliki, while he took Ortuh to repair the car?”

The tanker is still parked at the Onueke Police Station, while the bodies of the electrician and the driver were taken to their villages for burial. The couple’s bodies are at Onueke General Hospital mortuary.

ACCIDENTED: The car in which the couple perished.

Pregnant woman, 2 children burnt to death

BY EMMA UNA

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ALABAR—A pregnant woman, Ekaiquo Ewa, and her two children aged 7 and 3, were burnt to death, when a building that served as a residential building and business outlet caught fire, weekend, in Ugep, Yakuur Local Government Area, Cross River State.

The inferno, which engulfed the 27, Calabar Road house on Friday at 7p.m., caught the woman and her children in their one-room apartment, while her husband, Denis

Ewa, was away from the house.

Okoi, a mechanic, whose shop is close to the burnt house, told Vanguard: “We did not know the source of the fire. It is still a mystery how the fire started and spread so fast that the woman and the two children could not escape.”

The woman, Okoi said, was from Akwa Ibom State, while her husband is from Abini, a neighbouring village to Ugep.

He said: “They have been living here for some time and

the time the fire engulfed the house, Denis was not at home and effort by other tenants to stop the fire did not yield fruit as the flame was too fierce.”

The fire completely razed several motor parts and provision shops, which were in the front of the building.

“The fire started suddenly and was so fierce that nobody could salvage anything,” Okoi said.

The body of the woman had been deposited at the Ugep General Hospital Mortuary, while those of the children had been buried.

Nigerian runs amok in Ivory Coast, shot

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Nigerian, suspected to be mentally-deranged, Bethel Chima, has been shot on the legs after running amok with a cutlass inside a police station in Port-Bouet Abidjan, Ivory Coast.

Chima, who is in his 30s, was said to have been living in Abidjan for the past eight years. Nigerians residing in Port-Bouet said Chima started behaving abnormally about

three years ago.

A police source said that Chima stormed the police station on September 11 with a cutlass and chased policemen away from their duty posts.

The source further disclosed that the Nigerian dispossessed one of the policemen on duty of his riffle and began firing sporadically.

The source said that it took the swift intervention of an

anti-robbery team to bring the situation under control.

At Central University Hospital, CHU, Cocody, Abidjan, where he is currently receiving treatment, Chima said that the police was aware of his reason for attacking the station.

Chima, a Nigerian from Imo State, who sounded quite incoherently, accused the Ivorian police of using his name to play politics and

Vanguard , TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013—7

P I L G R I M AGE: Intend-

ing Muslim pilgrims boarding for Hajj at the Ibadan International Airport, yesterday.

Father catches man raping daughter

BY OLA AJAYI

I

BADAN—OYO State Police Command has arrested a man (names withheld) for allegedly raping a girl in Oluyole area of Ibadan.

He was said to have been caught raping the girl in a bush.

Vanguard gathered that the suspect allegedly lured the girl into the bush before forcefully having canal knowledge of her, while the victim was said to be shouting for help.

The cry reportedly drew the attention of her father, who rushed to the scene and caught the man in the act.

Police Public Relations Officer of the Command, Olabisi Clet-Ilobanafor, confirmed the story.

She said: “The father of the victim, who reported the crime, said he heard his daughter screaming in a nearby bush and that when he rushed there, he saw the suspect on top of his daughter, having canal knowledge of the victim by force.

“The father said he saw the suspect holding the girl by the neck.”

making so much money in return.

He said: “Two years ago, they burnt my house and everything I have acquired. They know why I came to attack the station.

You can ask them, they know.”

The Consular Officer of the Nigerian Embassy in Côte d’Ivoire, Mr. Obinna Ogbonna, who has visited Chima, said the mission would follow the matter according to the law.

After rescuing the victim, the suspect was arrested and

taken to the State Criminal Investigation Department, SCID. She said the state Commissioner of Police, Mr. Moham-

med Indabawa, had directed that the case be immediately charged to court like other rape cases.

Blind friends in court over wife ‘enticement'

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blind man, Shehu Sarki, 62, of Aso Pada, yesterday, told a Grade 1 Area Court, Mararaba, Nasarawa State, that he did not entice his friend’s wife.

The complainant, Shaibu Ibrahim, 56, also a blind man, had accused Sarki of enticing his wife Lami, 33, with money.

At the resumption of hearing, Presiding Officer, Mr. Albert Maga, asked the accused if he heard and understood the testimony given by the complainant at the last adjourned date.

Sarki said he understood and denied enticing Ibrahim’s wife.

Maga adjourned the case to September 25 for defence and advised the accused to come with all his witnesses.

On September 5, Ibrahim testified in the court as to how Sarki enticed his wife and took her away from him.

On that same date, Ibrahim said that he became friends with the accused in 2012, when the accused assisted him to secure accommodation at Gwagalape, near Nyanya in Abuja.

“He is richer than me”

He said: “He enticed my wife with money because he is richer than me. He took advantage of a little misunderstanding I had with my wife over N1,000 daily contribution.

“He was my good friend.

When he intervened, I thought he was concerned. I did not know that he had evil plans.”

Ibrahim had earlier told the court that the accused was the one that instigated his wife against him.

He said: “When I could not provide the N1,000 daily savings to my wife to enable us buy a house, he took my wife and gave her another room in his compound.

“Each time I go to see her or sit on her bed, she will send me out and say she has no business with me.

“He began threatening me.

He even told me that he has the money power to take my

wife and marry her.”

Ibrahim had alleged that his wife, through Sarki’s influence, had offered to pay him back the N19,000 he paid as dowry on her.

On August 27, Ibrahim had dragged Sarki, his friend and Chairman of the Blind Peoples’ Association in Aso Pada, to court for allegedly enticing his wife, Lami.

On the same date, Ibrahim told the court that the accused was the one that introduced him to Lami and later enticed her away from him.

2-yr-old marriage dissolved over wife's alcohol consumption

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Grade 1 Area Court sitting in Aso Pada, Mararaba, Nasarawa State, yesterday, dissolved a twoyear-old marriage between Choji, 51, and Dinatu Chung, 39, due to the wife’s excessive alcohol consumption.

The Presiding Judge, Mr. Albert Maga, dissolved the marriage after the two told the judge that they had yet to settle their differences.

Maga in his ruling, dissolved the marriage and ordered Choji to collect a divorce certificate from the court, and to pay Dinatu N4,500 for transportation.

He ruled: “Since the husband has insisted that the divorce be granted and the respondent did not object, I or-

der that Choji pays Dinatu N4,500 transport money.

“The marriage is hereby dissolved; the petitioner should go to the registrar’s office and get a divorce certificate.”

On May 14, Choji had filed a divorce suit before the court, seeking the dissolution of the marriage, due to his wife’s drinking habit.

He had said: “She drinks a lot of different types of alcohol, and when she does, she starts misbehaving with different men.

“There was a time I sent her back to our village to correct her attitude, but she ran back to me in Aso Pada.

“I cannot continue to stay with her. I am sick and tired of her excessive alcohol intake.”

50-yr-old accused of stabbing neighbour

BY BARTHOLOMEW MADUKWE

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50-year-old artisan, Christopher Ozor, was, yesterday, arraigned by the police, before an Igbosere Magistrate Court in Lagos, for allegedly using a broken bottle to stab his neighbour, Mr. Ikenna Chukwudi, on the head during a scuffle.

The accused, who lives at 30, Oyisa Street, Egan, Igando, Lagos, is standing trial on a charge of assault. He, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge.

The prosecutor, Insp Stephen Molo, informed the court that the offence was committed on August 27, at the said address, adding that the accused assaulted his neigbour with a broken bottle and other dangerous items.

He said: “The accused caused his neighbour injuries on his back and the right side of his head.

Chukwudi was, however, rushed to the hospital where he was admitted for seven days,” explaining that a quarrel between them led to the incident.

Molo told the court that the offence contravened Section 171 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011.

The Magistrate, Mrs I. Omotosho, granted the accused bail in the sum of N50,000 with one surety, and adjourned the case to October 9 for mention.

... teacher, for son's death

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IGAWA State Police Command, yesterday, said it had concluded arrangements to arraign a 49-year-old teacher, Bello Ahmed, in court for allegedly murdering his son.

The Command’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Abdu Jinjiri, said that the suspect would be charged for culpable homicide, in accordance with Section 222 of the panel code.

Jinjiri said the suspect was arrested on Sunday at Ganye quarters in Malam Madori council of the state.

He said the suspect had used a wooden cooking utensil to beat his 18year-old son, Dauda Ahmed, whom he accused of delinquency.

8—Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013

Sovereign Wealth Fund invests $200m in US bonds

4 oil firms, 2 CEOs arraigned over N2.9bn fuel subsidy scam

BY EVELYN USMAN

BY WILLIAM JIMOH, with agency reports

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I G E R I A’ S Sovereign Wealth Fund, SWF, has invested more than $200 million in the United States bond market.

The fund was given by the SWF to UBS, Credit Suisse and Goldman Sachs, to manage a fixed income portfolio.

The investment, though relatively small, adds Nigeria to the small cadre of commodity-rich countries that over the past decade have become one of the most powerful forces in global financial markets through their sovereign wealth funds.

Chief executive of the $1billion Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority, NSIA, Uche Orji, said the fund gave UBS $50 million last week to invest in US Treasuries. A further $150 million is being transferred this week to Credit Suisse and Goldman Sachs to build a US corporate bond portfolio.

Speaking to newsmen in Abuja, Orji, a former banker who was recruited to set up the fund last year further said, “This is a major milestone for us.”

Orji who had earlier in June said that he had delayed making any initial investments due to the volatility in global markets noted that he felt the bond market was now “fairly valued”.

The first investment comes ahead of this week’s crucial meeting of the Federal Reserve. The US Central Bank is likely to start phasing out its bond buying programme that has kept interest rates at ultra-low levels.

“There is more optimism now,” Mr Orji said.

The Nigeria sovereign wealth fund is the third largest in sub-Saharan Africa, after the $6.9 billion Botswana and $5 billion Angola funds, though tiny compared to those of oil producers such as Saudi Arabia, Norway and Abu Dhabi, which have more than $600 billion in assets each.

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AGOS—THE last may not have been heard about the fuel subsidy scam by some oil companies as the Special Fraud Unit of the Nigeria Police Force, have charged four companies and two Managing Directors/Chief Executive Officers to court for allegedly obtaining N2.9 billion from the Federal Government under false pretence of importing petroleum products into the country.

The companies which were also alleged to have made the claims through forged documents, included Geacan Energy Limited and its Managing Director, Petroleum Brokers Limited and its managing director, Lister Oil Limited and Oando Marketing.

The unit in a statement signed by its spokesperson, Ngozi Nsitume, explained that a petition was addressed to it by the Presidential Committee on Verification and Reconciliation of Fuel Subsidy payment. It added that carrying out verification of shore tank certificates and sales proceeds for all the fuel imported into Nigeria, discovered some infractions in the importation made by one of the companies.

The statement said the infraction was discovered “in the importation made by Geacan Energy Limited in April and October 2011, via vessels MT AIDIN and MT BRAVE, against which N2.9 billion was paid to Geacan Energy as subsidy. The case was investigated by detectives from the unit and a prima facie case has been established against the suspects.”

The suspects were charged and arraigned before Justice Mohammed Kurya of the Federal High Court, Ikoyi, on a seven count charge.

Count one read “that you Geacan Energy Limited, Chinyerem Anekwem Anike Nweze (F), Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Geacan Energy Limited; Petroleum Brokers Limited, Ogundipe Olanira (M), Managing Director/CEO of Petroleum Brokers Limited, Lister Oil and Oando Plc, between January and April 2011 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of the Federal High court, conspired among yourselves and with others at large, to commit a felony to wit, obtaining the sum of N1,323,162,160.76 as subsidy from the Federal Government under false pretence that Geacan Energy Limited imported and sold 17,837,160.00 litres of Petroleum Motor spirit, PMS, into Nigeria via vessel MT AIDIN (EX MT STENA FR8) and thereby committed an offence punishable under section 8(a)of the Advance Fee Fraud Related offences Act cap A6, laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004;

read with section 3(1) of the same Act.” Count two alleged that the Managing Director of GEACAN Energy Limited, Chiyerem Nweze made forged import and vessels documents to obtain the payment of fuel subsidy valued at N1. 3 billion, while count three alleged that GEACAN and its managing

director obtained N1.3 billion as fuel subsidy from the Federal Government between January and April 2011 on a false pretence that they had imported the product into Nigeria and sold 17,837,160.00 via an oil vessel.

In count four, Lister Oil Limited and Oando Plc were alleged to have aided Geacan

Energy Limited, its Managing Director and Petroleum Brokers Limited and its managing director to obtain the sum of N1.3 billion fuel subsidy from the Federal Government “on the false pretence that the said Geacan Energy Limited was imported and sold 17,837,160.00 litres of PMS via vessel MT AIDIN(EX MT STENA FR8)”

WORKSHOP—From left: NFIU Officer, Mrs. Hadiza Zubairu; Co-Chair Nigeria National Risk Assessment, Mr. Sam Onyeka; Mr. Oliver Stolpe of the World Bank; Mrs. Larissa Gray of the World Bank; Chairman Presidential Task Force on FATF, Mr. Steve Oronsaye and Mr. Kunta Celik of the World Bank during the opening session of the World Bank Facilitated Workshop on Money Laundering/Financing Terrorism National Risk Assessment at the Chelsea Hotel, Abuja, yesterday. Photo: Abayomi Adeshida.

Hearings on Ibori's assets confiscation begins in UK

BY JONAH NWOKPOKU, with agency reports

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BRITISH prosecutor has said that the former governor of Delta State who was convicted of corruption charges and is currently serving a jail term in London hid some of his assets in Oando Plc. The prosecutor, Sasha Wass told the court, yesterday, that money passed from the company’s accounts to Ibori’s Swiss account.

Reuter’s news agency reported that a three-week confiscation hearing began at London’s Southwark Crown Court yesterday during which prosecutors will present evidence of Ibori’s assets and seek court orders to have them seized.

Defence lawyers are, however, expected to dispute the prosecution case.

Wass told the Reuters without giving further details that, “The Crown will assert that Oando is a company where James Ibori has hidden assets.”

The matter was raised briefly as part of an initial discussion

of various aspects of the confiscation hearing. Details are expected to be disclosed later in the proceedings.

Oando is not a party to the case, although a British lawyer was in court representing the company’s interests.

This goes to prove

speculations from some quarters that Ibori stole more than suspected. For instance at the time of his sentencing in April 2012, Judge Anthony Pitts said the £50 million that he had admitted to stealing may be a ‘ludicrously low’ fraction of his total booty, which could be more than £200 million.

...Ibori doesn't own part of our assets — Oando

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N its reaction, Oando, however, denied that Mr Ibori owns a large part of its assets. The company in a statement said “We state categorically that Mr. James Ibori does not own ‘a large part of Oando’ and that this statement is incorrect and misleading. Oando is a publicly traded company listed on the Nigerian and Johannesburg Stock Exchanges and does not and cannot control the trading in its securities on the floor of the respective exchanges. Based on our current shareholding register, Mr. James Ibori’s shareholding stands at 443 shares out of a total issued and paid up share capital of 6.8

billion ordinary shares, which is clearly insignificant, and cannot be considered as ‘a large part of Oando’.

Continuing, Oando also stated that it does accept that sometime in 2004, in the normal course of its business, it sold some of its foreign exchange earnings for Naira and the recipient of the US Dollars was a company which has now turned out to be one controlled by James Ibori.

At the time of the transaction, this information was unknown to Oando. The total amount was $2.7 million made in three separate transactions over a period of about seven months. This amount was insignificant considering the company ’s turnover of approximately $800million in 2004.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013—9

C M Y K

10—Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013

Wife, friends stab husband to death, sister alleges

BY MONSUR OLOWOOPEJO

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35-YEAR-OLD car dealer, Mr. Kelvin Okhire, was allegedly stabbed to death, yesterday, by his wife, Mrs. Adesuwa and his corpse was deposited at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, LASUTH, mortuary, Ikeja, at about 3:00p.m.

It was gathered that few minutes after depositing the corpse, Adesuwa alerted the sister to the deceased, Ms. Lyn Okhire, who had been searching for the deceased Eye-witness at the hospital told Vanguard that when Lyn demanded to know the cause of her brother’s death, she was beaten up by Adesuwa and her cohort, one Festus.

Lyn , who spoke to vanguard with gloomy eyes, alleged that Adesuwa, Sonny and Festus stabbed Kelvin to death today, (yesterday) and carted away his property.

“When I sighted the corpse, I discovered that there were several marks on his body, which showed that he was stabbed to death.”

All efforts to speak with the wife, Adesuwa proved abortive as newsmen were barred from gaining access to her.

Paediatricians hold 2013 Faculty Day Lecture

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HE FACULTY of Paediatrics, National Post-Graduate College of Nigeria, will hold the 2013 Faculty Day Lecture Series titled, “ IS NIGERIA REALLY, THE WORST PLACE ON EARTH TO BE BORN IN 2013, “. On Wednesday 18th September 2013 at 10: 00am prompt.

The event which is expected to be very well attended by Medical Experts, Practitioners, other Paramedical and Affiliates, will hold at Malaria Research Center (MRC) of the LASUCOM, LAGOS STATE UNIVERSITY TEACHING HOSPITAL (LASUTH), Ikeja Lagos, where a very Seasoned Medical Expert, Astute Scholar and renowned Administrator, Professor Olusola Oyemade FMCP will be the Guest Lecturer of the day.

VISIT: Ogun State governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun with the chairman and members of Ogun State Elders Consultative Forum, during the visit of the elders to Oke-Mosan Governor’s Office, Abeokuta. Photo: Wumi Akinola

N27.7BN EFCC CASE AGAINST ATUCHE:

Utomi testifies in court

BY ONOZURE DANIA

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AGOS — A witness, in the on-going trial of the former Managing Director of Bank PHB (now Keystone Bank),Francis Atuche, Profes-

sor Pat Utomi, yesterday, told a Lagos High Court sitting in Ikeja that the loans granted by the former Managing Director of the Bank were ratified by the bank’s board of directors.

Atuche, his wife and a former Chief Financial Officer of the bank, Ugo Anyanwu, are being prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, for allegedly stealing N25.7

Dismiss N10.9bn theft charge, Nwosu, other Finbank directors tell court

BY ONOZURE DANIA

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AGOS — THE former Managing Director of Finbank Plc,Okey Nwosu alongside three other directors of the bank, yesterday, asked a Lagos High Court sitting in Ikeja to dismiss the alleged N10.9 billion theft charge preferred against them by the Economic and Finan-

cial Crimes Commission, EFCC. The defendants who made the request in separate nocase submission applications, filed by their counsel, argued that no prima-facie case has been established against them to warrant opening their defence.

Nwosu, alongside the other ex-directors, Dayo Famoroti, Danjuma Ocholi and Agnes Ebubedike, are being pros-

Women task Jonathan on gender balance

BY JOSEPHINE IGBINOVIA

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IGERIAN WOMEN under the aegis of National Coalition on Affirmative Action, NCAA, have asked President Goodluck Jonathan to ensure gender balance in his on-going cabinet reshuffle.

While applauding the target of 35 per cent the President had set for himself in line with the National Gender Policy 2006, the women urged him to implement it in his new cabinet.

Oby Nwankwo, Chair, NCAA, who appealed to Mr. President to continue in his determined path of ensuring women had the opportunity of contributing to Nigeria’s development, said what was notable about the ministers’ sack was that five out

of the nine ministers were women.

In a statement endorsed by the Gender and Constitutional Reform Network, GERCON, Women’s Rights Advancement and Protection Alternative, WRAPA and Advocates Research and Documentation Centre, WARDC, amongst others, the women applauded President Jonathan for almost meeting the 35 per cent target of women’s representation in cabinet positions, as well as other strategic appointments.

President Jonathan was therefore urged to remain resolute in his conviction for gender inclusion in governance by filling the five vacant cabinet positions with reputable women.

ecuted by the EFCC. They had been arraigned before Justice Lateefat Okunnu, of an Ikeja High court, for allegedly stealing the sum of N10.9 billion belonging to Finbank.

The EFCC had closed its case against the defendants on June 28,2013 after calling nine witnesses to testify against them.

The EFCC counsel, Mr. Rotimi Jacobs, SAN, had urged the court to order the defendants to open their defence.

However, the defence counsel, James Ocholi, SAN, Seyi Sowemimo, SAN, and Okorie Kalu, yesterday, notified the court that they have filed their separate no-case submissions to the charge.

They said the applications had been served on the prosecution.

Confirming the service, Jacobs told the court that the prosecution’s counter-affidavits in opposition to the applications, were served on all the defendants on September 13, 2013.

The defence counsel further urged the court to grant them time to file their responses to the prosecution’s counter-affidavit.

However the judge adjourned the matter to September 30, for hearing of the nocase submission applications.

billion belonging to Bank PHB. While reading from the minutes of the Board of Directors’ meeting of Bank PHB on July 9,2008, Utomi, a former chairman of Bank PHB said the loans were ratified during the meeting by the members.

He said the credit facilities were granted to Extra Oil Ltd., in the tune of N3.9 billion; Tradjeck Ltd., N3.5 billion, Future View Securities Ltd., N3.5 billion; Petosan Oil and Gas Ltd, N4 billion and Falcon Securities, N8 billion.

Utomi, who was led in evidence by Atuche’s counsel, Chief Anthony Idigbe, said the ratification of the loans did not offend the code of corporate governance for banks in Nigeria.

He said:”In the business of banking which involves risk, it is the duty of the board to take decisions on the optimal risk that the bank can be exposed to.

“We always ensured that illegality was not pursued, but we also recognised that management needed to act and take risk on behalf of the bank,” he said While being cross-examined by the EFCC counsel, Mr. Kemi Pinheiro, SAN, Utomi maintained the fact that ratification of loans was a routine thing in all banks.

Earlier, the minutes of Bank PHB Board meeting, dated July 9,2008, was tendered before the court by an employee of Keystone Bank, Mr. Seyi Ogundipe.

The bank was subpoenaed by the court to present the documents and other vital documents needed for the trial, which were in its custody.

Further hearing in the matter will continue today.

Vanguard TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013—11

Oil output rises by 150,000bpd as Shell re-opens TNP … power supply to improve by 624MW

BY MICHAEL EBOH with Agency Report

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IGERIA CRUDE oil output, yesterday, rose by 150,000 barrels per day as Shell Nigeria said it has reopened its Trans Niger Pipeline, TNP, after about two months of closure.

The re-opening is also expected to boost the country’s power supply by about 624 MW, as the company’s Afam VI power was also shut down due to inadequate gas supply arising from the closure of the pipeline.

A spokesperson for Shell said

the pipeline was re-opened, September 8, adding, however, that the force majeure declared in April on benchmark Bonny Light crude oil grade remained in place.

Shell had shut the TNP in July following a leak on the Bomu-Bonny section at Owokiri, which was found to be caused by a six-inch crude theft valve placed on the line.

The shut-down came just days after Shell had re-opened the line following an explosion and fire in June at a point that had been targeted by oil thieves at Bodo West in the Niger Delta’s Ogoniland.

The Shell Petroleum Development Company, SPDC, stated in July that it estimated the total daily loss from the TNP shutdown to be roughly $15 million.

The closure of the line also hit Nigeria’s domestic power generation, with SPDC being forced to shut down the Afam VI power plant due to a shortage of gas arising from the closure of the pipeline.

Shell, had in a statement signed by Mr. Tony Okonedo, Corporate Media Relations Manager, said the shut-down of the TNP system, comprising the 28-inch and 24-inch streams resulted in the deferment of

VISIT: Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola and Managing Director, BritishAmerica Tobacco Nigeria, Mr. Keith Gretton, during a courtesy call on the Governor, at Lagos House, Ikeja, yesterday. Photo: Bunmi Azeez

150,000 barrels of oil per day, and also led to non-evacuation of condensate from Okoloma Gas Plant which supplies Afam VI Power Plant with feed gas.

Okonedo expressed concern about the negative impact of incessant crude theft activities on lives and environment in the Niger Delta, and also the shortage of electricity to businesses and households across the country.

He said: “SPDC had to shut down Okoloma Gas Plant, as it could not continue to produce gas without the evacuation of condensate. Afam VI Power Plant was available at 624MW capacity, but supplying only 105MW to the national grid due to reduced gas volume at the time of shut-down.

“The latest leak on the TNP occurred on the 24inch stream at Owokiri on 11 July. A Joint Investigation Visit comprising government agencies, community and civil society representatives and SPDC personnel found that unknown persons had installed a six-inch crude theft valve on the facility.

“SPDC repaired that leak, and is working to remove other crude theft points that were discovered in the process.

“The 28-inch TNP had earlier been shut in for removal of similar oil theft connections.

The company is striving to repair the TNP as quickly as possible, and restore operations that will enable power generation to resume at Afam VI.”

Alao-Akala backs Jonathan in PDP crisis

BY OLA AJAYI

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BADAN — Former Governor Adebayo Alao-Akala of Oyo State and thousands of his supporters have identified with President Goodluck Jonathan in the crisis rocking the Peoples Democratic Party.

Describing the crisis as reach-

ing a frightening proportion at a meeting in Ibadan with Oloye Jumoke Akinjide, the PDP chieftains expressed hope that President Jonathan, former President Olusegun Obasanjo and former military President, Ibrahim Babangida and other national leaders of the party would be able to address issues and achieve reconciliation.

They stressed that they had implicit confidence in the reconciliation efforts of the BOT chairman of the party, Chief Tony Anenih in reconciling the warring factions in the spirit of give and take.

Though, other chieftains of the party boycotted the meeting, it was well-attended.

The PDP chieftains, also

Fayemi eulogises Agagu as incomparable politician

BY OLA AJAYI

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BADAN — EKITI State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi has described late governor of Ondo State Dr. Olusegun Agagu as a committed political leader who operated in a manner that was above pettiness, rancour and the usual acrimony that is very pervasive in our politics.

In his condolence message when he paid a visit to the wife of late Ondo State Governor yesterday, he said late Agagu was supportive to his govern-

ment in Ekiti State and was helping with the solid minerals exploration.

According to Fayemi: “He was an advisor, a mentor and a committed political leader.

“In all my opportunities to discuss life, politics and academics with him, he always had something to teach me. He was an intellectual giant who left the comfortable world of academics for politics.

“He was not a criminal in government, he did his best focusing on the people at all times.

He was passionate in service.

We thank God for giving us

such a wonderful inspirational figure,” Fayemi stated.

In his own condolence, Chief Adeniyi Akintola (SAN), said the late governor was a man endowed with intellectual flavours.

In the condolence register, he wrote: “As a scholar, you were excellent and as an administrator, you were superb; as a politician, you were a gentleman and an apostle of politics without bitterness.

“You put intellectual flavour in all your dealings. Your words were laced with logic, sound reasoning and humility.

agreed that in view of the role played by Oyo State in the last election, they demanded that two ministerial posts be given to the state.

Chieftains like Senator Lekan Balogun, Alhaji Yekini Adeojo, Elder Wole Oyelese and others were not physically present at the meeting.

Akala, who read out the speech said, “we are aware of the importance of our state.

“It is for this reason we are here to make our input for the total reconciliation of the party, noting that when PDP sneezes, other political parties and in fact, the nation catch cold.” ”What marks us out from other political parties in the country is the vibrancy in our great party. It is the reason we must not allow this situation to degenerate into disintegration.” ”Therefore, we in Oyo State PDP, should stand up to be counted as loyal to Mr. President, who is pursuing the transformation agenda which is currently the flagship of our party’s programme and ideals,” he said.

Adelabu urges understanding as NBC demarcates boundaries for Ekiti, Osun, Kwara

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HE NATIONAL Boundary Commission, NBC, has been urged to expedite action at resolving unresolved lingering inter- and intra-boundary matters in order to establish perpetual peace and mutual understanding in the affected areas.

Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Professor Modupe Adelabu made the appeal while declaring open the joint meeting of officials on Ekiti/ Osun and Ekiti/Kwara inter-state boundaries, at the Lady Jibowu Hall, Government House, Ado-Ekiti.

She noted that quick and amicable resolutions of such boundary disputes will engender lasting peace and promote development in such areas.

Professor Adelabu, who explained that Ekiti and Osun states inherited some of the lingering boundary problems, expressed the belief that with mutual understanding and the cordial relationship that exist between the government of the two states, the problems shall come to an end during the tenure of Governor Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti and his counterpart in Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola.

According to the deputy governor: “The boundary disputes cover five local government areas on the side of Ekiti, namely: Moba, Ijero, Ekiti West, Efon and Ekiti South West while the tripartite point between Ekiti, Ondo and Osun states in Ogotun/Owena/ Ikeji respectively is another standing issue delaying the demarcation of other sectors along the boundary.

Adelabu appealed to all parties concerned to display understanding throughout the meetings which was at the instance if the NBC in a bid to getting the problems resolved.

He added that no meaningful development could be achieved in an artmosphere where there is provocation, tension rancour and acrimony

12—Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013

Dickson laments activities of crude oil thieves ...to establish marine component of Operation Doo Akpo

BY SAMUEL OYADONGHA

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ENAG OA—BAYELSA State governor, Mr. Seriake Dickson, yesterday, described as frightening, the ongoing environmental despoliation being perpetuated by crude oil thieves in the hinterland of the state.

According to him, crude oil theft was not only a threat to the country’s security but to the state’s revenue and its troubled ecosystem.

Dickson, who spoke on the state-owned radio, Glory FM, monitored in Yenagoa, however, added that the security agencies had been directed to rid the state of all those involved in the illicit business.

He noted with sadness that aside the huge revenue lost to the crude oil thieves, the environment, the only heritage of the people, was also being destroyed with impunity.

Though he lauded the efforts of the Joint Task Force in the Niger Delta, codenamed Op-

eration Pulo Shield, in combating the crude oil theft menace, the governor said that the state government had concluded plans to establish the marine component of Operation Doo Akpo to complement the former in riding the state of oil thieves and pipeline vandals.

He said: “Oil theft is not just a threat to our revenue, it is actually a threat to the security of our country. We, being a coastal state, are victims of what is what is going on.

“We have lost a lot of revenue. Our revenue has drastically dwindled. As a matter of fact, last month, we almost had a zero balance after meeting our current liabilities because the earnings of the state in the last five months have reduced so much.

“We are working with the security agencies who I believe are trying their best. It is clear that they need to sit up and do more, particularly, the JTF that is supposed to be guarding the oil installations.

I have held series of meetings with the oil companies and made it clear to them that they need to sit up and do more.

“I had also made a case for them to have more presence here so that our people can easily connect with them and their facilities. But right now,

they are still more as buccaneers. Our people don’t feel they have a stake in their facilities and so on. That is not right.”

OIL AND GAS SUMMIT: From left: Mr. Okey Wali (SAN), President, Nigerian Bar Association; Dr. Nweke Adolphus and Julia Oku-Jaja, Deputy Director, Moni-Pulo Ltd, at the Port Harcourt International Oil and Gas Summit, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, yesterday. Photo: Nwankpa Chijioke.

Why I closed model primary school in Asaba —Uduaghan ...flags off Delta EduMarshal

BY AUSTIN OGWUDA

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S A B A — D E LTA State governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, yesterday, flagged off the Delta EduMarshal initiative, aimed at discouraging absenteeism of students of school age, just as he explained why he closed down Government Model Primary School located at Government Reserved Area, GRA, Asaba, venue of the flag-off, temporarily.

The governor was unhappy that parents of the students instigated the children and wards to protest against the closure of the school.

Peeved by the development, Governor Uduaghan, said: “This school was specially built for a particular standard, which has not been attained and we have not finished the construction work in the school. We have not finished putting all the facilities in place. All the electronic equipment, security gadgets are not yet in place. In spite of that, somebody opened the school and put children there before I realised it.

“Special teachers will be employed and given special training, the management will be restructured to meet the set standard and the infrastructure will be in place to enable the pupils attain the set standard for the school.”

Inaugurating over 25

Education Special Marshals and 100 Education Marshals charged with the responsibility of ensuring that all schoolage children attend school compulsorily, Uduaghan, said “this programme is a serious business to get our children back to school.”

Again, Tebite floors Mukoro at Appeal Court

BY FESTUS AHON

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GHELLI—THE Court of Appeal sitting in Benin, Edo State, has struck out the appeal by Mr. Eme Mukoro of Democratic Peoples Party, DPP, for lack of jurisdiction, affirming Olorogun Taleb Tebite as the winner of the May 6, 2011 Delta State House of Assembly rerun election in Ughelli South constituency.

Mukoro, who lost the case in December 2011 at the Court of Appeal, Benin, leading to his removal from the state House of Assembly, had approached the Appeal Court to affirm him as winner and candidate of DPP, where he also lost

the case. He later went back to the Federal High Court, Asaba, which had earlier declared him as candidate of DPP, but the court struck out the case for lack of jurisdiction, which prompted him to re-approach the Court of Appeal, Benin that also struck it out for lack of jurisdiction.

Delivering judgment, Justice Sodipo-Lokulo, of the Court of Appeal, Benin, said that the action was not a pre-election matter within the provision of section 87 of the Electoral Act 2010, as amended, adding that “by virtue of section 285 of the 1999 Constitution, the earlier decision of the Court of Appeal is final on this matter.”

Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013—13

Dickson flays NUC’s non-accreditation of courses in N-Delta Varsity

BY SAMUEL OYADONGHA

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ENAG OA—BAYELSA State governor, Mr Seriake Dickson, yesterday, lamented the withdrawal of accreditation of courses at the state- owned Niger Delta University, NDU, Amassoma, by the National Universities Commission, NUC. Though the university had last month put forward 31 courses for accreditation, the universities regulatory body approved only four for full accreditation and withdrew seven courses including Law. Twenty other programmes of the institution were placed on interim official recognition by NUC. Reasons advanced by NUC for the non-accreditation of the courses were inadequate teaching staff, especially Professors, PhD holders and senior lecturers.

Dickson, who spoke, yesterday, on a Radio Bayelsa special interview programme tagged, 60 minutes with the Contriman Governor,” described the denial of accreditation as “a sad development.”

He blamed the management of the institution for the de-accreditation, noting that the university authorities knew that the accreditation panel of

NDDC lights up UNIBEN

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N line with the transformation agenda of President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration, the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, has commissioned 149 units of solar powered street lights at the University of Benin, UNIBEN, Edo State.

Speaking during the commissioning of the light project, NDDC acting Managing Director/CEO, Dr. Christy Atako, said that the Commission was set up as an interventionist agency to facilitate development in the Niger Delta by providing infrastructure and building human capacity in the region.

Atako called on the university authorities and students, whom she described as peace loving, to guard and protect the solar powered street lights jealously because of their importance.

“This project is intended to illuminate the university premises and its environment and would help a lot in its security,” she said.

She called on the university authorities to be sensitive to the needs of students because as leaders of tomorrow, they need a conducive environment to learn.

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NUC visits every two or four years and ought to have prepared towards the last exercise.

“It is a sad development. It is very sad because certain things were not handled properly by the authorities of the

university. The courses had temporary accreditation.

Some even had full accreditation, like Law, for example.

Then we had an accreditation panel (from the NUC). The panel visits every two or four years. So, it wasn’t a sudden

development.

“The university administration knew that at a particular time, the panel would visit.

They ought to have known what to do to prepare the various faculties for the accreditation that the NUC was coming to carry out.”

VISIT: From left: Most Rev. Ignatius Kattey, his wife Beatrice, and Senator Magnus Abe, shortly after the cleric’s release by kidnappers, at his residence in Eleme.

Ineffective leadership bane of Nigeria ’s devt —NIM

BY TONY NYONG

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Y O —I N E F F E C T I V E leadership has been identified as the bane of Nigeria’s development since independence, despite the abundance of natural and human resources.

President, Nigerian Institute of Management (Chartered),

Chief Michael Oluwale-Cole, made the assertion at the opening of the 2013 Annual National Management Conference of the Institute in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

Addressing participants, Oluwale-Cole said: “It is ironic that Nigeria, blessed with abundant natural and human resources, has not

C-River PDP zones 2015 guber slot to northern senatorial district

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HE People’s Democratic Party, PDP, in Cross River State has zoned the 2015 governorship slot in the state to the Northern Senatorial district to ensure equity and political power balance among the three senatorial districts of the state Mr. Gershom Bassey, Chairman of Cross River State Water Board, said in Calabar, after the PDP Fund Raising Dinner for the 2013 local government elections, that the statement by Cross River State Governor, Senator Liyel Imoke that the next senatorial district to occupy the number one position in the state should be the North was acceptable to all party members.

He said: “We have our thinking in the state and that thought is that power should rotate to the North, even though I am not planning to constest.”

He stressed that PDP was one solid family in the state and there were no fears that some members of the party would move to the new PDP. “We are one solid family here and we have no fears that any one from our ranks would want to go a separate dirtection. Even at that, there are strong reconcilliation efforts and our governor is strongly working with others towards achieveing that so no fears whatsoever,” he said.

been able to get it right in the area of leadership. Thus, while other nations which are not as equally blessed, have moved on due to purposeful and committed leadership, Nigeria has continued to stagnate in almost all facets of its national life due to leadership ineptitude, widespread corruption, and other social vices that stall every attempt at effective development.

“The theme of this conference was chosen because the institute came to the painful and sad conclusion that more than ever before in the history of its existence, Nigeria needs an urgent solution to the many leadership and governance challenges besetting it, which are threatening the nation’s corporate existence.

“Instead of sitting by, criticising government and trading endless blames on why the country has come to this pathetic crossroads, the NIM, which believes in supporting government in finding solutions to the problems of governance, is using the opportunity provided by this conference to contribute its quota by proffering viable and workable roadmap to the leadership question through the focus on ways to deliver good governance in Nigeria.”

A-Ibom hails NIMPORT 2013

BY GODWIN ORITSE

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HE Federal Government and the Government of Akwa Ibom State have applauded the just-concluded Nigerian Maritime Ports and Terminals, NIMPORT, expo and conference, describing same as a timely and unique event that would attract investors to the sector.

Governor of AkwaIbom State, Chief Godswill Akpabio, said that NIMPORT was a timely intervention for the Nigerian maritime industry and called for an expansion to cater for every player in the subsector.

Akpabio, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, said that the event was coming up at a time the state was on a journey to developing Nigeria’s first self sustainable industrial city, Ibom Industrial City.

Ijaw leaders laud Uduaghan on devt

BY EMMA AMAIZE

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ARRI—LEADERS of Ijaw communities and groups in Delta State have commended the state governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, for the current development tempo in the state and his special attention to the Ijaw.

The leaders, who converged in Warri, said that the governor had shown, with road and other developmental projects going on simultaneously in different parts of the state that he indeed, wants to finish strong.

They eulogised him for the recent appointment of their son, Alhaji Yusuf Eregbene, as chairman, Delta State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board.

President of Ijaw People’s Development Initiative, IPDI, Mr. Austin Ozobo, who spoke for the communities, said that the Ijaw people had watched with interest the governor ’s love for them.

14—Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013

2015: APGA sets up 10-member peace c’ttee in Abia

BY ANAYO OKOLI

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MUAHIA—THE All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, in Abia State, yesterday, inaugurated a 10-member peace and reconciliation committee to reach out to all aggrieved members in the state.

The party also appealed to all aggrieved members to forget the past and embrace peace and return to the party.

Inaugurating the committee in Umuahia, state chairman of the party, Prince Nnanna Ukegbu, explained that the move became necessary, following the roles some members of the party in the state played during the crisis that rocked APGA a few months ago.

According to him, members of the party in Abia State are happy that APGA emerged stronger from the trouble that nearly rocked it to its foundation.

He expressed happiness that some of the people that were at the centre of the struggle had returned to the mainstream party.

Enugu PDP moves to reconcile aggrieved members

E

BY TONY EDIKE

NUGU—THE Peo ples Democratic Party, PDP, Enugu State chapter, has commenced plans to set up a reconciliation committee to handle issues relating to last Saturday’s local government election primaries of the party.

Chairman of the party in the state, Mr. Vita Abba, disclosed this, yesterday, while announcing the results of the party’s primary elections in which 17 candidates emerged.

The committee, he said, would be saddled with the responsibility of reaching out to some party faithful who might be aggrieved over the chairmanship primary elections, with a view to carrying them along ahead of the November 2 elections.

Abba further disclosed that the committee would also reconcile members of the party at the ward and local government levels to ensure unity among the members.

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Act fast over Nasarawa violence, APC tells FG zSays ‘don’t let it become another trouble spot in Nigeria’ L

AGOS—THE All Progressives Congress, APC, has urged the federal government to act fast to prevent Nasarawa from becoming another trouble spot in the country, saying the mindless violence being perpetrated by the Ombatse cult/ ethnic militia in the state was fast spiralling out of control.

In a statement issued in Lagos, yesterday, by its Interim National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, the party said failure to act fast will see the state, which has the longest stretch of border with the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, plunged into a crisis that will have a far-reaching effect beyond the state.

It said the lessons of the Boko Haram crisis which, through the same attitude now being exhibited towards the Nasarawa crisis, was allowed to fester and then degenerate into a slow-motion warfare, should guide the federal government to quickly bring the Nasarawa crisis under control.

APC said the killing of over 60 security operatives in May by those believed to be members of the cult/ethnic militia provided perhaps the best opportunity to deal a decisive blow to the cult. ‘’In an inexplicable decision, the federal government resorted to a policy of appeasement against those who killed security opera-

tives who were carrying out their lawful duties. These mindless cultists were supposedly forgiven without any of them being brought to justice, thus emboldening them to continue to perpetrate their dastardly acts. ‘’The killings of security agents last May was not the first time the cult had attacked individuals and security operatives. Past attacks

include the one between May 30 and June 1, 2012, when the cult killed 15 people in an attack on Assakio community; the one on November 21, 2012 when the cult attacked Agyaragu community, killing nine people and the November 17, 2012 attack, when the cult mounted illegal road blocks and attacked motorists and commuters, injuring many including

soldiers and other security agents. ‘’Unfortunately, the kid gloves with which the cultists have been treated by the federal government, even after the killing of the security operatives, has meant more killings and destruction of property, the latest of which occurred last week, with deadly consequences,’’ the party said.

VISIT: From left: Mr. Ike Ibeku, Secretary, Ikoyi Club, Mr. Gbenga Adefaye, Editor-in Chief/GM Publications, Vanguard Newspapers, Mr. Yinka Folami, Ikoyi Club, Mrs . Alero Edu, Mr. Yomi Orenuga, Vice Chairman, Ikoyi Club, Mrs. Carolyn Anetoh and Mr. Olatunji Subair, Entertainment Officer, all of Ikoyi Club, during a visit by members of Ikoyi Club 1938 to Vanguard Media Limited, Apapa, Lagos. Photo: Diran Oshe.

Anambra 2013: Youths warn against replacing Nwoye as PDP candidate

BY ENYIM ENYIM

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NITSHA—YOUTHS in Anambra North senatorial zone on the platform of Odimma Anambra North Youths Initiative, yesterday, advised the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, against any attempt to replace Mr. Tony Nwoye as the governorship candidate in the November 16 governorship election in the state.

Addressing journalists in Oyi local government, spokesman for the group, Obiora Okafor, said the youths had vowed to cause mayhem in the state should the PDP national leadership replace Nwoye who, according to them, won the governorship primary election.

Okafor said it was the turn of Anambra North to produce the next governor because the zone had been marginalized since the creation of the state.

While appealing to the National Working Committee of PDP not to rescind its decision, the youths advised the party to embraceat internal democracy.

He called on well meaning citizens of the state, including traditional rulers, opinion leaders, human rights activists, especially from Anambra North, to rise and prevail on the PDP not to subvert

t h e will of the masses.

“All we are saying is for PDP to respect the wishes of the people.

They have conducted a primary

which is adjudged to be transparent and Chief Tony Nwoye emerged as a winner.

“So any plan to replace him is akin to thwarting the people’s

wish. We all know that he was certified clean by the screening committee of P.D.P and he contested and won. So he should be allowed to contest the election.”

Ubah tasks Anambra indigenes on quality dangerous future. education first rate infrastructure in our But Ifeanyi Ubah in cam-

A

WKA—LABOUR Party candidate in the forthcoming Anambra governorship elections, Ifeanyi Ubah, has advised Anambra State citizens at home and abroad to wake up and embrace his action plan to transform education in the state.

Ubah said looking at the quality of men the state had produced in various strategic positions in the world; it was worrisome that the people allowed governments in the past for filthy lucre, destroy the vestiges of innovative education.

He said the people should take advantage of his achievement in the corporate world to benefit from his desire to reposition education in the state, by voting him as governor.

The principal of a secondary school told our correspondent that primary and secondary education had collapsed in the state. He said it portends a

paign manifesto presented recently said: “We shall develop an education policy that prepares our people for selfreliance and selfsustainability.

“We will invest heavily in the education sector and provide

schools. We will also enact measures to ensure that our education system achieves the societal and personal objectives that are designed to attain”, adding “also we will put in place the tools for measuring their effectiveness.”

700 APGA members decamp to LP in Anambra Ubah, at the Holy Trinity,

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BY ENYIM ENYIM

NITSHA—ABOUT 700 ward and local government chairmen of the All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, in Anambra State have defected to the Labour Party over alleged high handedness of the leadership of the party.

The APGA members, led by Mr Emeka Obi, who pitched their political tent with LP on the occasion of the flag off campaign of the party’s governorship candidate, Dr Ifeanyi

Onitsha, last Thursday, said they took the decision because the APGA leadership had not been carrying them along in the scheme of things.

A member of the National Working Committee of APGA, Mr Chris Ndigwe, who also defected alongside the ward and local government chairmen of the party, promised to mobilize supporters for Ubah and ensure that he delivered Awka North and South local government areas.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013—15

FG unveils new Yellow Card

BY VICTORIA OJEME

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B U J A — THE Federal Government, yesterday, announced the introduction of new yellow card with six security features.

Minister of Health, Professor Onyebuchi Chukwu, who disclosed this at the unveiling of the new yellow card in Abuja, said it would be effective next month.

According to him, the old International Certificate of Vaccination and Prophylaxis currently in use will cease to be recognized by international destinations.

Chukwu said: “Actually, the new card has been available for some months now, and a lot of Nigerians have availed themselves the opportunity of having the new yellow card. We thought it was important for the Minister to also do a formal flag off as the part of the sensitization and creating awareness.

“As Minister, when I go on the streets and ask people, quite a number of Nigerians don’t seem to appreciate that we have a new yellow card.

“Yet, we have set a target of October, that in October, that is just next month, the old card will no longer be valid.

“We don’t want Nigerians to get embarrassed, that is why we are trying to ensure Nigerians are aware and they get the new yellow card.

“We have always paid for the yellow card, it used to be N500.00. It is not the first time. Nigeria has always paid for the yellow card.

“However, the new one followed the issue that arose sometimes last year about Nigerians travelling to South Africa, we looked into the issue."

Crisis won't affect party's fortune, says Ndoma-Egba zAdvises PDP leaders to shun politics of exclusion

BY JOHNBOSCO AGBAKWURU

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BUJA—SENATE leader, Chief Victor Ndoma-Egba, SAN, has debunked the insinuations that the ongoing crisis in the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, would affect the chances of the party winning elections in 2015.

Senator Ndoma-Egba, in an exclusive interview with Vanguard in Abuja, also advised the leadership of the party to imbibe the spirit of inclusiveness and not exclusion in its dealings with members, even as he held the view that concessions had to be made to settle the ongoing rift within the party.

Fielding questions on the best way to resolve the crisis in the party, he said: “Well, politics is about inclusiveness and not about exclusion, politics is like the Biblical good Shepherd that will leave 99 sheep and go after one lost sheep.

“You must recover every member of your fold that is leaving or threatening to leave, that is what politics is all about. And I am sure that those currently in the middle of the negotiations appreciate the need to recover everybody and retain everybody under the big and strong umbrella.

“Well let me say this, that the problem in the party does not

affect the structures of the party. We still have our penetration right down to every ward in this country, to every local government, to every state.

“The fact that we have a crisis does not automatically translate into ward structures for the opposition. The oppo-

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structure and has not changed the penetration of the opposition, so I don’t see how the opposition will benefit from this crisis that has not effectively altered the fact that we exist in every ward of this country, even in the states that the PDP is not in power."

BRIEFING: Chairman, House Committee on Media and Publicity of the House of Representatives, Mr. Mohammed Zakare (left) and his Deputy, Victor Ogene, at the briefing on developments in National Assembly politics in Abuja. Photo: Gbemiga Olamikan.

ECOWAS Parliament lauds FG on war against terrorism

BY JOHNBOSCO AGBAKWURU & JOSEPH ERUNKE

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BUJA—SPEAKER, Parlia ment of Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, has commended the Federal Government on

the successful war against terrorism in Nigeria and West Africa as a whole.

Senator Ekweremadu, who is also Nigeria’s Deputy Senate President, gave the commendation at the opening of the 2013 Second Ordinary Session of ECOWAS Parliament in Abuja, yesterday.

FG, World Bank intensify fight against terrorism, money laundering

BY SONI DANIEL, REGIONAL EDITOR, NORTH BUJA—WORRIED by the growing incidence of terrorism and money laundering in Nigeria, the World Bank and the Nigerian government have developed a template to tackle the twin evil, which has been prevalent in the country lately.

The action plan, which is being developed under the Financial Action Task Force, FATF, is aimed at stemming the tide of the twin virus afflicting the nation and halting the proliferation

sition still has to establish itself in every nook and cranny of this country, so, it is like we lawyers say, depending on the weakness of your opponent's case instead of the strength of your own case.

“The fact that we have a crisis has not changed our

of weapons of mass destruction.

It will be recalled that the World Bank, which has been reviewing Nigeria’s progress on anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing measures, is yet to give the country a clean bill of health on the two core areas of risk assessment.

The global bank’s assessment of Nigeria, which started since 2009, led to the establishment of Nigeria’s Presidential Committee on Financial Action Task Force, headed by former Head of Service of the Federation, Mr. Stephen

Oronsaye.

At the opening of a three-day national risk assessment workshop in Abuja, yesterday, the Presidential Committee Chairman, Oronsaye, said Nigeria was eager to meet all the benchmarks set by the FATF and place the country on a sound footing.

Oronsaye explained that strategic deficiencies in Nigeria’s AML/CFT were not addressed during the 2007 mutual evaluation of the country, making it imperative for the presidential committee to engage with the FATF to address the issues.

He said: “The success of the subsisting state of emergency in some parts of the country has left no one in doubt that Nigeria does not have even the minutest space or any iota of tolerance for terrorism and insurgence.

“It has demonstrated that Nigeria has the might and firepower to sack the merchants of terror as well as the profound compassion to forgive those who truly repent and turn away from willful destruction of lives and property.”

He said the country ’s progress in the war against terrorism was particularly important to the sub-region, given its highly strategic position as a key player in the integration project and a pivot of political, social, and economic development in the sub-region.

Ekweremadu called on the remnants of the insurgents to make haste to denounce terrorism and extremism in order to facilitate the efforts

of the Federal Government through the Presidential Committee on Dialogue and Peaceful Resolution of Conflicts in Northern Nigeria.

He urged those responsible for the insurgence to lay down their arms to be able to qualify for the magnanimous amnesty that might accrue from the work of the committee, noting that only peace and stability could guarantee true development in Nigeria and entire sub-region.

He pledged the support of ECOWAS Parliament to every legitimate and well-conceived effort to promote peace and stability in the West Africa.

Ekweremadu congratulated the government and people of Mali as well as ECOWAS for the resounding democratic progress registered in Mali through the peaceful, free, fair, and credible election in the West African nation.

He noted that it was a huge leap for democracy, peace, stability, security, and development for Mali, in particular, and the sub-region in general.

16 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013

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Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013—17

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IP, hip, hip; Hooray!

Lagos is now going to be a megacity. Under the able leadership of Governor Babatunde Fashola, the apostle of good governance, Lagos is undergoing a major makeover.

The Atlantic Ocean will be banished, to be replaced by Eko Atlantic; a shimmering new 3.5mile island built literally on the water behind a “great wall of Lagos.” Greenery has suddenly appeared in Lagos, displacing the concrete jungle. There are now parks with manicured lawns.

There are now tree-lined roads.

Pot-holes are now being tarred.

Sidewalks are now provided for pedestrians. *Eko o ni baje In the middle of this transformation, a new immigration department has been opened in Lagos. “Illegal aliens” are being expelled and are shipped back to their homelands in the dead of night. New visitors may have to obtain visas to come here.

All this makes it imperative to determine who exactly is the Lagosian? Who is entitled to enjoy the new amenities that Governor Fashola and his team of dedicated public-servants are bringing to Lagos? Accordingly, a battle royal has emerged for the rightful ownership of Lagos.

Some are insisting Lagos is no man’s land.

Others are discovering Lagos as their fatherland. But there is no question that the government has already determined the precise identity of the true Lagosian.

As far as the Lagos State Government is concerned, the true Lagosian is not the Yoruba man or the Igbo man. Neither is he the Hausa man or the Fulani man. The true Lagosian is the rich man. The poor have

WARNING: Poor people are not wanted in Lagos megacity readily persuaded by Fashola’s virtues might not be unconnected with the fact that I am not a poor man. The poor themselves may have a very different point of view. They are probably likely to insist that the best governor in the history of Lagos is Lateef Kayode Jakande; alias “Baba Kekere.”

I am not a poor man by Nigerian standards. Therefore, I do not presume to speak for the poor. But then, increasingly, I am beginning to wonder who exactly speaks for them in Lagos. One thing is certain, Fashola speaks primarily for the rich; and this is not good enough. In the Lagos of today, the poor have no voice.

Fashola’s laudable policies are too one-sided. They are tailormade for the rich: and are grossly disadvantageous to the poor. *Relocating the poor: I don’t have to be poor to know that the poor are increasingly unwelcome in Lagos. The genius of Fashola is to relocate them to the outskirts of the city. If they are non-

Poor people can have no place in Lagos, if Lagos is to become the megacity of Governor Fashola’s lofty dreams!

,

been served quit notice. They are no longer wanted in Lagos.

Fashola’s resounding slogan is “Eko o ni baje,” which means Lagos will not go to the dogs.

The poor are considered the dogs of Lagos. In that troublesome capacity, they can have no place in Lagos, if Lagos is to become the megacity of Governor Fashola’s lofty dreams! *Action Governor: For some strange reason, Lagos has tended to have better Governors than most states of the federation. But if you were to ask me who is the best among all the Governors of Lagos, I would answer you without hesitation.

In my opinion, it is Governor Babatunde Fashola. Fashola is a man with a vision. He is a man with a purpose. He is a man clearly able to translate ideas into weapons. He has transformed and is transforming Lagos right before our very eyes.

But I have a nagging suspicion that the reason why I am so

,

indigenes, they are relocated back to their homesteads. The systematic ridding of Lagos of the poor is a longstanding process.

The poor were shipped out of Maroko. It has been replaced

by Oniru where apartments go for an average of 2.5 million naira a year.

Slums in Mushin, Oluwole and Makoko have been demolished.

The residents were evicted from their homes, with no talk of rehabilitation. Markets in Tejuoso, Yaba and Oshodi have been demolished and rebuilt.

The new stalls are beyond the pocket of the earlier poor occupants. Everywhere in Lagos, the poor are becoming persona non grata.

In places like Ojota, Makoko, and Ijora-Badia East, the poor residents have been evicted from their homes. In some cases, they were given only 72 hours notice to leave. In Makoko/Iwaya, the government’s quit notice described them “environmental

nuisances” that “undermined the megacity status” of Lagos.

It stated that their m e n i a l existence was detrimental to t h e government’s determination to beautify the L a g o s waterfront. *Eko Atlantic: As the poor are •Governor being squeezed out, so is more leg-room being created for the rich. The Eko Atlantic project is the epitome of this. It involves dredging 140 million tons of sand from the floor of the Atlantic Ocean to subdue the sea and create nine million square kilometers of prime real estate, protected by an eight metre-high wall, vaunted to last 1000 years.

When completed, the project will boast residential areas, offices, shops, and leisure facilities for 250,000 people, with another 150,000 commuting to work. To have a foothold in this brave new world, you will need a cool 300,000 naira for just one square metre of land.

However, what Lagos desperately needs is not a “Manhattan island” that will cater primarily for the rich.

Massive low cost housing What Lagos needs is massive low-cost housing to accommodate millions of slum-dwellers. The state government itself acknowledges that Lagos has a housing shortage in excess of five million. By its own estimates, it needs an annual growth of at least 200,000 houses to keep up with the population growth. In spite of this, it touts a six billiondollar white-elephant project that ignores this urgent need of the poor masses in favour of one that caters to the rich few. *Ban of Okadas: I hate okadas. They are a menace on the streets. Even the sidewalks are not safe from them. Okada riders are a law unto themselves. They obey no traffic

Raji Fashola

rules. They imperil their clients by taking dangerous risks. The mortuaries and hospitals are filled with those who have lost life and limb because of their recklessness. But I will be the first to admit that one of the reasons I am able to hate okadas with so much passion is because I have a car. I don’t have to take okadas and have never ever taken them.

Governor Fashola also has a car. So it does not surprise me that, like me, he is also fed up with the menace of okadas in Lagos. Therefore, recently an edict was passed banning them in most areas of Lagos. The government refused to provide alternative means of transportation for those who don’t have cars before banning the okadas. This oversight translates into contempt for the poor. I don’t have to be poor to recognise that it has been disastrous.

Since the banning of the okadas, I have repented of my earlier hatred of okadas. No matter that I wind up my tinted windows; the better to enjoy the air-conditioning in my car, I cannot remain oblivious to the mass of humanity in Lagos now constrained to walk for miles or stand for hours at bus-stops, waiting in readiness for the battle ahead when it will become necessary to fight for the few spaces available in the few buses when they finally, finally, arrive.

Let’s face it; with the okadas gone, the poor in Lagos don’t get home until midnight and then they have to set out for work by 5 a.m.; and that is if they have a

job. I asked a lady in my neighbourhood supermarket how much she makes as a cashier.

She told me N20,000 a month.

I don’t know how anybody can survive in Fashola’s Lagos with such a salary, especially since over 50 per cent of that goes for transportation alone. *Paying tolls: The new departure in Fashola’s Lagos is that people now have to pay for driving on tarred roads. If you are one of the poor residents of Ajah, Badore, Elegushi, Ajiran, Sangotedo, Abijo, Ibeju, and other communities in Eti-osa, Epe and Ibeju-Lekki local government areas, you will now have to pay tolls for leaving your house to head for the Lagos mainland and pay again for going back home.

On the Lekki expressway, no less than three tolls are envisaged for just a 50- kilometre stretch of road.

The Lagos State Government is only interested in exploiting the poor in this area, and there are literally millions living there.

There is little or no government infrastructure there. There is no general hospital, and no lowincome housing scheme. No sporting or recreational facility.

No public transportation system.

No public water works: just the payment of tolls. The original idea was to develop a coastal road as an alternative route to the tolled road, but this has not been done. *No petty-trading: So how can the poor make ends meet in Lagos? With okada gone, and excluding outright crime, one option is petty-trading Lagosstyle.

Street trading This entails turning the streets into one big supermarket, and training for the 2016 Olympics by running after cars in order to sell something as menial as groundnuts. But even here, you are likely to be confronted by the long arm of the law. Streettrading is frowned at in Lagos.

The “Kick Against Indiscipline” brigade will seize your goods if they get hold of you.

The Arab Spring outburst in Tunisia started because the goods of a poor street-trader, Mohamed Bouaziz, were confiscated by the police. That act brought the man to the end of his rope. He bought a jerry-can of petrol and set himself on fire. Those sympathetic to his plight took to the streets, and the upshot of this was the overthrow of the government.

Lagos, Nigeria may not be Sidi Bouzid, Tunisia. Nevertheless, Governor Fashola has a legacy to protect. Rather than this new policy of banishing the poor to Siberia, Fashola should sit down and fashion comprehensive policies that take into consideration their acute suffering in Lagos. If he does not, his disregard of the poor will soon overshadow his remarkable achievements in Lagos State.

18 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013 IF Blessing Okagbare, the 25-year-old Nigerian lady who is putting the country’s name on the global map, were a footballer, Nigerians would have appreciated her achievements more profoundly.

President Goodluck Jonathan rewarded Blessing with N3m and her first coach, Mr Daniel Esebinimo, with N3.5m. The President also promised them national honours and asked the Ministries of Sports and Finance to assist her preparations for the 2016 Olympics.

At the 2013 World Championships in Moscow, Okagbare won silver in the long jump. Her jump of 6.99m was two centimetres - less than inch - short of the gold medal. In the 100m final, she placed sixth with 11.04s. Okagbare lost the silver in 200m to Ivorien Murielle Ahoure in a photo finish. She is an Olympic and World medallist in the long jump, and the African record holder in the 100m. She had an incredible 2013 season, making her presence felt in the long jump, 100m and 200m.

Blessing has come a long way. At 19, she won a bronze medal in the women’s long jump at the 2008 Summer Olympics in

A Nation’s Blessing Beijing. She completed 100 m and long jump double at the National Collegiate Athletic Association Championships for University of Texas at El Paso. She had an undefeated collegiate streak that year.

However the 2012 Olympics were not as successful as the 2008 Olympics for her. She set a new personal best of 10.92s in the 100m semi-final but placed eighth in the final.

On July 27, 2013, at the London Anniversary Games, Okagbare set a new African record of 10.79s in 100m, beating reigning 100m Olympic gold medallist Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, and eclipsing the record of 10.90s her compatriot Glory Alozie set in 1998.

Some highlights of her career are: · 100m 10.79s London 27 Jul 2013,

African record · 200m 22.31s Walnut, CA 20 April 2013 · 300m 37.04s Pasadena, CA 23 Mar 2013 · Long jump 7m Monaco 19 Jul 2013 · Triple jump 14.13m Lagos, 19 May 2007 · 1 x Olympic Games bronze medallist · 1 x World Championships silver medallist · 1 x World Championships bronze medallist · 1 x All-Africa Games gold medallist · 2 x All-Africa Games silver medallist · 4 x African Championships gold medallist · 1 x African Championships silver medallist · 3 x Olympic Games finalist · 5 x World Championships finalist · 6 x Diamond League meeting winner A few things are worth mentioning.

Resources Delta State Government provides make her participation in these competitions possible. The recognition for Mr. Esebinimo, her youth coach, would encourage coaches of younger athletes.

Blessing needs a lot of support to win medals at the 2016 Olympics, and remain a blessing to the nation, she needs the assistance now, two years to the Games.

OPINION

BY OSAZE SUNNY

E

XPECTEDLY, Nigerians, espe cially those whose cherished pas time is to pick holes in the activities of the President Goodluck Jonathanled administration, even where none exist, unsuccessfully tried to give unsavory interpretations to the federal cabinet reshuffle which resulted in the exit of nine serving ministers. As usual, even before the Federal Executive Council meeting was over, the news, courtesy of Nigeria’s bourgeoning social media, had spread like raging wildfire. It no doubt elicited loads of reactions, both for and against.

While some of the reactions were as usual intended to give ethnic and religious connotations to the development, some went a bit further by branding it with different political undertones.

There is one unique attribute that has become this administration’s selling point. It is a regime that attaches unprecedented importance to the feelings of Nigerians. It has earned for itself the enviable sobriquet of a listening and understanding government. Never in the history of Nigeria have we had a government that puts the common man into consideration in both policy formulation and implementation.

To many, especially those who have indepth understanding of how government works the world over, Wednesday’s cabiC M Y K

Cabinet reshuffle: Why the furore? net shake-up is geared towards positioning the government of the day for optimum performance. Without mincing words, Mr President’s action was a development long overdue. We can all bear testimony to the obvious fact that many had consistently drummed support for the reshuffling of the current cabinet. In line with his meticulous approach to issues to avoid a backlash, Mr President rather chose to be careful in this regard.

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NDOUBTEDLY, we cannot deny the incontestable fact that it is the prerogative of Mr President to constitute a cabinet of his choice. It is equally incumbent on him to deliver on his numerous campaign promises to the electorate. So, with this in mind, he is in the best position to select eminently qualified Nigerians from different parts of the country to function in different organs under his supervision.

Instead of viewing Mr President’s action from an objective point of view, some have preferred to make political gain out of it by being mischievous. Some have equally concluded that the move was simply targeted at hitting back at members of the newly created PDP faction. These persons have since forgotten that cabinet reshuffle is a permanent feature of democracy the world over. How do we expect

the best in terms of governance from the current administration when we make unnecessary haste to misinterpret every of her actions?

Checks have indeed revealed a number of reasons why these ministers were dropped. Do we still remember the performance contract pact signed by the ministers? We may recall that the President asked the ministers to sign a performance bond. Some of the affected ministers were reported not to have lived up to expectations in the assessment.

Some of them have performed satisfactorily to the admiration of the stakeholders even though they face some few challenges of governance. Nigeria cannot afford to be on the slow lane at a time other less-endowed and smaller nations are rolling out ambitious plans to put their respective nations on the path of development. If we want the best for our country, then we must learn to support genuine efforts aimed at fast-tracking development.

As I conclude this piece, I wish to cite an example to put this issue in clear perspective. Some have linked Usman Shamsudeen’s exit from the cabinet to Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso’s involvement with the new PDP and four other governors in the North. These persons have equally forgotten that Shamsudeen

was not nominated by Governor Kwankwaso in the first place and they have never been in good terms. Also Erelu Obada, the former Defence Minister of State who was speculated to be sacked because of connection to Olagunsoye Oyinlola, the Secretary of the factional nPDP. The two are said not to be in the same camp. On the other side, Former Minister of Science and Technology and that of Environment were close allies to President Jonathan and his vice, Namadi Sambo, respectively but they were also dropped.

These are clear examples to buttress the fact that Mr President’s action was not a political witch-hunt as being alleged.

It is not about the interest of individuals, rather, it’s about Nigeria and Nigerians. It is simply about how best to provide qualitative leadership to Nigerians by injecting new blood with new ideas into the system.

Realising the Nigeria of our collective dreams and aspirations requires some sacrifices on our parts. Governance is a continuous process. So, that some ministers were dropped doesn’t imply that the system would grind to a complete halt.

Government is very much interested in meeting the yearnings and aspirations of Nigerians. Let us support our elected and appointed representatives for them to function better in their respective assignents. *Mr Sunny, a political analyst, wrote from Lagos

Vanguard,TUESDAY,SEPTEMBER17,2013—19

I

F we go by Nigerian political precedents, there is considerable reason to doubt that former president Olusegun Obasanjo will go against the re-election of President Goodluck Jonathan if he chooses to contest in 2015. But about two weeks ago Obasanjo had a private one-on-one discussion with Alhaji Rasheed Ladoja in Ibadan, and about two weeks after, a split occurred in the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, at a convention that was not attended

by Obasanjo, who is now sponsporing Ladoja as a new secretary for PDP. These two events suggest some linkages.

If this information is true, it suggests some pre-meditated actions on the part of Obasanjo and strengthens the claims in some quarters that he started the fires that currently engulfs the PDP and should therefore be responsible for putting it out. But what does Obasanjo really want and how does the current disarray in the party characterize the political ideology that may be ascribed to him?

To begin to answer this question, it must first be pointed out that the travails currently buffeting the political ship of the PDP, under the leadership of President Jonathan is not new. Obasanjo should actually be the last person to start or stoke such a fire because just before the 2003 re-election of Obasanjo, many swore that he would never be allowed to run for

As president, Obasanjo never brooked any dissent, or heeded any advice from any quarters; he relegated some of the principal founders of the party to the sidelines of PDP politics

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now been calibrated with higher intensity, leading to a split in the party, purportedly led by Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, former Vice President, a veteran of several failed presidential bids. But what may come as a shock to many is the role of Obasanjo in the whole affair.

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t some point, he is seen dissociating himself from the activities of the present government, and aligning with perceived rivals of the President for the presidential nomination of the party, and in these instances making scurrilous remarks on the performance of the party in government. Whereas it is well known that if he has an advice to convey to government, he could easily do so through a phone call or through private discussions.

At other points in time, he is either forecasting an imminent ‘’Arab spring’’ in Nigeria due to high levels of unemployment arising from lack of job opportunities that

Itsekiris and Ijaws in Delta State: No alternative to peaceful co-existence

BY FRANCIS MAKU-EYITUOYOR THE recent aggression on some Itsekiri communities in our Warri North Local Government Area by some Ijaw militants in which a number of Itsekiris were killed and their houses razed down, to my mind, was an unfortunate development and it was uncalled for. Although those who perpetrated the dastardly act gave their reason as political marginalization in the LGA, it was however, a good thing that Ijaw leaders were unanimous in joining their Itsekiri counterparts to condemn the attack in its entirety.

I am glad that the ugly incident was not allowed to snowball into another festering hostility. Indeed, another Ijaw-Itsekiri crisis is the worst thing that can happen in Warri North LGA at this time or even at any other time in the future. The reason is simple: In whatever way one looks at it, crisis will do neither the Ijaws nor Itsekiris any good.

There is no alternative to peaceful coexistence.

Itsekiris and Ijaws in Warri North LGA have a long history of living peacefully together that spans centuries. Our ancestors had genuine love for each other. They married each other. They ate and drank together. They patronised each other for goods and services. They celebrated cultural festivals together. They bear akpujas (local appellations) together. A number of akpujas Itsekiris bear are Ijaw dialect. Ditto for Ijaws. They spoke each other’s language.

Despite the fact that sometimes they also had their disagreement, the brotherhood of the Ijaws and Itsekiris in the days of yore and their peaceful coexistence were almost total.

This was what they bequeathed to us. The present generation of Ijaws and Itsekiris C M Y K

maintained this sweet togetherness until very recent times when some people with selfish and parochial interests stealthily infiltrated our ranks to sow the seed of discord and hate in our midst. The enemies of our peaceful coexistence mischievously twisted issues and manipulated us to become suspicious of one another and to hate one another. The disaffection led to an unfortunate war between the two ethnic communities otherwise referred to as the Warri crisis.

But as it were, Ijaw and Itsekiri leaders put on their thinking caps again and realised that the crisis was not doing either side any good. So the crisis stopped. Since then, a lot has been done to mend fences and to reinvent those values both tribes mutually cherish and share together. Love and friendship replaced hate. Our socio-cultural and eco-political interactions were restored. A number of grounds have been covered in this regard.

This is the reason I said in my opening lines that the aggression on Itsekiri communities was rather unfortunate and it was uncalled for.

The way I view it, the unanimous condemnation of the attack by both Ijaw and Itsekiri leaders sent a clear message. The message should be taken seriously by every one of us. We must not allow a few persons with selfish interest to manipulate and drag us into another fratricidal crisis. We must remain resolute on this. We can no longer afford to traffic in hate, misinformation and killing of one another. It is a poison we must purge from our politics. We must never be tired to tear down any wall the enemies of peace want to erect between us.

Ijaws and Itsekiris in Warri North LGA must live together as one people with a collective destiny. Our homesteads are side by side together in the creeks. We are both victims of oil exploitation and exploration

he could not provide while he was in office, or he is seen trying to play the role of conciliator and arbitrator of crises within the PDP? What is responsible for this disposition of the former president and what exactly does he want?

It is difficult to understand what former president Obasanjo really wants from President Jonathan. It has even been suggested in some quarters that Anyim’s appointment may have been partly to appease Obasanjo. There are some who even assert that the South West appears not to have much representation in the federal cabinet because of the type of nominations made by Obasanjo, with the exception of the Agriculture Minister from Ogun State who has performed exceedingly well.

In his own tenure as president during his first term, Obasanjo never brooked any dissent, nor heeded any advice from any quarters; he relegated some of the principal founders of the party and their political structures to the sidelines of PDP politics. When he became president, he immediately unseated the party executive and brought in Germade and Nwodo as chairman and secretary of the party respectively. Today he is prodding President Jonathan to shred his own trusted structure and install one that will do Obasanjo’s bidding. While it appears as if the G5 is representing the North, some prominent politicians in the North who understand what Obasanjo can do if the party structures are under his control are uncomfortably and suspicious of his motivations as he prods the G5 further into splitting the PDP. For instance, Ango Abdullahi a

,

BY ENEOCHE OCHEME

re-election.

To support resistance to Obasanjo’s re-election bid in 2003, the then Senate president, Dr Pius Anyim, now Secretary to the Federal Government, SGF, who was brought in as a Senate president by Obasanjo, to replace the late Dr Chuba Okadigbo, stated that the PDP zoning scheme did not call for a second term for the President, this was a reenforcement of an earlier report credited to Chief Sonny Okogwu, where the latter contended that there was a deal after Obasanjo’s nomination in Jos in 1999, in which he was supposed to be a ‘one term’ president. Compare this with the recent claims by Governor Aliyu of Niger State.

Moreover, the robust resistance of the so-called G5 governors to President Jonathan today, can also be compared to the antagonism of some former governors like Achike Udenwa of Imo State (see Guardian newspaper August 20, 2002). In the same way, Governor Bafarawa, then governor of Sokoto State insisted that speaking on behalf of the Arewa Consultative Forum, ACF, the North would not back Obasanjo for re-election. Similarly, then Governor Orji Kalu swore that Obasanjo will never be allowed to go for re-election at the expense of a candidate from the South East.

All these occurred before the presidential nomination of the PDP in 2003.

So, the resistance to President Jonathan is almost conventional within the PDP, except that it has

,

2015: What does Obasanjo really want?

We can no longer afford to traffic in hate and killing of one another; it is a poison we must purge from our politics; we must never be tired to tear down any wall the enemies of peace want to erect between us

,

by multi-national oil conglomerates. Over the decades, we both suffer neglect by the Federal Government in spite of the huge money we contribute to the nation’s coffers.

We are subjected to the same environmental despoliation and hazards. What else can I say? So it should be clear to us that we matter to one another and we need to join our potentials together to create a better future for ourselves and our children. So, we should look past what divide us in our time, bind up our wounds, and erase the empathy deficit that exists in our hearts.

T

here is an emerging trend in the world we must come to terms with. Ijaws in Bayelsa State did not need to take up arms to massacre Hausas and Fulanis in Northern Nigeria for His Excellency, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan to become the President of Nigeria. The minority Blacks in the United States of America did not need to take up arms to kill and maim their White compatriots for erstwhile Senator Barack Obama to become the nation’s president.

Itsekiris did not need to take up arms against the Urhobos and Ibos in Delta State for His Excellency, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan to become the governor of Delta State.

Let me further view the excuse of political marginalisation adduced by the Ijaw

well-known critic of President Jonathan, his bitterness being merely over the claim that the North should exclusively produce a presidential candidate, has this to say about former President Obasanjo: “We thought erroneously that his government’s performance between 1976 and 1979 was his own. But as it turned out to be, we could see that it wasn’t his……how would Nigerians rank Obasanjo from 1999 to when he left office as president? Every record shows that there has never been as much corruption in this country as during that period…”. . The above interview from AriseNigeria blog was conducted in 2011, just before the April election and shows that on Obasanjo’s character, President Jonathan may only just be finding out that he and Ango Abdullahi may just have something they agree on; that Obasanjo cannot be trusted politically.

Can this explain why very few people of note in the South West ever agree with Obasanjo? Can it also explain his unforgiving discord with PDP followers in his home state, which led to the political defeat of the party in the last general election in most local elections? Nonetheless, those who are currently being used by Obasanjo to stoke the embers of discord in the PDP may not know this yet. But, it is still early and there is still enough time for rapprochement or they may find themselves in political limbo after Obasanjo gets what he wants, like others who have been previously used for this type of agendum.

*Mr Eneoche, a development analyst, wrote from Abuja

militants for their crime from the prism of discrimination against women. We live in a world characterised by male chauvinism and unmitigated dominance.

A global arena where there is an outrageous socio-cultural and political discrimination against women in spite of affirmative action. Yet, women did not take up arms against their men folks to enable them emerge as heads of government in different nations. Even if it is argued that women are incapable of taking up arms against men, they can at least still ruthlessly eliminate the men by conniving to secretly poison the food the men are given to eat. When it comes to food, men with all their vaunted macho are vulnerable and are at the mercy of women. But the women did not resort to such diabolical perfidy or matrimonial treason.

In the past, women such as Golda Meir of Israel, Indira Gandhi of India and Margeret Thatcher of England, to name but three, were prime ministers of their respective countries. In contemporary times, we have Angela Merkel as Chancellor of Germany, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf as president of Liberia, Cristinia Fernandez de Kirchner as president of Argentina, Julia Gillard as prime minister of Australia and Dilma Rousseff as president of Brazil, among others, who broke through the highly fortified wall of gender discrimination to become numero uno citizens of their respective nations where men hold sway.

Yes, I am not saying there are no genuine contentious issues in Warri North LGA. No society in the world is free of issues of disagreement. The local government is for both Itsekiris and Ijaws. I believe our leaders on both sides will be able to sit down together and jaw-jaw, not in an atmosphere of rancor or hate or bitterness but of peace, love, mutual respect and understanding, to find amicable answers to the problems confronting us.

Maku-Eyituoyor is a Special Project Director, SPD, Governor’s Office, Asaba, Delta State.

20—Vanguard , TUESDAY TUESDAY,, SEPTEMBER 17 , 2013

•Iyiola Akande receiving one of the returnees and her baby

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FROM TUNISIA WITH BITTER TALES:

Deportees recount ordeal

BY BOSE ADELALA

T

HEY left the shores of Nigeria in search of greener pastures with very high expectations but returned home empty handed.

That was the story of 90 Nigerians who were repatriated from Tunisia. The deportees who arrived the Murtala Mohammed International Airport Lagos on Tuesday, wore mournful looks as they re-lived the sad tales of their sojourn in the North African country.

The repatriation was facilitated by

the International Organisation for Migration, IOM, with the support of the Tunisian government.

One of the returnees who identified herself as Miss Success Smart, 15, said she left Nigeria about two years ago when her hope of becoming an apprentice hair dresser was dashed. The teenager explained that she embarked on the tedious journey to Tunisia through the Libyan route when her parents refused to sign an agreement with the salon

For Miss Blessing Ogbabolo, uplift the living conditions of 17, the story is slightly the citizenry.

Vanguard Metro learnt that different. She claimed that her father died when she was only officials of the National three years. Her elder brother Agency for Protection and was the one who took her to Trafficking in Persons, Tunisia. Blessing said she had NAPTIP, have taken over the on several occasions pleaded case of the teenagers. They with her brother to allow her would be reoriented and later return to Nigeria, but all these rehabilitated. The returnees pleas fell on deaf ears. “I was were received and screened fed up with the difficult by different government conditions out there and when agencies like the Nigerian the opportunity of returning to Immigration Service, the Nigeria free of charge came, I Police, NAPTIP and other jumped at the offer,” she said. stakeholders, ostensibly to Asked about her brother, ascertain their nationalities.

Transport allowances were Blessing said she lost contact with him when she later given to them to facilitate made up her mind to their journeys to their return home. A visibly respective states. They were frustrated Blessing Emmanuel Oduoba vowed noted that it would take never to nurse the idea of only divine travelling abroad again; he intervention for her to passionately appealed to put the sad Nigerian youths to avoid any experiences b e h i n d temptation to travel out of her.’’I pray Nigeria that God will help me to forge ahead after my taken out of the airport by the frustrating experience National Emergency overseas,’’ she submitted. Management Agency, NEMA. Another deportee who A breakdown of the 90 gave his names as returnees shows that two of Emmanuel Oduoba, them are infants, aged five vowed never to nurse the and 14 months. A further idea of travelling abroad breakdown shows that 12 are again. He passionately teenagers, 13 of them are appealed to Nigerian youths young ladies while the to avoid any temptation to remaining 61 are young men. travel out of Nigeria because Edo State has the highest all the sweet stories of hitting number of 77 returnees, while the jackpot are bags of lies. He Delta State had eight. The urged Nigerian leaders to be remaining six hail from Imo, most focused and to put in Lagos, Kano and Plateau place measures that would states.

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•One of the returnees

operator where she had enrolled as an apprentice. ‘’I received favour from somebody who offered to take me to Tunisia. We were there until recently when things became very difficult for her and she had to return to Nigeria,’’ Success said

Lagos - Ibadan Expressway: Unending wait for repairs

By LAMIDI BAMIDELE

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HE flag-off of the reconstruction of the Lagos-Ibadan expressway came as a big sigh of relief to most motorists plying the ever-busy road. The contract awarded to Julius Berger and Royal Construction Company RCC in July 2013 is expected to take 48 months.

Prior to the award of the contracts, the road recorded several accidents some of which led to loss of lives and destruction properties. The frequency of these tragic incidents as reported in the media prompted public outcries. This underlined the need for palliative measures in term of temporary repairs on some severely failed sections of the road which caused motorists to spend several hours on the road.

During the flag-off by Mr President, the Federal Controller of Works, Lagos State, Oluwatoyin Obikoya, promised that emergency repairs would be carried out on bad portions of the road.

According to him: “Julius Berger will carry out emergency repair of those

sections so that motorists would enjoy smooth ride and not spend a long time on that road again” .

Two months after this contract award signing event, amidst pomp and pageantry, the situation on this road is becoming worse. A journey from Redeemed Church Camp along the expressway now takes between two and three hours due to so many bad options and recklessly parked articulated heavyduty vehicles.

Adjoining bridge Among the bad portions which demand urgent attention is the adjoining bridge between Berger Busstop and Kara bus-stop towards the Berger axis of Lagos-Ibadan expressway. This portion is fast deteriorating as the adjoining bridge now has big cracks on it leaving a big gap between it and the road. This situation is responsible for the daily long

queue of vehicles which take their turns to pass at a snail speed.

A commercial driver who simply gave his name as Isah, lamented on the number of hours spent each time he plies the road. “How can one be on a road for five hours on a journey of two and a half hours from Ilesha ( in Osun State) to Lagos? We spent two and a half hours to Ogere and the remaining two and a half hours just from Ogere to Lagos,” he said. Ogere is a town close to Redeemed Church camp.

Another motorist who resides in Arepo, a town along the expressway and works in a bank in Victoria Island, cannot understand why the Federal Roads Maintainance Agency, FERMA, finds it difficult to carry out simple repairs on the road.

Mr Adeoye thus posed the question: “Why do we live as if there is no government in this country? A road of this importance should attract urgent attention from a responsible government. How long do we have to continue like this?”

The incessant traffic jam on this road occasioned by the poor state of the road has made many travellers vulnerable to armed robbery attacks, leading to loss of cash, other personal belongings and also lives.

Residents of many towns and villages along the expressway such as Arepo, Wawa, Magboro, Ibafo, Mowe and many others who see this expressway as a blessing are beginning to have a change of mind. Mrs Abolaji Hamed, an insurance marketer living at Ibafo has given up her job as she could not cope with the work in addition to domestic responsibilities.

“If I could leave my job because of the hazards of traffic jam and armed robbery associated with it, would I ask my husband too to leave? The agency concerned should please show some level of concern and urgently do some minor repairs on the bad portions of the road pending the main reconstruction,” she appealed.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013 — 21

Advertising spend dips by N11bn in 2012

By PRINCEWILL EKWUJURU

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igeria advertising industry spend on Above-the-Line Advertising activities dropped by 10.6 per cent to N91.846 billion in 2012 as against N102.755 billion in 2011.

The decrease was due to reduced media investment of 43.9 per cent on outdoor advertising and 41.7 per cent on press while media investment on TV and radio grew by 7.2 per cent and 20.1 per cent respectively.

Mediafacts, an annual publication of MediaReach OMD, a Nigerian media independent agency, disclosed this in its 2012 edition of the publication.

According to the publication, of the N91.846 billion, television had N49.399, radio N15.782, outdoor N17.692 while N8.974 was spent on the press.

It noted that in 2012, Lagos region accounted for 35.8 per cent or N32.913 billion, North 33.1 per cent or N30.418 billion, the West N15.024 billion or 16.4 per cent while the Eastern part of Nigeria accounted for the remaining 14.7 per cent or N13.491 billion.

From the total ATL a d v e r t i s i n g , telecommunications product category spent the highest amount of N15.562 billion, representing a decline from the N20.118 billion spent in 2011, followed by entertainment, leisure & tourism with N4.988 while

lager beer was third in the product category with N4.784 billion.

In the telecommunication category, MTN topped the list with N5.09 billion followed by Etisalat that spent N4.40 billion during the year under review. Airtel and Globacom spent N2.99

billion and N2.95 billion respectively. All the four brands topped the list of the top 20 brands in terms of ad spend last year.

Another highlight of Mediafacts 2012 is that of television advertising which amounted to N49.399 billion as against the N46.076

billion recorded in 2011.

Radio recorded N15.782 billion as against N13.142 billion spent in 2011, Press N8.974 billion lesser than the N15.395 spent in 2011while Outdoor expenditure was N17.692 billion also lesser than N28.142 billion spent in 2011.

The report also noted that, Nigeria’s economic market size of about $247 billion represents 41 per cent of the entire West Africa GDP thereby placing the country among the topmost African economies and a destination of choice for investment in Africa.

115.70

-0.55

Shops and distributive trade employers call for conducive business environment

2,574.00

+31.00

BY VICTOR AHIUMA-YOUNG

17.09

-0.09

112.07

-0.56

107.90

-0.70

CURRENCY BUYING CENTRAL DOLLAR POUNDS EURO FRANC YEN CFA WAUA RENMINBI RIYA KRONA SDR

From Left: General Manager, Operation, Bank of Industry (BOI), Mr Joseph Babatunde; Managing Director, Ms Evelyn Oputu; Ace Musician, Asa And Executive Director Business Development, BOI, Mr Waheed Olagunju, during a visit by Asa to the bank in Lagos.

SELLING

154.76 245.4184 206.0939

155.26 246.2113 206.7597

155.76 247.0042 207.4256

166.6057 1.5552

167.1439 1.5602

167.6822 1.5653

0.2934

0.3034

0.3134

234.4369 25.2908 41.2638 27.6283 235.0804

235.1943 25.373 41.3971 27.7176 235.8399

235.9517 25.4551 41.5305 27.8068 236.5994

CBN Exchange rate as at 16/09/2013

E

MPLOYERS in the nation’s Shop and Distributive sector of the economy, have called on government at all levels especially the Federal Government to create a sustainable and enabling environment for businesses to thrive in order to create jobs, wealth and contribute to national development.

Under the umbrella of Shop and Distributive Trade Employers Association of Nigeria, S&DTEAN, at its Annual General Meeting, AGM, in Lagos, lamented that operative environment in the country had been very harsh.

Addressing members, President of the Association, Mr. Victor Eburajolo, said “The Year 2012 started on the note of Government’s attempt to end the fuel subsidy. This was greeted with protests and the loss of six productive days by business to the ensued strike action

leading to a very slow recovery from its effects by businesses in the first quarter of the year.

International Price of crude oil was extremely favourable, thus Government’s wisdom in creating the Sovereign Wealth Account to provide for the raining day. Beyond the non-attainment of the targeted power generation, the modest gain recorded in the electricity megawatt generated as at December, 2012 was eroded to 3,413 megawatt in April,2013 due to what the Power Ministry ascribed to ‘general system collapse’. The exchange rate relatively stabilised, while the inflation rate defied all efforts at driving it below the two digit target.”

“Furthermore, Insecurity turned back the hand of the clock of businesses. Crime and violence;

double-digit inflation, unemployment and instability were ravaging the nation. There is, therefore, an urgent need by Government to address these issues. We note government’s efforts on economic transformation; however, 2013 is also shaping out as another challenging year with several issues (especially, over-regulation and multiple regulatory agencies) and government policies affecting businesses.”

He however noted that “despite our optimism based on the philosophy in the private sector never to give up but to continue to invent and re-invent adaptation modes for continued survival, we still wish to call on Government to create a sustainable and enabling environment for businesses to thrive, provide jobs, create wealth and contribute to national development.”

22— Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013

Feeble effort to address unclaimed dividends

By BABAJIDE KOMOLAFE

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NOTHER major revela tion in the various complaints of investors is that of attitude of regulators and market operators to the problem of unclaimed dividends. Severally, we have received complaints from investors, who have invested for years and they have never received dividend. Many of them want to collect their dividend and they had made attempts, but they were deliberately frustrated.

A classical example is the complaint from Mr. Udenta Christopher, who said: “I have been in a running battle with Datamax Registrars Ltd of 7 Anthony Village Road, Anthony, Shomolu Lagos, since last July. Datamax has refused to remit my dividend declared by GT Bank for the

•SEC DG, Arunma Oteh year ended 31/12/2012, payable 25/04/2013. Through an edividend payment advice sent to me, Datamax claimed to have paid the money into my GTB account, but checks at two branches of GTB in Onitsha

showed that it was never credited to my account. I called Datamax on the 19th of July and an official, who refused to disclose his name directed me to send them my statement of account for the period 25/04/ 2013 - 30/04 /2013. I sent the statement through GTB on 22nd July. After one month of silence, I called Datamax on 21st August, but they claimed they had not received my correspondence. I had to resend it the same day through GTB, but Datamax has kept mute about it up till now. Please assist me”.

This compliant reflects why the value of unclaimed dividend has continued to increase. The market introduced electronic dividend, which makes it possible for dividends to be paid directly into shareholders’ account, but the effectiveness is seriously un-

Top 10 performing stocks

By NKIRUKA NNOROM

from N4.69 it started the week at to N7.52 per share to lead the pack of other gainers. Part of the propelling force in the stock is news that the company is now debt free after settling huge sums owed some banks and the prospect of churning out encouraging financials following the effort of the current Board members to rejuvenate and put the company back to full operation.

Starting the year at N0.81, the stock price has risen by 479.01 percent when compared with the present market price.

Vono Products, which has

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ost of them just creat ed forms for e-dividend application on their websites, nothing more. Hence from time to time, we receive inquiries from investors on how to receive dividend directly in their bank accounts.

In addition to lack of awareness campaign, the procedure is also discouraging. You go to the registrar, complete a form, but you must get a Bank-

S/African firm acquires 49% stake in UAC subsidiary

By NKIRUKA NNOROM

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N the top ten performing stocks last week were Jos International Breweries Plc, Vono Products Plc, Portland Paints & Products Nigeria Plc, IHS Plc, Courteville Business Solution Plc and Ikeja Hotels Plc. Others are Learn Africa Plc, Premier Breweries Plc, NPF Microfinance Bank Plc and Abbey Building Society Plc. Jos Int Breweries, which has been investors’ toast isince the past one month, gained 60.34 percent or N2.83

dermined by the operators, especially the registrars and the companies. First, there is no concerted effort to publicise edividend. The regulators are supposed to do a massive enlightenment campaign akin to the one conducted to promote the cashless policy. Similarly, little or no effort is being made by the companies and registrars to promote e-dividend among shareholders.

emerged the second top gainer for three consecutive weeks, again appreciated by 39.57 percent or N0.55 to close at N1.94 from N1.39 per share. It had risen to N2.88 before sliding to the present market price.

In 2010, Vitafoam Plc acquired 21.44 percent equity stake in the company through purchase of 64.32 million ordinary shares out of the 300 million total outstanding shares of Vono Nigeria. The acquisition was a long-term strategic investment meant to decide the future of the ailing Vono Nigeria.

At present, Vono Products is the least priced stock in the household durable sub-sector of the Nigerian Stock Exchange, NSE. It manufactures and distributes foam products, complete beds, Beddings and Specialised Furniture.

Portland Paints & Products

Nig. Plc advanced by 20.84 percent or N0.94 to close at N5.45 from N4.51 per share.

UAC of Nigeria Plc recently acquired 51 percent stake in the company, a move that was meant to boost Portland’s competitive edge in the decorative paints industry, as well as allow it to tap into Nigeria’s real estate and building materials sectors using UACN as leverage.

The 2012 full year financial result for the period ended December, 2012 showed that the revenue rose by 10.87 percent to N2.87billion from N2.58 billion in 2011, while

profit for the year dipped to negative N231.36 million from positive region of N173.85 million in 2011.

IHS advanced by 18.21 percent or N0.51 from N2.80 at the beginning of the week to N3.31; Courteville went up by 12.50 percent or N0.08 from N0.64 to N0.82; Ikeja Hotel rose by 10.81 percent or N0.08 from N0.74 to N0.82; Learn Africa appreciated by 9.09 percent or N0.15 to close at N1.80 from N1.65 per share.

ers Confirmation letter as evidence that you are the owner of the account. The first challenge is that you can only use current account for e-dividend and this automatically exclude millions of shareholders who don’t have current account. Edividend is akin to funds transfer, and if funds transfer is allowed into savings account, why exclude them from e-dividend.

The second challenge relates to those that have shareholding in companies with different registrars. And most investors do. Each registrar requires that you bring a different Bankers Confirmation specifically addressed to it. This means that you have to pay the bank for as many Bankers Confirmation letters as you need to submit for e-dividend. Coupled with this, is the fact that it can take more than two days to obtain this confirmation in some banks. The reality is that the whole process may take up to one week. And that is why even investors, who are knowledgeable about it have not applied for it, and that is why unclaimed dividends has continued to increase.

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AC of Nigeria Plc (UACN), said it has entered into a strategic partnership with a South African company, Famous Brands, the leading quick service and casual dining restaurant operator in Africa, to boost the quick food service sector in Nigeria.

Under the partnership, Famous Brands will acquire a 49 percent stake in UAC Restaurants Limited (UACR), hitherto a wholly-owned company of UAC. Famous Brands Ltd is an investment holding company listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange. The company is an integrated food and beverage company whose primary activities include the franchising of trademarks, either company owned or licensed, to Quick Service Restaurant, QSR, franchisees and the manufacture and supply of products to these franchisees and the retail trade. Some of Famous Brands’ well known operations already in Nigeria include Debonairs Pizza and Steers.

Speaking on the partnership, Mr Larry Ettah, Group Managing Director/CEO, UAC, said: “We are delighted to partner with Famous Brands in this venture. This is a transformative transaction which ensures UACR has the necessary strategic partner to unlock the con-

siderable value potential in the QSR landscape which Mr Bigg’s defined 25 years ago and in which it still maintains a leadership position. UACR will be availed of Famous Brands’ tested and highly successful brand stewardship to enhance and reinforce the Mr Bigg’s brand market power. This deal further reinforces UACN’s commitment to ensure we collaborate and leverage international partnerships to accelerate our strategic growth and progress.”

On his part, Mr Kevin Hedderwick, Famous Brands’ Chief Executive, said: “Historically, one of the key challenges of expanding into the rest of Africa has been to source suitable local partners. This acquisition surmounts that obstacle and enables us to not only acquire a substantial stake in an existing leading home-grown brand in Nigeria with opportunities to unlock value in that market, but also to export the format to other markets. We foresee our operations in the rest of Africa becoming increasingly significant to the Group over time.”

“This joint venture delivers compelling benefits for both parties. UACR will be vending in a formidable brand (Mr Bigg’s), local expertise as well as a nationwide distribution network and Lagos-based manufacturing infrastructure.”

Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013 — 23

INVESTORS SPEAK

By HANNAH ISIBOR, MAGBEGOR ZINO & PAUL METU Pastor Williams: S a result of the global meltdown which happened in the year 2008, Nigerians are becoming weary of investments; they are afraid because they lost terribly and as such, do not want to venture into investments again. But we need to create awareness especially among the youths and potential investors and the best way to create this awareness is by empowering the shareholders association groups, and encouraging people to set up shareholders association groups. The students in the higher institutions should be encouraged, that’s where SEC’s role comes in to encourage young people, especially students to set up shareholders association if they don’t have any in their schools, by educating and supporting them.

They should let them know that with their little upkeep, a broker can buy as low as 10 units for a customer. It is not necessary for you to become a billionaire first before you can buy shares, this type of awareness is very good for our students in the higher institutions.

The last time I was opportuned to meet Ms Oteh, I encouraged her that she should at least visit some of our Institutions to meet with these youths. Like most expensive stocks, if you register through a broker, a broker has a grade because he is trading too; he has a grade to buy as low as 10 units for a customer and at the end of the year, you’ll get little dividend and as time progresses, bonus may even be given. So the layman on the street should invest through the broker.

We should also let these youths know that investment is as cheap as them entering an eatery to buy snacks. if you look at the price of a bottle of malt today in any of the eateries around is very cheap, you can use almost the same amount of a bottle of that malt drink to buy a partic-

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How to increase local participation in capital market

•Pastor Williams Adebayo ular stock and become a shareholder of that company. It’s a joint effort. The SEC, brokers should try and the existing shareholders associations should realise that our youths are our future.

Pastor Olagoke Samson: he Securities and Exchange Commission has been doing well, but they still have to organise more seminars for shareholders at the grass root level. Shareholders these days are very careful and they are well educated. So with all these and the help of SEC through seminars to enlighten the grassroot investors, more people will begin to participate in the market, especialy local investors. They should just organise seminars. There are quite a lot of people, particularly those of us who are in shareholders association, who are very articulate. We are working towards that organising such enlightenment cam-

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•Pastor Olagoke Samson paigns.

Mr. Chinyere Ohaja joined the list of shareholders years back when I started working in the bank. Shareholding is very profitable, except for the fact that sometimes we experience cases of share depreciation, but they are great advantages when shares appreciate and when bonuses are being given. So I implore the younger generations to start investing, it all depends on the company you invest your money with; when you invest with big companies ,you have an advantage of making profit.

Elder Ade Oduntun We can advice people about shareholding. It’s very important, people should be able to buy shares from good companies. Share buying has a lot of benefits for the shareholders. It’s like a farmer who plants crops and is expect-

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•Mr. Chinyere Ohaja ing harvest, even before the harvest time, the mere fact that the crops are growing well will bring happiness to the farmer. This scenario can be likened to a shareholder.

One thing I’ll tell you is this, you know change is very difficult in the sense that people do not want to change from one form to the other; they don’t want to adjust to new things. I think with persuasion, people will change and will come back to the market.

Mr. Okazie Boniface SEC takes either three percent or there about from every transaction, which is supposed to be used to educate Nigerian investors, but unfortunately, we are not seeing that. If SEC organises seminar, they always ask you to investors to pay and how many investors can pay N20,000,or N10,000 to attend seminars.

SEC is meant to organise seminars to help educate investors but they don’t.

COMPLAINTS & INVESTIGATIONS I need to sell my shares urgently have shares with FirstBank, Daar Communication and FCMB since 2008 and I need to sell these shares to start a good business. But I dont know how to go about that and I no longer my stock broker again. Please advise me on what to do. (Prince Oghenero Onorefe, Warri)

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Investors Forum Have you verified the certificates? If no, you have to take the certificates to your stockbroker for verification. It might take three to five months but without verification, you cant sell the shares. If you have verified the certificates and your stockbroker has created CSCS accounts for you, and he is claiming that he has not sold it, apply to CSCS to verify if the account has indeed been created and if the shares are still in the account.

Excessive ATM charges by FirstBank Sir, I have a Savings Account with FirstBank, and through me, my wife, colleagues, dependants, and close friends also opened accounts in the same bank. Whenever I use the bank’s ATM to transfer funds from my account to theirs, I am charged N100, even though both accounts are savings and

in FirstBank. Now I wonder why this criminal act should be allowed by customers and regulatory authorities when we are being forced to transact via ATMs. I am thinking of closing all the accounts. What do you advice? Please kindly use your good office to bring this injustice to public notice. Thank you.

Investors Forum To the best of our knowledge ,the bank is not supposed to charge for such intra-bank transactions. Go to the website of the bank to get the phone number of its contact center to make a formal complaint. Otherwise you can send a complain to the bank’s headquarters. If you are not satisfied with their explanation, you may reconsider your relationship with the bank.

I need information on my stockbrokers & Nigeria Brewries In July 2004, I purchased 800 units of UBN at N38.80 per unit which was assigned CSCS no.C669655EF and Account no. 45606317. This was purchased through BSD Securities Ltd which has since gone into oblivion as I could no longer trace them. Also in April 2005, I purchased another 400 units of UBN and 4,500 units of the then Oceanic Bank International with assigned CSCS

no.C813975EF and Account no.28995773. This was purchased through Consolidated Investment Ltd with whom I have lost contact with as well. Kindly assist me locate the current addresses of these stock-brokers (BSD and CIL) so that I can start benefiting from my investment in the above companies.

Even recently too, for about two years now, nothing has been forthcoming from Nigerian Breweries Plc. What is happening? (Erusiafe John) Investors Forum We suspect foul play, especially if you have not received dividend from the companies since the stockbroker bought the shares on your behalf, We advice that you first go to CSCS and ascertain the validity of the CSCSC accounts created for you. It will confirm if shares were indeed purchased as claimed by the brokers. Meanwhile, investigations show that BSD Securities merged with Intercontinental Securities (located at Plot 1686 Oladele Olashore Street Off Sanusi Fafunwa Street Victoria Island).

The contact of Consolidated Investment Limited is: Bishop Oluwole Street, Victoria Island, Lagos: Tel: 234-01-614463; 615382; 2623329). The registrar of Nigeria Breweries is First Registrars and

the contact is Plot 2 Abebe Village Road, Iganmu or all 08033018295, 08191410456 I am yet to get ETI shares for Oceanic Bank Please I bought N500,000 worth of Oceanic shares in 2008. ETI bought Oceanic over and till now, it has not reflected in my CSCS account. What am I expected to do since my stockbroker feels indifferent about it. (Ayotunde) Investors Forum Please contact the registrar of ETI. The registrar is ESL Registrars Ltd, and its contact is 16/A Rauf Taylor Close, Off Idego Street, Victoria Island, Lagos.

You may also call an official of the bank on 08023877699

COMPLAINTS AND INVESTIGATIONS Do you have any challenge with your investment in the stock market or with any company (stockbroker, Registrar Company etc), write to vanguardinvestorsforum @gmail.com OR send text to 07043855187. We will INVESTIGATE AND REPLY

24 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013

Oil earnings dip by N36bn in Q2

By MICHAEL EBOH

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HE contribution of the oil and gas sector to the Nigerian economy declined significantly in the second quarter of 2013, as revenue accruable to the Federal Government from the sector dipped by N35.7 billion.

The Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN’s Economic Report for the Second Quarter of 2013, revealed that oil revenue dropped by 1.93 per cent from N1.849 trillion to N1.814 trillion at the end of the second quarter.

A breakdown of the gross oil revenue for the period showed: •crude oil/gas sales depreciated by N35.3 billion or 8.04 per cent to N403.8 billion from N439.1 billion at the beginning of the quarter.

•Petroleum Profit Tax, PPT/ Royalties depreciated by N57.1 billion or 5.54 per cent to end the quarter at N973.1 billion.

•Decline in crude oil production and export by N307 billion -production dropped by 8.87 million or N150 billion, while export dipped by 9.32 million about N157 billion.

The CBN blamed the development on incessant pipeline vandalism, resulting from crude oil theft in the Niger Delta.

Cordros Capital, in its Nigerian Macroeconomic Outlook, July to December 2013, warned that a further decline in the price of oil in the international market would make Nigeria’s fiscal position unsustainable.

Analysts worry Cordros analysts — Paul Maliki, Adaeze Usoh and Muyiwa Bamgbade, Head, Strategy and Research, Senior Analyst and Analyst respectively, said they expect Nigeria’s growth to average 6.8 per cent in the second half of 2013.

This revises their Gross Domestic Product, GDP, growth outlook from the earlier 7–7.5 per cent to 6.5-7 per cent for 2013.

“The key drivers of growth will be the implementation of critical structural reforms essentially within the oil and gas and power sector. Governments must equally demonstrate commitment to fiscal responsibility,” they stated.

Also speaking, analysts at Asset & Resource Management Company Limited, said: “Amidst continuous crude oil theft, we expect crude oil

PORT HARCOURT REFINERY: Nigeria’s biggest refinery, Port Harcourt Refining Company, soon to be overtaken by Dangote Refinery. production to range between 2 – 2.2 million barrels per day for rest of 2013.

“Though we see distinct risks of more production outages in the second half of the year, we believe the net effect on overall production will be minimal as others are lifted simultaneously.

“Based on average crude oil prices of $105 per barrel in second half 2013, we estimate crude oil sales to N1.3 trillion, with royalties and Petroleum Profit Tax tracking ahead at around N1.8 trillion.

“Nonetheless, we expect lower quarter-on-quarter average oil prices of $105 per barrel versus $115 per barrel in first quarter 2013, to limit the impact of the recovery on crude oil sales.

“We estimate that the second quarter 2013 crude sales to come in around N600 billion, about 40 per cent less than budget estimate.

“We also believe that the foregoing will also impact PPT and royalties, which should see theseitems, come in lower than

the actual figures reported in first quarter 2013, but ahead of budget estimates.”

Oil, gas production The CBN report put the country’s crude oil production, including condensates and natural gas liquids, at 1.93 million barrels per day (mbd) or 175.63 million barrels compared with 2.05 mbd or 184.5 million barrels in Q1. This represents a decline in production of 0.12 mbd or 5.9 per cent.

Crude oil export was estimated at 1.48 mbd or 134.68 million barrels in the review period, compared with 1.60 mbd or 144.0 in the preceding quarter, thus representing a decline of 7.5 per cent.

The allocation of crude oil for domestic consumption was put at 0.45 mbd or 40.95 million barrels during the period under review.

Continuing, the CBN said: “At an estimated average of US$105.24 per barrel, the price of Nigeria’s reference crude, the Bonny Light (37º API), fell by 8.8 per cent, from the level in the preceding quarter. The average prices of other competing crudes, namely the U.K Brent and the Forcados also declined to US$103.14 and US$106.46 per barrel, respectively, from US$113.68 and US$116.89 per barrel in the preceding quarter.The West Texas Intermediate (WTI) at US$93.97 per barrel recorded a slight increase of 3.2 per cent.

“At 3,521.0 MW/h, estimated average electricity generation increased by 0.9 per cent, compared with the level attained in the preceding quarter. The development was attributable largely to the improvement in hydro power generation as a result of increase in water levels.

“At 3,012.0 MW/h, estimated average electricity consumption increased by 0.5 per cent, compared with the level attained in the preceding quarter. The development was attributed to the increased power supply, owing to the improvement in electricity generation.”

Taking on ‘too much’ for Dangote’s refinery

By SEBASTINE OBASI

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ARIED reactions greet the $9-billion refinery, petrochemical and fertilizer mega project embarked upon

by Africa’s richest man, Mr. Aliko Dangote, being proposed at the Olokola Free Trade Zone, OK FTZ. Concerns for the project have been centred mostly on the viability of such a mega project, seeing as the downstream sub-sector is still regulated, and as such recouping investment may not be in the short term.

Furthermore, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, with all its federal might cannot sustain operations and retain profitability in the nation’s four refineries with combined capacity of 445,000 barrels per day.

Besides, the attraction in OK FTZ has waned since oil majors, Chevron and Shell pulled out of the OK Liquefied Natural Gas, LNG, which was the biggest push for the zone.

However, while a few think the project might turn out to be a hard sell in view of the issues noted above, others argued that Dangoteis too much of an astute a business man to go into a white elephant project.

A good venture The Executive Secretary, Major Oil Marketers Association of Nigeria, MOMAN, Mr. Femi Olawore, noted that Dangote must have done his homework very well before embarking on such a gigantic project. Thus, the issue of feasibility of the project should not arise.

“Dangote as a businessman and businessmen are not

father Christmas. They are out to make profit. As far as I am concerned, he must have known the viability before he embarked on the project, otherwise, he wouldn’t venture into it,” he said.

Olawore also added that the project would impact positively on Nigeria’s economy, as many Nigerians would be employed both during the construction of the project and when it becomes operational.

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he Chairman, Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria, IPMAN, Western Zone, Mr. Olumide Ogunmade, said the project is a welcome development, and would save capital flight from petroleum products importation.

“It is a welcome. It is going

to give the country options instead of only importation. It will generate employment and save Nigeria a lot of foreign exchange. It is long overdue; it is going to work,” he said.

As regards the viability of the project, Ogunmade argued that Ondo State, where the OK FTZ is located is an oil producing state and as such, has gas deposits, which makes the citing of the project there an added advantage.

According to him, “Ondo is an oil-producing state and there is gas. That was why he cited the refinery there. But most importantly, the project will crash the price of petrol in the country. This is because the current pricing is based on importation. He is not going to pay demurrage, no freight cost, no landing fee. We will no longer be dependent on fuel importation.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013—25

BRIEF FG tasks EMS on economic viability

Expectations rise as FG concludes sale of electricity assets

By CHRIS OCHAYI

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Egbin Power Plant: Nigeria’s biggest power plant, Egbin Power Plc, now owned by Korean firm, KEPCO Energy Resources.

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NTIL last week, analysts were sceptical about the success privatisation of the nation’s 15 electricity Generation Companies, GENCOs, and Electricity Distribution Companies, DISCOs. The scepticisms arose because prior attempts by past governments to unbundle and sell off assets of the defunct Power Holding Company of Nigeria, PHCN, had failed.

But ABC predicts a bright future as the President Goodluck Jonathan-led administration has reached an irreversible point in the privatisation of the firms, as under private ownership, Nigeria’s power situation is about to change.

Why government held on For about 53 years of independence, the Federal Government was the only investor that regulated, generated, distributed and marketed electricity in the country. This is because until now, government was the only entity that had the financial capacity to invest in the capital intensive sector. Also, there is the conception that electricity was assumed to be directly tied to national security and should not be left in the hands of private investors.

Furthermore, inconsistent policies by past administrations made it unattractive for local and foreign investors to invest in the sector, even when it became obvious that government had failed.

Accordingly, from generation to transmission, and from distribution to marketing, there were glitches, which were compounded with systems collapse. To the effect that generation hovered largely between 1,000 megawatts, MW and about 2,000MW for over 150 million Nigerians.

It was also difficult to transmit and distribute the limited supply of electricity to consumers in different parts of the country because of insufficient infrastructure and other challenges. These resulted in frequent blackouts and instabilities that impacted negatively on consumers and the economy at large.

At the advent of the President Jonathan’s administration, power generation was a little over 2,000MW, while many parts of the country groaned under chronic darkness.

Time for a change: Determined to change the situation, the Federal Government established the Presidential Action Committee on Power, consisting of ministers and heads of agencies that have important roles to develop policy and grant instant approvals for critical decisions.

The government also established the Pres-

idential Task Force on Power, which draws its membership from a number of agencies.

These are the Federal Ministry of Power; the Bureau of Public Enterprises, BPE; and the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, NERC. Others include the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC; the Bureau of Public Procurement, BPP; the Accountant General of the Federation; and the PHCN to drive the reform.

The government thereafter, produced and publicly launched a Roadmap for the reform of the sector, in demonstration of its willingness to change the course of history, and deliver on power.

The momentum of implementing the Roadmap heightened with the appointment of

•NEDC/ KEPCO - Ikeja $131m •Aura Energy Ltd - Jos $82m •Sahelian Power SPV Ltd - Kano at $137m •4Power Consortium - Port Harcourt $124m, and, •Integrated Energy Distribution and Marketing - Yola $59m.

For the GENCOs are: •Amperion - Geregu Plant $132m •Mainstream - Kainji Plant $50.76m with commencement fee of $237,870,000 •North-South - Shiroro Plant $23.60m with commencement fee of $111m •Transcorp/Woodwork - Ughelli Plant $300m, and, •CMEC/Eurafric - Sapele Plant $201m.

No going back: Despite the initial fears over the ability of the preferred bidders to complete their payments, which was The government also established the heightened with their Presidential Task Force on Power, which demand for extension a few days to the August draws its membership from a number 21 deadline, government remained resolute of agencies to move ahead.

Federal GovernProf. Chinedu Nebo, as Minister of Power, ment’s insistence to collect the balance of as shortly there was the signing of contract 75 per cent cost on the due date forced bidagreements with the preferred bidders for ders to comply. By the close of work on Authe PHCN companies who had paid the gust 21, 13 of the consortia were able to initial 25% of their bid costs. beat the deadline.

Subsequently, government embarked on The Minister of Power, Nebo had anroad shows to selected locations with high nounced that Government recorded subconcentration of potential investors includ- stantial compliance in payments for the sale ing London, New York, South Africa, and of the GENCOs and DISCOs under a gloDubai, for the sale of completed NIPP pow- bally acclaimed power privatisation proer projects. These policies, structures and gramme. bold steps generated more interests in the He had said: “By the close of transaction privatisation process by both indigenous and by 5pm on Wednesday, all the bidders had foreign investors. paid up, except for the Enugu DISCO, while The new power managers: The indige- the preferred bidder for Sapele Power Stanous investors, who had no tion had made substantial part-payment. prior experience in power, had to enter into Thereafter, efforts were made by the relejoint ventures with a number of foreign com- vant government agencies, including the panies to provide the requisite technical NCP, Ministry of Power, and BPE to get the backups to run the unbundled companies. remaining two bidders to complete their With the formal announcement by the Pres- payments.Besides, there were also the outidency that all the preferred bidders met standing issues in the sector, including the their bids obligations, below are the new completion of severance benefits to electricity managers of the 15 GENCOs and DISCOs workers; increased metering of consumers; approved by the National Council on Priva- and the testing of the market operators’ settisation, NCP: tlement systems and processes.

•Kann Consortium - Abuja DISCO $164m Also in view are the constitution of a dis•Vigeo Power Consortium - Benin $129m pute resolution panel to settle grievances; •West Power & Gas - Eko at $135m and declaration of the Transition Electricity •Interstate Electrics Limited - Enugu $126m Market, TEM. •Integrated Energy - Ibadan $169m

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BUJA: The Federal Government has explained that it established the Electricity Management Services Limited, EMS, to take over the responsibilities of some non-core professional and subsidiary services of the defunct PHCN and its successor companies.

The Minister of Power, Prof.

Chinedu Nebo, said this last week during the inauguration of EMS team in Abuja. He noted that the EMS is a professional and technical agency to close up gaps, which might have been created in the wake of the reforms carried out in the power sector.

The minister said the EMS would also to provide all needed ancillary and support services to the Nigerian Electricity supply Industry Limited, NESI. According to him, “The post privatisation challenges of a rapidly evolving private sector-led power industry cannot be over emphasized, hence the establishment of EMS, as a player to provide sector-wide services.

“The importance of establishing EMS is therefore informed by the need to have a professional and technical agency of government at this crucial stage of power sector reform to close up technical gaps which might have been created.

“The EMS is therefore to take over the responsibilities of some non-core professional and subsidiary services of the defunct PHCN and its successor companies.”

Nebo further added, “These services include engineering laboratory, meter test stations, central stores system, testing and certification of major electrical power equipment.

Other activities will include providing the platform for standardisation in the industry, archiving the power sector data and information management.

“What this means is that, your mandated functions is to respond to the need for sustenance and improvement of power supply and service delivery. At the same time, you must ensure quality and standardisation of materials, equipment and machines used for electricity generation, transmission and distribution networks in Nigeria.”

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26—Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013

‘About 20% of our oil production is stolen’ The Managing Director, Midwestern Oil and Gas Company, Mr. Adams Okoene, recently intimated journalist on some developments within the company, and plans for the future as captured by Vanguard.

Excerpt:

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OULD you please tell us about the advent of Midwestern Oil and Gas? Midwestern oil and gas as a company, was registered 1999 and actually started operations properly in 2005. In 2003, the Federal Government invited bids for some fields, which they had declared as marginal fields. Midwestern was one of the companies that got awarded one of the marginal fields.

There were actually 24 awards made and 31 fields put on the market. Midwestern got the Umusadege field in Delta State near Kwale, and this was a field that was previously owned by Total (formerly, Elf).

So Midwestern was awarded 70 percent of the field, and Suntrust was given the other 30 per cent. So it was a forced marriage between Midwestern and Sun Trust because before then, we didn’t know anything about Suntrust, but that brought us together.

As you may know, all marriages usually have one or two problems along the way, especially when it is a marriage of strange bed fellows. But I must say it is credit to both Midwestern and Suntrust that we managed to stay in the mar-

the secret of your success?

First of all, it is the Grace of God, because you can be the cleverest, the richest, but if the Grace of God isn’t there, nothing would happen. So I give God the Glory that we have been successful.

Having said that, it takes a lot to bring a field on stream; you need to have the expertise, you need to have the money, and you need to be able to coexist with your communities. I know some of the awards that were made had all kinds of difficulties. To get the agreement signed was a problem for quite a number of them.

And then of course to get the money you need to develop the field was problematic. The banking industry in this country, their appetite for risk was very low, and therefore if you were looking towards the Nigerian banking industry to fund what you need to do a few years ago; it was a very difficult thing. But that is changing because the appetite for risk for the Nigerian banks is now much better, and the oil industry is high risk, high reward.

So if you were not prepared to take the risk, then you

,

All our wells have a longer distance from the borehole, even to the fence of the location

riage and to bring it to the success together.

We had a technical and financial partner called Mart Resources that came on the scene, and we actually commenced operations with them. We initially drilled Umusadege well four and it was not successful. We then decided to re-enter one of the existing wells Total had drilled.

We knew there was oil there, and we re-entered it and brought it on stream. So we commenced production at a level of 2,000 barrels per day, bpd, in April 2008. It shows much of the effort we have put into it and as we speak, the joint venture is capable of producing 19,000 bpd.

Although at the moment, we produce between 12,000 and 15,000 bpd. The difference between the capacity we have and what we are actually producing is because of the restriction in the evacuation route through Agip.

You said about 24 companies were given the marginal fields licences, but only a few have come to production, what is

,

wouldn’t get the high reward that comes. We were lucky we had a technical and financial partner who had some money and was prepared to take the risk on our behalf. This is why I always mention Mount Resources Inc, they came to us; they had the money and they were prepared to take the risk, and we signed an agreement with them to provide what it needed to develop the field.

So we have been successful and we have been able to work the agreement not only between us and Suntrust, the 30 percent JV partner. We are the operator and Suntrust is a non-operator. We have also been able to work the agreement between us and Mount Resources. To a large extent, the success of the field was dependent on our ability to work close to the agreements.

The other part of it is working with the communities. No matter how much money you have or approvals you get from the government, if the communities don’t let you operate you would not be able to operate.

Adams Okoene: MD Midwestern Oil So the final license to operate comes from the communities. So once you have reached an agreement with the communities, and you are able to come to accommodation between yourself and the communities, then you can operate. So those are the key elements that have ensured our success in this field.

How did you overcome the challenges others faced?

We have been working hard; we have been flexible in our approach, and you have to learn to sometimes bend over backwards to accommodate others. If you maintain a rigid position and your partner maintains a rigid position, nobody is going anywhere. I think that is part of the problem those other people have had and they have had other issues as well such as financing, etc.

So you have to be prepared to be flexible.

Maintaining same position The same thing applies to the situation that Midwestern was in; you have to take a view on any issue. A view that moves you forward and if you say well this is our position we must maintain this position and the other person maintains this same position, then nothing happens.

What is the ownership structure of your company?

Midwestern is a company that is mostly owned by Nigerian entrepreneurs. The Delta State Government has a minority share in the company; they actually have about 20 per cent in the company. The company is owned by entrepreneurs and industry experts.

Recently, Midwestern Oil was accused of not abiding by agreements, which prompted your invitation to the National Assembly, what were the issues?

Yes, I am glad you brought it up. It seems like somebody wrote a petition that we built our facilities too close to living environment and that we are not getting approvals as and when due from government bodies. These allegations are false. The government law says that the centre of the borehole of any oil well must be at least 40 metres from the nearest habitation.

All our wells have a longer distance from the borehole, even to the fence of the location. All our locations are fenced, and it is only outside the fence that you can talk about having a habitation and the distances concerned are a lot more by the minimum specified by the law. We have confirmed this and it is a fact and so that part of the allegation is not true. And in any case, the particular issue at hand, our location, was there before the building came up.

So it is not as if we went and built something near the house, it is the other way round.

We were accused of not getting approvals, again it is not true. We have ERA; we have approvals to drill our well, we have approvals to build our locations. As a matter of fact, a few weeks ago, Midwestern Oil got a letter of commendation from the Federal Ministry of Environment that came and audited our environment and our books. Also, at the various events that we invited DPR (Department of Petroleum resources) to, they have always

said Midwestern appears to be the beacon of light for all the marginal field groups, and they look towards us to lead the way.

So when we were invited by the House of Reps, DPR officials were surprised.

How do you give back to the communities in terms of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), because from the way you speak you seem to have a harmonious relationship with them?

I take this aspect of the business as being really critical.

It is as critical for me as health, safety and environment. I have three host communities, and I want them to believe in me, I want them to believe me when I say I am going to do something for them. First of all, I believe I would do it and then I agree with them on the plan of implementation.

I want them to see me actually implementing the milestone that I have said I would implement, and then integrity comes in. They believe what you say. When they see you are actually implementing what you said you would do, then trust is built.

If there is no trust, you really cannot get anywhere. I have a budget and plan every year that is agreed between me and the host communities. Once the trust is built on that half of the problem is solved. The other half is being able to stay clear from the internal problems of the community.

Internal problems Those internal problems would be there, even the best communities have internal problems because not everybody believe that what is good for the community is what is good for them. Some would believe that what enters their pocket is the only thing they want to see.

So if you are going to be successful, you have to be able to manoeuvre your way through those internal issues and still be able to do the things you believe are the things that are good for the communities. But you then have to be able to agree on a system with the community that enables you to do projects and things for the community without the cash ending up in a few pockets in the community.

We have a principle of no cash. We put the money in projects that people can see and the best for a community as a whole. And the fact that we have the Delta State Government on our side and part of the ownership of the company helps. Delta State Government has also said no cash, and when things get difficult, we can always tell the communities not to forget we have a big brother in Delta State Government.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013— 27

Midwestern Oil explains facility invasion

By AMAMDI ONYEGBADUE

M

IDWESTERN Oil and Gas Limited, said the reason for the recent attack on its production facility at Umusadege, Ndokwa West Local Government Area of Delta State, is still unknown, even as it admitted to receiving a strange letter from youths in the area prior to the attack.

The indigenous oil company in a statement made available to Vanguard last week, said, “... a band of armed men invaded our production site at Umusadege in Ndokwa

West Local Government Area of Delta State.

“They molested some staff members in dehumanizing manner, and eventually shut down the company, after they over-powered the company’s security guards.

“The immediate reason for the attack is not known.

However, two weeks before they struck, a certain group under the aegis of Umusadege Youth Forum had written two letters to the management of Midwestern Oil and Gas. (They) alleged, ‘no regard to the constituted authority of our land’, claiming also that the ‘primary benefits’ accruable to

the community are ignored.

“The incoherent letter further threatened that if the company did not respond to the issues raised, it will be compelled to “take any action that will disrupt the smooth operation of your organisation.”

Midwestern Oil, which described the allegations as “strange” and “unfounded”, said the company has always been “very active in the discharge of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), which has been through scholarship awards to the youths of the community, skill acquisition, renovation of classrooms,

building of roads, provision of water scheme, etc.”

It added that the company has also been “utmostly responsible in its dealings with the legitimate representatives of the community in line with the corporate governance structure and as enshrined in the executed memorandum of understanding (MOU).

“The said Umusadege Youth Forum is unknown to the relationship between the company and the community.

“Indeed, not only has the community disowned and condemned the assailants, it has reiterated its commenda-

tion for the beneficial relationship that exists between them and Midwestern Oil and Gas.” The company further noted that it had never experienced such “scale of violence perpetrated by the assailants, as its Community Liaison Officer had always related well with representatives of the community.

Against this backdrop, Midwestern Oil condemned “the unwarranted attack on our personnel and facilities and call for the arrest and prosecution of those behind it,” while urging the community to resolve whatever internal differences that exist among them.

28—Vanguard , TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013

By Theodore Opara

Abuja Motor fair to attract investment to auto sector T

HE 15th Abuja Inter national Motor Fair is targeted at attracting more investments as well as government attention to the sector. Disclosing this in a chat with journalists, Mr. Ifeanyichukwu Agwu, Chairman of the Organising Committee for the event said that every effort have been deployed to ensure that the sector receives the needed support from both the government and the private sector to enhance its’ rapid development.

“We are packaging a show that will showcase all the existing and potential investment opportunities that abound in the Nigerian automobile industry, which we believe are very attractive to existing and prospective investors”, he announced.

jor players in the industry across the globe to participate in the auto show and the responses have been highly encouraging; also decision makers in the government circle have been invited and they too are more than ready to grace the fair and ensure that the

needed government support and encouragement is not lacking”.

He remarked that, “The industry has for long been identified with low capacity utilisation; poor and inadequate infrastructure, low demand, inclement environment and policy inconsis-

tencies; amongst other challenges,” adding that “more investment needed to be attracted to the sector to ensure that its’ development is leapfrogged considering its multiplier positive effects on the economy.”

Although the economic transformation agenda of

the government is addressing some of the challenges hampering the development of the sector, the chairman noted that it was imperative that these efforts needed to be consisted and doubled bearing in mind that a well developed and

viable automobile industry has been the pivot on which many developed economies attained high level of economic development and growth. There is urgent need for the government to put in place policies that will increase the demand for brand new automobiles in Nigeria; ensure that players in the industry have access to low interest finance; tariff protection; stoppage of grey importation; he advised, emphasizing that, the industry remains the largest employer of labour in history.’

Automotive sector The event which holds at the Eagle Square Abuja from October 22-30, 2013 has been repackaged to ensure that all the tiers of government are made to accord the automotive sector high priority as it is capable of catalyzing and sustaining the nation’s quest for economic transformation the 20 most developed economy by the year 2020.

According to Mr. Agwu who is also the Managing Director of BKG Exhibitions Limited, “Hosting Auto Shows of international standard such as the Abuja Motor Fair will go a long way in placing Nigeria in the map of World automotive business and will equally fast track the making of the nation the hub of automotive business in the continent.

“With the over 100,000 annual demands for brand new automobile products in Nigeria, the Stakeholders cannot but strive to ensure that all hands are on deck to promote and support the inflow of more investments into the industry which is a well known veritable driving force for economic development”, he stated. Continuing, he said, “as part of the organizers’ efforts in promoting/driving investment into the sector they we reached out to maC M Y K

Audi Q3 challenges BMW X1, Range Rover Evoque

A

UDI, a subsidiary of the Volkswagen Group has relieved the hopes of customers eagerly waiting to catch a glimpse of it’s much talked about Q3 premium crossover.

The car which is designed to contend with likes of BMW X1 and Range Rover Evoque is Audi’s first entry into the ever-growing compact crossover market.

Styled in line with Audi brand slogan Vorsprung Durch Technik, meaning ‘Innovation through Technology ’ the new Q3 is sporty and progressive SUV for active, modern and urban lifestyles with predisposition for elegance, comfort and individualization.

Mr. Anurag Shah, Head of Sales and Marketing, Audi Centre recently gave this insights at the media presentation in Lagos saying “the new Q3 receives the same wedgeshaped headlights, single frame radiator grille with vertical element and large air inlets from either direction you view the car.”

He also noted that the Q3 is the outcome of Audi’s pledge in 2007 at the Shanghai Motor Show to design an intriguing crossover that looks much like a scaled-down version of the Q5 and larger Q7 .

It would be recalled Audi, at the show, unveiled the Cross Coupe Quattro concept from

where the Q3 took most of its design elements.

Built on the same A5 (PQ35) platform as the Volkswagen Tiguan, the Q3 is aside being a multifunctional SUV, specifically designed to serve the requirements of three different target groups; the younger singles, younger couples or best agers.

The Audi Q3 would ostensibly be pitched against rival Land Rover Evoque and BMW X1 though the Q3 could from all indication outsmart contenders by its functionality, dynamism and individualization.

“Suffice to say of the two competitors that undercut the baby Range Rover, the Audi Q3 is arguably the most stylish,

handily compact and finely finished,” Mr. Shah boasted.

Mr. Shah said the Q3 is available in four choice engines: two TFSI units and two TDI engines but only the TFSI petrol engine variables will be offered in Nigeria.

The base 2.0-liter TSFI engine mated to either a standard six-speed manual transmission or top-level 2.0 TSFI seven-speed dualclutch automatic S-tronic transmission with stop-start mechanism (to cut the engine when the car is idling) delivers a total of 211 horsepower and 221 pound feet of torque and the manual transmission delivers a total of 170

horsepower and 206 pound-feet of torque between 1,700 and 4,200 rpm.

While the manual transmission is capable of sprinting the Q3 from 0 to 62 mph in 8.2 seconds and up to a top speed of 131 mph or 260kmph and yet deliver an average fuel consumption 32.22 mpg, the top-level 2.0 TSFI delivers between 1,800 and 4,900 rpm in combination with standard seven-speed ‘S’ tronic, that accelerates the four-cylinder unit Audi Q3 from 0 to 62 mph in 6.9 seconds and up to a top speed of 142 mph.

The fuel consumption of this version is just 7.7 liters per 100 km (30.55 mpg).

Vanguard , TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013—29

By Theodore Opara

M

ERCEDES-BENZ is putting up a remarkable performance at the on-going Frankfurt Motor show where it is dazzling visitors with its array of exciting new products. Displaying its range of passenger cars at the show at Hall Two, the German auto maker stunned everyone with its new models and concept cars ranging from the multi-talented compact GLA SUV, BClass Electric Drive, SClass Coupe, The F-Series concepts, S-500 plug-inHybrid, new S63 AMG and S-500 Intelligent Drive. Also on display were the smart range like Smart Fourjoy concept car and Car2go.

Unarguably, one of the most outstanding halls a the fair ground, MercedesBenz came up with a lot of razzmatazz when it en-

Mercedes-Benz lights up Frankfurt Motor show •Showcases exciting new products gaged the press on the Media Night. It was a night to remember as they showcased their new range of products one after the other to the admiration of journalists present at the event.

The ovation was loudest when Dr. Dieter Zetsche, chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG Head of MercedesBenz cars alighted from the Mercedes-Benz S-500 Intelligent Drive which brought him without a driver on the drivers seat to the surprise of guests.

Radiating confidence, Zetsche highlighted the achievement of the company in the area of hybrid, electric drive, safety, and

emission reduction.

“Today our new S-300 BlueTEC Hybrid runs on 4.4 litres per 100 kilometers. And we now offer the Pre-scan chassis from the F 700 in the S-Class under the new name magic Body Control,” he said.

The S-500 plug-in-Hybrid proves that “green luxury” is more than marketing statement at MercedesBenz.

He identified the B-class, A-class and CLA class as the models that have helped the automaker maintain market leadership. “Overall, we have this trio to thank for a sales increase in the compact segment of more than 60 per cent since the start of the year. That the MercedesBenz is currently growing

•Dr. Dieter Zetsche, chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG Head of Mercedes-Benz cars presenting the S500 to the media faster than any other premium brand is due not least to our new compact models,” he said. According to him, no other manufacturer has more electro experience than Mercedes-Benz.

In her remarks, Dr. Annette Winkler, Head of Smart, a member of the Daimler Group, described the smart models as very successful.

“In Germany, it is the market leader among electric cars, with a market share of almost 40 per cent for the first half of the year and simply smart to drive.

According to her, the smart fourjoy which will be available with four seats will be launched next year.

Also speaking at the event, Prof. Thomas Weber, member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG, responsible for group research and MercedesBenz Cars Development stated that Mercedes-Benz boasts broader portfolio of vehicle with alternative drive than any other car makers.

“The fact is, nobody has broader portfolio of vehicles with alternative drive in the market than we do”. And

with a perfect balance of safety, comfort, driving fun and efficiency, the S-500 plug-in-Hybrid points the way to the future,” he said.

According to him, Mercedes-Benz dream is to have an accident free driving. “While the overall number of accidents in Germany has remained quite constant over the last 20 years, cases involving human injury have dropped by almost a quarter. The number of traffic victims even fell by two thirds to the lowest figure in 70 years. And this is despite the number of cars on the road has increased significantly, he added.

He said that their task is that a Mercedes should bring occupants more safety to their destination than any car. “We do not only want to mitigate the consequences of an accident but that, where possible, prevent accident altogether.

Stallion Motors bringing in new Nissan models

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TALLION NMN, a division of Stallion Motors in collaboration with Nissan Motor Company and Nissan South Africa will be unveiling a multimillion naira growth plan for Nissan brand.

The event which has been slated to hold at Oriental Hotel, Lekki later this month according to Stallion promises to be exciting with the launch of a rare species of Nissan vehicles.

Also adding that the show is an exclusively VIP red carpet event with the crème de la crème in Nigeria and apex Nissan officials in attendance, Stallion NMN said the evening would signify fresh turning point in the life of Nissan brand.

Vanguard Motoring gathered that arrangements have been concluded to impress guests through a 360- degree immersive experience that amplifies Nissan’s

C M Y K

new tagline ‘Innovation that excites.’

There would also be an explosive mix of glitterati, pulse racing models, cutting edge technology and entertainment that would make the evening worth remembering.

Guests, according to the company will similarly be treated to gastronomical experience with an array of specially created dishes and drinks for the event.

Meanwhile Usain Bolt, world’s fastest sprinter has been named Nissan’s new brand ambassador to reignite Nissan’s perceptive image.

This initiative according to the statement is part of Nissan’s global mid-term objective, ‘Power 88’ intended to reposition and expose Nissan to customers in a consolidated and comprehensive way, while also expanding Nissan’s influence in new markets.

30 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013

BY OLASUNKNAMI AKONI

H

OW will you feel if you suddenly discover that the driver of the bus or vehicle you have boarded is blind? In Lagos, it has been discovered that a large percentage of drivers, both private and public are suffering from different degrees of eye defects that have made them to be partially blind.

According to the Lagos State Drivers’ Institute LASDRI, which has trained about 65,000 drivers since August 2009, about 22 per cent of the trained drivers or 14,300 were discovered to be partially blind.

The law establishing the institute came into being in 2007 but LASDRI commenced operation on August 25h, 2009, with the sole aim of ensuring improved road safety culture on the roads.

Road safety culture Mr. Ayodeji Oyedokun, is the Chief Executive Officer CEO, LASDRI, while speaking with Vanguard on the activities of the institution for over four years, stated: “We are all aware of the fact that there are so many drivers with drivers’ license who never had any formal training in driving technology. We are aware of the fact that makes people to rush for driver’s license, which is mainly for an identification document.

“What we are saying in essence, is that there are so many people driving out there that are not supposed to owe drivers license because they did not pass through any formal training. This had led to a lot of carnages on the highway, traffic

•A driver under going an eye test *LASDRI boss

14,300 Lagos drivers are partially blind—LASDRI boss of competence, fitness, mental alertness, level of eye sight, because driving is about seeing

,

We are working with National Union of Road Transport Workers, NURTW; recently, most of the cab drivers in the state came for the training; the yellow bus drivers, popularly called “Danfo drivers” are recalcitrant but we are getting them batch by batch

snarl and jam, with resultant effect of gaseous emission into the atmosphere, which ultimately leads to health hazards, and loss of man hours, because they do not know the rules guiding the use of highway.

“In the highway transportation system, there are three main factors that interplay; the human being which is the driver, the environment-road and the vehicle, it is the human factor that is key to the severity or fatality of road crashes. Therefore, it is the human being that needs to be worked on in terms C M Y K

,

and being seen, hence, the government decided to set up LASDRI.” According to LASDRI boss, before the commencement of operation, various researches were carried out where it showed that 75 percent of auto crashes were due to human errors.

Statistics of trained drivers as well as detected defects by LASDRI Optometrist •From January to July, 2013, 12,017 drivers were trained and recertified.

•From August 25, 2009 to

July, 2013, a total number of 65,000 drivers trained.

•Out of the 65,000 of drivers tested, 22 percent (approximately, 14,300 drivers) were found to be suffering from eye defects, such as myopia and were later referred to ophthalmologists for corrective measure.

•And 99.2 per cent of drivers with eye defects were males, while 1.8 percent were females.

•1.8 per cent of the detected defects were myopic (short sighted) while 12.9 percent were pre-myopic •3.3 percent long sighted

Relationship with NURTW: “We are working with, National Union of Road Transport Workers, NURTW, recently, most of the taxi cab drivers in the state came for the training. The yellow bus drivers, popularly called “Danfo drivers” are recalcitrant but we are getting them batch by batch.

Though, all the executive members have been trained.

All the Bus Rapid Transit BRT, drivers, Rapid Response Squad RRS, drivers are being sent for training at the centres.”

Advice: “It is an opportunity for employers of drivers, motorists and the public to learn how safety can be enhanced through training. According to international standard, through training and retraining of drivers, auto accidents due to human error, are expected to be reduced between 35-70 percent.

Drivers are not being given adequate training but employers give them millions worth of vehicles to drive without considering safety of the investment.

Even companies, individuals from outside the states have been coming for training even federal government’s drivers have been coming. Drivers should also endeavour to have regular eye check up because in most cases, the capacity of

eye depreciates on daily basis because of exposure to different factors.”

HOUSING:

By DOTUN IBIWOYE

I

MAGINE buying a plot of land for half a million naira and somebody comes to claim that his ancestors bequeathed the land to him and insists that you must pay certain amount of money to commence work on the land.

Besides, he goes ahead to ask you to pay extras for foundation of your house, and another for fencing of the property. This practice is commonly referred to as Omo Onile wahala in Lagos Omo Onile are descendants of the first settlers in a particular location. They have rights to land under the Customary Law in Nigeria.

They remain the source of land for potential builders, that is, land not acquired by government through the Land Use Act of

Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013

ILLEGAL ABATTOIR: Beware, that meat may endanger your life

By OLASUNKANMI AKONI & MONSUR OLOWOOPEJO

Enormous challenge The development, it was said, posed enormous challenge to the administration’s new law to check the way meat is being transported in the state.

Government set up a taskforce to arrest people who use motorcycles, wheelbarrows and other unhygienic means to transport meat in the state. The provision of the new law disallows anyone to convey meat from the abattoir to any part of Lagos State except by Eko Meat Vans, while the services of the vans had been

S

•A demolished illegal abattoir at Otto-Awori, Ojo. Inset: A butcher on duty.

contracted out.

Subsequently, the associations directed their members to disregard the state government’s earlier directive, pending the determination of the substantive suit in court. ”The government should go and put their house in order first before coming out with this frivolous law. We refuse to be intimidated or harassed,” said one of the butchers.

Meantime, the state government last week commenced total clamp down on operators of illegal abattoirs and arrested 37 butchers at Otto-Awori Abattoir, in OtoAwori Local Council Development Area, LCDA. The abattoir had been in operation for over 15 years.

The suspects were arrested by the combined team of state Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives officials, with

state Taskforce on Environment and Special Offences.

The taskforce men, led by the its Chairman, Bayo Sulaiman, Chief Superintendent of Police, also impounded two vehiclesa Toyota Hilux with registration number: XY 438-AAA and a Mazda 626 with registration number KSF-444 AJ as well as four cows and fresh meats, worth several thousands of Naira were impounded.

The illegal abattoir is top on 20 other illegal abattoir identified by the state government.

However, the leader of the butchers, Mr. Adewunmi Olasheu, said “we don’t know that the place is not a legal abattoir because we have been slaughtering cow at the abattoir for over 15 years. And they pay N18, 000 and N5, 000 weekly to the state government and the LCDA respectively. We

Omo-oniles unchecked terror 1978.

Both owners of properties and Lagos residents have always had negative perception of Omo Onile because of the crude manner they extort money from those who buy land from them.

Indeed, there are families that truly own vast hectares of land and transferred the lands from generation to generation, but several Omo Onile are actually settlers who found themselves within vast lands.

The major shortcomings which had given a bad image to the Omo Oniles is the common practice of selling a particular plot or parcel of land to several persons and bolting away with the proceeds, allowing those fleeced to sort out themselves.

This often results in violence, loss of lives and in most cases, C M Y K

Fuel import: Stakeholders seek wharf landing fee removal

By MONSUR OLOWOOPEJO

D

O you know that meats slaughtered in any illegal abattoir may be dangerous to human health? How? They are not tested by any competent Veterinary Doctors to certify their safety consumption level for human.

Earlier in the year, some butchers in the state dared government’s ability to bite as they vowed never to comply with the directive to distribute meat, particularly beef, using the approved Eko Meat Vans.

The butchers, under the Umbrella of Lagos Island Associations, particularly, took government to court to contest the use of Eko Meat Vans.

Their grouse was that the vans were too few and might be too expensive to hire since they were contracted to private operators.

— 31

litigation among the buyers.

On July 31 this year, Lagos State Government commenced the full implementation of the new Land Use Law in the state.

The law makes it a criminal offence for anybody to file false documents for the purpose of obtaining Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) or government consent on land purchased after the Land Use Act of1978.

Lagos State House of Assembly has also begun deliberations on a bill to frustrate and criminalise activities of land grabbers, land speculators and regulate the activities of agents dealing with issues of land in the state.

Chairman, State House of Assembly, Committee on Judiciary, Public Complaints and Petitions, Mr. Sanai Agunbiade,

stated that the bill, a private member bill, which already had the blessing of the executive arm of the state government, will soon be presented to the House for further deliberations and passage.

“These land-grabbers are taking us back to the stone age of violence, barbarism and ridiculous way of doing things.

So we want to use the law to break that unholy chain that bonds lawyers, police and some land-grabbers who are criminally-minded.”

Governor Babatunde Fashola had also reiterated that 34 years was enough time for the transitional provisions of the Land Use Act to have taken place in the country, adding that if people wanted land in the state, it was available.

were issued receipts authenticating payments.”

Olasheu, explained that the money was paid to the coffers of both governments due to the huge number of cow slaughtered daily, adding “we slaughter over 15 cows daily.”

Illegal abattoirs The Special adviser to the Governor on Agriculture, Mr. Nurein Funsho and the Permanent Secretary of the State Ministry of Agriculture and co-operatives, Mr. Yakub Bashorun said 20 illegal abattoirs had been identified in the state.

Bashorun said: “The meat slaughtered and sold at illegal abattoirs tended to be unwholesome as animals were not subjected to government’s health safety checks before they were slaughtered for sale.

These illegal abattoirs operate without license. There are no veterinary officers inspecting the meat. They have absolutely no organized structure. They just operate anywhere, pollute the environment and pose health risks to residents.”

The Special Adviser urged those still operating illegal slabs to halt their operations forthwith, vowing that the government would ensure they face the wrath of the law, if caught

*Features of a standard abattoir State government’s approval, at least, a Veterinary Doctor, sanitary inspectors, Eko Meat Vans for meat transportation, clean environment, with portable water facility and an effluent channel for discharging wastes and animal by-products into water bodies.

TAKEHOLDERS in the maritime industry have appealed to the Lagos State Government to exclude petrol and kerosene trucks from wharf landing fees because “such fees affect the availability and price of the products in certain parts of the country.”

The appeal came as the state government said that only 30 percent of the stakeholders in the sector are paying wharf landing fees in the state.

Wharf landing fee, which is meant to go into local governments’ coffers for infrastructural development, is the payment made by owners of any containerized goods that move from the ports and pass through any local government area or council development area in the state.

The state government introduced the fee in 2002 following the passage and assent of the law in 2001.

Few years later, the government reviewed the law to exempt goods belonging to the Federal Government, foreign governments, Lagos State Government and all local councils in Nigeria and their agencies.

Speaking at the 2013 Stakeholders’ Forum on wharf landing fee collection at Alausa Secretariat, Ikeja, the stakeholders urged Governor Babatunde Fashola to lobby other state governors, to have a unified wharf landing fees across the country, to give operators adequate opportunity to plan ahead.

They lamented that for over 10 years, Lagos and other states have not changed their mode of collecting fees, demanding that the state should modify the system of collecting the Wharf Landing fee to suite the 21st century.

They also appealed to Fashola to lift the ban restricting movement of containerised trucks to some areas in the state especially, Festival of Arts and Culture, FESTAC, Town.

Major Oil Marketers Association of Nigeria, MOMAN, Mr. Chiemezie Anyafolu said: “We don’t oppose the collection of the fee. But what we want from the governments is to exempt oil trucks from paying the wharf landing fee.

32—Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013

VANGUARD BOOK SERIALS YESTERDAY.....

YESTERDAY we ran the first instalment of this book serial, in which you read how starched uniforms and brass bands was all it took for young Godwin Alabi-Isama to decide on a lifetime in the military, and trained in Nigeria and Aldershot, England. As tactics instructor at military school, he had the honour of being sent on a recruitment tour during which he brought some of today's big names into the Army.

READ ON.

zTunde Ogbeha

z Raji Rasaki

zDavid Mark

zAbdulKarim Adisa

Alabi-Isama's recruits: Yesterday's boys, today's big men

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NMF122 NMF124 NMF125 NMF129 NMF142 NMF147 NMF150 NMF151 NMF159 NMF163 NMF172 NMF176 NMF190

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tour, and I had to explain the benefits of joining the army. The incentives included the fact that you will be able to continue your education; you will be paid a salary – especially those from primary schools not older than 13 years, to enter NMS for 4 years training. You were fed free, with free uniform, free accommodation and opportunity for sports. I was the sports officer for NMS as well as their military tactics instructor.

The military school won the Davies Cup as the soccer champion of all secondary schools in the North that year. So most of the schools already had an idea what NMS was and its sporting prowess. Those recruited in 1962 into NMS Zaria, were a total of 72 children not older than 13 years of age, and included the following:-

Abdul One Mohammed Karimu Adisa Bawa Tnadah Adamu Alfa Mohammed Maina Ibrahim Rabo Sunday Ezenwa Godwin Dike Anthony Opurum Julius Wright Kola Balogun Lasun Odeleke Kenneth Onwukwe

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Late Late Late Late Late Late Late Late Late Late Late Late Late

Of the 72 students recruited into the Military School in 1962, a total of 26 are known dead and one known to be blind while a total of 46 are still alive in one profession or the other. Among those alive, as this book was going to press are: NMF123 NMF126 NMF127 NMF132 NMF139 NMF140 NMF148 NMF152 NMF158 NMF167

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David Mark Abdulkadir Babangida Tijani Aliyu Solomon Ogundare Bzigu Afakriya Jonathan Ogbeha Emeka Okere John Ihejieto Paul Ndimele Omeruo Andrew Okozala Okoja

NMF168 NMF172 NMF177 NMF187

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Isaac Areola Raji Rasaki Isaiah Gowon; and Ogbole Omugboga.

They were recruited without anyone knowing their parents or on the basis of any corrupt practices. Those were the days of yore.

How Ogbeha was almost denied admission For instance, NMF 140 Jonathan Ogbeha, now Senator Ogbeha who was 13 years old then cried and really wept that he was advised to talk to me by one of the other officers. He had passed all the examinations and the interviews but had failed the medical aspect of the tests. This young boy told me that the medical officer after testing his private part said that he had sexually transmitted disease, and he had never had any experience with any girl.

Then I calmed him down, and asked if he went to the toilet before the test, which he confirmed. Then I knew what had happened; because while we were in England, the same thing happened to me. Just before the medical test, I went to the bathroom and when I was tested, I was told that I had STD; whatever that was. I did not know and had never heard such words before. I cried my eyes out. I was to be sent back to Nigeria. What will I tell my mother – what a shame it was going to be for my mother who had joyously told everybody in her Ansar-ud-deen

mosque to keep praying for me every Friday, that her son was abroad, but she knew better not to say that I was in the Army.

Then, as God and my destiny would have it, Captain Tom, my instructor was just passing by and saw me weeping. He asked what the problem was and I told him that I was told that I had what is called STD, and I did not know what that was. It was there and then he asked if I had been to the toilet before the test and I answered, “Yes sir”.

He said that something similar had happened to him also as a young man with the Scots Guards, an Army unit in Scotland. He then took me by the hand and ordered a retest, which I passed.

I did the same with NMF 140 Jonathan Ogbeha. I took him by the hand, and ordered a retest of his medical examination which he passed. In today ’s Nigeria, I am sure the young man would perhaps have been replaced by a higher bidder in some of our institutions. I am, however, pleased that most of us who spoilt Nigeria are over 70 years old now; we were those of 20 years and above at independence in 1960.

We shall meet our Maker sooner than later; and I say once again that Nigeria will outlive all the evil doers, whoever they may be, that did not give peace to our dear country and people because of their injustice. The Lord will judge. “So mote it be”,

like late Oba Funso Adeolu, on stage as Chief Eleyinmi in The Village Headmaster of yore would say.

With the uncontrolled killings of Ibos and their look-alikes in the North, during and after the July 1966 counter coup, the government in its wisdom, after an

,

I

was the tactics instructor at the Nigerian Military School (NMS) Zaria in 1962, where I met Mr. H.H. Kirk Greene, the Principal of the Institute of Administration located at Zaria. He was a very nice British gentleman, and very friendly. He was the first to inform me, before my commanding officer Major Wakeman of NMS, told me, that I will be sent on tour of the entire Northern Region to educate students in all schools about joining the army and the NMS. The recruitment drive took 60 days.

This gave me a lot of opportunity to know the entire Northern Region of Nigeria.

Any officer, who joined the army from 1962 and from the North, did so after the tour. It was almost made compulsory.

It was an awareness

international conference which is not part of this book, created Four Area Commands in order to douse the tension that was everywhere, especially in the Northern region. Military people were to go to their regions of origin; Nigeria had four regions at the time — the North, the West, the

I am, however, pleased that most of us who spoilt Nigeria are over 70 years old now; we were those of 20 years and above at independence in 1960.

We shall meet our Maker sooner than later; and I say once again that Nigeria will outlive all the evil doers

The politicized Army: Road to conflict T HOSE who planned the January 15 th 1966 coup led by Major Kaduna Nzeogwu, an Ibo speaking officer of Midwest origin, did not appraise in-depth the consequences of failure and how they could handle it.

So when it failed, it was beyond their ability to handle. Then came the counter coup of July 1966 by the Northerners which succeeded, and which made all the Ibos wherever they were in the country to feel unsafe except in their own region of origin. This not only affected the military, it had severe political, social and economical consequences for the country; but I will like to limit myself to its impact on the military. While Ibos of Eastern origin moved to the East, the Midwest Ibos also moved to their region.

There was complete

breakdown of law and order within the military itself, necessitating the return of soldiers to their regions of origin. By this action, a regional ethnic military structure emerged, and everybody went to his/her region of origin. The 4th Area Command was in the Midwest with its HQ at Benin City.

The situation became more complicated with the Northern troops that should have all moved to 1st Area Command at Kaduna remaining in Lagos and the West and refusing to quit. The West did not like that and felt occupied, as all their senior officers and politicians did not like the idea of Northern troops in their midst.

The West, therefore, was not too keen to join in the war effort as the war was considered as the North versus the East or the Muslim Hausas versus the Christian Ibos. The

Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013—33

VANGUARD BOOK SERIALS Midwest was also neutral because of the majority of Ibo speaking officers there. On the 18th of June 1966, Governor of the Midwest state, then Col David Ejoor announced that the Midwest Region would be neutral in the unrest, even though salaries were being paid by the Federal Government in Lagos.

So all troops went to their area commands, where they would at least feel safe from other tribes.

The Army, like the political parties was now divided and set up on tribal lines.

Posted To Asaba THE situation at the time in Asaba was not only dangerous; but nasty for the 4th Area Command. Lt. Col. Trimnel had earlier been transferred to guard the Asaba Bridge but he was sick with a knee problem and was limping, so he complained, but no one listened. Lt. Col Trimnel was not even an infantry officer; he was of the Supply and Transport. Meanwhile Cols Nwawo and Okwechime, Major Ochei, and many more of the Ibo speaking officers of the 4th Area Command refused to guard the bridge against Biafra. Col Nwawo was the most senior Nigeria Army officer in the Mid-West, so he was the commander of the 4th Area Command. Meanwhile all the non-Ibo speaking officers of the 4th Area Command were given one type of diversionary job or the other. For instance, Major Sam Ogbemudia, in order to keep him away from pure infantry duties was appointed Quarter-Master. Another non-Ibo speaking officer was Major Pius Eromobor who was appointed Intelligence officer. It was then I went to the commander, Col. Conrad Nwawo, to volunteer to replace Lt. Col. Trimnel at the Asaba sector.

I was a Major then. So he agreed, and I moved to Asaba the next day.

Biafra’s first military blunder

What I did not understand as an Army officer was how on earth Biafran troops got to Sapele and Warri! What would they be looking for there? What tactics or strategy was that? One would have thought that the Biafrans had an aim and a plan to achieve it. To my mind, if I were in the Biafran High Command, Lagos was my objective, what would be

z David Ejoor

zVictor Banjo

zKaduna Nzeogwu

zMurtala Muhammed

zAlani Akinrinade

Biafra blunders: Why attack Warri, Sapele, others? my aim? Biafrans’ entry into the Midwest was to my mind a military blunder. There were better objectives than Benin and Lagos. What about Benue? The Benue River would have given Biafra a very good line of defence to the north. The Biafrans depended on the Midwest Ibo officers who in the end were not helpful to their cause. A traitor is always a traitor, and what you compromise to get, in the end you lose.

Some of the Midwest senior officers that sold out and went to join Biafra were, Lt. Cols. Conrad Nwawo, Okwechime, Ben Nwajei, Igboba, Ochei, and the worst of them all, Capt Joe Isichei.

The man called Achuzia, a civilian Midwesterner, fought for Biafra, as did Lt Col Morah, who became the paymaster in Biafra. How could Biafra win such a war, because as soon as the firing was too heavy to bear, they thought of mama and papa back in the peaceful Midwest, then they ran away. Most were losers.

Let us for once imagine that Biafra became a reality; what part of Biafra will these officers belong to?

What will happen to their children in future?

For readers of this historical account to understand the situation a little better, it was like troops advancing to capture Ibadan from Lagos but bypassed Ibadan, and got to Ilorin. Ibadan will beg for mercy. So, why worry about Asaba, Warri and Benin City when the big stuff was Lagos. I was not sure if the Biafrans had a plan for their AIM. And what was the aim anyway? Speed in the military is not running 100 meters dash, but by mak-

ing haste slowly according to the plans made. It took three to four days to announce a governor for the captured Midwest.

Their arrival at Benin carried no punch with it.

They just got some innocent children killed for Biafran currency- worthless. I remembered what Chief Dafe told me about the invincibility of these senior officers, and when the time came to show the stuff they were made of, they were jelly and soap

yam and gifts, I would have killed you now, you killed many of our soldiers at Asaba and ran away”.

He said he would not kill me; instead I would join Biafran troops to attack Ehor. At that time Nigerian troops had blocked and blown one bridge to further delay Biafran advance to Lagos beyond Ore. When they opened fire at the ragtag Federal troops, which were hurriedly put together at Ibadan and moved to Ore,

Biafrans’ entry into the Midwest was to my mind a military blunder.

There were better objectives than Benin and Lagos. What about Benue? bubbles.

Capture by Biafrans

JUST as we got to Agbor junction, a Biafran soldier recognized me at the road block. He was one of my footballers. He shouted, ”This is the man that killed some of our people at Asaba”. My wife was still crying – so I was arrested, and we drove to the Biafran commander’s office. And who was he? Major Ochei.

Then Captain Ochei was my boss way back at Zaria Military School (NMS) in 1962. We were at the military school together as Tactics Instructors at Zaria in 1962. An incident happened which he reminded me of when I was marched to him. “You stupid man”, he said, “you think you know too much; but for your mother who used to give us pounded

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most of the Federal troops fled – that was what led to the Yoruba slogan – “O le ku, Ija Ore” (it was tough at Ore Battle).

Alabi Isama, a Biafran officer?

IN the meantime, I was ordered to command Biafran troops deployed as reinforcement to Ehor to counter attack the federal troops commanded by Lt. Cols. Akinrinade and Murtala Mohammed. He introduced me to the officers and men.

Then we started talking tactics and strategy. He knew me well for both of us had worked together before as tactics instructors. He agreed that they had made a mistake by attacking me at Asaba, and that they lost over six hours as a result. Their plan was to arrive at Benin at midnight and Lagos at between 5-6 am during

the rush hour. He further told me that he was searching for Ogbemudia, who had joined the Nigerian troops, and many of the non-Ibo speaking officers. He also mentioned that the signal I sent from Asaba alerted everybody and rather than getting organized to fight, they all ran away. He also told me that Captain Tuoyo, the guard commander at the Government state house led the only soldiers that fired any shots at all. We spoke for more than an hour. I continued to drag the discussion longer and then I asked him to brief me on what next. He told me that but for the alert signal from Asaba which I sent they would have caught the Lagos and Ibadan troops napping but that the Biafran troops will now reorganize at Benin in view of the new challenges and head on to Lagos the next day after clearing Ehor town of federal troops. But if Ehor was difficult, he showed me how he would withdraw and where to on the map.

Note from Major Ndiomu Then came a lady I knew as then Major Charles

Ndiomu’s friend when we were at Benin 4th Area Command; with a note for me. I asked her, where is my brother? – She gave me the note to read. “Alabi, now that you are out, I trust you, I am at Forcados, can I come out?” I replied on the same note “I am out and alive, you may not be. Stay where you are; when the federal troops arrive, I will contact you”. I let Mr. Okonofua read the note. He looked at me surprisingly and I said: “Akinrinade is coming, he knows where to find me, and he is already at Ehor advancing to Benin”.

Akinrinade knew where to find me or where to look for me in Benin.

When we were young officers, we had some friends at Mission Road in Benin, and that had always been our rendezvous. I was sure that he would look for me there. I had already left a message with details of the Biafran plans as discussed with Ochei and let him know that I was making other efforts to reach him. Akinrinade thus knew that I was trying to escape.

Escape from Biafra Escape from Biafran captors AT about 7pm, the escort and driver took me to my guest house. I had planned my escape. I told all of them to return at 9pm. They did.

Meanwhile, I had slept a little. At 9pm, I told them to come back at 12 midnight – they did.

Then I told them to come back again at 3am. I commended them that they were good and disciplined soldiers, the type

that I would like to go to battle with, as they were punctual at anytime I gave them time for action. They came back exactly at 3am as I had ordered them. I followed them this time to see troops’ preparation and further addressed them on the task ahead as officers would to their men preparing for battle. I was escorted back to my guest house. I then told the escorts to go and get some rest but to come

34—Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013

VANGUARD BOOK SERIALS Col. Adekunle here introduces his commanders to the Head of State, General Gowon.

Akinrinade is first right, Alabi-Isama next.

zBiafran warlord: Odumegwu-Ojukwu

Escape from Biafra, imprisoned in Kirikiri, and thence to 3MCDO

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back at 5.45am. I made sure that they saw me getting ready and wearing the Biafran uniform issued to me by Ochei.

The escorts left and I also told the driver and orderly to go now and get some rest and that we have a long and tough day ahead of us. Some 10 minutes after they left, I drove out in the Mercedes Benz and headed first on Lagos road and mentioned my name many times and made some noise. The idea was for the road blocks to say that they saw me pass on Benin-Ore road, heading to Lagos. Then I turned back to Ikilibi Utagba-Uno. At about 5am, I was home with my family. My second son Gbolahan was very sick and there were no medicines around. I took him, and picked up Mr. Martins Nwoseh and headed back to Benin through Eku. By the next day, federal troops arrived Benin City. Akinrinade knew where to find me; we met at Mission Road and it was a great re-union.

Federal troops advance I took a Battalion from Akinrinade’s brigade of federal troops. We started advancing towards Agbor. It was at this point that Col. Murtala Mohammed met me and expressed happiness that I alerted Lagos from Asaba on the night of 8 th August 1967. But when he later heard that I had joined the Biafran Army, he was looking to kill me. I then gave him a detailed brief about all that transpired. He was pleased with my expla-

Gowon then was said to have ordered that I be released immediately and posted to Adekunle in the Calabar front. Akinrinade was posted to Bonny Island; both units were part of 3MCDO Division

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nations.

Head of State (Gowon)’s call to Lagos The next day, I was recalled to Benin and told that Gowon had sent a plane to bring me to Lagos. I was so happy and thought that medals were waiting for me and that I was going to be decorated like a Christmas tree with medals of gallantry, for alerting federal troops on the night of 8th August 1967 and all that. The flight was for 6pm and the time was 11am. While waiting for the flight, I went to Baba Bazuaye and told him that I thought I was going to be decorated by the Head of state, General Gowon in Lagos because of all these events – the fight at Asaba and Agbor; and my escape from Biafran troops after I was captured. I told him that Gowon sent a plane to bring me to Lagos. I then spent about an hour at Baba Bazuaye’s house ironing my uniform in which I thought that I was going to be decorated by the Head of State of the country. I later arrived in Lagos at about 8pm that night, was met at the airport and driven to Dodan Barracks. When I got to

see General Gowon, the way and manner in which I hit my feet coming to attention was so hard that I felt the pains right to my spine. However, the story I heard from Gowon was far different from my expectations. Gowon said: “Well, take him away; I am at a meeting with President Eyadema of Togo”.

I turned around and hit my right foot on the floor again, parading and saluting Gowon. I have not really recovered from the pain on my spine till today.

Kirikiri experience AFTER the audience with Gowon, I went back into the vehicle and we drove away. I dozed off and had no idea where we were going until we stopped. I woke up in absolute shock to find myself at Kirikiri Maximum Security Prisons. For a moment, I was disoriented, and then I screamed, grabbed the Prison superintendent’s jacket and tore his uniform. His name was Mr. Ifijeh; and he was much older than me. As I jumped on him and rough-handled the innocent fellow, I was also crying.

“How can this happen to me?” I screamed.

Other prison officials

came to the aid of Mr. Ifijeh and overpowered me. Mr. Ifijeh raised his baton to hit me, but stopped short of doing that and said: “People like you don’t know God. There is war out there, people are dying and you are here kept by God in a maximum security place – you are complaining and fighting.”

I continued screaming and asked Ifijeh what type of God he thought I serve, who did not keep me at the Federal Palace Hotel (that was one of the best hotels in Lagos at the time) to drink and dance?

“You think my God will keep me at Kirikiri?” I spat the question at them.

They just threw me into one of the cells and banged the door. For the next two days I refused to eat. I was protesting my detention at Kirikiri with hunger strike. Prison officials pleaded with me to eat but I refused.

But by the second day, I was so hungry that I gave up. A warder then came by my cell and asked if I was ready to eat. I said yes.

By the third day, I was allowed into the prison compound to walk around and exercise. I met some of the prisoners including Chief Kotoye, a director of the former Societe-General Bank and one hard core prisoner who had been there for eight (8) years, called Ewele. Every time I was released to walk around, all the prisoners hailed me. I resigned myself to my fate. I could not change the situation and I was now their new

leader. I was not ready to plan another escape.

It was not worth it anymore. I had suffered enough. I took it as good holidays with room service, except for the floor I slept on.

Asaba-River Niger crossing and 2 Division MY mother was looking for me, Akinrinade was looking for me and so was my sister. The federal troops that I was leading before I was recalled near Abudu on Agbor road drowned and died at Asaba River Niger trying to cross into Onitsha. Their tactics of a frontal attack on the enemy at the opposite end of the river was one of the blunders of the Nigerian Army during the civil war. Akinrinade had protested against the plan to cross the river`frontally at Asaba and he fell out with his commander, Col. Murtala Mohammed. The rest, today, is history. As if that was not enough, 2 Division under Col. Mohammed’s command made further attempts to capture Onitsha frontally.

Finally, they went through Agenebode/ Idah, via the left flank.

But federal troops then lined up in a convoy as if on a bush training exercise. The convoy was ambushed at Abagana — where many more troops were killed and all their vehicles, supplies of food and medicines burnt and destroyed. It was a disaster for which as at the time of writing this book, no official lists of the dead and wounded had been released. As a matter of fact, there was no official enquiry as to what happened till today.

Who cared? It was not until March 21, 1968 that 7 Brigade under Lt. Col. Yar ’Adua took Onitsha, forcing Biafran troops under Col. Nwawo into the Nnewi enclave. From then on, it was mostly quiet on 2 Division front even until the war ended. They treaded softly thereafter. I would have thought that instead of destroying all those equipment, vehicles and supplies, those could have replaced some of Biafra’s losses during their entry into the Midwest – but it was not to be. The Lord still kept NIGERIA together.

The news of the first Onitsha river-crossing disaster went round and of course Gowon was told. Then he was said to have asked: “All the troops?”

“Yes”.

“Alabi Isama, Akinrinade and all?”

He was then reminded that “the last time you ordered Alabi to be taken away, he was taken to Kirikiri prisons and locked up and Akinrinade was looking for him, so both officers were not affected.”

Gowon then was said to have ordered that I be released immediately and posted to Adekunle in the Calabar front. Akinrinade was posted to Bonny Island; both units were part of 3MCDO Division of the Nigeria Army in the Atlantic theatre of the war.

TOMORROW.....

Coming your way tomorrow is how the war proper got underway in 3 Marine Commando's area of operations. One issue came up after the Calabar landing: Was 3MCDO going to advance to Port Harcourt from Bonny, a mere 50 miles, or from Calabar, a distance of 300 miles. Which one? Don't miss this serial!

•The Tragedy of Victory is available in bookstores and amazon.com

Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013— 35 2013—35

Help! My mother is denying me! (2)

T

HE next day, our fourth born called me and told me to be patient, that with time, I will know the truth about who my mother, adding that she is

not in the position to tell me yet.

Neither should I also discuss it ever with anyone. I was about 12 years then and had just gained admission into Secondary School. Rather than put my heart to rest, my sister had confirmed my fears that there was something wrong with me. The truth would hit me about four years later. Ever since, I have not been the same again.

As time went by, my siblings started returning to Nigeria one after the other. The first son who also happened to be the second born returned home with his wife and children about the same time with the fourth born, the one close to me.He stayed for a few months in our house before they finally moved into one of the flats owned by our mother.

It was during a conversation between him, his wife and our fourth born that I first overhead the secret. I was indeed not my mothers daughter and therefore not sibling to any of my sisters and brothers. My mother was my sister, our first born and my mother was my grandmother.

My supposed siblings were my uncles and aunties.

It took me a few minutes to understand what I was hearing and because I was not part of the conversation and did not have the courage to go and demand for explanation from them, I could only hide there behind the house. I didn’t know

when I started crying.

Things started making more sense to me. The wide age gap between my siblings and me and why they could not relate well with me. But it also left me wondering about a lot of things.

If my sister is my mother, why are they not calling me her daughter? Is it that she did not

,

HI THE first part of the story you are about to read was published last Thursday. It is the pathetic story of a young lady who is greatly disturbed emotionally and psychologically. According to her, at 29, she does not know who are parents are? Her world fell apart the day she discovered that she bears her mother’s maiden name.

My take is that this is a classic case of over indulgence on the part of this lady’s grandparents as well as sheer wickedness and lack of fear of God and humanity on the part of her mother.

That is if indeed she qualifies to be called a mother. I have advised Idara (not real name) to seek for solace with God who does not abandone nor forsake anyone.

However, as is our style on this column, we would love to know what our readers have to say about this story. Your contributions may help heal this lady’s broken heart as well as provide inspiration and courage for and anyone with a similar story to face the future. Our address remains: thehumanangle93@yahoo.co.uk Happy reading!

though I was just a few years older than them. The most painful thing was that they were all enrolled into private schools while I continued in the public school. It was as if nobody was interested in my happiness or survival at all. In fact, if anything happened to me, they probably wouldn’t have cared.

I carried this secret with me for a very long time before I could summon up the courage to ask my usual source of little succor and information. She could not believe her ears when I informed her that I have discovered that our mother is not my mother and that my mother is aunty Obioma. She asked who told me and I told her how I heard them talking about it months back when brother and his wife were still living with us.

I begged her to tell me the truth and why everyone calls me grandma’s daughter.

She said it was a long story

I got the beating of my life and my mother did not only renounce me as her daughter but warned me not to tarnish the reputation of her daughter with my ugly story, if I was so badly in need of a mother, I should go and look for one

know that I am her daughter?

Why am I bearing my mother’s maiden name, or rather, my grandmother’s maiden name and not my father’s name? Who is my father and where is he?

Is it that he did not want me or why does he not come to see me? Why are they keeping my real identity a secret?

This little secret was too much for my little head and it began to worry me so much. To add to that, the maltreatment from my mother and neglect from my siblings and their family did not help my situation. My mother treated our first son’s children with love and kindness, buying almost everything under the sun to pamper them. I was even made to look after them even

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and she was not in the position to tell me. She also warned that no one else must hear about our conversation. Should I be foolish enough to tell, I must never mention where I heard it from.

However, it appeared my aunt could not control herself and she must have gone to discuss it with our brother who in turn, discussedwith our mother.

One day, my mother came in fuming and shouting my name at the top of her voice, calling be a bastard and other awful names. She asked who was telling me stories and that the person and I would die together.

To cut the long story short, I was told that my father was a bastard like me and had died in the forest like I also would. That

day, I got the beating of my life and my mother did not only renounce me as her daughter but warned me not to tarnish the reputation of her daughter with my ugly story. If I was so badly in need of a mother, I should go and look for one elsewhere.

My problem doubled from that day. But the more I wanted to know the truth concerning my birth and who my father was. I still found it difficult to believe that Aunty Obioma could be my real mother. Of all my mother’s children she treated me the worst. I kept to myself anytime she was around. We were like night and day, our paths never crossed and I always wished she did not come home at all.

As the first born and a girl, she ought to be like a mother to us all but she was the most selfish and arrogant. She did not really have a cordial relationship with the others too but she was treated with respect as the eldest and perhaps the apple of our mother’s eyes. When at a point she did not come to Nigeria for several years, I was really happy. By that time, I heard that she had married and had children. When she returned to Nigeria, she settled in one of our mother’s houses with her family not too far from our mother’s house. And she continued to ignore me as if I never existed.

I would watch the way she related with her children as if they were the most precious things in the world. I would serve them all like a maid, even at their house at her demand or my mother’s.

She would tell people to my hearing about the three lovely children that God has given her and how they will get the best things in life that she could afford. They also attended private schools and travelled often abroad for holidays. Her husband even as I speak has never given me a kobo, even when I had my first child. Neither of them attended the naming ceremony. .

Words can make or break your relationship

BY ONOZURE DANIA

R

ELATIONSHIPS, no mat ter how firm they may seem, are fragile. A relationship has many needs to be successful, but almost all these needs are subconscious.

Romantic gestures, memories, communication and pillow talk may be key requirements of a great relationship but there is another subtle detail almost none of us bother about. And that’s the power of words in a relationship.

Have you ever thought about how you speak to your partner, or how you treat them in private or public places? The kind of words you choose or the way you behave can have a much deeper impact than

you can imagine. The words you choose can make your relationship a lot better, or at times, it can push your partner away from you forever.

You may communicate well, share your dreams, respect your lover, but the way you use the power of words could still affect your relationship on a subconscious manner.

The power of words in a relationship is a subconscious energy that balances the relationship.

The words you choose and the way you say something can make your lover feel closer to you. Even as individuals, words play a big part in our lives. A compliment is a compliment, yet, the words used to compliment you makes all the

difference, doesn’t it?

On the other hand, words that you personally associate with negativity affect you more.

If someone speaks about the traits of low confidence to a person who believes they are not confident, it would affect them more than it would a person who doesn’t believe it’s a negative trait of theirs. And just like that, in our respective romantic lives too, the words we choose while speaking with your partner can subconsciously affect their views on the relationship.

You may believe you are sensitive and sweet because you never criticize anyone or never pick an argument with anyone. But your partner may subconsciously believe that you are rude at times, or perhaps even dominant. And that’s all because of the words you choose in your conversation while talking about matters close to both

your hearts. How you speak to your lover affects the way they think of you, the relationship and the way they approach their own life. Their motivation and inspiration depends on the way you choose your words around them.

Kind words make us feel safer.

Criticisms make us feel weaker and low on confidence, angry words make us angry. And reassuring words comfort us. If you want a happy relationship with your lover, you need to focus more on positive words and reassuring words.

At times, when your partner is feeling down and you know it’s their own fault, you still need to use words that will make them feel better about themselves. Bite your tongue and save the accusations and the criticisms for another day when your partner isn’t feeling so low. Do you listen to your partner’s views completely before giv-

ing your suggestion? Learn to do that.

If your partner has a suggestion or wants to do something, avoid contradicting them or saying ‘no’ immediately. Instead, voice your negative opinions through calm questions so your partner can look at the big picture through your eyes. It will help both of you look at the relationship as a team effort instead of a battlefield of opinions and dominant partners.

Both of you should learn to be respectful towards each other in front of others. Don’t oppose your partner’s views unless you are joking, don’t cut your partner in between a sentence just because you feel they are not explaining something well. It will only make your partner feel low on confidence around you. Join in the conversation, but never overpower your partner.

36—Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013

Land ownership crisis looms between Rivers communities

NIMASA sets up college in Delta

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BY EGUFE YAFUGBORHI

RANSITION Committee Chairman of Bomadi Local Government Area, Delta State, Mr. Collins Olorogun, has said that the Nigeria Maritime and Safety Agency, NIMASA, Science and Technical College sited in Okoloba community will help in the technological advancement of the river side communities of the state.

He challenegd parents to send their wards to the school, appealing to those who would be admitted into the school to take their education seriously.

Speaking to newsmen in Bomadi, Olorogun said there was little one can achieve without proper education, adding that science-related school would remedy most needs of the people in specialised areas of the education sector.

He said that the College was a right step in the right direction, which according to him would produce trained skilled personnel needed in middle man power sector in Nigeria, especially the Niger Delta.

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ORT HARCOURT— EKPORO community in Eleme, Rivers State, has petitioned the state Police Commissioner, Mr. Joseph Mbu, to intervene in the lingering land dispute with neighbouring Ogu people in Ogu/Bolo Local Government Area of the state, to avert loss of lives and property.

In the petition by Chief Samuel Obe, Paramount Ruler of Ekporo, the community alleged that youths of Ogu, numbering over 200, recently invaded Ekporo, shooting sporadically, while destroying economic trees in guise of clearing a road in the community.

The petition noted that “many inhabitants of Erikpo fled in the face of this onslaught since they (the invaders) were threatening to begin demolition of buildings.”

The community said that the renewed threat by its neighbours stemmed from Erikporo’s protest against recent encroachment and fencing of an estimated 30 hectares and seizure of another 10 hectares of Erikpo communal lands.

It further stated that following Erikporo’s complaint of renewed encroachment months ago, immediate past Rivers State Police

Commissioner had summoned parties in the land dispute, directing that none should develop the land until a boundary demarcation exercise was completed by the Rivers State Government.

The petition said: “We also

signed an undertaking to abide by the directive. It is disheartening that despite that directive, the people of Ogu continue to build on that land unhindered. Despite our reports to your (police) office in Eleme, nothing seems

to have been done.

“Our community was completely destroyed by Ogu community in 1999 and the Rivers State Government White Paper on the development is a testimony to that attack.”

Omo-Agege advocates Urhobo minister

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EOPLES’ Democratic Party aspirant in the forthcoming Delta Central senatorial district election, Chief Ovie OmoAgege has appealed to President Goodluck Jonathan to appoint a worthy Urhobo son or daughter as a minister in his cabinet.

The appeal by Omo-Agege is coming on the heels of the recent relieving of the appointments of nine ministers from in the President’s cabinet.

In a letter addressed to President Goodluck Jonathan, OmAgege said: “Mr. President, I seek your fatherly indulgence to reward our past massive electoral loyalty and pledges of future electoral loyalty by making a worthy Urhobo son or daughter a minister in your cabinet as you consider replacement for those that just concluded their service to our fatherland.”

The former Delta State Commissioner for Special Duties and Secretary to Delta State Government, SSG, said: “Mr. President, 2015 is around the corner and you can be rest assured that just as we voted overwhelmingly for you in 2011, we will do the same and even better in 2015 to ensure your re-election to bring transformation to a stage where it becomes irreversible.”

Omo-Agege, who was among delegates of Urhobo Progress Union, UPU, that paid a solidarity visit to President Jonathan in Abuja recently, added that “Urhobo nation is the fifth largest ethnic nationality in Nigeria.

“Urhoboland is also host to more than 15 oil and gas fields and about 400 oil wells, the highest onshore producer of crude oil in Nigeria. Our pedigree can also be measured

by the fact that UPU was established 82 years ago.”

PDP chieftain tasks Oshiomhole on industrialisation

BY SIMON EBEGBULEM

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ENIN—A chieftain of Peoples' Democratic Party, PDP, in Edo State, Mr. Kenneth Imasuagbon, yesterday, urged Governor Adams Oshiomhole to build industries in the state to create jobs for the youths.

Imasugbon, who was one of the governorship aspirants of PDP in the 2012 governorship election in the state, lamented the spate of

kidnapping in the state and other parts of the country, stressing the need for government at all levels to create jobs for the youths, which according to him was the only solution to kidnapping and youth restiveness.

He spoke, yesterday, when he was honoured with the Award of Excellence by the Edo Artist Association of Nigeria, EAAN. Similarly, the PDP chieftain also reiterated his resolve to continue

his youth empowerment programme and distribution of rice to indigent people across the three senatorial districts of the state, when he received an honour for youth empowerment from an indigenous Benin musician Nowamagbe (A.K.A. Peoples' Chairman) in Benin, yesterday.

Recalling the trauma the people of the state passed through when the human rights lawyer, Chief Mike

Ozekhome was kidnapped, Imasuagbon, who indicated his interest to run for the 2016 governorship election in the state, said: “It is sad that our people are being kidnapped almost every and I believe it is because our youths have no job.

“So, I am appealing to Governor Oshiomhole to create more jobs and industrialise the state, so that our youths will have jobs that can keep them busy.”

BY FESTUS AHON

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GHELLI—NO fewer than 120 youths have been trained in various skills by Isoko South Local Government Area, Delta State, under the Subsidy Re-investment and Empowerment Programme, SURE-P. Presenting starter parks worth millions of naira to the graduands, state Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, Mr. Newworld Safugha, said that the project was in line with the three-point agenda of Governor Uduaghan.

Safugha, who was represented by a Director in the Ministry, Mr. Victor Owurhughen, charged the beneficiaries to make judicious use of the starter packs, adding that “God will not forgive you if you sell the packs and go back to the streets jobless.”

Consultant to the council on SURE-P is Ms Josephine Anumbor, of Love To The World Initiative.

By Bartholomew Madukwe

PEOPLE SPEAK

08102479985

Isoko council trains 120 youths

(nwamad@yahoo.com)

On boy found on airplane's wheel well

OW! What a story.

He should be employed by the airport management for him to have outsmarted all of the security personnel on duty. Who knows if it was not one of the security staff that helped him? You never can tell anyway.— Mrs Bukky Oluwale, Administrator.

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ANIEL is just one of thousands of Nige-rians that have the capability but lack the capacity to actualise their dreams. He deserves the highest national award and training to encourage others that there is a chance for everyone.— Mr. Kingsley Edokpa, Businessman.

HAT a stunt and high risk from such a little boy.

So for me, he should be trained and taken care of by the Federal Government. Also, Arik Airline should make use of the boy as part of its staff in the security department.— Mr. Ogunleke Piresy, Worker.

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HE stowaway boy did what he did be cause of “making it.” Our youths have lost hope in this country.

Many of them have gone into various evil works, but Daniel felt if he could make it outside Nigeria, he will “make it.”— Chief M. A. Aina, King-Maker.

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HIS is the kind of guy we need in our country for things to move forward— courage. DSS, I beg you in the name of Our Lord, don’t waste this raw material. It will be useful to our country. What he needs is more training to make out something from his little effort.— Mr. Emma Chidera, Model.

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LTHOUGH I do not support the little boy’s idea of going in the airline’s wheel well to hide, thinking the flight is going outside Nigeria, I still want to commend him for his courage. I am a retired Brigade Commandant, so I know what I am saying.— Mr. Solomon Bombata, Pensioner.

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Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013—37

700 DPP members decamp to PDP in Isoko

Omo-Agege promises to revitalize Delta Steel coy if...

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BY FESTUS AHON

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GHELLI—A PEOPLES Democratic Party, PDP, Senatorial aspirant in the Delta Central senatorial byelection, Obarisi Ovie OmoAgege, weekend, promised to revitalise the moribund Delta Steel Company, DSC, Ovwian-Aladja, if elected to the Senate.

Omo-Agege, who spoke when he paid separate visits to the National Vice Chairman of the party in the SouthSouth zone, Dr Steve Oru in Ughelli and the executive of the party in Ughelli South Local Government Area, said that he has the capacity to resolve the seeming political marginalisation the Urhobos.

Noting that he would not disappoint the people if given the mandate, the former Secretary to the State Government, SSG, said he would ensure that the road linking Abraka and Benin city through Sakpomba road was built, adding “the Federal Government has since approved that road for construction but there is nobody to pursue it. I will see to it that the road is built when you send me to the Senate.”

Isoko youths want Erebor to contest House of Reps poll

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political pressure group, Delta Youths for Credible Representation, DYCR, has urged Chief Augustine Erebor to vie for the House of Representatives seat for Isoko federal constituency come 2015.

The group in a statement after its meeting in Warri, by its Coordinator, Prince Larry Odhomi, said the call became necessary considering the philanthropic work Chief Erebor has been doing in Isoko nation.

The statement said: “We, the youths in Isoko and other front line groups in Delta State are satisfied with Chief Erebor’s achievements in business, selflessness, humanitarian, patriotic and philanthropic services and we have decided to work with him to clinch the House of Representatives seat come 2015."

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President Goodluck Jonathan (right) presenting a souvenir to the outgoing Ambassador of Bukinafaso, Mr. Dramane Yameogo, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, yesterday.

Ozekhome: Edo govt urged to fight kidnapping with job creation

BY CHARLES KUMOLU

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NUEDO Foundation, has said that unless the unemployment rate in Edo State was not urgently addressed by the state government, the fight against rising incidents of kidnapping would not be fruitful.

It also called for increased funding of security apparatus in the state, even as it wants the Federal Government to collaborate with the state government on the matter.

A statement by its President, Chief Lawson Omokhodion, described the recent kidnap of Chief Mike Ozekhome, SAN, his driver, and Athanasius Ugbome, as an indica-

tion of the disturbing rate of unemployment in the state.

He said “UNUEDO notes with grave concern, the recent kidnap of, Chief Ozekhome, his driver, and Ugbome, a chieftain of the state’s chapter of the All Progressives Congress, APC, by gunmen at the Ehor, on the Benin-Auchi expressway on August 23. The policing and manning of the known volatile routes in Edo and the monitoring of suspected kidnappers must be improved upon.

"While UNUEDO acknowledges the efforts of the

state government in fixing the decayed infrastructure, there is need to engage the teeming unemployed youths, with work to reasonably guaranty peace and security of residents.

“Unuedo foundation urges the Edo State Government to check the unbridled activities of kidnappers and armed bandits, who rob, maim, kidnap and extort inhabitants of the state at will, a situation that had restrained indigenes of the state from visiting home for fear of being kidnapped, or robbed by these criminal elements."

DESOPADEC asks communities to monitor projects

BY FESTUS AHON

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GHELLI—DELTA State Commissioner for Special Duties in charge of Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission, DESOPADEC, Mr Tonye Timi, has charged oil producing communities in the state to monitor projects being executed by the commission in their areas as a way of checking abandonment of projects.

Giving the charge while inspecting DESOPADEC projects in Olomoro, Okpolo-Enwhe, Igbide, and Uzere communities all in Isoko Local Government Area, Timi expressed satisfaction with the quality of work done, appealing to contractors working with the commission to deliver projects awarded to them within the stipulated completion period.

Commending the Olomoro community project monitoring committee for its role towards the completion of projects, the commissioner charged benefiting communities of DESOPADEC projects to partici-

pate in the execution in order to realise the state government’s vision.

Timi, who inspected the ongoing perimeter fences and gate houses at the Government Hospital, Olomoro, Olomoro Comprehensive Secondary School, the completed Odibo

Road phase I and the on-going phase II, the completed block of six classrooms at Olomoro Primary School as well as other DESOPADEC projects in Olomoro, appealed for the removal of the community’s shrine from the premises of the Government Hospital.

Book launch

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HE launch of a book titled “Becoming Who Companies Want” by Afconrecruit Ltd will take place in Lagos on Saturday September 21, 2013.

The book is tailored to meet professional cutting edge of business productivity, human capital solution and employability of personnel in the corporate world.

According to the Managing Director/CEO of Afconrecruit Ltd. Funmilayo Adedeji, the launch will have in attendance

Erelu Olusola Obada, former Minister of Defence as special guest of honour, Mrs Olateju Philips, former Lagos State Commissioner of Commerce, Industry, and Tourism, as the chief launcher, while Mr. Seyi Onajide, Tunde Omotoba, Dimeji Matesun, Seyi Akinwunmi, and Charles Onabowale will be guest of honours.

The book is expected to be reviewed by Mr. Wole Ayoneke, Head Human R e s o u r c e s , G l o Communications.

EMBERS of Democratic Peoples Party, DPP, numbering over 700, have decamped to the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Irri Ward 2, Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State.

Speaking at the ceremony in Ada-Irri, Isoko South council, the leader of the party in the area, Chief Eddy Ugboma, said he was happy to welcome back the decampees as they were formal members of PDP, who left the party due to some crises in the past.

He said now that they have remember their first love by returning to PDP, the party was ready to work and make good use of their enormous political experience to move the party forward.

Ugboma noted that PDP in Irri will remain focus and committed, irrespective of what anybody will do to frustrate the effort of building the party, urging PDP faithful to always speak PDP to others, who are still at lost, as PDP was the only party that will never die even though the party has problems at the national level.

Community lauds Delta govt, Burutu LG for resolving crisis

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OMADI—THE people of Tuomo community in Burutu Local Government Area, Delta State, have commended the state governor, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan, for resolving the intra-communal crisis that bedeviled the community last year, which led to displacement of indigenes and destruction of property worth millions of naira.

Speaking with newsmen, weekend, the paramount ruler of Tuomo Federated Community, HRH Perekeme Ogah, expressed gratitude to the state government for the peace initiative carried out through the Burutu council, which ultimately brought the crisis to an end.

He thanked Governor Uduaghan for fulfilling his three-point agenda for Deltans, and peace and security for Tuomo.

The traditional ruler also commended the Burutu council chairman, Navy Capt.

Buckman Deinne (rtd), for his enthusiasm and thoroughness.

38—Vanguard , TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013

Uncertainty over Ebonyi LG poll

BY PETER OKUTU

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BAKALIKI —UN CERTAINTY hovers around Ebonyi State over the possibility of the conduct of the local government election by the state Independent Electoral Commission, EBSIEC, scheduled to hold on September 28, 2013 in the state.

Apart from the ruling Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, which began campaign for the forthcoming election in the 13 local government areas since last Tuesday, no other political party has demonstrated any atom of preparedness for the election, considering the yet-to-be vacated court injunction restraining EBSIEC from conducting the election.

It would be recalled that the Federal High Court in Port Harcourt had on August 7, issued an injunction to the respondents, comprising Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, EBSIEC and Ebonyi State House of Assembly, overriding the decision to conduct the council polls.

Firm builds mega stations

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AGOS—Oando Mar keting, a subsidiary of Oando Plc, has expanded its frontiers with the rolling out of mega stations in Lagos and other parts of the country.

The company is a major player in the downstream sector of the oil and gas industry The new marketing initiative, which will lead to the building of 50 mega stations across the country, will not only help the oil marketing company to consolidate its leadership position in the market, but also guarantee consumers easy access to its products as well as raising the bar in the industry to international standard.

Chief Operating Officer of the company, Mrs. Olaposi Williams, who dropped the hint in Lagos, explained that the company would build 10 mega stations every year within the next five years across major cities in the country.

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Police smash kidnap syndicate in Imo zRescue victim with the aid of villagers

BY CHIDI NKWOPARA

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WERRI—IMO State Po lice Command, has with the assistance of villagers, smashed a gang of dare-devil kidnappers that recently abducted Mrs. Agnes Onwuzuruike, from her Umuduruaro-Agbaja, Ehime Mbano local council area country home.

Vanguard investigations revealed that the woman was kidnapped from her home by the hoodlums but later saved miraculously by a twist of luck.

A villager, who spoke on strict grounds of anonymity, told Vanguard that “the vehicle used during the operation by the gangsters broke down along the Agbaja-Umuelemai road.”

It was also gathered that faced with this development, the hoodlums forced their victim out of the vehicle and moved her into the nearby bush.

“The hoodlums were still working out how to effect repairs on their vehicle till dawn. The presence of the strange vehicle in the area attracted strong suspicion, especially as news of the kidnap had spread like wild fire,” the witness recounted.

Consequently, the villagers raised alarm, which attracted young men in the community and the police was quickly alerted.

“Since the vehicle they saw fit the description of the one used by the kidnappers, the villagers strongly suspected that the hood-

Enugu LG poll: Onyemaechi emerges PDP candidate for Oji River

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JI—ERSTWHILE youth leader of Oji River Local Government, Mr. Ikechukwu Onyemaechi, has emerged as Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, chairmanship candidate for Oji River Local Government in the November 2 Enugu State council elections.

Ikechukwu, who most recently served as interim deputy national organising secretary of the PDP, was voted by the 134 delegates present at the primaries.

Assuring the party of victory at the poll, Ikechukwu, who promised to run an inclusive government, said he would key into the four-point agenda of Governor Sullivan Chime in ensuring the people of Oji River enjoyed the dividends of democracy.

Speaking further, he thanked other aspirants for their sportsmanship, the stakeholders for their supportand the security agencies for their orderly conduct during the primaries.

lums and their victim must be somewhere within the vicinity,” the witness said.

It was also gathered that a manhunt for the fleeing gangsters paid off as one of the hoodlums was arrested in the bush.

“His confessional statement led to the arrest of two other members of the gang. The suspects were later moved to the state Police Headquarters, Owerri, for further investigation,” said the witness.

Speaking to the early callers to the family home, the husband of the victim, Nze Livinus Onwuzuruike, thanked God for saving his wife from the ordeal and the police for acting very fast when the matter was reported to them.

SIGNING: Speaker of ECOWAS Parliament, Senator Ike Ekweremadu (right) and the Coordinator, West African Region, Friedrich Ebert Stiftung Foundation, Felix Henkel signing an MOU between the ECOWAS Parliament and the Foundation in Abuja, yesterday.

Imo govt threatens contractors The governor said: “Any contractor that fails to execute his WERRI—IMO State Gov job after receiving money for ernment has warned contrac- such project, will be handed over tors handling road projects in the to EFCC and other anti-corrupstate that it would not hesitate to tion agencies.”

The governor equally warned hand those who fail to complete their jobs to the Economic and Fi- that his administration would not nancial Crimes commission, spare any contractor found to be indulged in any foul play in the EFCC. Governor Rochas Okorocha, who execution of the projects.

“The era of contractors running read the riot act while addressing the contractors at Government away with people’s money after House, Owerri, also promised that mobilization is gone for good. his administration will complete all Such contractors are advised to the projects it started before the end retrace their steps now or be prepared to face the music,” of his tenure.

BY CHIDI NKWOPARA

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Okorocha warned.

He described himself as the only governor that awarded contracts without asking for 10 percent, stressing that no contractor had any good reason not to deliver.

The governor promised to release more funds to the contractors which, he said ,would enable them complete their work.

Although Okorocha did not give any detail, he, however, said that “most of the foreign contractors that duped the state are now languishing in jail.”

Defence Ministry: Group faults Jonathan on Maku

BY JOHNBOSCO AGBAKWURU

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BUJA—HUMAN Rights Writers Association of Nigeria, HURIWA, has faulted President Goodluck Jonathan for appointing Minister of Information, Mr. Labaran Maku, as the supervising Minister of Defence, alleging that he lacked the credentials to occupy the position.

HURIWA said it was wrong for Maku to be saddled with the responsibility of overseeing the affairs of the Defence Ministry because of his alleged role in the ongoing violence in his home state of Nasarawa, especially as the independent judicial commission of inquiry constituted to investigate the crisis was yet to issue him a clean bill of health.

President Jonathan had last Wednesday relieved nine ministers, including Minister of State for Denfence, of their membership of Federal Executive Council, FEC, and the Information Minister was

directed to supervise the affairs of the ministry, pending the appointment of a substantive minister.

But the group in a statement

by National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, in Abuja, asked the President to desist from actions that might be

misconstrued to graphically paint his administration as being insensitive to the feelings and complaints of a section of Nigerian people, no matter how speculative or emotional such sentiments might be without clearly justifiable and superior logic.

Maritime Watch honours Amosun

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AGOS—OGUN State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, will be conferred with the Maritime Watch governor of the year award, on Sunday, September 22, in Lagos.

A statement by Mr. Shola Mekusi, Publisher, Maritime Watch newspapers, said Senator Amosun was given the recognition due to his landmark achievements in road and infrastructure development of Ogun State.

The occasion which will be the

12th anniversary and 6th award of Maritime Watch newspapers has the National President, Association of Licensed Customs Agents, ANCLA, Prince Olayiwola Shittu as chairman of the occasion, while special guests of honour are Mallam Habib Abdullahi, MD, NPA; Mr. Patrick Akpobolokemi, DG, NIMASA; Comptroller Ekpowei Edike, CAC, Apapa Command and Comptroller Tajudeen Olarenwaju, CAC, PTML Area Command, among others.

Vanguard , TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013 —39

VISIT: Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State (4th from right) in a group photograph when the President General and Exco members of Agbor Community visited the governor in Asaba. Photo; Henry Unini

CONDOLENCE: Akwa Ibom State Governor, Godswill Akpabio, presenting condolence message to Pastor Kufre Obot, during the burial of his father, late Elder Emmanuel Obot, at Ikot Ekpene.

RECEPTION: From left, Mr. Ambby Okuhor, Hon. Joel Onowokpo, Chairman, Delta State Board of Internal Revenue; Dr. Ugboma, Chief Omojefe, Part World Chairman, and others, at the reception of over 700 decampees from APC and DPP to PDP, in Isoko South, Delta State.

MEETING: From left, factional Chairman Oyo PDP, Alhaji Kunmi Mustapha; former Minster of Sports, Professor Taoheed Adedoja; Minister of State, FCT, Abuja Oloye Jumoke Akinjide, and former Oyo State Governor, Otunba Christopher Alao-Akala, observing a minute silence for late Chief Olusegun Agagu, former Governor of Ondo State, at the PDP Stakeholders/Leaders meeting, in Ibadan, weekend. Photo: Dare Fasube

BRIEFING: From Left: Mr. Segun Fayose, Head, Public Relations, MultiChoice Nigeria; Mr. Niyi Oyeleke, Production Manager, SuperSport; Mr. Martin Mabutho, General Manager, Marketing and Sales, MultiChoice Nigeria, and Mr. Tijani Umar, President, Nigeria Basketball Federation, during the 2013 DStv Basketball League Championship Final press briefing, at the SWAN secretariat,National Stadium, Surulere. Photo: Kehinde Gbadamosi

PROMO: Segun Apata (left), winner of N50,000 in the Star Win & Shine promo, receiving his dummy cheque from MC Eazy, the compere, at the Star Win & Shine party, at O'Jez Bar

INAUGURATION: From left, Senator Bode Olajumoke, chatting with Dr Esther Udueh, Chairperson, National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non Formal Education, and Engr. Damien Udueli, at the inauguration of Governing Boards/ Council of Parastatals, Agencies and Institutions of the Ministry of Education, in Abuja. Photo: Gbemiga Olamikan

VISIT: From left, Taiwo Otiti, Country Manager, IBM Corporation; Virginia Rometty, Global Chief Executive Officer, IBM Corporation; Funke Opeke, Chief Executive Officer, Main One, and Kazeem Oladepo, Company Secretary, Main One, during IBM Corporation's visit to Main One, in Lagos.

INAUGURATION: From left, Oba Kole Ojutalayo, Larooka of Wanikin Town, Ile-Ife; Dr. Olatunji Braithwaite, celebrant and his wife, Dr. Grace, during the inaugural edition of Annual Tunji Braithwaite Birthday Symposium, in celebration of his 80th birthday, with the theme: 'The Rising Threat of Instability in Nigeria, Domestic and International Response,' organised by Tunji Braithwaite Foundation, in Oregun, Ikeja, Lagos.

Photo: Bunmi Azeez

40 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013

Call Clark, Asari-Dokubo to order, Tsav, Shuluwa tell Jonathan

PDP crisis: Gov Orji slams opposition parties

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OVERNOR Theodore Orji of Abia State, yesterday, said that the opposition were crying more than the bereaved as a result of the recent crisis in the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP. Governor Orji said the opposition can now leak their wounds as the purpoted crisis had been settled by the national leadership of the PDP. In a statement by his Special Assistant on Public Communication, Mr. Ben Onyechere, the governor said: “The simple fact that the opposition parties are agitated and concerned about the challenges of the PDP is a pointer that they are hinging their future on the expectation that the party may breakup.

“The random is insinuation and instigation from known chronic opposition quarters over matters that are internal to the party, smack up lack of direction of their leadership whose only hope of survival is to pry in troubled waters.

“It is laughable that their only manifesto is focusing on misunderstanding between party members which is an indication that they are building on sandy soil."

Butchers hail Lagos govt over illegal abattoir

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HE Chairman of Lagos State Butchers Association, LSBA, Alhaji Raufu Elewide, has lauded the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives official on the plan to crackdown on illegal abattoir operators. The arrest of some butchers who were operating illegal abattoir at Otto Awori Local Council Development Area was a step in the right direction, Chairman said.

The positive moves to checkmate operators of illegal abattoirs by the state government has portrayed the seriousness to flush out bad eggs among the butchers.

The chairman however, urged the butchers to cooperate with State government to make abattoirs more hygienic and habitable on health ground in the Senate.

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BY PETER DURU

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COMMISSIONING—From left: Commander, 237 base service group, Nigeria Air Force, Air Commodore Sani Zakari, Governor of Niger State, Dr Mu'azu Aliyu, Commander, Quick Response Force, Air Commodore Ben Chiobi and Director General of the Niger State Road Maintenance Agency, Engr. Umar Sani, during the commissioning of a 400 metre road and culvert constructed by the state government at the Air Force base, Minna.

My leadership provided national policy on climate change — Mailafia

BY FUNMI OLASUPO BUJA—OUTGOING Minister of Environment, Mrs. Hadiza Ibrahim Mailafia, has said that the ministry under her leadership provided national policies on climate change and Great Green Wall, GGW. Mailafia disclosed this while handing over the affairs of the ministry to the overseeing minister, the Minister of State, Niger Delta, Architect Darius Ishaku.

She said: “The ministry has worked with the ministry of Health in overseeing that the national health care waste management takes off, and have also flagship projects on National Erosion and

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Water shed Management project, NEWMAP, in conjunction with World Bank, Great Green Wall and clean stove programme.

“A number of international engagements have been scheduled for this year and that the President has approved the national summit on Environment to hold in October.”

She thanked staff of the ministry for their support and urged that same support be accorded the overseeing minister.

Minister of State, Niger Delta, Arc. Darius Ishaku, said “today

marked a new milestone in the Ministry of Environment because in life, there are entrances and exits.”

He thanked the out-gone minister for her service to the nation and cited her very remarkable participation in RioBrazil.

He promised to put in his best and thanked the staff for giving Mailafia support and prayed same be extended to him.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Taiye Haruna, thanked the out-gone minister for her contribution to the ministry in particular and the nation at large.

Jigawa people living in abject poverty — APC chieftain

BY ALIYU DANGIDA

R

INGIM, JIGAWA— DEFEATED governorship candidate in the 2011 general elections under the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN, Alhaji Badaru Abubakar Talamiz, has sympathized with the masses of Jigawa State for finding themselves in abject poverty under the present administration of Governor Sule Lamido.

Speaking with newsmen, after formal presentation of All Progressives Congress, APC, candidate for the forthcoming byeelection for a vacant seat assembly in Ringim constituency, Talamiz decried the disparity in the gap between the infrastructure development in Jigawa and poor human development in the state He said nobody could deny the fact that the PDP government in Jigawa State had put in place physical infrastructure but noted that the people were still wallowing in poverty due to neglect of

education, agriculture and

B

AUCHI—BAUCHI State chapter of the People Democratic Party, PDP, yesterday, pledged its support for Bamanga Tukur’s leadership of the party.

It also assured that no threat by rival faction of the party would make it hand over power to the opposition.

Assistant Publicity Secretary of the party in the state, Alhaji Bashir Bukar Rimin, stated this while speaking with newsmen in company of party supporters at the secretariat of Nigerian Union of Journalist, NUJ, in Bauchi.

He said: “We have only one

Umukoro rallies support for Dafinone

other key sectors.

Bauchi PDP declares support for Tukur

BY SUZAN EDEH

AKURDI—AS stakeholders of the ruling People’s Democratic Party, PDP, intensify efforts to resolve the crisis rocking the party, a founding father of the party, Chief Abu King Shuluwa, has urged President Goodluck Jonathan to tame the duo of Chief Edwin Clark and Asari Dokubo from making inciting and inflammatory statements.

This came on the heels of a similar statement yesterday in Makurdi by former Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Alhaji Abubakar Tsav, who also cautioned that the duo should be called to order.

Tsav said: “Our soldiers fought to keep Nigeria as one, during which many lost their lives, where was Asari Dokubo? He cannot and should never destroy a house which he did not partake in building.

“Asari Dokubo has no monopoly of violence, unfortunately Nigeria is a country where the enforcement of law is discriminatory in favour of government and party thugs; that is why anyone on the payroll of government can threaten to unleash bloodbath in the country and security agencies are doing nothing about such threats."

PDP and there is no way you can divide it into two unless you want to tamper with the constitution of the party.

“Creating a faction in the PDP is unconstitutional because when you become a cardcarrying member of the party, you swear an oath to be loyal and abide by the constitution of the party.

“So, it is a gross violation of party rules to create a faction.

The PDP in Bauchi is totally against the faction at the national level of the party, hence we do not recognize any other PDP apart from the Bamanga Tukur-led leadership of the party.”.

L

AGOS—NATIONAL Publicity Secretary of Urhobo Political Initiative, Mr. Umukoro, yesterday urged Urhobos to give Ede Dafinone a chance to represent them in the senatorial by-election in Delta Central.

Umukoro who spoke when members of the Urhobo Professional Group for Sustainable Development paid a courtesy visit to the National Convener of Urhobo Political Initiative, Dr. Dafe Akpocha, at Agbarho, said the Urhobos have laboured too much and that the President should appoint a minister from the ethnic group to encourage us to vote for him in 2015.

Onokpasa who said the future of the Urhobos would depend on the senatorial bye election enjoined Urhobos to see Ede Dafinone as an acceptable material for the senatorial bye-election.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013—41

C M Y K

42 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013

C M Y K

Vanguard, TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 17, 2013 — 43

Naval base shooting: Obama spits fire as gunmen kill 12 U

S President Barack Obama yesterday pledged to do everything possible to make sure whoever was responsible for the attack was held responsible. No fewer than 12 people were reportedly killed yesterday while several others were injured when four suspected shooters went on shooting spree inside Washington Navy building.

Obama said the victims were “courageous Americans” who knew about the risks of serving overseas, but would not have expected such “unimaginable violence” at home.

At press time. Police were searching the Navy complex to track down the gunmen involved in the

•US soldiers mount search for the gunmen in the Washington shooting yesterday.

attack . Police chief Cathy Lanier said one shooter had been killed and that two other suspects - a white and a black male were still at large.

At least 12 people have been killed in a mass

shooting at the Washington Navy Yard, officials have said.

At least four others including a police officer were injured, officials said. Shots were reported at the early hours of

yesterday, and dozens of armed police officers converged on a building at the naval installation.

A gunman was killed at the scene and police are searching for two other “potential” gunmen,

Washington Police Chief Cathy Lanier said.

Officials are searching the area surrounding the Navy Yard in south-east Washington DC for two additional suspects in military-style uniform, Ms Lanier said.

“The big concern for us right now is that we potentially have two other shooters that we have not located,” she said.

She described one as a white male in a tan shortsleeve military-style outfit and beret hat. He was last seen carrying a handgun.

A black male 40-50 years of age and wearing

Briefs Turkey downs Syrian helicopter

UN report confirms use of sarin in Syrian attack T U N chemical investigators yesterday confirmed the use of sarin gas in an August 21 poison gas attack in the suburbs of Damascus, noting that weather conditions at the time ensured the maximum number of people were killed.

As expected, the report does not say who launched the attack in the rebel-held Damascus suburb of Ghouta. “On the basis of the evidence obtained during the investigation of the Ghouta incident, the conclusion is that chemical weapons have been used in the ongoing conflict between the parties

•Ban Ki-moon

•Obama

in the Syrian Arab Republic, also against civilians, including children, on a relatively large scale,” said the report by chief U.N. investigator Ake Sellstrom of Sweden.

“The United Nations

Mission has now confirmed, unequivocally and objectively, that chemical weapons have been used in Syria,” U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon told the Security Council.

Contest presidency, Groups urges Gen. el-Sissi A group of Egyptian professionals, lawyers and ex-army officers yesterday launched a campaign to collect signatures urging the country’s military chief to run for president, just two months after he ousted the first elected leader.

Organizer Rifai Nasrallah, a judge, said the goal of the petition titled “complete your good deed” is to make Gen. Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi give in to popular will and run for president, by collecting more than 30 million signatures around Egypt.

“We are here today because we want you a leader, a chief, and a president for Egypt,” Nasrallah told the launch gathering at a hotel in Cairo. Addressing el-Sissi, he said: “Don’t forget C M Y K

that you told the Egyptian people to ask and you will respond. Here we are asking you to be president of Egypt.”

The petition is modeled after Tamarod, or Rebel, a campaign which spearheaded protests against Islamist President Mo-

•Assad Ban said on Friday that Syrian President Bashar alAssad “has committed many crimes against humanity,” though he did not say whether it was Assad’s forces or rebels who were behind the Ghouta attack. He added that Assad would be held to account for his crimes.

It is not immediately clear whether any of the details in the report suggested culpability. Sellstrom’s mandate is limited to investigating the facts, not assigning blame.

…army storms Islamist-held town

E

GYPTIAN troops yesterday stormed a town in central part of the country held for the past month by hardline Islamists, arresting dozens accused of burning churches and terrorising residents, officials said.

Soldiers and police entered Delga in Minya province just after dawn, firing tear gas and searching homes for suspects, a security official told AFP.

By Monday afternoon, 56 arrests had been made and weapons seized, the official said.

“The situation was brought under control in

half an hour and, thank God, there were no casualties,” Minya governor Salah Ziada said.

All 32 roads into the town of 120,000 people were sealed off and a day-

time curfew imposed as authorities regained Delga, held for 31 days by loyalists of ousted Islamist president Mohamed Morsi, state news agency MENA said.

Rwandans vote in parliamentary polls

R

WANDANS were voting yesterday in parliamentary polls seen as a shoo-in for President Paul Kagame’s Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF), the party that has held sway over the central African state since ending the genocide 20 years ago.

Voters cast ballots in

polling booths that in the capital were draped in the sky blue, green and yellow of the Rwandan flag, with some playing music .

Some six million people are eligible to cast their ballots before polling stations close in mid-afternoon.

olive kit was seen carrying a long gun and is also being sought.

Ms Lanier said 12 people were deceased. Washington Mayor Vincent Gray said four people were wounded in the shooting.

One police officer was shot in the legs and other police officers were injured in other ways.

At least three people including the shot police officer were brought to Washington Hospital Center by helicopter with “severe” gunshot wounds, said chief medical officer Janis Orlowski.

URKEY said it had downed a Syrian military helicopter on Monday, accusing the neighbouring nation of violating its airspace in the tense border region, amid a new international diplomatic push to end Syria’s civil war.

The Syrian MI-17 helicopter was detected two kilometres (1.2 miles) inside Turkish airspace and shot down five minutes later after failing to heed warnings, Deputy Prime Minister Bulent Arinc told reporters.

“It was continuously warned by our air defence

but as the violation continued, it fell on Syrian soil in the afternoon having been hit by missiles from our planes,” which took off from their base in the eastern province of Malatya, he added.

Arinc said there was no information about the fate of its crew because the helicopter fell on Syrian soil.

The downing of the helicopter comes at a time of heightened diplomatic activity to resolve the Syrian crisis, which has spillover effects across the region.

Iran states readiness for nuclear deal

I

RANIAN nuclear chief Ali Akbar Salehi said Monday that both sides had to approach nuclear talks in good faith to create a “win-win” result.

But he said the chances of progress were improved by the unity among Iran’s new political leadership over what it sought in the next

round of talks and what it was prepared to give the world powers.

He did not go into detail but Iran wants an end to the economic and political sanctions it faces over fears it is progressing to nuclear weapons ability. Tehran denies wanting such arms, saying its nuclear program is peaceful.

British Court ruling sparks debate on hijab

A

British judge ruled yesterday that a Muslim woman could not give evidence at her trial wearing a full-face veil, sparking debate about whether Britain should follow other European countries and ban Islamic veils in schools and public places.

Senior politicians played down the likelihood of a ban after one minister said the coalition government should consider forbidding full-face

veils, or niqabs, in schools, a measure that is gaining support from some members of parliament.

“My own view, very strongly held, is that we shouldn’t end up like other countries issuing edicts or laws from parliament telling people what they should or should not wear,” said Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg, leader of the coalition’s junior centrist party, the Liberal Democrats.

44—VANGUARD, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013

PDP crisis alters political calculations (1)

BY VINCENT UJUMADU

I

F the on –going crisis in the Anambra State branch of the Peoples Democratic Party PDP, over who should be its flag bearer for the November 16 election is not resolved urgently, the party may make itself a bystander in the governorship race.

For now, supporters of the party in the state are confused and it is therefore not surprising that many of them have become willing tools for swelling campaign rally grounds of other political parties.

A typical example was the flag off of the LP governorship campaign in Onitsha on Thursday where many former members of PDP were adorning Ifeanyi Ubah’s uniform and caps and directing affairs.

Sheep without shepherd While the other major party contenders namely, All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, All Progressives Congress, APC, and Labour Party, LP, are seriously mobilizing for the election with their candidates making great inroads in the state, supporters of PDP are behaving like a sheep without the shepherd.

Many of them say they have become more confused with the unfolding scenario, especially with two candidates – Tony Nwoye and Senator Andy Uba – laying claim to the ticket of the party.

State chairman of the party The latest in the PDP drama is that a Federal High Court sitting in Port Harcourt, Rivers State has declared that Senator Andy Uba remains the PDP candidate for the election and that his crony, Chief Ejike Oguebego, should remain the state chairman of the party. The court ordered the Prince Ken Emeakayi-led PDP in Anambra State to maintain the status quo, pending the final decision of the court.

In the ruling handed by Justice H.A Nganjiwa, the court also directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to identify with the Oguebego group that produced Uba as the authentic governorship candidate of the PDP. Political calculations: After the primaries of the various political parties, the picture was that Tony Nwoye from Anambra North senatorial zone emerged for PDP in the primary supervised by the national leadership of the party, Willy Obiano also from Anambra North emerged for APGA, while Senator Chris Ngige from Anambra Central and Chief Ifeanyi Ubah from Anambra C M Y K

South emerged for APC and LP respectively.

Senator Andy Uba, another contender for the PDP ticket is from Anambra South.

When the Alhaji Bamanga Tukur leadership of PDP declared Nwoye as the party’s flag bearer, the fear in the camp of Willy Obiano of APGA was that unless the people of Anambra North were persuaded to dump the PDP candidate on election day, votes from the area are likely to be shared between PDP and APGA, thereby giving Ngige and Ifeanyi Ubah some kind of advantage as they are the major candidates in the other two senatorial zones.

However, if PDP dumps Nwoye and gives the ticket to Senator Uba, the people of Anambra North would heave a sigh of relief that their block votes would go to their own son, Obiano.

On the other hand, if eventually Uba gets the ticket for PDP, the worry would shift to Anambra South as he (Uba) and LP’s Ubah are likely to share the votes from the area. Uba is from the Aguata section of the senatorial zone, while Ubah is from Nnewi section of the same zone. While it would seem that Senator Ngige is in the world of his own in his Anambra Central, the truth is that he has Governor Peter Obi to contend with in the zone.

From all indications, Obi is not just waiting to hand over to anybody that would emerge winner after the November 16 election, but he wants to make sure that he hands over to a trusted person who would not rock the boat after his eight years of picking the bits and pieces of what was left of Anambra State after the unfortunate years between 1999 and 2006 when intra-party crisis in PDP led to the destruction of lives and government property worth

billions of naira.

Indeed, were it not for Obi’s clamour that power should shift to Anambra North after his tenure and going further to ensure that somebody from the zone picked the ticket of his party, the situation would have remained as it had always been in the previous elections where the best Anambra North usually got was either the deputy governor or speaker of the House of Assembly.

For instance, Dr. Chinwoke Mbadinuju who governed the state from 1999 to 2003 had his deputy from Anambra North and when Ngige mounted the saddle in 2003, he chose his deputy from Anambra South in the person of Dr. Okey Udeh, with the speaker of the House of Assembly coming from Anambra North.

Recovery of mandate When Mr. Peter Obi, who is from Anambra Central recovered his mandate after three years in court, he worked with Dame Virgy Etiaba who is from Anambra South and for his second term, he chose Mr. Emeka Sibeudu also from Anambra South, while the speaker of the House of Assembly, Mrs. Chinwe Nwaebili, is from Anambra North.

Dr. Andy Uba, who governed for 17 days in 2007 before the Supreme Court stopped him, also chose his deputy from Anambra North. This is why the people of Anambra North see 2013 election as their best opportunity to produce the governor of the state for the first time since the creation of Anambra State. Before the primaries of the political parties, stakeholders from Anambra North held several meetings

warning their people not to accept to be campaign coordinators or deputies for candidates from Anambra South and Central and so far, it had been obeyed.

For instance, it was gathered that Ifeanyi Ubah desperately wanted to choose his deputy from Anambra North, but because those approached for the position declined, he settled for Dr. Emeka Eze from Ukpo, Dunukofia in Anambra Central.

There are also indications that Ngige will choose his deputy from Anambra South as he did during his first outing in 2003.

Willy Obiano of APGA has already chosen Dr. Emeka Okeke from Enugwu Ukwu in Anambra Central as his running mate.

With these running mates coming from Anambra Central, the implication is that the area would be up for grabs by the various political parties contesting the election and this may not be good for Ngige who is from the area.

Perhaps one of the greatest issues that would determine the outcome of the election is the political party cohesion. Apart from LP, the other three parties – PDP, APGA and APC have some issues to sort out before the

election. Like in the previous elections, the signs are there that aggrieved members of political parties may work against their parties.

Take PDP for instance; if Senator Uba finally gets the ticket, it is not likely that the national leadership and the Kenneth Emeakayi –led group of the party would stick out their neck to support him.

This is because while most of the erstwhile governorship aspirants were together and obeying the guidelines stipulated by the party for the conduct of the primaries, Senator Uba and his family members, with Chris Uba as the arrow head, stayed away and held its primary with the senator as the only contestant. It was felt initially that the Uba family was wasting its time, but when the tunes from the INEC began to sound in their favour, it became clear that the family was not acting in isolation.

The climax was the recent ruling of the Federal High Court in Port Harcourt making Uba the authentic candidate of the party for the election. If all the former governorship aspirants in the state refuse to work with Uba, he may not find things easy.

To be concluded tomorrow

Excitement as Obiano flags off campaign

E

XCITEMENT is almost palpable in Anambra State as candidate of the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA), Chief Willie Obiano, flags off his governorship campaign. The exercise is billed to commence today in Awka, the capital.

Obianao’s emergence on the scene, according to political analysts in Anambra State, has further raised the bar. Watchers of political events in Anambra believe that the contest is essentially a two-horse race between the ex-banker and Senator Chris Ngige. Not much is expected of other candidates, they argue.

Of all the candidates bracing up for the November 16

•Obi

governorship election, Obiano is considered as one of the most “outstanding.”

Unlike others, Obiano is the political dark-horse, untainted by the political corrosion in Nigeria and the greed that sounded the death-knell on many career bankers.

His years in Fidelity Bank, where he played a formidable role as the Executive Director and Head of Business Banking, were the bank’s most buoyant years as his financial wizardry and vast contacts shored up the bank’s multiple forays in the domestic and international financial markets for funding.

Obiano is fondly remembered by his erstwhile colleagues in the bank as an ebullient and amiable leader who knew when to deploy the carrot and the stick to maximum effect.

Part of what stands Obiano apart is that he is from the oilbearing Aguleri in Anambra North Senatorial District, which Governor Peter Obi has adjudged best suited to produce his successor.

Grassroots politicians and kingmakers in Anambra North see him as one of their own, because of his generosity of spirit and philanthropy.

VANGUARD, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013—45

PDP crisis ’ll not affect Senate—Ndoma-Egba THE National Assembly will resume today after its vacation amid fears that the crisis in the ruling Peoples Democratic Party may affect the leadership of the Senate as a result of its alleged loyalty to the embattled PDP National Chairman, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur. In this interview, Senate Leader, Chief Victor Ndoma-Egba, SAN, says the crisis will not in any way affect the leadership of the upper legislative body. He also speaks on the expectations of the people from the Senate and the best way to resolve the PDP crisis. Excerpts:

BY JOHNBOSCO AGBAKWURU

E

XPECTATIONS of the people There are a number of bills that impact on strengthening governance that are pending, we will prioritize them and take them. We have the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) that is outstanding. We also expect that the budget will be presented during this period; if it is presented early we intend to treat it expeditiously.

We also have the constitutional review process to conclude.

You know the Senate passed its own version and the House also passed its own version, so we need to do conference on the two versions to come out with a harmonized position. We also intend to look at the Electoral Act again to see how we can further strengthen the electoral processes in the country.

Electoral processes

•Ndoma-Egba other.

For me the question we must ask to determine whether or not to grant autonomy is: are local governments federating units, if they are federating units, then they are entitled to autonomy, but if they are not federating units, then I doubt if the issue of autonomy can arise. I think the Senate position is different from the House position, so at the end of the day we will go for conferencing and we will resolve the issue one way or the other.

PDP crisis and its effect on the leadership of the National Assembly Well, first let me concede the point that any crisis within the PDP will have repercussions on the polity generally for the simple reason that the PDP is the party in government.

Whatever crisis we have, will certainly have consequences on the polity for better or for worse.

But having said so let me also remind us that crisis is the feature of any active political party.

Any party that is active is

likely to experience crisis now and then, and it is crisis that indicates that a party is alive which means that different ideas, different tendencies are being generated at every point.

So, if you don’t have crisis in a party, it either means that the party is dead or the party is owned by a single individual.

But when you see crisis it means that the party is democratic, the party is open and people are free to state their views on every issue.

But having said so, let me also remind us that from its formation in 1998, PDP has always had one crisis or the other.

If we recall, not too long ago, the President and the Vice President were elected on the same ticket, the Vice President defected to another party and remained as Vice President, so we had a situation where people who came in on the same ticket, ended up the President on one ticket and the vice President on the other ticket and the Vice President continued, so I don’t see any

crisis that can be more than that scenario and the party not only survived, but still went ahead to win subsequent elections.

I believe that the same way that we have resolved our crisis internally, the current crisis

,

We are also expecting as we resume a very important visitor, that is the Speaker of the Chinese Parliament he will be arriving on the day we resume, so, that is 17th, on the 18th he will have a bilateral talk with the Senate President and the Speaker and also pay a visit to the headquarters of the PDP. Eessentially, in the early part of our resumption, we will be devoted to extending the necessary courtesies to our August visitor, so in summary that is a peep into our activities as we resume.

On controversies trailing Constitutional amendment I can’t preempt the situation but you know the issue on local government autonomy, people are passionate on both sides.

I remember chairing the South-South zonal public hearing on constitutional amendment November last year, I recall that those in the local government system were very passionate for local government autonomy, but teachers were also passionate against it because from their experience they noticed that usually they are hardly paid each time local government had autonomy, so we had two sides of the divide, each side being as passionate as the

immemorial is to stabilize the polity in times of crisis and I believe that this time around, the Senate will once again rise to the occasion of stabilizing the country in spite of the current tensions in PDP. I don’t see the current tension in the PDP affecting the leadership of the Senate because the Senate is made up of statesmen who appreciate their historic role in stabilizing the polity and they will not do anything that will create instability.

On the chances of the PDP in 2015 elections with the crisis and the registration of APC, PDM The problem in the PDP does not affect the structures of the party.

We still have our penetration right down to every ward in this country, to every local government, to every state. The fact that we have a crisis does not automatically translate into ward structures for the opposition. The opposition still has to establish itself in every nook and cranny of this country, so, it is like we lawyers say, depending on the weakness of your opponent's case instead of the strength of your own case.

The fact that we have a crisis has not changed our structure and has not changed the penetration of the opposition, so I don’t see how the opposition will benefit from this crisis that has not effectively altered the fact that we exist in every ward of this country, even in the states that the PDP is not in power.

Best way to resolve the PDP crisis I believe that concessions will have to be made; both sides,

Let me concede the point that any crisis within the PDP will have repercussions on the polity generally for the simple reason that the PDP is the party in government

would be resolved. The beauty about the PDP is the strength of its internal dispute resolution mechanism and its strength to survive these crises.

I believe that the strength will also come to play this time around. But whether or not that is going to affect the leadership of the National Assembly, I can speak for the Senate. Like I said earlier on, no matter the crisis we have in the PDP, it is likely to impact on the polity generally.

And the historical role of Senate, not just in Nigeria but all over the world from time

,

certainly must have minimum positions and maximum positions, so I believe in between these two positions there will be mid-way for both sides.

Advice to PDP leadership Politics is about inclusiveness and not about exclusion. Politics is like the Biblical good Shepherd that will leave 99 sheep and go after one lost sheep. You must recover every member of your fold that is leaving or threatening to leave, that is what politics is all about.

And I am sure that those currently in the middle of the Continued from page 46

46—VANGUARD, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013

BY EMMAN OVUAKPORIE

A

S the Seventh Assem bly prepares to round up in less than two years from now, issues that may disrupt its smooth sailing since inception seems to have reared its ugly face from the hiccups in the ruling Peoples Democratic Party, PDP. If the Speaker of the house of Representatives, Hon Aminu Waziri Tambuwal had been sleeping with one eye closed, now he may have to ensure that he sleeps with both eyes opened.

One of such major issues is the emergence of the new PDP bloc within the House.

The new bloc consisting of mainly young and energetic professionals may turn the House into a war zone as proceedings kick start today.

The bloc that initially had 58 members who on September 3 openly declared for the Alhaji Kawu Baraje led faction of PDP had boasted that by resumption today the number in their fold must have risen to 125 out of the 208 original members of the old PDP bloc.

Drums of war What this translates into is that debates on the floor of the House in active collaboration with 137 All Progressives Congress, APC may make the House ungovernable by the Tambuwalled leadership because 262 voices against 98 voices is a clear victory for the new PDP on the floor of the House on any issue.

Tambuwal and his colleagues need to sit tight to hold the fort for Nigerians as the drums of war starts today.

Some Reps who spoke to Vanguard anonymously described the situation as unfortunate. A Rep from one of

PDP crisis: Fears of spill over reign as House resumes the North Central states said, “the old PDP had murdered sleep because we are ready to treat all issues based on merit and nothing else. ”On every issue we shall go the extra mile and ensure we screen, scrutinise and plug all loopholes particularly executive bills that are always ill-prepared. ”We will not stop at that we will inch towards changing the present leadership by sweeping all old PDP principal officers from office as we have a clear majority with APC giving us all the necessary support.”

Another Rep from the North West told Vanguard that “most of us tacitly support the mission and aspirations of the new PDP in the House but we are still watching the unfolding drama.

Particularly the way and manner the old PDP is going about the resolution of the crisis. ”So far all the wrong steps have been taken via the deliberate sacking of ministers from the states of the seven governors involved in this our just cause.

“Some of us are patiently waiting on the sideline, as soon the old PDP digs its grave we will properly assist in burying its coffin.”

A Rep from the South West zone also said “all we are waiting for is our resumption on Tuesday and for the first time in the history of this institution we shall carry out our oversight function like never before. We will ensure that every kobo allocated to MDAs are well accounted for in this 2013 Appropriation Act. “ Constitution Amendment

•Tambuwal Another burning issue is that of the 2013 Constitution Amendment bill awaiting harmonisation of both legislative houses. The adhoc committee led by the Deputy Speaker, Hon Emeka Ihedioha had tirelessly worked towards its successful conclusion. For almost 13 hours the lawmakers considered the bill despite hiccups from the electronic device that repeatedly failed during its consideration.

Ihedioha had repeatedly told Nigerians that “we did the best for Nigeria. We harkened to their voices and the resultant effect is

what you see in our report” Whether the constitution amendment will sail through depends largely on the agreement of both Houses.

Petroleum Industry Bill, PIB This bill died in the 6th Assembly after lawmakers had discussed all the relevant clauses.

Chairman of the adhoc committee on PIB, Hon Isiaka Bawa in a chat recently declared that the bill may not die if all the grey areas are properly ironed out. ”The grey areas the multinational oil companies complained about is the area of

royalties and payment to host communities. If we properly streamline some of these grey areas I do not see the PIB dying in the 7th Assembly,” he said.

Re-constitution of committees: Despite the lacklustre performance of some committee chairmen, the Tambuwal-led House is not favourably disposed to dropping some of the poorperforming chairmen Spokesman of the Reps, Hon Zakari Mohammed when contacted on the likelihood of dropping some chairmen, said, “nobody in his right senses would contemplate that for now.“ Meanwhile, Zakari during a briefing last Friday said “all outstanding committee reports must be submitted by the chairmen of substantive and adhoc committees for appropriate actions. Also we shall strengthen our oversight functions to the hilt without minding whose ox is gored.“ From all indications the House is set for a showdown with the executive arm of government.

The Tambuwal magic wand: The much rumoured frosty relationship between the Reps and the executive may assume a larger than life status. Tambuwal in the last two years ably supported by his Deputy, Ihedioha had weathered all the storms and came out unscathed.

The question on the lips of most political pundits is whether the Tambuwal magic wand would remain active. All these would unfold as the House resumes today.

PDP crisis ’ll not affect Senate —Ndoma-Egba Continues from page 45 negotiations appreciate the need to recover everybody and retain everybody under the big and strong umbrella.

On likelihood of aggrieved PDP members , G-7 and their supporters decamping to opposition parties if crisis is not resloved Well, as far as I am concerned that will be an academic question because I don’t see that happening in the first place. Like I said, one of the strengths of PDP is its ability to internally resolve its disputes and we have had far worse crises than this.

I mentioned a situation where a sitting Vice President defected and it didn’t affect the fortunes of the party, after the President the next highest person is the Vice President and if at that level we have this kind of crisis and it

•Ndoma-Egba didn’t affect the fortune of the party, even in the unlikely events these governors leave I don’t see it changing the fortunes of the party How bothered the National

Assembly is about the security situation and how best to tackle it If you recall, we have had a number of engagements with the security chiefs and our rules

obliged us to hold close sessions when matters of internal security are being discussed, but we have had quite a number of engagements in the recent past and the frequency of those engagements is an indication of how concerned we are about the security situations.

Beyond that we, have also looked at the various laws that relate to the security infrastructure and we have tried to strengthen those laws with the relevant amendments.

Even going as far as targeting the financing of security, so what the laws relating to terrorism, money laundering have been re-jigged to strengthen the hands of security agencies in dealing with the situation.

When it became necessary for a state of emergency to be passed in certain states of the country, the National Assembly

quickly gave its support, we have been as supportive as possible, and fortunately, our concern that the judiciary which is the critical partner in this fight has not done as much as it should.

I think we are pleased to note that the judiciary is now appreciative that something needs to be done from their own end.

Until we have substantially reduced the rate of youth unemployment, we will still have the challenge of insecurity with us so I think that more attention should be paid on getting the economy working, and fortunately, steps are being taken in that direction. If you look at agriculture, it is being revolutionalized to turn into a business and with the hope that it will generate more opportunities.

Vanguard, TUESD AY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013—47 TUESDA

Pharmacists oppose proposal for Surgeon General Say it is duplication • of roles

BY SOLA OGUNDIPE

P

HARMACISTS under the aegis of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, PSN, have urged Federal government to jettison the idea of appointing a Surgeon-General to steer the affairs of the health industry in Nigeria, as it would amount to duplication of roles.

Making the call in Lagos, in the wake of renewed calls for the post, PSN President, Pharm.

Olumide Akintayo, said information provided on the need for the post cannot be a compelling factor on which to waste scarce public funds His words: “Today the incumbent Surgeon-General reports to an Assistant Secretary of Health in the United States which promotes the concept. The Office of the Surgeon-General in whatever nomenclature will mean an unnecessary duplication of offices and functions which are presently being articulated and undertaken by the Office of the Minister of Health and the Minister of State for Health with and array of Directors, Deputy Directors and Assistant.”

Explaining that stakeholders in health probably see Nigeria as a health outpost that deserves a Chief Medical Office, Akintayo said in contemporary publications and reflections, the justification for the position of a Surgeon-General is hinged on the need for such public officer to be saddled with the responsibility of independently assessing the medical fitness of public and political office holders.

“This assertion on face value is ridiculous and certainly most unconvincing because the basic tenets of medical training positions any registered medical practitioner to undertake the responsibility of ascertaining the medical fitness of individuals.”

• Pharm. Olumide Akintayo

Medic raises alarm over epidemic of generator fumes • Calls for urgent prevention, control measures

BY SOLA OGUNDIPE WORRIED by the rising incidence of death in the country from noxious portable generatorinduced fumes, a member of the World Health Organisation, WHO, Advisory Panel of the Human Genetics Programme, Professor Olu Akinyanju, has

called for urgent educational and awareness measures to stem the tide.

A Physician/ Haematologist, and Founder/ Chairman, Sickle Cell Foundation of Nigeria, Akinyanju remarked that in recent times nationwide, the wave of reports of untimely death from generator fumes had

reached epidemic proportions.

Reacting to a recent incident of a new-wed couple that choked to death from generator fumes in their new home on the outskirt of Calabar, Cross River State, Akinyanju called for an effective national strategy against the menace.

“It is an epidemic and happens

• Portable generators: Potential environmental health hazard. Inset: Prof. Olu Akinyanju.

more often than we think or expect. The story of the bride and groom who died after they went to bed with the generator on next door, is one that happens every day in this country and it is essential that we know how often it happens and where,” he noted.

Further, he said: “We are worried about people dying on the roads, but this one is happening right in the house. I know doctors who say it is so rampant, so we should be able to trace the specific incidents.You do not even know it is happening until it happens to your relatives. It is something of epidemic proportion now. In the last two months I know of at least two cases. The challenge is how to bring it to the attention of people.”

Urging the development of a control and prevention strategy, Akinyanju queried: “We have to prevent it, but how do we generate enough publicity to warn people that they should prevent it? How many people have died from generator fumes Continues on page 48

Appoint MDCN Chairman now, Wakwe tasks Jonathan

BY CHIOMA OBINNA

A

PASSIONATE call has gone to President Goodluck Jonathan to save the country’s medical practice from collapse by urgently appointing a Chairman for the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria, MDCN, just as the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria, NPMCN, has raised alarm over non allocation of resources to it by the Tertiary Education Trust Fund, TETFUND. Making the call for appointment of the MDCN Chairman in Lagos, President of the NPMCN, Professor Victor Wakwe said it is unfair for Nigeria not to have regulated medical services. Wakwe observed that from the end of 2007 to the beginning of 2010, the MDCN, which is rated at the same level as a High Court to regulate activities of all medical doctors in the country, has not functioned to date.

“All the Council needs to function is a Chairman.” He regretted that many cases of malpractice by medical doctors have been pending from that time till date. Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria is like a High Court and cannot function

• College President, NPMCN, Prof Victor Wakwe (Centre) flanked by the College Registrar, Prof Oluwole Atoyebi (Left) and Vice President, Dr Rasheed Arogundade, during the pre-Convocation conference of the College last week. PHOTO: Biodun Ogunleye.

without a Chairman. Cases of negligence amongst others reported from the end of 2007 till date are still lying without being attended to. We appeal to Mr. President to appoint the Chairman of the Council.”

Crying out for financial help to upgrade facilities at the 34-yearold College, Wakwe lamented that the College had been neglected and unable to access funds from Tertiary Education Trust Fund, TETFUND, because of its establishment under the Ministry of Health, while TETFUND was planted to handle education affairs. This is

a tertiary education; therefore, TETFUND needs to release money to the institution so as to operate successfully. We are aware that this Trust Fund begs universities to access the fund, why should our case be exempted,” he noted.

The College lacks academic infrastructure, performance and cognitive skills examination centre and training facilities.

“We have sent two proposals; one for the purchase of manikins, simulators, computers including the training of personnel that will carry out the training of resident doctors and others. We want to

know why TETFUND cannot help the College, which caters for more than 90 percent of postgraduate medical training of doctors and dentists.” Already, government has resuscitated the Post – Part 1 One – year abroad training, and sent doctors abroad last year for training, but this year, no doctor has been sent abroad.

Of about 600 doctors for training, 200 Post Part 1 candidates are abroad, the remaining who cannot be accommodated can be posted to the rural areas to work in the general hospitals and other health facilities.

48—Vanguard, TUESD AY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013 TUESDA

Group offers free health to Ijesha residents

BY UDEMBA KOSISO & MODINAT AMUSAT

H

UNDREDS of the less privileged members of society benefited from a free medical services during the 13th annual Charity Fair organised by the Society of St. Vincent De Paul, SSVDP, St. Brigids Catholic Church Chapter, Ijeshatedo, Lagos.

The activity, according the Chairman, Organising Committee, Mr. Valentine Olakaibe, said it was basically aimed at providing free medical services including free screening and consultation for ailments ranging from cervical cancer, prostate cancer, diabetes, typhoid fever and malaria, eye tests and free glasses for the less privileged. “Over the last 50 years in Nigeria, the Society had been in the service of the downtrodden in various capacities like medicals, housing, relief materials to displaced persons and orphanages.

"We normally source for funds from companies, banks, as well as contributions and

donations from individuals who are willing to assist. We also involve pharmaceutical companies that will give us these drugs for free, as well as health care centres that would partner with us.

Challenges faced so far, he noted included funding.

“We are regarded as

corporate beggars and so treated as such. Some will keep you waiting but we have no other choice but to be patient. The task requires a lot of patience despite the fact that we are not doing it for our own personal gains.

He expressed gratitude to the sponsors noting that the list is endless.

“We are particularly

grateful to them all," he continued.

During a chat, one of the beneficiaries. James Kalu, noted: “The government, NGO's and other stakeholders should follow in their footsteps in their service to the nation, or they may as well encourage them through donations and contributions.”

Amazing Life Resources holds health talk

A

MAZING Life Resources, a group at the forefront of creating awareness about good health and healthy living is organising a health seminar for the youth, the young at heart and mothers. The event which takes place at Osumenyi Town Hall, Ojo Alaba International People’s Bus Stop, Ojo, Lagos State, on September 19, 2013, would feature tips and useful resources to enable participants learn to adopt healthy lifestyle through their diet.

Spokesperson for the Group, Mr. Chinedum Otugo, a dietician, said participants would be taught how to prepare a healthy diet to keep them free of common illnesses.

Among topics lined up at the event are “How to be free from illness”, “How to Avoid Food Poisons in the 21st Century’’, “How to use What you Eat to Cure Illnesses That Defy medical Attention, “True Secret of Looking Good”, etc. The guest speaker for the day is Admin Manager, Vanguard Media Ltd., Mr. Victor Gotevbe.

Others include Dr. Emeka Arinze, Ericon Hospital, Apapa and Mr. Ifeanyi Eze, a public speaker.

Medics raise alarm

• Cross section of beneficiaries during the 13th annual Charity Fair organised by the Society of St. Vincent De Paul, SSVDP, St. Brigids Catholic Church Chapter, Ijeshatedo, Lagos.

Continues from page 47 in Nigeria within the last nine months of this year?

How many have died over the last five years in each State across the Federation? Can our pathologists tell us? I have no doubt the answers would be scary. Let us find out how bad it is and let us see if we can do a stateby-state compilation. If we can get one or two doctors involved in this research and do it systematically, we will discover that this thing is a quiet killer.” Further, he said: “It is a silent epidemic. Nobody hears anything, nobody feels anything. It just happens.” Generator fumes comprise a lethal cocktail of poisonous and environmentally unfriendly gases including carbon monoxide and other noxious products, produced from incomplete combustion of hydrocarbon fuels notably petrol, diesel or a mixture of petrol and engine oil.

Health records provide evidence that constant exposure to emmissions from generators has proved hazardous to human wellbeing affecting the lungs and causing lasting health problems such as cancer, premature birth, low weight babies and neonatal abnormalities, cerebral palsy, etc., as well as numerous deaths.

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Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013—49

By JUDE NJOKU

M

R. Abdul Adesanya (not real names) owned a multitenanted property in the Orile Iganmu area of Lagos. Having had some torrid experiences in the hands of his tenants, majority of who were defaulting in the payment of their rents, Mr. Adesanya decided to sell the property to a woman who wanted to use it to run a private nursery and primary school.

One year after buying the property, the lady who hails from the Niger Delta, is yet to take possession of the property. In fact, most of the tenants have vowed not to pack out of the building.

Frustrated after several efforts to persuade them to leave, the woman decided to approach the court to effect their eviction. But to her consternation, the lawyers are using technicalities to frustrate her the more.

Stakeholders who spoke to Vanguard Homes & Property alleged that foreclosure and repossession laws have contributed to the staggering housing deficit in the country. They posited that these laws constitute disincentives to housing investors.

President of the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers, NIESV, Mr Emeka Eleh explained that although it will not sound populist because you can easily be branded anti-people, he asserted that “our laws make it difficult for people to invest in real estate”.

“The enabling laws- the foreclosure laws, the power of repossession laws, make it difficult to invest in real estate. Let me give you an example. If you look at the issue of the housing deficit that we have been talking about, which ranges from 15 million to 20 million depending on whom you are talking to, that deficit relates more to the low income end. Why are people not investing in that end? It is because of

A multi-tenanted building: Does recovery of such buildings retard property development?

Foreclosure and repossession laws retard housing development — Experts •It is a fallacy — Rights activist the challenge of repossession in case of default. The challenge is immense; you can be in court for five to eight years,” he noted.

Continuing he said: “Sometimes, I feel sorry for the banks that finance these schemes because even the banks cannot sell a property when a customer defaults. Like I said, it may not sound populist, but all it does is that it creates a disincentive to

investing in the housing sector.

If the man who has invested in low income houses in Agege or anywhere is sure that in times of default, in one month’s time, he gets back his house, the idea of investing in that sector would be high. But that is not the case.

What we are saying is this, while we are reviewing the land use act, we should equally review the laws because a lot of our laws are

so old that they require reviews as a matter of urgency. And I feel that the appropriate law that can enable investors to take back their property as quickly as possible would be a great interest to housing development. What we have now cannot work. We have to change our power of repossession laws to create the right environment for investors which will ultimately boost the

Dickson charges contractors on early completion of projects

By SAMUEL OYADONGHA, Yenagoa

T

HE Bayelsa Governor, Seriake Dickson weekend challenged contractors handling the ongoing road and infrastructural projects in the state to complete them on schedule to ease the heavy vehicular traffic noticed in some parts of Yenegoa.

Governor Seriake Dickson, who took a tour of the project sites in the state, said though he is satisfied with the progress of work on projects inspected, he maintained that quick completion of the projects will ease traffic and improve the landscape of the Bayelsa State capital.

Among projects inspected by the Gov-

ernor, include the Governor and Deputy Governors’ Office complex, Government House Clinic, new Secretariat Annexes, modern police officers’ mess, and the site for the construction of the state Archives, Museum and Language Centre.

Also inspected were the Gloryland Cultural Centre, Pharmaceutical Storage and Distribution Complex, Ring Road Project from Bayelsa-Palm to AIT, Elebele and Flyover Bridge project at the NNPC mega station/Julius Berger Junction.

At the the GloryLand Cultural Centre, Governor Seriake Dickson expressed satisfaction with the reconstruction work being done even as he appreciated the quality of new sculptural works put in place to enhance the aesthetics of the Events

centre.

He, however, ordered the redesigning of the stage and some parts of the edifice to make it world-class and directed the Commissioner for State Capital Development, Mr. Zuwa Konugha to liaise with its Culture and Ijaw National Affairs counterpart to adorn the city with more sculptural pieces portraying Ijaw culture and values.

Dickson also directed the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Mr. Lawrence Ewrudjakpo to ensure the construction of a befitting road to link the archives, museum and language center, which is sited opposite the newly completed modern police officers’ mess.

housing development sector,” Mr. Eleh said.

Corroborating his views, the Chairman of the Lagos State branch of the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers, NIESV, Pastor Stephen Jagun posited that the laws on recovery of premises have been exploited by most defaulting tenants and their lawyers to hold the landlords to ransom.

Explaining that it is good to protect the tenant, Pastor Jagun opined that the landlord’s rights should also be respected. He explained that in advanced countries like America and England, it is illegal for tenants to default in the payment of their rents and once they do, they would be evicted. “But here, you will see a tenant in court with the landlord for four to five years on technicalities. The law of recovery of premises should be finetuned,” he canvassed.

Buttressing this line of thought, the Lagos NIESV Chairman stated that the Lagos State Government and most private developers, in a bid to avoid the trouble of tenants, are no longer building to lease. Their houses are now sold outright and this trend is not good for those who don’t have the funds to buy.

Loopholes in the law “We should be talking of a robust industry not just building houses to buy. But the question is, those who have the funds to build, how protected are they?

They just want to sell and move on which is not good enough,” he said.

He decried the practice where lawyers “explore the loopholes in the law to get as much time as possible for defaulting tenants”.

But an Abuja-based Lawyer and rights activist, Mr Eze Onyekpere maintained that “It is a fallacy that recovery of premises laws retard housing development”. He argued that “the tenant is deserving of all the protection he has under the tenancy laws”.

“The premise that tenants hold landlords to ransom under the law leading to this conclusion is not true. Those who hold such views would rather have tenants on the streets at the flimsiest excuse. They belong to the old outdated jurisprudential school that believes that ownership of a house per se trumps the right of fellow human beings to a secure place to live in peace and with full human dignity. This trend of thought is premised on the poor enabling environment where the average Nigerian has been programmed by government to be a tenant in perpetuity. In other jurisdictions, the amounts tenants pay as rents in Nigeria should have been mortgage contributions towards eventual ownership of housing.

50—Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013

FG adopts new approaches to tackle housing deficit

By CHARLES KUMOLU

W

HEN President Goodluck Jonathan at the Presidential Stakeholders Retreat on Housing and Urban Development, promised that the Federal Government will revolutionalise the housing sector by translating the National Housing Policy and National Urban Development Policy into a road map for housing development, it was expected that many would be enthusiastic.

But the contrary was the case given that for decades the quest by successive administrations to provide affordable housing has been hindered by institutional instability.

Against the backdrop of the housing deficit put at a staggering 17 million units, the Federal government through its various agencies in the sector, has embarked upon programmes geared towards providing one million houses units annually.

Managing Director of Homes and Mortgage, Mr. Gwaza Dankwero told Vanguard Homes & Property that a different approach to solving the housing problem has been adopted by the government. Dankwero who is an architect declared: “There is a different approach at the moment. Although it has not been significantly felt due to the country’s poor housing development mechanism before the Jonathan transformation agenda came on board, however there is light at

Prototype of FHA building the end of the tunnel. Statistics show that Nigeria requires about 17 million houses to augment the housing needs of the populace.’’

The Abuja based developer who apparently spoke on behalf of the government disclosed that ‘’so far, almost 16,447 housing units have been added to the national housing stock through various interventions by the Federal Mortgage Bank,

Federal Housing Authority and Ministry of Housing and Urban Development.

In a similar vein, 238 housing units under the prototype housing scheme and 2,009 housing units under the public private partnership/contractor finance programme have also been executed’’ Continuing, he said: ‘’the success story has continued to

FG completes 95% of Galma dam project

BY FUNMI OLASUPO

T

HE Galma multipurpose Dam which has attained about 95 percent completion level, would improve the economic value of the people of Kaduna State.

Vanguard Homes & Property gathered that the Dam, when completed will generate about 2.5 megawatts of electricity, as well as provide about 150 million liters of water per day to the people of the state. In addition to to these, it will also provide irrigation of facilities to the farmers.

The Minister of Water Resources, Mrs Sarah Ochekpe who inspected the Galma multipurpose dam located in Kubau Local Government of Kaduna State with Governor Mukhtar Ramalan Yero, reeled out these advantages.

Ochekpe who maintained that the government would ensure the completion of ongoing projects before embarking on new ones, was optimistic that work on the dam would be completed very soon.

“That is why we gave all the necessary support towards the completion of this project. We

are glad that the dam has reached 95 percent completion,” she said, adding that the project would ensure increase in “the level of foreign exchange and reduce dependency on oil revenue”.

“The facilities of the dam project included; the development of irrigation facility to irrigate between 1,500 to 2,000 hectares of land for the farmers, provision of water transfer from Galma Dam to the Zaria Dam to support the Zaria Regional Water Project funded by the African Development Bank

(AfDB). The hydropower component of the dam would also generate about 2.5 megawatts being the core desire of the Federal Government to see that the rural communities are well developed so that the country would have a staple crop processing zone,” she said.

“The installation of power within the facility would further strengthen the rural economy in the area, create job opportunities and strengthen capacity of Nigeria to be able to process the crops that are being produced by farmers.”

increase sporadically. At present, the ministry is establishing 150 fully serviced residential plots per site in 12 states of the six geopolitical zones of the country and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. It is also collaborating with the Aso Savings and Loans Limited and the Federal Mortgage Bank to develop 144 mixed housing units of one -three bedroom apartments at Lugbe, Abuja.’’

One problem that has continued to be a cog in the wheel of progress in the housing sector is paucity of funds and lack of access to land. It was against this backdrop that the President pledged to redress the trend through equitable access to land.

Also speaking at a recent forum, the immediate past Minister of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Ms Amal Pepple, disclosed that 7,510 housing units through estate development loans were provided by the Federal Mortgage Bank.

“The ministry is working in partnership with the Presidential Technical Committee on Land

Propertygate gets media adviser A

S part of its corporate growth and development strategy, Propertygate Development and Investment Plc, a frontline real estate development company, has appointed SOFUNIX Investment and Communications Limited as its Public Relations and Corporate Communications Adviser. By this engagement, SOFUNIX Investment and Communications Limited is to co-

ordinate all marketing communications needs of Propertygate Development and Investment Plc. These are Investor Relation, Public Relations, Strategic Media Management, Branding and Advertising. This is without prejudice to other functions that can showcase the company’s intrinsic values.

Commenting on the signing on of SOFUNIX Investment and

Communications Limited, Propertygate’s Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Mr Adetokunbo Ajayi described it as a strategic move to enable Propertygate realize its vision, mission and core values.

“We have been working towards this type of relationship.

When SOFUNIX Investment and Communications was introduced to us, we found out that the company has what it

Reform and other stakeholders to address the plethora of issues in land administration and management. The aim is to ensure that land owners have secured titles and bankable assets,”she said.

The ministry is currently collaborating with relevant stakeholders to address the contentious issues in land administration and management. ‘’At present, 2,667 Certificates of Occupancy, Cs of O have been granted and 1,651 consents for the transfer of land titles while 3,787 serviced plots had been created. 238 housing units were also delivered under the prototype Housing Scheme.2,009 housing units were also delivered under the Public-Private Partnership/Contractor Finance. A number of 1,756 housing units were delivered through the FHA.Others are 4,934 housing units delivered through mortgages created by the FMBN, and 7,510 housing units delivered through estate development loans provided by the FMBN,’’ the former Minister added.

takes to assist us in driving our vision, mission and core values.”

“We need to work with a professionally focused company in order to advance our carefullybuilt image. At Propertygate, we believe in adding value to our stakeholders’ needs and our staff work round the clock to sustain integrity and innovativeness. We believe that our relationship with SOFUNIX which has been endorsed by our Board of Directors would surely enhance Propertygate’s competitive edge.”

Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013—51

Food waste harms climate, water, others —New FAO report T

HE waste of a staggering

1.3 billion tonnes of food per year is not only causing major economic losses but also wreaking significant harm on the natural resources that humanity relies upon to feed itself, says a new FAO report released last Thursday Food Wastage Footprint: Impacts on Natural Resources is the first study to analyze the impacts of global food wastage from an environmental perspective, looking specifically at its consequences for the climate, water and land use, and biodiversity.

Among its key findings: Each year, food that is produced but not eaten guzzles up a volume of water equivalent to the annual flow of Russia’s Volga River and is responsible for adding 3.3 billion tonnes of greenhouse gases to the planet’s atmosphere.

In addition to its environmental impacts, the direct economic consequences to producers of food wastage (excluding fish and seafood) run to the tune of $750 billion annually, FAO’s report estimates.

“We all - farmers and fishers; food processers and supermarkets; local and national governments; individual consumers - must make changes at every link of the human food chain to prevent food wastage from happening in the first place, and re-use or recycle it when we can’t,” said FAO Director-General José Graziano da Silva.

“In addition the environmental imperative, there is a moral one: We simply cannot allow one-third of all the food we produce to go to waste, when 870 million people go hungry every day, “ he added.

President Goodluck Jonathan (right) in a handshake with Oyebanji Oyeyinka while Mr. Andrew Cox watches.

As a companion to its new study, FAO has also published “tool-kit” that contains recommendations on how food loss and waste can be reduced at every stage of the food chain.

The tool-kit profiles a number of projects around the world that show how national and local governments, farmers, businesses, and individual consumers can take steps to tackle the problem.

Achim Steiner, UN UnderSecretary General and UN En-

vironment Programme (UNEP) Executive Director, said:”UNEP and FAO have identified food waste and lossfood wastage-as a major opportunity for economies everywhere to assist in a transition towards a low carbon, resource efficient and inclusive Green Economy. Today’s excellent report by the FAO underlines the multiple benefits that can be realized- in many cases through simple and thoughtful measures by for example

International treaty on biosafety marks 10th anniversary

By KINGSLEY ADEGBOYE

I

NTERNATIONAL Treaty on Biosafety last week marked its 10th anniversary of the entry into force of the international agreement governing the movement of living modified organisms, LMOs across national borders.

The Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety entered into force on 11 September 2003 ninety days after 50 countries agreed to be bound by it, is as a supplementary treaty to the Convention on Biological Diversity, which aims to ensure the safe handling, transfer and use of LMOs resulting from modern biotechnology commonly known as genetically modified

organisms, GMOs that may have adverse effects on biological diversity.

Modern biotechnology has potential to improve human wellbeing through enhancing agricultural productivity, but there is concern about potential risks that LMOs may pose to biological diversity and human health. The Cartagena Protocol is the global community’s response to this concern.

The protocol also provides a framework that can enable the world derive maximum benefit from modern biotechnology without compromising the environment and human health.

According to a statement from

Convention on Biological Diversity, CBD Secretariat, over the past 10 years, a lot of progress has been made towards the implementation of the Protocol.

“Today, over 100 countries have developed national legal frameworks and administrative systems tailored to handle applications and facilitate decision-making regarding the export and import of LMOs. These systems require risk assessments to be conducted to inform any decisions on the imports of LMOs. Contracting parties to the Cartagena Protocol have also developed systems to ensure that LMOs are handled, packaged and transported across borders under safe conditions.

households, retailers, restaurants, schools and businessesthat can contribute to environmental sustainability, economic improvements, food security and the realization of the UN

Secretary General’s Zero Hunger Challenge.

We would urge everyone to adopt the motto of our joint campaign: Think Eat Save-Reduce Your Foodprint!”.

52 —

Vanguard, TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 17, 2013

Gala can beat Madrid – Drogba

Bayern kick off defence against CSKA ….Guardiola cautious

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ALATASARAY can beat Real Madrid despite their poor start to the season, striker Didier Drogba said. ”It’s a new season and we know we can beat them again. ”The best thing to do is play good football and give 100 percent to win.

Once again we are going to face the top clubs of Europe this season and I think we have a good chance to qualify (for the knockout stages),” Drogba was quoted as saying

in an IOL report.

The two sides met last season in the Champions League quarter-final, where Real Madrid advanced 5-3 on aggregate.

AYERN Munich begin the defence of their Champions League title against CSKA Moscow with coach Pep Guardiola insisting that any early predictions over success in the Champions League this season are premature.

The Bavarians are bidding to become the first club to successfully retain the Champions League this season.

“It’s to early to talk about defending the title. ”We know that they’re one of the best teams in the world. We aren’t nervous, however. ”I’m confident with how we played in the recent games. I think we are well prepared for the match.”added Guardiola

Leverkusen suffer injury blow

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AMI Hyypia’s hopes of springing a Champions’ League shock at Old Trafford tonight have been hit by an injury to influential midfielder Gonzalo Castro.

The 26-year old was earmarked for a key role in Bayer Leverkusen boss Hyypia’s plans for their opening group game with Manchester United but was not on the plane when the rest of the squad set off from Germany on Monday morning.

Castro, a Germany international of Spanish descent, picked up an injury in the final minute of Saturday ’s 3-1 Bundesliga win over Wolfsburg.

•Castro

•Drogba

I want to win Champions League this season — Moyes D Pellegrini: I’m key to AVID Moyes says he wants to win the Champions League in his first season in charge of Manchester United.

Moyes begins his European adventure with a clash against Sami Hyypia’s Bayer Leverkusen at Old Trafford tonight.

“I’m really excited about it. I’ve been excited since joining Manchester United, every game has offered a new challenge.

“I’m really looking forward to the Champions League. I’ve there before, with Everton, and we didn’t quite make the Group stages, but this is something different.

“I’ve been in the Premier League for a long time now. I’ve always wanted to get to the Champions League and I did everything I could at Everton to try and make that happen.

“I’ve now got another route in with Manchester United and I’m going to do everything I possibly can to win it. That’s the key.”

City’s success

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ABIO Quagliarella says he will be ready to face FC Copenhagen if he is named in the Juventus starting XI tonight.

“The Coach, as always, makes his decisions,” he told Sky Sport Italia. “But my objective is to do well in training

and convince him to pick me game after game.

“I’m always ready.

When the Coach decides that I need to start a game or come on as a substitute, he knows that he can calmly rely on me.

“If he decides that it is my turn to play then

ANCHESTER City Manuel Pellegrini believes he has the experience and calibre to deliver Champions League success this season.

City begin their European campaign tonight against Viktoria Plzen.

“This is my fifth year in the Champions League and I am very happy about my last campaigns.

“It is not easy to make it with a team like Villarreal and reach the semi-finals, or to make it to a quarter-final.

“The same happened with Malaga when we managed to make it into the quarter finals.

“I think that the most important aspect is to make the players feel that they have the capac-

•Moyes

Juve’s Fabio ready for Coppenhagen

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•Ribery

there would be no problem at all.

“The Champions League, as it was last year for us as well, is a dream,” the forward added. “The hope is that we get further than we did in the last campaign.

Let’s just see how it goes.”

•Fabio

•Pellegrini ity, and feel the confidence to compete against teams at the same level, considering all the tactical aspects.”

After a trip to the Czech Republic, City will have to face CSKA Moscow before entertaining European Champions Bayern Munich and Pellegrini knows emerging from the group will be a difficult task.

“I think that all groups are difficult. It would be a big mistake to think that playing a team with less history in Europe would be easier to play.”

Vanguard, TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 17, 2013 — 53

Gyan confident Black Stars will triumph over Egypt

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HANA captain Asamoah Gyan believes they well psyched to face Egypt in the playoff round of the Brazil 2014 World Cup qualifiers.

The Black Stars have been drawn against the Pharaohs to battle for a place in next year ’s tournament to be staged in Brazil after the draw was held in Cairo on Monday morning.

Ghana – winners of Group D – were seeded for the draw due to its superior position on the FIFA rankings.

Egypt, who won all their games in Group G and became the first African side to advance to the playoffs, were drawn from Pot B. The Black Stars per the draw will host the Pharaohs in the first leg in October before travelling for the return encounter a month later.

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CELEBRATION . . . Super Eagles forward, Victor Moses celebrates with teammate, Ahmed Musa after one of the goals that nailed Ethiopia in the last Nations Cup in South Africa. Eagles are pitched with Ethiopia again in the 2014 World Cup qualifying play off.

Egypt, who last played at the World Cup in 1990, are eager to return to the world stage and are favoured by their recent dominance over Ghana.

But Ghana captain Asamoah Gyan feels the Black Stars have a tough

mentality to sail through the final stages of the qualifiers.

“It is a tricky tie but as we are determined to qualify for Brazil we have to be mentally ready to face them,” he told Accra-based Happy FM.

Reactions

Continues from BP heavy drought and it affected their lives badly.

Things are better there now. Their football has improved tremendously.

We saw what they did at the last Nations Cup in South Africa. Our victory will depend on the goals that we could score here in Nigeria. When you play in Ethiopia, there will always be the weather factor because of their high altitude. You could play for

90 minutes and you would not sweat. But you will be finding it difficult to breath.

It is, therefore, important to acclimatize in their weather before the match.

That could be done by training in a neighbouring country like Tanzania before arriving in Ethiopia.

Before then, our locals could camp in Sokoto or Maiduguri. We have the players to beat them but we must respect them and work hard. Being a team

that had no rich football history they just play the game and try to have fun.

That makes them a difficult side. They just play and try to work out their game plan and they don’t get intimidated by names.

The game could be won by the goals we score here in Nigeria in the second leg.

But a good preparation can also make us come out with a clean result when we play away.

Ethiopia can harm Eagles — Disu

BY JOHN EGBOKHAN

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X- international, Tajudeen Disu has warned the Super Eagles to be wary of Ethiopia, who they have been drawn to play in the round three final playoffs for the 2014 World Cup. While scenes of

excitement and relief greeted yesterday’s draw held in Cairo, which sees the African champions playing what appears to be the weakest of the ten teams left in the qualifying campaign, the exinternational said that the Eagles would be digging their pit by underrating the east African side, who

Eagles Continues from BP 36th place.

The odds favour the African champions in this draw. In 7 previous meetings, they have won 5, drawn 1 and lost just once to Ethiopia.

By far the toughest draw of the round features Ghana against

Elegbeleye warns Eagles, assures team of NSC support

Egypt, while Africa’s top-ranked team Côte d’Ivoire get to play Senegal in a repeat of their 2013 African Nations Cup qualifying.

The first leg of the ties happen in between October 11-15 with the second legs taking place between November 1519.

stopped Bafana Bafana from reaching the final phase of the African qualification series.

“On paper in seems like a very easy fixture against Ethiopia but when you look at the way they played us at the last Nations Cup in South Africa and the progress they have made since then, then you will appreciate why I feel that we will have our hands full when we play Ethiopia.

“We can not let our guards down when we play them. We must give them their respect, play them with caution and must not underrate them because they are the underdogs and would want to cause an upset by beating us because it would send shock waves around the world”, added Disu.

“I will talk to the other players and get them psyched up for the game.

“Their league is off now so they have been camping a lot and they are very formidable so we have to be equally prepared to face them.”

Kojo Williams.

Those Ethiopians will not be easy to beat. We should win but it will not be easy. They will be difficult. From what we saw at the Nations Cup, they are a technical side who lacked the power in the attack to convert their chances. But having gotten this far, you will be undoing yourself to underrate them. I think that Ethiopia will amount to some trouble for us with their weather and game.

Christian Chukwu Ethiopia could be slippery. We have to be very careful. Weather will be an issue when we play away. But I think that the good thing is that we will be playing away first. We should qualify.

Franklin Howard There shouldn’t be sleepless nights about Ethiopia. I have no fears.

They will play good football but we will score.

It happened during the Nations Cup in South Africa. It will happen again. This draw calls for champagne-popping.

They will play beautiful football but we will win even in Addis Ababa before coming to Nigeria.

But we must respect them.

We are going away first but that’s where the game will end for them.

IRECTOR General of the National Sports Commission, Hon Gbenga Elegbeleye has received the news of Nigeria playing against Ethiopia in the play-off of the 2014 World Cup with happiness and heaved a sigh of relieve that the Super Eagles avoided strong football playing nations like Cameroon, Cote d’Ivoire, Ghana and Egypt.

Elegbeleye, however urged the Stephen Keshi tutored team to treat the 2014 World Cup play-off match against Ethiopia with all the seriousness the two-legged matches deserved in order to ensure Nigeria book her place in the finals of the Mundial

in Brazil.

The former Legislator who received the news of the final play-off of the 2014 World Cup pitching Nigeria against Ethiopia with happiness was quick to warn that the Eagles should not underrate the Ethiopians which according to him are a strong side as far as African football is concerned. ”This pairing is nice if we consider the fact that we were able to avoid the big names in African football lilke Cameroon, Egypt, Cote d’Ivoire and Ghana but that doesn’t mean that we will stroll on Ethiopia to get the world cup ticket, no not at all.

LMC, Clubs declare state of emergency in league

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STATE of emergency have been declared for the remaining seven round of matches in the Glo Premier League starting with the Week 32 matches coming up midweek at various centres. The declaration is the highlight of a 12 points resolution reached at a joint consultative meeting between the League Management Company (LMC) and Club Owners held on Sunday at the Grand Bee hotel in Ikeja, Lagos.

Signed by all the Clubs

present at the meeting, the resolution is part of other intervention measures designed to curb the growing incidencies of intimidation of match officials and crowd encroachment on the field of play.

“State of emergency is hereby declared for the remaining seven round of matches in view of the present spate of disturbances and aggitations going on for sometime in the League”, the communique read.

Ethiopia Continues from BP Ethiopia, while the Eagles lost to their rivals in 1994 and there have been two draws.

Chelsea midfielder Mikel Obi said there will be no hiding place “It was a nice draw.

Though I am not afraid of any team, Ethiopia will get thrashed. I am not saying they are not a good team but they are no match to us. We will give our very best as individuals and as a team,” Mikel told MTNFootball.com CSKA Moscow forward Ahmed also said that they will give their best as usual to beat Ethiopia and get the 2014 World Cup ticket.

“We couldn’t have asked for better

opponents. With all due respect to them, they will be beaten well in both legs. We know what Nigeria expect and that is outright victory. We won’t look down on them but we will prepare hard for them,” Musa assured.

Efe Ambrose said that Nigerians should not lose sleep over the opposition as they the players are ready to crush any team on their way to 2014 World Cup. “They are not a threat to us at any point so they won’t be now, we will not underrate them. We will do our best and see that we beat them. I know they will want to come at us, but we are superior and will prove that again,” Ambrose stated.

54 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013

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Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013—55

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VANGUARD, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17 , 2013

Tonight’s Champions League games Man Utd Real Sociedad FC Copenhagen Galatasaray Benfica Olympiakos Bayern Munich Viktoria Plzen

2014 World Cup play-offs

Eagles to play Ethiopia Ivory Coast v Ethiopia v Tunisia v Ghana v Burkina Faso v

•Keshi

PUZZLE

... Chukwu, Emetiole, kojo, Howard react Kelechi Emetiole

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Senegal Nigeria Cameroon Egypt Algeria

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UPER Eagles led by Mikel Obi have vowed to crush Ethiopia in the final playoffs so as to qualify for the 2014 World Cup. The draw was held in Egypt Monday morning and Nigeria will face Ethiopia with the first

ELECHI Emetiole played for Nigeria in the 1976 Nations Cup in Ethiopia.

He was versatile. He played in the defence, in midfield and in the attack during his days. Any position that coach Father Tiko had a problem in, he would switch Kelechi, fondly called Caterpillar, to that position.

When Nigeria were drawn to play Ethiopia leg in Addis Ababa in the last 2014 World between October 11-15, Cup hurdle in Brazil while the return leg in yesterday, we knew that Nigeria will be between his comments would be November 15-19. interesting. Said he: Nigeria have won five “When we played at of the previous seven the Nations Cup in 1976, matches against things were difficult in Ethiopia then. There was Continues on Page 53 Continues on Page 53

Ethiopia can harm Eagles — Disu •P.53

•Mikel

QUICK CROSSWORD

Sudoku TODAY'S

7:45pm 7:45pm 7:45pm 7:45pm 7:45pm 7:45pm 7:45pm 7:45pm

Mikel, Musa, Ambrose vow to crush Ethiopia

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FCON holders Nigeria will battle Ethiopia for a spot at the 2014 World Cup, as was decided by the Africa zone play-off draw in Cairo on Monday.

The Super Eagles will play away first to the Walya Antelopes in October, before hosting the second leg at home in Nigeria.

Ethiopia are the leastranked of the 10 teams that qualified for the final phase of the series, with a FIFA ranking of 93 and 25th in Africa, compared to Nigeria’s Continues on Page 53

Bayer Leverkusen Shakhtar Donetsk Juventus Real Madrid Anderlecht PSG CSKA Moscow Man City

BY ONOCHIE ANIBEZE

AFRICAN 2014 PLAY-OFFS • • • • •

v v v v v v v v

YESTER DAY'S YESTERDAY'S

ANSWERS

ACROSS 1 Inexperienced (6) 5 Excite (6) 8 Baptise (8) 9 Discourteous (4) 10 Limb (3) 12 Jolt (5) 15 Still (3) 17 Mineral (3) 18 Born (3) 19 Bird (3) 20 Entire (5) 21 Vestment (3) 22 Untruth (3) 23 Donkey (3) 24 Failure (3) 26 Challenged (5) 29 Couple (3) 33 Thought (4) 34 Point out (8) 35 Confirm (6) 36 Comment (6)

DOWN 2 Hate (5) 3 Den (4) 4 Observe (5) 5 Pick-me-up (5) 6 Unusual (4) 7 Deposit (5) 10 Rectify (5) 11 Form (5) 12 Stitched (5) 13 Smell (5) 14 Massage (5) 15 Leaven (5) 16 Prohibited (5) 25 Excessive (5) 27 Friendship (5) 28 Senior (5) 30 Irrigate (5) 31 Cab (4) 32 Dross (4)

YESTERDAY'S SOLUTIONS ACROSS: 1, Hard 4, Fad 6, Fray 8, Pillar 9, Thieve 10, Toy 12, Guava 14, Shore 15, Evade 18, Shared 20, Girder 24, Dogma 26, Agent 28, Purge 30, Yet 32, Revise 33, Hooter 34, Fete 35, Run 36, Side.

DOWN: 2, Adieu 3, Deliver 4, Fort 5, Duty 6, Faith 7, Adverse 11, Odd 12, Gas 13, Ave 16, Add 17, Egg 19, Hygiene 21, Imp 22, Raucous 23, Rye 25, Ode 27, Noise 29, Greed 30, Year 31, Thin.

TWO WEEKS TO LIVE How to Play Sudoku

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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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