JONATHAN'S BROADCAST FALLOUT: Outrage, Kudos over renaming of UNILAG

...towards a better life for the people VOL. 25: NO. 61633

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ONLINE | www.vanguardngr.com

N150

WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012

UNILAG STUDENTS PROTEST

E.K. Clark to northern elite:

Call Boko Haram to order •P.6

PROTEST—University of Lagos students protesting the re-naming of the institution after late MKO Abiola yesterday in Lagos.

Photo: NAN. See more pictures on Page 15.

NMA slams recall of 34 sacked doctors •P.6

JONATHAN's BROADCAST FALLOUT:

Outrage, kudos over renaming of UNILAG •Students stage peaceful mass protest •Utomi, Sagay, Kokori, Opadokun, others react •We are ecstatic over decision —Abiola's family

BY OKEY NDIRIBE, HUGO ODIOGOR, AMAKA ABAYOMI, DAPO AKINREFON, CHARLES KUMOLU, IFEANYI OKOLIE & DAUD OLATUNJI

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Police rescue 96-yr-old woman from kidnappers •P.14

Leaders behaving badly — P.17

BUJA—OUTRAGE and kudos, yesterday, greeted the announcement by President Goodluck Jonathan renaming the University of Lagos as Moshood Abiola University, Lagos. In a national broadcast to Continues on Page 5

Mr & Mrs

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Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012—5

Outrage, kudos over renaming of Unilag Continues from Page 1 mark his one year in office, President Jonathan said: “The Federal Government has decided that late Chief M.K.O. Abiola be honoured, for making the ultimate sacrifice in the pursuit of justice and truth. Destiny and circumstances conspired to place upon his shoulders a historic burden, and he rose to the occasion with character and courage.

He deserves recognition for his martyrdom, and public-spiritedness and for being the man of history that he was”.

The president’s broadcast immediately led to outrage from the University of Lagos community as students trooped to the street in protest, while other academics argued that the President did not follow due process before changing the name of the university. Others however commended the president for his action with members of Abiola’s family saying they were ecstatic at the honour done to late Abiola.

The protesting students

of University of Lagos barricaded all access roads to the school armed with placards and marched from Yaba College of Technology junction through the ever-busy Herbert Macaulay Way, Sabo and Yaba areas of the state and finally gathered at the school gate chanting anti-Jonathan slogans and vowed to remain at that spot through out the night and until the president reverses his decision. They also threatened that they would stay out of classes as long as the president decides to uphold the new name of the university. They argued that the president could have named the presidential villa, Aso Rock, or National Assembly after late Abiola.

The students demanded a reversal of the president’s action saying “the name change is coming at a time when we are planning to bury our late Vice Chancellor and celebrate the school’s 50th anniversary.

According to them, “we

LIFEWORDS

BY PASTOR ITUAH

You are the direct product of your actions or inactions. The things you do today are seeds sown to be harvested in later years leading to a blissful life or a life full of pain, regret and sorrow for you and generations to come.

The apparent actions or in-actions of the last generation is the direct effect of the experiences this generation is going through. What this generation is doing will determine what. Be careful how you act so the incoming generation does not describe you as an harbinger or pain and regret.

TAKE HEART

BY ELLA RANDLE

We are like water. Water cannot become any wetter, because being wet is not something apart from water. In the same way, love and kindness are not attributes that we can add to our being. Our true self is loving and kind at its core —Mary Jacsch.

ACSCH expresses a deeper understanding by her writings on what motivates our desire for change. You may find these insights pleasant or uncomfortable discovery but whatever you choose to accept often most of life’s challenges stem from a lack of self-love, self-acceptance and awareness. This much I have come to know to be true.

How can we find ways to cultivate loving-kindness toward ourselves and others? Each one of us has the capacity for boundless love and kindness.

That’s why it can’t be given or acquired. There is a saying that “If you are busy thinking you should be kind, you might miss the reality that kindness is already present. In you. You might want to ask – “if that’s the case, why am I often grumpy and struggle to feel kindness in my heart?” The answer is simple: Our capacity for boundless love and kindness lies deep within. So do unto others as you will want for yourself and try to be helpful when life presents the opportunity.

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have blocked all access roads to the school because we want government to know that we are against their decision to change the name of our school to Moshood Abiola University (MAU). Our academic calendar has not been stable and this would further disrupt it.”

Some of the placards carried by the students read- “reverse or resign now ”, “FG killed Sofoluwe”, “Unilag can’t be called MAU”, among others.

In his reaction, the Dean, Students’ Affairs, Professor Kayode Amund, pointed out that the school authority was not involved in any form of consultations with government concerning the change of name.

“This is a crisis period and I must confess that the school authorities were taken by surprise because, despite the fact that this is a federal government school, we expect that government would have consulted us before a big announcement like this is made. It is the students’ legitimate right to protest but we are trying to calm them down so that the protests don’t become violent and destructive”, he said.

Protest peaceful — Police The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Umaru Manko, who spoke with Vanguard on phone, said he visited the scene of the protest in company of Divisional Police Officers from, Adekunle, Sabo, and Bariga police stations, saying he ordered his men to treat the protesting students with caution and ensure that there was no break down of law and order. “I was at the scene with some of my men but we weren’t there to stop the students from protesting. We allowed them to exercise their rights to protest but we made sure that they didn’t break the law or prevent the free flow of traffic. Though at the time the protest started, there was a little attempt to disrupt the flow of traffic within some areas in Akoka, but we were able to control it and restore normalcy. From all indications the protest was peaceful. There was no loss of life, no

POCKET CARTOON

destruction of property.

No one was arrested.

The students also conducted themselves in a more matured manner.”

Other people who reacted to the change in the name of the university either condemned it or commended the president for his courage.

Jonathan’s action is right step —Abiola’s daughter One of the Children of late Abiola, Mrs Hafsat Abiola-Costello, yesterday, described the naming of University of Lagos by President Goodluck Jonathan after her late father as a right step in the right direction. Mrs. AbiolaCostello who is currently the Special Adviser to Governor Ibikunle Amosun on Millennium Development Goals, MDG, expressed satisfaction over the new development, saying that the national recognition was long overdue.

Also speaking on the development in Abeokuta, former Senator representing Ogun West, Iyabo Anisulowo lauded President Goodluck Jonathan for his courage and boldness in giving the recognition to Abiola.

She said: “It was the right step in the right direction. It is long overdue but most importantly government should tackle poverty in the land.”.

Treat him as President, Aregbesola urges FG In his own reaction the Governor of Osun State, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, advised President Goodluck Jonathan to go a step further to recognise the victory of the late Chief MKO Abiola in the June 12 presidential election.

The Governor, while expressing his position on the honour of naming the University of Lagos after the late politician, said, however, that what could permanently heal the wounds of the incarceration of Abiola and the brutalisation of his supporters is to officially recognise the fact that he won the presidential election of

June 12 1993 and accord him posthumously all the rights and privileges associated with the office.

The Director, Bureau of Communications and Strategy in the Office of the Governor, Mr. Semiu Okanlawon, quoted the Governor as saying that Abiola won the election decisively noting that it was bizarre the manner the winner of an election could be subjected to the degree of humiliation Abiola suffered before his eventual death.

President’s action is provocative —Oyebode Prof Akin Oyebode, Head of International

Law and Jurisprudence of the university said Chief MKO Abiola is deserving of every honour that Nigeria can give him but the president has reduced a man with such a national stature to an ethnic political figure, because he wants to win the votes of the Yoruba people in 2015.

According to Prof.

Oyebode, the president could have named the National Stadium after Chief MKO Abiola who was generally acknowledged as the pillar of sports in Africa.

He said to name an institution of 50 year old standing after Chief Abiola was provocative and a cheap shot at the Continues on Page 12

6—VANGUARD, WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012

BY MITAIRE IKPEN

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BUJA — FRONTLINE elder statesman and acclaimed leader of the Ijaw nation, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, yesterday, challenged the northern elite, comprising the governors of the 19 northern states, to prove their commitment to the peace and continued coexistence of Nigeria by identifying the masterminds of the rampaging Boko Haram sect and bringing them to the negotiating table.

The octogenarian gave the challenge at a parley with the theme “The Need for National Cooperation for Nation Building,” organised by the Ijaw Youth Leadership Forum (Oporoza House) at the International Conference Centre, Abuja to celebrate President Goodluck Jonathan’s one year in office as well as 13 years of undisrupted democracy in Nigeria.

Clark recalled that during the days of Niger Delta militancy, he, President Jonathan and other prominent leaders from the region combed the creeks of Niger Delta to persuade the then rampaging militants to give peace a chance by showing up at the negotiating table, leading to the successful amnesty programme initiated during the late President Umaru Yar’Adua’s administration.

He, however, lamented that despite these past sacrifices by leaders from the South at promoting nationbuilding and facilitating national coexistence, the northern elite appear to be playing to the gallery with the Boko Haram insurgency which is threatening the very fabric of the nation.

“This (security situation)

happens in every country.

Nigeria is a big country. You don’t expect everybody to be the same. In his (President’s) own area, we had these kind of issues before, the militants and young men who went into the creeks. We went into the creeks to appeal to them. I even went with Mr. President then to Oporoza, to Camp 5 to persuade them and when they agreed, President Yar’Adua granted amnesty to them.

“We do hope that the 19 governors of the north will also go their various states, identify these boys, and state their grievances, make peace with them and I think the Federal Government will recognise them and make peace with them.”

We 'll not allow Nigeria’s break-up Several other eminent Nigerians who spoke on critical national issues, criticised calls for the disintegration of the country and urged all Nigerians to work for peaceful coexistence.

Leading the pack, former Information Minister, Prof.

Jerry Gana, described those calling for disintegration of the country as shallowminded and warned them to refrain from peddling uncouth utterances. He noted that it was the design of providence for President Jonathan who is from the South-South to hold sway as President, and called on other geo-political zones to support the President to succeed.

He also appealed to any aggrieved section of the country to give peace a chance by embracing dialogue and negotiation to move the nation forward.

He said: “I am amazed at the shallow wisdom of those calling for the breakup of

From left: Oba Rilwan Akiolu, Oba of Lagos; Governor Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State; Mrs. Joke Orelope Adefulire, Deputy Governor; Mr. Babatunde Disu, MD/CEO, LAGBUS Asset Management Limited and Wale Oshun, ACN chieftain, during the launch of Murtala Muhammed Way (Yaba-OyingboIddo) dedicated corridor and commissioning of LAGBUS Franchise Scheme, in Yaba, Lagos, yesterday.

Photo: Bunmi Azeez.

E.K. Clark to northern elite: Call Boko Haram to order Other eminent leaders vow to resist Nigeria’s disintegration Nigeria without knowing the colossal consequences.

We from the Middle Belt are totally committed to protecting the peace, well-being and territorial integrity of Nigeria. The formulation of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is in the best interest of the minority groups.

Maybe the majority groups will want to go away, we the small small groups want Nigeria to continue.

“By the grace of God, we will not blow up under President Goodluck Jonathan. South South arise and shine your time has come, and make sure that during your time, Ni-

geria is solidly together.”

Jonathan needs our collective support —Ogoriba Speaking in the same vein, convener of the parley, Elder T. K. Ogoriba, urged leaders from other geo-political zones to reciprocate the support and sacrifices that the South-South people had accorded past leaders of the nation by joining hands with the Jonathan administration towards nation building, He said: “Goodluck Ebele Jonathan is a symbol of leadership today. He needs our collective support. It is

not at this time Nigeria will break up. We will not allow that. We have made a lot of sacrifices with our blood and with our resources.

Why will it be that it is when President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, our son, is ruling that things are going sour security-wise?

“In the past, other geopolitical zones have given support to previous leaders.

Therefore, today it is the turn of the son of the SouthSouth. We want to appeal that the cooperation of yesteryears be accorded to a man from the South-South.

We need the support of every Nigerian to make Nigeria a big success.

Reinstatement of 34 doctors mere propaganda —NMA Says delay may lead to escalation of crisis

BY CHIOMA OBINNA

AGOS — THE Lagos State Chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association, NMA, yesterday, condemned the purported reinstatement of 34 sacked doctors by the state government, saying, it is mere ”government propaganda.”

The doctors are also demanding immediate resolution of the crisis to prevent further escalation of the crisis.

At a press conference in Lagos to review the ongoing face-off between the state government and the Medical Guild, the

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state Chairman of the NMA, Dr Edamisan Temiye, said the alleged reinstated doctors were not among the initially sacked doctors as some were on leave and others on study leave when the lingering crisis erupted.

“We have it on good authority that these doctors were neither sacked nor queried,“ he said.

Temiye who further accused the state government of being unwilling to end the crisis, noted that every effort to mediate in the matter had ended in deadlock.

He said: “The governor is not ready to act. Is it possible for the Head of

Service and the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, LASUTH, Board to sack all its consultants without his approval?

“Is it possible to sack two thirds of a group of professionals without the governor’s approval? If the answer is no, then the governor has deceived all Lagosians and if the governor does not have power over people that he has selected to work for him then it is very sad.”

On the way forward, Temiye who said the indefinite solidarity strike had not been suspended called on the governor to act in his capacity as the governor to bring the current crisis to an

end without delay.

According to him, the governor should realise that further escalation of the crisis was undesirable and urged him to consider all the suggestions that had been put before him to end the crisis.

He further said NMA would be convening a national emergency meeting on June 2 to chart the way forward.

In a chat with journalists after the press briefing, chairman of the Lagos State Medical Guild, Dr Olumuyiwa Odusote, who confirmed the reinstatement of 34 doctors, however, said: “Many of the 34 doctors have called us and we told

them that whether you are on leave or resuming your leave and your association is on strike, and NMA has called the strike, you must join.

“The Medical Guild was on strike before most of us were sacked and that strike to my understanding has not been called off” Odusote who queried the purported reinstatement of the doctors said: “What are 34 doctors compared to 788 doctors?

The chairman who apparently suspected sell-out by some of the doctors, said: “In every 12 disciples there is supposed to be a Judas and that number (34) is 0.5 of 12.”

...FCT minister, Nkanga appeal to Nigerians Corroborating, Federal Capital Territory Minister, Senator Bala Mohammed, enjoined all Nigerians “to remove all elements of discord and rancour, and bring all our diversities into one basket of unity. President Jonathan has become more than a son to the Ijaws but a son to all Nigeria. It is not because of godfatherism that we are in his cabinet but the drive to perform. He is a strong leader and we are all bonded by patriotism and a common purpose to move Nigeria forward.”

Chairman of the occasion, Air Commodore Idongesit Nkanga (rtd), admonished all leaders and players in the polity to be considerate in their utterances, noting that “part of the solutions to Nigeria’s problems lies with us all. We must all learn to live together or we will be forced to perish together.

Today Nigeria has come of age and we should do away with childish things.”

Keynote speaker at the occasion, Justice Aldophus Karibi-Whyte, attributed the nation’s woes to individuals who had become incorrigible, adding:“Except individuals change their orientation for the better, we will continue to have rotten institutions. Our coexistence should be predicated on the golden rule by Jesus Christ: Do not do unto others what you will not want them do to you.”

VANGUARD, WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012—7

BY BEN AGANDE

BUJA — PRESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan declared, yesterday, that though the country was facing some challenges, especially in the area of security, he would discharge his responsibility in accordance with his oath of office and ensure that the life and property of every Nigerian is protected.

Speaking on the country’s democratic journey 13 years after, President Jonathan said his government would confront this (terrorism) “threat against our collective peace and security, and bring the perpetrators to justice. We will confront the few misguided persons who falsely believe that through violence, they can impose their agenda of hate and division on this nation of good people.

"We must confront all those who think they can derail us by engaging in indiscriminate violence and mass murder, perpetrated in places of worship, in markets and public places, against the media, and security personnel. Nigeria is a nation of resilient people.

We will never yield to the forces of darkness. Nigeria will never, ever, disintegrate.”

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Enjoins Nigerians to be loyal The president further enjoined all Nigerians to “be loyal to our country. If we believe this to be a sacred obligation, it will not matter whether we are Christians or Muslims, or politicians, irrespective of political parties or divide. It really will not matter whether we are civil society agents, social activists or union leaders. What matters is Nigeria. This nation exists because we are one. We must, therefore, remain as one family and work together to defend our country.”

Achievements of his administration Speaking on the achievements of his administration, President Jonathan said though there were challenges, he was determined to ensure that these challenges were over come.

He said: “Our democracy is stable. Its foundation is strong and firm. Its future is bright. Last year, I had spoken about the policy of 'one man one vote, one woman, one vote, one youth, one vote.' I am glad to see that the Nigerian people in all elections have continued to respect the principle of fair play. Since this administration came into office, we have gone to great lengths to strengthen our democratic institutions, particularly the Independent National Electoral Commission. There are still per-

sons who believe that elections should be violent and unhealthy, but they are in the minority.”

On corruption He reiterated that his administration was committed to fighting corruption, saying that though concrete steps have been taken to strengthen the leadership of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and the Independent Corrupt Practices and other Offences Commission, these agencies would need the support of the courts to ensure that corrupt persons are convicted and made to face the full wrath of the law.

According to the president, "the courts will have to do more in the area of fighting corruption in the country that they are doing now.

“I want to reassure all Nigerians that this administration remains committed to waging a sustained battle against the menace of corruption. In the last one year, we have taken specific steps to reduce opportunities and avenues for corruption, and to strengthen the capacity and integrity of our institutions.

“We have strengthened the leadership of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC). Both agencies are being re-positioned for more effective service delivery. We will continue to strengthen the law enforcement and anticorruption agencies for optimal performance. We will also need the support of our courts. The courts have to do more.”

On agriculture In the area of agriculture, the president said the ultimate aim of his administration was "directed at promoting local production, substituting for imported foods, and adding value to our locally produced crops.

Government’s policy to ensure rice self-sufficiency by 2015 is already paying off."

He said the emergence of new rice mills by the private sector to mill locally produced rice as see by Ebony Agro Industries in Ikwo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, Umza rice mill in Kano State and the Ashi Rice Mill in Benue State are indications that government action in the agricultural sector especially on rice production is yielding results.

On oil and gas sector In the oil and gas sector, Jonathan said his administration had charted a new course that would ensure enduring transparency and accountability, adding that his administration has commited N11 billion provided in the 2012 Budget

Governor Liyel Imoke of Cross River State receiving model of a ship from a secondary school pupil, Mr. David Henshaw of Calabar South during the 2012 Children's Day celebration, in Calabar, Monday.

Jonathan promises to tackle corruption, terrorism for Hydro-Carbon exploration in the Lake Chad Basin.

“We are re-drafting the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) to ensure it meets the aspirations of all stakeholders given the current realities and future expectations in the global energy landscape. Work on the PIB will be concluded in June 2012 and formally submitted to the National Assembly. Additionally, Special Task Forces dealing with Governance and Control, Petroleum Revenue and National refineries are finalizing their work to ensure probity across the oil and gas sector, and selfsufficiency in refined petroleum products."

Power sector On the power sector, the president said the commitment of his administration to the provision of regular and uninterrupted power supply remained strong and unwavering, pointiong out that "adequate and regular power supply will be the significant trigger to enhance this nation’s productive capacity and accelerate growth.

“It is for this reason that I remain optimistic that the reforms we have initiated, the decisions we have taken so far and the plans we intend to faithfully prosecute will yield the desired results."

Way forward for Jonathan, by Reps Meanwhile, members of the House of Representatives, yesterday reacted, to President Jonathan’s democracy day broadcast, saying the president

should not pay lip service to the issues of security and governance while others asked him to tread softly and face governance headlong.

Mohammed Zakari, House Committee Chairman on Media and Public Affairs, said “Mr president should first and foremost call his constituency to order as comments by activists like Asari Dokubo are capable of over heating the polity. “ On his readiness to combat acts of terrorism in the country, Zakari stated that”nobody wants terror, government should get proactive and stop playing lip service to the issue of security.”

Hon Toby Okechukwu, Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Ethics and Privileges said”it is important to give sometime to governance in other jurisdictions there is time for governance. Abandoning governance for politics one year into a tenure is not a good omen. “ On his part, House Committee Chairman on Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs and Amnesty Programme, Hon Warman Ogoriba said ”well, I think that Mr President is right because some politicians are playing politics with an issue that is considered a national security.

“Politicians should try to differentiate between politics and issues that undermine our collective interest as one indivisible nation.”

Nigerians task Jonathan on development Nigerians, yesterday in Lagos expressed diverse

expectations from him.

Some told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in separate interviews that although Jonathan did not perform badly in the past one year, but that he needed to do more.

The Leader of the Oodua Peoples’ Congress (OPC), Dr Frederick Fasheun, hailed Jonathan for holding the country together under a democratic system.

“Jonathan has not been doing too badly at least for holding the country together under what is called seeming democracy.

“The entire system had been damaged before he came in to office so let us give him peace of mind to work hard after all he has four years to his first term,” he said.

Also speaking, President, Aviation Round Table, Capt. Dele Ore, also agreed that Jonathan had not performed badly in his one year in office.

“I think his one year in office has been very okay but we expect that his second year in office, Nigerians will get power and have a secured environment so that every one will feel safe whereever they are no matter which tribe they are.

“He also has to really take seriously the issue of youth unemployment as well as tackling very seriously the issue of corruption besides these I think everything seems to be okay and we wish him all the best,” he said.

However, the Executive Secretary of Campaign for Constitutionalism and Human Rights (CCHR),

Mr Toyin Raheem, did not agree that Jonathan did well in his office.

“We expect that as he commences his second year by tomorrow, he should ensure that he put in place machineries to ensure that we have a sovereign national conference because it has become important that we have it.

“It is important for Nigerians to come together to decide the way we should live as Nigerians in the face of the security, unemployment and civil unrest everywhere in the land,” he said.

Locomotive assembly plant The Federal Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with General Electric (GE) to establish a locomotive assembly plant in the country.

President Jonathan disclosed this in his broadcast yesterday.

Jonathan said the project would enhance the sustainability in the rail sector and make Nigeria a major hub in West and Central Africa.

The President said the administration was committed to efficient and affordable public transport system.

He said the transformation agenda in the road sector would deliver better and safer roads to Nigerians and link the six geo-political zones in the country with dual carriageways.

“There have been increased construction activities in the ongoing dualisation of Abuja–Abaji– Lokoja Road, Kano– Potiskum–Maiduguri Road.”

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Vanguard , WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012—8

DEMOCRACY DAY CELEBRATION ACROSS THE NATION States across the federation marked Democracy Day with various events, yesterday. PHOTOS:Dare Fasube, Bunmi Azeez, Nath Onojake, Wunmi Akinola and Ola Ajayi

Alhaji Tajudeen Bello State Chairman ACN, Senator Oluremi Tinubu and Senator President Goodluck Jonathan addressing the nation, yes- Gbenga Obadara at the presentation of Governor Amosun's scorecard in Ogun terday. STATE HOUSE PHOTO. State From left— Mr. Lateef Ibirogba, Commissioner of Infoprmation and Strategy; Mrs. Mobolaji Johnson; Brigadier Mobolaji Johnson (rtd), former Governor of Lagos State; Governor Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State; Alh. Lateef Jakande, former Governor of Lagos State; Mrs. Joke Orelope-Adefulire, Deputy Governor; and Alh. Abiodun Sunmola, National Deputy Chairman, Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN, at the governor's handing-over of Lagos Traffic Radio, 98.1 FM, in Lagos, yesterday.

Governor Olusegun Mimiko of Ondo State (middle); Chief Obayoriade Oladutele, Chairman, South-West Zone and Ondo State Chapter of National Union of Road Transport Workers, NURTW (2nd right); Mr. Nicholas Tofomowo, Ondo State Commissioner for Transport, (3rd right); Chief Olu Falae (left); Bishop Michael Ipinmoye, Bishop of Akure Anglican Diocese, and Alhaji Najim Yasin,National President, NURTW, at the inauguration of the ultra-modern motor park at Ondo Road, Akure, yesterday.

From left— Prof. Amos Utuama (SAN), Deputy Governor of Delta State; HRM. AVM Lucky Ararile, Awaeke I, Ovie of Ummaigwa-Abraka; HRM Sideso, Ovie of Uvwie, at the seminar on democracy.

From left— Mr. Rasaq Atunwa, Speaker, Kwara State House of Assembly; Senator Bukola Saraki; Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed of Kwara State; his wife, Mrs Omolewa Ahmed, and wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs Felicia Kisra, cutting Democracy Day cake at the Kwara State Metropolitan Square, Ilorin, yesterday.

From left— Oba Rilwan Akiolu of Lagos; Governor Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State; Mrs. Joke Orelope-Adefulire, Deputy Governor; Mr. Babatunde Disu, MD/CEO, LAGBUS Asset Management Limited, and Mr. Wale Oshun, ACN Chieftain, during the official launching of Murtala Mohammed Way (Yaba-Oyingbo-Iddo) dedicated corridor and commissioning of LAGBUS franchising scheme in Yaba, Lagos.

Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, Alaafin of Oyo (left) and Governor Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State at the inter-faith prayer service to commemorate his first year in office in Ibadan, yesterday.

Governor Patrick Yakowa of Kaduna State (middle) commissioning Hayin Danmani road contruction project in Kaduna, yesterday.

From left— Mr. Monsurat Sumonu, Governor Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State, Mrs Florence Ajimobi, Chief Moses Adeyemo, Deputy Governor, and Janet, his wife, at the inter-faith prayer service.

From right—Otunba Adebayo Alao-Akala, former governor of Oyo State, guest lecturer; Mr. Dosu Oladipo, and Mr. Ganiyu Ayobami Olaoluwa, Osun State PDP Chairman, during the Democracy Day lecture held at WOCDIF Centre, Osogbo, yesterday.

Vanguard , WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012—9

Fashola insists he can't reabsorb sacked doctors Inaugurates historic traffic radio

BY OLASUNKANMI AKONI & MONSUR OLOWOOPEJO

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BEYOND IMAGINATION, KSA & OBEY ON STAGE:From left, Juju music maestro, King Sunny Ade, KSA; Apostle Moses Olaiya, Baba Sala; Won kere si number wa crooner, Fatai Rolling Dollar, comperes, and Miliki King-turned Evangelist, Dr. Ebenezer Fabiyi-Obey, at the much-hyped OLEKU concert, in Lagos, Sunday.

KEJA—GOVERNOR Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State, yesterday, urged the sacked striking doctors in the state to channel their appeal through the Health Service Commission, to clear any issue that might have led to their sack, if they were still interested in getting reinstated and put an end to the crisis in

...begs Lagosians not to chase investors away, flags off BRT franchise scheme

BY MONSUR OLOWOOPEJO

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KEJA—GOVERNOR Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State, yesterday, decried the high level of fraud in private organisations in the state, urging employed youths to desist from sabotaging investors.

Fashola, added that the

state Ministry of Justice will begin the prosecution of traders and commercial motorcycle operators who flout traffic laws in the state, especially on the Bus Rapid Transport, BRT, corridors in the state.

At the inauguration of the Murtala Muhammed Way Yaba-Oyingbo-Iddo and the 304 LAGBUS Bus Franchise Scheme, in

Lagos, Fashola said the measure will reduce unemployment rate in the state.

He said: “As investors are coming to invest in the country, there was need for us all to remember that without these people’s faith and the efforts of the state government to lure investors to the country, there will be no employment for thousands

of youth.

“You are the pioneers, who have got the privilege to work for these investors, do not sabotage them. This is because there are still thousands of unemployed youths in the state, who are looking for the same opportunity that you have today. If these opportunities continue, unemployment will be reduced drastically.”

the health sector.

He said he had no power to reabsorb the sacked doctors.

The governor, at a live broadcast and handing over of Lagos Traffic Radio 96.1FM as part of activities to mark his fifth anniversary and Democracy Day, said the issue between the doctors and the government could best be resolved by the appropriate authorities, who were in charge of their employment and firing.

Fashola appeared on a live LTV interactive session with Deputy Managing Director of SUN Newspapers, Mr. Femi Adesina; Editor of THISDAY Newspaper, Mr. Simon Kolawole; Talk Show producer, Agatha Amatha and broadcaster, Aderoju Adepoju, and other panelists, to commission the Traffic Radio.

He said the state Health Service Commission was

the one saddled with the responsibility of determining the fate of the doctors, and urged them to take the first step of appealing their dismissal.

He said: “I can’t reverse the sack, it is not in my powers to do so. I won’t be able to do so, just as I cannot effect their promotion, it is the HMC that will promote them and I won’t be here after three years, so it’s not about me, it’s about institutions.”

Handing over Lagos Traffic Radio 96.1 FM to Lagos residents as part of dividends of democracy to achieve a more happy and safe motoring in the state, he explained that the traffic radio will help pedestrians and motorists decide on the best way of getting to their destinations on time, adding that the radio will also avail motorists the opportunity of managing their time and money well.

10—VANGUARD , WEDNESDAY, MAY 30,

2012

Osun shuns Democracy Day celebration

Insists on June 12

Wants institution named after Abiola in Abuja

BY GBENGA OLARINOYE

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AGRIC DEAL: From left, Mr. Olajide Basorun, Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives; Prince Gbolahan Lawal, Commissioner , and Rev. Fr. Godfrey Nzamujo, Director, Songhai Centre, Porto-Novo, Benin Republic, at the signing of memorandum of understanding between Lagos State and Songhai Centre on integrated agriculture in Lagos, Monday.

SOGBO—OSUN State Government, yesterday, stayed off from the celebration of Democracy Day, claiming that the day chosen by the Federal Government was not truly the democracy day.

The government also faulted the renaming of University of Lagos, UNILAG, after the assumed winner of the June 12,1993 presidential election, Chief Moshood

How we surmounted challenges in Oyo, by Ajimobi

BY OLA AJAYI

B A D A N — GOVERNOR Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State said his administration faced a lot of challenges, but he was able to overcome them by the power of God. He pledged that within the next three years, his government would leave exemplary achievements in the state.

Mean time, Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, and Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Alhaji Abdul-Azeez Arisekola Alao, had commended the governor for his performance in the last one year.

Justifying his claims that his administration had recorded tremendous achievements since last year, Senator Ajimobi commissioned the ultramodern Temidire Motor Park on the new IbadanIfe Expressway, AjibodeShasha Road, BenjaminEleiyele Road as well as Molete-Ehin Grammar Road, all within the Ibadan metropolis.

Gov. Ajimobi, at an interfaith prayer service as part of activities marking his first year in office, said, “when we came on board, there was a lot of decadence. Oyo State was practically at a standstill.

Besides, we also faced some challenges ranging from labour, students, security, flood disaster, House of Assembly to commerce. But because this is a government ordained by God Himself, we have been able to

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weather the storm and we thank God that Oyo State has not been the same again as we have made a lot of difference.”

He said violence and thuggery had been eliminated in the state.

At the event, at the Government House, Ajimobi remarked, “We have been able to record remarkable achievements, the first one being restoration of peace and security. In Oyo State, we want peace and tranquility. Enough of thuggery and brigandage.''

While thanking the people of the state for their cooperation, support and understanding, Ajimobi

promised that his administration would continue to make life worthy for the residents of the state.

The programme was attended by traditional rulers, religious leaders, members of the state

executive council, lawmakers and other eminent citizens of the state including Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi; Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Alhaji Abdul-Azeez Arisekola Alao.

Abiola, by President Goodluck Jonathan, in his nationwide broadcast, yesterday.

The state's Commissioner for Information and Strategy, in a telephone interview with newsmen, in Osogbo, stated that to the people of the state May 29 was not the ideal democracy day.

Governor Rauf Aregbesola had last year, at a public function to commemorate Democracy Day on May 29, declared that the state would no longer recognise the day as democracy day, but June 12 every year.

Aregebsola stressed that “inasmuch as we do not have anything against the Federal Government recognising May 29 every year as its democracy day, but for us in Osun State we will, as from next year, observe our democracy day on June 12.”

Akere stated that May 29 was a product of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, believed to have been won by Abiola.

He said: “To us in Osun

Kunlere backs FG's moves to dialogue with Boko Haram

BY DAYO JOHNSON KURE—THE S e n a t o r representing Ondo South at the National Assembly,

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Boluwaji Kunlere, yesterday, supported moves by the Federal Government to dialogue with members of the Islamic sect, Boko Haram.

Kunlere, at an

interactive session with newsmen, said the National Assembly was in support of the move aimed at ending the killings across the North.

He said: “We must

New judges: Court urges Ekiti govt, NBA to seek out-of-court settlement

BY GBENGA ARIYIBI

DO-EKITI—T H E Federal High Court sitting in AdoEkiti has advised Ekiti State Government and the Ado- Ekiti Branch of the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, to settle out of court, the suit on the appointment of new High Court judges.

The Ado-Ekiti branch of the association under the chairmanship of Owoseni Ajayi had dragged Governor Kayode Fayemi to court over his refusal to ratify the appointment of two of the three judges recommended by the

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State and in the South- West generally, May 29 is not the ideal day to celebrate democracy day. For sure, the democracy we are enjoying today is a product of June 12.

“If truly we are to celebrate democracy day, it is June 12 and that is when Osun State will join other states in the South- West to celebrate it.”

On the naming of University of Lagos after Abiola, Akere said the winner of the June 12,1993 presidential election deserve more than that, arguing that naming an institution in Lagos had reduced the honour to regional level.

Akere said: “We believe that the late M.K.O. Abiola deserves more than that, and if truly President Goodluck Jonathan wants to honour Abiola as the martyr of democracy, he should have named an institution in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, after him. Naming an institution in Lagos after Abiola has localised the honour.”

National Judicial Council, NJC. In the case with suit number FHC-AD-CS06-2012, parties to the suit are, the Registered Trustees of NBA, Ekiti State Judicial Service Commission,AttorneyGeneral of Ekiti State, Emmanuel Adelodun and NJC. When the matter came up for hearing in the court, Monday, counsel to the claimantapplicant, Mr. Obafemi Adewale, informed the court that there were two processes before the court, namely an originating summons dated and filed on May 3, but signed by his Lordship on May 4, and

motion for an order of i n t e r l o c u t o r y injunction to restrain the respondents from carrying out a fresh exercise for the appointment of High Court judges in the state.

Adewale also objected to the a p p e a r a n c e o f M r.

R.O. Balogun for the respondent on the ground that he, Balogun is the chairman of NBA Ilorin Branch.

Responding,Balogun, who is a counsel to the 1st -3rd respondents, informed the court that he had filed a Notice of Pleliminary Objection against the

jurisdiction of the court in hearing the case,noting that once the issue of jurisdiction is raised, same must be determined first before his competence or otherwise to appear in any case could be determined.

H o w e v e r, t h e t r i a l judge, Justice E.A. Obile, advised the parties to resolve the issue out of court with a view to protecting the image of the legal profession.

The case was adjourned till June 25, to enable the parties to explore amicable settlement.

dialogue; the Senate is in support of dialogue; but the thing is that they must come out. When the Niger-Delta people were fighting, they came out and stated their grievances.

“If the dialogue must take place, we must know the people that will represent Boko Haram and not suicide bombers.”

Kunlere commended the amnesty programme of the Federal Government, saying it had drastically increased crude oil production.

He noted that before the introduction of the amnesty programme, crude oil production per day in the country had reduce to below 700,000 barrels which he said was not too good for the country.

The senator, a member of the House Committee on Niger-Delta, said, “the amnesty, although it may not be perfect, it is yielding fruitful results with the restoration of peace in the Niger-Delta area of the country.”

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012—11

Appoint Governing Council now, UNIBEN ASUU urges FG

BY SIMON EBEGBULEM ENIN—THE Aca demic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, University of Benin chapter, yesterday, appealed to the Federal Government to urgently reconstitute the University’s Governing Council to ensure the smooth running of the university.

Addressing newsmen in Benin City, Edo State, Chairman of ASUU in the university, Dr. Anthony Monye-Emina and Secretary, Dr. Tunde Adeleke, admonished the Federal Government not to re-appoint the chairman of the dissolved Council, to avoid industrial crisis in the university.

They said: “Our posi-

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COMMISSIONING: From right: Mr. Victor Olaiya, GM, Ventures Relations, Exxonmobil; Dr. Titilola Farri, President, Old Girls Association; Mr. Kehinde Obateru, Public Affairs Manager, NNPC/NAPIMS, being assisted by Mrs. Titi Amune, Principal; Mrs. Gloria Essien-Danner, GM, Public and Government Affairs, Exxonmobil and Mrs. Kolapo Jolayemi, at the commissioning of mordern intro-tech laboratory and toilet facilities at Reagan Memorial Baptist Girls Secondary School, Yaba, Lagos. Photo: Sylva Eleanya.

Democracy Day: Still a long way to go—Imoke

BY JOHNBOSCO AGBAKWURU ALABAR—AS the country marks 13 years of democratic rule, Governor Liyel Imoke of Cross River State has said that despite the remarkable success recorded within the period, especially in the state, the country still has a long way to go.

Imoke, in his statewide broadcast to mark the day, said as the country takes stock of the gains of embracing democracy, there was the need to celebrate the success so far recorded and identify the challenges that made the people stronger, united and more committed to the ideals and tenets of democracy.

He said: “We must do so with humility, knowing that despite the progress we have made, we still have a long way to go. Some of the inherent values of democracy

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include freedom of expression, association and choice of leaders. These tenets have been in generous display in recent times in our country.”

He noted that the conduct of the election that brought him into office for a second term was typically without violence and adjudged by Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, as a model for the entire country, adding that “it showed how much progress the state had made in the march

towards the enthronement of true democracy as the only option for our socio-economic development.

“Our performance in this administration demonstrates our firm belief that government should be there for those who need government the most. This is a pivotal part of the philosophy, which underpins this administration and exemplifies the true essence of democracy.

“In a thriving democracy such as ours, the real beneficiaries are the electorate. As a state, we

....As Uduaghan calls for unity

BY AKPOKONA OMAFUAIRE BRAKA—GOV ERNOR of Delta State, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, has called on Deltans to shun ethnic hatred and join hands in unity for rapid development of the state.

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The governor made the call yesterday, at Ekrejeta, Abraka, during the Democracy Day thanksgiving service.

Uduaghan warned that hatred only leads to destruction, citing the Rwandan genocide experience.

He also called on gov-

Ewherido moves to save Urhobo language

BY EMMANUEL AZIKEN

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ENATOR Pius Ewherido has instituted an Urhobo language competition among youths in Delta Central senatorial district of Delta State, as a means of reviving the language among the youths. The key attraction in the competition, which is open to Urhobo between 10 and 25 years, is a brand new car.

The competition, Senator Ewherido said, was

had endured several challenges to our democracy over the past 13 years. The process of transformation has been arduous and steep but we have persevered and we are succeeding.

“Despite the unexpected and sudden shortfall in our revenue profile brought about by geopolitical re-alignments and the various electoral interpretations to this administration, we had stayed on the course of growth and development for the benefit of our people."

in fulfillment of his election campaign promises, to check the language drift among youths in the senatorial district, who he claimed had lost the ability to communicate in the language.

Pledging his determination to revive fluent communication in the Urhobo language during a session with newsmen in his office, Ewherido, lamented that the language could go into extinction given the progressing failure of many Urhobo youths to speak

or write in the language.

He noted that the competition would hold in the eight local government areas of Delta Central senatorial district with competitors being quizzed on topics including, “traditional idioms of the Urhobo people to test their understanding of the language, Urhobo cultural attributes, innuendos, story telling, translations from English to Urhobo, essay writing, debates among other considerations.”

ernment officials to use the remaining days in office judiciously in order to surpass the achievements of the past five years.

Uduaghan cautioned opposition, critics and journalists to be aware of the powers of a governor.

He said: “The governor has enormous powers and can do whatever thing he desires. The governor has the power to demolish any house and has the power to even kill. But when he leaves office, all the powers are gone. I have not used up to 10 percent of my powers.

“We need the spirit of unity, everybody cannot love you. Ethnic hatred caused several killings in Rwanda, hatred can cause severe crisis. Hatred does not pay instead it destroys. My campaign in this period is against hatred, we must stop hating one another.”

tion is underscored by the fact that the Federal Government and stakeholders in the universities are desirous of getting results from the resources infused into the system. The union will not accept or tolerate a Pro-Chancellor or Chairman of Council who frowns at every policy in favour of staff welfare.”

It will be recalled that the former chairman of the Council, Sir Gabriel Tobi, had reacted to the allegations against him

by ASUU in the past, and described them as untrue and mischievous, saying: “I brought back peace to the university by ensuring that the best person emerged as the VC through due process irrespective of where he came from.”

Human rights activist, Babatunde Omatseye, is dead

BY GODWIN OGHRE

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APELE—HUMAN rights activist and 'Commander' of former Niger Delta Revolution Force For Peace, Comrade Babatunde Omatseye a.k.a. Erebeni, is dead, aged 59.

He died on July 5, at Delta State University Teaching Hospital, Oghara, after a protracted illness.

A native of Ode Itsekiri in Warri South Local Government Area, Delta State, Comrade Omatseye attended Children Home School, Ibadan, from 1959 to 1965; St. Malachy's College, Sapele, from 1960 to 1970, before proceeding to Philadelphia Institute of Technology, USA, where he bagged a degree in Business Administration in 1980.

Comrade Omatseye returned to Nigeria in 1981 and joined his father ’s business empire, K.B. Organisation, which consists of K. B. Rubber Nigeria Limited; Afro Tankers Limited and Niger Delta Shipping Agency, as a Director. He was also Chairman of Bari Nigeria Limited, a foremost marine equipment leasing company. He was one of the earliest Nigerians to secure a license for cement importation, under the military regime of General Ibrahim Babangida and was

a foremost cement importer in the '80s.

His father, Prince K. B. Omatseye, told Vanguard in Sapele, yesterday, that he would miss the business acumen and sagacity of the late activist, saying that the late Babatunde Omatseye, who was his second son, lived a successful life.

Comrade Omatseye is survived by widow, Rita, several brothers, including Sir Sunny Omatseye, former Chairman of Warri North Local Government Area; Tuoyo Omatseye, Managing Director, Woodland Company, Sapele; Temi Omatseye, former Director-General of NIMASA; Ete Omatseye, Managing Director of Hamshire Hotel Sapele, sisters, children and a grand child.

According to his younger brother, Tony Omatseye, the activist would be buried on July 6, 2012.

Late Babatunde Omatseye

12—Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012

Outrage, kuods over renaming of Unilag Continues from Page 5 Yoruba people.

"First, the University is still mourning the death of its Vice Chancellor, Prof. Sofoluwe and the president just decided to disturb the peace of the university community with this asinine action that shows that the gate to hell is paved with the best intentions. The president may have meant well, but he has done a wrong thing that should be reversed immediately."

President Jonathan committed illegality -House Leader Minority leader of the House of Representatives, Mr Femi Gbajabiamila has described the change of the University of Lagos

by President Goodluck Jonathan as an illegality which would be challenged in the court of law.

Mr Gbajabiamila pointed out the illegality in President Jonathan’s democracy day announcement yesterday after having read the President’s broadcast.

Speaking with Vanguard he said, “the President does not have unilateral power to change the name of the University because the University of Lagos was established by the act of National Assembly which cannot be amended or changed by Presidential pronouncement.

“Lagos University was established by the Act of National Assembly known as University of Lagos Act. Section one of that Act clearly spelt out that there shall be a University known as University of Lagos. “If you want to change the name of that University, you have to come by way of amendment to the Act. So there is no President that can change the name

except it is changed by the National Assembly.

The President’s declaration is illegal and I will instruct my lawyers to file a suit on that today."

had already been named after him him, I think the President would have chosen another national monument that would be universally acceptable

by Nigerians.”

MKO Abiola deserves more than that —Afenifere

Jonathan did well, but Nigeria needs good governance — Frank Kokori

National leader of PanYor uba organisation, Afenifere, Pa Fasoranti welcomed the decision but argued that the late Abiola deserves more than what the federal government has done to immortalise him.

According to him, “that was a right decision because Abiola was the people’s choice, the whole nation accepted him as their leader. The honour is well deserved because we have always clamored that the man be imortalised. I will agree that he deserves more than that, an institution

On his part, one time secretary of NUPENG, Chief Frank Kokori lauded the decision but was of the view that there is need for President Jonathan to provide good governance in the country.

It’s a step in the right direction — Adebanjo When asked for his views, he said: “Why not, it is a step in the right direction. I heard some people have been criticising it, we should praise somebody who has recognised that Abiola should be immortalised. What about somebody who was there for eight years, what did he do? It is the spirit which he has done that we should commend; it is unfair not to acknowledge the fact that all that we have agitating for is for him to listen to the voice of the people. We are talking of somebody who has done something, what about somebody who did nothing? The fact that he as done something, he should be commended.

That is my own stand”.

SNG faults decision THE Save Nigeria Group, SNG, has rejected the renaming of University of Lagos after late Chief MKO Abiola describing it as an abuse of power by President Goodluck Jonathan.

In a statement by the group’s spokesman, Mr Yinka Odumakin, he said “ while acknowledging the eternal place of Bashorun M.K.O Abiola, the winner of June 12 elections, in the political history of Nigeria and would want the highest possible honor done to him; deplores the indecent manner in which President Goodluck Jonathan has re-named the University of Lagos after him.”

While it faulted the renaming of the tertiary institution, SNG said it

was a violation of the principles and tenets of democracy.

Choice of UNILAG is wrong —Ayo Opadokun Former GeneralSecretary of NADECO, Mr Ayo Opadokun said: “I will commend the President for breaking the jinx on the clamour for the immortalisation of Chief MKO Abiola. As to the kind of honour that Abiola deserves, I will say that this is a step because the current democracy that we have today became meaningful as a result of Abiola’s martyrdom.

However, I dont believe that the thought of naming UNILAG after MKO Abiola was right. I have my reservations but this is my comments for now.”

The National VicePresident, Academic Staff Union of Universities, (ASUU), Dr Nasir Fagge, argued that the renaming of the university was a welcome development to democracy. “It is a welcome development to the country’s democracy.

The government has the right to rename any institution or national monument,” he said.

But Prof.

Ralph Akinfeleye, Head of the Department of Mass Communication in the university, criticised the renaming of the institution. Describing it as a misplaced priority, the don noted that the announcement came at a time when the university was still mourning the death of its Vice Chancellor, Prof.

Adetokunbo Sofoluwe.

“The renaming came at a wrong time and it was not done in accordance with the law establishing the institution. “It is not a wrong thing to honour the late Abiola, who sacrificed so much during his life time for democracy, but the process and choice of institution, is wrong". “ Abiola was not a sectional leader. If any honour should be given to him, it should be done in the Federal Capital Territory,” Akinfeleye also told NAN. He suggested that the national stadium or the University of Abuja should be named after the late politician.

Another UNILAG lecturer, Dr Jide Oluwajuyitan, said the late Abiola was bigger than the university and

should be accorded a better national honour.

Oluwajuyitan, a lecturer in the Department of Political Science, noted that most of the current students might not know Abiola and the significance of naming the school after him. “ Abiola is bigger than UNILAG and he deserves more honour in Abuja and not in the South-West where he hailed from”.

In his comment, human rights lawyer, Mr Bamidele Aturu, said:“It is a welcome development, but it is not enough.

“What is more important is for Nigerians to reap the dividends of the democracy that Abiola died for.

The Founder of the Odu’a People’s Congress (OPC), Dr Frederick Faseun, said the renaming had “downgraded the university”.

“Abiola was my very good friend, but I still do not support the naming of the University of Lagos after him based on local sentiment.

“Obviously, Abiola merits any democratic concept that could be named after him, but his aspirations had nothing to do with a university of the status of UNILAG,” he said.

Prof. Pat Utomi, the 2011 Presidential Candidate of the Social Democratic Mega Party (SDMP), also told NAN that it was a good thing to name a monument after Abiola, but more consultations should have been held to determine what was most suitable.

Sagay, others differ Some prominent lawyers on Tuesday expressed mixed reactions over the decision of the Federal Government to rename the University of Lagos (UNILAG) in honour of the late Chief MKO Abiola.

The lawyers gave their views in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos.

A constitutional lawyer, Prof. Itse Sagay (SAN), said the president should be praised for his effort to immortalise Abiola, adding that he, however, made a wrong choice in choosing UNILAG.

Vanguard , WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012—13

Elechi warns warring communities in Ebonyi...says 'no peace, no amenity'

BY PETER OKUTU

BAKALIKI— GOVERNOR Martin Elechi of Ebonyi State yesterday, warned that communities involved in communal wars would no longer enjoy infrastructural development as the state government was determined to implement its policy on “No peace, No Amenity” in the affected c o m m u n i t i e s .

Elechi who spoke on the

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Democracy Day, noted that his administration would terminate on-going projects in any warring zone in the s t a t e .

According to him, the decision was necessary in view of the widespread communal clashes which had bedeviled the state over the last one year, stressing that some of the crises were older than his administration, but that they were aggravated on account of political b i t t e r n e s s .

He said: “I want to make it clear that this

administration will not waste its time in trying to provide social amenities in any community unless peace is guaranteed. Our policy of no peace, no amenity shall apply strictly; and even where projects are already on-going, we shall not hesitate to terminate same, if public peace is t h r e a t e n e d . ” The governor said he would engage 50 youths in the weeks ahead to deflate tyres of illegally parked vehicles on the streets of the state capital.

According to the

governor, the employment of the youths was to ensure strict adherence to the environmental cleanliness by all and sundry in the s t a t e .

He also assured of his administration’s readiness to commence development of the main campus of stateowned university, at Ezzamgbo, Ohaukwu Local Government Area, saying “government shall be ruthless with those who have erected illegal structures or have embarked on indiscriminate tilling of the university land.”

BY CHIDI NKWOPARA WERRI—IMO State Governor, Chief Rochas Okorocha, has affirmed that security remains a big challenge to his administration, even as former governor Chief Achike Udenwa, appealed to Okorocha to address the security challenge before it consumed everybody.

Okorocha and Udenwa spoke during a stakeholders’ meeting, as part of the first year anniversary of the administration.

Udenwa warned that the security situation had deteriorated to an extent that people no longer fancy coming home and urged Okorocha and the security agencies to change their operational tactics.

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Insecurity in Imo: Okorocha expresses worry •As Udenwa appeals to him Meantime, Okorocha said he had in the past year, saved N10.6 billion through re-negotiation of previous contracts, as well as earned millions of Naira from the new managers of Imo Palm Plantation, Ohaji.

“I recall that Concorde Hotel, Owerri, was leased out to a firm, by the past (Achike Udenwa) administration for 12 years but instead of making returns to government, they slammed a N450 million bill on the state”, Okorocha said.

He said government had ordered over one million school bags, uniforms, shoes, vests and other items for distribution to school children, noting that his commitment to free education was irrevocable.

“There cannot be any future for Imo State if there is no future for the children.

We have equally introduced bursary to school children”, Okorocha said.

Alleged seizure of 25 containers: Reps to wade into crisis

BY TOMMY ANADUAKA

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HE House of Representatives Committee on Industry, has expressed disappointment over alleged seizure and auctioning of 25 containers belonging to an industrialist, Chief Innocent Chukwuma.

The committee said it was amazed by the action of the Nigeria Customs Service and have promised to wade into the matter.

The Committee on Industry which were on a working visit of Innoson Plastic Plant at Emene Enugu, was shocked when the Chairman of the Company, Chief Chukwuma, explained how the Customs impounded the components imported for the assembly of motorcycles

by Innoson Nigeria Limited, which were later sold to unknown buyers without compensation to his company.

14—Vanguard , WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012

Police rescue 96-yr-old woman from suspected kidnappers in Enugu

BY TONY EDIKE NUGU—THE antikidnap squad of Enugu State Police Command has rescued a 96-year-old Mrs. Theresa Okafor, who was abducted from her Imezi Owa village in Ezeagu local government area of Enugu State last Wednesday.

The victim, who is the mother of a retired Assistant Inspector General of Police, AIG, Dr. Anthony Okafor, was abducted and held hostage in a forest at Ezema village in Imezi Owa community.

The police said yesterday that the operatives of the anti-kidnap squad led by its C o m m a n d e r , Superintendent Stephen Osaghae, rescued the victim through painstaking e f f o r t .

The state Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Mr. Ebere Amaraizu, who confirmed the rescue of the woman, said she regained her freedom at midnight on Monday following a tip-off to the security operatives. ”The security operatives who acted on information, were able to record success as they stormed the thick forest located in a village called Ezema in Imezi Owa, Ezeagu axis of Enugu State where the victim was held hostage.

The kidnappers on noticing the presence of the security operatives immediately opened fire on them and in the ensuing gun duel, one of the hoodlums sustained severe injuries while another died at the spot and two others escaped into the thick forest with severe bullet wounds,” he said.

The police spokesman appealed to members of the public, particularly medical doctors in the state to watch out for people with bullet wounds who might come to their hospital for treatment

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to promptly alert security a g e n c i e s .

He said the arrested hoodlum was already

helping the police in their investigations.

L-R : Dr. Stella Okoli, OON, (Founder) makes a point at a bress briefing organized by the Chike Okoli foundation.

She is flanked left and right by board members Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa and Chief Taiwo Taiwo..

Anambra PDP gives police 7-day ultimatum Over alleged disruption of planned rally

BY VINCENT UJUMADU

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VISIT—Chairman, House of Reps Committee on Industry, Mohammed Onawo (left); Chief Innocent Chukwuma, Chairman, Innoson Plastic Plant Ltd, Emene, Enugu State and other committee members during a visit to the company.

...stop rights groups, PDP from

holding rallies

BY VINCENT UJUMADU WKA— IT was a bad day for a coalition of human rights organisations and the People's Democratic Party, PDP, in Anambra State yesterday as stern –looking policemen stopped their planned rallies to mark this year’s Democracy Day in the state.

While the human right organisations led by the Civil Liberties Organization, CLO, was to hold their rally at the Emmaus House, having paid for the use of the venue, the PDP invited stakeholders in the state, including Governor Peter Obi and former Vice President, Dr. Alex Ekwueme to address the rally.

However, hundreds of people who traveled to Awka for the two events were not allowed into the

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venues as policemen and State Security Service, SSS, told them that an order from above directed that the rallies should not take place.

Anambra State chairman of CLO, Comrade Allysius Attah who addressed newsmen on the development, said they were surprised that such a thing could take place on a day Nigerians were

celebrating democracy day.

He said: “There was a siege of armed policemen at the venue as if we were terrorists and all the people who wanted to participate at the rally were turned back. We paid for a space at Emmaus House to hold an open forum on the need for the state government to conduct local government election.

Imo workers to begin strike today

BY CHIDI NKWOPARA

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WERRI—BARRING last minute suspension, Imo State workers will today commence an indefinite industrial action over unresolved industrial dispute with the state government.

The threat was contained in a statement by the State Public Service Negotiating Council, SPSNC, Trade Union Side, signed by the State

Chairmen of Joint Negotiating Council, JNC, and Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, Comrade Coleman Okwara and Dr. Reginald Anyadike respectively and four others.

The circular read: “Labour has observed with dismay and consternation that government, in its usual disposition, has reneged by refusing to sign the agreement jointly reached with labour.”

NUGU—ANAMBRA State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, yesterday issued a seven-day ultimatum to the state police command to pay it N334.95 as damages for allegedly disrupting its planned democracy day rally in Awka yesterday.

Though the party had on May 24, 2012 applied to the Anambra State commissioner of police for security at its state headquarters for the democracy day rally, which took place yesterday, the state deputy commissioner of police, Mr. Agyole Abeh, in a reply dated May 28, 2012 urged the party to postpone the rally to a later date in view of what he called ‘security situation’.

But in a letter addressed to the CP yesterday, the state chairman of PDP, Prince Kenneth Emeakayi, said the cancellation of the rally was belated, arguing that by the time the reply for security came to PDP

office by 6.00 pm on Monday, after every arrangement for the rally had been completed.

According to him, the party had already spent N8.95 million for buses that conveyed party members from the 326 political wards in the state and also paid for food, drinks, canopies, seats, music, hotel accommodation, dance troupes, among others, asking police to refund the money to the party.

He also demanded that the police should pay N1 million to each of the 326 political wards in the state as a compensation for wasting the precious time of the people who trouped to Awka for the rally, only to be dispersed by stern – looking policemen.

Emeakayi demanded for a letter of apology from the police to be published in two national newspapers in Nigeria, threatening that if the police failed to meet the demands within seven days, the party would have no other option than to seek redress in a law court.

Vanguard , WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012—15

UNIVERSITY OF LAGOS STUDENTS PROTEST CHANGE OF NAME

Students of University of Lagos, UNILAG, now Moshood Abiola University, Lagos, protesting the change of name and disrupting traffic flow in Lagos, yesterday. PHOTOS: Lamidi Bamidele.

16—Vanguard , WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012

Gombe commences work on Bomb threat mars Democracy Day celebration in Benue mini hydro-electric plant

BY PETER DURU Babangida, IBB, Square, with the aim of doing brisk defense and traffic warBY JOHN BULUS OMBE State govern ment has concluded plans to commence work on the Gombe State mini hydro-electric power plant and a second regional water supply scheme from Balanga Dam. Governor Ibrahim Dankwambo made this known during this year’s democracy day celebration in Gombe State, yesterday.

He said: “Preliminary designs and processes have been completed for a mini hydro-electric power plant

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as well as the second regional water supply scheme from Balanga Dam.” He said the projects, when completed, would augment power supply and provide water to five local governments in Gombe South and Central senatorial zones.

Dankwambo said agriculture was also receiving attention as the state government has so far spent N40 million in the rehabilitation of silted canals as well as repair of dam head, gates and access roads of the Balanga Dam.

... as Niger boosts agric with 100 tractors

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INNA—GOVER NOR Babangida Aliyu of Niger State, yesterday, said the government would distribute 100 tractors to farmers to boost food production in the state. The governor said this in a broadcast to the people of the state to mark Democracy Day. He said: “We are also

adopting the Drip Irrigation Scheme in the three agroecological zones of the state to boost year-round agriculture production with a view to creating employment for our youths, while enhancing food security in the state.”

He reiterated that education remains the government’s major priority.

AKURDI—ALLEGED threat by an Islamic sect to bomb Makurdi, Benue State capital, yesterday, stalled Democracy Day celebration in the city as the state government unofficially cancelled events.

The development forced the people who had thronged the Ibrahim

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venue of the ceremony to turn back home disappointed.

When Vanguard visited the venue, people were seen moving in and out of the venue, even as policemen were strategically positioned. Meanwhile, traders dealing in snacks, sachet water and ice cream, among others who had thronged the venue

business were also disappointed at the turn of events. A Police officer, who spoke to Vanguard on condition of anonymity, said they were deployed to the venue to provide security as was the tradition every year.

He said: “You can see the number of policemen here. Special Anti Robbery Squad, SARS, men of civil

Mimiko cautions NURTW members •Commission N152m Park

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NDO State Gover nor, Dr Olusegun Mimiko has advised members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, NURTW, to shun entreaties from any political party that may want to use them for political violence in the coming election, stressing that such people should be advised to make use of their children instead.

Mimiko who made the statement at the commissioning of a N152 million ultra-modern motor park along Ondo Road in Akure,

yesterday, lauded members of the union for their peaceful conduct, noting “there is no gain saying the fact that NURTW is a critical sector of the society and that any investment on the union cannot be a waste as it is their right to enjoy dividends of democracy. Now

that you have rebranded your union, you should resist all entreaties by selfserving politicians who might want to use you to cause mayhem during the coming governorship election, just tell them to go and use their children for such undemocratic purposes."

dens, among other security operatives are also here to discharge their duties, only to discover that there were no arrangements for any celebration today.”

Vanguard, however, reliably gathered that the decision by the state government to cancel the ceremony was as a result of a threat message allegedly being circulated in the town by members of a sect to bomb the town in the event of any celebration to mark the day.

Speaking on the development, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Dr. Cletus Akwaya, said the decision of government not to hold public celebration this year has nothing to do with security threat.

... as Jang calls for prayers, patriotism

BY TAYE OBATERU

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OS—GOVERNOR Jonah Jang of Plateau State has called for prayers, tolerance, sacrifice and patriotism as the country marks 13 years of democracy.

In a Democracy Day message to the people, the governor said: “Whatever challenges the nation is going through today, they are part of the learning process in

our democratic journey and the nation will come out stronger.”

He reaffirmed the commitment of the administration to giving the people good leadership anchored on her three-pillar policy to consolidate on the gains of democracy.

However, seven political parties under the aegis of the Conference of Nigeria Political Parties, CNPP, Jos

Chapter, has urged the governor to demonstrate the principle of justice and fairness in the distribution of basic amenities in the state.

In a statement on Democracy Day, the group faulted alleged concentration of road projects by the administration in a particular zone, asking that similar projects be extended to other areas.

JTF nabs militant ‘Commander' in Kano

BY ABDULSALAM MUHAMMAD ANO—JOINT Mili tary Task Force, JTF, yesterday, arrested a man suspected to be a top militant commander during an early morning raid that saw hundreds of operatives and military tanks strategically deployed.

JTF sources told Vanguard in Kano that the sus-

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pect was picked up at a hideout at Karkasara Quarters by Malam Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital in Kano metropolis.

The sources said the arrest was a product of “intelligence gathering” and “painstaking effort” by JTF operatives, pointing out that “there was no casualty during the operation that lasted one hour.”

Vanguard learnt that

PEOPLE SPEAK

08102479985

Karkasara and other adjourning quarters had long been identified as dark spots for bombers by security agents in the state, who believe that an attack on a military checkpoint last Friday in which a police corporal was wounded in the leg was carried out from the area.

The security sources were, however, quiet on the identity of the suspect.

By Bartholomew Madukwe (nwamad@yahoo.com)

On Lagos doctors' strike, sack(4)

OVERNMENT should recall the doctors and they will call off the strike. My fear is that the issue is getting out of hand, especially now that it has gone to court. Both parties should put the masses first while they fight.— Mrs. Ngbeme Ogechi, NYSC Member.

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TRIKE is inevitable because it is one of the instruments of unionism. I do not think any government can say a pressure group has no right to go on strike when their demand is not being met. Sacking the doctors just aggravates the issue.—Mr. Usman Izuagie, Lawyer.

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OVERNMENT acted in the inter est of the people.

What percentage of the masses do the doctors represent? The government is not oblivious of the fact that with the sacking of the doctors the masses will be affected. I trust Governor Fashola.—Mr. Jerome Samson, NYSC Member.

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HE strike is mak ing it impossible for me to meet with an appointment at the General Hospital, Surulere. I think the proper thing is for both parties to come to a roundtable and discuss objectively. Delay will only put more lives are at risk.—Mr. Abubakar Ogunbona, MC.

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ACKING 788 doc tors is condemna ble. Funny enough, Lagos State Government officials were alleged to have been sending members of their family abroad for treatment, while the masses are dying in hospitals as a result of the strike.—Mr. Ayodele Akerele, Labour Leader.

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HEY have to resolve their differences on time. Doctors are meant to save lives, which is why I am not in support of them going on strike. The doctors and government should dialogue because many lives are at risk.—Mrs. Clara Onwumere, Fashion Designer.

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C M Y K

— 17 Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012— “Practical Politics consists in ignoring facts.”

Henry Brooks Adams

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Leaders behaving badly

As President Jonathan celebrates

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n any case, the bottom line is that as President Jonathan celebrates his first year as President, he needs to know that the institutional collapse under him is assuming alarming proportions. The public service – including regulatory and investigating

President Goodluck Jonathan

More of the same

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t will all be explained or denied of course, or some token gesture towards investigating will be made.

The National Assembly will make further incursions into President Jonathan’s territory by undertaking another probe and spectacular public relation outing that will show him as a poor manager. This will be the same institution which Obasanjo says is a den of thieves; the same one which offered damning conclusions on his privatisation programme, and the same one which is being queried by the auditor-general for spending billions in un-retired funds. This is same National Assembly which probed the fuel subsidy scam started under Obasanjo’s watch, whose report is being studied by the government and may be forwarded to the E.F.C.C. This will be the same E.F.C.C that was in place when the scam took pace, and which has substantial structural weaknesses that make it susceptible to political influences. This is the same E.F.C.C which is prosecuting legislators who allegedly received illegal funds and demanded for more from a public official they were “oversighting.” This is the same public official who is currently under the close scrutiny of the national assembly for serious breaches in management of her agency and public funds. This is the same agency that was once headed by a chief executive officer who was prosecuted, and is being held responsible for the collapse of the Nigerian Capital Market. This is the same market that still operates substantially on the margins of acceptable standards, and is substantially victim of scheming of very tiny but extremely wealthy and powerful people. These are the same people who are being mentioned in the fuel subsidy scams. These are the

Ex-president Olusegun Obasanjo

Chief Edwin Clark scams which were successful only with the active collaboration of banks. These are the same banks that received and kept billions in embezzled funds from the pension scam. This is the same scam being alleged to be so elaborate that it will rope in some of the most powerful people around President Jonathan today, if they are genuinely investigated.

So the revelation and quarrels around incredible corruption are leaving their imprints all over President Jonathan’s one year old

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ESTERDAY, President Goodluck Jonathan celebrated his first year in office. If the last one year has been eventful, what will the next three be like? Better for Jonathan and the nation? More trying? Can we tell?

These are all legitimate questions to ask in a calm and relaxed environment.

But the last two weeks have been anything but relaxed and calm. A huge uproar followed President Obasanjo’s reported claims that the legislature habours criminals and armed robbers, and so they cannot legislate well for the nation. The legislators demanded that he comes and identifies who among them is a criminal and an armed robber. If he does go, it will be a very long line up indeed. Old man E.K Clark enters the fray, and lambasts Obasanjo for pointing accusing fingers. He said a president who owned nothing in 1999 and is now one of the wealthiest men in the country should not speak about corruption.

The quarrel over who is corrupt and a criminal is being overshadowed by the story of how $1.1billion belonging to Nigerian people from the sale of an oil block was shared out to private companies with very close ties to government. Coming within the context of doubts being cast over the President’s political will and commitment to bring to book those identified as being involved in the mind-boggling fuel subsidy scam, this latest revelation will confound even the most de-sensitised Nigerian.

when it choses to investigate certain aspects of the management of the economy, and then leaves him holding the baby, so to speak. Having aroused public sentiment on issues that should be handled with more rigour and scrutiny, the National Assembly dumps “findings” on him and accuses him of not prosecuting people. The legislature will say it does its job; and may even query how it is possible that it does it better than the executive arm with its army of investigating agencies. People and organisations investigated by the legislature complain that the process is not transparent, in spite of television cameras and live coverage, and much of the investigation is motivated by considerations other than the search for the truth and pursuit of public interest. Trials on television and bullying by legislators are often heard from people who have been summoned, and while the public cheers and swallows everything it sees, there are complaints that these investigations bring up more mud than water.

When Obasanjo lashes at the National Assembly, he is reliving a very old war with a well-known adversary. This adversary will continue to encroach into President Jonathan’s territory in the manner he manages the economy, if he does not improve on his capacity to limit the damage of corruption. Protecting his turf will involve raising the standards by which he and his ministers and other managers of the public service operate

p r e s i d e n c y.

They are also setting an agenda for him, although very few people will expect that all the angles will be covered in the manner t h e s e investigations a n d allegations will be handled. What is certain is that many suspects will hire very expensive lawyers; they will tie up investigations and possible prosecution for as long as they want and there may even be one or two plea bargains involving sloppy deals.

Can this circle be broken? President Jonathan says most of the problems he deals with today have their roots deep in the past, certainly long before his watch began. Perhaps privately, he may even hold Obasanjo responsible for some of them. He could also blame the legislature of playing to the gallery

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agencies – are operating under the most challenging circumstances, the most prominent being strong signals that the political level does not welcome wholesale and genuine investigation into transactions and other government business. This is why the subsidy and pension scams can take place right under all the noses – or in collaboration with some elements – of the public service. The legislature will always exploit the opportunity to “oversight” the executive – and expose its weaknesses and shortcomings – and do this substantially at the expense of its more important responsibility, which is to make laws. When Obasanjo lashes at the National Assembly, he is reliving a very old war with a well-known adversary. This adversary will continue to encroach into President Jonathan’s territory in the manner he manages the economy, if he does not improve on his capacity to limit the damage of corruption. Protecting his turf will involve raising the standards by which he and his ministers and other managers of the public service operate.

He has to personally distance himself from much of the muck presently flying around if he will be able to do this.

18 —

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY , MAY 30, 2012

POLITICIANS patronise tokenism. They have easy solutions for challenges, no matter how deeply rooted they may be. The attitude is to get obstacles out of the way, even if they re-surface.

Suggestions about how to tackle the insurgence in the North have ricocheted through the tendency of the politician to feather his prospects. The loudest voices are asking for a Ministry of Northern Affairs. The request is based on “equity”, they say. If there is a Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, there is need for Ministry of Northern Affairs.

Logic can be distended in situations like this.

The Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs has not proven the success its proponents expected. It is sheer duplication of bureaucracy, which is further slowing down urgent redeeming works that the region requires.

If the short experience of the Niger Delta is the standard, the agitators of the Ministry of Northern Affairs should search further for solutions to the troubles from the area, which have assumed dimensions few expected and confounded everyone.

Chairman of Northern States Governors’ Fo-

Minis tr Ministr tryy Of Nothing Affairs rum and Niger State Governor, Dr. Muazu Babangida Aliyu, made that point more succinctly in Osogbo.

“If the government was to create special ministry each time there was problem in any part of the country, at the long run it would not achieve any desired results. If people are making a point because Ministry of Niger Delta was created because of the militancy in the Niger Delta region, I do not think we need any special ministry for the North. All we need do is to articulate our position so that each government should know how to alleviate poverty of its people.”

Most blame the violence on poverty. What part did the National Poverty Eradication Programme, NAPEP, play in this? In more than 10 years of its existence, billions of Naira expended battling poverty made no scratch. Its adoption of tricycles as national transport icon and pivot of its confrontation with poverty advanced poverty, by drawing youth away from acquiring skills and leaving thousands maimed from accidents.

NAPEP did more. It joined ministries and agencies that drained public funds through their bureaucracy. The 2012 budget shows NAPEP has more than N2.1 billion stated under ambiguous headings like “poverty alleviation scheme in central senatorial district”.

Different senatorial districts in different States got approvals of N222, 266,667 each without details of the programme as if the locations have the same populations and needs.

A new ministry will increase waste. Office accommodation, furniture, staff, Ministers and their retinue of aides will consume scarce resources our people need. Challenges in the North are obvious, but the solutions are not as obvious as they seem.

OPINION

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BY OSAZE STANLEY

N his article entitled ‘Flight of Logic and Decency in Edo state’, the Professor Edwin Sogolo advised the Commissioner of Information, Louis Odion, to go back to school for, perhaps, logic 101. Sadly, Sogolo became guilty of his own accusations by not only ignoring logic largely but also advertising ignorance about his understanding of the Nigerian and indeed, Edo State realities. By his own grave error of omission, Sogolo only succeeded in removing further doubt on the real identity of the “old witch” Odion figuratively referred to.

In the first salvo, he posited that “many of those who pollute the nation’s environment do not have the tools of their trade”.

That is very true as Nigeria has refused to get to its socio-political El Dorado despite all its God-given natural and human resources. However, the only problem with Sogolo’s claim is that he did not point at the right direction by identifying individuals in exalted seats without requisite qualification beyond the need to turn our commonwealth to personal estates.

If Sogolo is not pretending ignorance, he should know that those who ruled Edo State for nearly a decade are among those in that category. He ought to know that Anenih held a supervisory position over the period under review here.

Even though Sogolo admitted that traditional philosophy is logically acceptable, he, however, posited that Odion’s analysis for conclusion that Anenih is chief suspect in the attack on his residence is not supported by the position of contingency and necessity, two basic ingredients, he said, are imperative to both the criminal justice system and practice of medicine.

To that extent therefore, Sogolo can only see the nexus between Anenih and events that the Commissioner narrated succinctly in his article as mere coincidence. Good thinking, except, however, that the Professor failed to understand that like traditional logic, jurisprudence imposes the onus of proof of innocence on a man who threatened to burn down another

Re: Flight of logic and decency in Edo State man’s house and shortly after the house is actually razed down.

Thus, contingently or necessarily, Odion could not have been that wrong in concluding that the man who threatened him earlier in February could have information on the gunmen who began to trail barely 24 hours later and the eventual attack on his residence two months later by four gunmen.

But the ‘professor of Philosophy’ just would not consider the following posers. For instance, given the prevalence of politically motivated killings in the state, will Sogolo, assuming he is in Odion’s position, not recall what transpired earlier in situating who is responsible? Will the idea of necessity and contingency matter at all were he to be the target of the said threat? My guess is that even if the Inspector-General of Police were to transfer his entire retinue of guards to his (Sogolo’s) residence, he would remain paranoid given the nature of the threat involved.

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n the face of these possibilities, I am at a loss as to how Sogolo fails to realise that Odion understands well the distinction between contingency and necessity and that there is indeed a glaring thread of logic in his “Death and the Old Witch’s Cry”. If Sogolo’s hold on facts of history is as sharp as his idea of the manner of logic, it is unlikely that he will write an informed piece rather than propagate his tendentiously peculiar and beggarly liturgy.

According to Sogolo, “Odion is a small fry” because of the disparity between his age, status and accomplishment of the man he fondly addressed as “Chief Anenih” who “has attained some of the greatest heights possible in Nigeria’s socio-economic life”. Therefore, the lowly commissioner is only attempting to ridicule the chief’s many worthy-of-emulation feats in order to

be relevant. The problem here is that the “Professor of Philosophy” conveniently chose to ignore the odious reputation that appears to trail every position his revered idol ever held.

Indeed, given the traditional philosophy that those who live in glass houses ought not to throw stones, the erudite professor, defender of logic, failed to understand that when the mighty Anenih came down, unashamedly, from his Olympian height to meddle with Lilliputian Louis Odion, age, status and accomplishment will become irrelevant. Or has it become proper now for those who throw stones to live in glass houses?

Before sending in his article for publication, Sogolo should have endeavoured to distance his opinion from being overly beggarly as his position looks like one begging for Anenih’s favours.

Lastly, Sogolo made it clear that the killing of Odion, possibly approved by him, would not affect the political equation in Edo State. This position reflects a very low imaginative capacity indeed; very unbefitting a “professor”. Many an observer made the point in the past that the ungodly run of murder, near-murder and what not in the state are orchestrated to possibly derail the governor’s campaign for re-election. Is Sogolo’s logic so outdated that he does not understand that a commissioner can be as close as the word in the circle mentioned above? If Sogolo’s idea of logic holds a contrary view, he must be an apostle of trite philosophy.

Sogolo claims that Edo State is in a moral and intellectual turmoil because people like Odion are acting as commissioners.

How come that even in the current realities in the state, he is speaking of moral turmoil in the present tense while deliberately ignoring the past when his revered “Chief Anenih” held sway?

He must be a variant of the absurd if his allegiance to the chief is so blinding that he cannot see the current speed of development described as a fitting definition of quality performance. *Dr. Stanley wrote from the University of Benin, Edo State.

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012— —19

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OUR Excellency: I have on two occasions applied for a German visa in as many years and both applications have been conference-related. If I have, as a Nigerian academic, come this far without yet visiting Germany, it is nothing short of gratuitous insult for your embassy to imagine that a visit to Germany is de rigueur for my academic career or even worse, that such a visit is for economic migrancy. Otherwise, I must be well-heeled to think of Germany as a tourist destination.

In the event that I do and I’m denied a visa, I could very well turn in less hostile directions. After all, it’s my hard-earned money I would be spending. But as it is, my proposed trip is for purely academic purposes and, as I have mentioned, I have never had cause to apply for a German visa except in the line of my profession.

Germany then couldn’t have been and is certainly not as important to some of us as officials of the German Embassy might have led themselves to believe. The conference I’m billed for, although holding in Germany, would bring together scholars from across

continents, not just Germans. It’s sheer recklessness, borne of vile but arrogant ignorance, on the part of your embassy officials who probably don’t have any education beyond the most basic to stand in judgement over their betters in matters very much beyond their competence. While these embassy officials routinely turn down visa applications or treat genuine applicants with criminal disregard without the slightest scruples, German scholars continue to find their way into Nigeria in line of their own profession. I have as a culture journalist facilitated an important interview with one such German researcher, Markus Coaster, working on Fela/Highlife Music just a few years back. In situations like this, one cannot help but conclude that the attempt is to prevent Africans having a voice in matters central to their identity as Africans and as members of the human race.

Some foreign embassies like the Germans’ seem bent on keeping Africans in a position where they are defined but only by outsiders who propound grand theories that only serve to perpetuate ancient but

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unproven myths about the ‘Third’ or ‘Developing World’ orders. But even as they seek such contrived exclusion or silencing of the African voice, their own scholars with appropriate economic and technological support routinely make their way into different parts of Nigeria and Africa. Many foreign scholars, including Germans, have made lifelong careers from researching Africa.

There are many across the Americas and Europe, so-called Africanist scholars, whose entire academic career is focused on Africa and Africans. An example that easily comes to mind is Professor Ulli Beier, the German scholar who passed on last year in quite advanced years.

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rofessor Beier first came to Nigeria in the 1940s, right from the beginning of the University of Ibadan, and his scholarship went a long way in discovering and promoting the careers of some of Nigeria’s most iconic cultural players and producers, from Duro Ladipo, Kola Ogunmola to artists of the Mbari Club- Wole Soyinka, Christopher Okigbo, J.P Clark-Bekederemo, Demas Nwoko, etc, which he cofounded. His Iwalewa (Yoruba for

Niger Delta Ministry and funds challenge

BY CHRIS OCHAYI

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EFORE the creation of the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs over three years ago by the administration of the late President Umaru Yar’Adua on September 10, 2009, violence bordering on rebellion and militancy enveloped the region. The militancy at that period reached the alarming proportion, which culminated in unprecedented level of insecurity of lives and property.

Not only that, the crisis in the region brought about dwindling economic fortunes in the country as it crippled oil exploration activities in the region, on account of serial premeditated attacks launched on the equipment and installations belonging to major multi-national oil firms operating in the region.

Oil production in the region reduced to an all time low of 700,000 barrels per day, a development that crippled the running of affairs of the government since crude oil exportation is the mainstay of the nation’s economy.

What triggered off the agitation for resource control, which was to later snowball into full aggression by youths in the region, has been traced to several years of neglect of the region by successive administrations in the country. Having come to terms with this disturbing situation, the late President Yar’Adua created the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs to address the prevalent problems in the region.

Another response from the Federal Government that helped to foster relative peace in the region was the proclamation of amnesty for militants willing to lay down

their arms. In the event, over 26, 358 militants left the creeks to surrender their arms and ammunition after accepting the amnesty programme of the government.

The Ministry and the proclamation of the amnesty have in no small measure contributed to the relative peace presently being enjoyed in the region which has led to the increase in oil output from 700,000 bpd at the height of the restiveness in the region to over 2.5 million bpd.

But it will appear that the peace in the region is now being threatened by lack of funds for the Ministry to execute its postamnesty programmes.

The hope and expectations of the people are fast evaporating due to the stagnant status of several development projects in the region.

This was recently brought to public notice by the Minister of Niger Delta Afairs, Chief Godsday Orubebe while addressing members of the House of Representatives Committee on the Ministry.

He noted that the N59.72 billion appropriated to the Ministry in the 2012 fiscal year “was grossly inadequate to cater for ongoing development projects in the region”. He told the Committee members who were on oversight function visit that the amnesty programme initiated by his ministry accounted for the country’s oil output rising to 2.5 billion bdp, following relative peace being experienced in the region.

The Minister, therefore, requested for a legislation to ensure that five per cent of the revenue accruable in production levels is made available to the Ministry to fund the deficit areas of its budget in order to

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Open Letter to the German Ambassador: How Germany underdevelops Nigerian academia (2)

Applicants must be on that queue where a foul-mouthed hireling hurls insults at parents in front of their children like a rabid dog at 7 in the morning

character is beauty) House in Germany today stands as testimony to his lifelong commitment to the study of Yoruba culture and arts. Ibadan, Ede and Osogbo, among other towns, in the Yoruba heartland where Professor Beier became a household name, even with first class royalties; was feted and celebrated- these towns are today the cultural destinations they have become and Yoruba culture is justly and deservedly famous around the world owing to some of the works of such foreign scholars as Beier, Susan Wenger, Georgina Beier and that Amazon of British academy, Professor Karin Barber of Birmingham University.

It is through such crossventilation of ideas and scholarship and exposure to other scholars and cultures that the academic culture is nurtured. This is precisely what foreign embassies, such as the German Embassy and its discourteous staff, that erect roadblocks by way of denial of visas to academics destroy when they behave as they do. It is again déjà vu and we are thrown back to some 130 years when European powers met in the German city of Berlin to carve up Africa without the input of Africans.

This scenario is constantly played out today across conference venues in Europe and other parts of the West where debates and conferences about Africa, its people, culture and future prospects are held with little or no African presence. There are many conferences like that held across the West in which there would be but only marginal or zero African presence.

Well beyond the issue of undermining Nigerian, even, African scholarship (for the same practice obtains across the Continent- a colleague attending the VAD.e Conference in question had to obtain a letter from the Foreign Affairs Minister of his country in addition to his visa

The peace in the region is now being threatened by lack of funds for the ministry to execute its post-amnesty programmes; the expectations of the people are fast evaporating

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encourage growth and development.

Expressing concern that laudable economic empowerment programmes that are highly desirable for the development of the once neglected region are marred by the continuous short falls of the ministry’s appropriation, the Minister added that “not less than 25 on-going community projects designed to hook the region to the national grid, would be discontinued, due to never ending short falls in the money released for the actualisation of the planned development of the region".

H

e said: “Three years after the Nigerian government keyed into the Ministry’s bold initiative to grant amnesty to militants fighting mainly for development and job opportunities in the oil-rich Niger River Delta, violence has diminished, and oil revenues - which dropped at the height of the conflict - have increased,(i-e from 750,000 barrels per day to 2.5million)".

Orubebe, therefore appealed to relevant authorities to as a matter of urgency, provide a corridor for real funding for intervention projects.

Giving a breakdown of his Ministry’s

application!), there are yet other ways by which the German Embassy dehumanises Nigerian visa applicants. First, the German Embassy must be the singular one of the busier embassies that still requires visa applicants to report physically to stand on interminable queues in order to submit visa applications after an appointment. Other embassies have outsourced this aspect of their work to private companies. But the German Embassy, like the proverbial glutton that eats alone and must one day die alone, insists on keeping every miserable kobo made off Nigerians from going elsewhere. So it makes it mandatory for Nigerians to report at the embassy. And at what time?

Applicants must be on that queue where a foul-mouthed hireling hurls insults at parents in front of their children like a rabid dog at 7 in the morning or an appointment obtained after months of trying is cancelled. Now to be able to report at the Embassy at the rush hour of 7 in the morning, you must have been on the road at 4 or thereabout or you can’t make it through the infamous Lagos Island traffic snarl. Yet an applicant making such journey through the dangerous streets/ roads of Lagos in such small hours of the day must do so carrying vital documents (both originals and copies) such as educational, marriage and birth certificates of entire families; certificates of incorporation of companies, without leaving out important bank statements and raw cash. These and more are the types of documents that the German Embassy requires Nigerians to log around in the dark hours between midnight and dawn. A peculiar German treatment indeed! I’m pressed for space Your Excellency, Mr. Ambassador, but I hope this gives you a picture of the rot that goes on at your Lagos Consulate?

Concluded

attainment with regards to their mandate in the nine Niger Delta states, he posited that the East- West road project inherited from the Ministry of Works at less than 10 % completion now stand at 48% completion.

Other achievements, according to him are 32% completion of skill acquisition centres, 55% completion of housing units project, creation of 7000 jobs which has enhanced local content policy of government, 71% completion of land reclamation job, 50% completion of erosion control project, among others.

The pitiful picture painted by Elder Orubebe infuriated the lawmakers who lambasted President Goodluck Jonathan over the allocation it described as a new threat to the much enjoyed relative peace in the region.

The lawmakers maintained that unless the executive takes a second look at the issue of meagre budgetary allocation for critical projects in the area, the quest for lasting peace in the region might be elusive. They warned that if the aim of establishing the ministry, mandated to formulate policies to fast track development in the region, is defeated, then it will be an indictment of both the legislature and the executive.

Recall that at the time the Ministry took over the construction of the East -West road, the contractors were complaining of lack of funds. However, it is gratifying to note that during the first inspection tour of the Minister in 2009, the contractors praised the Ministry because funds were made available to them as at when due and work progressed steadily.

It would appear, however, that the gains of 2009 have slowed in the succeeding years.

Funding to the project has dwindled resulting in stagnation of work on the EastWest road. *Mr. Ochayi, a journalist, wrote from Abuja.

20 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012

Death too many on East West road T

HE inherent hazard faced by travellers plying the troubled East-West road which straddled the oil rich states of the Niger Delta again played out itself last week Monday night when a Mitsubishi Gallant car collided with another vehicle, a Honda car on the bridge and plunged into the Okoso river.

A young man who was later identified as Mr. Steven Kemepadou, a staff of indigenous oil servicing in Port Harcourt, was killed in the tragic accident which occurred on the Okoso Bridge on the Bayelsa stretch of the road in the Kolokuma-Opokuma Local Government Area.

Though the cause of the accident could not be immediately ascertained as it occurred late in the night when the road is usually less busy, but it was gathered the poor state of the road, coupled with fatigue on the part of the drivers as well as poor visibility and lack of road signs to warn drivers of the treacherous state of the bridge, may have contributed to this avoidable loss.

Although the entire stretch of the road is riddled with potholes, making it a harrowing experience for travellers, but the Okoso bridge axis could best be described as a death trap, given the tricky state of the road leading to the bridge head when coming from the Mbiama end.

Several lives have been lost in the past due to the terrible state of the road in the course of motorists trying to avoid running into the craters, some of which are very wide and deep and could easily cause vehicles on high speed to lose control and plunge into the river or valley.

The Monday night accident around the Okoso Bridge caused a serious pandemonium in the area in the early hours of Tuesday when sympathisers and rescue workers thronged the scene in search of the vehicle that plunged into the river.

Anxiety among the army of sympathisers who besieged the scene was further heightened when news went round

that it was a commercial bus coming from Port Harcourt in Rivers State and heading to Warri in Delta State.

For several hours, rescuers from the local community battled to locate the ill-fated vehicle that plunged into the river and possible survivors to no avail.

While the driver of the Honda car with Rivers plate number AG 188 KHE that was involved in a collision sustained serious injuries and was rushed to the hospital the driver of the other vehicle was not that lucky as he was cold dead when he was eventually fished out from the river.

Armed policemen and other security operatives travelling

*One of the cars involved in an accident on the road, last week pened. When we rushed to the scene, we only saw the badly damaged Honda lying

,

BY SAMUEL OYADONGHA, YENAGOA

Several lives have been lost due to the terrible state of the road in the course of motorists trying to avoid running into the craters, some of which are very wide and deep and could easily cause vehicles on high speed to lose control and plunge into the river or valley

through the route were also on hand to render assistance and help direct traffic on the road to prevent gridlock given the near chaotic situation on the route.

B

ut some of the sympa thizers at the scene told Vanguard Metro that some public spirited persons had been diving into the river in search of the vehicle and possible survivors to no avail.

They noted with concern that nobody had been able to identify the make of the vehicle or the number of passengers in it when the accident occurred between Monday midnight and early hours of Tuesday.

According to them, only the driver of the Honda who was unconscious when he was rescued could narrate what actually happened and the fate of the occupants of the other vehicle that plunged into the river.

A resident close to the scene of accident said: “We heard a loud bang but it was difficult to describe what actually hap-

,

off the bridge with no sign of the other vehicle.

“The injured driver was rushed to hospital and we searched to no avail in the darkness for the other vehi-

cle and continued again at daybreak, hoping that we will rescue somebody”.

Also, a one of the local divers searching the river for the other vehicle and its occupants said all they were encountering were concrete slabs that were used to protect the side of the river from erosion.

H

e showed our corre spondent, who visited the scene at about 7am, a long bamboo pole that was used to prod the water in the course of their search stressing: “As at that time, there was no hope of finding any survivors as the victims would have been inside the river for over eight hours”.

But the missing vehicle was later located on the bed of the river and a corpse fished out by rescuers after many had

given hope of recovery of the remains of the likely victims.

The Federal Road Safety Commission, FRSC, identified the victim as Mr. Steven Kemepadou, a staff of an indigenous oil servicing company in Port Harcourt.

The Sagbama Unit Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps, Mr.Samson Eniyemo, confirmed that the Mitsubishi Gallant car plunged into the Okoso river and the corpse of the driver had been recovered by the local divers in the community with the dead body deposited in a morgue in Odi. Mr. Eniyemo urged drivers to avoid night travels, dangerous overtaking and ensure their vehicles are always in good condition.

Lawmaker assures on community development projects

BY BOSE ADELAJA

A

member of the Edo State House of Assembly, Dele Oloruntoba, has assured Ekpedo community in AkokoEdo Constituency in the state of his determination to bring infrastructure development to the agrarian community.

Speaking during a meeting with executive members of Ekpedo Development Association, EDA, Lagos, he said his visit was meant to show gratitude to the people as well as outline areas of need in the days ahead. In his words: “While I am here to appreciate everyone who has

contributed in no small measure in ensuring that the people’s wish was not subverted by enemies of democracy, I want to use my office to serve my people,” he said.

The lawmaker, who lamented that Ekpedo had suffered neglect and years of under-development, stressed that it was time things took a more adventurous shape for the good of the people.

In his response, EDA Secretary General, Lagos branch, Daisi Seriki, thanked the lawmaker for finding time out of his busy schedule to visit the union, which he described as the first home to all Ekpedo natives, both home

and abroad.

Seriki, who prayed God to protect the lawmaker, however, said several abandoned developmental projects in the community, including the solar energy project and community secondary school, were in need of rehabilitation.

“The new solar energy project has been abandoned just as existing ones require urgent attention. There is also the need to galvanize efforts so as to attract cottage industries and generate employment opportunities for the youths, and the increasing lack of sponsorship for the annual Ekpedo Day,” he said.

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012 — 21

Nigeria’s economic growth will be slow— WAIFEM boss

By CHINEDU IBEABUCHI

N

IGERIAN economy will witness no major economic transformation between now and 2015, as major indices have shown that the economy will grow at a much slower pace, according to an economist and Director- General, West African Institute for Financial and Economic Management, WAIFEM, Professor Akpan Ekpo.

Ekpo, who was delivering a keynote lecture at the Wilson Badejo Foundation, WBF, Fifth Annual Lecture, with the theme: ‘Nigeria’s Great Resources and the Paradox of Economic Poverty,’ in Lagos, said, “Despite the various efforts put in place by government to check the rising rate of poverty, the rate of unemployment is growing faster than the growth of the economy, especially as the growth witnessed over the years have not contributed to curbing the unemployment situation.”

Continuing, he stated, “According to government statistics, in the last five years, the economy has experienced an average growth rate of seven per cent.

In the first quarter of 2012, the economy grew by 7.8 per cent. However, the growth is non-employment generating.

It is a jobless growth.

“Furthermore, if the base year for computing GDP is changed as being proposed, then it would be more of a paper growth rate.

“The current annual rate of inflation is 12.5 per cent; it is double digit but on the lower side. High rate of inflation hurts the poor more as the rich can draw

Africa Transforming Africa – The Economic Engagement

P

RESIDENT of Rwanda H.E. Paul Kagame, and Minister of Finance & Co-ordinating Minister of the Economy Nigeria Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, will join a selection of high level speakers that will sit on the panel for the televised AFC Debate “Africa Transforming Africa” organised by the Africa Finance Corporation and the African Development Bank. The debate will form part of the action packed Africa focused agenda in Arusha, Tanzania, at the end of May that includes the Annual Meetings of the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the African Banker Awards 2012.

The debate will be a platform for “African solutions to African problems”. Panellists will analyse the current issue of Africa’s growth, with its reliance on its natural wealth, yet current infrastructure gap – estimated at $93 billion annually, and the prospects this poses for investments in energy, communication, transportation and ICT and for Africa to craft strategies and make policy choices to determine its own economic prosperity.

Areas of discussion will focus on questions such as “How can we mobilise significantly higher funds and capital investments towards infrastructure?” “How can we overcome the politics of infrastructure?”

on savings to purchase needed goods and services.

“The official rate of unemployment is 23.9 per cent as at November, 2011.

This represents an increase when compared to about 21 per cent in 2010.

It is even higher among youths and other vulnerable groups.

“Also, disturbing is that rural unemployment is increasing. The high rates of unemployment increase the number of poor people. It is interesting to note that the rate of unemployment is increasing faster than the growth of the economy – another disturbing trend. The question

to address therefore is: where is the growth coming from?”

Akpan argued that the manufacturing sub-sector contributes about 3.5 per cent to GDP in the last six years, adding that the 2011–2015 Medium–term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) and the Fiscal Strategy Paper (FSP) project that by 2015, the manufacturing sector’s contribution to GDP would remain at four per cent signalling no meaningful change in the structure of the economy.

Stressing further, he said, “Today our economy is dependent on oil with economic growth recording only seven

per cent. And poverty index is about 70 percent. Furthermore, human inequality is high. Several governments in Nigeria have always claimed to fight poverty. Several programmes costing billions of naira have been designed and sometimes implemented partially to tackle poverty.

“At the end, these poverty programmes only make the poor poorer, and the rich have become richer by looting or stealing the money meant to tackle poverty. In addition, there are huge NGOs with interest poverty alleviation. Not withstanding all these, no positive results”

Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, United Bank for Africa, UBA, Plc, Mr. Phillips Oduoza (3rd left); Group Country Manager, Sub-Saharan Africa, VISA Card, Mr. Gerald Hawkins( 2nd right); Yinka Adedeji, Divisional Head, e-Banking, UBA Plc (left); Ade Ashaye, Country Manager, West Africa, VISA Cards (2nd left); and Douglas Henderson, Head, Emerging Products, VISA Cards, during the visit of VISA to UBA, in Lagos.

Private operators should drive activities in downstream — Legislator

C

HAIRMAN of House of Representative Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream) Mr Dakuku Peterside, has advised the Federal Government to allow private operators to drive downstream business.

He told newsmen in Lagos that the committee came to the conclusion after inspecting some government facilities.

Peterside said the committee believed that government could not be a good manager of business.

“We noticed that virtually all government owned downstream facilities have been ran aground, not properly maintained or almost obsolete. And we compared the government facilities with the privately owned ones and discovered that the private ones are well managed, properly maintained, regularly upgraded and world class,’’ he said. Peterside said that virtually all facilities visited by the committees did not have kerosene in stock, while those that had were selling above the approved pump price.

He said that the fact that NNPC was the only importer of made it difficult to be available and within the reach of the common man. According to him, the committees admitted that there was an issue with getting kerosene to the right place at the right price.

He said that the country had good and adequate storage facilities that could position Nigerian as the hub of the downstream sector in West Africa.

“But there facilities are not being adequately managed. Unfortunately these facilities are under utilised and we think that we can do a lot to ensure that these facilities are fully optimised. The ripple effects of creating employment, ensuring availability of the product all year round and other things are not being felt,” the lawmaker said. Peterside said that there were many challenges in the downstream sector that government had neglected. He said that it had become a common trend that virtually every facility in the oil and gas sector was providing power for its self.

167.80

+0.90

2,110.00

+5.00

19.62

+0.04

107.26

+0.43

91.15

+0.29

CURRENCY BUYING CENTRAL SELLING CFA 0.2817 KRONER 26.5721 EURO 197.5055 POUNDS 244.5343 RIYAL 41.2489 SDR 236.1186 FRANC 164.3472 DOLLAR 154.7 WAUA 235.6595 YEN 1.9364 RENMINBI 24.4642

0.2917 26.658 198.1439 245.3247 41.3823 236.8818 164.8784 155.2 236.4212 1.9427 24.5437

0.3017 26.7438 198.7822 246.115 41.5156 237.6449 165.4095 155.7 237.1828 1.9489 24.6232

CBN Exchange rate as at 28/05/2012

22 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012

Capital market: Foreign investors advocate upgrade in ICT facilities

BY MICHAEL EBOH

F

O R E I G N investors have called for an upgrade in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) facilities in the Nigerian capital market, as this will help in attracting the much needed investment and also ensure that it remains relevant in the global investment market.

The investors made the

call at a one-day investors’ conference organised by the Association of Assets Custodians of Nigeria (AACN), in London, United Kingdom, sponsored by Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc, Citi Bank, Standard Chartered Bank Limited and United Bank for Africa Plc. According to the investors, due to the pace of change in global ICT, it is very easy for any market to be left behind

in the race for positive investment attention in the global markets.

They noted that Nigeria’s economy recorded a growth rate of 7.5 per cent in 2011, which was among the highest in the world, but lamenting that attracts only about $10 billion in a global portfolio investment pool of about $120 trillion.

The investment, which is 0.008 per cent of the pool of portfolio investment, they said did not

reflect the country’s true potentials, which they declared could be significantly enhanced by an upgrade of its capital market ICT. They said, “Even a not-so-major technology enhancement would engender an exponential positive impact in market liquidity and growth.

“ICT enhancement efforts should start with the process of custodians being able to communicate with one another and the Central

From left: Dr. Abdu Ho, Senator Hadi Sirika, Emir of Hadejia, Alh. Adamu Abubakar Maje and Joseph Ikpaanyam, Relationship Manager, Access Bank, Kaduna branch at the opening ceremony of Access Bank Unicef Charity Shield Polo Tournament in Kaduna.

Skye Bank assures of sustained returns on investment

BY MICHAEL EBOH

S

KYE Bank Plc has restated its commitment to ensuring sustained returns on investment for its shareholders in the years ahead.

Speaking at the Annual General Meeting of the bank in Lagos, Mr. Kehinde Durosinmi-Etti, Group Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer, Skye Bank, said the bank would continue to do all within its power to enhance shareholders’ value and returns on investment.

According to him, the bank has been positioned for leadership role in the nation’s banking

industry and has been strengthened by capital injection and good corporate governance policy.

Commenting on the bank’s result for the 2011 financial year, Durosinmi-Etti said the bank recorded an impressive growth in its asset base, rising by 31.3 per cent to N927.1 billion, from N705.9 billion recorded in 2010 financial year.

This, according to him, represents an appreciable expansion in its business activities in spite of the challenging operating e n v i r o n m e n t .

The bank’s deposit liabilities rose to N658.1 billion during the year under review from

N507.6 billion in the previous year, reflecting a growth of 29.6 per cent.

Its operating income also grew by 22.5 per cent from N60.8 billion in 2010 to N74.4 billion.

“The liquidity ratio of the bank, at 32 per cent above the regulatory minimum ratio, was a sign-post of the funding position of the bank and its capacity to absorb both foreseen and latent shocks within the operating environment,” Durosinmi-Etti stated.

Shareholders of the bank, at the meeting, endorsed the payment of N3.3 billion as dividend as proposed by the board of directors, translating to 25 kobo dividend per share for the period

ended December 31, 2 0 1 2 .

Commenting on the dividend, Mr. Olatunde Ayeni, Chairman, Skye Bank, said the bank took the decision in furtherance of its commitment to deliver optimal returns to the shareholders.

He explained that in arriving at the dividend sum, the board also took into account the need to have reasonable reserves to maintain the going concern status of the bank.

Shareholders who spoke at the event applauded the bank’s effort in delivering value to shareholders despite the tough operating environment.

Securities Clearing System, CSCS, using a standardised channel that is International Standard Organisation (ISO) standard.

“Broker dealers should then come on board soon after, as it would leapfrog Nigeria into running its capital market like the rest of the world and operating efficiently and securely instead of using paper instructions confirmations and reports which are slow, cumbersome unsafe and expensive.”

The investors called on regulators in the capital market to fast-track the process leading to the full dematerialization of share certificates as a way of attracting more patronage to the market.

They also expressed deep concern over the growing stock of unclaimed dividends in Nigeria, suggesting that a legislation or regulation should be introduced to prohibit company registrars from keeping unclaimed d i v i d e n d s for longer period of tim “As a way out, the process of dematerialisation of share certificates should be fast

tracked so as to digitalise all shares in the country and thereafter facilitate the process of reconciling each registrar to the Central Securities Clearing Systems Limited (CSCS),” they stated.

They called that urgent steps be taken to ensure the success of the dematerialisation exercise and stock reconciliation between CSCS and all registrars.

Also speaking, Mr. Bayo Olugbemi, President, Institute of Capital Market Registrars, ICMR, attributed the problem of unclaimed dividends to situations where shareholders change addresses without notifying the registrars, existence of physical share certificates, reconciliation issues in registrars’ books among other reasons.

President of AACN, Mr. Segun Sanni, said the conference was aimed at building foreign portfolio investors’ confidence in the Nigerian market and provide a platform for foreign investors to network with Nigerian capital market regulators and operators, with a particular focus on custodians, fund managers, broker dealers, regulators.

Removal of CBN autonomy ’ll affect capital market — Unegbu

T

HE former president of Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), Mr. Okechukwu Unegbu said that the proposed removal of CBN autonomy by the National Assembly is not to the best interest of the economy and would affect the Nigerian capital market.

He said the move by the National Assembly could curtail the autonomy of the CBN as guaranteed by the CBN Act 2007.

According to him, “Such a move could jeopardize the effectiveness of monetary policy and management of the macroeconomic framework in Nigeria .The survival of CBN as an institution is at the heart of the survival of the Nigerian economy.

When the economy is affected definitely the capital market would be affected. Capital market is a barometer that mirrors economic activities of the economy.”

Unegbu, who spoke exclusively to Vanguard said the move by the National Assembly to amend some vital sections of the CBN Act 2007 which grant both administrative and instrument autonomy to the apex bank in the management of the economy will affect the economy negatively.

He warned that any attempt to remove the autonomy of the bank will have a multiplier effect that will not augur well for the country.

The former CIBN boss decried a situation in which a disagreement with an individual could lead to the destruction of the entire institution, and therefore, joined in the plea with the National Assembly members to have a change of action.

It will be recalled that both chambers of the National Assembly have set in motion the process of amending the CBN Act 2007, principally aimed at diluting the powers of the board of the apex bank

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VANGUARD, WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012—23

EDITED by Adekunle Adekoya

DIARY Select ICT events z IP 6 World Congress. Holds 12-13 June in Amsterdam, The Netherlands. zGlobal Messaging and VAS 2012. Holds 12 - 13 June in London, UK. zWest & Central Africa Com. Holds 19 - 20 June at Le Meridien President, Senegal. z Next Generation Core Networks Summit. Holds 19 - 20 June in Berlin, Germany. z Telecom World Congress 2012 Conference. Holds 19 – 21 June at Amsterdam Marriott Hotel,The Netherlands

Preview

New inventions shaping life and living

zSir Demola Aladekomo, President, NCS

Let NITDA remain as IT development agency — NCS

BY EMEKA AGINAM

Needle-free drug delivery DOCTOR visits may soon get a bit less scary with a new needle-free injector able to deliver precise doses of medicine with different levels of force.

Developed by a team at MIT, the injector uses a Lorentz-force actuator to deliver a high-pressure jet of medicine through the skin without the need for a needle. The actuator works through a powerful magnet surrounded by a coil of wire attached to a piston inside the drug ampoule. An applied current interacts with the magnetic field to push the piston forward, which ejects the drug at an extremely high pressure and velocity.

I N S I D E

zMr Steve Oronsaye

T

HE dust is yet to settle on the rec ommendations of the Steve Oronsaye-led committee set up by the Federal Government on the rationalization of federal Ministries, Departments and Agencies with a view to cutting costs of governance, as leaders of the Nigerian IT industry under the umbrella of Nigerian Computer Society, (NCS) rose in stout defence of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), urging government to retain it as a development agency for Information Technology. This was the initial mandate in 2001 when it was set up pending when it would be self-financing in line with its enabling law.

Oronsaye's committee had recommended that it be reduced to a department in the Ministry of

The fresh controversy on SIM card registration

Communications Technology.

Report'll kill IT development

By making NITDA a mere department in the Ministry of Communication Technology, according to a communique signed by the President of the NCS, Sir Demola Aladekomo at the end of emergency meeting of elders and leaders of IT profession in Nigeria held recently will make the agency ineffective and castrated, thereby killing

Information Technology development in the country.

In the 21st century knowledge economy where the wealth of nations is directly proportional to the level of development of IT in that country, Nigeria , according to the professionals cannot afford to scrap an information technology development agency and replace it with a company limited by shares or domicile its development activities in a department of a Ministry.

The federal government

needs to retain NITDA as a veritable tool for driving the transformation initiatives of the federal government e-transformation, the professionals noted.

Accordingly, the professionals, in the communique also strongly believe that as a developing nation striving to achieve the millennium development goals, Nigeria needs to effectively apply IT as a tool for achieving these goals as obtained in other developing economies like India, Singapore, South

Indeed, it will be an offence punishable by a prison term and fine under the NITDA Act....The transformation of Nigeria into a developed economy cannot be achieved by being a consumer nation

How to use infra-red phones as TV remote

Satellite communication and Nigeria's survivability: A case for NigComSat (1)

Africa, etc.

Oronsaye's report

Meanwhile, Oronsaye committee had made the following recommendations as regards the Information Technology (IT) profession: zThat the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) should become a department in the Federal Ministry of Communication Technology (FMCT). zThat it function as the clearing house for Information Technology in the public sector should be taken over by Galaxy Backbone Plc zThat the proposed enabling law for Nigeria Communication Satellite (NigComSat) should not be passed; rather, it should now be fully privatized because if its en-

Continues on Page 28

Democracy Day: Nigerians pray for, task Jonathan on Facebook

24 —VANGUARD, WEDNESDAY, MAY 30,

2012

How to use infra-red phones as TV remote The fresh controversy on SIM card registration

A

little over a week ago, fresh contro versy erupted in the public domain about an exercise whose outcome the nation is awaiting — SIM card registration. The controversy centred around delays in the outcome of the exercise, especially as some networks keep sending messages to their subscribers (who had registered) that their SIM cards had not been registered.

Actually recipients of such messages who had registered their lines would be astounded, leading them to wonder what had happened to the information given while the exercise was on.

H o w e v e r, the interesting aspect of the controversy is the announcement by the House of Representatives Communications Committee chairman, Hon. Oyetunde Ojo that his committee will probe the SIM Card Registration Exercise, for which a princely N6.2 billion was appropriated last year. Of course, the lawmakers have every right to do what they wish to do in exercise of their oversight mandate, but it would be better if the regulator is allowed to announce completion of the exercise, and then, we take things up.

It will be recalled that the need for the exercise was driven principally by security issues and the desire of the nation to bring the national economy into the 21st century.

Secure identity management is a sine qua non for these.

However, let it be borne in mind that things which are taken for granted in other climes, such as census, voters’ registration and others become big, controversial issues here chiefly because of our nature as a group of peoples with interests that serially conflict with the overriding national purpose.

For instance, the National Population Commission conducted a head count in 2006; provisional re-

sults were released in Jan 2007, while final results were released later. In all, it took about 18 months to get the results of the census, and the figures are still in dispute; some states, like Lagos, have petitions at the census tribunal. As far as censuses go, controversy might remain the name of the exercise, again, because of our diversity and the interests spawned by such diversity.

No less different is the voters’ registration exercise, another kind of head count which has always had its own controversies as well. As far as that goes, what the whole of Nigeria slept on between 2010 and 2011 in the run-up to the general elections was the fact that nearly N70 billion was appropriated for INEC to register voters, at the end of w h i c h some 66 million voters were captured.

There was no call ( at least none loud enough) to probe voters’ registration, perhaps because that exercise was firmly domiciled in the political arena.

It should be noted that the SIM card and voters registration are nearly the same thing; the difference is that INEC printed out a voters’ card. In both cases both bodies procured DDC machines and captured biometrics. While INEC used ad-hoc staff to do its own, NCC outsourced the exercise to consultants in the six geopolitical zones.

The issue here is that as yet, the SIM card registration exercise has not been completed, as outcome of harmonisation of captured data is still being awaited. All that talk about incompatible format and the rest are technical details being used to gull people into believing what those with the motive want them to believe.

Until the exercise is completed, the grounds for a probe would be as firm as quicksand.

All that talk about incompatible format are technical details being used to gull people into believing what those with the motive want them to believe

S

MART phones are cell phones will multiple uses and capabilities. Cell phones do so much more than make calls these days. If you own a Smartphone, you have the availability to download many applications that give a variety of uses to your cell. One such application will let you turn your phone into an infrared (IR) remote control for your television. With the right hardware and software, you can create a backup for your regular TV remote.

Things you'll need

— IR hardware module — IR hardware module application

Procedure

1. Insert the plug of the IR hardware module into the headphone jack of your phone.

2. Download the application that corresponds to your IR hardware module. Go to the screen on your Smartphone that al-

lows you to search for applications. Enter the name of the IR hardware module manufacturer into the search window on this screen. Press or tap the search button on the screen.

3. Select the application that corresponds to your IR hardware module by tapping the name of the application on the phone's

screen.

4. Download the application by tapping the button that says "Download" or "Install". The application will then download and automatically install into your phone.

5. Access the application on your phone. Tap the applications menu icon and then the icon of the IR hardware module ap-

plication. This will launch the application.

6. Aim your IR hardware module at the television set. The TV should be off.

Press the "Test" button on the application screen that is open on your phone. The TV will turn on.

7. Press the "Done" or "Save" button on the current application screen.

L4L, Flour Mills donate 50 laptops to Kuramo Pry Sch'l

BY EMEKA AGINAM

A

Lagos-based or ganization, Laptops4Learning in partnership with Flour Mills of Nigeria has empowered Kuramo Primary School with 50 Laptops for technology based learning.

L4L is a Non-For-Profit organisation with the aim of providing laptops to Nigeria teachers and children as a learning tool.

L4L’s goal is to provide primary school teachers and children in Nigeria with laptop computers, software, training and a conducive environment that will empower them to learn, explore, experiment and express themselves in creative and productive ways that will ultimately bring about transformative change in Nigeria.

Already, with permission of the local government area education authority, Kuramo Primary School has made available a dedicated classroom for exclusive use of L4L for initial period of three years.

The project, it was learnt was targeted at children between primary 5 and 6 only as these are the preparatory years ahead of secondary school as they prepare to become responsible, independent and cognizant of the big-

ger world around them.

Like the one Laptop per child, the program, it was gathered, was targeted at the underprivileged children in the society especially those from poor parents who may not normally have access to screenbased technologies such as laptops.

The programme, the initiators said has been designed using that experience to accommodate the specific challenges we face in Nigeria which include funding, power, teacher literacy, school infrastructure and paren-

tal poverty. The objective of the pilot project is to develop a replicable programme for primary schools across Nigeria.

Individuals behind the L4L initaitive include Mr.Tunde Arogunmati, Carolyn Hall, Phil Hall, Mr. Tomi Davies, Abimbola Okoya-Urey, Funmi Onabolu, Diana Johnson, Ayo Kusamotu and Ria Mastoroudes came together to form Laptops4Learning (L4L).

While lauding the capacity building program, the Chief Executive Officer of TechnoVision Com-

munications, Mr. Tomi Davies with optimism said that by the time any child leaves primary school, they would have been exposed to using a laptop and the internet so that they are not left behind in this new age of information and communications technologies.

He said that the program is not about teaching IT. "It is about exposing the children to screen based technologies in a journey of safe self help discovery , supported by the teachers who act as club leaders."

BOOK LAUNCH: Head of Glo1Business Solutions, Folu Aderibigbe; Publisher of Interiors Magazine, Titi Ogufere and ex-governor of Cross River State, Donald Duke at the launch of the book — Luxury Hotels and Hotels in Nigeria, written by Ogufere and sponsored by Globacom, at Radisson Blu Anchorage Hotel, Lagos.

VANGUARD, WEDNESDAY,MAY 30, 2012—25

Akwule to chair Nigeria Ipv6 roundtable

BY EMMA ELEBEKE

A

WASACE coming with another undersea cable

multinational tele coms operator, WASACE Cable Company has announced that it has begun the procurement process to select a cable system supplier for the construction of its undersea fiber optic cable system, which will create new communication routes to support the communities around the Atlantic basin.

In a statement made available in Lagos, WASACE will develop, operate and build a new network connecting Africa to the U.S., and connecting the 2 BRICS economies in the South-

ern Hemisphere, Brazil and South Africa, for the first time. WASACE’s new- submarine cable network will also connect the two largest economies in America, USA and Brazil, and will provide a full diverse route to the aging transatlantic cable systems between USA and Europe.

Also, WASACE will deploy the latest “100G” technology to connect four (4) continents comprisin WASACE Americas connecting Brazil to the U.S., and WASACE Africa, connecting Nigeria and South Africa to the USA;

and WASACE Europe.

To achieve its objectives, WASACE has engaged the services of telecommunications consultants, the David Ross Group to administer the procurement process and lead the development of the project.

WASACE’s plan is to develop the network in phases, beginning with the WASACE Americas and WASACE Africa, scheduled to be in service by the first quarter of 2014.

“The commencement of the selection process for the cable system

supplier(s) for our network is a critical milestone in our plan to enable new, critical routes focused on enhancing connectivity for the populations in the Atlantic Basin,” said Ramón Gil-Roldán y Sansón, Chairman and CEO of WASACE Cable Company.

“The David Ross Group is pleased to take part in the development of this unique undersea cable system which will add critical new routes to the global telecommunications network” said David Ross, President of the David Ross Group.

of the P RESIDENT Digital Bridge Insti-

tute (DBI), Prof. Raymond Akwule is to chair the 2012 Nigeria IPv6 Roundtable due to hold on June 6 in Lagos.

Executive Director, Operations at DigitalSENSE Africa Media, Mrs. Nkemdilim Nweke, organizers of Nigeria IPv6 Roundtable, disclosed this in Lagos, saying that Prof. Akwule would be supported by industry operators during the commemoration of World Internet Protocol version 6 day.

According to her, the IPv6 Roundtable slated to hold at the Welcome Centre and Hotels, Lagos, would be presided over by renowned ex-

perts in the telecommunications industry While urging industry players to take advantage of the event to address and share preparations at their ends on migration to IPv6 in the country.

She assured that participants are bound to benefit from the wealth of experience of Prof. Akwule, who currently is the President of DBI, an international centre for advanced communications studies.

CASH-LITE NIGERIA:

SafeNet, WiniGroup tackle IT risks

BY PRINCE OSUAGWU

N

IGERIA’s introduc tion of cashless economy is attracting many stakeholders, including a US based data protection, authentication and encryption company, SafeNet Inc. Hi-Tech gathered that the company has vowed to take advantage of the development to penetrate the Nigerian ICT market and thereby increase its presence in Nigeria.

The company said that with the introduction of cashless economy policy in Nigeria, it was imperative to x-ray such hot and relevant topics around the system like: data, risk, file, network and WAN encryption and control; multi-factor authentication.

To get the business done, the company in collaboration with its Nigeria partners, Witty International New Inventions, WINI Group has slated a one day IT workshop in Lagos Nigeria, where the company’s International directors will give a clear roadmap to the security issues surrounding cashless society implementation.

They will also trash out issues of licensing and monetization solution for hybrids on-premise and cloud-based software portfolios, financial data security, government security solutions for protecting communications, sensitive and classified data, cloud security, intellectual properties and digital identities, among others.

The IT security seminar, is billed to hold first week of May at the Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island.

The workshop is expected to attract top IT, EBusiness and Risk Management Professionals from Financial Institutions, Telecommunications, Oil and Gas, Manufacturing, Services, Education, and Government sectors.

26—VANGUARD, WEDNESDAY,MAY 30, 2012

Nokia in drive to empower local software developers Visa counts 5m card holders in Nigeria

BY PRINCE OSUAGWU & EMMA ELEBEKE

BY EMMA ELEBEKE

N

OKIA woke up last week to take the African mobile space by storm. First it prepared the stage for more than 200 of Africa’s top policy makers, developers, entrepreneurs and private enterprises to engage in three days of intense debate at the Open Innovation Africa Summit (OIAS) in Nairobi, Kenya. The OIAS is put together to stimulate discussion about the role of entrepreneurship, innovation and ICTs in Africa, not just among participants, but also to explore the transformative innovations necessary to successfully address many of the challenges facing Africa today.

The summit is also meant to empower African thought leaders to find ways to spur technological innovation within their own local context.

Here at home, Nokia partnered a Lagos-based firm, the Co-Creation Hub, CCHub to discover and empower young local software developers. That effort gave birth to no fewer than ten Nigerian youth developers who stand to have their own businesses grown by Nokia’s local and international expertise.

Meanwhile, the company’s partnership with Nigeria’s Co-Creation Hub, a social innovation centre in the heart of Lagos, saw about 10 local Nigerian software developers emerge, last week. The project, tagged Nokia and

T

LAUNCH: From left, Mr Teemu Kiijarvi, Head, Ecosystem and Developer Experience, Nokia-West Africa; Mr Adetunji Eleso, Director, Pre-Incubation and Research, Co-Creation Hub; and Paul Houghton, Director,Wizardry and Development at Futurice, Finland at the launch of Nokia/CCHUB Growth Academy, in Lagos.

Co-Creation Growth Academy is a talent hunt oriented initiative aimed at accelerating top Nigerian mobile software companies in growing their companies on regional and international levels.

The beneficiaries of the academy programme in return, are expected to use their grown businesses to boost and bring value to the Nigeria software market and by extension the ICT industry in general.

The program comes in three parts; Training, Development and Launch of world class mobile apps for Nokia platform. Selected participants will undergo hands-on, structured and technical train-

ing to actualize your ideas.

A global mobile software house from Finland, Futurice, with expertise in mobile application development and user driven design will have face to face sessions with the participants in Nigeria and also provide constant online support and mentoring to the participants during the Growth Academy.

Unveiling beneficiaries in Lagos, Head of Ecosystem and Developer Experience, Nokia West Africa, Teemu Kiijarvi said '' Nigeria has a thriving and growing mobile software start-up scene with a lot of potential for growth.

For Nokia, the project is a way of boosting Nigeria

software market and growing the mobile industry. It is our flagship project and we are determined to train young and budding developers, not only in Nigeria but also in Africa in general.

He said that the project is a continuous one that will be recruiting companies that will in return hiring developers in Nigeria, saying that Nigerian market is growing so fast that it is easy for any aspiring enterpreanuer to succeed if given the right support. ''it is about creativity and social innovation. The beneficiaries will learn how to do both local and global business,” he added.

Y

ESTERDAY was May 29, the anniversary of the nation’s return to civil rule in 1999. many Nigerians connected with President Goodluck Jonathan through Facebook. Here are some excerpts of posts on the President’s page, which reflect yearnings of the average Nigerian. Yes, we had to edit for your reading pleasure as you know that online diction, especially in the social media, is something else.

Temitope Ogunjobi Adetomiwa Mr President, Sir pls do something about PHCN; they are killing businesses. Pls do something very fast.

Akpovi Ekporhi Sir, be focused and not be intimidated. Try and make members of your cabinet get into action and forget the civil servants that led previous administrations to failure. The last one year hasn’t been terrible but it wasn’t good either. So, improve in your second year.

Adeyeni Oluwasegun Mr President, John VoltC M Y K

HE drive for card ac ceptance and issuance in Nigeria through banks seems to have started paying off, as Visa announced that its client financial institutions in Nigeria have surpassed 5 million cards in the market.

Visa said the achievement was in line with vision of revolutionizing the way financial services reach unbanked people and accommodating the growing payments infrastructure in Nigeria.

Country Manager for Visa West Africa, Ade Ashaye, said "Visa is ramping up presence local in-market to support growth in Nigeria and the push towards electronic payments. We are committed to providing the right in-market support to

ensure we are fully catering to the needs of our local partners."

According to him, the drive to make Lagos a cashless economy is an indication that the adoption of card technology in Nigeria is growing at a rapid pace, and affirmation of the 70% volume growth of transactions on Visa cards. This is said was also responsible for 75% increase in usage of Visa cards recorded last year at the point-of-sale in Nigeria.

"By employing more people on the ground and investing in local talent, we are playing our part in building capacity within Nigeria. We are also positioned to help merchants understand the value of card acceptance and keep up with this increase in point-of-sale usage," added Ashaye.

Airtel unveils easy data recharge options

BY PRINCE OSUAGWU

A

IRTEL Nigeria, last Monday unveiled easy recharge systems on its data platform. The new systems include physical and electronic data recharge cards aimed at expanding subscription options for data subscribers on the network. With the options, customers no longer will have to use ussd or sms codes to activate their data bundles.

This is also as the company announced a major price reduction on its internet dongle from N6, 500 to N3, 990, to enable more Nigerians experience and enjoy its internet services.

It said that new and existing Airtel data subscribers on the prepaid platform can activate their desired data bundle using the physical recharge cards available from

N99.00 to N7, 999 denominations, for a corresponding data allowance of 10MB to 5GB. Customers will also get up to 50% bonus on selected data plans on both the physical and electronic data recharge options.

Also, the data recharge can be purchased electronically through resellers, ATMs and online platforms.

Speaking on the developments, the Chief Operating Officer and Executive Director, Airtel Nigeria, Mr Deepak Srivastava, described the accomplishment as a double victory for the customers adding that this has taken the company closer to its desired goal of being the most loved brand in the daily lives of Nigerians, especially coming on the heel of the recent launch of its 3.75G broadband service.

Democracy Day: Nigerians pray for, DSTv to reward subscribers

BY EMMA ELEBEKE General Manager, DStv task Jonathan on Facebook Mobile, Nigeria and Gha-

ermor said that when a state cannot guarantee the security of her citizens, the state is epileptic. So, Mr President, let’s see 2015. Good day.

Adebola Fatimehin Your Excellency, congratulations on your first 365 days in office. May the Good Lord support you in your giant strides to make Nigeria better than you met it. Congratulations, Your Excellency.

Samuel Rufus PamieGeorge President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan is covered by the Special Forces of the Most High God. Bless you, My President.

Okay Ekwueme Empower the youth, give them quality Education. We are the leaders of tomorrow. Mr. President Sir, please whatever good you are going to do tomorrow, begin now to do it, begin now to be what you will be thereafter. Please don’t forget those who voted for you.

Mr. President, please help the youths, university post utme and admissions has eaten us up.

Please do something about it Sir. Oladeji Sunday Mr. President Sir, I just watched d special Christian programme on the anniversary aired on

NTA. Pls make use of the advice given by the man of God, Most Rev. Peter Akinola. I like your speech too. I’m praying for you, God will guide & protect you. You will succeed IJN. Adams Anas Danlami Happy anniversary and let’s hope for a better Nigeria.

Daniel Chenedu All we need is electricity and good security to make 9ja fine!!!

Chris Cassidy This is the fresh air you promised — increased fuel price in the name of removal of subsidy and proposed increase in electricity bills.

P

REMIUM subscrib ers of DSTV can now enjoy discounts on the purchase of the DStv Mobile Walka and Drifta devices. This comes as part of an initiative of the company to reward its loyal DStv Premium subscribers in the country.

According to the company, the Walka, a 3.5” portable TV, can now be purchased for N16,500; while the Wi-fi Drifta which connects to iPads, iphones, Mac books, Laptops, PCs, select windows OS and android smart phones will be available for N15,000.

Also, users who prefer the USB Drifta can also purchase them at the discounted rate of N9, 500.

na, Mayo Okunola, said, “This initiative reaffirms our commitment to ensure that DStv subscribers continue to enjoy the best of pay entertainment on the go. With the launch of Big Brother Stargames, DStv subscribers are in a position to enjoy the most viewed reality TV show on the continent anywhere and anytime by taking advantage of this unique offer.”

Managing Director of MultiChoice Nigeria, John Ugbe, also said, “Our subscribers remain our priority and we will continue to come up with initiatives to reward them for staying loyal to the DStv brand”.

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012 — 27

28 —VANGUARD, WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012

Mobile money: Intermarc to hold card, ATM, mobile expo

BY JIM LAWSON

Let NITDA remain IT development agency — NCS Continues from 23 abling law were to be passed, it would conflict with the Act setting up the parent body, National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) and the withdrawal of funding for Computer Professionals (Registration Council of Nigeria) (CPN) by 2013.

IT gains'll be wiped out

While commending the good intention behind the Orosanye committee and its mandate, the IT professionals observed that because of the importance of IT in the growth and development of any nation, the recommendations of the committee were capable of setting the IT sector back by decades in addition to wiping out gains already made.

NITDA on track

Accordingly, the IT professionals in the communique noted that a close look at the performance of NITDA since inception would confirm that the agency has been working hard on its mandate and its impact is being felt in Information Technology, e-Transformation and the overall economic development of the country.

“The Agency has achieved landmark accomplishments particularly in the areas of Human Capital, Infrastructural Development as well as Institutional capacity building.

“Additionally, the Act that established NITDA also created the National Information Technology Development Fund (NITDEV) for its developmental initiatives. Therefore, NITDA will not be a financial liability to the Federal Government.

“The establishment of Information Technology development agency is in consonance with UNESCO recommendations. Therefore, development agencies that are similar to NITDA were established in many other countries such as Singapore, Malaysia, Brazil, Phillipines, India etc and they have played significant roles in the penetration of IT and overall economic growth of those countries. Indeed, the expected economic growth, the actualization of Vision 20- 2020 and e-transformation will be a mirage without an appreciable depth of IT development” the report stated.

After deliberations, the elders and leaders in the Nigerian IT sector resolved as follows:

Resolutions

zNITDA should remain a development agency of Government for Information Technology as requested in 2001 when NITDA was set up and not be made a mere department in Ministry of Communication Technology where it will be rendered ineffective and castrated and thereby killing Information Technology development in the country.

zNITDA should retain its function as a clearing house for Information Technology in Nigeria, among other functions as empowered in the NITDA Act 2007. zOn the recommendation that Professional Regulatory Agencies become self funding, we suggest: z That government works with those Agencies in strengthening their enforcement apparatus. z That government gives them a grace period of funding till year 2015 as a sudden and un-

planned cutoff of funding to them will be disruptive to their statutory regulatory functions. zThe recommendation that Galaxy Backbone, a Public Liability Company be charged with the responsibility of serving as the clearing house for Information Technology in the public sector is ill advised, absurd and retrogressive. Galaxy Backbone that has been involved in procurement contracts cannot serve as a clearing house because there will be a conflict of interest.

A

LL is now set for the hosting of the twelfth edition of Card, ATM and Mobile Expo by a Lagos firm, Intermac Consulting Limited. The theme of the event which is "Acceptance and Usage: Winning Payment Ecosystems Dynamics," is in response government's desire to regulate the payment systems space by limiting cash withdrawal of over N500, 000 effective next month Speaking at the event, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Intermac Consulting Limited, Mr. Adeyinka Adeyemi, stated that ‘’this year, we are turning the spotlight on the issues

C

AN Nigeria survive future challenges of nation building, wealth creation, national security and global competitiveness without strategically applying Information Technology and Communication Satellites in particular? The answer is very clear! As our population index grows, the geo-physical carrying capacity of the population of Nigeria will sporadically outgrow the intellectual capacity and ability to manage it with our current traditional model of governance. World satellite industry revenues had average annual growth of 14.2% for the period from 2003 to 2008, with a gross revenue of USD$144.4 billion.

The growth in satellite carriage of High Definition Television (HDTV) continues to drive both transponder and DTH service revenues worldwide. The number of HDTV channels worldwide grew by almost 170% between the end of 2006 and May 2009. More than 60% of HDTV channels currently serve North American market. The remaining HDTV channels primarily serve European and Asia-Pacific markets (Satellite Industry Association). Consequently, the African Continent is left out to decide her own fate.

Meanwhile, the Africa Digital Divide & Disaster continues to build up by the nanosecond, while her population continues to balloon!

Today we are still grappling with the real and correct figure of our national population currently computed at about 153 million people. The fact and concern is that future challenges of nation building and the survivability of Nigeria are colossal and may not be surmountable without the strategic deployment and effective implementation

Satellite communication and Nigeria's survivability: A case for NigComSat (1) of robust satellite communication infrastructure (SCI) and related expert knowledge institutions.

For the above and other constructive reasons, it has become imperative to re-examine the recent proposal of the Steve Oronsaye’s Committee on down-sizing the capacities of Federal Government Administrative machinery. First, it is instructive to emphasize that Nigeria is the single largest entity and cluster of people of African extraction under the universe – and by extension, indirectly responsible for the protection of life, property

ness in the emerging information society – a task Nigeria may not achieve without strategically deploying communication satellites and building commensurate skills to support it.

Secondly, the economics of the digital age has made the Information Technology Domain (ITD) the battle field of all human activities (current and future) – configured and connected to the internet. This paradigm shift and change management scenario dictates that we must first of all undertake, understand and master the ecosystem

The role of NigComSat as a satellite service provider is fundamental for national survivability and therefore an absolute necessity and survivability of the African continent and her people.

It is within this context that the analysis on the relevance, needs and requirement of satellite communication infrastructure and programme – and in particular, the fundamental necessity, critical function and the role of the Nigeria Communications Satellite Ltd. (NigComSat) is examined. Also critical, is the factor of meeting the targets of Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and global competitive-

of small structures as imperatives for a spin-off to medium scale and large institutions. In other words, it is not the small disconnected structures of government (agencies and parastatals) that are at the centre of the core challenge of the inefficiency in government.

Rather, it is the abysmal missing-link (constructive data and information) between existing small entities of government structures and robust technology, mechanisms and skill-sets required to interface, integrate, meas-

ure and control their mandate, functions and operations to efficiently achieve set goals. This, amongst other strategic reasons is why the role of NigComSat as a satellite service provider is fundamental for national survivability and therefore an absolute necessity. For the records, before the White papers Committee and indeed the President adopts their final position on NigComSat, let it be stated that the subject matter is beyond Nigeria and political personalities – it is about humanity and the survival of the African continent and her people.

The World is going to Pluto! New Horizon flies faster than a speeding bullet. Indeed it is much faster. In 2006, NASA launched the New Horizon, a Plutonium-powered probe speeding up to 47,000 miles per hour on its 10-year journey to capture the first close-up images of Pluto and a region of the outer solar system called the Kuiper Belt. The probe will go so fast, it will reach the moon in just nine hours, a journey that took Apollo 11 three days to make in 1969! Lesson learned is that speed has become the common currency and centre of gravity for the survivability of 21st century nations. And, this centre of gravity is dictated and measured by the capacity and capability of Information and Communication Technologies

concerning the consumers and users of e-payment products and services across Africa. We are also advocating policy intervention by government of other African countries to follow the Nigerian example by providing the right regulatory frame work for epayment to thrive and grow as this trend will have positive impact on the economy at various levels”.

Adeyinka also disclosed that Intermac, through the support of sponsors, will mobilize visitors at 10 different strategic bus stops to the exhibition ground, free of charge.

The event is expected to parade international speakers and exhibitors.

(ICTs) domiciled and applied to nation building.

To many professionals and concerned citizens, the problem and critical conflicting issues of the moment that may have informed the recommendation of the Oronsaye Committee on the role and place of information technology and NigComSat role in national development revolves around technophobia – the ignorance, fear and contradiction of what technology is, and what it is not. It is indeed a fallacy therefore to assume that the spaceship, turbines for generating electricity, airplanes, and indeed satellites are technologies. No, they are not! Rather it is the knowledge resources: concept, principle and process which produce those products (we physically see and use in every-day life) that are the real technology. This knowledge resources and process is essential for the survivability of the future of Nigeria. Now, when we are assigned a significant national assignment such as that domiciled at the door steps of Steve Oronsaye’s Committee, adopting an all-inclusive stakeholders strategic input becomes an absolute necessity.

Communication Satellites acquisition and ownership are fundamental prerequisites for sustainable nation-building and national survivability. Africa/Nigeria can therefore, not be left out of this current and knowledge adventure. Furthermore, the task before the nation with respect to satellite acquisition, ownership, future manufacture and launching knowhow cannot be left only to NASDRA and NIGCOMSAT. z TO BE CONTINUED. Chris Uwaje is CEO of Connect Technologies and President of the Institute of Software Practitioners of Nigeria (ISPON).

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012 — 29

30 —Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012

Balotelli: I’m a genius M

ANCHESTER CITY striker Mario Balotelli reckons he is a genius.

The cocky Italian claims he possesses a “beautiful and wonderful” talent and says he is smarter than most people.

But the 21-year-old does admit there are parts of his game which need improving if he is to realise his dream of one day becoming the best player in the world.

Speaking to France Football, Balotelli said: “I think I am a genius, but not a rebel.

“I have my life, my world, I do what I want, without annoying anyone. I believe I am more intelligent than the average person.

“The talent God gave me is beautiful and wonderful, but it is difficult because you are always facing other people keen to judge you.

“There are few people with such talent, so there are few able to judge what I am doing.”

The former Inter Milan hitman, who moved to City in 2010 for £20million, has his sights firmly fixed on winning the coveted Ballon d’Or – the top individual prize in football.

Balotelli, who is currently with the Italy

squad ahead of Euro 2012, explained: “My dream is to become in time the strongest footballer.

I know I am strong, but if I go on working I know I can become much stronger.

“The Ballon d’Or is the most important title after

the World Cup and European Championship. It is an objective. I think I could be able to win it one day but I still have to work a lot.

“When I decide to score, I score. I know I am strong, but I believe it is not enough yet. I can kick fine, dribble very well, but I still have to improve.”

•Mario Balotelli

Drogba holds talks with Real Madrid

D

idier Drogba could reportedly be reunited with former Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho at the Santiago Bernabeu this summer after leaving Stamford Bridge on a free transfer.

The 34-year-old confirmed last week that he will depart west London after his contract expires next month, following eight years as a Chelsea player.

Drogba was expected to leave Chelsea for China, and join ex-teammate However, according to the Daily Mail , the Ivorian has held talks with Real Madrid over a proposed two-year deal, which would see Drogba link-up with Mourinho once more.

The Real Madrid manager brought Drogba to Chelsea from Marseille in the summer of 2004, and the latter went on to score 157 goals in 341 games for the Blues.

Chelsea grab Hazard for £32million C

•Petr Cech

Cech extends Chelsea stay

C

helsea’s Champions League hero Petr Cech has signed a new four-year contract.

The Czech keeper, who joined the club in 2004, has already played more games for Chelsea than any overseas player - 369 appearances which has seen him win three Premier League titles, four FA Cups and two Carling Cups plus the Champions League after a penalty shoot-out.

Cech said: “I am really happy to be part of this great club for another four years.

“I hope the next four years will be as successful as the last eight years I have been at the club.”

Cech, 30, made a series of crucial saves in Chelsea’s victorious FA Cup and Champions League campaigns last season.

He saved Arjen Robben’s penalty in extra time in the European competition final against Bayern Munich and two more in the shoot-out.

Chelsea chief executive Ron Gourlay said: “Chelsea fully appreciates the highly significant contribution Petr has made to the most successful C M Y K

period in the club’s history, and it is very important to our aim of continuing this level of achievement that he has committed himself to the club until 2016.

helsea have won the race to sign Belgian star Eden Hazard in a £32million deal.

The Lille flier, 21, had been a top target for Manchester City and United.

But last night Hazard tweeted: “I’m joining the European champions.”

The capture of Hazard is a clear sign Blues owner Roman Abramovich will continue to pump money in following their glory night in Munich.

City were believed to be in pole position to sign one of the hottest young talents in Europe after watching him several times.

But they went cool on him as they were concerned about his £170,000-a-week

wage demands plus the agent’s fee. Hazard also made it clear he would like to play just off a frontman and City already have title hero Sergio

Aguero in that position.

That made it a straight shootout between Chelsea and United — and Hazard has chosen the Blues.

Kalou set for German move

C

hampions League win ner Salomon Kalou looks set to turn his back on the Premier League and join German side Schalke. The Chelsea forward, who has been linked with Liverpool, Feyenoord, Arsenal and Spurs, is out of contract at the end of June after failing to land a new deal. According to the Daily Mirror the 26 year old Ivory Coast International who joined Chelsea for £9 million pounds in 2006 is now set to make the move to the Bundesliga. Kalou won the Premier League, four FA Cups, the League cup and the Champions League during his six spell at Stamford Bridge and scored 57 goals in 251 games in all competitions.

This season he found a place in the starting line up hard to come by making just 12 league appearances and scoring one goal although he did start the

Champions League final win over Bayern Munich looks set to turn his back on the Premier League and join German side Schalke.

•Hazard

•Kalou

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012 — 31

England Euro 2012 squad confirmed R

oy Hodgson has Liverpool forward Andy submitted his final 23- Carroll handed the number man squad for England’s Euro nine shirt.

There are no late surprises as 2012 campaign, with

•Hodgson

Scott Parker, Danny Welbeck and Glen Johnson retained their places despite recent injury scares.

And Carroll, who struggled for large periods with Liverpool this season before rediscovering some form towards the back end of the season, was given the much sought-after number nine slot.

It is not the first time Carroll has been handed a significant number nine jersey with tall striker impressing for Newcastle for the first half of the 2010/11 season wearing the iconic shirt.

Gareth Barry was on Monday ruled out of the tournament in Poland and Ukraine after suffering a tear to his lower abdomen in the 1-0 friendly

win against Norway over the weekend.

Everton defender Phil Jagielka was called up as his replacement after manager Roy Hodgson said he would “ re-configure” his squad should the Manchester City midfielder miss out.

John Ruddy was the only other casualty, the Norwich goalkeeper, who would have been third choice at the championship, ruled out due to a broken finger and replaced by Birmingham rookie Jack Butland.

Squad list and numbers: 1 Hart, 2 Johnson, 3 Cole, 4 Gerrard, 5 Cahill, 6 Terry, 7 Walcott, 8 Lampard, 9 Carroll, 10 Rooney, 11 Young, 12 Baines, 13 Green, 14 Jones, 15 Lescott, 16 Milner, 17 Parker, 18 Jagielka, 19 Downing, 20 OxladeChamberlain, 21 Defoe, 22 Welbeck, 23 Butland.

Arsenal to make a £6m bid for N'Zonzi

W

•Aguero

Aguero dismisses Madrid talk, pledges loyalty to Man City

S

ergio Aguero has pledged to stay at Manchester City for the next four years despite interest from Real Madrid.

The 23-year-old striker will ignore the advice of his father-in-law Diego Maradona, who says the Bernabeu will provide the stage Aguero deserves.

But Aguero is so confident about City’s future he is not even considering leaving the club.

‘My future is at Manchester City,’ Aguero told The Times.

‘I want to stay here. My contract has four years left to run and I see myself being here at least as long as that.

‘There are always rumours, but there is no truth in them.

I am not thinking about moving to Real Madrid or anywhere else.

‘City have treated me very well from the very first day I arrived, I’m settled at the club and my family are happy in Manchester, and I want to stay.

‘I can win everything that I want to win here. We have won one title now and we can go on to win more. Once you have one, you are desperate for the second, the third, the fourth, and it will be the same with us.

‘We won the Premier League this season. Why shouldn’t we believe we can win it in years to come, too?

‘We will be even better next season, I am certain of that.

We had a lot of new players getting to know each other

this year. We want to keep going.

‘It is fundamental to carry on winning. We will have more power next season, obviously.

We will just keep getting stronger and better.’

ith the summer transfer window almost open, we’ll keep you up to date with the latest transfer news. Today sees Arsenal linked with a £6m bid for a Blackburn Rovers midfielder. Arsenal will make an opening bid of £6m for Blackburn midfielder Steven N’Zonzi, if reports in the Mirror are to be believed.

The report claims that Arsen Wenger is keen to strengthen his squad this summer and add to the signing of Lukas Podolski. Midfield is believed to be an area of concern for Wenger and N’Zonzi is on a three-man wish-list that also includes Javi Martinez of Athletic Bilbao, and Rennes’ Yann M’Vila.

Both Martinez and M’Vila would cost a lot more than

N’Zonzi, and the Mirror say that the Gunners have already made enquiries to Rovers regarding the giant midfielder. The 23-year-old impressed for Blackburn last season, despite their relegation from thePremier League, and his power and physical presence is understood to appeal to Wenger. The French under 21 international has three years remaining on his contract but is keen for a move back to the Premier League and Arsenal are ready to test Rovers resolve with a £6m bid. At 6ft 4 inches, there is no doubt N’Zonzi would add a presence to Arsenal’s midfield that many say has been lacking in recent years and there will be the obvious comparisons made with Patrick Vieira, should he move to the Emirates.

•N’Zonzi

Muntari seals permanent AC Milan deal

S

ulley Ali Muntari has sealed his permanent contract with Italian giants, the Ghana midfielder has said.

The 27-year-old says he has signed a two-year deal with the former European champions.

Muntari had a successful half-season loan spell from rivals Inter as his contract ended with the latter.

But after managing to score three goals in 13 appearances for AC Milan they tabled an offer for him to stay at the club.

Muntari says he has signed the deal which was heavily speculated in the Italian media to be completed this week.

“I have signed a contract to stay at AC Milan,” Muntari said.

Muntari signed for Inter in 2008 in a € 16 million plus bonuses move from Portsmouth.

He previously played for Udinese from 2002 to 2007.

•Torres

Torres ready to impress in friendly

F

•Muntari

ernando Torres is trying to put a season of struggles behind him to focus on Spain’s campaign to defend its European Championship title.

The Chelsea striker will look to impress on Wednesday when Spain plays a friendly against South Korea in Switzerland.

Four years ago, Torres scored the winning goal at the Euro 2008 final. This year, he was not assured a spot in Spain’s squad until a late season turnaround coupled with alltime leading scorer David

Villa’s absence to injury.

Torres, who has 88 caps for the World Cup champions, played sparingly for the Blues on their way to win the Champions League and FA Cup this season. Following talks with the Chelsea brass, Torres is optimistic about his future at the club and certain his form will pick up at the start of the European tournament in Poland and Ukraine next month.

“Physically I feel very good and fresh because I haven’t had the drain of so many C M Y K

32— Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012

AGF backs FRC on reforms, public sector accounting

African Economic Outlook warns against excessive optimism

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HE Accountant-General of the Federation, Mr Niyi Otunla, has declared the backing of his office for the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRC) in its efforts to achieve compliance with financial reporting standards in the public and private sectors as well as harmonising corporate governance rules.

Otunla made this pledge while welcoming the Executive Secretary of the FRC, Mr Jim Obazee, to his office in Abuja.

Emphasising the need for standardisation of public sector accounting, Otunla promised to collaborate with the FRC in formulation of a Road map for the adoption of International Public Sector Accounting Standards in the country.

He also identified with the quest by the FRC to register professionals rendering services to public entities by causing the circularisation of letters to Treasury Officers to make production of FRC Certificate of registration mandatory.

In his address, Obazee attributed the quest to register professionals which is a cardinal function of the FRC to the need to ensure accountability by professionals.

He also attributed the recent corporate financial problems experienced in the country to weakness of corporate governance, saying none of the professionals that were indicted had been brought to book so far.

H e , h o w e v e r, s a i d i t would not be business as usual with the coming on stream of the FRC which is charged with harmonisation of corporate governance rule.

Disclosing that the Council is ready to combine its punitive functions with collaboration and educative efforts, he said the IFRS Academy established by the FRC would start operation at the site of the Capital Market Institute in the FCT in July.

The FRC which was established by the FRC Act 2011 to replace the NASB with expanded functions is charged with accounting standards (private and public sectors), auditing, valuation, and actuarial standards as well as rules of corporate governance. It has already commenced registration of professionals.

By BABAJIDE KOMOLAFE

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HE Africa Economic Out look has predicted a positive outlook for African economies but warned against excessive optimism about the economic growth prospect of the Continent.

The report, which was launched yesterday in Arusha, Tanzania, as a prelude to the 2012 annual meetings of the African Development Bank (AfDB) Group is a flagship compendium of data on 53 African countries jointly published by the AfDB, the OECD, the UNDP and the UN Economic Commission for Africa.

Africa’s economy grew 3.4 percent in 2011, with North Africa recording 0.5 percent growth compared to subSaharan Africa’s over 5 percent growth in that year.

“The economic outlook for Africa remains optimistic.

Natural resource-rich economies are expected to do better than more mature emerging economies,” The African Economic Outlook said.

The report attributes growth to natural resources exports, migrant remittances and good economic policies maintained by some of the continent’s countries, aided

by good weather and relative stability in the international market.

However, it warned that the crisis in Europe which is Africa’s premier economic and trading partner could undermine demand for exports.

“The continued economic crisis in the euro area may

reduce demand for African exports, while lowering external resource inflows,” it said.

In the same vein, AfDB President, Donald Kaberuka, commended African countries for maintaining growth, but urged caution given the uncertain external

environment.

“I appeal for caution and not to show excessive optimism with regard to the continent’s economic growth, because there are other issues that need to be considered carefully,” the President said at the report’s launching ceremony.

From left: Director Operations, National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), Mrs. Cecelia Yahaya; Marshal, Federal Road Safety Corp (FRSC), Osita Chijoka displaying his National Identity Number (NIN) certificate with DG/CEO, MrChris Onyemenam and Head, Legal, Mrs. Carol Ojukwu both of NIMC after Chijioka registered at the NIN enrolment centre in NIMC headquarters, Abuja .

Peace is critical to entrepreneur’s survival —Ojeagbase

BY AHMED IBRAHIM

E

NTREPRENEURS and Entrepreneurship can only strive in an environment where there is peace and progress, says Dr. Sunny Obazu Ojeagbase, publisher Success Digest.

He spoke at the Success Digest Enterprise Awards Sponsors’ Appreciation Dinner held on Friday.

He said, “Nigeria is beset with many problems. Some of the problems are understandable because we are a multi-cultural society.

But far too many of our problems cannot and should not be explained away by blaming our different cultures for it. Take for instance the issue of power supply. It’s more than thirty years that we have been talking about this problem.

All manners of solutions have been proffered and so much money has been expended to forestall the light in Nigeria but the darkness has

persisted. When an individual or a nation is confronted with challenge that seems to defy human solutions, the only option left is to turn to God for help”.

“One thing that is clear is that most Nigerians know what is wrong with our nation. Almost every one of us is an expert in that area.

But what we are in short supply of are people and corporate organizations who will step on the plate and start to correct those things we say are wrong with our country.”

He said that the SuccessDigest Enterprise Awards is one of the initiatives of Success Attitude Development Center (SADC), a nongovernmental organization formed in 1995 with the mission to raise and nurture successful entrepreneurs whose business is driven by fear of God, burning desire to care for their families and unquenchable thirst to do well in the community.

“Our vision is to empower people to dislodge the negative mindset that holds them captive and make them live in poverty and squalor to a positive mindset that wakes their sleeping giant to rise and shine. We are to teach them how to develop positive attitudes that will enable them to accept responsibility for their lives and not depend solely on government or relations to take care of their unlimited needs.

“Entrepreneurship is a difficult vocation. And I dare say it I a lot more difficult doing it in Nigeria than most other places. That is why we listed SuccessDigest Enterprise Awards (SDEA), awards money cannot buy, as one of our NGO’s achievement.

“Through the awards we have been able to bring into focus credible entrepreneurs that Nigerians would be proud of. Thanks to our sponsors, this award does not come with a price tag. No

individual or company has ever received SDEA award by paying for it.

“But we are still confronted with some interesting challenges I am about to reel out in that light.

Creating awareness for our NGO and what we are doing.

This is a big challenge because there are millions of Nigerians that could still benefit from our wealth empowerment programmes that are not being reached because of our limited resources. We need the support of media owners, corporate organizations and individuals to join hands with us in creating this awareness. It’s appropriate for me to acknowledge the help we have received form some media owners, especially Brilla FM and Beat FM in this regard.

“Lack of sufficient funds to continue our entrepreneurship courses like the Basic Certificate Course in Entrepreneurship (BCCE).”

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012—33

Insurance industry: Exploring the option of reputation risks C

I

n spite of the crucial place of reputation mantra, it is most regretful that different stakeholders prioritize corporate reputation in a different order. For example, not surprising, investors believe that financial performance is by far the most important characteristics followed by quality of management. For customers, however, the quality of services and products, together with customer service are the highest priorities.

Accountancy practices do not allow many companies to put a financial value on their own corporate reputation in the balance sheet. They treat the inclusion of individual product brand value or Director’s reputation with a wave of the hand in their financial calcu-

Consumers eager for life insurance —Survey

A

Key Account Manager, Ugochukwu Okwuchukwu; Dentist, Dr. Ogechukwu Nwankwo; Dentist, Dr. Yinka Osho; and Medical Detailing Representative, Lanre Awolokun, all of GlaxoSmithKlime Nigeria, when Macleans Milk Teeth conducted a free fun dental screening for children at Shoprite Ikeja to mark this year's Children's Day. Photo: Biodun Ogunleye.

lus. Contrariwise, PR pundits have continued to hold the views that a company’s reputation conservatively constitutes between 66 and 100 per cent of its annual revenues.

T

he question that may be agitating for answer therefore is; how can a company’s reputation be at a risk? The answer is simple. Although a single occurrence or event-on

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OMPANIES operating in today’s complex and fast changing business environment are exposed to an increasingly diverse set of risks.

For many, these risks can be divided into three distinct categories -operational, financial, and business- with different individuals in the company being responsible for each one.

However, one which has continued to cry for cover within and beyond our clime is image or reputation risk. We are definitely in an epoch when image matters above all things.

This underscores the popular aphorism that image is everything. Whether as an individual or corporate institution, image projection and protection has remained a valued endeavour that must be factored into decisions of individuals or organizations. Image or reputation, as some prefer to call it, comprises three fundamental elements, namely; personality which has to do with the character and ethos of the organization guiding its operational behavior; identity, which is the totality of what you or your organization says or wants to be seen as; and perception which denotes how stakeholders view your company or impression that they hold about the organization.

A company’s reputation is important because it affects the ways by which various stakeholders behave towards it.

This applies in equal measure to employees, investors, customers and the general public and influences such key issues as employee retention, customer satisfaction, customer’s loyalty and investor relations.

Organisations that will have sustainable existence needed to constantly realize that reputation is built in the realm of the mind as a set of memories, perceptions and opinions that sit in your stakeholders’ consciousness.

BRIEF

liability, losses are defined by the courts. Additional losses such as the increased cost working, following an event, are often covered under insurance policies. What is not covered is the impact on the company’s reputation.

Of the various types of risks, reputation risk is perhaps the hardest for insurers to tackle.

The reason is because reputation is essentially an intangi-

Of the various types of risks, reputation risk is perhaps the hardest for insurers to tackle.

The reason is because reputation is essentially an intangible asset that accountants and specialist firms are still struggling to quantity in monetary terms

its own-may rarely threaten a business reputation. More often than not, it is an event followed by poor management of the consequences that jeopardize corporate reputation. Events that sound reputation alarms include fraud, marketing fiasco, hostile take-over; loss of regulatory approval, etcetera.

But how does the insurance industry mitigate reputation risks? Traditionally, there are traditional types of risks underwritten by the industry namely occupational risks such as property damage and employers liability. In such cases, quantifying the immediate losses involved is straightforward. For property it is a case of establishing the value of the property and in

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ble asset that accountants and specialist firms are still struggling to quantity in monetary terms. Because of this, very little cover has been available to companies that want to protect themselves against damage to their intangible assets, brand value, reputation and future income these will generate.

Although insurance may respond to the immediate losses resulting from product failure –sure as recall costs and third party claims- it has not traditionally provided an effective method of protecting a brand.

Given the unstable nature of the Nigerian society and economy coupled with its attendant negative impact on corporate existence, the insurance industry must begin to think about

how to make itself relevant in providing covers for this emerging risk.

I

t is a known fact that tradi tional insurance offers no protection for reputation, despite the fact that research had shown adverse publicity to be directors’ greatest fear. For instance, the nation’s financial services sector of which the banking sector is a principal arm had recently witnessed terrific summersaults, leading to the closure or merger of some banks, while their high profile managers of yesterday find themselves in the nadir of social significance. The same goes for other companies in other sectors of the economy whose image ratings in the general and stock market had nosedived considerably, with negative impact on the fortunes of the companies and the individuals involved.

As part of the increasing desire to grow the insurance industry in Nigeria, it has become apposite for the industry to critically view and address its mind to this area of risk. To avail itself of help on how to go about this, the industry need to engage the services or input of specialist consultants and PR practitioners that would assist with scientific identification of image risks and proactive action needed to soften its impact. This would no doubt be another avenue for growing the Nigeria insurance market in order to bolster its direly needed contribution to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product.

Tope Adaramola is Assistant Director of PR, Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers topejanet2000@yahoo.com

prime reason many uninsured individuals don't have insurance coverage is that no carrier has invited them to purchase their products, according to a Deloitte survey of life insurance buyers.

Even insured individuals who are open to buying additional coverage often say that they have not been solicited by carriers.

"From our survey it is clear that life insurance is very much on the minds of many consumers," said Rebecca C. Amoroso, Vice Chairman and U.S. Insurance Leader for Deloitte LLP, who was the survey's executive sponsor.

Adds Amoroso, "A significant percentage of respondents have simply not been offered coverage recently; many also noted that they never shop for coverage on their own initiative. Not soliciting their business exacerbates this gap between insurers' interests and consumers' needs."

Rate increases hit WA households after floods

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HE consumer backlash to compulsory flood cover has spread to WA, where some residents face substantial premium increases from insurers that have expanded flood cover. Householders have told the WA media of contents insurance premiums up to seven times more expensive than last year if their homes are deemed to be at risk of flooding.

IAG’s WA subsidiary SGIO has included flood cover in all home and contents policies since January 9.

“The fact that a particular area hasn’t flooded for a number of years does not mean there is no risk of flooding,” an SGIO spokesman told insuranceNEWS.com.au. He says flood cover is automatically added to most customers’ policies for “minimal extra cost”, but around 2.5% of WA customers have some flood risk and will pay a premium reflecting this.

“If a customer believes they have [flood risk] data that is more comprehensive or detailed than ours, they should contact us and we’ll review our assessment of their property,” the spokesman said.

The issue has mostly affect-

34 —

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012—35

How leaders battled for office THE 2011 general polls presented interesting scenarios. Those, who got elected had to wage a series of battles on many fronts – intra-party, inter-party and at the law courts. Some of them including President Goodluck Jonathan had to survive high-wire intrigues and politicking to pick the tickets of their various political parties before facing other candidates at the polls. Across the 36 states of the federation, most of the governors, who emerged did not have it easy. And some of the battles are still being waged at the law courts. Last Friday, the Supreme Court gave Abia State Governor, Theodore Orji, a clean bill of health and an Abuja Federal High Court handed Enugu State Governor, Chief Sullivan Chime, a similar reprieve last week. One year after, the effects of these battles are still being felt in the polity in the form of little or non-delivery of democracy dividends.

BY CLIFFORD NDUJIHE, DEPUTY POLITICAL EDITOR

Jonathan’s battle O mount the saddle of power in Aso Rock, President Jonathan fought and won a host of political and legal battles. First, as Vice President, a ruling clique in the Presidency, for a while, prevented him from functioning as acting president when late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua was terminally ill and was flown to Saudi Arabia for medication. Yar-Adua was flown out in November 2009 without handing over to Jonathan. The nation remained without a leader for three months as the controversy and debate over the issue lasted. The Senate had to break the ice in February 2010, employing the Doctrine of Necessity. It legislated that Jonathan should be sworn-in as acting President pending the return of President Yar’Adua. It also made a law that providing that once the president or governor is out of the country or state for 21 days, the vice president or deputy governor will assume the position of acting president or acting governor respectively..

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As acting president, Jonathan never reverted to the post of vice president. Yar’Adua was flown into the country worse than he was before he was flown out and he was too ill to resume presidential duties. He died a few days later and Jonathan was effectively sworn-in as president.

That over, the Otuoke, Bayelsa State-born politician had to face, arguably, the toughest political battle of his life when he wanted to run for the presidency. A group of leading Northern Politicians under the banner of Northern Political Leaders Forum (NPLF) led by Malam Adamu Ciroma, said his running would hurt the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) zoning formula, which in their view, ceded the presidential seat to the North for eight years. They wanted Jonathan to parry his ambition and allow a northerner emerge as PDP candidate and thereafter be elected as president to complete the North and late President Yar’Adua’s second

term of four years as two years had already been lost.

Jonathan was to insist on his constitutional right to run. The NPLF got northern presidential aspirants aspiring on the platform of the ruling party to agree on pursuing the option of a consensus northern presidential candidate, who would meet Jonathan at the PDP presidential primaries. The move had the blessing of Generals Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida and Aliyu Gusau (rtd), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and Dr Bukola Saraki.

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Presidential duties

*Uduaghan

Unanimously, the apex court held that the CPC failed to discharge the burden of proof placed upon it by the Electoral Act to prove its allegation that the Independent National Election Commission, INEC, did not conduct the election according to the provisions of the law

At the end, Atiku Abubakar was chosen as the ‘consensus candidate’ by a committee of ‘nine wise men’. He squared up against Jonathan at the PDP primaries and was beaten squarely.

Consequently, the stage for the third political battle – election proper, was set for Jonathan, where he had to battle veteran Presidential Candidate, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (rtd) of the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC); Nuhu Ribadu of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN); and Ibrahim Shekarau of the All

Electoral contest

*Okorocha Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) among others. With over 25 million votes to Buhari’s 12 million (Buhari was his closest challenger), Jonathan recorded a landslide victory.

As expected Buhari went to court to challenge Jonathan’s victory. However, on December 27, 2011, the Supreme Court, in Abuja, affirmed the decision of the Court of Appeal and upheld the victory of President Jonathan at polls. Unanimously, the apex court held that the CPC failed to discharge the burden of proof placed upon it by the Electoral

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Act to prove its allegation that the Independent National Election Commission, INEC, did not conduct the election according to the provisions of the law.

In the lead judgment, which was read by Justice Olufunmilayo Adekeye, the court held that CPC’s allegation of noncompliance was not proven and that the burden did not shift to the electoral body or any of the respondents, to prove that the allegation of non-compliance was enough to have affected the outcome of the election.

Battle of intrigues in the states In the states, most of the

validity of a parallel primary that saw Orji emerge as the PDP standard bearer. Whereas, Emenike won the primary conducted by the Abia State PDP Exco, Orji emerged from a congress organised by the National Executive Committee of the party and both exercises were monitored by the INEC as required by law.

Aside emerging from an alleged kangaroo process, Emenike told the court that Orji was not a member of the PDP and he did not submit any nomination form for the election or any membership card of the PDP, which was one of the requirements in the nomination form. However, the courts, at all levels, took sides with Orji. In a lead judgment last Friday, Justice John Afolabi Fabiyi of the Supreme Court maintained that the lower courts did a nice job by affirming the governor’s victory.

It held that only the NEC of a political party had the powers to nominate a candidate to be sponsored for any given electoral contest.

governors, who got elected did so with the skin of their teeth. On account of litigations and different dates of swearing-in, the April 2011 gubernatorial elections did not hold in 10 states.

Elections for the 10 states were to be held only when the four year tenure of the governors ran out. As of April 2011, the governors of Adamawa, Anambra, Bayelsa, Cross River, Edo, Ekiti, Kogi, Ondo, Osun and Sokoto states had served less than four years due to their taking office only after nullification of the election of former incumbents.

Thus, only 26 states had governorship elections then. The general guber election was on April 26 and the second (Kaduna and Bauchi) was on April 28.

How it went in the South-East: With the election in Anambra having been held in 2010, only four of the five South-East states – Abia, Ebonyi, Enugu and Imo witnessed guber polls in 2011.

In Abia, Governor Orji, who first decamped from the Peoples Progressive Alliance (PPA) to the All Progressives Grand Alliance and later to the PDP, a few days to the election, faced a massive discontent before picking the PDP ticket. Orji had to resolve a post-2007 face-off with Chief Onyema Ugochukwu, who flew the PDP flag in 2007 and lost the polls to Orji, who ran on the banner of the PPA. But the governor still had a tough nut in Chief Ikechi Emenike, who claimed he was the authentic PDP flagbearer for the 2011 polls.

The matter was resolved last Friday by the Supreme Court in favour of Orji.

Ikechi had challenged the

Governor Chime of Enugu faced a similar battle. En route the polls, the Enugu PDP became factionalised with the then PDP National Chairman, Dr Okwesilieze Nwodo leading one camp and Chime leading the other. Both camps had parallel candidates and efforts to reunite them proved abortive. Nwodo lost his PDP headship a few weeks to the elections and the Chime camp was to have the upper hand, forcing the other faction to go court.

Justice Adamu Bello of a Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, last week, declined jurisdiction and dismissed the suit seeking to set aside the primary that produced Chime as the PDP candidate.

Chief Alexander Chukwuemeka Obiechina, one of the aspirants at the party’s gubernatorial primary held last January instituted the suit. He challenged the validity of the party’s primary through which Chime emerged as the party’s flag bearer in the last gubernatorial election which the governor won.

The INEC, during the trial, had agreed with Chief Obiechina to the effect that the governorship primaries of the PDP in Enugu State, which produced the governor as the party’s flag bearer, did not comply with the relevant provisions of the Electoral Act, 2011.

The court in its decision held that what transpired at the party’s primary could best be considered as an intra-party affair, which the court had no power to interfere Continues on page 36

36—Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012

Battle of intrigues in the states with. The court further held that it lacked the requisite jurisdiction to wade into the matter and subsequently upheld the preliminary objection filed by Governor Chime and the PDP. In Imo, Governor Rochas Okorocha of APGA had a handful before stopping incumbent Chief Ikedi Ohakim of the PDP from being re-elected. After a testy and tight duel on April 26, 2011, there was no clear winner. A supplementary election was held on May 6, 2011 in some councils where the April 26 polls were inconclusive before Okorocha narrowly emerged victorious.

Ohakim challenged the results and after a long legal combat, the Supreme Court on March 2, 2012, affirmed Okorocha as the winner of the polls.

In a unanimous judgment, Justice Sylvester Ngwuta struck out PDP’s appeal against Okorocha for lack of merit. He declared the judgment of the Court of Appeal, which was the basis of the appeal a nullity because reasons for the judgment were given outside the 60 days allowed under Section 287 of the 1999 Constitution as amended.

Election proper Governor Martins Elechi of Ebonyi State had no problems retaining the PDP ticket. His headache was at the election proper, where Julius Ucha of the ANPP, among others, gave him sleepless nights. After the INEC returned Elechi as winner, Ucha kicked and dragged Elechi to court, from the election tribunal through the Court of Appeal and finally to the Supreme Court.

However, the Supreme Court, early March, upheld the decision of the Appeal Court and declared that Governor Elechi was duly elected during the April 2011 governorship election in the state.

South-South war: Of the six states of the South-South, only Akwa Ibom, Delta and Rivers witnessed guber polls in April 2011. The trio of Bayelsa, Cross River and Edo states were on stand-by then. Governors Rotimi Amaechi (Rivers), Godswill Akpabio (Akwa Ibom) and Emmanuel Uduaghan did not have problems reclaiming the PDP tickets.

However, while Amaechi had an easy ride at the polls in spite of litigation from some of his opponents, the scenario was markedly different for Akpabio and Uduaghan, who weathered a testy challenge from Great Ogboru of the Democratic Peoples Party (DPP). In fact, Uduaghan faced two guber polls

in four months – a re-run election on January 6 and the April 26 exercise and won both. Ogboru challenged the outcome of both elections at the law courts and Uduaghan still emerged victorious.

The Supreme Court on March 2, upheld the victory of Governor Uduaghan in the April 26, 2011 governorship election. It dismissed on technical grounds, the petition of Ogboru, who had gone to the apex Court to challenge the earlier ruling of the Appeal Court in Benin.

In a unanimous judgment delivered by Justice Mahmud Mohammed, the Supreme Court nullified the judgment of the Benin Division of the Court of Appeal, which formed the kernel of Ogboru’s appeal and instead upheld the judgment of the Delta State Governorship Election Tribunal, which had earlier ruled that Uduaghan won the election.

The Supreme Court, in its judgment, noted that the appeal court on January 5, 2012, gave its pronouncement but reserved details of the judgment for another date, which it gave on January 27, 2012.

However, Justice Mohammed held that the Court of Appeal had no power to defer reasons for its judgment on a governorship election petition matter since it was not the last court of competent jurisdiction on governorship election matters.

Substantial justice: In the case

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Continued from page 35

*Akpabio

*Chime

South-South, there were no guber elections in three (Osun, Ekiti and Ondo) states of the South-West geo-political zone.

Polls were only held in Lagos, Ogun and Oyo where ACN candidates overran their PDP opponents to make the zone an opposition haven. In Lagos, once Governor Babatunde Fashola got the nod of the ACN hierarchy to run after an initial foot-dragging, the road was paved for him to retain his seat at the Alausa Round House.

Also, Ibikunle Amosun (Ogun) and Abiola Ajimobi (Ogun) made their marks.

The central battle in North-

While Amaechi had an easy ride at the polls in spite of litigation from some of his opponents, the scenario was markedly different for Akpabio and Uduaghan, who weathered a testy challenge from Great Ogboru of the Democratic Peoples Party (DPP)

of Akpabio, the ACN candidate, Senator John James Akpanudoedehe, on May 8, 2012 got the Supreme Court to order the tribunal to re-try the case, which Akpabio had earlier won at the lower courts. Ruling on Akpanudoedehe appeal, the apex court held that substantial justice rather than technicalities should be considered in arriving at the merit of the case.

The Chief Justice of Nigeria [CJN], Justice Dahiru Musdapher, who headed the five-man panel of Justices for the appeal lampooned Judges who sacrificed substantial justice on the alter of technicalities. Other members of the panel who agreed with the CJN were Justice Walter Onnogen; John Fabiyi; Funke Adekeye and Mary Odili.

As it was in South-West: Like

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Central: In North-Central geopolitical zone, there was no election in Kogi on April 26. And in the remaining five states were the polls were held, the PDP had the upper hand in four via (Abdul-Fatai Belgore, Kwara); Jonah David Jang, Plateau); Mu’Azu Babangida Aliyu, Niger); and Gabriel Suswam, Benue) while Umaru Tanko Al_Makura of the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) won in Nasarawa State.

Among the lot, Suswam still has a legal axe to grind with his main opponent, Professor Steven Ugbah of the ACN. The Supreme Court on May 8, ordered the retrial of Ugbah’s petitions by the State Governorship election petition tribunal, which had earlier turned down the petition on technical excuses. The CJN gave the ruling on the day he

ordered retrial of Akpanudoedehe’s case.

Delivering ruling on the appeal in Abuja, the apex court was unanimous in its decision that substantial justice rather than technicalities should be considered in arriving at the merit of the case.

The Court of Appeal sitting in Markudi had dismissed the petition of Prof. Ugbah against Suswam’s victory on the grounds that the petitioner did not seek the leave of the tribunal before bringing his motion exparte for the pre-trial session.

In her judgment, Justice .U. Onyemenan held that Ugbah and the ACN did not actually seek the leave of the tribunal before bringing the exparte motion for pre-trial in accordance with Section 47 of the first schedule of the Electoral Act, 2010 as amended. Justice Onyemenan therefore declared the ruling of 29th June, 2011 delivered by the lower tribunal to hear the ACN petition on its merit as a nullity and resolved the matter in favour of the PDP Miffed by the miscarriage of justice by the election tribunal judges, the Justice Dahiru Musdapher-led apex court held that it was wrong for the Court of Appeal to apply mere technicalities rather than going into the merit of the petition.

North-East’s dusty battles: In the North-East, the ruling parties lived up to expectation winning in their areas of dominance after dusty duels with their opponents.

There was no election in Adamawa in April 2011. For the remaining five states, while the PDP won in three – Bauchi (Isa Yuguda); Taraba (Danbaba Suntai) and Gombe (Ibrahim Dankwambo), the ANPP retained two – Borno (Kashim Shettima) and Yobe (Ibrahim Gaidam), who was being elected for the first time as governor, having assumed office two years earlier

on the death of the former governor, Senator Ali Mamman.

Issues arising from the contests have been trashed at the courts.

North-West: ANPP’s last-ditch challenge in Zamfara: There are seven states in the North-West geo-political zone. Before the elections, the ANPP was in control of Kano, Zamfara, Sokoto and Kebbi, leaving only Jigawa, Kaduna and Katsina for the PDP. But few months to the polls, the governors of Zamfara, Kebbi and Sokoto defected to the PDP, leaving only Kano for the ANPP. The defections and controversies trailing them prepared the stage for tough guber contests in the zone apart from Sokoto where there was no election in April 2011. The PDP via Dr Rabiu Kwakwanso staged a return to the Government House in Kano after an eight-year hiatus.

K

wakwanso was governor of the state between 1999 and 2003 before losing the seat to Shekarau of the ANPP. While Ibrahim Shema (Katsina), Saidu Dakingari (Kebbi), Patrick Ibrahim Yakowa (Kaduna) and Sule Lamido (Jigawa) retained their states for the PDP, Mahmud Aliyu Shinkafi of Zamfara State could not do so for his new party.

He was trounced by his sonin-law, Abdul’aziz Abubakar Yari of the ANPP, who refused to defect with him to the PDP. While Yari polled 514,962 votes Shinkafi scored 460,656 votes. A dissatisfied Shinkafi approached the courts to overturn Yari’s victory but his prayers were not answered. Upholding Yari’s election in a ruling last February, Justice Muntakar Commassie of the apex court said that both the Zamfara State Elections Petitions Tribunal and the Court of Appeal did sufficient justice to the petition and aligned himself with it.

To be concluded

Vanguard anguard,,

By Joshua Adeyemo Phone 08056180139

TAURUS: EVEN, if friends and others are helpful and pledging loyalty today, they may be forced and get on your nerve tomorrow when effects of fullmoon’ll come to play.

— 37

THOUGHT FOR TODAY

By Richard Eromosele

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HEN the crafty devil wanted to deceive GEMINI: WHATEVER can lead to avoidable trouble Eve, he confused her tomorrow, either at home or along your career/business lines, should be well taken care of today. Be by telling her what she wants to hear. very open.

The holy writ says, CANCER: YOUR best bet today is to seek important the devil told Eve ‘if co-operation of influential people and that of your you eat of the forbidspouse/partner. The more legal conscious you are, den fruit, you will be the better for you.

LEO: IF others want you to conclude an important financial transactions that can possibly be done today, you’ll need to say no and go ahead as tomorrow may not be as conducive as today.

WEDNESD AY , MA Y 30, 2012 WEDNESDA MAY

LEISURE

YOUR LUCK TODAY

abound of very skillful talents who got themselves delike God. But did she high. It gives them stroyed through actually look like boldness. Yes, they drugs.

God after tasting the are bold: But what Stop being hooked forbidden fruit? kind of boldness? to drugs. Drugs deThis is the same Animal boldness? stroy your life, deway drug addicts Some say, it leads to stroy your family, defeel. They believe high performance. stroy your health and when they take But, at what ex- destroy your destiny. drugs it makes them pense? Examples Think about it!

TERROR MUDA

Are you on drugs?

in “Never say goodbye”

By Kola Fayemi

VIRGO: IT’S important you don’t take things and people for granted now because they may not be as co-operative tomorrow as they are now. Be more loving.

LIBRA: ALTHOUGH there seem to be an air of understanding within your working arena today, tomorrow’s full-moon may turn the whole thing the other way.

SCORPIO: HERE is an exciting day that will climax tomorrow. After a long time, others will see how passionate you can be even in love. Don’t gamble, please.

SAGITTARIUS: IF your desire is to make money today, you will need to be less emotional and prepare for domestic challenges tomorrow. Enjoy your love life.

KAPTAIN AFRIKA

in

“Princess Shii’

By Andy Akman

CAPRICORN: GOOD relationship between the moon in Capricorn and lucky Jupiter in your star sign will bring you good opportunities. Be less argumentative.

AQUARIUS: THIS is your day when things will go according to your plans. Financial success indicated but if you wait till tomorrow, opposition’ll bring disappointment.

PISCES: THE moon in your star sign that encourages you to be as assertive are likely to oppose you tomorrow. Try to be more friendly.

ARIES: HAPPENINGS within your working arena should be taken more seriously now or else, avoidable trouble would start tomorrow. Again, it’s important you are more practical about your health. Be more loving.

VIRGINIA

dadadekola@yahoo.com

ASTROLOGICAL COUNSELLING Send yyour our dat th ttoo the As tr ological datee and place of bir birth Astr trological Counselling, PP.M.B .M.B 1100 00 7, Apapa, Lagos 007,

What,s my immediate future?

Dear Joshua, I am interested in what you are doing. Please tell me what I should expect concerning my immediate future. Would I succeed travelling abroad for business ?

Sule. Epe.

Dear Sule, Few years back you have started a very longer (years) great cycle of success and happiness, and this year you will be moving closer to the peak of the said cycle; meaning that your 42nd year on earth will be much more better than all your previous ones on earth.

Then because of transiting lucky Jupiter in Sagittarius – your Solar 9th house of travelling and distant affairs you can be successful at acquiring visa and have a fruitful foreign travels.

However that is not to say that there will not be any challenge during the year. Actually like it happened about six/seven months ago when work and accident related issues were the major challenges.

Commen3

by Lawrence Akapa

38 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY,

ENSION mounts in Opi, Nsukka Local Government Area, Enugu State as masquerades took turn in the series of rape stories synonymous with the community. The alleged rape of a female student, Ngozika Ugwu, presented mixed feelings and reactions to what may have bedevilled the community in the recent past.

Rape stories in Opi, a community in the university town of Nsukka, have occupied major national dailies, hitting banner headlines, from the three quarters that make up the community, Idi, Ogbozalla and Ibeku.

In 2011, the story of the rape of women between 70 and 80 years spread like wild fire in the country, raising eyebrows on the motive for such inhuman and barbaric act by, especially, youths of the community. Some of them were fingered and allegedly arrested, interrogated by the police but could not be persecuted because of want of evidence.

Following this development, Ada Enugu Women Organisation led by Mrs. Kate Ezeofor stormed the community for a church service at St. Charles Catholic Church parish, Opi to cleanse the land and the old women that were defiled.

Few months later, Opi women took to the streets in protest of yet another rape at Ogbozalla–Opi. The protest attracted the quick intervention of the Chairman, Nsukka Local Government Council, Mr. Tony Ugwu who invited all the stakeholders in the community to discuss the ugly development and proffer solutions. Though it was later discovered that the protest had political undertone, the council boss brokered peace to the satisfaction of all.

Barely few months of enjoying peace in the area, masquerades took turn in the series of rape stories in the community by defiling a 28-year-old undergraduate nursing mother. The victim told Crime Alert in tears that the trauma of the rape will forever live with her but stated that she had forgiven the rapists.

While narrating her ordeal, she appealed to local, state and federal governments to ensure that truth prevails in this country by fighting for the poor masses. Ngozi, who dropped out from her NCE programme at the Enugu State College of Education (Technical)due to lack of funds after her ordeal, called on concerned Nigerians to come to her aid to enable her go back to school.

She also hinted that the release of one of the suspects on the flimsy excuse that he was going to write his JAMB examination was not encouraging, attributing it to the fact that her family is poor and helpless.

Her story: t happened on March 21, 2012.

There were three masquerades that day but two were spotted and people started running. I was going to fetch water and as people were running, I equally ran and hid somewhere until the two masquerades passed. After the masquerades passed, I came out and continued with my journey. Soon, I heard a child saying that another masquerade was coming. I didn’t see the masquerade but people were running and I ran to enter into someone’s house. The masquerade emerged from a corner (apiam way) and pushed me into the building where I was running to. I tried to escape but could

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I

MAY 30, 2012

not. It caught up with me and started beating me. What surprised me was that the masquerade said it has been looking for me for long and had now caught up with me. I sought to know what I did to deserve such treatment and at the same time pleading for forgiveness but it continued with its threat.

This time, it swore to take me to a bigger masquerade inside the forest, saying it has been long I had been insulting them. My cries for help and that I was a nursing a baby fell on deaf ears. As the masquerade was dragging me along, a man with wrapper came and pleaded with the masquerade to leave me but it refused, saying that I have insulted them for too long. It insisted on taking me to the bigger masquerade which will compel my clan to bring a cow as sacrifice.

All my pleadings with the man who came to my rescue failed. The masquerade dragged me to a bush path,threw me on the ground fell on me.

It held me on the neck to prevent me from shouting and blocked both my eyes and nose. At this stage, I nearly lost consciousness until one man came and rescued me from its grip. He removed the face of the masquerade and that was how he was identified. As soon as he was identified, he ran away.

More people gathered there and helped to take me where I was given first aid treatment at a chemist before I was taken to St. Joseph Hospital, Opi. I didn’t know when I was taken to the hospital. When I started gaining consciousness, I did not see my pant and my bra was torn. It was then I realised that the masquerade raped me. Fear gripped me that the masquerade may have transmitted HIV/AIDS into me.

Doctor’s report altered We went to Nsukka police station and reported the incident. I was surprised that police did not come to the scene of the incident to investigate my claims.

What the police did was to take me to a police doctor, Mercy Clinic along University Market Road, Nsukka. It is surprising that a doctor will give evidence against me in a case of rape I reported. Later, police invited me to their office for interrogation.

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hen I tried to give details of what happened, they shouted that I should shut up and go straight to speak on the doctor’s findings on the case. Surprisingly, the Police asked me to write a letter of apology claiming that the doctor's report said I was not raped.

I did not read the report nor see it. I was forced to write an apology by the police.

While all these were happening, no police officer came to the hospital to take my statement. All the time, nurses would remove drips from my hand so that I would go to the police station to honour their invitation. The masquerade was allegedly arrested and hurriedly released on the flimsy excuse that he was going to write JAMB exams.

Pleas for forgiveness While I was still recuperating, the mother of the suspected person in the masquerade came and pleaded that his son should be forgiven. I told his mother that I have forgiven him. What annoyed me most was that some of his relations which included a policeman that works in Enugu, returned home and instead of sympathizing with me, they took sides in favor of their brother. At a stage, I

•The victim, Ngozi Ugwu

•The masquera

A-B-O-M

Masquerade nursing mother

BY CHINENYEH OZOR, NSUKKA was forced to go to the police station to close the case.

No refund of expenditure The police said that I should not be paid what my family spent in the case and that the family of the suspect should only pay for my hospital bill. The rapist family paid the hospital bill grudgingly. Later, the police invited us again and this time, they asked me to write that I was not raped and I was forced to write that I was not raped. The boy who raped me gave police his name as Asogwa Ifeanyi but people who knew him said, his real names are Ugwunshi Ifeanyi. The police did not also make efforts to invite the witness in the case while the investigation was going on rather, after they concluded that I was not raped, they tried to invite him but he ignored them.

My Education I dropped out from Enugu state college

of education (Technical) due to lack of fund. I was a second year student when I dropped. I entered the tertiary institution in 2007/2008 session. For now, it is very difficult to continue with my education after all I have gone through.

My father is a mason (Brick layer) at Uzo-Uwani L.G.A, Enugu State. We are

My wife wants

BY BARTHOLOMEW MADUEKE 47-year-old man, Andrew Amonu, has told an Oshodi Grade ‘B’ Court in Lagos that his wife, Ada, instituted criminal charges against him while he was in incarceration at the Kirikiri Prisons and also brought her man friend to sleep with her in his matrimonial home.

In his words: “When I was in incarceration at the Kirikiri Prisons after

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Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012 — 39

Shock as drug suspect dies of ruptured wraps of cocain *NDLEA laments, calls for stiffer penalty

By ALBERT AKPOR WO months ago, Mr. Sunday Ozoani Edwin left the shores of this country for one of the South American countries in search of non-existing greener pastures. Before then, the Enugu state born 34- year-old commercial bus driver had worked tirelessly and saved huge amount of money well enough to get him started up in Nigeria. However, he was troubled that the harsh economic reality in the country might not favor any investment. He approached the Nigerian Immigration office in Lagos and got his international passport procured. Shortly afterward, an unnamed friend introduced him to a visa agent who equally assisted in procuring a Brazilian visa. Before long he was set to leave the country for ‘good.’

Precisely on March 3, 2012, Sunny, as he was fondly called, jetted out of Nigeria to Brazil. Curiously, he was taken aback by what he met over there.

First, was language problem . Sunny could not speak a passing Portuguese and so he was always alienated. Second, he could not be employed to do any menial job because he lacked working permit. Soon, frustration sets in. He started visiting pubs and other social joints with the hope to meeting a ‘messiah’; but none surfaced. However,

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ade

•The Late Ozoani Sunny Edwin during one of his visits to a pub, an unnamed Brazilian who could speak English language approached him and after an exchange of pleasantry, the strange visitor announced his mission.

Believing that his appointed time had finally come, he grabbed the offer even without a second thought, an offer to traffic drugs! His joy knew no bounds as they drank and danced to the new

-I-N-A-T-I-O-N

rapes undergraduate five children born to my father and mother.

I am the only daughter.

Police reacts when Crime Alert visited Nsukka Police station, it was gathered that the incumbent Divisional police officer had not assumed office when the matter was incidented but a senior police officer who pleaded anonymity disclosed that a case of assault, occasioning harm was reported at the station but not rape as claimed by the lady stating that the people of the area are very troublesome.

“Any small thing in the area, they will term it rape and rush to the press. You can trace the lady to Opi and find out from her, all that was reported is a case of assault occasioning harm.”

Police Doctor speaks The police doctor, Dr. Ugwu who reportedly examined Ngozika told Crime Alert that he can’t remember such a matter any longer. “I meet different cases and patients on daily basis. Give me sometime to get across to the police to find out the very incident”.

Elders action

Investigations by Crime Alert revealed that the elders in the community, on hearing the rape story, took action by banning masquerades from operating in the area regretting that youths cashed on masquerade which are meant for entertainment to perpetuate all sorts of evil, painting the community in a bad public image. They also reportedly resolved that the family of the masquerade rapist must bring a cow to cleanse the land, or else they will be ostracized.

to squander my wealth with her lovers, man cries out she instituted criminal charges against me, she brought this old man to sleep with her in my own house. This information was all over when I got back after perfecting my bail. I was so ashamed of myself. She is such a callous and unfaithful woman.”

Andrew, whose marriage with Ada is blessed with four children, also told the court that his marriage with his wife is been threatened by a disagreement over the ownership of three pharmaceutical companies which they both claimed they C M Y K

established, saying “my wife is seeking divorce in order to enjoy my investment with one of her man friend, Henry, who is a very old man compared to me.

“Whenever she brings Henry into my home or my places of business, I would entertain him because of my hospitality and kind heart. However, his visits became more frequent, I started suspecting foul play. I confronted my wife on this but she denied it.”

He had told the court that his wife used one of her numerous boyfriends, who is

a military officer, to publicly assault and threaten him to stay clear of his three companies which he said was worth N11m. According to Andrew, his 37-yearold estranged wife wanted to squander his investment with her illicit lovers, adding “I enrolled her for part-time studies at the University of Lagos to earn a degree in Accounting but surprisingly, she dropped out in the fourth year. All the fees I paid went down the drain like that. That is the way she lives her life.”

The acting Court President, Mrs. R.I.

opportunity. In the mean time, like the age-long aphorism of the end justifying the means, Sunny was not oblivious of the fact that he was embarking on a critical journey, a journey that later claimed his life.

While leaving Brazil for Nigeria and having swallowed several wraps of the killer drugs, Sunny was said to have put a call to some of his friends in the country that he was visiting on a business trip and that he would leave almost immediately because his partners back in Brazil did not give enough time.

His friends; some of them former commercial bus drivers were full of excitement and eagerly awaited his arrival. But at the Murtala Mohammed Intentional airport, the story took a different dimension. Unknown to the 34year -old former commercial bus driver that a functional scanning machine was fully active at the airport, Sunny jumped down from the South Africa Airlines, moved excitedly through the machine but was shove aside by eagle-eyed narcotic operatives. He was suspected to have ingesting some substances and therefore, needed profiling. The result of the screening was that Sunny would be placed under observation. Before long, he had started excreting wraps of the hard stuff which tested for cocain.

On the whole, 10 wraps which weighed 180 grams came out from his bowel.

The following day, Sunny started complaining of stomach ache and he was rushed to an undisclosed hospital in Lagos where he later died of ‘complications arising from ruptured wraps of cocain inside his stomach.’

Worried by the sudden demise of the drug suspect coupled with other Nigerians in death row in foreign countries over drug related offences, the Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, Ahmadu Giade reiterated his call for stiffer penalties for drug trafficking. According to him, “Until we get the penalty right, drug trafficking will remain attractive.

Every case of drug trafficking involving type A drugs like cocaine, heroin and methamphetamine runs into several millions of naira. We must therefore wield the big stick against offenders to serve as deterrence.

Adetola, urged their lawyers, Mr. A.E.Lawal, and B.C. Ferguson, representing Ada and Andrew respectively to seek an amicable solution to the couple’s disagreement, ordering Ada to grant her husband (Andrew) unrestricted access to the children.

“There is no problem that is actually too difficult to solve. I urge the counsel to passionately intervene in the matter in the interest of the four children the marriage is blessed with” Adetola said.

After inviting the parties for another round of counseling, Adetola adjourned the case till June 11 for further hearing.

40—VANGUARD , WEDNESDAY, MAY 30,

2012

From left, Managing Director, Noah's Ark Communications Limited, Mr. Lanre Adisa; Managing Director, Chini Productions amd representative of Leuzers Archive in Nigeria, Mr. Nnamdi Ndu and the Creative Director, Noah's Ark Communications, Mr. Abolaji Alausa, at a briefing to announce the listing of the agency in the global Advertising Archive-Luezer's Archive in Lagos, yesterday.

Kaduna police detonate explosive hidden in TV set ADUNA—THE police in Kaduna, yesterday, detonated an improvised explosive device, IED, concealed in a television set and planted at Katsina roundabout on Ahmadu Bello Way. The Commissioner of Police, Mr Jinjiri Abubakar, who confirmed the incident, said the explosive was planted around 4 a.m. and was found around 6 a.m.

“An IED concealed in a television set was found

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this morning after it was planted around 4 a.m. and based on intelligence report, we got to know of it.

“Our men arrived there around 6 a.m. and they successfully detonated it and there was no casualty recorded.“ The News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, reported that the noise of the explosive attracted residents of the area who ran out of their houses for safety.

MAUTECH doctorates for Obasanjo, Musdafa, Nafada

BY UMAR YUSUF

OLA—A total of 4,283 graduands of Modibbo Adama University of Technology, MAUTECH, Yola, are to be awarded certificates, diplomas, and various degrees during its 16th and 17 th convocations scheduled for Friday and Saturday.

Also, three eminent Nigerians, former president, Chief

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ANNIVERSARY: From left, Rt. Rev. Oladapo Babalola, Bishop of Lagos Mainland; Sir Jimmy Coker, Special Guest; Sir David Soremekun, President of the Union; Sir Remi Omotoso, and Sir Emmanuel Akintan, Chairman of the occasion, at the 70th Platinum Anniversary celebration of Men's Christian Union of Williams Memorial Methodist Cathedral, Ago-Ijaye, Lagos, yesterday. Photo: Biodun Ogunleye.

Olusegun Obasanjo, Lamido Adamawa, Alhaji Barkindo Aliyu Mustafa and former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Alhaji Usman Nafada, are to be conferred with honorary doctorates at the convocation.

The vice-chancellor, Professor Bashir Usman, said this in Yola, at a preconvocation briefing in his office.

Why we must restructure Nigeria CNPP hails Amosun over dev now, by Ezeife A

BY SAMUEL OYADONGHA

E N A G O A — FORMER governor of Anambra State, Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife, has said the predicted break up of Nigeria as a corporate entity by the United States in 2015 can only be avoided if the country was urgently restructured.

At a lecture, entitled, “Challenges of Democracy in Nigeria” as part of activities marking the nation’s 13th year of civil rule in Yenagoa, Monday night at the Bayelsa State Banquet Hall, Dr. Ezeife explained that thorough deliberation on geo-political constituents, economy and socio-religious issues by representatives of diverse ethnic groupings were crucial to save the country from disintegration.

He said: “Peace, security and stability of the nation are being eroded because our leaders have shied away from restructuring the country.

“Nigeria is long overdue

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for restructuring. If we don’t restructure now we may break up. ''Restructuring the nation is more urgent and President Goodluck Jonathan's emergence as the leader of the country was through God. It appears to me that the manifest destiny of

Jonathan’s government is the restructuring of Nigeria.”

Ezeife, a former Social Democratic Party, SDP, and Alliance for Democracy, AD, chieftain, who hinged the survival of nation as a corporate entity on restructuring, added,“if we want

Nigeria to remain an indivisible entity, our political leaders must kick-start the restructuring of the nation so that the prediction on break up of our country would not come to pass. We need unity and stability and that is why we must restructure.”

Cleric charges Jonathan on security votes

BY OLAYINKA

LATONA

L

AGOS—PRESIDENT of National Bible School, NBS, Dr. Murphy

Akrasi, has charged the Federal Government to monitor the monies voted for security in the 2012 Appropriation Bill for the fund to achieve the

Ondo gov promises residents more goodies KURE—THE Ondo State Governor, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, has assured that his government will continue to serve the people of the state diligently even as he commended them for their cooperation which has enabled the government record tremendous successes in the over three years of his administration.

In his Democracy Day message, Mimiko

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commended the people for their perseverance and efforts at sustaining the nation’s nascent democracy in the face of prevailing challenges, insisting that “very soon we shall get to the Promised Land.”

He said but for the cooperation of the people, his government’s initiatives in the area of education, health, urban renewal, among others, would not have been possible.

desired result.

Akrasi said this at the convocation and ordination of the institute at the Breath of Life Conference Centre, Obanikoro, Lagos.

He said: “There must be money to be able to fight insecurity, because whatever instrument you choose has to be paid for.

That security fund needs proper monitoring and commitment to achieve the desired result.”

While commending President Goodluck Jonathan on his initiative on the allocation of the security fund, he urged security agencies to be focussed while handling the security challenges in the country

BEOKUTA—THE Conference of Nigerian Political Parties, CNPP, Ogun State Chapter has commended Governor Ibikunle Amosun over his laudable infrastructural development of the state in his first year in office.

In a statement, after a meeting in Abeokuta, by its Chairman, Otunba Owolabi Odebudo and Secretary General, Mr. Abiola Lawal, the group commended the state government for providing armoured tanks and vehicles for the police while it also appreciated the government for providing vigilante group to complement security agents’ efforts in

combating crimes and other social vices in the state.

The group called on the government to hasten the repairs and reconstruction of dilapidated roads, as well as intervene and fast-track the transformation of Ogun State to a model state.

On the local government election in Ogun State, CNPP vowed to challenge the Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission on its electoral guidelines for the July 21 local government election, alleging disobedience of a court judgment which forbids the electoral body from issuing any electoral guidelines.

Idahosa for CWFI's 'Ladies-inWaiting' talk shop HE National Outreach Directorate of the Christian Women Fellowship International, CWFI, will hold a talk shop, with the theme: “Ladies in Waiting ...” on June 5, at the Civic Centre in Lagos, to address the challenges women face when they

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encounter delays in their hearts’ desires, and also, how to look up to God to meet their needs.

Archbishop (Dr.) Margaret Benson Idahosa, CWFI PresidentGeneral and Archbishop of the Church of God Mission International, is the guest speaker.

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012 — 41

42 — Vanguard,

WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012

Group offers access to free healthcare for indigent women ...Unveils rural help maternity project in Lagos

BY CHIOMA OBINNA & GABRIEL OLAWALE OOPS I’m pregnant, 37 years- old Mrs. Angelina Okoh retorted. It was seven years after she married her heartthrob, Ogu Okoh, who was filled

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with joy at the news. But few months after, the worst happened. Ogu lost his shop and everything in it to a fire. Hardship set in.

Ogu could no longer support his pregnant wife.

The couple was thrown out of their rented apartment and the journey back to the village started.

In the village, Angelina decided to patronise one a traditional birth attendant, but almost lost her life in the process.

She developed complications during labour and only the quick intervention of a skilled birth attendant at a General Hospital in the area, saved her from

becoming one of the 52, 000 Nigerian women who die of pregnancy related problems annually.

Today, reports show that every day, 145 women die in Nigeria giving birth to a child.

In recognition of the role of poverty in fueling maternal deaths in the

• Executive Director, Rural Help Maternity Project, Dr. Uchendu Alaefula making a presentation to one of the beneficiaries of the project in Lagos last week. country, a non g o v e r n m e n t a l organization, Dr. Nothing dey Happen, initiated a save live today programme tagged, “Rural Help Maternity Project.”

Unveiling the project in

Lagos, the Executive Director of the programme, Dr. Uchendu Alaefula who decried the incidences of maternal mortality in the country regretted that maternal mortality rate has not improved in Nigeria in the last decade.

COMMON SEXUAL PROBLEMS AND THEIR NOVELTY BASED SOLUTIONS (ADVERTORIAL)

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LEASE I need information about a libido booster. I have a girl who always shows affection towards me but doesn’t show interest in sex inspite of me trying. She passed the night with me several times and still resisted all my moves for sex. Which one will be best to use on her without her knowing – Samuel Dear Samuel, sex between two adults must be consensual. That means that both parties must want sex before it takes place. To drug a woman to have sex with you is WRONG. You cannot do that. If this female friend of yours does not want to have sex with you, don’t force it. This is what you should do.

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It will enable you last longer. Take care – Uche I enjoy your articles a lot. Please educate me on how penis enlargement works – Osita Dear Osita, the penis is made up of spongy tissues known as the corpus carvenosa and corpus spongiosum.

When these tissues are filled with blood, you get your erection. What penis enlargement creams, supplements and devices do is that they expand the above mentioned tissues so they can contain more blood. The more blood they can contain, the bigger the penis. That is how penis enlargement works – Uche I just want to thank you so much. My erections have improved since I started taking Cockstar supplement and my wife is very happy too. We have not had great sex life in three years – Daniel.

You are welcome – Uche Please I suffer from low libido and arousal. When my husband touches me, I feel nothing. What can I do?

Joyce Dear Joyce, you need a libido boosting supplement, an orgasm gel and a vaginal pump. For the supplement, ask for Max Desire or Libigirl. For orgasm gel, get Liquid Sex orgasm Gel or Horny Honey Arousal Gel. And for the Pump, ask for the Vibrating Vaginal Pump. It is new and works like magic when you pump to make you very aroused and sensitive to stimulation too - Uche That’s it for today. Adults in need of these treatments/ novelties can call 08191978308 or 08051924159 or any other number here to order or they can order online at www.zeevirtualmedia.com. Zee Virtual Media delivers to you wherever you are in Nigeria. For enquiries, send your emails to custserv@zeevirtualmedia.com - Uche Edochie, MD, Zee Virtual Media..

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012 — 43

Britain, France others recall envoys from Syria

BY VERA SAMUEL ANYAGAFU & PRISCA SAM-DURU, with Agency Report

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LOBAL pressure on Syria mounted yesterday as Arab and Europeans countries recalled their envoys in Damascus.

Major Western powers especially the United States, France, the UK, Germany, Italy, Spain, Canada, Australia, the Netherlands and Switzerland all taken by recalling their envoys or expelling senior Syrian diplomats following the killing of 108 people in the Houla region of Syria last week.

UN-Arab League envoy

Kofi Annan said, after talks with President Bashar alAssad, Syria was at a “tipping point”. Mr Annan said he had asked Mr Assad to take “bold steps” to see that his peace plan was implemented. The Syrian government has denied responsibility for killings in a string of villages that left more than 4,000 people dead, blaming the killings on “hundreds of heavily armed gunmen” who also attacked soldiers in the area.

The reaction came as the British Foreign Secretary William Hague has

expressed deep concern on the type of tyranny that the people of Syria have been experiencing ever since the outbreak of political crisis in the country.

The assault on the central area of Houla was one of the bloodiest single events in Syria’s 15-month-old uprising, and gruesome images of dozens of children killed in the attacks prompted a wave of international outrage. And the U.N. said 32 children under the age of 10 were among the dead and issued a statement appearing to hold the

Nigerians in foreign jails cry against neglect

By VERA SAMUEL ANYAGAFU & PRISCA SAM-DURU

Amb. Olugbenga Ashiru

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HOUSANDS of Ni gerians in foreign prisons have continued to cry out for assistance even as Federal government has washed off its hands on their cases.

From the jail houses of China, Indonesia and other far East Asian countries, jailed Nigerians are insisting that cases of miscarriage of justice against them must not be allowed to go unattended to by their home country which says the cardinal plant of its foreign policy is citizens diplomacy.

According to a recent report, China has in its prison custody, over 1,000 Nigerians who are in for various offenses sources said, “they are being detained without being given the opportunity for fair hearing, but for mere reason

that they are seen as beingof erroneously considering them of no consequence to Nigeria.

Describing China as a country whose ideology does not have room for respect for human rights, some Nigerians living in China and those who transact business with some Chinese companies in the Asian country have decried the development and averred that detaining people without giving them the benefit of fair trial is a crime against human rights, no matter the height of the offense.

Although the official Chinese line is that those who were arrested and thrown into prison were drug trafficker, there are many Nigerians who are being detained for over staying their visas. And rather than detain and may be thereafter, deport them to Nigeria, they are left to wallow in pain and rejection in jail. Others are said to have difficulties as a result of domestic issues with Chinese women. The Chinese policy of one child per family is strictly enforced and

some businessmen or people who want to find their ways into the Chinese system are known to end up with having love affairs that eventually landed them in trouble. The jilted Chinese women rather than settle their differences with their estranged lovers, hand them over to the police on allegations of being drug pushers or other offenders of the law because China as a communist country, has little regard for fundamental human rights.

Syrian regime responsible.

Persistent violence has cast doubt about the future of international efforts to halt 14 months of bloodshed between the regime and forces fighting against it.

The U.N. Security Council convened an emergency session for late Sunday to discuss the killing. Diplomats said

Russia blocked a strong statement condemning the killing, insisting on a briefing from the head of the observer mission first.

William Hague who was speaking ahead of his forth coming visit to Moscow, noted that “It is a familiar tactic of the Assad regime to blame others for what is happening in their coun-

Egypt’s top candidates seek wider support HE two surviving candidates in Egypt’s presidential election appealed Saturday for support from voters who rejected them as polarizing extremists in the first round even as they faced a new challenge from the third runner-up who contested the preliminary results.

Hosni Mubarak’s last prime minister, Ahmed Shafiq, vowed he won’t revive the old authoritarian regime as he sought to cast off his image as an antirevolution figure, while the Muslim Brotherhood’s candidate, Mohammed Morsi, reached out to those fearful of hardline Islamic rule and the rise of a religious state.

Many votes are up for grabs, but the two candidates will have a

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•Ahmed Shafiq tough battle wooing the middle ground voters amid calls from activists for a boycott of the divisive vote.

Adding to the uncertainty, Hamdeen Sabahi called for a partial vote recount, citing violations that he claimed could change the outcome, a prospect that may further

Vatican leaks worries Pope HE Vatican’s investigation into the source of leaked documents has yielded its first target with the arrest of the pope’s butler, but the investigation is continuing into a scandal that has embarrassed the Holy See by revealing evidence of internal power struggles, intrigue and corruption in the highest levels of the Catholic Church

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try, to try to get out of responsibility for the scale of death and destruction.

We are absolutely sickened in the British Government and across the international community by what we’ve seen over the last couple of days, in particular on deaths of more than a hundred unarmed men, women and children.

Of course they are part of twelve thousand, perhaps fifteen thousand deaths in Syria over the last year."

governance.

The detention of butler Paolo Gabriele, one of the few members of the papal household, capped one of the most convulsive weeks in recent Vatican history and threw the Holy See into chaos as it enters a critical phase in its efforts to show the world it’s serious about complying with international norms on financial transparency.

The tumult began with the publication last weekend of a book of leaked Vatican documents including correspondence, notes and memos to the pope and his private secretary.

•Mohammed Morsi enflame an already explosive race. Sabahi, a socialist and a champion of the poor, came in third by a margin of some 700,000 votes, leaving him out of the next round to be held on June 16-17.

Many Egyptians were dismayed by the early results, which opened a contest that looked like a throwback to Mubarak’s era — a rivalry between a military-rooted strongman promising a firm hand to ensure stability and Islamists who were repressed under the old regime but have become the most powerful political force in post-revolutionary Egypt.

44 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012 — 45

46— VANGUARD,

WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012

She said my husband was a lousy lay!

Dear Bunmi, I’M 23 and since I was six I’ve been regularly hit by my father. He’s made me feel worthless and comments on how fat and ugly I am, although I’m no longer overweight. I have no self-confidence and don’t trust men. All my relationships with men have failed. It didn’t help that I never told any of them about my home life. I’ve started seeing a man who I feel totally relaxed with. I’ve told him about my dad and he’s very understanding. But I’m scared he might change his mind and hurt me.

I left home towards the end of last year but unfortunately, I soon had to move back home. I can’t afford to move out again for a while and this is making me very depressed. I’m still scared of my father. He makes me feel such a failure. I haven’t told my friends about him and I have to lie to my work colleagues about how I get cuts and bruises.

I don’t want to leave my mum and brothers

alone with him or would have left to live anywhere no matter how squalid. Although he’s never hit them, he shouts at them and they’re all afraid of him.

I just want to be happy and I need this new relationship to work. My boyfriend is the first man I’ve trusted and I love him. Please help me.

Ego, By e-mail Dear Ego, You need to realize that becoming a confident young woman who’s

unafraid of men will take time. The hurt you’ve suffered from this brute of a father runs deep and your transformation into an independent and self-respecting adult will not be easy. Leaving home, then feeling forced to return, has increased your sense of vulnerability., You’re pinning high hopes on a new relationship but your happiness does not depend on this boyfriend or any man or woman. You need to rely on yourself to survive.

Be more open about your situation with

My girlfriends often think I’ll be unfaithful Dear Bunmi, I’M a nice, intelligent, attractive guy with a well-paid job. I’m in my late 20s and would love to get married but my girlfriends have all dumped me after accusing me of having a roving eye. I don’t know where they got the idea from as I’ve tried to be faithful with women and have always assured

them I’m the faithful type. Am I doing anything wrong to make these women run a mile?

Ben, By e-mail Dear Ben, Do you tend to choose women who are prone to jealousy? As a rule, jealousy is a sign of low self-esteem. This type of women won’t believe

My sister is using me as a nanny

Dear Laura, You made a promise to your sister when she was vulnerable -so you need to stand by that.

You can’t simply ignore that sort of commitment

when it suits you. That said, you sister should understand that your new relationship means you need to put more energy in that direction.

Explain this to her and negotiate so that she gets regular care for her kids as you’re not pre-

,

Dear Bunmi, SOME years ago, my sister’s husband left her with three children to move in with his mistress. She was so devastated that I promised I’d help by giving her a lot of support. But now I have a new man who I’m very interested in, yet sister still expects me to be constantly at her beck and call. I need my life back, but how can I tell her?

Laura By e-mail

friends and colleagues who care for you - you’ll be surprised at how sympathetic they could be. You’ve been intimidated by your father’s oppressive and bullying behavior and it's about time you stood up to him. Focus on leaving home for good and find friends to share living accommodation with. In spite of your cruel childhood, you can achieve everything you want.

When you are at last free and in control of your life, far greater happiness awaits you.

Good luck.

pared to give up every evening or weekend.

Her neighbours could help and there are quite a number of daycare centres. lf you sit down and talk this through with her, you’ll both be able to arrive at an amicable position.

You made a promise to your sister when she was vulnerable so you need to stand by that; you can’t simply ignore that sort of commitment when it suits you

,

they deserve to keep you as a partner, so they think they’re losing you to a rival. You could also have reinforced their low opinions of themselves by not assuring them of your sincerity.

So, next time you're with an interesting woman, listen to her closely and encourage her to show more of her deeper self.

If you make a woman feel good enough about herself to believe she’s entitled to the love of a great guy, she’ll have faith in your fidelity.

If you don’t want all this hassle, it is best to avoid the jealous type altogether. There is the possibility that without being fully aware that you’re doing it, you ogle other women when you're out with your girlfriends.

You may think that giving the eye to every passing female is no more than an innocent male reflex, but a lot of women complain about it among themselves and see it as an affront.

Finally, instead of telling your women how faithful you could be, don’t make infidelity an issue or they may suspect a cover-up. Fidelity doesn’t need discussing. Just prove it by being faithful.

Dear Stephanie, You really have to take your husband’s affair

,

My dad has ruined my life by his violence

Dear Bunmi, I RECENTLY discovered through a mutual friend that my so-called best friend and my husband had an affair. When I confronted my husband about it, he denied it. When I told him of the facts at my disposal, he said it only happened once and she didn’t mean anything to him.

But when I confronted my friend, what she told me was even worse. She said my husband was rubbish between the sheets and I would be better off getting myself a real man! I can’t believe the brazenness of this my so-called friend.

I’m so upset Stephanie, By e-mail

seriously. Even though he slept with your socalled best friend once, it’s still a very clear sign that something is not right between you two.

Don’t panic. It doesn’t mean your relationship is ruined or over.

But it does mean that you and your husband need to start working at your love immediately; or you risk him falling into temptation again.

As for your best friend, I don’t think you should take her comments seriously. I bet she was feeling rejected by your husband and was resentful that you have him and she doesn’t. She said what she did in order to slag him off and get revenge on you not because it was necessarily true. So forget this cruel woman’s comments and your friendship with her.

As for your best friend, I don’t think you should take her comments seriously; I bet she was feeling rejected by your husband and was resentful that you have him and she doesn’t

,

Was our marriage a mistake?

Dear Bunmi, MY boyfriend and I were together for three years before we agreed to yet married.

But since we came back from our honeymoon, our relationship has got worse. We argue all the time and I’m starting to worry. I don’t love him any more. Did we make a horrible mistake by getting married?

Sinmi By e-mail Dear Sinmi, All too often, the commitment of marriage means that things change between couples. It usually gives you

more security, reassurance and a deeper bond.

But such a big step can also make you feel trapped and worried the marriage will fail. That can make you both edgy - the ‘post honeymoon' row is a classic.

So relax. Almost certainly you’re both fine and just need to get used to being married. Talk with your married friends and tap into solutions they have for keeping love and marriage alive. With time you’ll get it right but you need to have a chat with your husband - he might be more help than you think!

Share your problems and release your burden.

Write now to Dear Bunmi, Vanguard Newspapers, P.M.B 1007, Apapa, Lagos or bunmsof@yahoo.co.uk

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012 — 47

48 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012 — 49

50—Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012

MIDWEEK SERMON

Akinde tasks leaders on righteousness

with SAMEYOBOKA sameyoboka@yahoo.com

20,000 Christians flee Maiduguri

By SAM EYOBOKA HRISTIAN Association of Nigeria, CAN, has alleged that over 1,000 Christians were killed in Maiduguri, Borno State, between March and May 23, just as 20,000 others have fled the town.

At the end of a CAN National Executive Council meeting in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, National President of CAN, Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, told reporters that figures presented at the meeting showed that in March 300 deaths were recorded but the figure rose to 500 by April and as at May 23, it has hit over 1,000 with more numbers of injured Christians.

The CAN president also acknowledged report that over 20,000 Christians have fled Maiduguri to neighbouring states and countries like Niger, Chad and Cameroun noting that no fewer than 30 churches have been closed in Maiduguri, even as the militant Islamic sect members have changed tactics to house-to-house search for those to strangulate and slaughter.

The group observed that the "sporadic shootings, incessant killings of Christians, the bombings of churches, silent killings/slaughter-

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Land of Truth crusade LAND of Truth Deliverance Ministries holds a programme tagged “Recover all” from today to Friday at 4, Debo Street, Sari Iganmu, Lagos.

General overseer of the church, Rev. Helen Sam told journalists that the programme will be seasoned with anointed men of God like Rev. Israel Malachi Orji and a host of others who will also assist in recovering all the lost fishes.

*Oritsejafor ing and the silent disposals of the corpses of those killed have continued," noting that, "contrary to the orchestrated reasons of poverty and injustice by some Muslim leaders, Boko Haram has been masterminding the series of bomb and gun attacks which are primarily targeted at Christians in its bid to exterminate all forms of western education and enthrone the Islamic law of Sharia as the universal law in Nigeria."

The Council observed that the total number of people killed by the sect is far more than reported in the media and that the sequence of fatal attacks and silent killings presents a grim picture of the trauma of Christians in the North.

Faced with the grim state of insecurity, the CAN Council, therefore, urged both government and security agencies to do more in order to contain the senseless and mindless killings and that government should seriously consider the Boko Haram sect as a terrorist group, just as it urges government to mobilize human and financial resources in its fight against the sect.

CAN also enjoined Christians to

Peace Okonkwo turns 60 IFE of the presiding bishop of The Re deemed Evangelical Mission (TREM) and resident pastor of the Headquarters Church, Dr. Peace Okonkwo will be 60 on June 10.

As part of activities marking the birthday celebration, about 10,000 women from different parts of the country, especially rural dwellers, are to benefit from a free cervical screening exercise which will be formally inaugurated through a PEACE Concert Programme scheduled for June 3, 2012 at Expo Hall of Eko Hotel and Suites.

Other activities include a medical funfair/free cervical cancer screening on June 9, and a special thanksgiving service on June 10, at the TREM headquarters, Gbagada Express-way, Anthony Oke, Lagos.

Mrs. Okonkwo was born on June 10, 1952. She gave her life to Christ in 1974 at a Scripture Union fellowship and was ordained into the full time ministry on August 15, 1982. She reflects a contagious joy and peace that only

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*Dr. Peace Okonkwo comes from God. Her passion is giving hope to women and children around the world.

Standing behind the scene giving supportive role to her husband has brought her into the limelight; truly her gift made a way for her and brought her before kings. Her love, care and concern particularly for women and children sent her to her knees to seek God’s face on how to reach these two groups. In 1998, this desire gave birth to the International Women Prayer Conference, a monthly meeting for women.

remain united at these diffic-ult times and speak with one voice, stressing the need for them to continue fervently in prayers and fasting and that all the blocs in CAN must pray on June 16, 2012 for our dear country, Nigeria.

On the hydra-headed monster called corruption, CAN lamented that virtually all sectors of the nation’s economy are riddl-ed with cases of corruption and that government's manage-ment of the fight against cor-ruption is still cosmetic. The Christian leaders, therefore, called on government "not to behave like a man who stepped into a pitch dark room, straining his eyes to catch a reflection of the smile on his face in a mirror," adding: "It should switch on the light in the room or step out into the light."

LAGOS Mainland Anglican bishop, Rt. Rev. Adebayo Akinde has called on political leaders, ministers of God and the mass-es of the country to embrace righteousness, arguing that only righteousness can exalt the country, reports OLAYINKA LATONA. Speaking at the formal opening of 3rd session of the 2nd synod of the Lagos Mainland diocese of Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) with a theme “The peace of God”, Bishop Akinde said the will of God is for man to be at peace but man cannot experience such peace where unrighteousness abound.

“There cannot be peace where there is unrighteousness; it is a clear indication that righteousness is disappearing more and more. The level of immorality at all levels including the Church of God, government and in the society generally has assumed frightened dimension," he stated.

According to him; “we are using this opportunity to call on all Nigerians to serious pragmatic self evaluation where we should ask ourselves the unrighteous thoughts and deeds we have done in the past and repent, because without righteousness there will be no progress."

RCCG feeds 100,000 at Excel 2012 HE Apapa Family of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, RCCG, has concluded plans to host its fifth edition of the annual EXCEL programme on Sunday at the Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos, where the General Overseer of the church, Pastor Enoch Adeboye is expected to preach on 'Change Catalyst'.

Last year, the church fed 50,000 persons as part of its corporate social responsibility, but accord-ing to the pastor-in-charge Lagos Province 35, Pastor Remi Morgan, this year the church has perfected plan to raise the stakes by feeding some 100,000 persons.

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Sacked Lagos Doctors: Iloh urges Jonathan to intervene

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S the face-off between the Lagos State government and medical doctors lingers, General Overseer of Soul Winning Chapel, Dr. Moses Iloh has condemned the action and urged President Goodluck Jonathan to intervene in the interest of Nigerians. While urging the president not to treat the matter with kid gloves, the cleric called on the sacked doctors to seek employ-ment elsewhere, reports B O S E ADELAJA. Speaking in Lagos, the cleric urged the Lagos government to shun all forms of criticism and intimidation, arguing that the doctors should be punished for negligence of duty; “their sack was a step in the right direct-ion.”

Iloh, who called on the state government to stand by its words, also said, "the doctors overflogged their demand; they have no regard for the lives of Lagosians and this has thrown many homes into mourning.

They have forgotten that the medical profession is a human-itarian one. I expected them to have voluntarily resigned if they were unsatisfied with the

code of conduct,” he noted.

"The face-off has sent many Lagosians to their early grave and the doctors will not go unpunished,” he said, noting “Lagos State is the heart beat of Nigeria and the blood of those who died as a result of the strike will be required from the doctors. I have spoken to some of these doctors

and their grouse was that they are being overworked as the state govern-ment is constructing additional hospitals without recruiting more doctors.

"This shows that the government wants its citizens to benefit from its health programmes but the doctors are not willing to support the idea."

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012 — 51

52—Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012

Itchy sensation on sex organ, anus Dear doctor,

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OCTOR, I have itchy sensation on the penis and anus. What is the problem?

Etop, Akwa Ibom State Answer,

IT is most likely fungal in origin.

Take nystatin tablets three times a day for 10 days.

I have a 40mm fibroid, can I conceive?

Dear doctor, OCTOR,

Answer THIS should not be a problem at all. You can conceive all things being equal

I was diagnosed to have fibroid. The size of which is 40mm by 35mm. Can there be any problem to conceive?

Joke, Ibadan

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Pain each time I have sex

Will being a virgin at 23 cause problem in marriage?

Dear doctor,

D

OCTOR, I am 23 years of age and a virgin. My friends told me I am going to have problem when I get married. Is it true?

Jane, Delta Answer WHAT kind of problem are they talking about? Is it sexual or reproductive?

Well, I advise you keep your virginity if you can. No problem is expected at all.

Preventing pregnancy after 4 rounds of unprotected intercourse

D

OCTOR, I had unprotected sex with my husband four times.

How can I prevent pregnancy?

Juliana, Edo Answer I ADVISE you go on a regular contraceptive to prevent unwanted pregnancy. See your family doctor.

Worried about suspected pregnancy, fibroid Dear doctor,

D

OCTOR, I have not seen my menses for the past six months.

I am 35 years old. I have seen a doctor who said is not pregnancy. I did scan and it said fibroid, but within me I am feeling that I am pregnant.

What do you advice?

Kate, Onitsha Answer IF you are actually pregnant and is up to six months, you should see your abdomen distended. Fibroid is not the cause of your not seen your menses. I think you should go ahead and do hormonal profile in a good laboratory outfit.

Dear doctor,

D

Dear doctor,

D

OCTOR, I am a girl of 24. I started having sex a year ago. Each time I have sex I feel pain in the inner wall of my vagina. I don’t even enjoy sex anymore. I don’t reach orgasm. After sex, I also feel pain while urinating.

We have seen different doctors but no way. What could be the problem?

Grace, Akure Answer

THERE is no way you can climax under a painful situation. It is not possible.

Sex has to be painless and sweet before you can climax. Also your difficulty in urinating has to do with the painful act you just passed through since the opening is closely related.

This is a way out. There should be extensive romancing prior to penetration, apply K Y Jelly to the vagina. This lubricant will enhance and facilitate penetration and thrusting. I think you should be alright trying this method.

Is not too early to have it with him?

Dear doctor, OCTOR, I am a girl of 18 years dating a guy of 23 years. We started dating two weeks ago. Each time I visit him, he likes touching my sensitive parts. When I tell him to stop, he will try to convince me that such a normal thing must happen. Is it not too early?

Justina, Owerri

D

Answer

THE reason I picked interest in this question is because of your age. At 18, dating a guy means early sexual exposure, and it also means that you are more likely to date more men.

These two conditions are predisposing factors to cancer of the cervix. I think you should be thinking more about your future.

My test result shows E.coli OCTOR, I am 34. I did urine test and the result shows that I have e.coli. What does it mean and what can I do?

Dapo, Abuja Answer, IT only means that you have urinary tract infection.

What to do is simple. Just use the most sensitive drug of choice as it is written in the result. Use it for 10 days please.

At 18, dating a guy means early sexual exposure and it also means that you are more likely to date more men

Is it normal to menstruate for 2 days?

Dear Doctor,

D

OCTOR, is it normal for a lady to menstru ate for just two days? If it is normal, what steps does one need to follow because I want to get pregnant?

Nkechi, Aba

Concern over series of miscarriages

Dear doctor, OCTOR, my wife has four miscarriages in five months. Now she is a month pregnant, how do I care for it?

Biodun, Abeokuta Answer DOES t h a t means she was getting pregnant e v e r y month.

I find it difficult to believe.

Well, if she is pregnant now, be careful and see a gynaecologist.

D

Answer THE normal bleeding period is one to eight days, but with an average of three to five days. If you are having two days, is still normal. To get pregnant you and your husband can undergo some fertility tests

Worry over limited sperm quantity Dear Doctor,

D

OCTOR, my girlfriend com plained that I have limited sperm quantity. What can be done to abate it?

Joseph, Lagos Answer PLEASE, kindly explain further what this means.

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012 — 53

54 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012

Lawal doubtful for Namibia clash

NSC to sponsor 5 teenagers to Olympics Continues from B/P

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TLETICO Belaeres midfielder, Raheem Lawal, might miss out of the Super Eagles versus Brave Warriors of Namibia World Cup qualifier on Sunday, following a battle for visa regularization in Spain.

Lawal, was exquisite in the midfield when the Super Eagles played Peru in a friendly last week and was thought to be in Stephen Keshi’s plan for Sunday’s duel.

Super Eagles Scribe, Dayo Enebi Achor, said he has not relented in ensuring that the player ’s papers are regularized. “We are still expecting him anytime from now and we will not relent until he arrives the country to join his colleagues in camp”, he said.

•Sharapova

Sharapova marches on at French Open ARIA Sharapova took just 48 minutes to book her place in the second round of the French Open, beating Romania’s Alexandra Cadantu 6-0 6-0.The world No.2 is seeking to complete a career slam with victory at Roland Garros — the only major championship she is yet to win.

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even as 5 outstanding athletes at the last national sports festival are to be sponsored to the London 2012 olympics games.

According to the Director of the National sports commission Dr Patrick Ekeji, ‘The National Sports commission is determined to effect the bottom’s up approach to sports development. We are committed to re-awakening nigeria’s great sports potentials through grassroots development. We are therefore encouraging the states and all local government councils to support NSC’s transformation agenda through the discovery and nurturing of young, budding talents. We cannot expect genuine development without soliciting and mobilizing the support of all stakeholders”.

Ekeji insists that ‘ Nigeria is a giant in sports,

but it can only attain full potentials if we create an enabling environment for sports to thrive. We are encouraging all states, from the local government to identify

Sheriff, Mandiba pick Gulder 5-Aside ticket HERIFF FC and Mandiba FC of Lagos are the 2012 representatives of the South West Zone of the Gulder Five-A-Side finals.

Though both sides were confirmed as the flag bearers of the zone after winning their semi final matches, they had to square up against each other at the Dipo Dina Staduim, Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, to determine who will be crowned overall winner of the zone.

After a keenly contested final match, Sheriff FC, led by their talismanic striker and the highest goal scorer of last year ’s event, Nasiru Kabiru, defeated

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Mum tells RVP to remain in Arsenal Continues from B/P that’s a great incentive to stay. Arsenal are a fantastic club.

“They have no debts and Robin is idolised there.”

Spanish giants Barcelona and Italian champions Juventus also want to sign Arsenal’s double Footballer of the Year.

RVP opened negotiations with Arsene Wenger and chief executive Ivan Gazidis in London last week.

their areas of strength and develop in that direction. As the supervising ministry, we not only provide facilities, but monitor the nurturing of discovered athletes.

The Gunners are offering him a new £130,000a-week deal, plus a £5million re-signing bonus to enhance his position as the club’s highest-paid player.

Van Persie’s wife Bouchra added: “Arsenal showed faith in Robin when he was going through a lean time, so we should not repay them by thinking about other clubs.

“Our home life and our children are happy in London.”

Mandiba FC 1-0.

The event attracted a large number of supporters, spectators and dignitaries from around the zone including ex International, Tajudeen Disu, who praised Gulder for its support of grass-roots football.

Namibia hit Nigeria tomorrow Continues from B/P Namibia Football Association (NFA) will also arrive Lagos the same day aboard a South African Airways flight from Johannesburg.

The Brave Warriors, who have been training in Germany and played a 0-0 draw with Mozambique in a friendly in Germany on Saturday, take on the Super Eagles in a 2014 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign, African Series Day One at the U. J. Esuene Sports Stadium, Calabar, from 4pm on Sunday.

Peru lessons will help us beat Namibia Continues from B/P

Eagles pros struggle with Calabar heat Continues from B/P is to allow the players time to rest after two days of hectic session.

The team would not however go without a task on Wednesday as coach Stephen Keshi has handed the team psychologist Robinson Okosun the day to make his presentation ahead of the Sunday’s clash. ”The players already understand the task ahead but there is a

need to make them understand the expectations of Nigerians plus the need to build confidence on every Nigerian out there,” Okosun said ”After watching the team in three separate sessions I must confess that I am impressed with the response level but a little psychological work needs to be done to prepare their minds for Sunday.”

ing in Akure or Abeokuta how many fans go to watch them?

It couldn’t have been so if we had a very vibrant league.

Our players would have been used to big stages. If we play more of such matches the players will be different, they will develop faster.

I think that we are on the right track and with time we will be strong.

Some of the mistakes we made are being corrected and from the way training is going we will make Nigerians happy on Sunday.”

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012 — 55

VANGUARD, WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2012

Peru lessons will help us beat Namibia — Keshi

Balotelli: I’m a genius — P.30

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FTER yesterday ’s training session in Calabar, Stephen Keshi simply said this: “We are fine and ready for the match. I think that we have the team to make Nigerians happy.”

Nigeria will play Namibia on Sunday in a 2014 World Cup qualifier, travel to Malawi for another World Cup qualifier and return to Calabar for a Nations Cup match against Rwanda. Only last week, Eagles lost 1-0 to Peru in an international friendly. Keshi said yes- CContinues on page 54 terday that the match in

NSC to sponsor 5 teenagers to Olympics HE National Sports commission,NSC is set to give a new vista to sports development in all states of the country,

T

CContinues on page 54

Mum tells RVP to remain in Arsenal OBIN VAN PERSIE has been advised to stay at Arsenal — by his MUM. Manchester City lead the chase for the Gunners skipper.

But mother Jose said: “Arsenal love him and CContinues on page 54

R

TODAY'S

Peru was a big lesson to him and the players and that what they learnt would be useful as they face Namibia in Calabar and subsequent matches.

“Peru was the biggest stage the players had seen. The atmosphere overwhelmed them in the first half. The crowd, the noise and everything was intimidating to them because they were not used to such atmosphere. How many people watch league matches in Nigeria?

“When Heartland are playing in Owerri or Warri Wolves are play

BY ONOCHIE ANIBEZE

•Mario Balotelli

Eagles pros struggle with Calabar heat N IGERIA goalkeep er trainer Ike Shorumu has said hat the foreign-based pros have struggled with the heat in Calabar in training. ”I noticed that the players struggled on the first and second day of training with the weath-

PUZZLES

er. You know most of them are coming from a very cold region to the heat in Calabar. So it was expected. But right now they have been able to adjust,” he told MTNFootball.com Otherwise, the former international goalkeep-

YESTERDAY'S

er said they have been impressed with the commitment of the players ahead of Sunday’s 2014 World Cup qualifier against Namibia.

“We are so far impressed with their response to the training sessions and it gives us

a lot of confidence ahead of the game against Namibia,” Shorunmu disclosed.

The Eagles will observe Wednesday as a rest day.

The move according to top officials of the team

•Keshi

Namibia hit Nigeria tomorrow 25-man delegation of Namibia will arrive in Lagos on Thursday evening aboard a Lufthansa Airline flight from Frankfurt, Germany.

Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) officials confirmed yesterday that the delegation of 25 will be made up of players, technical crew and backroom staff.

A separate delegation of three officials of the

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CContinues on page 54 CContinues on page 54

QUICK CROSSWORD

ANSWERS

ACROSS 1 Dance (5) 5 Constraint (6) 8 Encounter (5) 10 Nearer (6) 11 Frank (4) 14 Courteous (6) 15 Austere (7) 18 Enclosure (3) 19 Weep (3) 21 Decorate (4) 23 Measure (5) 24 Cream (4) 27 Lair (3) 29 Beverage (3) 31 Guard (7) 32 Indeed (6) 34 Mirth (4) 35 Pact (6) 38 Longed (5) 39 Dread (6) 40 Coin (5)

DOWN 2 Boring-tool (3) 3 Cafe (6) 4 Individual (3) 5 Fall (5) 6 Staggered (6) 7 Stripe (6) 9 Folded (7) 12 Burst (3) 13 Number (4) 16 Staff (4) 17 Famous (5) 20 Under (7) 22 Fashionable (4) 24 Deprived (6) 25 Deer (4) 26 Cashier (6) 28 Ebb (6) 30 Beer (3) 31 Annum (4) 36 Material (3) 37 Brown (3)

YESTERDAY'S SOLUTIONS ACROSS: 1, Ordeal 5, Scan 8, Torch 9, Tot 10, Soon 11, Raid 12, Offer 13, Recess 16, Shed 18, Edam 20, New 22, Owe 23, Din 24, Wide 25, Rent 28, Target 30, Elder 32, Heat 33, Nick 34, Apt 35, Sheep 36, Prey 37, Delete.

How to Play Sudoku

THE VIGILANTE

DOWN: 1, Outcry 2, Detected 3, Assess 4, Confident 5, Screwed 6, Char 7, Nude 8, Too 14, Shortened 15, Wan 17, Ewe 19, Disgrace 20, Nip 21, Wealthy 26, Tackle 27, Statue 29, Whip 30, Ease 31, Rip

e-mail: rowolove@yahoo.co.uk

Place a number (1-9) in each blank cell. (No line can have two of the same number).

Each row (nine lines from left to right), column, (also nine lines from top to bottom) and 3 X 3 block within a bold block (nine blocks) contains number from 1 through 9. This means that no number can appear twice in any block, column or row.

No mathematics is involved – no adding, subtraction, division or multiplication, just plain logic and your imagination.

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